Franschhoek Tatler - October 2023

The Bag That Builds

Sailing Camp at Theewaterskloof

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.

Thursday, 8 December 2022,

to be turned into an innovative eco-aggregate used in concrete product manufacture.

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

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

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

take part in the pilot programme.

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.

Overall, the camp was a great success. All camp attendees had fun and showed improvements in their understanding and sailing abilities. They were accommodated in the bunkhouse (under adult supervision) and fully catered for by the club restaurant. The youngsters’ learning was facilitated by Neil’s assistant instructors, Kelly, Farrah, Drew, and senior instructor Christo-Louis. The team looks forward to further opportunities to impart their sailing expertise to learners in the valley.

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

For those interested in dinghy and Hobie sailing, The Sailing Academy offers lessons and camps at Theewater Sports Club. And for those with an interest in keelboat sailing, the Academy offers courses at Gordons Bay Yacht Club.

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

A group of 16 youngsters from Bridgehouse School, most of them Grade 7 learners, attended a sailing camp at Theewater Sports Club during their mid-term break from 25-28 August. The camp was the second of its kind offered to the school by Neil Ashton, owner of The Sailing Academy. The first camp where the aspiring sailors earned their Level 1 Certificates – accredited by World Sailing and South African Sailing (SAS) – took place at the end of February. The camp was an excellent opportunity for young learners to hone a new set of skills, beyond the ordinary extra-curricular programme. Although the preparation day (just for the instructor group) on Friday was a washout, the actual three-day sailing camp was blessed with warm and sunny weather, with breezes between 2 and 15 knots. The first day of the camp was spent brushing up on the basics they had learnt in February while fast-tracking the newcomers. With everyone up to speed, the young sailors were ready to intensify their learning experience. On day two, learners were ready to concentrate on sailing upwind on a close reach, tacking on a close reach, and sailing downwind on a training run. Ashore, they learnt essential knot-tying techniques: the figure-of-eight stopper knot, the reef knot, and the bowline. Finally, day three was dedicated to ‘the five fundamentals of sailing’, what to do when boats on opposite tacks (port and starboard) meet, as well as the gybing manoeuvre.

072 219 5951 (Neil Ashton) coach@sailingacademy.co.za

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

YO U R FAVOURITE SPOT I N F R A N S C H H O E K

On

the first 830 bags of plastic waste collected in the valley were sent to a cuttingedge plant in Cape Town

Putting new sailing skills to use.

Revved up for November’s Classic Car Festival

Counselling Centre at Wes-Eind Primary School

On Monday 28 August, Wes-Eind Primary School officially opened a new counselling centre – made possible by the Community Keepers (CK) in partnership with the National Treasury’s Jobs Fund. Marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Wes-Eind Primary is the latest to join the ranks of local schools with CK counselling centres including Dalubuhle Primary School, Franschhoek High School, Groendal Primary and Secondary Schools, and Wemmershoek Primary School.

With the opening of this counselling centre, the CK estimates that its services will reach about 50 000 learners and their parents/guardians via a total of 79 partner schools. Since its inception in 2008, CK has helped learners in need of crisis intervention, psychological support, and a place to safely and openly confide in someone. Through its partnership with the National Treasury’s Jobs Fund, CK has made considerable progress this year in extending its counselling services beyond Cape Town and the Winelands, expanding into schools in Gauteng and the rural Eastern Cape.

Theo Lotter (CEO) and Graham Warsop (Chairman) of the Franschhoek Classic Car Festival are excited about what 18 and 19 November’s launch event has in store for car enthusiasts and the general public alike.

The duo, both resident in the village, have complementary skill sets - with Lotter having spent a successful career in the engineering profession, managing the largest electro-mechanical company in the country, and Warsop the founder and creative director of famous SA design and advertising agency The Jupiter Drawing Room.

This year sees the introduction of a festival that aims to evolve into a one-of-a-kind event in South Africa, utilising venues across the village, to enable visitors to experience the full gambit of what Franschhoek has to offer.

Confirmed events include a display of locallyowned collectable classic and modern cars in the centre of the village and a ‘Forty of the Finest’ display at the Huguenot Monument – forty iconic cars from forty different brands – as well as what promises to be a spectacular parade on the morning of Sunday, 19 November.

As Lotter notes, “We’d love to see the village come out on the pavements of Huguenot Road on Sunday,

as over 100 cars, ranging from classics to supercars, will embark on a parade through the village.”

For more information and prior booking visit www.fccf.co.za.

Are you the proud owner of a collectable classic car?

One of this November’s Franschhoek Classic Car Festival features will be a display in the centre of the village, comprising collectable classics and modern supercars owned by residents from in and around the valley.

All classic car owners from the Franschhoek area are encouraged to forward details of their cherished vehicles to the organisers would love to talk to you about how they can accommodate your participation in the event.

Please e-mail cars@fccf.co.za if you are interested in taking part.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Foto Artist Studio

Dinner and Discourse

CK’s initiatives have also created new jobs for those serving in its counselling centres. Indeed, CK earned a prestigious NSTF (National Science and Technology Forum) award for its innovative approach whereby it invites local community members to enrol (at no cost) in Mental Health First Aid training. After successful completion, they can apply for positions as CK Care Facilitators, thus providing frontline support.

