JULY 2014 Franschhoek se rugby museum
More Foundation Stones
Q&A with Alastair Wood
Young Lupini impresses in carting
Bladsy 2
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Infrastructure upgrades – expect more digging! Franschhoek’s crumbling infrastructure has been receiving much needed attention from Stellenbosch Municipality recently. Several streets in the village were resurfaced earlier this year, followed by another batch, centred on the CBD, following during late May. This work, valued at R1.7 million, was undertaken by Amandla GCF that was awarded the main tender for the Municipality’s road rehabilitation programme. According to Johan Fullard (Head: Roads & Stormwater) the focus of the road rehabilitation programme will shift to Groendal and Mooiwater during the 2014/2015 financial year. R4 million is expected to be spent on road improvements in this area, which include upgrading gravel roads in Mooiwater to paved asphalt (tar) roads. Replacement of old fibre cement water pipes in much of the village has been ongoing for months. This work is expected to continue until the end of August 2014. Replacing the old pipes will reduce the incidence of burst pipes that occur regularly in Franschhoek. Meanwhile the new multimillion Rand waste water treatment plant at Wemmershoek, that is to serve the entire valley, will be commissioned during October 2014. Once this has happened the existing plant on the bank of the Franschhoek River will be decommissioned. With a wet winter upon us it is easy to forget that during the height of summer parts of Franschhoek
A new water main is being laid in Uitkyk Street
were without water earlier this year as demand outstripped what the infrastructure could supply. The good news in this regard is that a new main water supply line, pump station and reservoir are in the process of being constructed to address Franschhoek’s water needs. According to municipal officials, “If everything goes according to plan the new infrastructure will be in operation by the end of January 2015.”
Sneeuplesier – vir tawwe tienies!
‘n Klein groepie tawwe tienie veldlopers het op Saterdag, 7 Junie, besluit om die sneeu in die Mont Rochelle Natuurreservaat van naderby te gaan bekyk deur die Perdekoproete te gaan draf. Die sneeu was
plek-plek kuitdiepte en het die ongerepte landskap van die reservaat selfs nog meer verruklik gemaak. Op die foto bo is Annie Dower, Rob McKay en Jacoline Haasbroek. Peter Hawthorn het die foto geneem.
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Winter warmth for Dalubuhle Primary School learners
July 2014
Municipality approves restaurant use in Franschhoek’s Urban Transition Zone Although objected to by neighbours in Bagatelle Street and the Franschhoek Valley Conservation Trust (the Trust), the municipality approved the establishment of a 48 seat restaurant in the recently built winery on erf 3266 behind the Franschhoek Bowling Club. The grounds of objection were that such use was inappropriate in what is essentially a low density residential area and that it did not comply
LEFT: Wilmi Engelbrecht (Employee Relations Administrator and CSI coordinator), Feisal Daniels Planning Manager), Nomhle Lucy Mbenenge (Principal at Dalubuhle Primary School), Hillary du Toit (Trading manager) and Nelisa Sinuka (PR and events coordinator) RIGHT: Buddy Bear entertained the little ones
The kids of Dalubuhle Primary School recently received a visit from Ackermans during which warm clothing was donated. Dalubuhle Primary School is a school in great need of assistance and was identified by the Rupert Education Foundation as a school needing support. When Ackermans heard about this initiative and evaluated the needs of the school, they concluded the school deserved additional support. To this end, Ackermans donated 92 grey school jerseys to the grade R students to help ward off the winter chill. “It gives us great delight to help children in need and as part of our CSI initiative we deemed
this a most worthy cause. Our focus is on early childhood development and thus this type of community upliftment is a wonderful fit. It was an honour and privilege to give back to the community and the smiles on their little faces were well worth it,’’ says Feisal Daniels, Planning Manager of Ackermans. Daniels, along with Buying Manager Hillary du Toit, was tasked with the handing over of parcels, with a delighted Nomhle Lucy Mbenenge, the Principal of Dalubuhle Primary, watching over the proceedings. Buddy Bear was also part of the event to keep the little ones thoroughly entertained.
with Franschhoek’s Urban Edge Zone: Land Use Management Policy, the Stellenbosch Municipal Development Framework and the Stellenbosch Integrated Zoning Scheme. Although the Trust appealed timeously to Province, such appeals are no longer allowed after a judgement of the Constitutional Court.
Concourt bars appeals to Province In a judgement delivered on 4 April the Constitutional Court declared unconstitutional section 44 of the Land Use Planning Ordinance 1985 (LUPO) that allowed appeals to Province against planning and land use decisions made by the municipality in terms of LUPO. As a result, all appeals to Province against such decisions made before 4 April will be dealt with
as usual but appeals made after that date will not be processed. The only remedy now available to a party aggrieved by such a decision is a High Court challenge. In terms of legislation replacing LUPO a tribunal will be established by the municipality to hear such appeals but this will not be in place before September.
Province says ‘No’ to Middagkrans Road development
Franschhoek se rugby museum Piet Swanepoel se private versameling rugby aandenkings het gegroei tot dit vandag eintlik ‘n waardevolle museum is. Sy vrou Betsie het maar verlief geneem met die versameling wat aanvanklik klein genoeg was om in die slaapkamer gehuisves te word en toe dit al hoe groter word, die sitkamer begin oorneem het. Volgens Piet het hy op vyf jaar oud sy Piet Swanepoel by ‘n deel van sy rugby-aandenkingsversameling waardevolste besitting Die spoggerigste een is Springbokkaptein Dawie de verloor. Dit was ‘n rugbyspanfoto van sy pa wat Villiers se Engeland wereldspan trui van 1971. Frik weggeraak het toe die familie uit Noord-Rhodesië du Preez het ‘n kamer met Dawie de Villiers gedeel en getrek het. Dis toe dat sy obsessie met rugby fotos per ongeluk die trui ingepak en dit later aan hom, sy begin het. Vandag het hy 120 truie, fotos en ander eertydse weermagkollega geskenk. aandenkings in sy versameling in Franschhoek. Hy sê, “Ek is erg trots op my Springboktruie van Hy sê, “My eerste rugby held was Dr Van Zyl 1906 tot vandag, toe die Springbok wat eers na links Slabbert wat in 1958 in Pietersburg in die Hoër gespring het, na regs gedraai het. Dan is daar ‘n Administrateursfinaal agtste man en later vir WP SARA, SA Federasie, SA Barbarian (Basil de Koning), gespeel het. Ek was in 1966 – 1969 in dieselfde All Black 100 jaar, Wallabie 100 jaar, Springbok 100 skoolspan. Ander bekende Pieties is Adolf Malan, jaar, Natal 100 jaar en Griekwas 125 jaar (Marnus Victor Matfield en Deon Fourie. Ek het 1967 N Tvl Hugo), SA Platteland (Chris Zondag) en al die ou skole,1968 Verre Noord skole, 1972 Elande (Vrystaat Sport Pienaar truie.“ uitnodigingspan) en SA Gekombineerde Magtespan „My seun Josua het saam met Schalk Burger Boland en 1974 Griekwa senter gespeel. Ek het ook ‘n N Tvl Krieket gespeel en tydens die Wêreldbeker in SA het 100 meter o/19 rekord in 1968 gehardloop. Atlete hy vir Sachin Tendulkar geboul wat toe vir hom ‘n teen wie wie ek gehardloop het was o.a. Pierre Spies, Indië trui geskenk het.” Freddie Poggenpoel en Savas Tomaides.” Piet het ook ‘n sagte plekkie vir die vlaggies wat Piet was ‘n kolonel in die SA Weermag en 30 jaar eertyds in die rugbybaas Dr Danie Craven se kantoor by rugby betrokke as speler, Carlton afrigter en gehang het, Dok het vir hom in Stellenbosch klas voorsitter en dit is waar hy die meeste truie versamel gegee toe hy Liggaamsopvoeding gestudeer het. Hy het. Vandag is hy trotste op die WP trui van Carel het die vlaggies by ‘n vriend van Dok gekry. du Plessis, die N Tvl trui van Louis Moolman, Ockie Piet se versameling bly privaat, maar belangstellendes Oosthuizen se Tvl trui, Gus Ferguson se Natal trui, kan hom kontak by chestnutpiet@mweb.co.za om dit Moaner van Heerden se bok trui, Theuns Stofberg te sien. se Vrystaat trui en Allen se NZ Highlanders trui.
View across Farm 1114 on Middagkrans Road
The Provincial Government has refused environmental authorisation in terms of the National Environmental Management Act for development of an 11 room luxury guest house with 19 parking bays and staff cottages on an 8.3 ha site with frontages to Middagkrans and Excelsior Road. (The owner could appeal by 24 June – after deadline for this issue.) In 2011, Vertform CC – a company with a Swiss address and an Ivory Coast national as its sole director – applied for environmental authorisation for a 21 guest room “Country Lodge”. Justin Truter of Werksmans – acting for the Franschhoek Valley Conservation Trust (the Trust) and six other interested and affected parties (I&APs) – sent a 47 page letter objecting. The scheme was then scaled down to an 11 room “Country Guest House” designed by Stefan Antoni – internationally known for his cutting edge architecture. In December 2012, after hearing Professor Todeschini and the Trust arguing against the scheme and Stefan Antoni arguing for it, Heritage Western Cape (HWC) rejected it saying the building type (a small hotel), use (non-agricultural), form (a free standing block) and scale were inappropriate “in this part of the cultural landscape [which] should be a Grade II heritage resource”. In its decision letter, HWC also noted that “the local authority is interpreting their responsibilities in a particularly accommodating way.” Vertform also applied to Stellenbosch Municipality for consent use for the scheme in terms of the
Land Use Planning Ordinance. Curiously, however, HWC’s rejection of the scheme is not mentioned in the Planning Report considered by the Planning and Economic Development Committee when it approved the consent use in August 2013. From enquiries made by the Trust it appears that the municipality was then unaware that notice of the scheme had to be given to HWC in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act and that HWC had rejected it. In its decision letter Province said that it had considered objections made by I&APs and that key factors affecting its decision were that it was not supported by HWC and “the scale and nature of the development being considered inappropriate within the specific cultural landscape.” It was also inappropriate in terms of Province’s guidelines because of its scale, because it did not involve the use of an existing building and because its “impacts on the Franschhoek Valley cannot be mitigated to an acceptable level.” Accordingly, Province “applied a risk averse and cautious approach to this development proposal.” Trust Chairman Don Carroll said “While we are pleased by this decision we are concerned that when it approved the scheme our municipality did not know it had been rejected by HWC and was insufficiently sensitive to its impact on our cultural landscape. We hope that our municipality will now be more sensitive and also apply a risk averse and cautious approach to all proposals for development in the Franschhoek Valley.” Barry Phillips
Email: info@stellenboschblinds.co.za • Fax: 021 886 8516
July 2014
THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
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Viticulturist internationally Pearl Valley scores a birdie for charity recognised for sustainability efforts
La Motte viticulturist Pietie le Roux
La Motte viticulturist and senior farm manager, Pietie le Roux who has been with the Franschhoek property for just shy of 30 years, has received international recognition for the role he plays in the estate’s efforts with sustainable farming. Le Roux was awarded “The Drinks Business Green Personality of the Year 2014” award, by the highly respected international industry publication. La Motte was purchased by industrialist and conservationist, Dr Anton Rupert in 1970 and environmental management remains a priority for the current owner, Hanneli Rupert-Koegelenberg and her husband and CEO of the estate, Hein Koegelenberg. Sharing their commitment, Le Roux takes responsibility for the biological farming and other sustainable initiatives on La Motte, as well as their other farms in Nabot, Elgin, Elim and Paarl. These initiatives include: • The rehabilitation of the sensitive fynbos ecosystems. (The mountain side on La Motte has been registered with Cape Nature as a Voluntary Conservation Site), • An indigenous plants nursery cultivating a total of 44 different indigenous plants, and • The cultivation of several Disa species and the
endangered Blushing Bride (Serruria florida). With his proactive approach to environmental management, Le Roux is part of a committee focusing on formalising biological farming and setting guidelines for audits and the registration of the concept. He is also responsible for rolling out La Motte’s integrated sustainability policy with regards to waste and water management, carbon emission reduction, carbon footprint, etc. as well as the integrated environmental management of the estate. Playing an important role in the local community for such a long time, Pietie is also passionate about the people of La Motte. He is very much involved with the upliftment of the local community and the management of the worker’s village with its a health clinic, crèche and day care centre, as well as a host of training and life orientation programmes. He also heads the regular training of La Motte’ staff members as part of the Wine Industry Ethical Trade Association programme in aspects such as vineyard management, wine making, cellaring, vehicle maintenance, firefighting, health & safety and first aid. www.la-motte.com 021 876 8000
Cellar Restaurant & Terrace
“I’m newly inspired every day. By the view from the restaurant of the valley beyond. By the restaurant itself, with its vaulted ceilings and crystal chandeliers. By the window in the restaurant that gives you a glimpse of the underground cellar and that reminds me of what I’m here to do: To pair amazing food with spectacular wines. So, when I’m
wandering through the kitchen garden, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are never far from my mind. The wines of Haute Cabrière are my muses. They define every culinary decision; they inspire every new idea. The quest is deceptively simple: to make sure that every bite of food you take is made magical by a sip of matching wine.” – Ryan Shell, Head Chef.
