The Bag That Builds
New Landfill Cell Saves Costs
Recycling plastic isn’t nearly as simple as one might think. Not only does plastic that goes to recycling have to be clean, but it must also be separated into one of seven types – not all of which are recyclable. A pilot project currently underway in the valley could help turn conventional wisdom about plastic recycling on its head.
Executive Mayor Jeremy Fasser and members of his Mayoral Committee officially launched the new waste cell at the Stellenbosch Landfill Site on Tuesday, 4 February 2025.
The new cell is a critical investment in the municipality’s waste management infrastructure.
This newly developed Cell 4 will serve the Stellenbosch community for the next two decades, providing 1.1 million cubic meters of air space for waste disposal. While the cell was under construction the Municipality incurred great cost to transport all waste to the Vissershok landfill site near Table View.
Stellenbosch’s landfill history dates back to the establishment of its first waste cell, Cell 1, which reached capacity around 1996. The need for additional waste management solutions led to the development of Cell 2, for which the Municipality received its first waste permit in 1999. By 2013, Cell 2 had reached full capacity, prompting the construction of Cell 3. When Cell 3 reached its limit in 2019, planning and development for Cell 4 immediately commenced.
for residents, waste can be properly managed, preventing pollution of rivers, parks and public spaces.”
The timeline for each landfill cell to reach capacity has been shortening over the years. If waste management practices do not evolve towards more sustainable solutions—including reducing, reusing, re-purposing and recycling—Cell 4 could also reach capacity sooner than expected.
A 2017 feasibility study indicated that unlocking additional landfill space within Stellenbosch would save the Municipality an estimated R1.5 billion in external disposal costs. The total investment in Cell 4’s infrastructure amounts to around R110 million. The project not only ensures sustainable waste disposal but also offers economic benefits by significantly reducing haulage and external disposal costs.
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.
take part in the pilot programme.
Municipal Manager Geraldine Mettler said that no other municipal land is available to create another landfill site. “The Municipality urges all residents to take an active role in responsible waste management to extend the landfill’s lifespan and protect our environment for future generations.”
According to the Municipality, having a wellmanaged local disposal site presents additional advantages beyond cost savings. “One of the key benefits is the potential to curb illegal dumping. By making disposal more accessible and affordable
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.
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.
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
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 Council will now focus on extending the cell’s lifespan with at-source sorting and turning waste into a saleable commodity.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Stellenbosch Mun.
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
For more information or if you have any form of plastic that you want to get rid of feel free to
- Sunday, 09:00 - 14:00
Municipal Manager Geraldine Mettler and Executive Mayor Jeremy Fasser at the opening of the new landfill cell.
La Motte invites you to experience its beautiful Franschhoek Valley setting with a reimagined farm experience.
new and thoughtfully curated spaces, from a warm and inviting tasting room to a family-friendly brasserie, an artisanal bakery, a reimagined farm shop, and an Ateljee, a creative hub showcasing art as well as the craftsmanship of local artisans.
Waste Management Devon Valley Site Office
Musical legends at Solms-Delta Oesfees 2025
Emo Adams, Koos Kombuis and Valiant Swart will take centre stage at the Solms-Delta Oesfees on Saturday, 29 March 2025. They join a host of other musicians for a day of live music, food and wine in celebration of the harvest’s end.
Festival-goers can look forward to live performances until sunset while relaxing under the oak trees, sampling local cuisine and savouring Solms-Delta’s wines. Tommy Hall, CEO of SolmsDelta Wine Company, says the event, which returned last year after a seven-year hiatus, is a vibrant fusion of South African music and culture and a platform to support both established and emerging artists. “The spirit of Oesfees is something truly special. When people with passion, talent and a shared purpose come together, they create more than just success—they create magic. And that’s exactly what happens at Oesfees.”
Emo Adams, known for his infectious energy and signature humour, was an institution during the early years of Oesfees and is guaranteed to also get the crowd on their feet like brother Loukmaan and his band during last year’s festival.
Hall says they are also thrilled to have Koos Kombuis join the line-up. “Like Emo Adams, he is a household name in South Africa and can only be described as ‘music royalty’, thanks to his countless contributions over the decades.” Hall says having Valiant Swart perform at the Oesfees is equally exciting: “Who can forget some of his classics like Die Mystic Boer that was released in 1995 and is still an iconic song in South Africa!”
Sought-after lead-guitarist, Anton L’Amour who has for more than 30 years accompanied many of South Africa’s top musicians, including Valiant Swart, will also be strumming at this year’s Oesfees. L’Amour released his first solo album, Dwaalvuur, in 2023.
Another new voice at the festival will be that of guest-artist, Luna Paige. The singer-songwriter and producer from Stellenbosch has also made her musical mark over many years. “It’s been said of Paige that she melts your heart and touches your soul with her music and we are very proud to have
her join us at Solms-Delta on the 29th”, says Hall.
Beloved local bands, including Papier Family Band, Die Soetstemme, and Solms-Delta’s own Optelband, backed by renowned artists Nick Turner, Schalk Joubert and Carlo Fabe, will add even more flavour to the festivities.
The audience can also look forward to the soulful songs of Tribal Echo’s Frazer Barry who has been entertaining crowds for over 20 years and will once again serve as Oesfees MC. Another familiar face at the festival will be that of the spoon-in-the-mouth guitar-man, Oom Hannes Coetzee.
The ATKV will be re-joining the ranks as a sponsor about which Hall is especially delighted.
Tickets are R200 per person and available at Solmsdelta.com and Plankton.mobi. Children under 12, when accompanied by a parent, can enjoy the day for free. Gates open at 10h00.
Text & Image: Supplied
Be Aware of Wildfires
October to April is wildfire season in the Western Cape. The Tatler met with Ashley Bauer, Chairperson of the Winelands Fire Protection Association (WFPA), to talk about wildfire awareness.
We started by asking him what Fire Protection Associations are. He explained that, “FPAs are formed and governed under the National Veldfire Act (Act 101 of 1998) as voluntary associations of landowners who wish to cooperate for the purpose of predicting, preventing, managing and extinguishing veldfires.”
The WFPA is an umbrella organization that offers a comprehensive community service to prevent fires and assist in their management, as well as that of possible other natural disasters. Locally, fire coordination is achieved through the Franschhoek Conservancy in conjunction with the WFPA. Ashley is also the Planning Section Chief of the WFPA. His role includes: compilation of the incident management plan for the operational period, tracking of resources deployed at the
incident, situational updates, mapping the fire and predicting possible weather changes, etc.
All landowners, both state and private, are responsible and accountable for adherence to the Veld Fire Act. State landowners are mandated to be members of FPAs. Private landowners can voluntarily join the FPAs.
The Winelands Fire Protection Association provides guidance and information to all landowners in terms of what is recommended to ensure that fire prevention strategies are in place.
Ashley stresses that prevention is better than cure.
Municipal and District authorities are the primary responders to fire incidents – municipal fire services for structural/house fires and district fire services for veld/wildfires. The services do however assist each other when required. FPA members and members of the local agricultural association readily respond to fires on farms.
Over the past eleven years Franschhoek has had three major mountain fires. This fire season Franschhoek has already experienced two farm fires and four in or near disadvantaged communities.
As with all fires, prompt notification is the key to
Report Shot Hole Borers!
Should any readers spot the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (Stompkopkewer) or suspect that a tree may be infested, they are urged to report it to Stellenbosch Municipality so appropriate action can be taken. The municipality has a contingency plan in place and is actively collaborating with researchers and students from Stellenbosch University to mitigate the spread of this tiny but dangerous invasive beetle.
Watch out for the following signs to identify an infected tree:
Tiny, randomly spaced holes in the bark
Fusarium (fungus) staining
Sawdust or a light wooden powder on or around the tree, particularly at entrance or exit holes.
Wilted or missing leaves
Dead or dying branches
Glue/Sap oozing from the holes
Light spots on the bark
A handful of infested trees have already been positively identified within the municipal area, both on private properties and public land. These trees have been felled, and strict protocols were followed to safely transport and destroy the infested wood.
Infected trees must be:
Felled and chipped.
Covered with black bags/plastic for at least 6 months to smother the beetle.
mitigating the effects of wildfires. The WFPA has numerous groups which are divided into geographical areas. Franschhoek is a ward within the Stellenbosch Fire Management Unit.
Major multi-day fires are managed through an ICS (Incident Command System) by the appointed incident commander. This is a provincial standard with all sections’ chiefs accredited by means of an international certificate.
Removed or destroyed by incineration after this period.
Important: Wood from infested trees should never be moved to another location such as a landfill site, as this could allow the beetle to spread and infect other trees.
If anybody suspects that a tree is infested they must call the Environmental Management offices at 021 808/ 8132/ 8194/ 8109/ 8194 – or send an email to trees@stellenbosch.gov.za. The address of the tree and property owner must also be reported. The Municipality will take the necessary steps for any trees on municipal property. In the case of trees on private property the municipality will provide guidance on the way forward. (The municipality is not permitted to work on private property but will assist with advice, proper procedures, and guidance on possible service providers.)
Text: Editorial Desk| Image: Western Australia Govt
The Winelands District is the only district with a fire service which includes appointed ground teams and helicopters dedicated to the district. Large-scale initial response is essential. Quick notification and swift reporting is the key to effective assistance. Loss of life and livelihood could result from a delay in posting or answering concerns expressed about fires.