The surge in demand for CK’s services during the pandemic demonstrated how crucial psychological services are to the overall well-being of communities and in addressing the impact of traumatic childhood experiences including poverty, neglect, grief, and exposure to violence. As a result of these experiences, children can find themselves stuck in survival mode without a safe space to have their stories heard and find resolution. The psychological impact of this is immobilising, most often leading to depression, substance-dependencies, self-harm, and even the perpetration of violence on others.

CK Educational Psychologist, Amanda van der Vyver, emphasises how crucial the development of emotional literacy is amongst South Africa’s vulnerable youth, stating that “All behaviour is communication, and if learners (or educators) can’t communicate

Wes-Eind Primary School’s Head Mistress, Ferrentia September (centre) with Gerrit Laning (Community Keepers CEO) and Annetjie Louw (Community Keepers Board Member)

their emotions, it shows up as behaviour. People who do not develop or use their emotional literacy skills are more likely to turn to other, less effective, means of managing their feelings. They are twice as likely to experience anxiety and depression.”

That is why CK’s counselling services provide holistic support to learners by involving educators and parents/guardians in addressing both the trauma response and its underlying causes. Their support includes exercises for coping with anxiety; referrals for external support such as food security; ‘anchoring services’ for prevention of harm; as well as workshops aimed at mending family relationships through boundary-setting, positive communication, and active listening.

www.communitykeepers.org | 021 876 2360

Text: Leila Shirley | Image: Supplied

La Cotte Farm hosted the last of its ‘Winter Tales’ evenings on Saturday, 1 September. It may be said that they ended the season on a high note, as the speaker was the world-renowned Zulu Wars expert Doug Rattray of Fugitive’s Drift Lodge. Guests gathered outside the La Cotte function venue (formerly the farm shed) as the Spring Day sun was bathing the farm werf in its last rays. With wine or glühwein in hand, many were sharing memories of either growing up in KwaZulu-Natal or having had the opportunity to listen to Doug’s late father, David Rattray, sharing Zululand’s history and culture.

As dusk approached, guests were ushered into the venue. Following a brief introduction by La Cotte’s GM, Mark Dendy Young, Doug took to the floor. Sporting bushveld-chic khakis and a white shirt – and with knobkerrie in hand! – he charmed his way into his audience’s affection within minutes. He may have described himself as “just a farmer”, but it was rapidly evident to his audience

that this was akin to describing Cleopatra as an Egyptian politician.

Fugitive’s Drift says that Doug is a lecturer. This certainly doesn’t do him justice either. Michaelhouse schooled and qualified in nature conservation, he’s a scholar and a scribe, an activist and a conservationist, an orator and an actor and much besides. When Doug speaks his audience is transported to the rolling hills of Zululand, to the heat of battle, the pathos of remembrance and the realm of the forefathers. Time seemed to slow and most of the rapt audience was surprised when Doug apologised to the chef for exceeding his allotted time.

Warmed by Doug’s talk and, perhaps, the glühwein, the guests made their way through

the evening chill to the manor house where a delectable dinner was served at communal tables. Between making new acquaintances and sharing old tales, some guests took the opportunity to share their own Zululand tales with all who’d listen – including the selfconfessed “food-aggressive” Doug. (If you ever meet him, ask him about his mother’s cooking.) Doug handled them with aplomb though and may have even convinced some to visit Fugitive’s Drift.

All considered, it was a most delightful evening of dinner and discourse.

Text & Image: Editorial Desk

Warsop, looking the part, with his 1955 Le Mans-winning D-Type Jaguar Tribute car. Lotter with his 1983 Alfa Romeo GTV 6.

Doug Rattray

(Not) Horsing About

Franschhoek has equestrian talent aplenty in a variety of disciplines. Mariska Burger though takes it to new heights, or should that be distances? She is Captain of the 160km South African Protea Lightweight Endurance Riding Team. The Tatler set out to learn more about her and her sport over a mug of coffee.

Mariska has been riding horses since the age of six but it was her neighbour, Pieter Hugo, who got her interested in endurance riding. (Pieter achieved national colours in endurance riding on several occasions.) Before endurance riding she had not participated in equine sports for almost 20 years.

SAIC (South African International Challenge) was held at Louvain Guest Farm in the Upper Langkloof Valley between George and Uniondale from 23-27 May 2023. It was here that Mariska achieved her Protea colours.

Mariska explains that the course for the various distances (80kms, 120kms and 160kms or 100 miler as it is called) is set out in a cloverleaf pattern with the start and finish at the base camp. Riders complete one loop of their race, which brings them back to the starting point, where the rider and groom have 20 minutes to untack and get the horse’s heart rate below 64 beats per minute. Riders then present their horse to one of the vets on the veterinary panel, who then thoroughly checks all the vital signs of the horse, including a trot out to check for any discomfort or lameness. If the horse passes the vet check, the horse and rider get 40 minutes to

rest, eat and hydrate. On the time slip they get their next departure time and then it is off on the next loop of the cloverleaf track. The 160km race this year consisted of 6 loops in distances of 40km, 30km, 30km, 20km, 20km and 20km. Once all the loops have been completed the times for the various loops are added to arrive at the final time for the day.

Mariska says it’s quite challenging to determine a comfortable, yet competitive pace, considering the technicalities and difficulties of the terrain. So you adapt your game plan accordingly. If the course is demanding, riders will often get off their horses and run beside them to help them save energy for later loops.

