Franschhoek Tatler - March 2024

The Bag That Builds

Skytram Information Day

The proposed Franschhoek Skytram hosted an open house information session at the Dutch Reformed Church Hall on Thursday, 15 February 2024. Posters with details of the proposed development, including scaled conceptual 3D designs, and the environmental findings were displayed, while the Environmental Assessment Practitioner and relevant specialists were available to answer the public’s questions regarding the proposed development.

head.

At the heart of the pilot project is a technology developed by the Center for Regenerative Design & Collaboration (CRDC). The technology allows plastic to be converted into an eco-additive – RESIN8 –that is added to concrete in the manufacturing of structural and other concrete products.

Franschhoek Skytram’s lower station is proposed to be set into the landscape above the dam on Haute Cabrière Wine Estate, while the upper station is near the top of Middagkrans Peak in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. The proposed amenities at the lower station include walkways around the dam, a deli, a village green, office space, ablutions and a partly-submerged pergola-covered three-level parking garage.

Replacing up to 20% of natural aggregates with RESIN8 in concrete product manufacture has several advantages: It improves the performance characteristics of concrete products, reduces the amount of quarried material used in the concrete and removes plastic waste from the environment. Best of all, all seven types of plastic can be converted into RESIN8 and it doesn’t have to be clean to be used.

The upper station is proposed to comprise a wine tasting centre serving Franschhoek wines, restaurant and souvenir shop, heritage and environment information display and a separate adventure centre and paragliding launching area. Walkways are to connect the various amenities and link to a new hiking trail that will link to the existing network in the nature reserve. The two stations will be linked by two cables of 1 179m in length, each carrying a cable car designed for 80 persons.

take part in the pilot programme.

impact of particularly the upper station and the socio-economic impacts or benefits of the proposal. Proponents generally argued that impacts could be sufficiently mitigated and are worth it based on the projected socio-economic benefits.

The pilot programme will run for three months from 1 January 2023 as part of a larger cleaning and recycling effort that is coordinated by members of the Franschhoek Heritage and Ratepayers Association (FHRPA). Current initiatives include the privatelyfunded clean-up crew that cleans areas that are outside municipal jurisdiction or that need extra cleaning, the installation (and servicing) of refuse bins where they are lacking and monthly community clean-ups.

The open house passed in an orderly fashion, although a nervous energy could be felt and it was clear that proponents of the project were in the minority – an observation borne out by informal surveys of residents. A small group of local Patriotic Alliance members protested against the project on the stoep outside the hall.

CRDC SA has a processing plant in Cape Town from where the local leg of a global programme titled ‘The Bag That Builds’ is being rolled out. The programme is named after the distinctive green bags that are used to collect plastics for recycling.  Individuals and companies are rewarded per bag of plastic they collect, making it a simple way for anyone to earn a small income while improving the environment. A collection drive in the Langrug community has already led to the coining of the phrase ‘pick up your money’ to inspire residents to

Irmela Alberts, co-chair of the FHRPA says “We’re excited by both the environmental and economic opportunities this pilot programme presents for the valley. Our challenge now is to find ways to make it sustainable, so that the pilot programme can become a permanent one. We will keep the Franschhoek Valley cleaner, send significantly less rubbish to the landfill and through the involvement of the local schools contribute to creating a mindset where people litter less”

Local social media channels were abuzz with arguments for and against the proposal. Opponents of the scheme focused their concerns on the traffic impact on an already busy main road, the visual

For more information or if you have any form of plastic that you want to get rid of feel free to contact Jocelyn at 073 587 6132.

The current public participation round closes on 20 March, where after the Environmental Assessment Practitioner and specialists will respond to comments in a Comments and Responses Report. Amendments may be made to the project in the light of comments received. The pre-application BAR will then be updated into a draft BAR and the draft EMPr will also be updated. A further 30-day public participation process will follow, anticipated for April 2024.

Continuedonp2...

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

edge plant in Cape Town to be turned into

Scaled 3D conceptualisation of the proposed Franschhoek Skytram showing the cable car and the upper and lower cableway stations.

Cross Crusade

Patrick Styles (62) is crisscrossing the country with a large wooden cross spreading the word of God and raising awareness of farm murders. He also prays for rain in drought-afflicted areas.

On Friday, 26 January 2024, his latest crusade had him crossing the Franschhoek Pass and descending into the valley where he found a bit of respite for a few days before continuing again. Patrick shared his testimony in the Dutch Reformed Church during the service on Sunday, 28 January 2024. Patrick says he started his crusades approximately 10 years ago after experiencing a revelation and breakthrough in his religious life. That was the start of his walks, the first of which took him from Rustenburg to Potchefstroom. Since then he has covered thousands of kilometres all around the country and has also visited Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Eswatini. His current crusade started in Carltonville. He walks between 40 and 50kms daily.

In all the years he’s been walking with his cross he’s only ever had to sleep next to the road for one night. Good Samaritans have always offered Patrick a place to sleep and meals. Often news of his imminent arrival in an area is spread via social media. In this regard, Niels Nilsson, whom he met in Hopefield in 2019 has been of particular value. During his Franschhoek visit, Patrick stayed with Ryno de Kock in La Ferme Chantelle and was offered meals by Bootlegger Franschhoek.

Patrick’s cross weighs about 70kg and is approximately 3m long and 2m wide. Its trailing end rests on an axle with two bicycle wheels to which a steel chest is mounted that houses the few possessions he takes with him on his crusades –

including two spare tyres. Where the cross rests on his shoulder some sponge padding softens the load. Between the crusades, Patrick spends a few months at home with his wife.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

A Vintage Bicycle Bevy

It’s not unusual to find a group of cyclists having coffee or breakfast at a village caffeine stop. Eagle-eyed Bootlegger patrons might however have noticed something different about the group of cyclists that enjoyed breakfast there on Sunday, 4 February. They were all riding vintage steel and aluminium bicycles.

The group, all members of the Cape Vintage Bicycle Club, arranged to ride from Brackenfell to Franschhoek (105 km return). Thys Oosthuizen, the owner of the local bicycle hire venture ‘Louer un Velo’, arranged for them to replenish their energy levels at Bootlegger. To add interest to the outing he arranged that each participant with a 30-yearold or older bike would receive a free coffee with their breakfast.

Bicycle aficionados would have been impressed by the range of bikes that could be seen during the ride. Italian brands, such as Tommasini and Bianchi, were particularly well represented, but the star was arguably a rare South African-made Hansom. The winner of the Best Bicycle award (whose owner received a free breakfast) was Alwyn de Kock’s Bianchi. (Alwyn is the owner of Flandria Bicycles in Stellenbosch.)

Proving what a difference a bit of thought and a few arrangements can make, the number of participants in the ride increased from 12 to 40 overnight once these arrangements were shared with club members. The group must have enjoyed their Franschhoek ride as they are already discussing a picnic ride in the near future.

“Franschhoek has so much to offer”, says Thys, “we just have to package it creatively to keep attracting visitors.” To this end, he is working on a number of imaginative offerings for both serious and not-soserious cyclists. Watch this space, as they say! Thys’ own collection of vintage bicycles is housed

A group of vintage bicycle owners undertook a breakfast run from Brackenfell to Franschhoek on Sunday, 4 February.

at Louer un Velo’s Fabriek Street premises. Vintage bicycle enthusiasts will be happy to know that they are available for hire. In Thys’ words, “It’s an opportunity to roll back the years while clocking up a few kilometres down memory lane!”

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

Skytram Information Day

...Continuedfromp1

All comments received on the draft BAR and updated EMPr will be responded to in an updated Comments and Responses Report. The draft BAR and EMPr will then be updated into a final BAR and EMPr which will be submitted to the national Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment for decision-making in July/August 2024. All registered Interested and Affected Parties may expect to be notified of the decision and then have 20 days to appeal the decision.

The land use planning application process in terms of the Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act and Municipal Planning ByLaw formally commenced in January 2024 with the public participation process likely to commence in March 2024.

Commissioning and construction is expected to take 18-24 months from final statutory approvals.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Franschhoek Skytram

hand crafted gifts & furniture in a creative retail space

whatsapp +27 71 1470757 • handmadelife.co.za

26 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek, 7690 facebook & instagram : @handmadelife.shop

Market Matters

The Franschhoek Village Market is a popular place for visitors and locals to meet and spend some time over the weekend. Despite being an institution in the village few locals seem to know much about how it operates. The Tatler put a few pertinent questions to them.

When did the market start and who are the owners?

Franschhoek Market was started 15 years ago by the Dutch Reformed Church. Elsuna (Malherbe) Nel has been the owner of the market since 2016. Elsuna’s family has been farming in Franschhoek for five generations.

Is the market a legitimate business?

The Franschhoek Village Market is a registered business like any other. Like other businesses, we pay rent for our premises, VAT and Income Tax. We are proud members of Franschhoek Wine Valley and the Street Security Initiative.

We have authorisation from Stellenbosch Municipality to operate as an event and we have a legitimate liquor license. We undergo monthly health and safety inspections by the relevant authorities and we strictly observe the terms of the Western Cape Liquor Board and our rental agreement.

How are traders selected?

We have a very strict policy to keep the market and its offerings at a high standard. Products must be authentic, of high quality and handcrafted.  Our policy gives preference to our Franschhoek locals and businesses to trade. As many as 26 businesses have traded in the past, but for various reasons, have decided not to continue. Fifteen local businesses and residents are currently trading at the market. We protect traders by only allowing 1 or at most 2 stalls selling similar products. Unfortunately, we have had to refuse great applications over the years (including applicants from Franschhoek) to protect our current traders.

How does the market give back to the community?

We support many local NGOs from time to time and we give the opportunity to organizations to trade at no cost to generate funds. In this way, for example, Fleur de Lis, SPCA and Hospice have benefited. For many years we have also taken part in the Santa Shoebox project in the local community. When there are fires in the area we team up with the Winelands Fire Protection Association to collect water and energy drinks for firefighters. We also employ 10 workers from the local area every weekend.

How does the market contribute to the

economy of Franschhoek?

We promote the market and Franschhoek as a tourist attraction every week. The market is a popular destination for tourists. Our experience is that visitors spend on average less than an hour at the market and then spill on to the main road. We are proud to say that visitors support not only the traders at the market but all businesses and restaurants in town. We support the entrepreneurial spirit and the right for businesses of all types and sizes to exist. The business with the best product and service will be the most successful. This success will benefit all the businesses in town. We are proud that the market attracts around 4,000 visitors to Franschhoek on weekends.

What is your vision for the market’s future?

It will always be a priority that the market must be an asset to Franschhoek and a place where locals and visitors meet. We strive to maintain and upgrade the offerings at the market constantly and we trust that, as always, the whole of Franschhoek will benefit from this.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

Patrick Stiles at the top of the Franschhoek Pass with his cross.

Local Afro-Pop Musician Awarded

Mphozisi Qalekiso, best known as ‘Mpho’, is an unsigned Afro Pop singer and songwriter who lives in Langrug, Franschhoek. On 17 February 2024, he won the best Afro Pop artist category at the 6th annual Eastern Cape Music Awards.