Ashley would like to thank the Landbouvereniging, Farmers’ Union, Franschhoek Conservancy and the many volunteers, who stay until the very end when large fires break out, for their dedication and assistance. Report wildfires to the Cape Winelands District Fire Services at (021) 877 4446.
Report structural/house fires to the Stellenbosch Fire Services at (021) 808 8888.
www.winelandsfpa.co.za
Text: Rene de Reuck | Image: WFPA
Spoegwolf performing at Oesfees 2024.
Signs to look for in infested trees.
A recent veldfire in the Wemmershoek Mountains above the La Motte Wine Estate
How and when did your interest in antiques, rare objects and collectibles start?
My business began in the late 1980s selling at the Market Theatre Flea Market in Johannesburg. The Old Corkscrew, here in Franschhoek, began like many others, where old, vintage and antique pieces were quickly snapped up by collectors. This was the beginning of a quest that led to becoming a restorer of antiques, mainly metalware. This skill set has taken forty years to perfect, and I believe I am halfway to becoming proficient.
What are the essential traits and characteristics of a collectibles dealer?
To be a successful antique/collectible dealer you need to know your product and research is a large part of the job. The ability to add value in terms of history and put the items into context will ensure a better return.
Which piece in your shop is your object of desire, the ‘piece de resistance’?
Currently one of the corkscrews of the collection, which I showcased at the recent SAADA Fair, is my favorite. It’s a silver corkscrew dating from about 1710 which has an applied seal featuring a winged heart on an anchor. This refers to the sentimental theme of love’s having found safe anchorage. Although made over 300 years ago this piece still resonates as the idea of our love being reciprocated is still as relevant now, as it was then.
What constitutes a conversation piece?
A conversation piece is anything that makes your heart sing, be it an elaborate silver table centerpiece or a silver double beaker made in Cape Town by Oltman Ahers in 1812.
Describe what provenance means in your business and how it affects the value.
Provenance is supreme and anything having
belonged to someone famous or infamous for that matter can propel it to a value far beyond a regular example. Freddie Mercury’s silver moustache comb retailed by Tiffany against an estimate of $500-800 but soared to $180,000 at his estate sale in 2023.
Tell us about the biggest surprise you have had with an unknown object.
A number of years ago I bought a gravy boat made of brass. Normally in the 19th century, these would have been made in copper and then electroplated, when the silver wears off the copper base remains. Brass being a brittle metal is difficult to work and forms into a piece of hollowware and would not have been a logical choice. What caught my eye was the design and upon research, I discovered that it was a piece made in the form of 18th-century silver versions, made at a time when labour was cheap, but the finished brass version would have a silver leaf laid over it providing a cost-saving alternative. This was an exceptionally rare 18th-century example that now resides in an international collection.
What advice would you give to an uninitiated buyer?
Go to antique fairs, visit museums and talk to dealers. They will share their passion and knowledge
giving you the chance to build a collection that in time will give you tremendous enjoyment and satisfaction.
What is the meaning and enjoyment you have found in being a purveyor of rare and beautiful things?
To briefly own some of the world’s rarest and finest art and antiques made by people who were supremely talented is an honour that I enjoy every day. Sharing this passion with my clients is well, just priceless!
with Jeremy Astfalck, owner of The Old Corkscrew
Harvest Joy at La Motte
Harvest time is the most important time on a wine farm, but it is also a time to celebrate the joy of this special season.
“It’s too good not to share!,” says Cellarmaster Edmund Terblanche: “The vineyards love a cold and wet winter and that’s what they got. Then we had a relatively cool and dry start to summer, so the grapes are healthy and with a slightly lighter load expected, we anticipate exceptional quality”.
The team at La Motte invites guests to join the La Motte Harvest Experience and be part of the Winelands’ special harvest-time joys, sharing in the blessing of having a harvest, the summer beauty of the Franschhoek Valley and the passions of the La Motte family.
Bringing in the harvest.
During the La Motte Harvest Experience one of the estate’s enthusiastic and knowledgeable wine-tasting ambassadors will guide you on this celebration of unique harvest traditions:
In the vineyard: Enjoy an introduction to the different varietals, harvest processes and the estate’s biological farming practices. Spot the differences between the various varieties and taste the sweetness of the ripe berries.
In the cellar: Experience the hand-sorting of grapes, crushing, pump-overs and other cellar activities, concluded with a tasting of grape must (fermenting grape juice) from a fermentation tank. (Cellar activity will depend on the specific day’s harvest action.)
In the tasting room: Enjoy a tasting of La Motte’s award-winning wines – six wines from the La Motte Classic and Estate Collections. You can also enjoy the famous La Motte Mosbolletjie as part of the tasting.
In the shade of the age-old oaks: Relax in the calm of the estate gardens and enjoy a beautiful harvest-inspired small plate from L’Ami Family Brasserie – with a glass of wine of course! (Only available as part of the morning edition.)
The Harvest Experience (R190 per person)
includes the vineyard and cellar tour as well as wine tasting. It takes about 90 minutes and is available from Tuesdays to Sundays at 10h00 and 15h30, starting from 5 February to the end of March. A delicious Harvest Plate menu is an optional addition and available as a light lunch after the morning edition of the Harvest Experience (R150 per person). Choose between Wineland’s favourites and summer tastes on a small plate: Farm sausage with homemade grape blatjang and mustard, Cape Malay Hake Samoosas with a grape salsa or Almond Gazpacho with grapes and herbs. Your choice of a glass La Motte Sauvignon Blanc or Millennium (or soft drink) is included. Reservations for the Harvest Experience and optional Harvest Plate are required and can be made online. (https://la-motte.com/collections/lamotte-harvest-experience)
Before you leave, remember to buy some of La Motte’s renowned harvest-time mosbolletjies or other harvest-inspired breads from the La Motte Bakery. They’re available for the duration of harvest. They sell like hot cakes, so to avoid disappointment, rather order yours in advance from Bonita: T +27 (0)21 876 8825 or E bakery@la-motte.co.za
You may also wish to visit the Farm Shop and Spens (they have must jam and butter for your mosbolletjies...)
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: La Motte
‘Lekker’ Local Indian Cuisine
Franschhoek has a hidden gem of a restaurant that tourists haven’t quite discovered yet. Blue Coriander’s loyal local clientele may be forgiven for hoping it stays their little secret! Unfortunately for them, and fortunately for chef-proprietor Andeep Singh, a secret this tasty tends not to remain a secret…
Andeep originally hails from near New Dehli in India. His family were farmers, but he dreamed of his own business and chose to go to hotel school rather than continue the family vocation.
In 2010, with Football World Cup fever ripe in South Africa, he decided to see what opportunities were available to him on African shores. He soon found a job at Bihari Indian Restaurant in Claremont –despite never having cooked before! What clinched it though was his willingness to learn and improve himself. He’d even go to work on his days off to see what he could learn from the chefs.
His dedication paid off and he found his next employment at the newly opened Taj Hotel in Cape Town’s CBD. Here he worked his way up from commis chef to sous chef, but the drive to pursue his business dream was still there and eventually brought him to Franschhoek.
Andeep opened Blue Coriander in 2018. His North Indian cuisine soon found favour with locals and he opened another restaurant in Stellenbosch in 2019. Then Covid hit and the dream he was building almost came crashing down around him. “At one point I had two empty restaurants and R100 in my pocket,” he recalls.
He temporarily closed his Franschhoek restaurant to focus on the Stellenbosch one and managed to ride out the Covid storm. In 2021, he reopened his Franschhoek restaurant and has been realising his business dream ever since.
This however wasn’t his first venture to Franschhoek. In 2013, he applied for a position at Leeu Collection’s Marigold Indian Restaurant. To prove his worth, he was asked to prepare a meal for Leeu Collection founder, Analjit Singh who remarked, “It tastes just like home!” Andeep’s employers at the Taj were however desperate to keep him, so he stayed on longer.
Andeep cooks everything from scratch himself and prefers to keep his menu compact.
FROM THE FRANSCHHOEK
WINE VALLEY DESK
As March settles in and harvest reaches its peak, the Franschhoek Wine Valley comes alive with the vibrant pulse of the season. Behind the cellar doors and across the sprawling vineyards, the days stretch longer, filled with a tangible energy that marks this exciting time of year. The air is alive with possibility as new faces and familiar locals alike revel in the unique spirit of this special time - from the bustle of grape-picking and harvest parties to the hum of wine-making in full swing.
Beyond the vineyards, the renowned Franschhoek Literary Festival looms just over the horizon promising to draw linguists, book lovers and curious minds to our valley. This celebrated event from 16th to 18th May will once again transform our picturesque village into a vibrant literary hub, as writers, readers and creative minds gather to celebrate the written word.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO
Franschhoek Literary Festival 16 - 18 May 2025
The Franschhoek Literary Festival is back for 2025, promising another unforgettable weekend of literary joy and connection in the heart of the Franschhoek village. Picture streets buzzing with book lovers, a
FRANSCHHOEK MYSTERY WEEKENDS
The thrill of a mystery weekend in Franschhoek is set to return in promising the ultimate escape - brimming with surprises and blissfully stress-free. A highlight of the winter Winelands calendar, these highly anticipated weekends provide guests with a seamless getaway, eliminating the stress of planning while showcasing the finest experiences Franschhoek’s renowned Valley of Dreams has to offer.