The longest race, the 100 miler, starts in the dark when it is normally cooler and to ensure that horses and riders can finish the course in daylight. As it takes approximately 10 hours to complete a 160km course this often means starting as early as 00h00! On the positive side, Mariska says, they get to experience and travel to beautiful parts of the country. “It’s just you, your horse, Mother Nature and the sunrise…”

Apart from competing with her horses, she also rides for Danie Louw’s Perdeberg Stud. Her 160km

‘Winemaker for a Day’ the Best in Africa

Café du Vin’s ‘Winemaker for a Day’ workshop received recognition as the Best Wine Tourist Experience 2023 at the African Excellence Awards. The Tatler caught up with the workshop presenter and sommelier, Ricardo Roux, to find out more.

Ricardo explains “This fun workshop affords participants the opportunity to explore the art and science of wine blending. Participants not only get to devise their own blend but also to bottle it, including corking and labelling the bottle. In the event that the bottle doesn’t last long, participants also receive an apron to remind them of the experience!”

Winemaker for a Day started in 2006 at La Vigne Wine Estate. In 2019 it moved to the village, with Ricardo now in charge. He says that while participants get to learn more about wine and what it takes to create a good blend, the overriding mission of the workshop is “to give people a great experience.” Judging by the award and the reviews on their website, they are certainly succeeding in that!

Future plans, Ricardo says, include taking the Winemaker for a Day workshop on the road and presenting it elsewhere in South Africa.

Café du Vin certainly isn’t a one-trick pony either. Their 800 selections wine list has, for the third year in a row, received a Wine Spectator

‘Best of’’ Award of Excellence – one of only two restaurants in the country to hold this distinction. Diners should have no trouble finding something to complement Executive Chef Ahmed Balogun’s creative fair. Unless, of course, having too many options confuses you… Fortunately, Ricardo is on hand for wise wine advice.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

horse, named Perdeberg Winners’ Circle, competed in the 2022 SAIC held at Sondela Nature Reserve (Bela Bela) where they placed fourth, which was a great preparation for this year’s SAIC.

Not all horses are suitable for endurance riding. Most riders ride Arabians as they’ve been bred to endure long distances under difficult circumstances. Along with their strong personalities, Mariska says, it makes them the best option for endurance riders.

Indeed Mariska credits her horse and says, “Winners Circle got me Protea colours.”

Mariska has also participated numerous times in the National Championships which is held under the banner of ERASA (Endurance Ride Association of South Africa) in July at Fauresmith, Free State. Mariska is not the only one in her family involved in endurance riding. Her husband, DP, when not representing South Africa as captain of the national deep sea angling team, is chairman of the Western Cape Endurance Riders Association (WCERA) and supergroom for wife and daughter. Their daughter, Kristie, is also an endurance rider and also took part at SAIC with her heart horse, Perdeberg Coco, where they obtained Western Cape Provincial colours.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied Mariska

Heidi offers all regular audiological (hearing) assessment, the supply and repair of all types of mainstream hearing aids, auditory processing assessment and therapy, and tinnitus management.

Burger riding Perdeberg Winners’ Circle.

Sommelier Ricardo Roux proudly displays Winemaker for a Day’s African Excellence Award

Franschhoek Wine Valley

As the vibrant colours of spring paint our picturesque village, Franschhoek blooms into life with signs of growth at every turn and the promise of sun-drenched days to look forward to. With this year’s Franschhoek Creates and Franschhoek Open Gardens just around the corner, we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to celebrate the splendour of art and nature right at our doorstep.

In the heart of our charming town, something exciting is brewing - we’ve heard murmurings of ‘Frank’s Corner’ joining the culinary scene - yet more gourmet gold to add to our long list of culinary greats!

Experience the enchantment of our charming village this October, and allow the surrounding beauty to awaken your senses and ignite your imagination.

La Motte Wine Estate’s Vin de Joie Rosé 2022

The delicate complexity of La Motte Vin de Joie Rosé with its well-defined notes of nectarine, melon, rose petal and Turkish delight is perfectly paired with the simplicity of leafy salads, delicate salmon and trout or finely sliced charcuterie in summer and comforting fish soup or saffron-scented seafood paella in winter. Made to celebrate life’s everyday joys – whether they are social or simple.

Cellar door price: R110 per bottle

T 021 876 8000 E info@la-motte.co.za

La Motte Bakery & Garden Café’s Trout & Asparagus Tart

Ingredients - 400g roll of puff pastry, defrosted; Flour for dusting; 1 egg + 1 tsp milk (egg wash); 100g baby asparagus; 2 x 250g smooth cottage cheese; juice and zest of 1 lemon; 20g wild rocket; 100g smoked salmon or trout ribbons; 4-5 sprigs of fresh dill; 2 Tbsp baby capers; drizzle of extra virgin olive oil; salt and black pepper; 1 lemon, sliced into wedges, to serve

Method - Preheat oven to 200 ºC. Unroll pastry

onto floured work surface. Dust pastry with flour and gently roll out any crinkles. Slice a 3 cm piece of pastry off each side of the rectangle but keep them intact; brush the edges of the remaining rectangle with egg wash and then lay the corresponding trimmed pastry pieces on top of the egg wash to stick them down. This will puff up and create a border all the way around. Brush the pastry with egg wash, then use a fork to poke the dough all over the inside of the border.. Transfer to a baking paperlined tray. Bake for 25-35 minutes until puffed and golden, and allow to cool. While pastry cools, set a pan over high heat. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and fry until it begins to char. Remove from heat and season. Place cream cheese in a bowl, add lemon zest and juice and whisk until smooth.