Mpho matriculated in Paarl in 2015 and has dedicated his time to the field of entertainment and helping kids who want to enter the performing arts scene. He works at Dalubuhle Primary School for the Click Foundation and Franschhoek Literary Festival as the Reading Eggs & Library Facilitator. He is also a member of the management of Franschhoek Sinothando Arts and Culture.

He was nominated in two categories, Artist of the Year and Best Afro Pop. His winning song in the Afro Pop category is called “S’yanqanda”, meaning ‘to prevent’ and deals with gender-based violence.

“I can say that the song is very close to my heart, as it is a song that I deeply relate to. I wrote the song after an incident in 2015 during which a gun was pointed at me and I was beaten by a stranger who then raped my ex-girlfriend in my presence. I released this song as a cry for help for all GBV victims out there, this Award is for them.”

Mpho would like to build his brand as a musician around Franschhoek and change lives through his singing and songwriting.

He can be reached at 063 639 8850 or mphozisiq@ gmail.com

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: ECMA

‘Ek het ‘n Engel gesien’ Bekendstelling

Amore Bekker, die bekende voormalige RSG aanbieder, het op 19 Februarie 2024 haar nuutste boek in Franschhoek bekendgestel. Die boek, getiteld ‘Ek het ‘n Engel gesien’, is ‘n versameling stories wat deur luisteraars ingestuur is nadat Amore luisteraars versoek het om hul ontmoetings met engele te deel. “Die terugvoering was oorweldigend,” sê sy. “En met elke storie was die versoek, ‘Sit dit vir ons in ‘n boek, asseblief’.” Toe doen sy dit.

Tydens die bekendstelling in die NG Kerk was Amore in gesprek met nog ‘n voormalige radioaanbieder (en Franschhoeker) Helen Naudé.

“Dié boek is gevul met diep menslike ervarings van hoogs geestelike wesens vanuit elke uithoek van ons land… Van gevaarlike paaie en traumatiese ongelukstonele tot pediatriese sale en intensiewesorg eenhede… Van die verpletterde ma wat langs haar dogter se ongelukstoneel gehelp is deur drie onsigbare vroue in hoëhakskoene en die wanhopige pasiënt wie se oorlede ouma ‘n leërskare engele na haar bed toe gelei het tot die geheimsinnige vertroosting van ‘n wit veer op ‘n tafel in ‘n industriële gebied sonder bome of voëls.”

Amore haal ‘n wyse man aan oor die verhale: “Dit wat ons kan tel, tel glad nie; dit wat ons nie kan tel nie, is al wat tel.”

Die boek is geïllustreer deur die Durbanse kunstenaar, Deirdre Schoultz. Haar eteriese tekeninge voeg ‘n dimensie van intrige en misterie by die roerende verhale.

“Ek het ‘n Engel gesien’ is plaaslik by Wordsworth Franschhoek beskikbaar teen R240.

Teks en Foto: Redaksie

Mphozisi Qalekiso shows off his Eastern Cape Music Award.

Helen Naudé en Amore Bekker

Franschhoek Wine Valley

La Bri Chardonnay 2022

Fruity and expressive, this wine entices with notes of white pear and peach, leading to a creamy balanced palate all offset against a backdrop of a crisp acidity with a sweetsour finish Cellar door price: R180

T 021 876 2593

E irene@labri.co.za

Deux Lions’ Pan-fried kingklip, crushed potato & shrimp salad, with tomato, sweetcorn and olive vinaigrette and pak choi

Ingredients

4 portions fresh kingklip, 180g – 200g each;

2 x lime zest and freshly squeezed juice

2 x tbl spoon olive oil

4 x whole pak choi, cut in half, lengthways

1 & half tbl spoon butter

Ingredients: Crushed potato & shrimp salad

3 large potatoes, pre-boiled and chilled, skin on 400g shrimps

2 tbl spoons olive oil

1 small bunch spring onions, thinly sliced

Ingredients: Tomato, sweetcorn & olive vinaigrette

2 x medium size ripe firm tomatoes 100g calamata olives, pitted and roughly chopped

1 large sweetcorn (pre – blanched) cut from the cob 60ml olive oil

1 tbl spoon white wine vinegar

Method to prepare fish

In a bowl, add olive oil, the finely zested lime and its juice and mix. Add the kingklip, please ensure the kingklip is evenly covered with the mixture, add salt and pepper, cover and allow to marinade for 30 minutes. In a medium hot to high heat large pan, add a dash of olive oil and butter. Once the butter starts turning light brown, add the fish, and allow to fry together with the pak choi, flat side down. Once fish and pak choi turned golden brown, flip over, turn down the heat and gently continue to cook fish until cooked on the point. It can also be finished in pre-heated oven at 160 degrees. Please keep in mind that the pak choi should still be firm to soft (al dente) Tip: to know when the fish is cooked, use the tip of a knife, and gently try to pierce the fish, when the tip of the knife goes through the fish, It’s an indication that the fish is cooked. Put aside, and allow the fish and pak choi to rest, on a lukewarm surface

Method: Potato & shrimp salad

Peel the pre-boiled potatoes. Once peeled, place in a large enough bowl, use the back a fork, and gently crush the cooked potatoes, and set aside. In a medium heated pot, add a dash of olive oil, and the shrimps and gently cook for about 1 minute. Add the crushed potatoes and thinly sliced spring onions. Stir gently, until thoroughly mixed, season with salt and freshly grinded pepper. Put aside and a lukewarm surface.

Method: Tomato, sweetcorn, and olive vinaigrette

Bring water to a bowl, place tomatoes to blanch until the skin loosen, place blanched tomatoes in a bowl of iced water, to allow tomatoes to cool down. Peel tomatoes, cut into quarters and remove it’s seed pulp. Roughly chop the tomato flesh, (concassé style) place in a mixing bowl, add olives, and sweetcorn, add olive oil, vinegar, and mix through. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Assemble the crushed potato salad on a dinner plate, place kingklip and pak choi, and drizzle the tomato, sweetcorn & olive vinaigrette around, garnish with basil leaves, or lemon thyme sprigs, serve!

T 021 876 3245

E reservations@deuxlions.za.com

As we make way for March, let’s hold onto the last of the summer rays, find plentiful reasons for a shared toast and worry about too much chocolate…in April.

Easter arrives a tad earlier this year, and the end of March invites jubilant celebrations and a welcome overdose of all things chocolate. Our Valley Of Dreams comes alive with partner restaurants and wine farms hosting special events and menus to

What are the Franschhoek Wine Valley Member Benefits?

Benefits may vary based on membership type and category, and are subject to change as a result of ongoing management decisions.

Marketing:

- Management and Custodianship of the FWV Brand.

- Free directory listings in official FWV marketing publications.

- Free descriptive listing on the FWV website, including photo gallery and contact details.

- Use of the FWV logo on publicity material – subject to approval of FWV.

- Updated digital brochures.

- Display brochures at tourist information centres.

- Participation in FWV festivals & events.

- Organisation and promotion of festivals & events, attracting visitors to the Valley.

- Press releases and media campaigns promoting the Franschhoek Wine Valley.

- Liaison with Wesgro and CWDM for coordination of international media visits.

- Newsclip monitoring service to measure the value of FWV media campaigns.

- Research and statistical analysis, surveys to improve customer service.

- Representation at local and international trade shows.

- Social Media marketing – guides and giveaways, Facebook,Twitter,YouTube, and TikTok.

- Opportunities in selected publications, e.g. newspaper features.

Services:

- Membership Forums, quarterly presentations, and networking sessions on value-add topics, e.g. fraud prevention in your business, the importance of digital marketing, “green” grading for accommodation establishments, etc.

- Digital members' newsletter, with organisational, industry & regulatory news.

- Safety and security for our visitors.

- Participation in specialist groups (e.g. wine Ambassadors & member sector meetings).

- Staff training opportunities, e.g. wine steward and hospitality training, sales training for cellar door staff.

For more information about becoming a Franschhoek Wine Valley member, please email us at

WHAT WE’RE PROUD OF

Since 2018, the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy has been sponsoring two students annually to attend a two-year bursary program at the International Tourism and Management College in Austria, aiming to advance their studies. The selection process for these students is rigorous, focusing not only on academic excellence but also on possessing a positive attitude towards themselves and others.The chosen candidates serve as ambassadors for the Academy in Austria, embodying dedication, passion, discipline, and respect.Thus far, the Academy has sent twelve students to the ITM College, including Babalo Phitshana and Jodine Korkee, who successfully completed their studies in 2018 and have since returned to South Africa, where they are now employed full-time in managerial positions.The Academy has recently chosen the next two students, Jason Williams and Dillon Samuels,

who will depart in September of this year. Both Jason and Dillon were part of our class of 2023 and are currently employed at Rickety Bridge and Plaisir Wine Estate, respectively. Jason serves as a Commis Chef in the kitchen, while Dillon works in the Tasting room as a Wine Ambassador. We extend our best wishes to them and are confident they will excel in this extraordinary opportunity!

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO

Franschhoek Literary Festival

17 - 19 May 2024

Imagine streets buzzing with book lovers, creating a vibrant ambience as they move between a variety of village venues all within walking distance of each other.

The FLF provides a platform for open and progressive discourse with participation from renowned local and international authors and thought leaders. Informal discussions are the hallmark of the festival with spirited debates on a variety of topical issues. Not forgetting the lighter, inspirational and fun sessions guaranteed to stimulate the senses.

Find out more: www.flf.co.za

Cellar Chat

Mark Tanner

How true it is that history so often repeats itself. It seems that the history of wine is no stranger to such an occurrence. Back in the early days, and I mean such as pre-Roman times, wines in what is now Georgia were made by simple means. Pressed juices were placed in huge earthenware jars called Quevri lined with beeswax and sunk into the ground right up to the top. A lid was closed and the wine was left to virtually make itself. A month or so later the resulting tipple was decanted. Red grapes make ‘black’ wine and white makes ‘amber’ or ‘orange’ wine.

This method and the resultant wines are still being made today, one just has to know where to look for it. If we fast forward from 3000 BC to Imperial Rome we find a repeat. The Romans used an identical method using clay pots called ‘dolia’ and produced what is today regarded as a range of rather exotic wines, not only red (black) and white (amber). With the addition of flavourings such as honey and herbs, the wines were somewhat aromatic and probably boasted aromas of toasted bread and walnuts. The Romans were famed for their parties and a hedonistic approach to food and wine. Rhys Blakely, science correspondent to The Times, asserts that a hidden advantage to these wines was that they probably had a low alcohol content of around 11% compared to 12% to 13% for today’s whites.

Could a hedonistic Senator attend an orgy and find there was no hangover? No doubt the low alcohol allowed for such events to go on beyond the small hours, as often depicted by Hollywood. I wonder what the Roman equivalent of ‘one for the road’ was?