"We're thrilled to bring these weekends back to our event line-up," says Ruth McCourt, CEO Franschhoek tourism. "After countless requests, we revisited them, refining the experience while staying true to what made them so special. A sought-after escape for both returning guests and first-timers, the Franschhoek Mystery Weekends blend world-class hospitality with an element of surprise—ensuring an unforgettable stay."
2025 Mystery Weekend Dates:
27 – 29 June
25 – 27 July
29 – 31 August
Bookings are now open! For enquiries or reservations, contact mysteryweekend@franschhoek.org.za
Wishing you a fruitful and happy month in the Valley of Dreams!
Andeep Singh in his kitchen
Thoughts From My Kitchen
Chantal Lascaris
The Seasonal Identity Crisis
March is that time of year where you can’t decide whether to wear flip-flops or a jersey. One day it’s beach weather, the next you’re contemplating soup. It’s a season stuck between summer’s carefree attitude and autumn’s cozy embrace, leaving us all confused, especially in the kitchen. Should we still be eating crisp salads and ice-cold watermelon, or is it time to pull out the slow cooker and brace ourselves for the chilly months ahead? March teeters between the last golden days of summer and the first real hints of autumn, leaving us in a culinary no-mans-land. Do we cling to the brightness of summer flavours or start leaning into the heartiness of comfort food? The answer, as with most things in life, is: Why not both?
Take butternut, for example. In the depths of winter, it’s the backbone of every roasted vegetable medley. But in March? Roast it, toss it with bright citrus segments, and suddenly, it’s a sunny farewell to summer that still acknowledges the slight chill in the air. Then there’s the great soup-versus-salad debate.
Easy Chicken Caprese
Ingredients: 2
4-6
2
8-10
1
Balsamic reduction for drizzling
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnishing
Method:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees.
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of the oil onto a baking sheet and roll the tomatoes in it, coating them entirely. Move the tomatoes to the edge of the baking sheet.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper and origanum, then place in the centre of the baking sheet. Bake in the oven for approximately 15 -20 minutes or until cooked through. Remove from the oven and arrange the bocconcini slices on top of the chicken.
In January, soup is absurd. In July, salad is offensive. But in March, a cold gazpacho just doesn’t feel right anymore, while a piping hot butternut soup is still a little too ambitious. The solution? Compromise Soups: lighter broths with fresh ingredients. Think miso soup with summer’s last tomatoes, or a broth-based chicken soup with bright bursts of lemon and herbs.
And let’s not forget dessert. Ice cream season isn’t over yet, but if you’re looking for a transition dessert, meet the warm fruit crumble. It’s like an apple pie that got halfway dressed for autumn but still wants to hang out at the pool. Add a scoop of ice cream, and you’ve mastered the art of seasonal balance.
March is the month where your wardrobe includes both sandals and boots, and your plate should reflect that same flexibility. It’s a time to embrace the seasonal identity crisis, blending light and hearty, fresh and warm, summery and autumnal. Because if the weather can’t make up its mind, why should we?
Here’s a recipe that’s ideal for this in-between month.
Place under the grill until the cheese starts to melt.
Transfer the chicken and tomatoes to a platter or serve them straight from the baking sheet if you like. Squeeze over the lemon juice and drizzle with the balsamic reduction.
Garnish with basil and serve with a side of salad and some ciabatta bread.
site
Tatler Motoring
Ferrari 296GTS. Simply Astounding
All about the fastest car we ever tested. By far.
Standing in the dark at Indianapolis. No, not Indiana, at the Sarthe between Arnage and the Curves. Late on that Saturday night in the middle of June. You begin understanding the Le Mans orchestra. What sets the Hypercars apart. The Cadillac. Mad. That V8. The Porsches. Rough. The Gazoos. Well … professional.
Then the Ferrari. Guttural. Muted. V12. Add an animal electric shriek. Interrupted by turbocharger shouting. Screaming. Burping. The very crescendo emanating from deep within this street version. As it dispatches performance you never knew before. Let me explain the V12. This Ferrari 296GTB. It has a 2.9 V6 Maranello calls the little V12. Its 120 degree vee throbs the V12 feel. Sounds like one too. A deep mechanical symphony. And its powerful. Wickedly madly wonderfully powerful.
Space pod stuff at one and a half tonnes
296GTS specific output pegs between Chiron and Veyron. Yes. That strong, The numbers tell you. 610 kW. 488 from the 120° 2,992 cc Tipo F163 BC biturbo V6.123 kW from its YASA single-stator dual-rotor axial flux MGU-K electric motor. Oh, and 740 Nm. At one and a half tonnes. Space pod stuff. Anyway. The name harks to the original156. Real
rear mid-rear engined Formula 1 Ferraris. They spawned the 206. It became 246. The Dinos. They grew into Magnum’s 308, then 328. Before Ferrari lost its model tags way.
Who knows what those numbers meant. Fine cars. All of them. But this? This is different. The name picks up history. The car steps into tomorrow. You’ll even drive 25 km on battery only. Deep city green zone legal.
296GTS is spacious. Even for fat big bastards like me. Its low. But easy to get in and out. Even for fat big bastards like me. Once in, there’s a busy little steering wheel. Not much else. It has Mannetino and e Mannetino. You run the car from your thumb and fingertips.
The cabin adjusts to you. Feels spacious enough. No central screen. Your passenger has a little display. More to tell them how fast we‘re going. Rather than download crap. Or something. It’s a driver’s car.
It gets going on the motor. Then the engine takes over. Quite a rush. No. One hell of a rush. Cut the bullshit, let’s get to the point. Tap it into Quali. Oh. My. God! Ever wondered Vader’s pod feels in warp speed? Well. Here it is. Mad!
Stop. Stand on both pedals. Slip the left foot off… Thirty years ago – can it really be! When we started testing, six seconds to 100 was epic. Breaking that with M3 was big. 550 Maranello took us into the fours. Just before the new millennium. M5 V10 went quicker, the RS6 faster still.
GT-R took us under four. 911 Turbo smashed three-point five. 458 Italia went quicker. 650S Spider took another tenth off and R8 V10 Plus had us the cusp of the twos. Then the AWD übercars arrived and M5 smashed under three seconds just before lockdown.
FMM AT GEORGE
FMM had the privilege of attending The 28th George Old Car Show held on February 8 at the Eden Technical High School grounds. “The road trip from Franschhoek to George turned out to be just as social as the show itself, as every group of participating cars stopped off at roadside stops for stretching of legs and the routine roadside assistance that old cars need,” said FMM’s Workshop Manager Lorenzo Farella. Just over 12 000 visitors to the show were stunned by a unique array of veteran, vintage and classic cars, motorcycles, tractors and farm implements and engines that totalled well over the 1 000 mark. And this year’s British theme saw the fields at the high school venue packed to capacity with entrants arriving from all parts of South Africa. As it was a one day event, there was no space to display extra cars or bikes.
FMM displayed and drove a 1926 Talbot 14/45 for the event, which drew lots of attention, capped by Lorenzo being asked to drive the Mayor’s party for the official opening ceremony of the show.
The show had utilised the school’s classrooms for the display and sale of model
Visiting Fmm
FMM’s opening time are Monday to Friday 10h00 to 18h00 (last admittance 17h00), Saturday and Sunday 10h00 to 17h00 (last admittance 16h00). Visiting the museum is by appointment only and via online booking. Entry fees: R90 adults, R70 pensioners and motor club members (with membership ID), R50 children (ages 3-12). Only electronic payments are accepted.
Had you asked where it was going in the late ‘90s, I’d be impressed breaking the fives by ‘25. But here we are. Ferrari claims 2.9 seconds. We were excited. Never in a month of Sundays did we expect a mid-two.
A miracle launch. Then… warp speed Never mind how
cars, which was a major draw card. Food and refreshment stands were plentiful as well as the stalls selling motoring regalia. Near perfect weather – sunshine alternating with mild cloud cover – contributed to making this one of the most memorable shows in the event’s history, which has seen it cement its status as one of the country’s best classic car events on the annual calendar.
The famed FMM Pitstop Deli is open throughout the visiting hours, offering refreshments, sandwiches, snacks and light meals. There are also counters offering exciting estate products and souvenirs. A selection of wines produced by Anthonij Rupert Wyne is also available. 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
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.
comfortably and easily it does it. Gently to start. No squeak. No twist. No nonsense. You sense the car working it all out. A miracle launch. Then it feeds warp speed in on top of. Again. Oh. My. God! For the record, the Ferrari 296GTS is by quite some considerable distance the fastest car we ever tested. The first sub-ten quarter mile we ever ran too. Suck on that for a second! The critical data is below, as always. Brakes? The best we ever had on the road.
We stop. Watch it tick-tick-ticking in the swelter. Like a Ducati 916, old 458 is among the finest ever purist design renditions. So it’s good grandson here sticks to such solid principles. The aero works. Has record downforce at 250 km/h. Astounding, 296GTS makes a mockery of tractive physics. Deceptively honest to drive. Astoundingly user friendly. Best still, the fastest goddam thing we ever drove. Has me awake late at night figuring what I should mortgage to own it… Stop it already!
ROAD TESTED: Ferrari 296GTS Engine: 619 kW
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).