To Assemble - Spoon the cottage cheese into the cooled pastry shell. Spread out to create a base of cheese. Top with rocket, twirls of salmon ribbons, grilled asparagus, dill fronds and capers. Season with salt and a crack of black pepper, drizzle with olive oil. Slice and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

T 0218768825 E bakery@la-motte.co.za

As we prepare for the busy season ahead, we're proud to maintain our position as a must-visit destination, showcasing the allure of the Western Cape on a global stage, as highlighted by the inclusion of Franschhoek in Time Magazine's 'World's Greatest Places' list last year.

If you or your guests require any assistance or guidance, this is where you’ll find us! 66B Huguenot Road (Main Road) in Franschhoek, right next to Col’Cacchio, and opposite Terbodore Café. We are open and ready to assist on Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm, Saturday, 9am - 2pm, and Sunday, 9am - 12pm.

We welcome visitors with open arms, and invite them to discover the magic that earned us a spot among the world's greatest places!

WHERE WE’VE BEEN

We’re ecstatic to announce the worthy accolades bestowed upon our beloved Franschhoek Vignerons members. Renowned wine critic and master of wine,Tim Atkin, recently released his 2023 report, which further validates our region’s excellence in winemaking. A true testament to the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into each bottle produced in our valley!

On September 13th, WOSA Wines of South Africa (WoSA) hosted the inaugural Sommelier Symposium, welcoming a group of 38 sommeliers from key focus markets.The symposium's primary objective is to establish a platform for enriching and educating our vital on-trade professionals, influencers, and partners about South African wines. Sommeliers enjoyed a technical Cap Classique tasting hosted by Boschendal, followed by a Rickety Bridge Sémillon tasting aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram, and ended off with a casual walk around tasting of 16 Franschhoek Vigneron ‘Wines of Origin’, accompanied by a delectable traditional spit braai at Klein Goederust.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO

Franschhoek Creates

27 October - 7 November 2023

We're thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of 'Franschhoek Creates’. This annual event is a true delight for aesthetes and patrons of the arts, offering a week-long celebration of creativity and visual storytelling. Immerse yourself in meticulously curated gallery exhibitions, which serve as a canvas for the talents of our local artists. Engage in interactive showcases that invite you to become an integral part of the creative process, sure to leave you feeling inspired and captivated. More info: www.franschhoek.org.za

Franschhoek Open Gardens

3 - 5 November 2023

The Franschhoek Open Garden festival prides itself on offering a diverse array of gardens, catering to various preferences. From charming village gardens to stunning expansive farm gardens, there’s something to suit every taste.

Cellar Chat

Mark Tanner

In the last issue, I mentioned a book about a search for the latest Rosé in France. A reader from the distant Channel Island of Jersey very kindly let me have the title of the book. So, for a great read about a fun journey through the vineyards of France, look out for ‘Extremely Pale Rosé’ by Jamie Ivey. (It’s available on amazon.co.uk)

Do you put ice in your wine? Let’s face it, on a warm summer’s day a glass of white, while correctly served chilled, will soon warm up and lose its allure. A few blocks of ice quickly remedies the problem, but then they melt and dilute any remaining allure. In our climate putting ice in your wine is generally accepted as being the done thing. How many times have you automatically been served wine with a small bowl of ice?

While the purists will regard this as infra-dig and just not on, the compromise perhaps is to order a

Thoughts From My Kitchen

Trick or Treat

It’s spooky season once again and Halloween is nearly here. I always enjoy the fun costumes and treats that come along with it which led me to wonder about the history of Halloween and the foods associated with it.

For us in South Africa, the easy answer to where Halloween originated would be American TV and movies, but of course, the origins go way back.

It begins with the Gaelic festival of Samhain, celebrating the Celtic New Year.

Samhain marked the change between summer and winter. It was believed that at this time of year the veil between this world and the otherworld was at its thinnest, allowing spirits to pass through. People wore costumes and masks to disguise themselves against harmful spirits.

bottle with an ice bucket filled with half water, half ice. This extends the chilling effect, but you may want to share it with a friend if you don’t want to finish the whole bottle yourself.

A simple tip to help keep your wine cool: always hold your glass by the stem and not the bowl –that is why wine glasses are often referred to as ‘stemware’. The converse of course also applies. If your wine has been poured crackling cold from the fridge with condensation on the glass, cup the bowl in your hands to obtain the temperature that allows you to enjoy it!

Enter Whisky Stones. Mind you, Whisky Stones are not necessarily made of stone but, as you have no doubt gathered, they go a very long way towards solving the cooling without diluting problem. They come in various guises but mostly mimic the classic ice cube. Some are made of granite, some of stainless steel. Showcased in handsome boxes they make excellent gifts and like most such finds are priced accordingly.

According to Josh White of the Daily Mail, France is planning to pour away £170m of wine to stem tumbling prices as sales crash. The growing popularity of craft beer and the rising cost of living, plus the

post-Covid hangover are said to be blamed. While sales have plummeted, production has continued to rise and the French Government has had to find outlets for the surplus. They have announced a plan to buy up vast quantities to be destroyed.