One of the latest examples of climate change with wine comes from a couple who have established a vineyard in Brittany; to be precise, in the Rance Valley on the north coast. It overlooks the English Channel. Hitherto the land was farmed for buckwheat, the main ingredient for Breton crêpes. Their wines have won praise and prizes and they join the growing number of French vignerons who are adapting to warmer weather. However, as is often the case, when one finds success in

one department one can find disappointment in another. Consider Bordeaux in France’s South West. There they produce what is generally accepted as some of the world’s best wines. Change is being felt there too and one wonders how they will cope. New cultivars or maybe clones of cultivars? With its ‘maritime warm’ climate Bordeaux will probably experience warmer, dryer summers with more rain in winter. This could result in bolder wines with more tannins. Experts claim that Brittany now has the same climate as the Loire Valley, 130km to the south, 50 years ago. A slow but inevitable change, so let’s hope that there will be new styles of wine to look forward to in time to come.

We are all used to reading supportive comments from wine journalists when appraising a particular wine.

When Jane McQuitty, chief wine critic of The Times, described a wine as being a “Grubby, nauseatingly sweet, overpriced horror”, what was she referring to? Aussie singer, actress and national treasure Kylie Minogue has added an alcohol-free sparkling rosé to her range of very popular wines.

If you consider that Jane called Kylie’s standard rosé “horrid” her above comment might make sense. The wine has however been well received by consumers in the UK where it sells for around £6.00 (ZAR 130) at supermarkets. With a turnover of £9 million a year, Kylie doesn’t seem to mind Jane’s remarks, probably taking comfort from her huge hit, “I should be so lucky”.

Cheers!

Vintage 2024 in the Making

The months of February and March are particularly significant to winemakers, as these months mark the change of emphasis from vineyard to cellar. As the 2024 grape harvest comes to a close, cellar masters and winemakers are buzzing with anticipation about the prospects of the new vintage.

The year leading up to this harvest presented unique challenges for local wine farms. The aftermath of floods and landslides, coupled with dry conditions verging on drought, created a complex environment for grape cultivation.

Stony Brook’s Craig McNaught shares an optimistic outlook for the 2024 harvest. “What we’ve taken into the cellar is looking fantastic. The grapes are extremely healthy, and the flavours are very promising. It looks like we’re going to have lowish alcohols in the white wines for 2024, which I see as a big plus point. At the end of the day, this usually leads to brighter wines with more elegance and poise.”

DP Burger from GlenWood Vineyards acknowledges the challenges faced during the 2024 harvest. “The yields were low… very low even compared to the second lowest industry harvest of 2023. The floods and strong South Easterly winds in September 2023 are my ‘reasons’ for the light yields. Nevertheless, the quality of the grapes was fantastic, and we are looking at some intense Chardonnays from the 2024 harvest,” states Burger. The impact of high temperatures on red cultivars is evident, with acids diminishing, necessitating a careful approach to harvesting.

Edmund Terblanche, La Motte’s cellar master, reflects on the challenges leading up to the 2024 harvest. “The winter before 2024 will be remembered for two big storms and lots of damage, literally changing the look of the valley. Against the mountains close to La Motte, the mudslide lines are difficult to miss,” he says. Despite the obstacles, La Motte’s vineyards have shown resilience, with a 15% higher yield than 2023 reported in the first blocks harvested. The quality looks promising and the winemaking team faces the challenge of a potentially condensed harvest.

Despite facing floods, winds, and intense heat, Tim Hoek, cellar master at Haute Cabrière, expresses optimism and notes that the harvest started as planned but the early harvest of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay contrasts with the previous year, impressing Hoek with quality reminiscent of the outstanding 2015 vintage. However, concerns

about quantity arise, with an industry-wide drop in volume of 20% to 50%. Despite challenges, signs of a great harvest continue, offering hope for the remaining weeks.

Wildeberg, Winemag’s 2023 Winery of the Year, is well-positioned to shed light on the 2024 harvest outlook: their eclectic winemaking approach involves sourcing grapes from several locations across the Western Cape. Wildeberg’s cellar master, JD Rossouw, acknowledges the challenges of interpreting indicators and choosing the right harvest time. He emphasises that the true measure of success will only be known when the wines are ready to be tasted. The constraints on this year’s harvest promise an intriguing vintage, where quality remains paramount despite a reduction in yield due to the complex growing season.

Franschhoek’s winemakers embrace nature’s challenges and successes with resilience and anticipation. La Motte’s Edmund captures the sentiment, acknowledging the potential challenges of a condensed harvest while hinting at the possibility of a well-deserved long weekend for some winemakers at Easter, which is in March this year.

Text: Leila Shirley | Image: Wildeberg Wines

Thoughts From My Kitchen

Chantal Lascaris

Egg-ceptional

Eggs, those unassuming orbs of delight, are nature’s perfect package. They’re readily available, versatile, easy to cook and nutrient-dense.

They’re a bit like chameleons, they can adapt to any situation. From a fancy souffle’ to a creamy scrambled egg, there are endless ways you can prepare them. They’re the unsung heroes in the baking world, providing structure, richness and moisture to everything from cakes to cookies. They’re also the secret ingredient in some unexpected dishes. Think carbonara and thank the humble egg for its creamy and luxurious texture.

The egg’s nutritional benefits are impressive. Along with prawns, eggs are the only food high in cholesterol but low in saturated fat. But don’t worry, numerous recent studies have found no relationship between eating eggs and an increase in cardiovascular disease. Egg yolks are also one of the few foods that naturally contain vitamin D. Eggs contain lutein which is good for eyesight as it helps prevent age-related cataracts and muscle degeneration. Eating eggs alongside other foods helps our bodies absorb more vitamins. Adding an egg to a salad increases our absorption of vitamin E from the salad leaves.

But eggs aren’t just for eating, they’re also stars in the world of beauty and wellness. Egg white masks, once a DIY beauty secret, are now a mainstream skincare treatment, thanks to their ability to tighten pores and brighten skin.

Easter wouldn’t be the same without them. One of my happiest memories as a child was blowing out the whites and yolks from the eggs and then spending hours decorating them. We’d hang them on some dried branches in the lounge as part of our Easter decorations. A popular Easter treat are the white candy-coated eggs, replete in their carton and looking just like the real thing.

Here are 6 fun and interesting facts about eggs:

1. To tell the difference between a raw egg and a hard-boiled one, spin it. The hard-boiled eggs will spin easily, while the raw ones will wobble.

2. In one day, eggs will age more at room

temperature than one week in the fridge.

3. Storing eggs upside down makes them last longer. This prevents air pockets inside from coming into contact with the yolk, thus slowing down the ageing process.

4. Older eggs float while fresh ones sink. As an egg ages, more air penetrates through the shell, making it more buoyant.

5. Salting your eggs while they cook will draw out their moisture. So the next time you make some scrambled eggs, only salt them at the end.

6. Add a few teaspoons of white distilled vinegar to the water while boiling your egg. This neutralises the smell, without affecting the taste. It also helps stop the white from running out should the egg crack.

Let’s give thanks to the humble egg for its role in enriching our lives in more ways than one. Here’s to the egg, the unsung hero of the culinary world!

Image: Ali Raza from Pixabay

Quevri in a Georgian cellar

Wildeberg’s cellar master, JD Rossouw, inspects grapes in their cellar.

Tatler Motoring

MICHELE LUPINI

All I Ever Wanted Were Two Back Doors!

Five doors transform Jimny into a serious allrounder

Suzuki’s delightful little Jimny has always been a little legend. Born half a century back saga, Suzuki has now sold over 3 million Jimnys over five decades. Its perhaps limited Nürburgring ability and only three doors have however always made it something of an emotional choice. A toy, so to say.

Boasting contemporary cubist 4x4 looks, the little Suzuki certainly has always delivered on that go-anywhere promise. Simplistic and superbly proportioned, subtle touches add supreme style without needing to go over the top in any way.

Now that’s all changed. Squint a little and you will notice that this one’s different. Longer than usual, it’s the all-new 5-door Jimny. And that’s transformed this fun little car into something to now also be taken far more seriously. It’s a bit like some of us always wanted our two front teeth to prove we were grown up. Except all Jimny ever

wanted were these two back doors!

It’s 340 mm longer to accommodate two back doors and used all the new room in there to great effect too. Not much else has changed.

4x4 breakover remains a fine 36 degrees, ground clearance 210 mm. And there are two windows beyond the B pillar, rather than one. But that’s about it. There’s of course literally acres more space in the back and easy rear cabin access to the 50:50 split rear bench seat through those two back doors.

Up front, you’re greeted by the same cheeky cabin. It’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into this sparse but well equipped space. Fun and functional, controls sit close at hand, and Jimny packs impressive spec. From climate and cruise control to power steering, windows and mirrors, and remote central locking.

This GLX adds a leather multifunction steering wheel to run bright and cheerful Android Auto, Apple Carplay, MirrorLink, USB, SD-card and Bluetooth integrated 7” infrared-touchscreen infotainment on the dash. Neat always-lit analogue dials sit in front of the driver. Add completely adjustable and versatile fold-flat front and rear seats that allow a couple to sleep in the car.

Jimny’s biggest plus is unstoppable 4x4 ability. Phenomenal off the beaten track, its sturdy highstrength steel X-member ladder frame is triplelinked to its two solid axles. AllGrip Pro 4x4 has a

RUGBY RARITY

Following a stormy relationship with General Motors, the company he founded in 1908, William Crapo ‘Billy’ Durant left the corporation in 1920 after America’s new car market collapsed. , and took them on with his own short-lived brands that included Rugby, which was a Star by any other name. Undaunted, Durant lost no time in establishing a new corporation to take on the likes of Buick, Oldsmobile, Oakland and Chevrolet with three model lines, the premium Flint, mid-range Durant, and entry-level Star. Durant Motors started exporting the Star to markets outside of America in 1923, but for countries that were part of the British Empire the name had to be changed because the Star Motor Company of Wolverhampton had already registered the name. Consequently, Durant’s Star became known as a Rugby for affected markets, the only differences being a switch to right-hand drive and the Rugby badge. Rugbys were sold in South Africa, and in Bob

F1 FEVER

The 2024 Formula 1 season starts on Saturday 3 March in Bahrain with a whole new line-up of cars on the grid, and it is interesting to compare their looks with the cars of 50 years ago. One of the stars of the FMM collection is the Tyrrell 007 that was driven by South African Jody Scheckter in 1974. Designed by Derek Gardner, 007 (no relation!) was used in the 1974/5/6/7 seasons. The engine is a naturally-aspirated 2993cc V8 Ford-Cosworth DFV coupled with a Hewland FG400 five-speed manual gearbox. FMM’s car is chassis #1 that made its debut at the fourth round of the season, the Spanish GP on April 28. Jody raced the car nine more

Johnston’s book Early Motoring In South Africa, he states, “By far the most popular make was the Chevrolet, with six cylinders. Next came Ford in four-cylinder Model A form, followed by Dodge, Chrysler, Buick, Hupmobile, RugbyDurant, Essex and Studebaker before the first of the non-American cars, Austin”. The book carries two period photographs; one captioned “A cruelly-twisted Rugby driven around Johannesburg on three wheels. The object of the demonstration is not clear”, and the other shows “Two new Rugbys crossing the Umlazi River en route to a customer in Zululand”.