I keep going back to how gentle the 296 is. But its enthralling by just drive it in Quali mode. Extreme. Used on track it’ll yield one lap, deploy electric the next. Leave it be the animal that tames itself No need for these sunny splendid Cape roads. Punt it, you sense the animal within. Don’t turn off the stability. Leave it be the animal that tames itself. Gives just enough to keep it edgy, Never reveals it’s actually in control. Ferrari racing kudos. I suppose. There’s good reason you think you’re at Le Mans. That one has the same V6 heart. This one’s more street hybrid harvests electricity. At an astounding rate on braking. Switches electric to hybrid to gas like a Prius on nitro. It can be muddled at middle speeds. Breeding? You bet. Far from the beast F40, 296GTS is faster. And makes you feel like God doing it. Astounding to drive. Less fussy than a new C63. More composed than a top 911. And shocking easy to live with.
296GTS sticks to such solid principles
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
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
PEOPLE’S PORSCHE
To most people, even an entrylevel Porsche can only be a dream machine, but 60 years ago the company offered the closest model yet to answering the need. When Porsche launched the 911 back in 1963 it was not oblivious to the fact that the increase in pricing of its all-new design with its flat-six air-cooled engine over the outgoing 356 had placed the company’s products into a higher price bracket. As a result, fewer sales into a smaller niche in the market was anticipated so Porsche’s marketers decided to offer a four-cylinder entry-level model to help offset the 911’s new-found premium status.
After some debate it was decided to power the new car by adapting the Type 616/16 1 582 cm3 boxer motor used in the 1964/65 356SC. With twin Solex carburettors and a lower (9,3:1) compression ratio, the now designated Type 616/36 flat-four developed 70 kW at 5 800 r/min and 122 N.m of torque at 3 500.
As the 356 was phased out, production of the 912 coupé began on 5 April 1965. By this time Porsche had established a reputation for styling, performance, quality construction, reliability – and price – which placed the company in good stead and the 912 appealed to both new and old customers, comfortably outselling the 911. The standard 911 pluspoints of independent suspension and disc brakes all round plus accurate rack and pinion steering were all there to be enjoyed.
In 1967 the 912 contributed to Porsche factory rally history when independent Polish
Traces of this history can be identified in the valley. For example, river stones may be observed near Wemmershoek Primary School, which testify to the fact that the Berg River had meandered from one side of the valley to the other, carving out the valley as it went. The geological foundations described have also set the scene for the ecological systems surrounding us. From the sandy nutrient-poor soil, derived from the extremely hard quartzitic sandstone, the world’s most bio-diverse flora has sprung forth: fynbos. Indeed, the harsh conditions have required our indigenous plant life to be resourceful, adaptive, and evolutionarily creative. It follows that the fauna have also had to acclimatise to this harsh terrain. And yet, the valley’s ecology has provided enough organic matter, mixing with the eroded sedimentary rock and granite, to form soil that is fertile enough to produce some of the world’s finest wines and natural produce. And so we find ourselves entwined in the ongoing geological and ecological story of the land in our valley. If this story piqued your interest, Nick’s books can be purchased or ordered from your local book vendor. His publications include Going to Ground, Box of Rocks, Geology Off the Beaten Track, The Extraordinary World of Diamonds, and Geological Journeys. For more information about Nick, you can visit his website: https://www.nicknormanbook.com/.
Text: Leila Shirley | Image: Nick Norman
driver Sobieslaw Zasada drove a factoryloaned 912 to win the Rally of Poland and went on to capture the European Rally Championship for Group 1 cars. In the same year, the 912 won American magazine Car and Driver’s Readers Choice Poll for its class. In 1969 the magazine published a road test by the late champion racing driver Mark Donohue in which he said, “You’ve got to admire Porsche for getting so much out of a relatively small engine… I was most impressed with the handling. The cars have remarkable suspension systems”.
Then for the 1969 model year, Porsche concluded that continuing with the 912 was not viable due to a number of factors, one of which was that production facilities used for the car were being reallocated to a new 914-6 model. Porsche produced nearly 30 000 coupés and about 2 500 Targa versions during the 912’s near-six year lifespan.
A strong performer in its heyday, it makes for a perfect modern day classic, lacking temperament while giving off all the right 911 vibes. The 912 has stood the test of time, and FMM’s 1965 Coupe is currently on view in Hall D.
Nick Norman with the Wemmershoek Mountains in the background.
Gardening in May
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.
For those still in denial about 2025, March is the month of reality. This year surely came quickly, and by now, most of us should have caught up with the pace of change that it brought. Wars, rumours of war, a shift in global politics and geo-economics, famine, drought, genocide and economic collapse are being thrown at us through a highly active and biased mainstream media, with a new wave of citizen journalists keeping the balance and bringing up-to-the-minute reporting of events that we might not even want to know about. As the world erupts in all sorts of chaos and futile attempts at restructuring, it is in the garden that I find rest for my soul and restoration of my sense of independence and liberty.
Creating your own special little world is a revolutionary act in times of globalisation. So is growing your own food. The lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 taught us many lessons. Forcing the population into their homes ignited many an old hobby, and people became experts at anything from electronics, book restoration, and wood- and metal work, to rare plant propagation and natural health. Many turned these renewed interests into home businesses, bringing a new sense of independence and freedom. With the lifting of the lockdown measures, we could not wait to get out and pursue our regular comforts and interests. Many now find themselves back in the trap they were before, having forgotten about the food and beverages they made, the greenhouse they’ve built, or the money they made selling home bakes. It is time to get back into our gardens and kitchens; for our own health and that of the planet. March is the last of our true summer months. The days are hot but are getting shorter. Cool and humid mornings give the plants a break and the garden gets a chance to show off. Proper irrigation planning and maintenance of your mulch layer is still very important as we wait for the autumn rains. Your rose and cut flower garden should be a sight for sore eyes. Roses still need some care; watch out for disease, deadhead regularly and feed with a fertiliser high in potash. Make sure you keep your vases and those of your friends full. A home-grown bunch of flowers always makes an
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.
impressive gift. Speaking of your friends, March is a big propagation month. Agapanthus, Watsonia, Dietes, daylilies, Iris, Aristea, and most other spring and summer flowering perennials can now be divided. Do this to renew old plantings, but also to increase your garden and share and swap with friends. Split only healthy plants and discard all the old and unhealthy bits. Agapanthus should be dusted with some sulphur if you had a problem with rot in the past. Plant the splits in enriched soil with bonemeal or super phosphate added. Dipel (as in Biological Caterpillar insecticide) is a very effective biological control against the caterpillar that is often a problem with agapanthus plantings in the Western Cape.
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 diligent gardener will find their vegetable garden brimming with sweetcorn, pumpkins, butternuts, watermelons, tomatoes, aubergine, chillies and green beans. Pick daily and discard all fallen or diseased fruit. Spent plants should be removed now and the beds prepared for winter planting. Sow cabbages, broccoli and cauliflower in seed beds for later transplant. It is too early for peas, but a final sowing of green beans can still be made. Cover crops can also be sown now – sweet lupins work well to trap nitrogen and be dug in as green manure later. Citrus trees need regular watering and feeding with a high-nitrogen fertiliser. This is the last active growing month for olive trees, and they will require a final high potash fertiliser. Deciduous fruits and grape vines should get about a third of their yearly fertiliser requirements after harvest in autumn.
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.
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.
The kitchen is a hot buzz this time of the year. Apart from all the summer veggies that need pickling we also have the neighbouring farms deep into their grape and plum harvest. Grapes make great jams, jellies and cordials and it is worth experimenting with. Maybe it is time to also try your hand at some home winemaking.
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
Happy gardening
ANSCHE GROBLER
Henri Louw: The Barista with a Heart for Community
Henri Louw is one of those people you meet and realize from the first conversation that he embodies humbleness and hospitality in such a beautiful way. I met Henri as a client back in 2022 and noticed that he might be quiet, but when he speaks, you have to listen.
Originally from Gauteng, Henri matriculated from the School of Achievement in Germiston. He had a deep appreciation for school, particularly for hospitality and tourism, but his journey wasn’t without its challenges. Born with epilepsy, he faced obstacles that made completing school difficult. However, thanks to the support of his family, teachers, the school nurse, and even his classmates he persevered. In 2008, Henri suffered a severe stroke that forced him to relearn even the most basic skills. Looking back, he remains grateful for his progress and the steadfast support of those who helped him along the way.
After school, Henri worked for two years in his uncle’s paint factory before enrolling at the International Hotel School. Realizing that hospitality wasn’t quite the path he wanted to follow, he switched gears and completed a wine course through the Cape Wine Academy. The dream of moving to the Winelands took hold, and when his sister began studying in Stellenbosch, the dream unfolded. While helping his mother move his sister’s belongings, they drove through Franschhoek, a town his mother had always dreamed of calling home. With a leap of faith, she inquired about housing, and in 2021, they made the move.
Henri quickly integrated into the community, with his mother securing a job at Seeff Franschhoek and the church helping them settle in. While waiting for his results from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, Henri developed a love for the coffee from Get Lost Coffee Shop—thanks to his mother regularly bringing him takeaways while he was studying. One day he decided to visit the shop in person. A casual conversation with the owners, Darren and Eliisa Graney, led to an opportunity. With prior barista experience, Henri offered to volunteer, and Darren invited him to start the following Monday. Three years later, Henri is still behind the counter, crafting coffee for locals and tourists.
A year into his time at Get Lost, Darren
Fleur de Lis News
ANITA GOUWS
Fleur de Lis tehuis vir bejaardes is etlike jare al ‘n begunstigde van die Franschhoek Open Gardens Fees.