Experience the true marriage of food and wine. Address Pass Road (R45), Franschhoek Cape Winelands
Reservations & Enquiries +27 (0)21 876 3688 restaurant@cabriere.co.za
GPS Co-ordinates 33°54'51.63"S : 19° 8'7.90"E
For more information visit www.cabriere.co.za
Pearl Valley, the multi award winning golf course between Franschhoek and Paarl has donated R84000 this year to three local charities in need of community support. Non-profit skills development, income generation and enterprise development organization ENZA in Mbekweni; Franschhoek Resource & Network Coordination Organisation (Franco) and The Rock Foundation in Paarl each received an equal share of the total this year, 40% up from the debut grant made last year to the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. The Captain’s Charity, initiated in 2013 by Peter Richardson, Pearl Valley’s Men’s Golf Captain, is an ongoing fundraising initiative designed for players on the golf course to pay a small fine, should they land a
ball in the water on the iconic 13th hole – a showpiece of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Couse that has breath taking views of the Simonsberg Mountains and Berg River Valley. “When I took on the Captaincy, I wanted to make sure we gave something back to the community in which we live,” says Richardson. What began last year as a fine payable on 13th hole misses has evolved to a charity day auction and a few smaller activities. In addition to this, Pearl Valley pledged to match all funds raised by the charity. “Pearl Valley is honoured to support the Captain’s Charity, we realise the importance of giving back and investing in our local community and the charity provides us with the opportunity to do just that,” says Pearl Valley’s General Manager, Gawie Marx.
Lavande: Brashville drops appeal
London visit
In the June Tatler it was reported that Brashville intended to appeal to the Constitutional Court against the Court of Appeal’s judgement upholding that of the Cape Town High Court setting aside Stellenbosch Municipality’s decisions authorising the building of six guest cottages in the agricultural zone of Lavande de Franschhoek. Brashville’s attorneys have now said their client will not do so. They “believe that it would be much quicker and cost-effective to have the matter reconsidered within the municipal sphere” as “the Municipality can only make the same finding as it did before” (i.e. require payment of a contravention levy to rezone the area and legalise the building of the six cottages). The neighbouring owners have been advised that as Province refused Brashville’s application to rezone and therefore decided that the six cottages lacked “desirability” in terms of the Land Use Planning Ordinance, “a contravention levy should not be used to circumvent that determination”. Barry Phillips
Franschhoek Cellar winemaker Richard Duckitt attended the London Wine Affair from 2-4 June
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July 2014
presented in association with “Les Vignerons de Franschhoek”
Boekenhoutskloof The Wolftrap Red 2013
Made from selected Swartland grapes. Fermented in stainless steel and aged in French oak. Assorted black fruits, violets and a hint of oak leads to a smooth savoury palate with a peppery finish. Soft tannins with lingering flavours makes for easy drinking. Cellar Price: R40 Boekenhoutskloof Tel: 021 876 3320 Email: info@boekenhoutskloof.co.za
Lynx Wines Vino Blanco 2014
The new addition to the Lynx range. Sophisticated, but totally unpretentious, this wine is affordable and meant to be enjoyed without having to spend hours analysing it. It is dry, unwooded and fresh, and is a blend of 73% Viognier and 27% Grenache Blanc. It has made its way onto the French Connection Bistro wine list where you can order it by the bottle or by the carafe. Cellar Price: R55 Lynx Wines Tel: 021 867 0406 Email: winemaker@lynxwines.co.za
Essence Restaurant & Coffee Bar’s Chicken liver peri peri Ingredients: 1kg chicken livers 1 large onion chopped 1 bay leaf 75ml periperi 2 tblsp sweet chilli sauce 250 ml chicken stock 2 cloves chopped garlic 1tblsp tomato paste 125 ml fresh cream Salt & Pepper
Method: Fry onion and garlic until soft. Add tomato paste. Then add chicken livers and brown. Add chicken stock and bay leaf. Cook until stock is reduced by half. Add peri-peri, sweet chilli and cream. Season and serve with toasted ciabatta Essence Restaurant & Coffee Bar Tel: 021 876 4135 Email: cafeflo@telkomsa.net
French Connection Bistro’s
Franschhoek Salmon Trout Fish Cakes Ingredients: 500g Fresh Salmon Trout Sides 500g Lightly smoked salmon trout sides 3 Large potatoes, peeled and mashed 1 Onion finely chopped 2 Cloves of garlic, finely chopped 2 Lemons, juice and zest 75g Finely chopped herbs – basil, parsley, chives, coriander Method: Debone and skin the sides of trout (smoked and fresh), season with salt and pepper. Place on a greased baking tray and bake at 180c until cooked through. When the sides of trout are cooked , leave to cool and flake.
Sweat off the onions and garlic in a pan with a little olive oil. Mix together the flaked salmon, mashed potato, onion, garlic and herbs. Season with lemon zest and juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Roll in to 80grm cakes, dust with flour, dip in egg wash and then breadcrumbs. Pan fry in a little olive oil until golden brown on the outside and warm on the inside. Serve with homemade tartare sauce or herb mayonnaise, watercress and fresh lemon. (Serves 4) French Connection Bistro Tel: 021 876 4056 Email: info@frenchconnection.co.za
Which website ranked Franschhoek as SA’s top winelands destination?
Spot Fransche @ 14 Vive la Révolution Francaise! Franschhoek www.fransche.com
Proudly South-African Proudly Fransche
Send your answer to: tatlercompetition@gmail.com. The winner will be informed by return mail before 15 June 2014. Prizes have to be collected from the Franschhoek Info Office before end June 2014 or be forfeited.
July 2014
THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
“Seasons at Terroir”; have you seen it on DStv channel 181? If not, it’s a local ‘kitchen’ programme without any Ramsey-like drama or Blumenthal techno-speak. Just Chef Micheal Broughton guiding his kitchen staff through various levels of culinary education and facing challenges on the way. I was delighted to note that in one episode his senior staff are seated in front of rows of glasses of wine, actually learning how to pair and match fine food and fine wines. Once on board, this knowledge can turn an excellent meal into a memorable one. Chef Broughton is indeed lucky to be located on Kleine Zalze wine estate with their wines on his doorstep. How many other highly rated restaurants go to similar lengths? I am sure that a great many arrange in-house tastings for their staff, and I am sure that some do not.
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How often do we come across a pleasant eatery but the focus is entirely on the food? I fail to understand how a chef can boastfully delight in spending time in their herb garden selecting the day’s ingredients while their knowledge of wine seems to start and finish with “Oom Tass”. I exaggerate of course, but it does happen that sometimes it is hard to find a liquid friend for your lamb shank. Let’s face it; there are many bouquets and brickbats to hurl around. Our visitors these days are more likely to come from Paris than Parys and they expect a goodly measure of service. We seem to be going through a period of transition as our multi-starred accommodation is becoming ever more attractive. Today’s discerning visitors are used to real haute cuisine and service to match. Let’s pull our socks up – but not so high as to reveal any holes!
Soccer Madness The Soccer World Cup fever is upon us and many will recall the joy and passion this event gave us in 2010. I am of an era that remembers the 1966 World Cup in England. It was then that I witnessed the incredible passion the Beautiful Game brings to a nation. England was in the final against Germany and we had invited friends to watch the match on television at our mews apartment. One of the invitees was a double-barrel named Englishman (I leave his name out for courtesy) who surprised us all, when as full time was about to be blown and Germany equalised jumped up in celebration. We still have never understood why he celebrated the German goal. Suffice to say this brought out unbridled emotion from the rest of us and we promptly evicted him from our apartment. I well recall his pleas to be allowed back in to watch the extra time, but the passion and the raw emotion was punctuated by us not allowing him back in. A consequence of his spontaneous support of Germany was that none of us watching that match ever spoke to him again. In my family the national pride the game brings is complicated. Kindly understand the difficulty of having a French Mother, a Welsh Father. My brother has an Italian/Russian wife while ‘My Peggy’ is American. The only time I watch soccer is during the World Cup and over the years I have found that it is the prudent time for me to have no opinions. This
I believe has saved me from being ousted from any of our homes! Allow me to add it doesn’t get any easier during the Rugby World Cup. During the year I am often invited to attend Charity Golf Days and last month I was pleased to enjoy a golf day with a difference. It was a fundraiser for the amazing Zip Zap Circus School. The difference was that on several tees members of the school greeted us with highly innovative challenges. We were asked to learn how to juggle balls (I failed) – balance a golf club on one finger and transfer it from one finger to the next and then the next (I failed) and then asked to hit a marshmallow off the tee as far as possible. Annoyingly both the ladies out hit the men. At prize giving we marvelled at the talent of these troubadours. On a stage no longer and wider than two rectangular dining tables with steps attached we witnessed an amazing cycle act, then two of the students made magic in and around two oversized hula-hoops. A sensational juggling act had a total of eight balls whizzing both upwards and downwards at a pace that defied possibility and the evening was topped with a brilliant act inclusive of two of the golfing guests as volunteers acting out a very clever scenario orchestrated by a very captivating mime artist.
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THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
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July 2014
Gold for Cape of Good Hope Sauv Blanc More Foundation Stones from Rickety Bridge 2014 Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show The Cape of Good Hope Altima Sauvignon Blanc 2013, from the Anthonij Rupert Wyne portfolio, has been awarded a Gold Medal at this year’s Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show. This latest award follows on the heels of its recent accolade at the 2014 Top 100 SA Wines Competition, where it was selected as one of the Top 100 Wines in South Africa. In 2013 it also earned a spot as one of the Top 10 wines in the FNB Sauvignon Top 10 Wines Competition. The Altima forms part of a range of terroir-specific wines created in recognition of South Africa’s 350-year-old wine heritage. The Altima vineyard is situated in a pristine valley north of Villiersdorp and is surrounded by a steep mountain range that rises 1km from the valley floor. During the winter months these mountains are typically covered with snow and, coupled with the elevation of 600 to 700m, makes
for a very cool climate. This unique terroir produces wines with a high natural acidity and upfront aromas. The wine is best described as displaying appealing tropical fig and pear aromas with granadilla and lemon zest, adding brightness and vivacity, with exquisite ripe tropical flavours in the mouth. It is a vibrant and lively wine with well integrated acidity. The palate is textured and round with good mouth feel, allowing the wine to finish on a light, dry and flinty note. Available directly from the farm at R95.00 per bottle, the Cape of Good Hope Altima Sauvignon Blanc 2013 is the perfect wine to enjoy on its own, or with foods such as scallop ceviche with an avocado and tomato dressing; sushi; sticky pork ribs with lime, chilli and ginger; baked Chevre with salad greens or succulent sautéed prawns served with grilled lemon and toasted sesame seed dressing. www.rupertwines.com | 021 874 9041
Rickety Bridge’s Rhône-style blend, the Foundation Stone, was first launched in 2008. The components of this innovative blend have changed, but always stayed true to the Rhône-style, with the 2012 vintage comprising a new blend of six Rhône-style cultivars – Syrah, Cinsaut, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Tannat and Viognier. Named after the cornerstone of the original ‘rickety bridge’ which straddles the Franschhoek River and ushers one into the estate, the Foundation Stone boasts a highly acclaimed track record: The maiden 2008 vintage attained an admirable four-star rating in the 2010 Platter’s SA Wine Guide; the 2010 Foundation Stone was named one of the Top 100 SA Wines for 2012, scooping, in addition, a Best Value award; and the 2012 Foundation Stone was recently judged one of the Top 100 SA Wines for 2014. Last year Rickety Bridge decided to complement this wine with the only other long standing blend in the range, the Rickety Bridge Rosé, which as from the
20 Years of a Franschhoek icon and 40% Pinot Noir – which turned out to be glorious, and has forever remained an honoured flag bearer of the South African wine industry. Combined in perfect proportions, the Chardonnay contributes elegance while the Pinot Noir brings intensity and richness. At the time, Cape restaurateur Yvonne Romano of the Mediterranean Kitchen had put a challenge to wine producers: she sought a white wine to match her Bouillabaisse. “We took the challenge and, with a few friends, we enjoyed a magnificent lunch at the Mediterranean Kitchen,” recalls Von Arnim. “Our new blend was so beautiful and we were suddenly convinced that this wine held a lot of promise for the future.” Significantly, during that same year, the Von Arnim’s acquired their second property on the Franschhoek mountain pass, overlooking the valley. Here Haute Cabrière – the home of Pierre Jourdan – grows its distinctive portfolio of wines based on a simple philosophy: the balanced contributions of Sun, Soil, Vine and Man. It is these four words that adorn a sundial erected at the entrance to Haute Cabrière’s subterranean restaurant and maturation cellar. A perfect accompaniment to seafood and salad dishes, the Haute Cabrière Chardonnay Pinot Noir sells for around R85 a bottle and is available at all reputable wine stores, restaurants and from the estate. www.cabriere.co.za │ 021 876 8500
The year 1994 saw South African emerge into freedom. It was also the year that Haute Cabrière’s cellar master, Achim von Arnim, became an accidental pioneer. Here in the vineyards of Franschhoek, he became the first to produce a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, giving rise to a South African icon wine. At its genesis, the Haute Cabrière Chardonnay Pinot Noir represented true pioneering work by Von Arnim. The Burgundian varietals were barely on the fringes of South African wine. Now, two decades later, the esteemed white blend remains on top wine lists and continues to win hearts, thanks to a sustained and lifelong commitment by the Von Arnim family. The wine’s success came about mostly by surprise and co-incidence, says Achim von Arnim. “We approached the bank to buy a small farm in Franschhoek and set out to produce an equivalent to Champagne from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.” From its humble beginnings, demand for the Pierre Jourdan MCC range grew steadily, but suddenly hit a snag. “The 1994 crop was very small, which meant the grapes ripened very early and rapidly,” recalls Von Arnim. “The base wine was 12% alcohol, making it unsuitable for the MCC – but we had to market our crop in order to bring in the money to re-pay our loan.” Determined to make the best of the situation, Von Arnim went ahead and bottled this portion of wine as a still blend of 60% Chardonnay
We specialise in Residential & Farm Sales, Commercial, Rentals, Developments & Financing.