The Rugby was an assembled make originally based on the Star Model F. In 1926 it was replaced by the improved specification Model M, by which time the Continental four-cylinder side-valve engine had been upgraded from 2137 to 2491cc, producing 27kW at 2400 r/min. In 1928, the Model M2 was introduced as a stop-gap model, and one of these is part of the FMM collection. It was supplied by DH Saker & Co

times during the year, winning both the Swedish and British GPs. Jody finished third in the Drivers’ Championship, helping Elf Team Tyrrell finish third in the Constructors’ Championship. The following year the car was sold to Lexington Racing for Jody’s elder brother, Ian, to race in the SA Championship. Ian finished second in the Driver’s Championship.

The Tyrrell 007/1 has a proud history, recording a top five place in all but one of ten

A Local Geological Journey with Nick Norman

While you may know something of the geological forms seen in the Franschhoek Valley, it is no simple task to piece together these features into a story of the valley’s geological history. Local geologist and published author, Nick Norman, speaks and writes accessibly about the otherwise remote world of rocks. Born in Kwa-Zulu Natal where he completed his M.Sc in Geology, Nick has explored far and wide in search of the stories embedded in rocks. After exploring South American and Southern African geological features, Nick settled in Franschhoek in 1981 where he has since continued to write and explore the world of rocks.

Nick tells the fascinating story of how the Franschhoek Valley has taken on its present form after hundreds of millions of years and is still changing. You may know that the Franschhoek Mountains are formed from sandstone, a kind of sedimentary rock, and form part of the Cape Fold Mountains. Nick emphasises that these mountains, despite forming part of the Cape Fold Mountains, do not owe their current form to the process of folding (the convergence of plate tectonics that heaves vast quantities of the Earth’s material upward, forming mountains). Rather, our Franschhoek Mountains and valley were formed from an extremely slow process of erosion, mainly by water.

shift lever to transfer between 2H two and 4H fourwheel drive on the fly at up to 100km/h. And of course, a transfer box to put it into 4L low range. All of which makes this little critter pretty much unstoppable.

Add proprietary Brake Limited Slip Differential and electronic stability control to send drive to the wheels with the most grip and an extra-power mode below 30km/h in low-range, and Jimny will quite literally take you anywhere. Hill Hold and Descent Control add to a stunning pedigree, never mind a 37-degree approach, 49 degree departure and 28 degree break-over angles and an increased 210 mm ground clearance.

In accounting for this, Nick takes us back to almost 600 million years ago. He explains that a sedimentation process was underway at this time, followed by folding. Igneous intrusions were being formed (molten rock which pushes its way up from the Earth’s mantle and into sedimentary rock formations). These would form Paarl Rock and the granite rock formations on Montpellier farm (near Bridge House School), exposed to the surface by erosion. The deposition of the sediments would form an impressive basin extending from Clanwilliam to Port Elizabeth and beyond (now removed by Continental Drift).

5-door Jimny keeps its feisty little 75 kW 130 Nm 1.5-litre K15B petrol four-pot. It’s no slouch either, as our test data attests. 11 seconds zero-to-hundred is backed by a frugal 6.3 litre per hundred economy. This one’s stick-shifter gearbox is another absolute pleasure. Direct and honest, just like the rest of this little gem.

Best of all, this new 5-door adds more than enough practicality to take its now even broader capable persona beyond just a free-living image. Which leads us to conclude that the Suzuki Jimny’s

The folding that would ensue once more, explains Nick, would heave material up to an almost Himalayan scale! This time the erosion of these gigantic mountains would supply sediments extending across the entire Karoo Basin. Millennia of erosive action would give way to a gently undulating plain. At this stage, the supercontinent, Gondwana, would start to break up due to stirrings

great pedigree is more than enough to justify this little off-roader’s fans. Even more so now with its two back doors...

Images: Giordano Lupini

Follow the rest of Michele & Giordano Lupini’s motoringadventuresathttps://theauto.page

ROAD TESTED: Suzuki Jimny 1.5 GLX AllGrip 5-door

Engine:75 kW 130 Nm 1,499 cc petrol I4

Drive: 5-speed manual 4x4

TESTED:

0-60km/h: 4.17 sec

0-100km/h: 11.87 sec

0-120 km/h 17.74 sec

400m: 18.1 sec @ 121 km/h

80-120km/h: 9.85 sec

CLAIMED:

VMax: 145km/h

Fuel: 6.3 l/100km

CO2: 146g/km

Range: 630 km

Warranty/Service: 5y 200K/4y 60Kkm

LIST PRICE: R457k

in the Earth’s mantle. This movement would shape the landscape anew - new continents, mountains, oceans, coastlines, and rivers. This landscape dictated how the water would flow inland, capturing previous headwaters, and finding its way toward the oceans. In so doing, these active young rivers would carve out new valleys. And this is how the Franschhoek Valley and surrounding mountains came into being.

MARCH NEWS

Ltd, a company founded n 1902 that in 1957 merged with GK Lindsay to form the first motor concessionaire firm in the Transvaal, Lindsay Saker. The car is unrestored. Push and turn the key, push the floor starter button and the motor fires up with a quick and steady idle. Depress the clutch, wiggle the wand-like gear lever to the left and back into first, release the adjoining handbrake and the Rugby kicks off with typical immediacy before quickly running out of revs. The central accelerator has short travel, but once into second the car pulls with ease – it is pretty much a ‘do anything’ gear. Once up to speed, top gear comes into play and the car cruises at a comfortable gait, still enjoyable despite its 96 years.

Traces of this history can be identified in the valley. For example, river stones may be observed near Wemmershoek Primary School, which testify to the fact that the Berg River had meandered from one side of the valley to the other, carving out the valley as it went. The geological foundations described have also set the scene for the ecological systems surrounding us. From the sandy nutrient-poor soil, derived from the extremely hard quartzitic sandstone, the world’s most bio-diverse flora has sprung forth: fynbos. Indeed, the harsh conditions have required our indigenous plant life to be resourceful, adaptive, and evolutionarily creative. It follows that the fauna have also had to acclimatise to this harsh terrain. And yet, the valley’s ecology has provided enough organic matter, mixing with the eroded sedimentary rock and granite, to form soil that is fertile enough to produce some of the world’s finest wines and natural produce. And so we find ourselves entwined in the ongoing geological and ecological story of the land in our valley.

With sales starting to fall, in 1928 the Rugby ceased to exist as a car brand. The Great Depression wiped out Durant Motors’ sales as well as Durant’s personal fortune, leading to the demise of the company in 1932. The Rugby was just a part of his life’s game plan, and FMM’s car is one of only 1 132 that were built. This rare model is currently on display in Hall A.

If this story piqued your interest, Nick’s books can be purchased or ordered from your local book vendor. His publications include Going to Ground, Box of Rocks, Geology Off the Beaten Track, The Extraordinary World of Diamonds, and Geological Journeys. For more information about Nick, you can visit his website: https://www.nicknormanbook.com/.

Text: Leila Shirley | Image: Nick Norman

races in the 1974 Formula 1 Championship, and a top five place (including six wins) in all but two of nine races in the 1975 SA Championship. The car is currently on display in Hall D.

VISITING FMM

Botulinum Toxins | Dermal Fillers | Intravenous Therapy

FMM’s opening time are Monday to Friday 10h00 to 18h00 (last admittance 17h00), Saturday and Sunday 10h00 to 17h00 (last admittance 16h00). Visiting the museum is by appointment only and via online booking. Entry fees: R80 adults, R60 pensioners and motor club members (with membership ID), R40 children (ages 3-12). Only electronic payments are accepted. The famed FMM Pitstop Deli is open throughout the visiting hours. For booking tickets and any other information as well as signing on for a free monthly newsletter, logon to www.fmm. co.za or phone 021 874 9000 or e-mail fmm@fmm.co.za

Nick Norman with the Wemmershoek Mountains in the background.

I’ve often mused in the past on how May is one of the most unpredictable months of the year. Every farmer in the winter rainfall area will tell stories of the years they waited for the rain to sow their crops, with the end of May being the ultimate deadline. In dry years the joke is that farmers plant on the 50th of May. This year things seem different. We were blessed with abundant early rains, and winter quickly pushed a short autumn out of the way.

My soil is too waterlogged to work already – a pity because I had big plans to prepare new sections for vegetable planting in spring. I will have to go no-till this season and will experiment with sowing a green manure crop in narrow drills in the soil. Adding some radish and other root crops should loosen the soil enough to make up for the lack of deep cultivation. This green manure sowing must be done before the end of the month to ensure enough biomass to dig into the soil in spring. Finding a decent green manure seed mix in small quantities might be difficult and expensive for the home gardener. I’ve successfully used a mix of my expired vegetable and flower seeds combined with a garden bird seed blend from the pet food section. This gives a good variety of grains and green material. Adding some peas to the mix will trap nitrogen in the soil for the next season.

And just like that 2024 has marched into March. With Easter weekend coming early, this year might truly feel as if it is running away from us. Not only is Easter weekend a significant religious holiday for many, but it is also a cosmological event. Easter Sunday falls on the first Sunday following the full moon after the Autumn Equinox. Tradition has it that this also signals in the rainy season for us in the Cape. Let us see if that holds true this year, we can certainly do with some relief after what seems like a relentless summer. February is surely holding up her reputation as the hottest month of the year. March is a time of gathering. For the diligent gardener, it is a month of great reward as all summer vegetables and fruits are ripe and ready to be harvested. It is also a time of sharing as we cannot contain the glut of tomatoes, peppers, aubergines, grapes, berries, apples, and pears. Walking the garden in the early mornings and evenings is such a delight this time of year. Use that time well by taking pictures of what you like and don’t like in the garden, these are useful notes for future garden planning. Also, carry a bucket for all the spent fruit on the ground; by keeping up the garden hygiene now you prevent infestation next summer. Your rose garden should be in its final flush, keep up the deadheading to prolong into autumn. You might also need to spray against blackspot and powdery mildew as the weather changes. Spider mites are a big menace this season to watch out for.

You will have to utilize the sunny days between the cold fronts to their best, because May is a busy gardening month, with the rewards only coming much later in the season. Your autumn pruning should be well on its way by now, with only the late flowering shrubs such as Solanum, Tecomaria, Leonotis, Lavender, Plumbago and Hibiscus that still needs to be pruned. Tree surgery to deciduous trees also needs to be done sooner rather than later. Pay attention to overgrown evergreen trees and shrubs by cutting away some of the lower branches and opening the canopy to let in more sunlight. Perennials such as Canna’s, Michaelmas daisies, Japanese anenomes, Salvia and Gaura should all be cut back hard this month. Fertilise and mulch afterwards. Lift Dahlia bulbs if you have clay soil; in well-drained soil most bulbs and tubers can be left in the ground over winter. Fertilise all winter flowering shrubs with a balanced fertilizer.

I will wait for the rain before I start any major preparation and planting, but March is a good month for planning those autumn tasks. Order manure and mulch in time and make sure you have the help you need to tackle the bigger tasks. The garden loves to be covered by a blanket in winter and autumn is a good time to start stacking leaves, cut grass, and chipped branches onto the permanent beds. Even fresh material can be used now as it will have all of winter to decompose and enrich the soil. Plan your green manure and living mulch crops early and order seeds in time to sow as soon as the first rains come. Seeds of winter brassicas can be started in trays or irrigated seedbeds. Brighten up your winter by sowing scatter packs of annuals all over the garden.