Ons gee graag aan hulle – en in besonder vir Pat Jacobs – erkenning vir wat hulle alles vir ons moontlik gemaak het. Met behulp van hulle skenkens het ons ‘n dubbele motor huis in twee woonstelle omskep, ‘n boorgat gesink en watertenks gekoop, kameras in ons leefreg woonstelle geïnstalleer, rekenaarskerms aangekoop, rookverklikkers geïnstalleer in die tehuis, ‘n isolasiekamer ingerig gedurend COVID en nou het ons begin om die badkamers in die tehuis oor te doen.
Terwyl heelwat alreeds gedoen is, is daar egter nog steeds ‘n lys van dinge waarvoor ons wens. Ons sal bv. baie graag die buitemure wil verf en ons asbesgeute met aluminium vervang. Daar is ook altyd ‘n lysie kleiner goed waarvoor ons om donasies vra, soos bv.
Einstein on Education – ‘Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think’. FRANCO’s annual education bursary awards help local high school and university students in this regard, as well as those engaged in specialized learning at various colleges. The aim is to provide them with a strong foundation for gainful subsequent employment and personal development and growth.
This year, we have granted 27 study bursaries, 9 of which are for existing recipients whose grades for the past year met our demanding standards.
approached Henri with a new business venture— introducing ice cream to the shop. Henri eagerly embraced the challenge, and with the help of his father, he navigated the necessary paperwork to bring Dream Gelato to life.
Henri firmly believes in the saying, “Kwaliteit vat tyd” (quality takes time). In a world that often rushes by headlong, he reminds customers that good coffee is worth the wait. Of course, the job isn’t without its mishaps—like when he drenched himself in almond milk and coffee while making an iced drink. In the moment, he questioned whether this was a sign of how the year would unfold, but today, the memory (and the photographic evidence) makes for a good laugh.
“This town has given me peace of mind but also in the same breath made my life quite busy, but I like the balance.” While he dreams of travelling the world, Franschhoek will always be home. He appreciates the close-knit nature of the village, where the electrician lives next door and the seamstress is just across the street. “I used to wonder why people say Franschhoek is like a bubble, but now I understand. I hope we stay this connected ten years from now.”
Beyond coffee and gelato, Henri is always eager to learn new skills, like playing the acoustic and electric guitar. He lives by the Spanish saying, Paso corto, vista larga – short steps, long vision – a philosophy that mirrors his steady and determined approach to life.
So, the next time you’re craving a quality cup of coffee or a refreshing gelato, stop by Get Lost Coffee in Franschhoek Square. You just might find Henri behind the counter, ready to serve up something special.
A heartfelt thank you to Henri and all the baristas in town who keep our energy levels high and create spaces where community thrives!
plantbokse vir van die inwoners met groen vingers wat graag ‘n tuintjie wil maak.
Ons opregte dank aan elke persoon en instansie wat skenkings aan die tehuis gee. Julle is altyd welkom om te kom inloer!
Their diverse study subjects range from teaching, law, eco-ranging, and hospitality to nursing. Where necessary, we also assist them with transport costs.
Towards the end of each year, we seek suitable new applicants, typically selected from our local schools.
Nine labourers registered for our Unemployed Support Group. Funded by FRANCO, they are currently providing invaluable help in deepening a river course blocked by stones and silt as a result of flooding after the heavy rains last year.
Watch this space next month for details of our annual fundraiser, which is planned for late April. Last year it was flamenco dancing and dinner at La Cotte, which was a sell-out.
We, as always, welcome contributions both in kind and monetary, for our various community projects. If interested, please contact our chief operating officer, Tzilka Watson, on 060 374 0353 for relevant information.
NDAMANE
Can You Believe It?!
The Franschhoek Valley Community Sport Centre is 10 years old. On 15 January 2025, the centre celebrated a decade of bringing joy, fun, unforgettable memories and countless achievements to the local community.
Athi Ndamane, the centre’s manager, said: “From its opening on 15 January 2015, this facility has tried to be a beacon of hope, unity and opportunity in the diverse Groendal Franschhoek community.
During the following 10 years our centre has reached thousands of children, youth and adults offering a safe space to grow, learn, realise potential and shine!”
He continued by thanking Hope Through Action “for gifting us this incredible facility and to all our
SCORE colleagues over the years for their leadership, coaching, mentoring, facilitation, teaching, sharing and teamwork! Thank you also to our volunteers and YeBoneers!” And a very big ‘Thank You’ to all our donors, partners and supporters, and to the community of Franschhoek! Together we have worked to turn this wonderful facility into a place that brings hope and positive change.”
The centre celebrated the milestone birthday by enjoying a slice of cake, sharing memories and committing themselves to “continue building a legacy of joy, inclusivity, and excellence for generations to come!”
• facilitate social contacts between from different countries and in doing to the understanding between nations.
and environmental studies among young people;
• 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;
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
Franschhoek United Football Club would like to thank Lynx Wine Estate for sponsoring their new track suits. In the photo, the
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Bridge
SA’s top young geographer, Destin
Siegfried Schäfer
Dear Readers,
Early in February, I attended a public meeting where consulting engineers presented their proposals for flood mitigation along the La Cotte Stream. I must say, I was rather nervous about what they were going to propose. I still shake my head whenever I think of the proposal that was made about 13 years ago to simply chase a concrete channel through the entire village – with no regard to the aesthetics or ambience of the receiving environment.
This time around, I do feel that the engineers have tried to create something that, in addition to the obvious flood mitigation requirements, at least
As a visitor to Franschhoek every year twice a year for 29years I wanted to say how disappointed my husband and I are with the service received in Franschhoek. Having been to the top ten restaurants and more in the village not one has delivered the perfect experience. As an outsider we find the experience in most restaurants to be disappointing and we wonder if it’s due to the fact that the owners are very rarely at the restaurants themselves. From dirty uniforms to complacent employees Franschhoek had it all this year. We remember arriving in Franschhoek all those years ago to be greeted at the door of restaurants by the owners whether it was Mrs S Huxter at Le Quartier, Peter and Bradley at Chez Michel, Matthew at
offers the opportunity to be made into something that is more than just an ugly engineering intervention. In particular, I believe it creates the opportunity to create a pedestrian path linking Huguenot St to Cabrière St along the flat bottom of the gabion-lined channel. This path would be usable most of the year when water levels in the stream are low.
It is a pity that many trees will be lost, but as many (most?) of them are alien species – particularly blue gums and poplars – I’d happily see them replaced with indigenous trees. The stately old oak trees (most of which I suspect have rotten cores), I will however miss. In any event, the village will have an opportunity to regreen sections of the river course once construction is completed. Perhaps somebody will take the initiative to organise a tree planting day…
I believe an unintended benefit of the proposals will be to drive out the anti-social and criminal element
French Connection or Kalfi at Kalfis! The owners had an interest in their business! Not anymore!
From taking a spoon off an occupied table next door to hand to me by the spoon end to being ignored at the entrance to the restaurant. Wrong food, delayed delivery of food and cold food we have experienced it all in eight weeks! And yet when it comes to tip time attitudes change.
Franschhoek is known as the culinary capital and the prices reflect that and yet your service is atrocious. We can honestly say it was so disappointing this year! It makes us wonder if it is worth revisiting maybe the village has outgrown itself. Is staff trained beforehand or train on the job? Do owners care about repeat business? Is it a lot to ask for a clean uniform? Staff has menu knowledge! Staff can hand a drink via the stem simple things. Not a lot expect especially when paying a premium for eating in Franschhoek!
Yours Gary Scott
Franschhoek Leeskring
HESTER STRŰMPFER
Franschhoek Leeskring
SUSAN MÖLLER
INVITATION: Readers are invited to a discussion by award-winning author and translator Michiel Heyns of his latest novel. ‘A Poor Season for Whales’. This gripping psychological drama is set in Hermanus. 13 March, Dutch Reformed Church Hall, 14h30, Cost R50p.p. RSVP please.
By die volgende byeenkoms van die Franschhoek Leeskring, wat op 7 Julie plaasvind, bespreek Danie du Toit Francois Smith se “Die getuienis”. Die byeenkoms word gehou in die NG Kerksaal. Lede en besoekers geniet vooraf n koffie koffie/tee met verrigtinge wat om 15h00 begin.
* * *
Navrae: 0729325393
Ons het ‘n wonderlike bespreking gehad op 6 Februarie waar Daniël Lotter sy boek, ‘Bloubloed’ bespreek het. Op die foto is: Ingrid Martitz, Daniël Lotter en Elbie Lans.
Hester Strümpfer - 084 900 9060
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.
Hospice News
COLLEEN DOUGLAS
“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.
Dancing Joyfully for Kusasa
Celebrating Bastille? Franschhoek Hospice will be selling the following items on the 16th and 17th July at the village market and main road: Berets, Red, Royal and Navy – R 50 each, Pancakes – R10 each and freshly-baked Croissants filled with smoke salmon/trout and cream cheese – R50 – available on the veranda of the town hall.
The Kusasa Project celebrated 18 years of service to the Franschhoek Valley at its annual fundraiser hosted at Leopard’s Leap on 7 February. The Kusasa Project has its own fully accredited, independent but privately funded school – The Kusasa Academy in the Groendal Sports Grounds – where it continues to provide the highest level of education to 150 children, aged 4 to 10, from under-resourced communities.