Bad news indeed, but how is this for a potential ‘silver lining? The alcohol content will be recycled to make hand sanitiser, cleaning products and maybe even perfume! Imagine the packaging: With luck, one could literally wash your hands with Chateaux Petrus while the better half dabs a drop of Chablis behind her ears. It would appear that Italy, Spain and Portugal are also affected but to a much lesser degree.

Ever heard of Orange wine? Apparently, it’s the latest fad in Europe. Oranges do not feature, only the colour. The wine is made from white grapes where the juice is fermented with the skins, sometimes called ‘skin-contact wines’. Left to macerate for longer the wine assumes an amber colour. A good example can combine the freshness of a white wine with the body you may find in a red. It seems to me that they are following a pattern laid down by wine producers in Georgia whose wine colours can vary from ‘gin’ white to almost black. Pass the Pinotage please and let’s keep it local.

So Stingy Jack was condemned to wander the earth with nothing but a lump of coal burning inside a hollowed-out turnip, which he used as a lantern to light his way.

This is why now there’s the whole wonderful world of dressing up in ghoulish disguise to scare the scary things back to where they came from. Then you offer them treats in the hope that this will appease any evil thoughts they might have.

Carved jack-’o-lanterns are a staple of Halloween. The carving of pumpkin lanterns originated in Ireland from local folklore. Originally, turnips were used to carve the lanterns. When Irish immigrants took their stories to America they discovered the superior carving qualities of pumpkins, which are used today.

The story behind these lanterns is based on the folk tale of Stingy Jack who played a trick on the Devil. When Jack died he wasn’t allowed into heaven because he was stingy and because he tricked the devil he wasn’t allowed into hell either.

Taste South Africa at Leopard’s Leap

Taste South Africa at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards expands on the winery’s already popular South African Table to now also include a South African Wine Tasting with the added option of the iconic SA Braaibroodjie, a South African Food & Wine Experience introducing the country’s diversity of flavours as well as a quick and quirky local touch to its morning offering in the form of a Roosterkoek menu!

The South African Table South Africa is a melting pot of cultures, all of which influence food traditions and styles of cooking. Join the enthusiastic Chef Christiaan Visser as he introduces you to the diversity of South African cuisine. He prepares the dishes, explains the history and shares the tales behind the threecourse meal that follows – a true celebration of typical food styles, ingredients and wine from South Africa’s rich culinary tradition.

Also joining at the generous table in the Leopard’s Leap kitchen, is an enthusiastic Wine Tasting Ambassador who introduces guests to the Leopard’s Leap wines and their unique South African attributes.

Three-course lunch with wine pairing: R495 per person | Wednesday to Saturday, 13h00 |

Reservations essential

The SA Wine Tasting

Presented by one of the passionate Wine Tasting Ambassadors, guests are invited to enjoy examples of stalwart South African wines – Chenin Blanc and Pinotage in a variety of styles – and one of South Africa’s most iconic dishes – the braaibroodjie!

Wine Tasting R60 (5 wines) | Braaibroodjie R60 | Wednesday to Sunday, 09h00 – 16h00 | No reservations required

The SA Food & Wine Experience

Hosted in a private tasting area, the SA Food & Wine Experience is presented by one of the Leopard’s Leap Wine Tasting Ambassadors. The wine tasting includes three examples of Chenin Blanc (Leopard’s Leap Classic Chenin Blanc, Culinaria Chenin Blanc and the Culinaria MCC made from 100% Chenin Blanc) as well as South Africa’s claim to fame, Pinotage (the Leopard’s Leap Classic as well as the Special Edition Pinotage).

The wine tasting is accompanied by examples of typical South African cuisine types that represent various cultures and regions, introducing highlights

from the South African culinary scene with a discussion on the diversity of local ingredients and recipes.

Food & Wine Tasting: R295 | Only available to groups between 8 and 20 | Wednesday to Saturday, at 11h00 or 14h00 | Reservations essential

The SA Roosterkoek Menu

Morning visitors in the mood for a local bite can choose between:

Eggy Roosterkoek with soft boiled eggs, whipped ricotta, Za’atar, dill, chili butter (R80)

Cheesy Roosterkoek with melted mozzarella, smoked cheddar, chives, onion jam (R70)

Snoek Roosterkoek with smoked snoek, dill, pickled red onion (R90)

The Roosterkoek Menu is available from Wednesday to Sunday, 09h00 – 11h00.

info@leopardsleap.co.za | +27 (0)21 876 8002

With all this excess pumpkin available, what better way to use it all up than in a pumpkin pie? This is really easy to make at home. All you need is pumpkin puree, evaporated milk and eggs. The spices will add that Halloween touch so use nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger. To round it all off, add a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

When talking about the history of Halloween foods you can’t ignore trick-ortreating. This tradition has been updated for modern society, but going from door to door comes from All Souls’ Day.

Nowadays it’s the perfect time for kids and adults

cupcakes, making them into eerie eyeballs, witches and ghosts. Another quick and easy idea is to make ghoulish ghosts by melting white chocolate and spooning it onto a silicone mat in a ghost-like shape. By using simple chocolate chips you can

INDULGE IN TASTY DELIGHTS AT CAFÉ BEIGNET!

Whether you're hopping on the Wine Tram or just a local foodie looking for some goodness, Café Beignet has you covered! Swing by for some top-notch artisanal coffee, classic French Beignets, tasty snacks, and refreshing cold drinks, including fresh juices and iced coffees. And guess what? We're thrilled to introduce a new selection of mouthwatering pizzas, toasted sandwiches, wraps, and muffins to the menu too!