Winter flowering bulbs can also be planted now. It is also a great month for dividing perennials like Agapanthus, Dietes, daylilies and Irises. This is always a great way to expand your garden, bulk up your displays and share and swap with other gardeners.

Your lawnmower can be set slightly lower. This will allow more sunlight to the lower swards of grass and help against diseases. Lawns should be fed with a high potash feed to ensure good root growth through winter. Applying agricultural lime at a rate of 50g per square meter helps keep winter weeds at bay and will help ensure a lush spring lawn. The nurseries are stocked with all sorts of winter colour – sweet peas, delphinium, dianthus, foxgloves, Iceland poppies, larkspur, pansies, viola, primula, stocks and lobelia. Patient gardeners can still sow seeds of all of these. The last of the winter and early spring flowering bulbs such as Lachenalia and Watsonia must be planted before the middle of the month. May is probably the best month to establish new Fynbos gardens. Trees planted now will have a chance to establish a decent root system before the summer heat arrives.

It is also harvesting time for the medicinal gardener. Not only will your Cannabis plants ripen fast, but most of the Mediterranean and indigenous herbs will reach their optimal oil content soon. How you treat these herbs after harvest will have a bigger effect on the quality of your medicine than the growing of it. Herbs need to dry evenly and slowly and need to be stored in an airtight container at the right moisture level. Extraction of the active compounds is an exciting hobby, and you will be amazed at the therapeutic potential of your own herbal concentrates.

In the vegetable garden beetroot, broad beans, cabbage, carrots, celery, Swiss chard, onions, peas and turnips can all be sown now. Winter is also the most successful time of the year to grow salad crops in the Cape; summer is often simply too hot. Sow cover crop on unused beds, even letting weeds grow is better that leaving the soil exposed.

This is the time of the glut, and whether it is blanching and freezing, pickling and preserving, or extracting and bottling, you will surely find the garden chef in the kitchen this month. This is hard work in the heat. Give yourself a pat on the back every time you see the jars of preserves multiply on your pantry shelves.

In our house cold and rainy autumn days are spent in the kitchen. Soups, broths, stews, and slow roasts are the order of the day. While these are slowly bubbling away on the stove, we will have an abundance of guavas to process into preserves and chutney. I will also be dreaming about next season, and the abundance that I hope for by this time next year. Last year’s lack of planning and timeous action left our pantry quite empty this winter.

impact of untreated hearing loss on cognitive function. Studies have shown that individuals with untreated hearing loss have a higher risk of developing dementia compared to those with normal hearing. While the exact cause of this correlation is still being investigated, it’s believed that the decline stems from heightened brain stress as it compensates for hearing loss.

However, there is hope. Using hearing aids has been shown to mitigate this risk significantly. By amplifying sounds and improving auditory perception, hearing aids not only enhance communication but also help maintain cognitive function. As a result, wearing hearing aids can slow down the rate of cognitive decline and reduce the risk of dementia.

Despite the benefits, many with hearing loss remain hesitant to use hearing aids. Some perceive them as cumbersome or socially stigmatizing. Others may not realize the extent of their hearing loss or the potential consequences of leaving it untreated. This is why on World Hearing Day, it’s crucial to raise awareness about the benefits of hearing aids and encourage individuals with hearing loss to seek professional help.

Moreover, beyond hearing aids, promoting auditory processing skills is essential for overall cognitive health.

Just as we exercise our bodies to stay fit, engaging in auditory processing activities can help keep our minds sharp. Auditory processing involves the brain’s ability to make sense of sounds and is crucial for communication, learning, and comprehension.

Simple activities like listening to music, engaging in conversations in noisy environments, or practicing mindfulness exercises that involve auditory awareness can help improve auditory processing skills. Additionally, audiologists and speech-language therapists can provide specialized training and therapies tailored to enhance auditory processing abilities.

As we commemorate World Hearing Day, we should reaffirm our commitment to hearing health and cognitive well-being for all. By promoting early detection, advocating for the use of hearing aids, and fostering auditory processing skills, we can work towards a world where everyone has access to the joy of sound and the benefits of clear communication, ultimately reducing the burden of dementia and improving the overall quality of life.

For further assistance, contact Heidi Allan (Audiologist) : 0218762644

Rainfall Figures

CANNABIS CONSULTANCY: limited availability

Ansche’s People

Ayanda Matshini

There’s a local runner whose story embodies determination, talent, and humility. Meet Ayanda Matshini, a remarkable athlete whose journey is as inspiring as his running.

Originally from the Eastern Cape, Ayanda’s life took a significant turn when his mother, a gifted runner herself, passed away in 1994 when he was just a year old. Raised by his grandmother alongside his sister, Ayanda found inspiration in the stories of his mother’s athletic achievements.

From the age of 8, Ayanda embarked on his running journey with nothing but a pair of bare feet and a steadfast belief that his coach was none other than the divine hand of the Lord.

Despite the absence of expensive gear or professional training facilities, Ayanda’s talent shone through. While at school, he participated in the SA schools’ athletics. In 2010 and 2011 he secured silver in the 800m and gold in the 1500m. At age 22, he started taking part in the local Parkrun on Saturdays. His personal best time in the 5km is 17:30.

the love of the sport, but as a means to give back.

“In life and with running we sometimes win, and sometimes we lose, but we don’t have to do it alone, we should take hands over the finishing line.”

Ayanda’s passion doesn’t end with running. He has a love for the theatre as well. Playing the role of the prodigal son in a school production left a profound impact on him. Through this experience, he learned valuable lessons in humility, gratitude, and the importance of family and community.

Top Geographer

Ayanda’s dream of becoming a professional athlete burns brightly within him. Yet, he remains grounded, recognizing the challenges and limitations that life often presents. He believes in the power of hard work, teamwork, and punctuality –principles he learned both from running and in the workplace. In a world where coaches and training programs reign supreme, Ayanda’s reliance on his faith as his guiding light sets him apart.

Weber Wizardry

If you thought that a braai was limited to things like wors, chops and sosaties, think again. What about Peking Style Duck with Pancakes, Greek Lamb, Pork Neck, Tandoori Chicken, Fish baked in Salt, Crepes Suzette and more?

The Franschhoek Hospitality Academy recently held a unique fundraising event coordinated by Shirley Killian. Shirley has had an illustrious career as a chef, cooking school head, TV personality and prolific writer of cookbooks.

Six teams of four were tasked with preparing and cooking two dishes on Weber braais that fully tested their cooking abilities or lack thereof! The teams were fiercely competitive and entered into the spirit of the day in various guises.

At the start of the afternoon, Shirley gave a Master Class in food preparation and Weber cooking techniques. It was then over to the participants. In the early evening, partners joined in and feasted on the wonderful variety of food that had been produced.

A very successful auction followed with some superspecial items on offer: A Luxury Rhine River Cruise; Safari in Tanzania; Weekend beach escape in Plettenberg

Bay; Riedel Glass Wine Tastings; Weber Gas Braai; Winemaker For a Day Experience at Café Du Vin.

Now in its seventh year, the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy is a non-profit NGO which provides hospitality industry training to previously disadvantaged youth in the community.

A most sincere ‘thank you’ to Shirley and Joe Killian, our bidders, participants and auction item donors, namely Viking Cruises, Tourvest, Bush Breaks, Riedel, Weber South Africa and Café du Vin. Also thank you to all who generously donated wine and ingredients for the event.

Text & Image: FHALC

Destin Bürgin, a Bridge House School Grade 12 learner, achieved first place in the 2022 South African National Geography Olympiad. He will be one of four SA learners to represent South Africa in the International Geography Olympiad (iGeo) later this month.

The 18th International Geography Olympiad will be held online and hosted by France from 12 to 18 July, under the auspices of the International Geographical Union Olympiad Task Force.

For Ayanda, Franschhoek isn’t just a place on the map; it’s a home that has nurtured him and kept him grounded. Among the many blessings in Ayanda’s life, his employment record stands as a testament to his hard work and dedication. For the past nine years, Ayanda has found joy and fulfilment in his daily work, and he is grateful for the opportunity to do gardening and hospitality work at Mont Rochelle.

• facilitate social contacts between young people from different countries and in doing so, contribute to the understanding between nations.

After a race in Durban in 2010, Ayanda felt a stirring within his soul – a desire to uplift others through his love of running. Without hesitation, he decided to donate his running shoes to someone in need, trading his comfort for the opportunity to make a difference in another’s life. He dreams of running the Comrades Marathon, not just for

iGeo is an annual competition for the best 16 to 19 year-old Geography students from all over the world. Students chosen to represent their countries are the very best, chosen from thousands of students who participate enthusiastically in their own National Geography Olympiads.

The aims of the Olympiad are to:

Ayanda Matshini’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and unwavering faith. As he laces up his shoes, or perhaps exchanges them for his bare feet (to spare his shoes for a race), Ayanda proves that with faith as our guide and compassion as our compass, anything is possible – even the impossible dream of conquering the Comrades Marathon!

With the next Parkrun, remember to take hands over the finish line; that is if you can keep up with him!

• stimulate active interest in geographical and environmental studies among young people;

Welcome in 2024. Welkom in 2024 Franschhoek Leeskring (Reading Circle) would like to extend a warm welcome to all Englishspeaking reading enthusiasts in Franschhoek, who have a basic understanding of Afrikaans. We meet every month at the Dutch Reformed Church Hall at 14h30 for refreshments and socialising. We start our discussions at 15h00.

Visitors are charged a fee of R30. Our membership fee is R200 p.a. and we charge R300 p.a. for a book fund, as we need to buy new books. Our next meeting is on 7 March. We will be discussing three English books in 2024.

Ons verwelkom ook ander belangstellendes en nooi graag Fleur de Lis dames uit na ons byeenkomste. Ons het ‘n heerlike wye verskeidenheid van boeke wat deur verskillende sprekers bespreek word.

Navrae: 0729325393 Francois Smith se derde roman, “Die getuienis”, slaan ’n interessante nuwe rigting in, weg van sy twee vorige romans “Kamphoer” en “Die kleinste ramp denkbaar” waarmee hy reeds vir hom ’n beduidende plek in die Afrikaanse lettere oopgeskryf het.

Ons spreker vir Februarie was Elkarien Fourie wat ‘Die Melkweg en die Miskruier’ van Jeneatte Ferreira bespreek het. Op 7 Maart bespreek Amanda Lourens van Stellenbosch Universiteit ‘Bot’ ‘n kortverhale bundel deur Carien Smith.

“Die getuienis” vertel die verhaal van Retha en Gerbrand wat saam met hulle twee seuns by ’n Christelike bedieningsentrum êrens tussen Naboomspruit en Bela-Bela woon en werk. Retha behartig die sentrum se administrasie, spyseniering en kommunikasie op sosiale media; Gerhard bedien die Woord en lei seminare. Hulle beland per toeval daar nadat hulle lewe in Pretoria ineengestort het en hulle al hulle aardse besittings verloor het. Die woord “toeval” pas egter nie in hulle manier van dink en praat nie; wat hulle betref, is alles voorbeskik en deel van God (na wie hulle deurentyd verwys as “Vader”) se plan met hulle lewens.