To discuss your needs with a Sales Partner please contact Janice or Kate Hicks: C: Janice: 072 991 6272 E: janice.hicks@rawson.co.za C: Kate: 079 068 2130 E: kate.hicks@rawson.co.za Office phone: 021 876 4570 Shop 7, 62 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek (Next to Huguenot Fine Chocolates)
2013 vintage is dressed in the same striking label as the original Foundation Stone, but with subtle changes to the colour palette. Rickety Bridge has now just released its first white blend into the Foundation Stone range – a subtly oaked 5-cultivar Mediterranean-style wine, again sporting the Foundation Stone label with appropriate changes. Consensus in the industry is that premium white blends is the most exciting category of South African wines at the moment. This and winemaker Wynand Grobler’s personal intrigue with the category motivated Rickety Bridge to seek out interesting pockets of high quality vineyards of Mediterranean varieties, such as Ugni Blanc, Roussanne, Viognier and Grenache Blanc to team with the Chenin Blanc from Rickety Bridge. Remarks Managing Director Jan van Huyssteen, “Having proved the success of the Foundation Stone red blend over the past few years, Wynand was inspired to create complementary blends to accompany it, and he now has a trilogy of captivating blends.” The Foundation Stone red and white blends retail for approximately R85 at leading retailers and specialist wine merchants, while the rosé retails for approximately R50 per bottle. www.ricketybridge.com │ 021 876 2129
Rickety Bridge winemaker Wynand Grobler
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July 2014
THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
Laughing from the depths of your belly! The most beautiful sound in the world is, without a doubt, the sound of a young child’s laugh. It comes from somewhere deep inside their tummies and has no boundaries. It’s more infectious than any disease on earth and can change your mood in a matter of seconds! It’s a pity our lives are often too busy to allow us to enjoy these moments to the full. I have a four-year-old who at times makes the most ridiculous jokes, falling over on purpose, pretending to walk into things; she thinks it’s hilarious. I’m embarrassed to admit that at the end of a long day my knee-jerk reaction to some of her jokes is, “Shhhhhhh, don’t be so silly!” It recently dawned on me that this reaction is a terrible one, disadvantaging both me and my child. It would be criminal of me to put an end to her silly behaviour - it is, after all, her way of developing a sense of humor, a tool we want all our children to be equipped with. This is how it all works. Less than a second after being exposed to something funny your body sends an electrical wave through the brain. The left side analyzes the words of the joke; the right side “gets” the joke; the visual sensory creates the images; the emotional system makes you happier and the motor
sections make you smile or laugh. Isn’t it amazing? So humor could be seen as a function of the brain – and which parent wouldn’t encourage something that involves the development of their child’s brain? Research has shown that children who have the ability to laugh and make jokes have more extensive creative abilities, they have a good self-esteem, they have good social skills and are more resilient in life. On the physical front laughing lowers blood pressure, gives the abdomen and facial muscles a good workout, reduces stress and can even defend against respiratory infections! It looks like listening to the odd ridiculous joke can do no harm. Next time you have the urge to stop your five-year-old laughing uncontrollably because they pretended to slip over the mat, remember that this is his/her way of developing a necessary sense of humour, which will have physical and mental benefits for the future. In this case joining them is the best advice – most of us need to lower our blood pressure anyway! Besides, it’s about time we take a page from our little one’s book and remind ourselves how to laugh from the depths of the belly. Life is such a blessing! Jenny Karsen – The Bumble Bee Play School
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THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
8
Tatler Motoring
Nissan Navara - Moving on up Much more modern and upscale with LED daytime running lights and a more refined visual character outside and inside, Nissan promises a complete overhaul on the forthcoming new Navara. New, highquality materials and faux aluminium trim are the order of the day, while there’s a high-resolution TFT display on the instrument cluster that shows the compass and turn-by-turn navigation instructions, as well as your audio information, and a fuel economy indicator. Power comes from a reworked 2.5-litre oil-burner in either120kW or 140kW versions, or an 11% more efficient petrol mill of the same capacity.
BMW X6 - Niche buster BMW has always enjoyed creating niches. Some folk loved the idea, others hated the coupé with four doors that was an SUV too. Well, BMW’s X6 has gone on to become a resounding success and 250 000 units later, Munich has introduced the all-new second generation X6. Those powerful new haunches and squat stance make for an imposing presence - never mind that it’s up to 22% cleaner and more efficient than before. Keeping driving pleasure remains the key priority via three adaptive suspension packages and the regular engines and drivetrain currently found in the latest X5. Porsche Martini Racing edition 911 Carrera S Martini-liveried Porsche racecars are amongst the most recognisable, and coolest, cars in the world. Well, Porsche obviously reckons so too, as it reveals the Martini Racing edition 911 Carrera S to celebrate Porsche’s Le Mans return. For the full lowdown on these stories and all the latest car news don’t miss Michele Lupini’s AutoWeek newspaper on sale now at most Franschhoek news stands
July 2014
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Linked/Fixed to FNB prime rate, currently 9%. Offer calculated on Audi A4 models in standard specification, excluding RS4 Avant. Information subject to change without prior notification. Audi Financial Services – a division of Volkswagen Financial Services South Africa Proprietary Limited. An Authorised Financial Services and Credit Provider NCRCP6635. Offer valid from 1st May until 31st July 2014 and subject to stock availability. Terms and Conditions apply. Flat Rate Comprehensive Insurance restricted to certain model derivatives (excludes S & RS models) and only Linked/Fixed prime rate, currently Offer calculated on Audi A4 models in standard specification, excluding RS4 Avant. Information subject to change without prior notification. valid for the fito rstFNB 12 months. Insurance is 9%. underwritten by Hollard Insurance Company, an Authorised Financial Services provider. Audi Financial Services – a division of Volkswagen Financial Services South Africa Proprietary Limited. An Authorised Financial Services and Credit Provider NCRCP6635. Offer valid from 1st May until 31st July 2014 and subject to stock availability. Terms and Conditions apply. Flat Rate Comprehensive Insurance restricted to certain model derivatives (excludes S & RS models) and only valid for the first 12 months. Insurance is underwritten by Hollard Insurance Company, an Authorised Financial Services provider.
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July 2014
THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
Gardening in July
Plant of the Month
Natie Ferreira
Is it just me or is this winter colder than usual? It is as if the cold penetrates deeper into my limbs and home this year. The sunny winter days in between the cold fronts are also few and far between and even then the sun feels quite weak on your back. July is the one month that a gardener in the Western Cape can safely schedule a long vacation and this year is no exception. The soil is simply too wet to work and all other tasks can wait for August. But if you are like me and start to get fidgety about not getting your hands dirty I can still think up some work for you. Working on your pots and other containers can be a very satisfying experience, even on rainy days. Give your planters and flowerboxes a good revamp. Be adventurous about this and play with new colours – even terracotta pots can be painted. Rather replace the 10-year-old geranium with something fresh. Play with plant combinations and go for some interesting textures and colours. A good book or magazine can give you some inspiration. Always plant in good quality soil and remember that you are responsible for all the nourishment the plants might require; feed regularly with foliar feed and slow releasing granules. The winter months are an excellent time to establish new Fynbos plants. Be careful not to do too much digging if you have heavy soil, but plant holes can be dug and amended as necessary. Most Western Cape plants prefer good drainage. If you find that the plant holes fill up with water and don’t drain well, you probably need to install agricultural drains. The alternative is to look for plants that can handle this type of condition – there are plenty of restios, indigenous bulbs, agapanthus, sages and other plants to look at. Ask a professional to give you some advice if necessary. It is probably too cold to really sow anything, but if you are patient you can attempt some allyear veggies like radishes, lettuce and beetroot. Seedlings might be a better option in July, but is always the more expensive alternative. Stake and tie peas and broad beans and harvest every 2 to 3 days. Remove harvested cabbage plants regularly to avoid creating a refuge for snails and other pests. Some side dressing of organic fertiliser might be necessary to keep peas, chard, beetroot and lettuce growing healthily. Deciduous fruit trees should have been pruned
9
Frankie Brooks
by now and if you haven’t done so already you will have to brace the cold and get it done. Because different fruit trees bear fruit on different wood it is best to consult a good gardening book on the subject. You can also call up one of the better garden services in your area for some advice. Vine pruning should be done by the end of the month, but can also wait until August. I prefer to prune my roses as late as possible and the first week of August is perfect for this. Cold rainy days are simply the best time to spend in the kitchen. The warmth from the stove top heats the entire home and the smell of good wholesome food warms the heart. Apart from the usual broth or soup bubbling away I also keep myself busy using up the last of the green tomatoes, the first cauliflower and broccoli of the season and the abundance of lemons around. Salting lemons is one of the easiest and tastiest ways to preserve them. Cut a cross into each lemon and pack into jars with layers of course salt in between. Leave for at least 3 months (but up to a year) before taking some out to rinse and taste.
Prim and Proper – Primulas When thinking ‘winter garden’, the vibrant palette offered to us by Primula malacoides (Fairy Primrose) and its cousin Primula acaulis (English Primrose) are among the first thoughts that come to mind. Planted en masse, the versatile Primula malacoides creates a sea of blooms that gives a real wild flower feel to your garden but they’ll work equally well as border plants and in containers. Fairy Primrose is available in white, crimson, lavender, purple, pink and rose with adult plants reaching up to 45 cm tall and 20 cm across and will complement your spring flowering bulbs beautifully by flowering well into summer. The English Primrose flowers in tight bunches and is much shorter than the Fairy, but offers a comparable range of colour, so remember to plant them in the front of your beds because their low height makes it an excellent choice for borders. Acaulis, meaning “without stem”, is quite a literal description, as their flowers seem to come straight out of the leaves. Sweating it out in the heat is not something acaulis do well so they normally die down early in the summer.
Nothing truly heralds the onset of spring like the prim and proper primula. When your garden is at its most dormant the spectrum of colour they provide is sure to lift you, and it, from the winter doldrums. You simply can’t afford to do without them this winter! www.lifeisagarden.co.za
Rainfall Figures Measured at La Cotte/Nerina Street for periods indicated
mm/year 2002
1100
2003
824
2004
709
2005
916
2006
884
2007
1153
2008
1217
2009
978
2010
740
2011
830
2012
1079
2013
1471
mm/month 2013
Dam Levels 2014
Month
Accumulative
Month
Accumulative
January February March April May June
11 36 20 83 88 246
11 47 67 150 238 484
69 5 76 50 120
69 74 150 200 320
July August September October November December
139 409 131 61 242 5
623 1032 1163 1224 1466 1471
As at 16 June 2014 Steenbras Upper Steenbras Lower Wemmershoek Voëlvlei Theewaterskloof Berg River Dam
97.0% 63.9% 85.3% 74.4% 95.9% 101.3%
Total Storage 90.9% This Time Last Year 64.4% - 89.5%
Tel: 021 876 3171 | Fax: 021 876 3176 E-mail: info@ftyres.co.za | Mobile: 082 493 9337 Shop 1, 7 Main Road (Behind BP), Franschhoek, 7690
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THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
10
ACVV Nuus
Riana Pretorius
ACVV Franschhoek het talentvolle, toegewyde en passievolle personeel. In die vorige uitgawe het julle vir Mientie en Lumka – ons maatskaplikewerkers ontmoet. Vandag wil ek julle voorstel aan Penny, ons hulp maatskaplikewerker. Penny is jonk en baie toegewyd aan haar werk. Sy bied baie programme aan om die gemeenskap en kinders bewus te maak van kindermishandeling. Sy bied gemeenskapsessies aan oor die Kinderwet, lei vrywilligers op en gee ook ouerleiding klasse. Dit is ook so belangrik om kinders, ouers en onderwysers bewus te maak van die tekens van kindermishandeling. In Mei het die ACVV Kinderbeskermingsweek gevier. Tydens die sopkombuis by die ACVV kantoor,
het van die mense vir die eerste keer in hulle lewe lekker speletjies gespeel en uit hul magies gelag. Onthou jy om elke dag een keer uit jou maag te lag?!
After the fun and games, the parents identified problem areas in the community. The social workers will help them overcome the following problems: Taking repsonsibility for your child; Respecting each other; Safety; Communication; Liquor and drugs; Friends; Poverty Please help the ACVV to assist the underprivileged families in our area. You could help by donating jerseys and blankets. The social workers will identify the person in need and hand over the blanket or jersey. We also have a shortage of food at the soup kitchens each week. Donations for any products to make a healthy, thick soup for at least 120 people would be appreciated. Thank you so much to all the individuals and businesses in Franschhoek that are already donating food and warm clothing.
Wees dankbaar, want ander het minder.