Oh, and here's the cherry on top: for a limited time, when you grab one of our coffees, we'll throw in a complimentary Beignet – the fanciest French pastry treat you'll ever taste!

Chantal Lascaris

Traditional Braaibroodjie

Making Sense of Volkswagen’s Million Buck Amarok

Flagship Aventura steps a few rungs up to lead the bakkie way

There’s be a bit of a fight going on between carmakers since bakkies slipped over the million rand mark a few months ago. Now the struggle appears to be to have the most expensive pickup truck on the South African market on their price list. There’s even a million rand Hilux these days, Ford wants a bar for the V6 Ranger Wildtrak and Isuzu closer to one point one for its AT35 and this Volkswagen Amarok Aventura stops the till at 1.16 million Rand.

That’s still two hundred grand cheaper than the Ford Ranger Raptor, but the most expensive bakkie accolade belongs to the oddball R1.3-odd million Jeep Wrangler Gladiator. Take the speciality bakkies out of it, and our baby blue Amarok the most expensive conventional double-cab bakkie on the market. And now we must put it to the test.

On the face of it, it’s doing a pretty solod job. It certainly looks the part as Volkswagen promises this styling to be exclusive. We can’t argue with that.

For starters, the new Ford Ranger-based Amarok is bigger than the more exclusive VW-only old bakkie.

For a more purposeful and results in crisper stance. Never mind improved off-road ability.

Getting back to looks, our office was for once united on how well Volkswagen’s latest bakkie DNA has worked out. A more expressive utility vehicle grille merges into interactive illumination IQ.Light LED headlights under a straight, upright hood. Flared half-round wheel arches frame a handsome set of face polished black 12-spoke 21-inch alloys.

The bak is topped by a stylish sports bar and a neat roll-up hardtop cover. There’s room enough for a Euro pallet in there and the bak features a multi-functional carrier system. Amarok also has Improved 350 kg roof load capacity to easily tote a roof tent. The plastic bed liner has some cool aspects like cup holders. But it falls short on build quality and fit.

Amarok’s high quality luxury cabin is flush with premium materials. The dash is topped by an elegant leather-like panel and robust chrome look switchgear

ALFA ROMEO RZ

When you combine the design talents of three Italian styling studios with one of that country’s most charismatic motor manufacturers, you would expect something special to be the outcome. That is precisely what happened in 1989 when Alfa Romeo revealed the ES30 concept on the Zagato stand at the Geneva Salon. The SZ (as it was named) actually embodied all that was great about the company’s pedigree, with only its looks setting it apart from its universally stylish forebears. Its appearance led to an immediate nickname of ‘il Mostro’ – The Monster – that helped boost the car’s attraction.

A maximum production run of 1 000 was cited but a total of 1 036 were built, and in 1992 as the SZ’s short production life was drawing to a close Alfa, not surprisingly, introduced an al fresco version – the RZ Roadster Zagato. Zagato had presented a curvaceous spider design the year before but the RZ that did appear was a

FN FOUR

FMM has some wonderful unrestored and exceptional historic gems in its motorcycle collection, one of which is the remarkable circa 1905 FN Four, the world’s first production inline-4 motorcycle. FN is a Belgian company that was – and still is – a munitions manufacturer. The museum’s bike is in ‘barn-find’ original condition, and although not a runner it has been well-kept for display purposes. The engine is a vertical, 362cc inline-4 that put out 2,5 kW at 1 800 r/min and, with reliability in mind, was built using high grade materials. Other features include a float-fed carburettor and Bosch magneto ignition. A small hand pump is

and finishes step it up over its Ford cousin. Elegant 10 position leather trimmed power seats up front are complemented by ample space and comfort, even for three reasonably sized adults in the back cab.

The multifunction steering wheel has tactile buttons rather than horrible sliders to run the clear digital driver’s instruments and 12.3-inch central portrait touchscreen infotainment. Bright, attractive, and easy to read, the button and knob shortcuts are welcome. But you must still work deep into the touchscreen to complete too many too basic functions. And why a portrait screen? So the infotainment comes close. But no cigar.

This Aventura has fine 640-watt Harman Kardon sound, but the dodgy gear shifter and even cheesier squeeze door handles make us wonder. As do the same build quality issues that blighted Cousin Ranger Wildtrak. The VW overcomes some of those concerns by quality materials, trim and switchgear. All should improve as production ramps up. Time will tell.

This Amarok Aventura is however monumental to drive. Yes, its Ford, etcetera derived 3-litre turbodiesel V6 is not as lusty as the old bakkie’s VW lump. And slower in our tests. But who cares? Creamy and full, it thrusts the bakkie along with aplomb. Ride is fantastic, its super-quiet in there, on and off road and Amarok certainly shifts the dynamic game along.

Some may question the need for the extra two ratios in that Ford 10-speed automatic, but you never notice as the box always delivers the correct cog for what you’re up to. Amarok’s 4Motion all-

Gio: Polo Cup Job Done!