Please diarise the following dates: 27 August – Nik Rabinowitz presents – “Unmuted” at Leopard’s Leap – R400 per person, incudes a delicious light supper. Tickets available from the hospice office. Limited seating, 120 seats only.
that seems to have taken up more or less permanent occupation of the currently overgrown section between Huguenot and Cabrière Streets. Whatever landscaping is done post-construction, must also take account of the requirement not inadvertently to create shelter for undesirable activities. Trees and grass are all that is needed, in my view. Naturally, a project of this scope will take several years to implement and has to be done in phases. First, though, will be the official environmental impact assessment, which—depending on how things go—can take anywhere from six months to three years. This, of course, has some property owners worried. What if there is another torrential downpour this winter? The municipality, however,
was quick to reassure residents that extra teams will be on hand to keep streams and stormwater infrastructure clear of debris and obstructions. This is all well and good, but riparian landowners and the general public must also come to the proverbial party. Firstly, they must ensure that there are no blockages where streams pass through their properties, and then ensure that their own flood remediation measures don’t cause a bigger problem for downstream properties. The general public can also contribute to flood readiness by reporting any potential problems, like shrubbery in streambeds and blocked stormwater drains to the municipality in good time. Until next month!
Let’s protect our furry friends
If ever anyone has felt lonely or afraid and they have entered a place and been welcomed by a tail-wagging dog, they will know what it means to be loved by an animal. They might also appreciate the responsibility we have in protecting our animals. They cannot articulate their needs or fears and ask for very little other than some food and water and, in return, give unconditional love.
The SPCA works tirelessly in rescuing animals, preventing cruelty, promoting kindness, specifically through eliminating dog fighting and teaching school going children how to take care of their pets. To date this year, our team has treated 2796 animals, sterilized 139 animals, conducted 1055 inspections and homed or re-homed 31 animals.
The team is small – one inspector with two assistants
who take it in turns to be on duty over weekends. Sadly, we cannot recognize their commitment through meaningful salaries. During the last 6 months, we incurred a loss of R21600. About 50 percent of our expenditure goes towards salaries and the next largest expenditure pays Lakato, the organization that removes our carcasses and incinerates them. At our current cost rate, we have sufficient funds to operate for 5 months. The committee is equally small. Erica and Alex McCormack recently resigned. Fortunately, Arlene Tobin and Keenan Hendriks kindly stepped forward to compliment the remaining committee members –Polly Meyer, Nikki de Havilland and Alastair Cunningham. Fortunately we have wonderful local supporters, particularly Jonathan Peach of Build it, who has recently, at his own expense, rebuilt our kennels and is currently reflooring our clinic. Despite this kindness, funding remains a major problem, and we appeal to anyone who cares about animals and has the means, to help the SPCA. Our banking details are:
Nedbank Franschhoek, Branch Code 167005, Account number 1670019365.
Thank you for helping us to continue helping the animals of Franschhoek and surrounding areas.
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
Karate Tournament Success
Four Connectivity Hacks for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers Abroad
There are estimated to be between 30 and 40 million digital nomads worldwide, according to global non-profit youth travel industry membership specialist WYSE Travel Confederation.
The arrival of the pandemic and the corresponding rise of remote work propelled a massive shift in people’s mindsets. They realised they could do their jobs from anywhere on the planet while enjoying a flexible work-life balance that allowed them to explore new cultures and experiences.
Some, like travel blogger Inma Gregorio, have been traversing the globe for 15 years. At one point, Canada, the US, Germany, Portugal, France, the UK, Morocco, and Hungary served as his home base.
Of course, the digital nomad movement is highly dependent on digital connectivity. Whether working from a beachside café or a mountaintop cabin, digital nomads need the right tools to stay online. Here are four essential hacks to help nomads thrive while working abroad.
Computer backups
Working in a foreign land is exciting, but every country has its risks associated with crime. This is why it is so essential for digital nomads to back up their computers at least once a week, either to the cloud or onto an external hard drive that you don’t keep on you. A laptop or desktop is a working traveller’s bread and butter, and having devices “disappear” will incur the loss of important files and documents, not to mention essential connectivity. You might want to make sure you’re insured as well!
eSIMs
eSIM technology has revolutionised connectivity by embedding a programmable SIM directly into devices, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards. Some of the world’s biggest content creators swear by them.
Penelope Bielckus, better known as “The Flyaway Girl,” has travelled to Spain, Italy, Malta, Greece, France, and the UK in the past few months. Before eSIMs became available, she had an entire purse dedicated to SIM cards worldwide.
“When I finally got a phone that supported eSIMs and tried one, I was immediately converted. The ease of installing it on your phone without needing to replace the physical SIM card and then worrying about misplacing your usual SIM card is incredible. You don’t need to find a store to purchase a SIM card at your destination.”
Global eSIM service provider KnowRoaming recently launched its best-ever Global Unlimited eSIM plans (3-Day Plan ($7.99), 5-Day Plan ($11.99), 10-Day Plan ($22.99) or 15-Day Plan ($34,99) for travellers who want high-speed data on demand.
For the best experience, opt for a dual-SIM phone or one with multi-eSIM capabilities. These devices let you effortlessly switch between eSIM profiles, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity anywhere.
Power banks
Staying connected often means charging your device, so carrying a power bank will ensure your device has enough battery life.
Work emergencies are not limited to the office and must be dealt with immediately, even if nomads work from a tropical beach bar. The ideal power bank for working travellers can offer five or more charges. The best ones can support both cell phones and laptops.
However, there is a slight caution: power banks are not allowed in checked baggage at airports, given fears about battery discharge.
But even carrying one in hand luggage can be a problem in some countries, which apply different size limits. Digital nomads should always check airport security policies ahead of time.
Use apps offline
Using offline apps like Google Maps ensures nomads stay connected to critical information even when internet access is spotty. However, offline maps, such as traffic conditions, might not include real-time updates.
Another great offline app is Apache OpenOffice Portable, which offers a word processor, spreadsheets, and even a slideshow creator. It allows users to stay connected to their work responsibilities without being connected to the internet. And because it is portable, no installation is necessary. This is fantastic for people on the move.
Meanwhile, for those in the number-crunching game, the Chrome app Unit Converter enables nomads to convert units of measurement to what they require.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied
Let the Lawyer Handle It
GRAEME FALCK
Do You Need a Second Will for your Overseas Assets?
“Only put off until tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.” (Pablo Picasso)
If you own assets outside South Africa, you may have wondered: Is my local will enough? Why your South African will may not always be enough.
A South African will can cover all your local and global assets and typically will do so unless otherwise specified. But practical and legal challenges can arise when dealing with foreign laws, tax regimes and regulations:
• Delays and costs: If your executor has to deal with assets in another country this can take considerable time and incur additional legal fees for authentication/translation of documents, applications to recognise appointments and so on.
• Legal conflicts: Many countries have “forced heirship” rules that will override the provisions of your will and require that specified portions of your estate must go to “protected” heirs. In France, for example, your children will inherit up to 75% of your estate. Worse, some legal systems may not recognise your local will as being valid at all.
You might anyway benefit from a foreign will if:
1. You own immovable property abroad: Immovable property is generally subject to the laws of the country in which it is situated, making a foreign will advisable.
2. You have significant movable assets overseas: Movables such as investments, shares, bank accounts etc, although likely subject to South African legal principles, could still be easier to manage with a separate will.
3. You spend a lot of time in another country: Regular visits or dual residency could complicate estate administration and make a foreign will an advantage – even if it’s not strictly necessary.
4. You want to minimise your estate’s tax bill: A foreign will might be recommended to you as part of tax planning, which is essential to minimise the risks of double taxation, estate duties and other financial penalties on your foreign assets. This is because we have a residence-based taxation system so SARS will – with
few exceptions - be looking at all your assets worldwide. How a foreign will works
A foreign will is drafted according to the laws of the country where your assets are located, and should:
• Ensure compliance with that country’s laws and regulations
• Work alongside your South African will to avoid duplication or conflict
• Simplify the process for your loved ones when the time comes to administer your estate. Legal advice is crucial as your South African and foreign wills must align. Contradictions might render one or both wills invalid or open to challenge. When drafting your will(s) be careful to:
• Ensure that your various wills clearly specify which of your assets each applies to.
• Avoid inadvertently revoking your other will/s –specify in each will that it does not replace your other wills, which are to remain valid concurrently.
• Not allow duplication or conflict to creep in over time. Separate wills should be structured to streamline and simplify the administration process in different jurisdictions.
Ensuring that your wishes are honoured and that your loved ones are protected starts with the right legal advice. If you’re unsure whether you need a foreign will, let’s talk.
(This article first appeared in LawDotNews and is reproducedwithpermissionfromthecopyrightholder DotNews and from Falck Incorporated Attorneys. GraemeFalckisanexperiencedcommercialattorney, litigant and conveyancer that resides in Franschhoek, with his practice in Stellenbosch. Graeme consults in Franschhoek. Contact him on 082 8948075 or graeme@falckmb.co.za)
Everard Read Gallery |
Current exhibitions
20 Huguenot Street.
Everard Read was founded in 1913. It is the oldest and largest group of art galleries in Africa. Since its inception, Everard Read has been dedicated to exhibiting paintings and sculptures by SA’s finest modern and contemporary artists. Their website is used as a historical archive to reflect the trajectory of their artists’ work and as a resource for historians, journalists, students, and art enthusiasts.