Farm Dialogue receives recognition On 10 June the Western Cape Economic Development Partnership (EDP), which falls under the newly created Ministry of Economic Opportunity, held a “Laboratory” at D’Aria estate in Durbanville. Jeremy Davids was invited to address the seminar on the work of the Franschhoek Valley Transformation Charter (FVTC), and John van Zyl was asked to outline the history of the Farm Dialogue as a casehistory. Both presentations were very well received and praised by Minister Alan Winde, who went to describe his vision of a vital agribusiness sector in the Western Cape. He emphasised the role of the EDP in adding value to production, in creating jobs and in increasing the skills base in order for farming to remain competitive. He promised to cut back on red tape to encourage the growth of SMMEs and to engage seriously with the retail value chain to improve the financial return on farm produce to farmers. The previous day, 9 June, Charlotte van Zyl and John
van Zyl of the FVTC were invited by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture to attend its first “Farm Dialogue” at Le Provence Estate. The event was facilitated brilliantly by Braam Hanekom, the moderator of the DRC in the Western Cape, who is also known as a progressive social activist. About 80 farmers from as far afield as Oudtshoorn and Namaqualand attended the dialogue, each companied by at least one farm worker (a stipulation of the invitation.) Hanekom stressed the importance of communication and relationships between employers and employees and in the lively dialogue that ensued it was apparent that progress is being made in social cohesion and in creating “bridging social capital” in agriculture. Hanekom’s challenge was “Is my farm a place where a worker can dream a dream?” From the discussion it was clear that the Franschhoek Charter Farm Dialogue is doing pioneering work in this regard. John van Zyl
Franschhoek Probus Club
Alta Malherbe
Luncheon Meeting – 7 July 2014 12h30 for 13h00 La Petit Dauphine – Studio/Café Bonbon A Probus Club is a local association of retired or semi-retired professional or business people, (or others who have had a measure of responsibility in any field of worthy endeavour), who are of good character and are respected in their communities. The Club meets regularly for fellowship and an extension of its member’s interests. We would like to invite new members to join our club. The joining fee is only R50 and membership R100 per year. For this you will be informed of our monthly meeting where we usually have a speaker.
For the July meeting our talk should be very interesting: Heidi Rowley presents “Reach for a Dream”. Those who have not yet paid, please bring along your membership fees for 2014. As usual, our meeting will be on the first Monday of the month which will be 7 July 2014. Should anyone, who is not a member, want to join us for lunch, please contact Alta Malherbe on 021 876 3179 or 082 338 5873 to reserve a seat. Lunch at 12h30 for 13h00 will be at La Petit Dauphine in the Cafe BonBon or the Studio. We order from a limited menu and each pays their own account. Please bring cash. Members will receive an invite to reply to. See you there!!
July 2014
Hospice News Colleen Douglas On Monday, 26 May, Franschhoek Hospice hosted another of its annual fundraising events. This year it took on a different theme “A Feast of Delights” and it was a feast! The NG Church Hall was packed with 150 guests who were welcomed with a glass of Bucks Fizz. Tables were laden with the most scrumptious cakes, tarts, quiches, scones, muffins, sandwiches and much more. All of these ‘delights’ were generously sponsored by restaurants, businesses and individuals in the valley. The star of the morning was without any doubt Nik Rabinowitz, who more than generously took time off his busy schedule to entertain our guests. From the minute he appeared on stage he had the audience in stitches. Nik amazed us with his talent and the various accents he used to mimic people from all walks of like. Nik had great interaction with the audience during his energetic performance. His sharp mind and wit took everybody on a whirlwind ride of hilarious
impersonations, stories and jokes. A true talent who graciously offered his support to Hospice. Thank you Nik for your generosity and valued time. We thank James Stewart for the sound system, Craig McNaught for operating the sound, and Alphio, who entertained us with beautiful piano music afterwards. Thank you to the NG Church for the venue and amenities you made available to us and to the following for the catering: Alrishca, BICCCS, Bread & Wine, Café BonBon, Chris Smit, Carol Yammin, Dords Agar, Essence, Gundi Caulkin, Le Bon Vivant, Le Quartier Français, Linda Codling , Pick ‘n Pay, Racine, Reubens, Salmon Bar, Terbodore, and Three Streams. Again, thank you sincerely. Thank you also to the dedicated staff and volunteers for your hard work. During Bastille week-end, we will be at the Town hall and Marquee, selling pancakes, berets, scarves and rosettes. See you there!
LEFT: Nik Rabinowitz with Colleen Douglas and some of the Hospice staff. RIGHT: Great comedy is best enjoyed with great company and great food
SPCA
Maggi Marjoram Bastille Boules 2014 Only a few weeks to go for our annual Boules Tournament to be held on 12 and 13 July 2014. Get those boules balls out of the cupboard, polished and ready for participating in our tournament at the Franschhoek Dutch Reformed Church. A team consists of three people and you can play for one or two days. However if you wish to enter the
big tournament prize and your team is successful your team must be available both days. Any queries please contact Maggi on 082 510 3680 or maggijm@telkomsa.net Franschhoek SPCA Facebook Check out our Franschhoek SPCA Facebook page to keep up to date with the animal scene in Franschhoek.
Franschhoek Bowls Club
Alta Malherbe
Dit is verblydend dat ons vir almal in die dorp kan vertel dat die Franschhoek Rolbalklub nou meer in die aande sal kan speel wat hopelik sal beteken dat meer van ons plaaslike mense wat bedags werk by ons sal kan aansluit. Ons gaan probeer om van middel Mei Woensdag en Vrydag aande ‚n sosiale aand met rolbal/boule te hê. Kom kyk gerus wat daar aangaan. Die klubhuis is ook beskikbaar vir geleenthede met of sonder rolbal. Spyseniering kan deur ons gedoen word of deur die persoon self. Die Boule baan is ook bietjie groter gemaak en het ons nou drie lekker bane beskikbaar. Vir enige verdere inligting kontak asseblief vir Alta Malherbe op 021 876 3179 / 082 338 5873 of vir Pietie le Roux op 082 920 1932.
***
It is with pleasure that we can now tell everyone in town that the Franschhoek Bowling is going to have the club open more in the evenings for bowls/boule, which should encourage local people who work during the day to join us and come and have a relaxing evening at the bowling club. From the second week in May, every Wednesday and Friday evening, weather permitting, we are going to open the club. Pop around and come and see what is going on at the club. The clubhouse is also available as a venue with or without bowls. Catering can be done by us, or by private arrangement.The Boule rink has been cleaned up and slightly enlarged. We now have three rinks available. For any further information please contact Alta Malherbe on 021 876 3179 / 082 338 5873 or Pietie le Roux on 082 920 1932.
FRANSCHHOEK HOSPICE INVITES YOU to a formal black tie 4-course dinner prepared by our great franschhoek chefs on 16th august at 7 pm at the
St Georges goes Indian Each table of ten will be hosted by a sporting star! R1000 per person - 10 items for auction - live entertainment. KINDLY SPONSORED BY
ALL PROCEEDS TO THE FRANSCHHOEK HOSPICE
Contact Colleen Douglas • Cell: 082 887 8666 • Tel: 021 876 3085 E-Mail: fhospice@xsinet.co.za FLTR: Richard Astor, Richard Allen, Father Joe Humbles, Mark Solms and Shaun Phillips at the successful Indian-themed dinner arranged by St George’s Church on 30 May.
July 2014
Letters
Invitation Last year on 18 July we celebrated Mandela Day by sharing love with people living with disabilities, expressing how we feel about them and recognising that we are all one regardless of our circumstances. This year on Mandela Day we will focus on people living with HIV and AIDS, diabetes, high blood pressure and other long-term illnesses. The aim for this Mandela Day is to show these people that life is positive if you have a positive attitude, inspire them with tools to bounce back from life’s challenges, let them know that they are not alone and encouraging them to have a happy life and healthy lifestyle. Food hampers will be handed to the needy and individuals living with these health conditions will share their experiences. We hope to also have medical professionals present to provide specialist knowledge. Let us show our support to vulnerable individuals and their families by showing a sense of belonging rather than isolating them from us. We are all human beings and created by God. People often remain the way they are because of the way they are treated. Building good relationships through communication and understanding can change our perspectives towards others and help them rise above their circumstances. We would like to cook a healthy lunch for those present and kindly appeal to concerned companies or individuals for financial support or healthy food (fruit, vegetables, etc.) to assist us with preparing the
THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER info@franschhoektatler.co.za
lunch and food hampers. We are expecting 100 people at this event and would appreciate, on their behalf, any help you can give. Together we can change and help shape a better community. To assist or for more information please do not hesitate to contact me. David Molorane Manager: Batho Tours and Batho’s Place Restaurant bathotours@gmail.com Cell: 082 090 8660
We are proud Langrug does not have the infrastructure to be properly developed. Yet every month a new Educare centre is opened. If a project is undertaken in Groendal, the majority of participants/beneficiaries have to be from Langrug. We are a very hard working community. If there is one thing that we will not do it is to beg people for help. We are proud and we have been here for generations. When people pass by our neighbourhood we are proud. We do not want to sell ourselves out to organisations run by rich white people. At the end of the day we still have our heritage and dignity. We do not want people to look at us and say “Ag Shame.” Continue your work up in Langrug because you are alienating us. No more work for Langrug residents only. We are the majority of the work force. Proud Groendaller
Franschhoek Tatler a local media finalist The Franschhoek Tatler found itself in exalted company recently. It was a finalist in the 2013 MDDA-Sanlam Local Media Awards that were awarded at a ceremony in Gauteng in late May. The Tatler entered in the category for small independent newspapers that have been operating for more than five years. The category’s winner was Grocott’s Mail (Graham’s Town) and the third finalist was the Limpopo Mirror. The judges said of the finalists that they “demonstrated a high level of professionalism. They were well presented, consistent and with a good balance of colour that encourages readers to keep reading. It was easy to navigate the different pages of these newspapers as different sections were clearly marked.”
Editor’s Letter
Siegfried Schäfer
Dear Readers, Over the past few months Stellenbosch Municipality, as part of its Local Economic Development function, engaged in a Participatory Appraisal of Competitive Advantage (PACA). I recently got hold of the resulting report. It actually makes for interesting reading, particularly when compared to many other municipal reports I’ve had to endure reading. I suspect that is because the content of the PACA report is largely derived from private sector input rather than that of ivory tower bound consultants with no local insight. I’d like to focus a bit on a few aspects of what it has to say about tourism. Most importantly, I believe, it calls for a ‘tourism development framework’. This is the first municipal recognition, to my knowledge, that tourism development actually has to be managed. It could potentially be the answer to the dilemma of ‘killing the goose that lays the golden (tourism) eggs’. Thus far it has certainly seemed that if anybody wanted the Planning Department to approve their development plans they simply had to use the word ‘tourism’ a few times in their application. The PACA report also recognises that the municipality has been the major stifling factor for economic development and proposes to reconcile the pro- and anti-growth factions by striving for “Growth that makes Stellenbosch more beautiful.” Defining ‘beautiful’ could be a problem however. If providing formal housing for residents of informal settlements means covering entire highly, visible mountain slopes with RDP-type houses, does that make Stellenbosch more beautiful? Perhaps it does from a humanitarian point of view, but it certainly doesn’t from a tourism point of view. The PACA report states that the municipality will “Define guiding policy principles for tourism for the municipality.” I do hope that these principles will embody some attempt to define what ‘beautiful’ growth
is, as otherwise they really won’t serve much purpose. The report concludes by identifying no fewer than 22 new LED initiatives. I think they’re all good ideas, although the municipality will need a great deal of outside help to implement them – something that’ll require a significant attitudinal shift from officials who generally don’t seem to think any member of the public is capable of generating good ideas. None of these initiatives specifically applies to Franschhoek, though a number of them could also benefit Franschhoek in the longer term. These include: Optimal use of Municipal Property; EcoTourism Partnerships with Public Sector; the Tourism Development Framework; the Completion of a Transport Plan for Stellenbosch and Addressing the Middle Income and GAP Housing Market.