Franschhoek lad Giordano Lupini wrapped up an incredible season of CompCare Polo Cup racing at home at Killarney in September. “We were not supposed to even race this year, but we decided last moment to enter at Killarney in March,” Gio explains. “My mom must have packed some special pasta for padkos, because we dominated that weekend off pole position! So we entered the next race up at Zwartkops in Pretoria and I was on pole and won again, which is a huge feather in our Cape team’s cap, and we have enjoyed a rollercoaster season since. Anyway, we close off with four wins in SA’s most competitive national formula, four pole positions,

more obvious spin-off from the SZ, yet only the front fenders and fold-out boot lid are the same. The RZ features two suggested humps behind the seats, reminiscent of the legendary double-bubble roof from Zagato. Like the SZ, the RZ was sold and distributed outside Italy mostly by enthusiasts and specialists, and not by the official Alfa Romeo channels. But unlike the only-red SZ, the RZ came in a choice of colours.

Inside, there is a painted central console that sweeps up between the seats to conceal the convertible roof storage. The seats are identical to the SZ and fold forward and together with the rear part of the centre console, which also folds forward to give access to a minimal amount of luggage space under the hood. The hood mechanism works manually, but the engine has to be switched off. The luggage compartment, accessed through the small flap between the taillights, contains the space-saver spare wheel, tool kit and hydraulic pump for the suspension.

conveniently placed on the side of the fuel tank and is used to maintain the pressure for the oiling system while riding.

The transmission was somewhat of a novelty for its time, making use of an enclosed bevel gear-and-shaft-drive delivering power to the rear wheel via six helical springs located inside the flywheel assembly to absorb the forces of combustion. When starting, decompression levers on the handlebar are depressed to get the pedals in the desired position to crank over the engine. The front brake is lever operated from the handlebar, while the rear brakes were operated by back-pedalling the free-pedal device that, incidentally, also aided the starting procedure.

On a sporting note, at the 10-lap 1908 Isle

wheel drive automatically farms output between the front and rear axles via a multi-plate clutch. And brings four intelligent drive modes.

New Amarok is better off-road too thanks to better front and rear ramp angles. It tows a braked 3.5-tonnes and boasts a 1.2-tonne payload and a 500 kg improved 6.5 tonne combination mass. Add 25 assistance systems from intelligent auto cruise to lane change and parking assistants bolstered by 360-degree Area View, and road sign recognition.

So yes, there are a few little aspects that made us wonder why this premium early production bakkie was perhaps not a little more diligently developed. But, like a good blue cheese, this blue car will likely mature a bit over time. It’s also a little compromised by silly infotainment issues, but then most modern cars are, too.

The final elephant in the room: is any bakkie worth R1.16-million? Well that’s not VW’s problem. It’s our poor old rand’s fault. We’d say it certainly is

ROAD TESTED: Volkswagen Amarok Aventura 3.0TDI

4Motion

Engine: 184 kW 600 Nm 3-litre turbodiesel

Drive: 10-speed automatic 4x4

Load Capacity: 1,190 kg

Max Braked Trailer 3,500 kg TESTED:

8.54 sec

0-120 km/h: 11.96 sec

0-160 km/h: 22.19 sec

400m: 16.1 sec @ 140 km/h

80-120 km/h:  6.13 sec

120-160 km/h: 10.23 sec

CLAIMED:

VMax: 190 km/h

Fuel: 8.4 l/100 km

CO2: 222 g/km

Range: 950 km

Warranty/Service: 4y 120K/5y 100K km

LIST PRICE: R1.16M

RATED: 9

worth the money. If anything, the new Amarok is far better than its predecessor at most of the things that matter more.

Road testing: Giordano Lupini

Follow more of Michele & Giordano’s motoring meanderings at https://theauto.page

A Local Geological Journey with Nick Norman

three of them on the trot at Killarney and several fastest laps and records. So I’d say that’s job done! Huge thanks to all fans and supporters, especially those from Franschhoek who have come around the country to support us over the past two seasons. And our greatest appreciation to our sponsors, Tork Craft Tools, Red Earth Projects, Bullion IT, Pabar Auto Components, Accident Guru, and my Nian du Toit Racing team.Giordano

Lupini and his Tork Craft Volkswagen endured a tough weekend’s CompCare Polo Cup races at the Grand Prix Circuit’s Extreme Festival in July. Lupini was just happy to score decent points and come home with a more or less straight car after a tough weekend at the epic Border racetrack.

“Let’s just say that in spite of its heady legend, the East London Grand Prix Circuit and I are finding

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.

it difficult to be friends!” Giordano frowned. “We head back to my home track at in Cape Town next. I have a pretty decent record there, which is a bit of a double edged sword, because there’s also the expectation. But we will give it our best, so diarise this now and come support us at Killarney on September!”

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.

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).

Powering the both the RZ and SZ is a slightly tweaked version of Alfa’s charismatic, tuneful and elegant 60-deg V6 mated with a fivespeed transaxle incorporating a 25% limitedslip differential. The single overhead-cam, 12-valve, fuel-injected motor pumped out 157 kW at 6 200 r/min and 245 N.m of torque at 4 500. Top speed is around 230 km/h and the 0-100 km/h time is 7,5 seconds.

The steering wheel position is fixed, but the fixed-height front seats offer almost full cabin length adjustment. Pedals are offset

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

of Man TT, a FN motorcycle was the first fourcylinder motorcycle to compete in the event.