Hester Strümpfer 084 900 9060

Franschhoek Hospitality Academy’s Graduation 2024

• contribute positively to debate about the importance of geography as a senior secondary school subject by drawing attention to the quality of geographical knowledge, skills and interests among young people;

SA’s top young geographer, Destin Bürgin.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Bridge House School

On 9 February 2024, Franschhoek Cellar hosted a significant annual event: the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy’s graduation ceremony. This signalled the completion of intense training and internships for 25 graduates in various hospitality roles, such as chefs, housekeepers and managers in local establishments. Notably, two students, Dillon Samuels and Jason Williams, were accepted into an Austrian hospitality school, The International College of Tourism and Management.

‘Good Life’ in Franschhoek

Often it’s the sense of community that makes Franschhoek what it is.

On Saturday evening, 11 June, community members gathered to celebrate a small but significant achievement for the South African cinematic arts and a large achievement for one Franschhoek resident. The celebration encompassed the resident’s birthday, love of animals and love of her community.

Parents, stakeholders, and representatives from local restaurants, guesthouses, and wine farms attended the ceremony to witness the graduates’ success. Stakeholders included La Fontaine Boutique Hotel, Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyards, Reuben’s Restaurant, Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards, Arkeste Restaurant, Plaisir Wine Estate, Epice Restaurant, Avondrood Guesthouse, Rickety Bridge Winery, Le Manoir de Brendel, Allora Restaurant, Protégé Restaurant, Paserene, French Connection Restaurant, Chapter House Boutique Hotel, Oku Restaurant and the Royal Hotel in Riebeek-Kasteel. All these establishments took on interns from the FHA. Haute Cabrière, another key stakeholder who took on two interns, celebrated the occasion by giving the graduates high-quality calendars featuring their founder Achim von Arnim’s artworks.

Master of Ceremonies, Jeremy Davids, also the Academy Head, personalised the certificate

Alex Steyl rented out the Franschhoek Theatre to celebrate the new movie “Good Life” in which she plays the role of one of the spitting-mad Greek women who make the life of a South African Greek a misery. Olive, aged 35, (played by Erica Wessels) goes to Greece to unravel the secrets of her parents’ lives and to get over the humiliation of a cheating boyfriend. A young boy of 7, the child of an Albanian refugee, befriends her. In the best possible way, theirs is a friendship that helps them both.

presentation by highlighting each student’s individual journey and accomplishments. This personal touch emphasised the importance of each graduate’s achievement in the context of South Africa’s challenging employment landscape. The ceremony emphasised not only the academic accomplishments but also the practical skills gained by the graduates, positioning them as valuable assets in the local workforce. The festivities concluded with a meal after the ceremony, nurturing a feeling of community and mutual success among the graduates.

filming. As the credits say, no children or animals were harmed in the making of the film.

Duke Coulbanis, a close Greek neighbour of Alex’s, with a calling to the Greek Orthodox Church, quips how he had to teach Alex to swear in Greek so she could appear authentically Greek. “Alex honoured me by asking me to help her with the Greek language.

Founded in 2018 by Michaela Julian, Tarryn Corlett, and Brian Moor, the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy & Learning Centre continues to address the pressing need for trained professionals in the local hospitality industry. Recognising financial challenges, the academy offers an affordable option, providing quality

The entry requirement for the evening was a donation of cat or dog food for SHARF (Safe Hands Animal Rescue Franschhoek), a charity enthusiastically supported by Alex. Wine and popcorn –made instantly in an air fryer – made for a festive evening. Once everyone was seated, and theatre manager Pieter started the movie, there were warm cheers and enthusiastic clapping at

The movie, ‘Good Life’, was written and directed by Bonnie Rodini. The movie took fourteen years to make, with the bulk of the shooting taking place during the Covid pandemic. The whole movie was shot around the Cape peninsula, with the Castle of Good Hope transformed into a Greek village. Clever editing with stock footage makes the scenery very Greek, and there were gasps of empathy at the very cold water the actors had to brave while pretending it was the warm water off the coast of Greece!

According to Alex, the movie was a project of love made on a shoestring budget. Don’t expect special effects; the movie relies on good storytelling and

Not that they speak Greek in the movie, but Alex’s character needed to ‘swear under her breath’ at various people, and to add an air of authenticity, she wanted to know how to do so in Greek, and accompany it with any gestures that might be applicable.” Duke also holds the distinction of owning the cell phone that filmed Alex’s audition for the role at the local café, Fotini’s.

Celebrating Bastille? Franschhoek Hospice will be selling the following items on the 16th and 17th July at the

We are halfway through 2022 and we would like to thank our wonderful volunteers who have been making sandwiches and soup for our patients so

There are still 6 months to go until the end of the year and many more sandwiches and soup to be Thank you to the community and businesses for

education and essential training within the community. The 2024 graduation once again highlights the impact of education, dedication, and community support. Graduates are equipped

Taki’s, also Greek-owned, was the obvious choice for the movie-going friends to gather for a bite to ‘Good Life’ is a good South African story. According to Duke Coulbanis, it is authentically Greek too, with its myriad superstitions and long-held family grudges. The cast is all local actors and actresses, and all look quite Greek. Youngster Caleb Payne does a credible

The audience knows that the watch, the well and the boy are significant story elements. There is underlying humour: Olive is an oral hygienist whose claim to fame is whitening teeth, and she has queues of desperate Greeks wanting whiter teeth; the wheelie bin affair keeps cropping up as an ongoing amusement; the ladies in the purported aquatics group in their flowery caps link the venomous attacks against Olive. ‘Good Life’ is fun; a well-told story with all the elements to keep you entertained for its duration. Watch it on Netflix.

Karate Tournament Success

with vital skills needed to contribute to the local and global hospitality sector.

Samurai School of Karate Franschhoek which is housed at the Franschhoek Health Club since 2010 has surfaced again. The Franschhoek karate group hosted the second BASKA development tournament on Saturday 28 May 2022.

Text: Leila Shirley | Image: Supplied

first at the second

FLTR:

Chris Ensil, Amelie, Kayla, Melo, Ethan, Joda-Rose, Emiru and Curstley. Back row: Johan Viljoen, past karate student of Sensei Chris.

ANSCHE GROBLER

The 2024 graduates celebrate a life and education milestone.

Letters

Bridge Endorsement

Dear Editor

I want to endorse the sentiment expressed in Michael Lupini’s letter in January issue of the Tatler. His proposal that that the river should be made to run below Main Road underneath a bridge acknowledges the scope and power of the September 2023 flood. A further example of the magnitude of the flood is that it has been estimated that 10 000 cubic metres of sand were deposited on Henry Meyers’s farm at the bottom end of Annemarie street. That is 10 000 one-ton bakkies full of sand! Imagine the strength and power of that amount of liquid sand. Furthermore, the new walls and foundations that have been built by private owners along Cabriere and Annemarie Streets will channel a future flood up Cabriere Street and endanger properties on the south side of Annemarie street and Mare Christine Street. This will be the inevitable result of the essential clearing of vegetation and strengthening of the river bank further up beyond Terbodore and Dirkie Uys

Franschhoek’s Mountain Cable Car

Dear Editor

The building of a mountain cable car in Franschhoek heralds a transformative era, echoing Tokyo Sexwale’s visionary call to evolve the region into the Vale of the Winelands. In 2024, this endeavour represents more than mere infrastructure; it symbolizes the dawn of a brighter future:

Tokyo’s Legacy: Reflecting on Tokyo Sexwale’s historic “Walk to Freedom,” we realize his dream resonates today, driving community progress and prosperity.

Community Support: The Facebook support underscores a collective belief in the cable car’s potential to ignite growth and opportunity for all residents.

Revitalization: Amidst challenges, South Africa’s potential for renewal lies in bold initiatives. Properly managed, this project can enhance, not diminish,

Top Achiever

Street, which will only lend further strength to the river. The run-off course to the Franschhoek River between Roubaix Village and the Packstore must be adequate to contain this flow. We underestimate the power of nature at our peril.

JohnvanZyl

the village’s charm and vitality.

Urban Development: Envisioning a pedestrianized Huguenot Street and a Robertsvlei Road bypass unveils a future where residents and visitors enjoy safer, more vibrant surroundings.

Economic Empowerment: The cable car marks the genesis of a broader strategy to stimulate business growth and job creation, following the footsteps of visionary leaders like Alan Winde.

Long-Term Vision: Embrace this project not as an isolated endeavour, but as a catalyst for Franschhoek’s renaissance, fostering a dynamic, prosperous community.

Let’s view the cable car as the cornerstone of a new era, where Franschhoek thrives as a beacon of opportunity and vitality for generations to come. Cable Car Supporter

Hospice Buys Triber

Editor’s Letter

Siegfried Schäfer

Dear Readers,

A few weeks ago I received a message from a resident lamenting the fact that the last property neighbouring theirs is now also being converted to a short-term rental (STR)/Airbnb. They have no more permanent neighbours left, only an everchanging assortment of visitors in summer and often nobody at all in winter – a far cry from the vibrant local community that drew them here in the first place.

This resident isn’t alone... One street away another resident tells me that there are only two permanently-inhabited houses left on his block. It’s a pattern that repeats all over the village. It’s little wonder that whenever I attend a community meeting I see the same few dozen faces.

Most properties used for STR purposes have no planning permission to do so (appropriate zonings/consent uses) – the owners simply do whatever they please because they know the municipality is either incapable or unwilling to enforce its own zoning regulations. Finding the proof for this statement is pretty simple; have a look at the latest municipal zoning map, pick a block (especially in the old part of the village) and then drive past these properties a few times on a weekday in winter. You don’t have to be a genius to figure out what is going on!

The irony of the situation is that the few property investors who actually follow the correct procedures by applying for the appropriate permissions almost always have their applications approved, because according to the official records the percentage of properties used for STR is relatively low! Officialdom is just bumbling about its business as usual with no regard to what is going on in the real world outside their ivory towers. I suppose it just goes to prove that there is a big difference between achieving clean audits and effective local governance…

Village residents (the few of us that are left!) will agree that the situation is getting worse with every year that passes. Formal statistics are lacking, but the findings of a 2014 academic study (‘Living apart together’ in Franschhoek, South Africa. The implications of second-home development for equitable and sustainable development.) were disconcerting ten years ago.

So what did the study find? Well, out of 883 residential properties in the village 319 were identified as second homes. I.e. even 10 years ago more than a third of village properties didn’t have permanent residents. A third of secondhome owners were found to be foreign nationals with the remaining two thirds being South Africans. With regards to the function of the property, foreign owners were far more likely to see it as a lifestyle choice (82%), whereas among South African second-home owners the primary function was as an investment. “A striking 48 per cent of domestic second home owners rented out their property, or parts of it, whereas only 21 per cent of foreign second home owners did likewise.” I shudder to think of the results if the study were to be repeated today…

So what can you do to arrest this hollowing out of our community? Here are a few ideas:

• Object to any further rezoning or consent use applications for tourist accommodation near you. Emphasise the number of nearby properties that are already illegally used for STR.

• Report illegally utilised properties near you to the land-use inspector. Contrary to what the title implies they won’t inspect anything that isn’t pointed out to them!

• Write to officials and politicians pointing out the problem – do so again and again!