The Franschhoek galleries comprise Leeu Estate and the 20 Huguenot Street gallery. Both galleries are managed by Lulu Read and her team. They represent gallery artists and associated artists of high standing and recognition in the art community. Everard Read Franschhoek offers a comprehensive and expert service of advising on building a collection and strategically managing private art collections. The Art Residency has been attended by many local and international artists at the Leeu Estates Gallery and Studio. Strauss & Co is their partner in valuations and research of historical works.
When entering the gallery, two large bronze and stone sculptures stand as sentinels. These imposing sculptures are part of a recent Angus Taylor exhibition ‘The Weight of Wings’ The artist reminds us of wings as a metaphor for freedom, which also comes with responsibility and respect
Book Review
Fire
by John Boyne, Publ. Doubleday.
167 pages
John Boyne is a distinguished Irish author, perhaps best known for “The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas” and “The Heart’s Invisible Furies”, but also for many other prize-winning novels. A few years ago he announced that he was embarking on a series of four novellas based on the theme of the four elements. In the first, “Water” a middle-aged woman exiles herself from Dublin to a tiny island surrounded by the sea that represents her attempt to cleanse herself from a horrible crime that had affected her. Her husband had raped several girls, amongst whom his own daughter, and had been sent to prison. She finds some consolation in her relationship with a young man on the island. In the second book, “Earth” a young gay soccer player from Ireland achieves some success in London, but then gets caught up in a sex ring and ends up in court on a charge of rape because he, rather unwillingly, had filmed his buddy having sex with his girlfriend. The theme of uprootedness from the earth of Ireland plays some role in the story. Now in the third novella “Fire”, the interplay between sexual violence and male/ female power is again the central theme. The difference is that the main perpetrator is a very talented medical professional specializing in the treatment of fire injuries. Freya is not only clever, she is also very sexy (by her own admission), but her life has been scarred by an episode when she was 12, when she was raped and subsequently buried alive by a pair of delinquent twins, only two years older than her. The main thrust of this narrative is her life of vengeance, told by her in a cold, dispassionate way. Her tone of intelligent explanation and of matter-of-fact recall of events bely her murderous and callous actions as she exacts her revenge. Because she tells her story to us, we have to take her words at face value. This is quite complicated because, by any measurement, she is a monster. An intelligent monster,
for our planet. On the side wall of the gallery, a striking Arabella Caccia cobalt blue and bronze pigment work is installed titled ‘A Constellation.’
Many sculptures of acclaimed South African artists can be viewed in the garden. Other gallery artists represented are Deborah Bell, Beezy Bailey, Nic Bladen, Norman Catherine, Guy du Toit, Phillemon Hlungwani, Brett Murray and Nigel Mullins, to mention but a few.
The current exhibition, ‘A Sacred Matter’ by CATHY ABRAHAM can be viewed until 8 March. Cathy Abraham completed her MFA with distinction in 2018 at the Michaelis School of Fine Arts, UCT. She works in film, mixed media, installation, painting and sculpture. Her choice of media, and is primarily informed by her subject matter. Her artist statement for ‘A Sacred Matter’ is the following “My commitment to counting as an underlying structure aspires toward this most sacred matter – our human connection to one another and the world”. She says of her art “My practice is deeply rooted in repetition as a material prayer. Invoking transformation and healing, these prayers address past sufferings that continue to haunt the present. Appearing as shadows in the overlapping ‘ghosts’ of colliding brushstrokes, such hauntings give form to otherwise formless traumas, the apparitions tracing the wound in its residue.” ‘Spectral Gold’ an oil and gold leaf on dyed indigo linen, is described by the artist as “unfolding with numbers, symmetries and ritual action is meditative and devotional, a means of transcending the self towards an understanding of the interconnected miraculous nature of all beings” This painting is both reflective and hypnotic.
BARBARA WILDENBOER’s latest exhibition
which probably makes her more culpable, and less deserving of our sympathy.
We are reminded that she lives in an entwined, sick society because her mother’s potential husband turns out to be the rapist of the first novella and Freya herself, in the second one, had been involved in the trial of the soccer player. In fact, the whole facade of the hospital with its various trauma units, is a complex connected force field of sexual exploitation and violence. The thread of the story follows Freya’s history of setting up situations through which she can lure relatively innocent boys of around 14 into her flat where she cunningly seduces them, getting intense pleasure out of the relative helplessness of her young victims.
Boyne truly creates a Frankensteinian monster as he delves into her mind and allows her to tells us in her own words how much she is enjoying this violation.
In addition to the present series of boy rapes, we learn that her assistant in the burn unit, with whom she has a strange off-hand relationship, turns out to have been one of her victims. And, if that isn’t enough, there is another crime that she committed in the past. She exacted vengeance on the twins who tortured her, thereby incidentally killing her mother and her lover, by setting fire to their house and burning them all to death. Even by the standard of most horror stories that would have been vengeance enough…
But by her macabre standards, as described in her own cold words, she was compelled to mete out justice (in her own terms) without end, while at the same time achieving some weird sense of atonement by caring for burn victims in the hospital unit.
This trail of crimes is only terminated when her assistant becomes her Nemesis by informing the police. The book ends abruptly with her having to contemplate suicide or flight to another country, to avoid the police that are closing in on her.
The result is a bit of a con on the author’s part, because the story has been told by a character who is about to disappear. It is difficult to judge the success of the book. It is written terribly well. One reads it compulsively, hating oneself for doing so, but also being morbidly interested in the outcome. But one does not feel the better for it. “Air” (out in May) might tie together the four elements and, in the process, leave one more satisfied.
‘Articulations’ opens on 15 March. The artist obtained an MFA (Cum Laude) from Michaelis School of Art at UCT in 2007. She has been awarded several international residencies and selected as one of the 20 finalists for the Sovereign African Arts Award, for which she received the Public Choice Prize. Barbara uses a combination of analogue and digital processes to create work that mostly consists of collages, photo and paper construction, installation, digitally animated collage works and book art. Her trademark ‘altered books’ function as narrative clues, intertexts or ‘subtitles’ accompanying the other works, referring to
subjects ranging from ancient history, archaeology and fractal geometry to psychoanalysis. The altered book series ‘Library of the Infinitesimally Small and Unimaginable Large (2011-present) was inspired by a short story by the Argentinian writer Jorge Luis Borges titled ‘The Library of Babel’. In this largescale ongoing project, she uses the library as a metaphor for the universe.
The art of Barbara Wildenboer has a special significance for book lovers and the many readers who belong to book clubs, in Franschhoek.
www.everard-read-franschhoek.co.za
GARDENER: My name is Jackson Mwazembe. I’m a Malawian and looking for a job as a gardener. I have 3 years’ experience. 081 364 8810
GARDENER: I’m Lisungu Siska, a 27-year-old Malawian man. I have 4 years’ experience as a gardener and good references. I am reliable, friendly and can work independently with minimum supervision. I am also eager to learn new skills. My contact no. is 067 052 7292. For references: 082 655 5995 and 078 908 5462.
CLEANER: My name is Jamila John. I’m 27 years old and looking for a house cleaning job. I have more than 5 years’ experience and will be glad if anyone responds to my proposal. 060 442 3291
GARDENING or OTHER JOB: I’m Evance Makiyi and am looking for a gardening or any other job. Please help me. Thank you. 069 392 5670
GARDENER: My name is Isaac Phiri. I’m a Malawian with four year’s gardening experience and am looking for a gardening position. Thank you. 073 768 1226
GENERAL WORK: My name is Bongiwe Ntantiso and I live in Franschhoek. I’m willing to take any kind of job. I can work as a general worker, housekeeper, baby sitter, carer for the elderly or puppies. I have 2 years’ experience. I worked at Longlands Country Estate (Stellenbosch). I’m a hard worker and wise thinker and like to work in a team. Thank you for your time. 078 776 3460 / 064 053 8456
DOMESTIC or NANNY: I am Julia Senfle. I am looking for work as a domestic or nanny. I have experience in all fields. My phone is 065 661 4759 / 061 515 6282. I’m available on WhatApp or calls.
HOUSEKEEPER / DOMESTIC: I’m Charity Nyirenda, a 27 year-old Malawian Lady. I have four years’ experience in housekeeping and cleaning. I can confirm to you that I’m reliable, trustworthy and friendly. I can work independently with minimum supervision and am eager to learn whatever job description may be given. Call 067 052 7292 or WhatApp 071 793 3901. DOMESTIC or NANNY: I am Nberiwe Tyalisisu. I’m looking for domestic work or a nanny job. I have experience in all fields. Call 079 813 0133 or WhatsApp 078 162 8011. GATEHOUSE to rent in town in Franschhoek. Fully Furnished. Avail. 01/03/25, R19k p/m (All Incl. ) Call 083 348 1230
PLATTER GUIDES: Lifetime collection of Platter Wine Guides for sale. Every issue from highly sought-after first-ever 1980 edition to 2020 edition. All in excellent condition. R29k. WhatsApp 082 391 5327.
SERVICES OFFERED: I’m Theo de Koker (formerly of Cathmar). I offer the following services: 1. DSTV installation, 2. Surround sound installation, 3. Electric Fence service, 4. CCTV installation, 5. Laptop repairs, 7. Programming of remotes. Contact me at: 082 822 7349 Need a PET/HOUSE-SITTER with good references? Contact Ronelle @ 073 646 1687
RE-THINKING YOUR GARDEN? For Garden Consulting call Susan at 072 932 5393 PET / HOUSE SITTING: Tina Stanley. Trusted pet & house sitter in Franschoek, WC. Reliable care for your pets & home, ensuring peace of mind while you’re away. Contact 083 448 4951 for bookings & references.