Op ‘n heel ander toerisme noot wil ek iets sê oor vanjaar se Bastille Fees. Die groot nuus hier is natuurlik dat die markiestent na die Hugenote Monument area skuif. Ek glo dit sal baie doen om die samedromming van mense in ‘n klein deel van die dorp te verlig deur die feesaktiwiteite oor ‘n groter area te versprei. Met heelwat parkering aan die bopunt van die hoofstraat behoort die onordelike parkering situasie van vorige feeste ook te verbeter. Hopenlik sal die wetstoepassers hierdie jaar ook hulle deel doen en dronklappe van ons strate verwyder en seker maak hulle klim nie in hulle karre en bestuur op ons paaie nie. Nog ‘n nuwe aspek van hierdie jaar se fees is die teenwoordigheid van ‘n groep Seychelse dansers. Saam met die plesierigheid wat hulle na die fees gaan bring is daar ook die geleenheid om vakansies in die Seychelles te wen. Al wat jy moet doen om te wen is om jou danspassies te ken! ‘n Glasie wyn voor die finale beoordeling mag dalk ‘n goeie idee wees... Tot volgende maand, Siegfried
Franschhoek Tatler Tel 021 876 3460 Email info@franschhoektatler.co.za Tatler Online www.franschhoektatler.co.za Deadlines - August 2014 Issue - Ad Bookings: 16 July 2014 Artwork: 17 July 2014 Editorial: 16 July 2014
Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve News
FRANSCHHOEK WINE VALLEY NEWS
Franschhoek Bastille Festival turns 21! 12 & 13 July 2014 Viva la France, viva la Franschhoek! This year marks a milestone as the Franschhoek Bastille Festival turns 21! Join the festivities on 12 and 13 July. A highlight of this year’s festival will be a performance by a troupe of 10 Seychellois dancers and musicians who will take part in the street parade, and will also perform in the Food and Wine Marquee on both days. Not only will they be performing but they will also be judging the Best Seychellois Dance as performed by keen festival goers. The prize for the best performance is two return tickets to Seychelles (departing from Johannesburg), courtesy of Air Seychelles. The prize also includes six nights’ accommodation in the Seychelles, courtesy of Eden Island Development Company (Seychelles) Limited. This prize will be awarded on Saturday and Sunday. A highlight not to be missed! The Food and Wine Marquee is the place to be and is where you will find fabulous wine and food created by some of the valley’s celebrated winemakers and chefs. This year the marquee will be at the Huguenot Monument grounds with its mountain backdrop and parking close by. As always the town will be a hive of activities, which include the popular Franschhoek Boules Tournament, the Solms-Delta Parade and the Barrel-Rolling Competition. Other favourite attractions are the Farmers Markets in the Town Hall and the Church grounds, with musicians and carnival performers adding to the festival experience. Entrance tickets to the Food and Wine Marquee, which can be booked directly through www. webtickets.co.za, cost R200 per person for the 21st Birthday Celebration on Saturday. Tickets for Sunday cost R180 person, which promises a more relaxed
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As of 1 July 2014 MRNR rates are as follows: A daily hiking permit costs R30.00 per adult. A daily paragliding permit costs R30.00 per person. The daily hiking and paragliding permits are valid for one day between the hours of sunrise and sunset. A year permit costs R150.00 per adult and allows unlimited entry for the permit holder for a period of 12 months from date of purchase. School-going children accompanying a permitcarrying adult are admitted free. A full-colour information pamphlet and hiking trails map costs R15.00. Researchers, school groups and community groups may apply to the MRNR Advisory Board for a special permit. Call the Franschhoek Tourism Information Office at 021 876 2861 for information. Permits can be purchased at the Franschhoek Tourism Information Office, or at the Huguenot Museum Shop, or at the Franschhoek Protea Hotel, or online at www.montrochellehiking.co.za. A year permit can only be purchased over the counter. All-in-all MRNR has more than 25 kilometres of hiking trails. Maintenance work on the eroded Lower Cats se Pad trail continues. Dogs, on leashes, are admitted only on the Uitkyk Trail.
Nuus Van Mont Rochelle Natuurreservaat Vanaf 1 Julie 2014 is MRNR tariewe soos volg: ‘n Dag permit vir stap of vir para-sweef kos R30.00 per volwassene en is geldig vir een dag tussen sonop en sononder. Toegang vir skoolgaande kinders wat ‘n permit-draende volwassene vergesel is gratis. ‘n Jaarpermit kos R150.00 per persoon; dis geldig vir onbeperkte toegang tot MRNR vir die permithouer vir ‘n
atmosphere. A discounted rate of R150 per person applies if you book a table of 10 (Sunday only). All ticket prices include a complimentary tasting glass, a R20 voucher for purchase of a bottle of wine in the marquee as well as a booklet of tasting coupons. Additional coupons can be purchased on the day. Booking is essential as tickets are limited. Once the marquee is full no more visitors will be admitted. So, dust off your berets and dress up in your finest red, white and blue for one of this year’s social calendar highlights! For more information visit www.franschhoekbastille. co.za or contact the Franschhoek Wine Valley offices on 021 876 2861. For regular updates follow us on @ Franschhoek_SA.
tydperk van 12 maande vanaf aankoop. ‘n Volkleur brosjure met nuttige inligting en kaart van die voetslaan-roetes kos R15.00. Navorsers, skoolgroepe en gemeenskapsgroepe kan by die MRNR Adviesraad aansoek doen om ‘n spesiale permit. Kontak die Franschhoek Toerisme Inligtingkantoor by 021 876 2861 vir inligting. MRNR is deel van ‘n verklaarde wêrelderfenis-gebied vir die wêreld-beroemde Kaapse fynbos. Die reservaat het meer as 25 kilometer voetslaan-paadjies. Honde word nie toegelaat nie behalwe aan leiband op die Uitkyk-roete.
THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
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Financial Matters
Business Leadership
Celia McGuinness Capital Gains Tax - What You Need to Know
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) was implemented in South Africa on 1 October 2001. It is a tax charged on the disposal of assets and is calculated as the proceeds received on the disposal of assets less the base cost (original cost plus improvements) of the asset. Not all assets are necessarily subject to CGT. Some of the important exclusions are the following: Primary residence (applicable to natural persons and special trusts only). If the proceeds on the sale of a person’s primary residence is less than R2m any capital gain is disregarded, but any capital loss may be carried forward. If the proceeds exceed R2m the first R2m of the capital gain or loss calculated is disregarded. Most personal belongings such as a motor vehicle (including a motor vehicle for which you receive a car allowance), a caravan, artwork, stamp collection, furniture and household appliances and other assets used mainly (that is, more than 50%) for a non-trade purposes. Boats not exceeding ten metres in length and aircraft having an empty mass of 450 kilograms or less which are personal-use assets. Lump sum payments from pension, pension preservation, provident, provident preservation and retirement annuity funds (approved retirement funds) Proceeds from an endowment policy or life insurance policy (but not if it is a second-hand or a foreign policy). Compensation for personal injury or illness. Prizes/winnings from gambling, games or competitions which are authorised by, and conducted under, the laws of South Africa, for example, the
Labour Law Fixed-term contracts When employers want to terminate a fixed-term contract before the expiry date, it would seem to make sense that this could be done, as long as they pay the employee for the full term. However, a recent Labour Court case has highlighted the fact that premature termination of employment may amount to an unfair dismissal. This means that employers may be held liable to pay compensation in addition to the amount paid out in terms of the contract. The premature termination of a fixed-term contract amounts to a breach of contract, unless the contract specifically makes provision for earlier termination. In terms of our common law the damages that an employee is able to claim for breach of contract, is limited to the amount still due for the remainder of the period of the contract. On the face of it, an employee would not be able to claim anything more if an employer terminated employment before the fixed term has expired. However, this illusion has been shattered by the more recent Labour Court case of PSA obo Mbiza v Office of the Presidency and others (2014) 3 BLLR 275 (LC). The Mbiza case dealt with the premature termination of the fixed-term contract of Mr Mbiza, who was employed as a housekeeping manager in the residence of the Deputy President, Ms Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka. The contract of employment was supposed to come to an end two months after the end of Ms Mlambo-Ngcuka’s term of office. However, when Mlambo-Ngcuka resigned on 24 September 2008, Mibiza had already been advised that his contract would be extended until 31 July 2009. Mbiza’s contract was nevertheless
July 2014
National Lottery If the asset was purchased after 1 October 2001 then it is straight forward to calculate the base cost of the asset - it is the original cost plus the cost of improvements made subsequent to purchasing the asset on condition these costs have been capitalised and not expensed and claimed for income tax purposes and these improvements still exist at the date of disposal. If the asset was purchased prior to 1 October 2001 then the base cost can be determined in one of three different methods - the choice of which method to use to determine the base cost at 1 October 2001 is up to the taxpayer while all qualifying costs after this date should be added to this cost to get the total base cost at the date of disposal. Upon calculation of the net gain or loss for all the assets an annual exclusion is given by SARS to individuals which can be deducted from the net gain (this exclusion is only available to individuals and not to companies). The net capital gain or loss (after deducting the annual exclusion) will then be included in the normal income tax calculation at the inclusion rate i.e. 66.6% for companies and 33.3% for individuals. It should be noted that it is a requirement by law that companies and close corporations maintain a fixed asset register. Furthermore, a lot of information needed in calculating CGT is obtained from the fixed asset register. We therefore urge all companies to maintain an up-to-date fixed asset register. Visit your local tax professionals to find out more about CGT and also how to maintain a fixed asset register in order to remain compliant with the law. terminated early and he left in January 2009. He was informed that his salary would be paid until 31 July 2009. Mbiza disputed this termination on the basis of an alleged unfair dismissal. At the arbitration hearing the reason for the early termination was the alleged incompatibility between the new Deputy President, Ms Baleka Mbete, and Mr Mbiza. The arbitrator found that the dismissal was for a fair reason, but that it was procedurally unfair. He ordered the employer to pay the employee compensation equivalent to three months’ remuneration for the procedural unfairness. Mr Mbiza was not happy with the outcome and approached the Labour Court. The
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Sustainability is not just a nice concept So much has been said about sustainability and depending on whom one talks to this could refer to finance, society at large or the environment. All of these have validity, but – and it is an important but – much more important than the individual raison d’etre of each is the necessity to see, understand and accept the fact of their interdependence. Unless they are managed this way and as one connected whole it is virtually assured that failure will be the consequence. Unless the fishing industry understands the impact it has had, and continues to have, on the health of fisheries worldwide and takes vigorous corrective action more and more communities that depend on the industry will find themselves struggling for survival with, of course, the concomitant impact on society at large because of the increasing pressure on governments to provide social security support. The more the government has to help, the more the government will need taxes to make this happen. Everyone loses. This is the vicious negative cycle that will grow unless we begin to take a truly holistic view of sustainability. This is not a government matter alone, although governments have a crucial role to play. It is the responsibility of everyone. In short, we need to create a culture which has sustainability at the forefront of all strategic thinking. We all need to learn to take the long view. This, of course, is much easier to say than to do but as we have said before in these columns at the very core of world-class strategy, implementation is key. Without implementation all we have is interesting conjecture and theory. So what are the key elements of implementation? Firstly there must be a crystal clear vision of the judge in the Labour Court pointed out that there was no evidence of incompatibility and found that, in addition to a being procedurally unfair, the dismissal had not been for a fair reason. In considering what compensation the employee should be entitled to, the judge referred to Section 195 of the Labour Relations Act and noted that “compensation was in addition to, and not a substitute for, any other amount to which the employee is entitled in terms of any law, collective agreement or contract of employment”. In addition to the fact that Mbiza had received several months’ pay without having to work, as well an amount equal to three months’ compensation for procedural unfairness, the judge decided to
end result. What will the organisation look like; how will it operate; what will it be doing, who will work there? Secondly, the communication around this and the process required to achieve it must reach all stakeholders over and over and over again to make sure that there is deep understanding of where we are going. Thirdly, it is critical to help people understand that the world is changing around them and that they need to change their comfort zone so that they work with the change and are sufficiently empowered to help it along rather than stand in its way. Why are these three elements essential to effective and sustainable leadership? Put very simply: At the heart of becoming properly sustainable is the mind-set necessary for robust resilience. An effectively sustainable organisation is entirely dependent on its people for sustainability, not just its leadership. The more the organisation creates a passionate belief in its own resilience, supported by clear evidence of this, the more it will find opportunities that had previously escaped it. Real sustainability is the ability to thrive (not just survive) in all circumstances. Obviously the ‘thrival’ rate will vary from time to time but the attitude that must be cultivated has to be: How do we thrive in this set of circumstances? Not only for now, but especially in the long term. Please notice that I said thrive, and not merely survive! An organisational attitude is not just a nice-to-have concept. It is an essential element of success in a world that changes faster and faster, in more and more discontinuous ways than ever before, and this is not going to slow down any time soon! tony@siroccostrategy.com
award a further three months’ remuneration as compensation for the dismissal having not been for a fair reason (substantive unfairness). In coming to this amount the judge took into account that Mbiza’s dignity and the freedom to engage in productive work had been impaired by the unfairness of his dismissal. The lesson to learn from this is that there are no short cuts in terminating fixed-term employment contracts. In addition to any damages that may be payable for breach of contract, the CCMA or Labour Court may award additional compensation on the basis that the termination was procedurally and substantively unfair.
FINANCIAL TIP
INVESTMENT DIVERSIFICATION A properly diversified investment portfolio across ASSET CLASSES [Equities, property, cash, bonds], GEOGRAPHIES [USA, UK, ASIA] and currencies [US $, Euro, Pounds and indeed SA Rand] is essential for any investor. If one’s investment horizon is medium to long term, even severe downturns in the market will not impact too heavily on your portfolio for a great length of time.
July 2014
THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
Laughing all the way to the bus On the last Thursday of May the Culture Vulture bus set off from Franschhoek with a group of keen theatre-goers on board. Their destination was the Theatre on the Bay to see Defending the Caveman. It was a cool and wet evening – ideal for a fun start with Graham Beck bubbly and wines. The comedy on stage that evening justified the show’s longstanding reputation and left no-one in doubt of
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Feats and peaks at Leopard’s Leap
Alan Committie’s talent. The wit and humour were irresistible, making for excellent entertainment. A safe and comfortable bus with tasty snacks on board shared with friends, old and new, added to a super outing. If you’d like to receive information on future outings, please send your name, email address and cell phone number to editor@franschhoekstyle.co.za.
Meet the new meat man
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On 12 June mountaineers Vaughan de la Harpe and Sean Disney will be at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards to talk about their book Poles Apart. The book deals with their unbelievable feat of having summited the world’s seven highest peaks and completing journeys to both the North and South Poles. Leopard’s Leap was recently recognised as Best Food and Wine Matching experience by the 2014 Drinks International Wine Tourism Awards. Their passion extends beyond their wonderful food and wine though, they also support and promote South African literature and local authors. This will be the fourth consecutive year that Leopard’s Leap is sponsoring the Open Book Festival (in September in Cape Town) to which this book event is a preamble. The readers’ evening starts with drinks at 18h30, followed by an informal discussion with the two adventurer authors from 19h00 to 20h00. After that everyone tucks into a rotisserie dinner with Leopard’s Leap wines. Copies of Poles Apart, signed by the authors will be for sale. Tickets are R200pp, bookings reservations@ leopardsleap.co.za or 021 876 8002. Tickets can also be won in a competition on the Leopard’s Leap Facebook page.