• Don’t sell your property to an investor, but rather to a family.

• Support the Franschhoek Heritage and Ratepayers Association in their efforts to address this issue with the municipality. Let’s keep what’s left of our village from also becoming an empty shell.

Until next month!

DEADLINES - APRIL 2024 ISSUE

Bookings - 15 March 2024 | Artwork - 18 March 2024 | Editorial - 15 March 2024

Franschhoek High School’s top achieving student, Leeroy Chakanyuka, received an award for

Franschhoek

The Chamber’s Choice

Jonathan Daniels, Owner of Watch Eagle Solutions

Jonathan Daniels, the Managing Director of Watch Eagle Solutions (WES), is a local security leader and dedicated advocate for community wellbeing. Beyond running a professional security company, he engages in initiatives that showcase a commitment to both safety and community welfare.

Founded in 2008 as Farmguard Security, WES has grown into a security provider catering to the distinct requirements of businesses and homes in Franschhoek and its vicinity. With a vision to be the preferred level 1 B-BBEE security services provider WES provides various services, such as security guards, patrolling, and 24-hour surveillance.

Jonathan’s path in the security industry began with a personal tragedy – his brother’s lifechanging accident resulting from a security breach. This event, combined with his family’s history of dedication to law enforcement, particularly his father Hendrik Daniels, who was a respected police reservist at Franschhoek Police Station, inspired the creation of Watch Eagle Solutions. Jonathan aims to offer a trustworthy, community-centred security service without the high costs associated with external providers.

What sets WES apart is its meticulous systems of accountability – from ‘walkie-talkies’ to WhatsApp communication channels. Technological innovations such as license disk scanners contribute to the efficiency of operations. With approximately 90 guards deployed across various locations, Jonathan ensures that his security personnel undergo rigorous training and examination through the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), and have a clean criminal record, assuring clients of their reliability. This commitment allows Jonathan to pay slightly higher salaries, assuring clients of the reliability and quality of his security personnel.

Behind WES’s success is a dynamic team, each member playing a crucial role. Ricardo Young is the Human Resource Manager, and Chantelle Daniels is the Office and Control Room Operator/ Special Operations Manager.

WES offers a range of services, including physical security like guarding and K-9 protection. Their safety

officers are well-equipped to ensure the protection of clients’ assets, underscoring the company’s dedication to delivering quality security solutions. WES proudly serves a notable clientele, including respected organisations such as Drakenstein Municipality, Stellenbosch Municipality, Cape Nature and Cape Winelands District Municipality. They also actively contribute to the security of places like Groendal Secondary School, Franschhoek Country House and Villas, Macaron Boutique Guest House, Le Pommier Wine Estate, Saffier Landgoed Estate and Diamond’s Discount Liquor.

Jonathan’s commitment extends beyond security; he actively participates in community cleaning initiatives, emphasising the importance of a safe environment for Franschhoek’s residents and visitors. With Jonathan Daniels and Watch Eagle Solutions, the village gains not just a reliable security provider but also a community-focused leader dedicated to safety, cleanliness and prosperity.

For all security needs or inquiries, Watch Eagle Solutions can be contacted at info@watcheagle. co.za or 082 395 4870. Jonathan Daniels can also be reached directly at jdaniels649@gmail.com or 072 748 2442. For more information about their services, visit their website: https://watcheagle.co.za/. Stay updated on their activities and community initiatives by following their Facebook page.

Text & Image: Leila Shirley

TONY FROST

Where is the joy?

I visit too many organisations where there is a heaviness and a sense of being here only because I must, and most people are excessively stressed. This is not good for anyone. Not the organisation, not the individual and not the country.

There is enough research to show that the more lightness of spirit, more joy, more fun at work is good for everyone, including success and profitability.

That said, what is it that we must do to change this paradigm?

Let me hasten to add that this is not the situation in every workplace. There are examples where the counterpoint proves the rule. Happy people, people with a sense of meaning at the workplace are more productive, more focussed and display fewer personal issues than those that work in a dour, work-by-the-numbers environment.

If you watch any sport but particularly a team sport it is easy to discern the teams that play with joy in the hearts and are committed to each other first and to themselves as individuals second. The top teams know full well that success comes from the highest level of collaboration and cooperation. Every player knows that they are dependent on each other for success and that not one of them on their own can win the game, no matter how brilliant he or she may be.

So how do we translate this into the organisational environment?

It is probably simpler than most would like to believe.

Unfortunately, the top-down work-study approach to work that started ages ago with Taylor’s so-called scientific approach to work has resulted in an almost Newtonian cause-andeffect approach to management. People are not robots. In order for them to operate at their most creative and innovative they need space and encouragement.

If one goes into a lush thriving and vitally alive jungle it is likely to be a scene of grossly diverse chaos and symbiosis. A place where every element has a crucial role to play in the health and longevity of the jungle. In short, all the plants from

the biggest to smallest, from most obscure to the most visible are all vital components of this healthy system. Every plant knows that it thrives because of the imperative of highest order collaboration.

And so it should be in the workplace.

There have been many experiments, attempts if you will, to replicate this approach in organisations. Those introduced with clear meaning and some specialised skills training have succeeded, some have failed.

Volvo realised that the robotic, cocooned, approach to car assembly was not producing the results it hoped for. They scrapped the old approach and made teams responsible for building the whole car from beginning to end. Absenteeism receded, pride in the end result increased, ownership of the process improved, profitability went up. Team members were encouraged to move around and see what other teams were doing and to experiment. No longer was production centrally designed and controlled. Teams and team members thrived and the internal competition to be the best was a healthy by-product of the process. Not all organisations can do this. Others approach the challenge differently from inviting teams to redesign the workplace, to encouraging them to decorate it the way they want, to providing exercise studios where team members are encouraged to take time out, exercise and to share ideas as they do so, to arranging regular no-agenda meetings where team members are asked to just come and share their ideas as to how to improve the working space.

Humans were designed to interact, we are not a species designed to be alone. We are a herding species. We need each other. One of the most insidious illnesses in the modern working environment is loneliness. This is a function of a super-structured silo approach and design of the workflow. Instead, we should be striving to create as much meaning and connectivity in every little job that we can so that people can see the result of their efforts and the joy in producing their piece.

Putting a widget on a piece of machinery day after day in a repetitive robotic fashion is a motivation killer whether on a production line or in the account’s office.

Joy comes from sharing, from creating and from being an essential part of something bigger. tony@siroccostrategy.com

082 926 5963

Groot drakenstein Games club

Can you tell us about the origins of Teesakkie and how it became a cherished spot in Franschhoek?

Die Teesakkie began in 2009 as my way of treating overseas visitors to traditional pastries in the heart of Franschhoek. The idea took shape when Jenny Prinsloo from the Franschhoek tourism office requested my carrot cake for a special event. It was a hit and that’s how the journey of Die Teesakkie, located at my Groendal home, began.

Can you tell us more about the environment and the produce that makes your tea garden special?

Absolutely. My tea garden is surrounded by fruit trees and a vegetable garden, and I open it twice a week by appointment. The produce for my treats, especially my carrot cake, comes fresh from my garden. I take pride in offering a tranquil space for visitors to enjoy morning or afternoon tea with something delicious (and often traditional) to accompany it.

Can you share more about how you contribute to the ‘Franschhoek Rond en Bont’ guided tour and the support you’ve received from local figures?

I’m honoured to have been part of ‘Franschhoek Rond en Bont,’ showcasing the rich cultural history of the valley. Figures like the renowned chef Reuben Riffel have supported community-based tourism offerings like mine. I invite tourists to experience my tea garden, using produce from my herb, fruit, and vegetable garden for cordials, teas, cakes, and tarts.

How has your nursing career influenced your passion for creating a welcoming space in your tea garden?

My nursing career, especially caring for the elderly, instilled in me a deep sense of service and caring for others. Running a tea garden is an extension of that service – creating a space where people can feel happy and cared for. This passion

The Bitterness of Olives

by Andrew Brown

Karavan Press

302 pages

Andrew Brown is one of South Africa’s finest crime writers and the success of books like “Coldsleep Lullaby” and “Refuge” ensured him appreciative audiences at his many appearances at the Franschhoek Literary Festival.

Brown has an acute sense of the complexities of society, particularly in South African society, where murderers and criminals are not necessarily outcasts and psychopaths. The wealthy, entitled and race-obsessed politicians are often capable of more cruelty and destruction than ordinary criminals and gangsters.

“The Bitterness of Olives,” published this year, is not set in South Africa; it is, in fact, an astonishingly prescient story. It is as fresh and as painful as last night’s BBC or Aljazeera headlines about the war in Gaza. In a recent interview on Radio 702, Brown disclosed that he had spent five years writing this book, originally setting it in Iran 80 years ago when Jews and Arabs lived peacefully side by side. However, the increasing violence in Israel over the last few years changed his focus, and in an astounding imaginative leap into the future, he created a story that foretold the events of 7 October 2023 and the subsequent Hamas-Israeli conflict. This novel bears evidence of extraordinary research. The sounds and smells of Palestinian life in Gaza City, and the horrors of constant bombardment are uncompromising and authentic. On the other hand, the terror and fears of Jewish civilians in Israel are graphic and unsparing.

In the interview, he stressed that he was deeply concerned by the way that systems of religious belief or political theory take away individual freedom and agency.

“Conviction is the absence of thought,” he says. But this is a story first and foremost and also a murder mystery.

There are two main characters in the novel. Avi Dahan is a grizzled, retired Jewish detective, living in Tel Aviv, mourning the loss of his wife Rahel. He is

also stems from my upbringing, surrounded by a family culture of growing, cultivating and cooking.

Can you share more about your experiences with the craft centre and the transition to focusing on your tea garden?

I had the privilege of running the craft centre with the talented potter Elvis Potina, focusing on traditional beadwork. However, with significant beadwork commissions, I trained several African women to assist. Eventually, I handed over the business to them, and now they operate in Gugulethu. This transition allowed me to fully immerse myself further in the tea garden venture, although my beadwork projects have certainly deepened my love for creative community-based work.

Your tea garden has garnered attention from diverse sources. Can you share some highlights and memorable moments from Die Teesakkie?

Die Teesakkie has been featured in Tourism Indaba, Country Life magazine, ‘Kuier’ magazine, and hosted various guests, including the Minister of Tourism. One memorable mention was in Country Life for a delectable pumpkin pie. From book clubs to media personalities, weddings, and even Franschhoek’s Open Gardens, each event holds a special place in my heart.

How has the pandemic affected Die Teesakkie and how can people make appointments to experience your tea garden?

Covid has slowed down business and now I open only by appointment. To visit my tea garden, you can reach me via phone or WhatsApp at 082 713 8745 or email ruthpaulse1@gmail.com.

I recommend contacting me ahead to ensure a delightful experience in my tea garden.

living in what the Existentialists called “a boundary situation,” clinging to memories and beliefs that no longer bring comfort, but unable to take action to embark on a new phase of his life.

The second main character is Khalid Mandour, a Palestinian doctor, who once worked as a pathologist alongside Avi in the police station.

He then decided that his sympathies lay with the Palestinians and he accepted a post in one of the large hospitals in Gaza City. With this action, he lost the close friendship he had enjoyed with Avi.