RE-FIBRE GLASS YOUR POOL in any colour you like. Call RiaPools for a quote: 072 347 5355
CHANGING TO A SALT WATER SYSTEM? Let us advise & quote for you! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 POOL PUMP PROBLEMS? Noise? We quote and help you out! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
STUFF WANTED: All manner of clothing and household items needed for our ‘First Friday of The Month’ jumble sales. Please help us to help the animals of the valley. Please drop off at the SPCA clinic in La Provence Street, Groendal, or phone for us to collect. 021 876 4808 FRESH, ORGANIC FARM PRODUCE: Delivered weekly to Franschhoek, including vegetables and fruit in season, chicken, eggs, cheese, honey, etc. Lists of available produce received on Monday, orders placed on Tuesday for Wednesday delivery. A number of Franschhoekers are already receiving weekly deliveries. To be added to the list contact Sue Norman on 083 321 3442 or suenorman50@outlook.com.
DO YOU STILL HAVE THAT POOL LEAK? Losing water all the time? Let us quote and take care of the problem! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
PROFESSIONAL POOL SERVICE REQUIRED? Keep it local! Get a quote. Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 HOUSE/PET SITTER: I have worked with animals for over 20 years. I need to bring my 16-year-old dog with me. He sleeps all day and is not a barker. Fees are reasonable and references are available. Internet access essential. For further details call Rentia 072 324 3882.
Community Events
SPORT
FRANSCHHOEK TENNIS CLUB: Social tennis is played at the club on Fridays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 08h30. For more information contact Nicky. 082 455 6411 PARKRUN: Saturdays at Rickety Bridge Wine Estate. Time: 08h00. Cost: Free. Register at www.parkrun.co.za
CHURCH SERVICES
METHODIST CHURCH: Sunday service 10h00. Rev Russell Norman. 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509.
NG KERK: Sondagdienste 09h30. Geen aanddiens. Ds Peet Bester. 021 876 2431. Besoekers welkom.New Apostolic Church: Le Roux Street, Groendal. Sundays 09h00, Wednesdays 19h30. Rector: Charles Leibrandt.
ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Groot
Drakenstein. Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Revd Wilfred Meyer 084 407 1280. Office - 021 874 4008. willowdale@cybersmart.co.za
SHOFAR CHRISTIAN CHURCH: Services - 09h00 & 18h00 English services at 7 Lambrechts Street. Pastor Richard Wade. 083 225 8529. All welcome!
UNITING REFORMED CHURCH: Sunday service 09h30. Dr Shaun Burrows. 021 876 2632. Visitors welcome.
GENERAL
Alcoholics Anonymous: WED evenings 19:00, Groendal Community Centre, Contact David +27 83 305 5159
Useful Numbers
ACCOUNTANTS
Tax Shop 021 876 2676
ATTORNEYS
Stb
RELEASE SOLD IN TWO WEEKS
Franschhoek Village
4 Beds | 4 Baths | 2 Receptions
SOLD IN JUST TWO WEEKS
This exceptional family home, nestled in a picturesque village location bordering La Cotte farm, was quickly snapped up. The charming thatch property offers a serene and private setting, with uninterrupted views of vineyards and majestic mountains beyond.
*Marketing Price
62 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek 021 007 0673 | www.greeff.co.za
Fransche Hoek Estate
3 Beds | 3 Baths | 3 Receptions
250 000
Exceptional Family Home With Breathtaking Views
This remarkable residence on the Fransche Hoek Estate offers stunning vistas and showcases unparalleled elegance and refinement. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, this home blends sophistication with comfort, creating a welcoming and luxurious environment for family living.
Scan QR code to view properties
Revitalise Your Home Workspace with Colour
Ways of working have evolved with the rise of hybrid and remote working options. As a result, it is essential to create a home workspace that will help us thrive, and that is conducive to productivity, health and happiness.
“Choosing the right hue for your home workspace is key to creating a space that will help you stay focused and calm. You’ll want to choose a shade that not only inspires you during creativity lulls but is also pleasant to look at throughout your 9-to-5 grind. Our Colour of the Year 2025, True Joy™ is the perfect starting point for any decorative scheme. It works beautifully on its own, adding creative energy, optimism, pride and imagination to any home office and acts as a foundation colour for other shades”, says Dulux Colour Expert, Palesa Ramaisa.
‘’Whether your office is a tiny nook, a cluttered spare
palette, you can completely transform the mood of your workspace”, adds Ramaisa. Bold and zestful
This is a space that urges you to leave your comfort zone and inject adventure into your work with bright and uplifting colours. A place that feels enlightening, that will inspire new ideas; somewhere that is delightfully spontaneous, taking us on an exciting journey out of our current bubble.
A creative space A space that inspires creativity, filled with unique handmade pieces that resonate with you, helping
Create a space that reflects your identity and empowers you to embrace your uniqueness. A place that tells a story of your roots and inspires you to dream big while staying focused on your future goals.
If you are unsure about your choice of colour scheme, discover how True Joy™ and its complementary palettes could transform your home office with the Dulux Visualizer App. It’s the perfect companion to help provide a little colour guidance for your unique style.
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 brushon products for wall and floor surfaces (300 colours to choose from) and a full range of paint brushes, rollers and accessories. We also stock waterproofing products, Weatherprufe and Eco Rubber, Rolls of torch-on (3mm & 4mm) and various sizes of waterproofing membrane. Plascon water and oil-based paints.
We also stock a full range of Woodoc 'food for wood' in various colours and a full range of Duram products, including Duram Roof paints in various colours and Duram Showfloor Polyurethane floor paint, also in assorted colours. We can also supply twin pack epoxy paints for specialised applications.
All textures and colours are on show in our showroom. Pop in and have a coffee with us, whilst leisurely selecting your paints and colours. For FREE technical advice, paint specifications and quotations contact Paul 082 567 6162
FEATURE PROPERTY
VILLAGE HOME ON 2,000m2
EXCLUSIVE MANDATE: This historic gem, circa 1863, has been sensitively updated to present charming original features with a fresh, contemporary twist. The front facade is a recognisable landmark on Dirkie Uys Street and its large corner position conceals many hidden treasures beyond its walls, coupled with the most magnificent garden. A unique home and a very rare find even by Franschhoek standards.
The entrance opens into a generous openplan lounge with high ceilings and shuttered sash windows and follows through to the dining room with fireplace and quaint country kitchen with all the mod cons. This original part of the main house incorporates two bedrooms en-suite: a master with walk-through dressing room and doors out to the pool terrace; and a second smaller bedroom en-suite.
FEATURE PROPERTY
The poolside annex provides further accommodation in two generous bedroom suites with charming en-suite bathrooms. The swimming pool area with outdoor lounge/dining terrace offers an ideal space for entertaining with gorgeous mountain views and charming garden outlook.
The extensive garden (with private borehole) is filled with large mature trees and offers a private sanctuary in the heart of the village.
Also includes full solar power system, single garage, a large laundry/store room with staff toilet and a separate wine cellar.
Tom Clode 079 955 3114
Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R15 995 000
THREE BEDROOM HOME ON FRANSCHE HOEK ESTATE
Boasting some of the finest views on the slopes of the Fransche Hoek Estate. A charming front garden and entrance stoep invites you in to spacious open-plan living areas incorporating two lounges, a showcase kitchen and open-plan dining all leading out to the viewing terrace. Also offers a well-equipped scullery and separate laundry with direct access to the drying yard and double garage.
Leading off the living areas: luxurious master bedroom with semi open-plan bathroom, a separate toilet and bespoke dressing room as well as a large office and guest bathroom with potential to convert to additional accommodation with approved plans available.
Downstairs: a further two spacious bedrooms with full en-suite bathrooms as well as a private
family lounge/office and compact kitchenette flowing out to the terraced garden with ample space for a pool and gorgeous mountain and valley views.
A full solar system with back-up inverter and batteries is included. In addition, approved plans are available to add further accommodation.
This home must be viewed to appreciate the beautiful setting, excellent design and many hidden features.
Tom Clode 079 955 3114
Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R15 250 000
SIX BEDROOM VILLAGE HOME
This stunning property blends Cape Vernacular architecture with highend contemporary finishes. Large three bedroom en-suite main house with landscaped gardens and pool. Separate wing ideal for renting out with two spacious ensuite bedrooms with private courtyard gardens, and a luxurious 103 sqm self-contained garden apartment. 7 parking bays. Early viewing recommended!
CONTEMPORARY HOME ON FRANSCHE HOEK ESTATE
This three bedroom en-suite home boasts high end contemporary finishes throughout including wooden floors, high ceilings and high quality aluminium doors and windows. Open plan living/dining/kitchen areas with stunning views over the Franschhoek valley. Compact walled garden with plunge pool and large double garage. Beautiful setting and excellent design and finishes.
HECTARE BOUTIQUE WINE FARM
EXCLUSIVE MANDATE. A rare opportunity to own this 23ha Boutique Farm and Winery in a spectacular setting overlooking the Franschhoek valley. This property presents many revenue possibilities to support your dream lifestyle. Includes 120t wine production and cellaring facility along with a 330m2 tasting and function venue. Five dwellings including a 4 bedroom main house and 3 bedroom farmhouse. This combination of natural beauty and a prized Franschhoek lifestyle is a unique opportunity for