The meat counter at Good Food & Co is a carnivore’s delight
Good Food & Co has opened in Place Vendome. The meat counter with fresh and cured meat and artisanal cheese is right at the entrance. Warren McNicol, the owner of the business, says it is a place where you can find good quality meat and more, the “& Co” in the name referring to an honest companion. Warren knew Franschhoek did not have butchery and says it was the ideal place for a small specialised food business. He adds “What we do, we want to do really well and then expand to produce based on demand.” There’s a freezer with pies, soups and lasagnes for take home meals – a menu that will adapt according to the seasons. Sit down meals are bistro style with quiches proving very popular. The
coffee, served in cups that are just right, is good and goes well with the cupcakes made according to a recipe known only to the chef. Healthy hand-crafted produce stocks the shelves. Warren insists that what the label says is true; ‘hand-crafted’ or ‘preservativefree’ means just that. Discerning shoppers who have discovered Good Food & Co are returning, especially for the rib-eye steaks, free-range chickens and cured meats. Our guess is they will have more reason once the licence to sell wine is in place and the craft beer tasting room has opened behind the current premises. They may well ask whether the biltong will be ready before the end of rugby season.
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THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
July 2014
Book Review
Charlotte van Zyl
Q & A with Alastair Wood, Project Director of Bhabhathane What is Bhabhathane? A major programme to transform education in the Franschhoek Valley. Bhabhathane, meaning “butterfly” in isiXhosa, symbol of transformation and joy, is the successor to the Franschhoek Schools Transformation Project which was started in 2011. The project covers all seven schools in Franschhoek, being Bridge House, Dalubuhle, Franschhoek High, Groendal Primary, Groendal Secondary, Wes-Eind Primary and Wemmershoek Primary, and all 25 Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres. Some 5 000 learners attend these schools while some 700 children under 5 years attend the ECDs. The project is overseen by the Steering Committee comprising the Principals of all the schools and the Chair of the ECD Forum. How and why did you get involved? I attended a session at the Literary Festival in 2011 and heard Jonathan Jansen and others describe our SA education system as “broken”, that the government was not capable of fixing it and that we, the citizens, had an obligation to get involved. I have always been passionate about the potential role of education in resolving our country’s numerous issues and felt a strong obligation to get involved. In my previous life, I spent many years undertaking transformation projects within the corporate sector which skills I felt could be relatively easily applied to the educational environment In particular, I felt the Franschhoek Valley to be a geographically defined area containing a microcosm of SA society which would surely make the project manageable and capable of developing solutions which could be applied elsewhere. I further thought that, being a relatively wealthy society, this work should be able to be funded locally. I approached Melvin King (then principal of Bridge House Prep) who had been a co-presenter with Jonathan Jansen and we agreed to hold a workshop with the principals to discuss a way forward. Is education in Franschhoek Valley really so poor? While we have many pockets of excellence, our state schools are generally no different from others in the Western Cape. They are characterised by poor pass rates (for example, on the Western Cape Systemic Test for Literacy and Numeracy the average across the schools is below 30% for Grade 3 and 6), drop-out rates are high (40% of learners drop out before reaching Grade 12), Science and Maths are studied only by a tiny proportion of learners and in one school less than 10% of the learners take Maths for matric and do not have the option of taking Science. Only about half of our children between 0 and 5 years attend any form of pre-school before arriving to attend Grade R in primary schools, and many of the pre-schools offer very limited learning opportunities. Less than ten percent of ECD centres are fully registered and hence the majority do not receive subsidies from government and survive on sponsorship or small fees and donations. How will Bhabhathane transform this? In the first instance, the principals decided that the seven schools should form a partnership to share resources – be they skills or experiences. This was a major deviation from the past in which individual schools have always operated as silos and have been evaluated as such. Following a detailed assessment of the status in each school conducted by recognised educational experts, twenty focus areas were defined which required attention. These were subsequently refined into ten manageable cross-school
projects to be designed and implemented by the project team in conjunction with the Internal Transformation Teams within each school. ECD centres need assistance to become fully registered, agree a standard curriculum, receive food for those requiring it, and for teachers to achieve the required qualifications. What are the top priorities? The top priority project selected by the Steering Committee is the ECD project. This is based on the commonly accepted view that the most important years of one’s life in terms of education are under 5 years. This project will target full enrolment, improved facilities, a standardised curriculum, better qualified teachers, registration, and food provision for all learners. Second priority projects will be Principal Enrichment, Teacher Enrichment, Parental Involvement, and ICT, to be followed by Extra Mural Activities, Learner Retention, Psycho Social Support for Learners and other projects. Major resources will clearly be required and where will these come from? Estimates of the funding required to implement the top five projects is R29 million. A number of local Franschhoek fulltime and temporary residents have already made generous donations to the project. The appeal will shortly be extended to the wider Franschhoek community NGO partners have also agreed to fund part of the work, such as food provision. In addition, corporate and national/international funders of education are being approached. Responsible government departments (Education and Social Development) are being approached to contribute resources in areas which are their direct responsibility. Can you make sure that the changes are sustainable? This is a crucial question which has to be addressed by all projects which result in change in the way people operate, particularly since the project team is planned to disband within three years. In Bhabhathane, very specific approaches have been taken to establish a sense of ownership in those affected by change, be they ECD practitioners, teachers or principals. Wherever possible, performance of individuals will be evaluated based on how well they deliver within the new context. How can the local community assist? Firstly, if you are a parent or guardian of a child under the age of eighteen, get deeply involved in their day-to-day education, support them and encourage their best efforts tirelessly (or get others to do so if you are not able). Secondly, if you have skills which could be valuable to the schools themselves or to the schools’ School Governing Bodies (SGBs) such as financial, legal, or all round business experience, contact Bhabhathane and discuss how you may like to contribute. Thirdly, if you are in a position to contribute financially, contact Bhabhathane in order to discuss the most appropriate way to do so. Has Bhabhathane made a difference yet? A programme like Bhabhathane is best approached in a phased manner through first planning the entire programme, then designing the high priority projects and then implementing them. As the ECD project has been assigned the highest priority, we have completed the design and are currently piloting food provision to 250 pre-school children prior to rolling this out to all 700 children later this year. We are working with five ECD centres to help them register with the Department of Social Development and we are working with the ECD Forum to establish it as the sponsoring body for the project. Our Steering Committee is currently considering
An Imperfect Blessing By Nadia Davids Publ: Umuzi, 410 pages It is always a double blessing when, at the Franschhoek Literary Festival, you encounter local authors for the first time, read their books, and discover aspects of South Africa of which you were unaware. I was first introduced to life in the Muslim community of Cape Town by Ashraf Kagee’s novel “Khalil’s Journey” (reviewed in August 2013) after hearing him speak at the FLF. Now this book by Nadia Davids has further opened my eyes to this community and this culture. But, while Kagee’s story took us on an epic journey from 1903 to the present day, Davids focuses more narrowly on the period from 1986 to 1994. It is a deceptively simple story seen through the eyes of 14 yearold Alia Dawood, who lives in Walmer Estate on the slopes of Devil’s Peak. This area contains both large houses owned by wealthy merchants and also smaller properties owned by less affluent working class people. The children of the wealthy go to expensive private schools and the parents generally enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, even during this period, which spans the days of transition from apartheid to freedom. Family ties are strong, and the mosque provides a focus for their lives. Alia and her elder sister Nasreen enjoy a life-style not very different from their white counterparts. Only the rather gentle presence of their moderate faith distinguishes them from the citizens of Constantia. The girls bicker amongst themselves, are initiated into teenage club life, smoke their first zol and grow up faster than their parents
would like them to. However, the one disturbing factor in this quite idyllic life is their uncle Waleed. Unlike his brother Adam, who runs his thriving business undisturbed by overt political awareness, Waleed is a member of the UDF and engages in some fairly mild subversive activities. This brings him to the attention of the Security Police and he goes undercover. This also alienates him from his brother and the whole extended family. Davids cleverly uses two time frames, one in 1985/6 and the other in 1993/4, not quite in alternate chapters, but often enough to give the reader a sense of the momentous events that take place in that time of transition. What links Waleed to the lives of the girls is their decision to bunk school and attend the Chris Hani memorial service in St. George’s Cathedral. They do it in a spirit of bravado, rather than political protest, but are then caught up in violence after the service and have to be rescued by Waleed. Events spiral out of control and over the following days army troops erupt onto the previously tranquil private school grounds, spray the students with teargas and beat up the boys. All in the name of finding “terrorists”. This is a real loss of innocence for Alia and she begins to understand the actions of her uncle. Towards the ending of the novel a beautifully described pilgrimage takes place, as Alia boards a taxi on her own for the first time in her life, to thank Waleed for his assistance during the Hani protests. Through this she manages to start a process of reconciliation between her father and her uncle. With this beautifully written novel, a curtain has been lifted on a part of South African society that has remained hidden for too long.
Lessons from the Boot of a Car By Reg Lascaris Penguin Books Reg Lascaris’ fifth book Lessons from the Boot of a Car isn’t easy to pigeonhole. Its offering of equal parts business advice, self-help and memoir could have made it a clumsy read, but an innovative structure and the author’s refusal to pontificate (which many might say he’s allowed to, given what he’s achieved) pull it through in style. The book follows Lascaris’ life in the advertising industry. He co-founded TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris with partner John Hunt in South Africa in 1983 and has gone on to become TBWA\’s Regional President for Africa and the Middle East. Along the way the agency has piled up accolades previously undreamt of for an SA agency, including Financial Mail’s Agency of the Century and Ad Age’s International Agency of the Year. Short chapters deal with specific episodes and conclude by offering lessons to be learnt from each episode. This is done in a witty and fast-paced style, eminently suitable for today’s attention-deprived readers. At the end of the book the lessons, for life and business, are recapped. I fear that the type of passion and tenacity that literally saw Lascaris start what would become a world-renowned advertising agency from the boot of a beat-up car probably no longer exists. Hand-outs have replaced hard work, and instant
gratification trumps dedication. Lascaris rightfully laments the lack of risk-taking and entrepreneurship in today’s SA society, as that is precisely what the country needs now. I also don’t see many young people queuing up to work three months for free to gain the experience that is keeping them from getting on their ideal career track, as Lascaris did. TBWA\Hunt\Lascaris was behind some of the most iconic advertising campaigns ever to see the light in SA – all the result of their belief in ‘creativity without compromise’. Who doesn’t remember the BMW mouse, which is reprised on the book’s cover, or ‘BMW beats the Bends’ in response to Mercedes’s campaign touting its safety record in and ad showing a Mercedes going off a cliff on a twisty road? The list of iconic ads, like the list of awards they won, is too long to repeat. Nando’s, Standard Bank, Savanna, the ANC’s first election campaign… For the young and tech-savvy generation that might not remember these iconic ads and campaigns the book conveniently includes QR codes linking to clips of the ads, turning reading it into a multimedia experience. I hate jacket quotes, but that of Ben Kruger (Chief Executive, Standard Bank Group) does sum the book up rather well: “’Success is the good fortune that comes from aspiration, desperation, perspiration and inspiration.’ This well-known quote aptly describes the courageous journey depicted in this book. A truly inspiring read and a must for all budding entrepreneurs and cynics who believe you can’t break the mould.”
a number of approaches to the next highest priority project, being the Principal Enrichment project, and its implementation is imminent. Is there co-operation between you and other organisations like Kusasa? From its inception Bhabhathane has recognised that the only way to succeed is to collaborate with other organisations working in education in the valley. With this in mind, Bhabhathane compiled a list of 30 school support stakeholders in the valley and linked with North West University (NWU) and Priscilla Booysen of the Rupert Onderwysstigting to develop a collaborative strategy. This culminated in a successful meeting with all stakeholders in May, at which representatives from the Department of Social Development and the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) were also present. These meetings will occur monthly; the next one is scheduled for early July and will be coordinated by Bhabhathane, a representative from NWU and a liaison person
in the WCED. In addition, Bhabhathane is collaborating with both local and international NGOs either as partners or service providers to work on the above mentioned projects. Do you have specific goals according to a timeline? The planning phase of our work arrived at very specific timeframes and goals for each of the projects and those are contained in the planning report (which is available on our website). The availability of resources is always a major assumption when one commits to specific dates within projects and Bhabhathane is no different. We are currently in discussion with a number of major donor partners about funding, the outcome of which will confirm realistic target dates for the resource-intensive projects. Contact details Bhabhathane’s website is www.bhabhathane.org.za Alastair Wood (Project Director) is contactable at alastair.g.wood@gmail.com or 082 929 6111.
July 2014
THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
Young Lupini impresses in karting Franschhoek youngster Giordano Lupini has enjoyed a most encouraging year of karting following his step up to the fullsize Junior Max 125cc class at the beginning of the season. Fourth generation racer, Bridge House Grade 8 scholar Lupini (13) recently enjoyed another positive day’s racing aboard his La Vie de Luc/AutoWeek Zanardi to come home fifth in the supercompetitive class at the midseason fourth round at Killarney despite a few tough races early in June. That left Giordano fourth in the Cape championship at the half way point, just five points adrift of the third man and the top rookie in the class. Despite 2014 being his first year in the class, Giordano has had a consistent season and scored well in every round of the championship – even as he was still learning. “The first year in Juniors is always difficult — it takes a little time to get up to speed with double the power and much more grip than the 60cc karts I was used to,” young Lupini reflected. “But we have done better than expected and now that I’m
getting to grips with the big kart, we are closing in on the ultimate class pace and looking forward to a good second half of 2014 while we prepare for next year.” Giordano is proudly sponsored by Franschhoek businesses, with his effort backed by La Vie de Luc mineral water, CIR Construction, Taki’s and AutoWeek newspaper. The next race in the WP championship takes place on 19 July at the Killarney Kart Track.