The plot unfolds when Khalid is confronted by the inexplicable death of an old woman in a block of flats that has partially been destroyed by an Israeli air attack. He suspects that she has been murdered and he calls on his former friend, the detective, to help solve the crime.

Nestling in this crime story is another story, a moving narrative about a Jewish Arab girl born in Iraq before World War II, who falls in love with an Arab boy. After the war, her family is resettled in Israel but ultimately finds itself in Gaza. She is indeed a stranger in a strange land and her death/ murder brings together the two old friends from opposing sides.

This is a profound and moving novel that will engage all readers, whatever opinions they might have about the rights and wrongs of the Gaza conflict. It can be read purely for its documentary detail, but it raises important issues about individual choice in a world ruled by powerful ideologies.

I have often written about the incredible power of poetry to influence our world for the better: it is, to me, the most humane and affecting of the written arts. To that end, March provides an ideal opportunity to illustrate this contention.

The patron saint of Wales is St. David, whose annual day of celebration, St. David’s Day, is 1 March. A former National Poet for Wales, Gillian Clarke, whose poem ‘Miracle on St. David’s Day’ is one of my all-time favourites, tells the true story of a poetry reading she gave in Wales on that day. Here it is in full:

Miracle on St David’s Day ‘They flash upon that inward eye Which is the bliss of solitude’

TheDaffodilsbyW.Wordsworth

An afternoon yellow and open-mouthed with daffodils. The sun treads the path among cedars and enormous oaks. It might be a country house, guests strolling, the rumps of gardeners between nursery shrubs.

I am reading poetry to the insane. An old woman, interrupting, offers as many buckets of coal as I need. A beautiful chestnut-haired boy listens entirely absorbed. A schizophrenic on a good day, they tell me later. In a cage of first March sun a woman sits not listening, not seeing, not feeling. In her neat clothes the woman is absent. A big, mild man is tenderly led to his chair. He has never spoken. His labourer’s hands on his knees, he rocks gently to the rhythms of the poems. I read to their presences, absences, to the big, dumb labouring man as he rocks.

He is suddenly standing, silently, huge and mild, but I feel afraid. Like slow movement of spring water or the first bird of the year in the breaking darkness, the labourer’s voice recites ‘The Daffodils’.

The nurses are frozen, alert; the patients seem to listen. He is hoarse but word-perfect. Outside the daffodils are still as wax, a thousand, ten thousand, their syllables unspoken, their creams and yellows still.

Forty years ago, in a Valleys school, the class recited poetry by rote.

Since the dumbness of misery fell he has remembered there was a music of speech and that once he had something to say.

When he’s done, before the applause, we observe the flowers’ silence. A thrush sings and the daffodils are flame.

Gillian Clarke (from‘CollectedPoems’,CarcanetPress,1997)

I love it that this “big, mild” schizophrenic patient who, “since the dumbness of misery fell” has never uttered a word, has been caused by a faded memory of the euphony of poetry to remember that “there was a music/ of speech and that once he had something to say”.

Is there a better definition of ‘miracle’ than this?

with Ruth Paulse, owner of ‘Die Teesakkie’ Tea Garden

HOUSEKEEPING: My name is Lindelwa and I am looking for a job as a housekeeper in a guest house or restaurant. Please call me on 060 376 9819 or 076 557 1190.

PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR: 35 years in business. Hire Patrick de Marco for extra marital affairs & cheating partners, criminal or civil investigations. Confidentiality and professionalism guaranteed. Call or WhatsApp Patrick now: 0846778731

BABYSITTING SERVICES: I am Clare Marsh, I am offering babysitting services in Franschhoek. I love working with children and I’m very accommodating. I charge an hourly rate of R120. If you’re interested please contact me on 060 918 4125

RE-THINKING YOUR GARDEN? For Garden Consulting call Susan at 072 932 5393

RE-FIBRE GLASS YOUR POOL in any colour you like. Call RiaPools for a quote: 072 347 5355

WESTERN CAPE HOUSE SITTERS: We have many mature, kind, responsible, animal loving, live-in house sitter members who would love to care for your home and pets. Your furry children may miss you but their environment and routines remain intact which is why we at Western Cape House Sitters will provide a perfect win-win for everyone... Peter Walsingham 082 822 4200 info@westerncapehousesitters.co.za

CHANGING TO A SALT WATER SYSTEM? Let us advise & quote for you! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355

POOL PUMP PROBLEMS? Noise? We quote and help you out! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355

STUFF WANTED: All manner of clothing and household items needed for our ‘First Friday of The Month’ jumble sales. Please help us to help the animals of the valley. Please drop off at the SPCA clinic in La Provence Street, Groendal, or phone for us to collect. 021 876 4808

FRESH, ORGANIC FARM PRODUCE: Delivered weekly to Franschhoek, including vegetables and fruit in season, chicken, eggs, cheese, honey, etc. Lists of available produce received on Monday, orders placed on Tuesday for Wednesday delivery. A number of Franschhoekers are already receiving weekly deliveries. To be added to the list contact Sue Norman on 083 321 3442 or suenorman50@outlook.com.

DO YOU STILL HAVE THAT POOL LEAK? Losing water all the time? Let us quote and take care of the problem!

Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355

PROFESSIONAL POOL SERVICE REQUIRED? Keep it local! Get a quote. Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355

Community Events

SPORT

FRANSCHHOEK TENNIS CLUB: Social tennis is played at the club on Fridays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 08h30. For more information contact Nicky. 082 455 6411

PARKRUN: Saturdays at Rickety Bridge Wine Estate. Time: 08h00. Cost: Free. Register at www.parkrun.co.za

CHURCH SERVICES

METHODIST CHURCH: Sunday service 10h00. Rev Russell Norman. 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509.

NG KERK: Sondagdienste 09h30. Geen aanddiens.

Ds Peet Bester. 021 876 2431. Besoekers welkom.New

Apostolic Church: Le Roux Street, Groendal. Sundays 09h00, Wednesdays 19h30. Rector: Charles Leibrandt.

ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Groot

Drakenstein. Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Revd Wilfred

Meyer 084 407 1280. Office - 021 874 4008.

willowdale@cybersmart.co.za

SHOFAR CHRISTIAN CHURCH: Services - 09h00 & 18h00 English services at 7 Lambrechts Street. Pastor

Richard Wade. 083 225 8529. All welcome!

TRINITY CHURCH: Worship Sundays at 09h30 at L’Ermitage Chapel, with Holy Communion. Weekday service Thursday at 10h30 at Fleur de Lis. Contact Gavin

–

UNITING

GENERAL

Useful Numbers

HOUSE

(Franschhoek, Pearl Valley/Val de Vie area.)

Semi retired professional British couple. Non smokers, seek 2+ bedroom/bathroom property to rent between November and February annually, as current

after 7 years.

batteries for

- or inverter with

speed unlimited broadband. Excellent references can be provided.

Please email

SHOWROOM:

Unit 89C Village Artisan Cabriere Street, Franschhoek

021 876 2082

franschhoek@paintsmiths.co.za

FRANSCHHOEK’S SPECIALIST PAINT SHOP

We stock a full range of Midas, environmentally friendly paints (water and oil based) and Earthcote specialised, textured trowel-on and brush-on products for wall and floor surfaces (300 colours to choose from) and a full range of paint brushes, rollers and accessories.

We also stock Thales Decontamination Solution for treating fungus and anti-fungal additives to add to all paints.

We also stock waterproofing products, Weatherprufe and Eco Rubber, Rolls of torch-on (3mm & 4mm) and various sizes of waterproofing membrane. Plascon water and oil-based paints. Hamiltons and Academy paint brushes, rollers, trays and tray-sets, crack fillers, sandpaper, masking and buff tapes, turpentine, lacquer thinners, putty and a full range of drop sheets and rolls of plastic to cover floors and furniture. For DIY enthusiasts we stock ladders overalls and drop sheets.

We also stock a full range of Woodoc 'food for wood' in various colours and a full range of Duram products, including Duram Roof paints in various colours and Duram Showfloor Polyurethane floor paint, also in assorted colours. We can also supply twin pack epoxy paints for specialised applications.

All textures and colours are on show in our showroom. Pop in and have a coffee with us, whilst leisurely selecting your paints and colours.

For FREE technical advice, paint specifications and quotations contact Paul 082 567 6162

FEATURE PROPERTY

3.4 HECTARE SMALLHOLDING

In the heart of the Franschhoek valley, a few minutes from the village this property has it all. The recently built main house is a contemporary classic. Built to a very high spec and intelligently designed to drink in the views on all sides, the contemporary but timeless finishes perfectly complement the breathtaking setting. The main house includes four bedrooms, three bathrooms, open plan formal kitchen/dining room/living room, large outside covered stoep, informal kitchen/breakfast room, office, one bedroom domestic quarters, double garage, car port, wine cellar, atrium, and roof terrace.

The main house has been very successfully rented out on a holiday rental basis from time to time. A one bedroom stand alone pod, ideal for house guests or for holiday rentals, is positioned in a secluded private

FEATURE PROPERTY

area away from the main house. Also included is a 30KWH solar power installation with batteries and a borehole ensuring the property is effectively off the grid.

Outside areas include a large swimming pool, and an extensive lawned and landscaped area to the rear of the property. To the front of the property are a number of paddocks currently enjoyed by a small flock of sheep and some chickens but also perfect for horses, and a small dam. The property is fully electrically fenced and includes a state of the art security system.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

R32 000 000

CHARACTER 3-4 BEDROOM HOME ON LA FERME CHANTELLE ESTATE

This gorgeous contemporary home on La Ferme Chantelle offers secure living with private vineyards within walking distance to the village.

Spacious double volume open-plan living/ dining room with contemporary kitchen leading out to a long deep covered terrace ideal for outside living and overlooking the large heated pool, lawned gardens and lovely mountain views.

Very large open plan office/second living area, separate family TV room and spacious scullery/laundry.

Three large bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms with scope to add a fourth

bedroom, main bedroom has stunning views across the vineyards and includes a walk in dressing room and large en-suite.

Also includes three garages, solar power system and off street parking. Erf size 1200m2

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R15 250 000

3 BEDROOM HOME ON L’AVENUE SECURE ESTATE

Luxurious

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee

CAPE VICTORIAN FARM HOUSE ON SECURE ESTATE

Exclusive Mandate. Ideally located in the secure La Petite Provence estate, this Cape Victorian “farmhouse” circa 1927 has been recently renovated and combines charming period features with a contemporary feel. Ideally suited to family living, generous open-plan kitchen and dining room, two separate lounges, five ensuite bedrooms. Two separate titles, house on 1,057m2 plot; garden and pool on a 663m2 plot.

Tom Clode

Terry-Lee

FOUR BEDROOM VILLAGE PROPERTY

This property has it all. Location, large plot, and huge period charm. Available to the market for the first time in over 20 years this much loved home sits grandly in the historic heart of Franschhoek village. Includes spacious open plan living/dining/kitchen area, four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Scope to extend into large roof space. Large covered veranda, park like garden, pool with mountain views. A very special property, early viewing highly recommended. Erf size 1249m2.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R12 000 000