Biosphere promotes food forests Well, if we need tree-hugging, we need to start with trees! This is the message of a new project by the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve. Going one step further though the project focusses on fruit trees in order to address not only the environment, but also food security. The project is sponsored by Luxembourg based EarthCall, the greening arm of gaming company ICE – which awards children with ‘virtual trees’ as points. Cash contributions or points convert into real trees – so that kids over there contribute to improving the lives of kids over here… In addition to greening, plantings contribute to carbonoffsetting, improve food security and provide shelter and shad. Most of all it instills a sense of pride... Recipients must dig the hole for the tree themselves and tend for the tree. Each tree is GPS recorded, so as to check on project progress. Local South African sponsors are also invited to contribute to trees or planting support – such as a vehicle and trailer needed to manage the stocks and delivery.
Mark Heistein CEO of CWBR says, “We also need help with the supply of water tanks and piping to collect water from the roofs, as well as low pressure irrigation systems for each garden”. This will be the next stage of support to the planting. He continues; “We hope that agri-suppliers and farms will see the shared benefit in getting involved” A further stage of the project sees the development of a training programme to teach people in the community to propagate trees in micro nurseries, to establish income generating units and to effect supply of trees for the rollout of the project. Imagine that in time, the shacks and slum areas can become green, as a reflection of the case that we have for the beauty of our fair Cape… For updates, see http://www.capewinelands biosphere. co.za/projects To get involved please contact heidi@ capewinelandsbiosphere.co.za +27 826366376 or to join the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve as a member for free, contact quinton@capewinelands.gov.za
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July 2014
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Smalls R30. 30 words max. Leave at Franschhoek Pharmacy with payment SELFSORG EENHEID TE HUUR 1: Ongemeubileerd. La Motte omgewing – by Leopards Leap, Maison en La Motte wynkelders. 1 Ruim slaapkamer en-suite met bad en stort, ingeboude kaste. Aparte sit/eetkamer. Afsonderlike kombuis met gasstoof. Ongever 4km vanaf Franschhoek. Elektrisiteit/gas uitgesl. Beskikbaar 1 Julie 2014. Huur R4 900 p.m., ½ dag skoonmaak van woonstel ingesluit. Geen diere. Skakel 082 558 1678 KITTENS AND DOGS looking for homes. Call Annette 021 876 3155 SELFSORG EENHEID TE HUUR 2: Ruim selfsorg eenheid semi-gemeubileerd –La Motte omgewing. Geskik vir enkel rustige persoon. Slaapkamer met ingeboude kaste. Badkamer. Oopplan sit/eetkamer en kombuis met gasstoof. Elektrisiteit/gas uitgesl. Beskikbaar 1 Julie 2014. Huur R3 600p.m, ½ dag skoonmaak van woonstel ingesluit. Geen diere. Skakel 082 558 1678 HOUSE TO LET: 2 Bedroom house to let in Franschhoek. Please contact Janet Brewer. 078 295 688 e-mail: kazuri@lantic.net LOOKING FOR THAT SPECIAL BOOK and can’t find it? Call John at the Armchair Explorer , we will source it for you. Cell: 082 361 0090 PET-CARER / PET-SITTER/ HOUSE-SITTER/ CARETAKER/ SUPERVISE CARE OF HOUSE, CAR, POOL, GARDEN, OR GUEST HOUSE: Responsible, mature woman of integrity. Have had experience as Tour Guide, Manager, Function Coordinator.
I’m Trustworthy, Reliable, Honest, Friendly, Intelligent, and Capable. 083 270 9555 MUSIC LESSONS: Guitar, Bass, Drums and Keyboard and theory lessons at the Nicholas Kerr Music School. Contact Nicholas Kerr on 0824309383 or via feralnighthammer@gmail.com BOOK BINDING AND BOOK REPAIRS. John Hicks 082 361 0900 or john@thearmchair explorer.co.za HOUSE SITTER AVAILABLE: Short, medium or long-term. Contact Nicholas Kerr on 0824309383 or via feralnighthammer@gmail.com FOR SALE: White wood wide slatted venetian blinds. 2 blinds 1830 x 1170 (w) & 2 blinds 2600 x 1170 (w) R4500. Jenny: 072 252 5053 or 082 809 8053. EXCESS BOOKS? Shelves creaking, moving house or just thinning out your collection? Contact John Hicks. 021 876 4129 FOR SALE: Dark brown blinds. 4 blinds 58 x 88, 1 blind 37 x 88. R800. Jenny: 072 252 5053 or 082 809 8053. BABYSITTER: Honest, reliable lady to look after your children after hours. Please contact Adrienne for a quote. 072 850 7287 GARDEN REFUSE REMOVAL: Please contact Adrienne for a quote. 072 850 7287 TUPPERWARE AGENTE BENODIG: Verdien tot 30% komissie. Kontak my by 084 461 7043 of 073 199 3900. PART-TIME BOOKKEEPER required for upmarket business in Franschhoek. Proficient in Pastel and Excel. Contact gallery@grandeprovence.co.za
Franschhoek IT Services
YOUR AD HERE! Call 021 876 3460 to find out more about advertising with us
PC REPAIRS AND SERVICES New Computers * Refurbished Computers * PC Repairs Apple Mac Support * Network installations + cabling Digital cameras Hennie Nel - 082 356 0226 Email - franschhoekit@vodamail.co.za Servicing and supplying Franschhoek’s IT hardware since 2006
Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve FRANSCHHOEK Daily hiking permit R30.00 per adult • Daily paragliding permit R30.00 per person Year permit R150.00 per adult • Information pamphlet and hiking trails map R15.00 Permits can be purchased at the Franschhoek Tourism Information Office, or at the Huguenot Museum Shop, or at the Franschhoek Protea Hotel, or online at www.montrochellehiking.co.za. A year permit can only be purchased over the counter. Keep the permit with you on the hike. Enter & hike at own risk. Do not hike alone. Alway put safety first.
Cell: 083 252 1054 Fax: 021 876 3501 E-mail: wwt@iafrica.com
FRANSCHHOEK’S
FOR BUILDING • GARDENING • RENOVATING SITUATED BEHIND BP GARAGE • WE SPECIALISE IN: TOOL & EQUIPMENT HIRE Brush Cutters, Lawn Mowers, Chain Saws, Concrete Mixers, Drills, Compressors, Pumps, Jackhammers SERVICING & REPAIR Light Industrial Equipment RUBBLE & REFUSE REMOVAL DELIVERIES LIGHT DOMESTIC MOVES PORTABLE LOOS CLEANING of businesses and other premises
always at your service
072 378 1916 or 021 876 4123 Email: onhireo@gmail.com
July 2014
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Hennie Nel 082 356 0226 | franschhoekit@vodamail.co.za
FRANSCHHOEK
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THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
July 2014
July Calendar 12 - 13 July
Franschhoek Backgammon Club meets
Celebrate Bastille Day in French carnival style. Venue: Huguenot Monument & along main road. Time (Marquee): 12h00 – 17h00. Cost (Marquee): R200 per person. Tickets: www.webtickets.co.za
All welcome. Own board not required. Venue: Taki’s Place . Time: 19h00 . Info: Graeme Oliver – graeme@ poachedrhino.org or 072 815 8209
Bastille Festival
12 July
La Motte Classical Concert French Festivities – Petrus de Beer (Violin) and Albert Combrink (Piano) Venue: La Motte Historic Cellar. Time: 18h30 for 19h00. Cost: R170 per person. Reservations: 021 876 8000 (Angela) or concerts@la-motte.co.za
Guess Where? How well do you know your valley? See if you know where each month’s photo was taken. In the following month’s Tatler we’ll give you the answer.
Did you get it right last month? The Jan Joubertsgat bridge on the Franschhoek Pass is one of three stone arch bridges that were built as part of the Holloway Pass over the Franschhoek Mountains. The Holloway Pass constructed between 1823 and 1825 replaced Cats Path (1819) as the only wagon route to the Overberg. The route was tolled and its use declined dramatically when Sir Lowry’s Pass was opened in 1830. Colonel Holloway was a member of the Royal Engineers and led the contingent of British soldiers who constructed the pass carrying his name. Jan Joubertsgat bridge is the oldest road bridge in South Africa that is still in use and is a declared Provincial Heritage Site. It is named after Jan Joubert who is said to have been killed in an accident at the bridge during the late 19th century.
17 & 31 July
Mushroom Month at Babylonstoren Venue: Babylonstoren Farm Shop. Time: 10h00 – 16h30. Cost: R640 per person. Reservations: reservations@ babylonstoren.com
Mondays & Thursdays Iyengar-style yoga classes
at Artemis barn, 18h00-19h00. Contact Danielle on 073 388 1404.
Tuesdays
Alcoholics Anonymous Time 19h00. Venue: NG Church Consistory. Contact 021 867 0983 or 073 125 0188 (Jeffrey)
Saturdays
Franschhoek Village Market Breads, olives, ginger beer, pastries, plants, seedlings, breakfasts, coffee, crafts and more. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church Grounds. Time: 09h00 – 14h00
Church Services
Franschhoek Methodist Church Sunday service 09h00 – all welcome. Rev Nuno Vergueiro 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509. Contact person: 021 876 2510 or 083 287 5756 NG Kerk Franschhoek Sondagdienste 09h30. Geen aanddiens meer nie. Ds Peet Bester. 021 876 2431. Shofar Christian Church Sunday service 09h00. Pastor Yannis Acavalos 021 876 3348 Roman Catholic Church Mass every 2nd Saturday of the month at the Methodist Church, Bagatelle Rd, Fhk. 073 488 6816
Environment and community benefit from sensitive planning
Joytish Vedic Astrology Robert Rittel
ARIES (21 March – 19 April) Transiting Mars in Libra throws an aspect into Aries that has a lot to do with relationships and finding the balance of the senses. The quiet input of your consciousness allows you to perceive the countless opportunities for change. TAURUS (20 April – 20 May) Venus, the lord of this asterism, travels through Gemini and provides a plentitude of creative communication and artistic expressions. The ultimate question of intent is answered in the heart – have the courage to find that truth from the core of the Self. GEMINI (21 May – 20 June) With strong Venutian influences this month, it’s so easy to tell beautiful stories that can be misleading. It teaches you that the external safe space reflects your image; defend your inner sacred space with loyalty and acceptance, it is the gift of grace. CANCER (21 June – 22 July) The Sun moves into the home of the moon and wants to bring light in all aspects of the home and family. Welcome the openness where no judgment resides and trust that feeling in a heart that opens wide. LEO (23 July – 22 August) Jupiter the planet of expansion and remover of all obstacles will enter this asterism for a year and provides opportunities to embrace all possibilities. Dream and think big, to the point that it scares you. Hope stands with an open door, inviting the seeker inside. VIRGO (23 August – 22 September): Mercury is retrograding this month and the winged communicator of the heavens will play his tricks. Changing your mind is no problem, changing it too often creates insecurity that dwells within. Follow the truth of your personal experience and claim your authority. LIBRA (23 September – 22 October) Mars, the warrior of the truth, cycles with the seasons that mark your change, so
that the rebirth of your vision becomes the spirit you have claimed. Here truth is the victor of the war that dwells within; embrace the celebration of brave deeds great and small. SCORPIO (23 October – 21 November) Is it time to adopt the attitude of a happy heart when you accomplish your daily task? If you choose to, the happy heart brings honor to every act you perform. The word sacrifice means ‘to make sacred’, and is an honor to your Self. SAGITTARIUS (22 November – 21 December) Justice can teach you how it feels to be the recipient of another person’s blame. Divine justice is the free will given to all; with the choices you carry the burden of weighing the balance of your personal wrongs and right. CAPRICORN (22 December – 19 January) The rebellion of the human spirit against other determined laws or codes that look for punishment, without exceptions or compassion, have brought countless civilizations and religions to their knees. Everything that you do to another will be experienced inside you. AQUARIUS (20 January – 18 February) The water-bearer has to choose and maintain the dignity of their inner peace, and that is why we call them the faithful and the peacemakers. Be confident with the wisdom you carry – it is the medicine for all. PISCES (19 February - 20 March) With Jupiter in a strong position a good year is secured for Pisces. Listening to the whispers that come through time and space, the silent spirit is waiting to claim the inspiration of your desires. Travel in your mind, or go to places that are in your dreams.
For consultation please write to robert.vedicastrolology@gmail.com or call 073 312 1265
The reconstruction of the main road between Groot Drakenstein and Wemmershoek won Jeffares & Green the prestigious 1997 Bob Laburn Award for their contribution to environmental awareness in civil engineering. The project sought both to preserve the historic cultural landscape of the Cape wine farms created by the French Huguenots and to involve the local community in its planning and implementation. Environmental concerns included the preservation of historic farm gateways, hedges, tree avenues, river scenes and the rural character of the area. Initially many in the Franschhoek community had reservations about the upgrading of the road fearing that it would detract from the traditional rural character of the area. The public participation process included a number of meetings with interested and affected parties including landowners, ratepayers, the municipality, the Franschhoek
Useful Numbers
ACCOUNTANTS 021 876 2676 Tax Shop ATTORNEYS 021 876 2592 / 072 402 9469 Susan Charlesworth Attorney BURGLAR ALARMS 021 876 3308 Pepler Alarms CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS 021 876 3031 Boland Bridge Club 082 557 0278 Franschhoek Tennis Club 021 876 3460 Franschhoek Valley Conservation Trust 021 874 1906 Grt. Drak. Games Club 021 876 3775 Lions 021 876 4178 Rate Payers’ Association 072 211 9991 Stellenbosch Masonic Lodge (Chris) 082 773 9217 Franschhoek Rotary Club 021 876 3179 Franschhoek Probus Club 021 876 3179 Franschhoek Bowling Club COMPUTER SERVICES 082 356 0226 Franschhoek IT Services 084 015 8808 Solid IT Solutions ELECTRICAL 082 823 7119 / 021 876 3640 Franschhoek Electric 021 876 2120 / 083 309 2923 Rensburg Electrical EXCAVATIONS 021 876 4431 / 082 972 5755 Andrew Schmidt 072 340 8518 Burger Excavations HEALTH & BEAUTY 021 876 2261 Franschhoek Pharmacy 021 876 2218 Salon Excelsior 021 876 3310 Franschhoek Health Club HOUSE & GARDEN 028 840 1716 Clock Repairs 021 876 3640 Lighting & Accessories 021 872 0747 / 083 658 4944 Paarl Pools 021 876 2612 / 072 347 5355 Ria Pools (Franschhoek) INTERNET ACCESS 021 876 4741 Internet Café 021 876 3025 PostNet OPTOMETRIST 021 872 3530 Marelise Bester PHOTOGRAPHIC 021 876 4741 Franschhoek Photolab PHYSIOTHERAPIST 021 876 4234 / 082 582 1029 Claire Horn PLUMBERS 021 876 3759 Franschhoek Plumbing PUBLIC SERVICES 021 876 3085 Hospice 021 808 8406 Library
Trinity Church Franchhoek Sunday 10h00. Fr Gavin Mitchell 083 799 0726. All Services are held at L’Ermitage Hotel Chapel in Franschhoek. Anglican Church St George’s Church, Groot Drakenstein. Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Rector Fr Joe Humbles – 021 874 1120 New Apostolic Church Le Roux Weg, Franschhoek Sundays 09h00, Wednesdays 19h30 Rector: Charles Leibrandt
Sport
FHK Cycling Club Outrides Regular road ride on Saturdays to Stellenbosch and back followed by coffee. (MTBs also welcome). Venue: Meet at BP garage. Time: 08h00. Contact: Paul Barkley 083 302 9096
Franschhoek Tennis Club Social tennis is played at the Franschhoek Tennis Club on Fridays from 08h30 and on Sundays and Public Holidays from 09h00. During June, July and August starting times are 30 mins later. For more information contact 021 876 4184.
July 1998
Trust and local schools. The community requested the consultants to adjust the alignment to preserve scenic features of the old road such as trees of high aesthetic and cultural value and to replant the hedges of ‘dog roses’, a traditional part of the Franschhoek landscape. A footpath was provided for the safety of school children of Lubeck School. Over 1 500 trees were planted as well as about 5 000 shrubs. These included both indigenous plants such as rooiels, yellowwood, Cape ash and wild olive and naturally appropriate exotic vegetation such as Turkey oak, pin oak and swamp cypress. In certain places trees were planted on one side of the road only to allow tourists to enjoy the mountain view. It will take several years before these trees and hedges mature and the full effect of the landscaping along the road can be appreciated.
021 808 8700 Municipality (Office Hours) 021 808 8890/1 Municipality 24 hr Service 021 876 2532 Museum 021 876 2342 Post Office 021 876 2670 Welfare (ACVV) 021 876 4808 SPCA SCHOOLS 021 874 8100 Bridge House School 021 876 2079 Franschhoek High School 021 876 2448 Groendal Primary School 021 876 2211 Groendal Secondary School 021 876 2360 Wes-Eind Primary School 021 876 3957 Dalubuhle Primary School STORAGE 021 876 2174 Franschhoek Storage TOURIST INFORMATION & SERVICES 021 876 3603 Info Office 021 876 4042 Winelands Experience TRANSPORT GOODS 021 876 2440 / 082 821 5234 Gerald Fourie VETERINARY 021 876 2504 Surgery (pm only) 021 876 4278 Huguenot Animal Clinic 082 577 9900 Emergency EMERGENCY NUMBERS 021 808 8888 Fire Rescue 10111 / 021 876 8061 Police 086 003 7566 Eskom 082 374 2949 Neighbourhood Watch 021 852 3318 Omnipage Farm Watch 021 876 2346 Plaaswag DENTISTS 021 876 3070 Dr Schalk du Plessis 021 876 2634 Dr Rob Hammer 021 876 4320 Dr Servaas de Kock DOCTORS 021 876 4622 Dr Tracey Garner 021 871 1063 Dr Shelley Hellig 021 876 2474 Dr Alexander Heywood 021 876 2304 Dr Hannes Van der Merwe EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONSE 074 363 7744 / 021 876 4316 Medicare EMR MUNICIPALITY (Ward 1) Councillor Frazenburg (DA) 021 808 8490 (Ward 2) Councillor Ntsunguzi (ANC) 021 808 8754 (Ward 3) Councillor August (DA) 021 808 8186 (Ward 4) Councillor Johnson (DA) 021 808 8019 Municipality (afternoon only) 021 808 8890 Municipality 24hr Service 021 808 8700
July 2014
THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER
Rawson sceptical about the benefits of ‘next time’s’ MPC interest rate hike Although the demand in the South African residential sector is strong enough to ensure that ‘a reasonable flow’ of sales is maintained in the residential property market over the coming year, if, as the Governor of the Reserve Bank, Gill Marcus, has hinted, will probably be the case, the Reserve Bank does react to high inflation rates by raising the repo rate at the next MPC meeting, the overall growth in the economy will inevitably be reduced, says Bill Rawson, Chairman of the Rawson Property Group. At this point in South Africa’s history, he says, the country simply cannot afford to let this happen. “The Statistics SA figures released on 27 May,” said Rawson, “showed that the seasonally adjusted real GDP at market prices for the first quarter of 2014 decreased by an annualised rate of 0.6 percent. This is obviously disappointing after the 3% plus growth achieved in the fourth quarter of last year and many high level economists have said that in their view the South African Reserve Bank’s entire focus should now be not on curbing inflation but on restoring
South Africa to real growth. Some have even gone so far as to say that the raising of the interest rates will have minimal effect on inflation because, as I have pointed out, the main drivers of inflation these days are not reckless spending by consumers but the unavoidably high fuel, electricity, food and municipal rates costs coupled with what many think are very generous public sector wage increases.” He and many others with whom he consults on these matters, explained Rawson, are inclined to believe that whether or not the interest rate is raised by early 2015, the inflation rates will again have fallen below the 6% level and, he added, some commentators have even suggested that the raising of the rates will not in itself be an effective measure to protect the rand value, which apparently is one of the South African Reserve Bank’s declared aims. “It is very unlikely to happen,” said Rawson, “but if the South African Reserve Bank did hold rates at their current levels for the forthcoming future that would, I believe, be the right move.
Val de Vie announces big expansion
Aerial view of Val de Vie with Simonsberg in the background
The award-winning Val de Vie Estate is set to expand, following the acquisition of two adjoining properties. In the first transaction Val de Vie acquired a portion of the farm Kliprug, belonging to neighbouring Pearl Valley Golf & Country Estate. In addition to further property development opportunities this acquisition will also give Val de Vie residents direct access to Pearl Valley’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Pearl Valley will retain 20ha of the land, allowing for the development of an additional 150 stands within the existing Estate. The remaining 322 hectares of undeveloped land, originally used for clay mining, has approved rights for 1 094 residences, which includes farms, as well as single and multiple unit residential opportunities. The development will be incorporated into Val de Vie in phases over the next 10 years, starting early next year. The second transaction saw Val de Vie purchase the 93 hectare Levendal Development, on the opposite bank of the Berg River, from the Power Development Group. The transaction took more than nine years to complete, and includes an extensive range of residential and some commercial opportunities. It also enables Val de Vie, as owners of land on both sides of the Berg River, to construct a bridge over the river for the exclusive use of residents of both estates. This will link the estates with the R45, reducing the journey into the Stellenbosch CBD to 20 minutes and allowing quicker access to the N1; with an estimated 20-minute trip to Cape Town International Airport
and under 30 minutes to the V&A Waterfront. More than 75% of the new Val de Vie development will be allocated as green areas, to be utilised for vineyards, nature conservation, lakes, horse paddocks, parks and farmland. The original plan of including another golf course at Pearl Valley has been scrapped. Both estates will retain their separate Homeowners’ Associations and stringent security measures. Roads and security gatehouses linking the two estates will be the first project to commence, and will enable Val de Vie residents taking up Pearl Valley Non-Resident Golf Memberships, to access Pearl Valley’s golf facilities by golf cart. Martin Venter CEO and founder of the Val de Vie Development Company sums it up: “Val de Vie and Pearl Valley have each built strong international brands. The expansion of Val de Vie will result in a luxury residential node with diverse offerings, multiple exits and access to two provincial roads, the R301 and R45. With developments planned on either side of the fence, Val de Vie and Pearl Valley will together create a lifestyle village that includes polo, golf, mountain biking, other sports and wine; unsurpassed in scale and choice anywhere in South Africa.” The Val de Vie Development Company has also committed to strengthening communities in the area by establishing the Val de Vie Foundation. A small portion of the monthly levy income and percentage of all sales will go towards supporting local community programmes, with an emphasis on education and children’s programmes.
Seeff Boland, Winelands and West Coast rakes in the awards Seeff ’s operations across the Winelands, Boland and West Coast have once again come out tops in their agent and branch awards for the past year. “Through commitment and dedication, we have grown our turnover and market share tremendously over the past few years,” said managing director for the areas, Pierre Germishuys. “We have a wonderful group of agents who are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcome for sellers and buyers. From residential sales and rentals to commercial and agricultural sales and rentals, our agents have shone as top achievers over the past year. We now have 46 agents with offices in Worcester, Ceres, Tulbagh, Franschhoek, Paarl, Wellington, Stellenbosch, Croydon, Vredenburg, Langebaan and Lamberts Bay.” The following Seeff agents and staff were awarded at Seeff ’s annual regional agent awards held on 30 May 2014 at the Langebaan Country Estate: Sales Agent of the Year (Highest Rand Value) – Melina Visser (Franschhoek), Sales Agent of the Year (Highest Units Sold) – Nelia Retief (Tulbagh), Sales Agent of the Year (Highest Commission %) – Marelize Huysamen (Langebaan), Rookie Agent of the Year – Hettie Denysschen (Stellenbosch), Rental Agent of the Year – Elmarie Esterhuizen
(Worcester), Admin Person of the Year – Pamela Prins (Paarl), Office of the Year – Franschhoek At the annual Seeff National Awards, also held at the end of May, at the Arabella Hotel & Spa the Winelands, Boland and West Coast offices again shone by winning: Marketer of the Year – 3 Awards – Franschhoek, Paarl and Tulbagh, Interior and Exterior Branding – 2 Awards – Franschhoek and Stellenbosch “We pride ourselves on being a team of winners,” continued Germishuys. “Our Client Satisfaction Survey shows scores of about 90% on all critical points of service including communication, timeous response, knowledge and expertise, attention to needs, problem handling and overall client service. On the quality of our service in relation to other agencies worked with, our clients scored Seeff as better while 92,5% indicated that we had earned our commission.” “An overwhelming 100% of our clients indicated that they feel comfortable in recommending Seeff to other clients and their friends. What our clients liked best is our friendly and personal service, attention to needs, problem resolution, professionalism and expertise – all the qualities needed from a top real estate agency.” 021 876 4592 | www.seeff.com.
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Franschhoek Agents Bring Home Gold It is with great pride that we recently honoured our top performing agents outstanding achievements at our National Annual Conference at Arabella Country Estate at the end of May. GoldClub status is awarded to those agents who have achieved and maintained a consistently high level of service excellence and adhered to the strictest principles of ethical conduct. They have also contributed outstanding efforts to real estate, far greater than the expected norm and shown the utmost pride in their profession, resulting in sales worth millions of rands within a specific time period.
Doug Gurr and Shelly Schoeman of Franschhoek, awarded 3rd Place both Nationally and Regionally in the GoldClub B Category. Photographed with Group CE, Dr Andrew Golding and Regional Head, Annien Borg
Doug, Shelly and Jeanine Allen, runners-up for the Highest Units sold in the Boland & Overberg Region. Photographed with Richard Day.
Franschhoek Branch Manager, Surina du Toit, receiving the award for National Small Branch of the Year on behalf of the Franshhoek team. Photographed with Group General Manager, Richard Day.
Cream of the Crop – The Boland & Overberg’s GoldClub achievers for 2014.
tel: 021 876 2100 winelandsint@pamgolding.co.za
www.pamgolding.co.za/franschhoek
July 2014
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Fine & Country Franschhoek
PO Box 315, Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa Tom: +27 (0)79 955 3114, tomc@fineandcountry.com Terry-Lee: +27 (0)82 650 9194, terryg@fineandcountry.com
July 2014
Tel/Fax: +27 (0)21 876 3322