Rider Ronald Clark finished in third place in his class with a time of 4:11:02,8 averaging 60,8 km/h and received a prize of £10 for his effort!

to the right alongside a left-foot rest. Twist the key and blip the accelerator to fire up the engine’s orchestral delights. Then hit the open road to savour the RZ’s raison d’être. The chassis of the RZ has a number of modifications to compensate for the lack of a roof. The suspension is set up slightly more on the compliant side, and away from urban congestion, the RZ provides idyllic open-top motoring pleasure. There is no ABS or other electronic guardian angels, but the all-disc brakes provide reassuring stopping power.

A production run of 350 RZ cars was announced, but it proved harder to sell than the SZ and only 278 roadsters left the factory. All but 50 were made in 1993, including FMM’s yellow example. Like most monsters, the Alfa Romeo RZ is a rare beast and a valued part of the museum’s collection.

The Alfa RZ It is currently on view in Hall D alongside its SZ sibling.

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.

VISITING FMM

FMM’s opening time are Monday to Friday 10h00 to 17h00 (last admittance 16h00), Saturday and Sunday 10h00 to 16h00 (last admittance 15h00). Visiting the museum is by appointment only and via online booking. Entry fees: R80 adults, R60 pensioners and motor club members (with membership ID), R40 children (ages 3-12). Only electronic payments are accepted. The famed FMM Pitstop Deli is open throughout the visiting hours.

For booking tickets and any other information as well as signing on for a free monthly newsletter, logon to www.fmm. co.za or phone 021 874 9000 or e-mail fmm@ fmm.co.za

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.

The FN Four is curently on view in Hall B.

Nick Norman with the Wemmershoek Mountains in the background.

Leeu Estates - A Natural Blend

‘Sigh or Cry the Beloved Country’, (with apologies to Alan Paton) is how we mostly feel about environmental issues in South Africa: poaching of animals and plants is an enormous problem, along with dramatically declining habitats. One of these is our local fynbos, a biome that boasts more species than the tropical rainforests.

The Fynbos Guy, aka Dominic Chadbon, practically raves about this “mesmerizing mosaic of fine heath-like plants which have evolved over two to four million years … Unimpeded by an ice age each twist and turn of mountains created a new array. Scientists, including Charles Darwin, have been open-mouthed at the diversity and beguiling beauty of these 12,000 flowering plants.”

This earthly treasure’s importance has not been lost on the Leeu Collection. Their portfolio of properties is designed with an eco-conscious ethic to ensure a positive footprint for the planet.

In the case of Leeu Estates, the boutique winery in the Franschhoek Valley, fine wine production, hospitality and biodiversity enhancement are paramount. This is because of the vision and environmental commitment of the owner, Mr Analjit Singh, informally known as BAS.

The list of eco-accomplishments on Leeu Estates is impressive.

The biodiverse landscaped garden, designed by Francesca Watson, has seen an amazing 7000m2 of fynbos planted to date. A smart sprinkler system is electronically monitored on a daily basis to ensure

maximum water use efficiency. Three wetlands capture excess water which is then recycled. A unique and tranquil ‘bokkie garden’ from which ‘rays’ of cape yellow honeysuckle emanate features a large dam; home to indigenous frog species and a breeding site for water birds. The active lynx population makes it difficult to entice real Grysbok, but lifelike sculptures do a fine stand-in job! The presence of the shy cape leopard is attested to by various captured by security cameras on the farm. Owl boxes invite Cape eagle, spotted and barn owls to roost – and help manage the rodent population.

‘Spekboom’ (Portulacaria afra), a plant renowned for its CO2 absorption ability, is used for hedges to help reduce the estate’s carbon footprint. Added to this, space taken up by buildings is returned to the earth by the creation of roof-top gardens.

Non-invasive alien trees both at Leeu Estates and Leeu House (boutique hotel in the village) have been retained. By contrast, water-thirsty alien invasive plant species (particularly pine, black wattle, hakea, blue gum and Port Jackson), a great threat to our fynbos, are being cleared on the Dassenberg slopes above the vineyards. An impressive 80% has been

removed so far and the fynbos is regenerating beautifully. This major project is ongoing as regrowth has to be contained and is assisted by WWF and the Berg River Irrigation Board.

As only natural fertilizers and pesticides are used on the farm, all garden refuse is converted to ‘clean’ compost.

Sustainability and responsible development were kept top of mind in building construction too. These include proper insulation in walls, floors and ceilings, LED light bulbs, seasonally-adjusted exterior globes, borehole water purified and tanked on site, and stone-clad walls providing natural insulation at the spa. Heat pumps provide hot water and underfloor heating.

The hotels and restaurants in the Leeu Collection only use locally sourced, organic, ethicallygrown products in their kitchens. Hospitality operations use glass bottles for toiletries, bamboo for toothbrushes and razors and biodegradable

CONSULTING DIETICIAN BSc Med (Hons) Dietetics

cleaning products to protect the environment. Organic/sustainable principles are also standard in the winery and vineyards.

The blend of Cape architecture, art, hospitality, wine and fynbos at Leeu Estates is indeed a ‘High for the Beloved Country’.

Text & Image: Linda Cumming

Gardening in October

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.

Looking out my window it is hard to believe that October, which is supposed to be the fairest month of them all according to C. Louis Leipoldt, is only days away. I have just witnessed my early spring garden being destroyed by another storm and deluge. Cape folklore states that our winter are started and ended by thunder and lighting. We sure had enough of that yesterday, and as a gardener I can only hope that this saying rings true this year. This winter will stand out as one of the longest and wettest ever in the Cape, with many areas already in record territory.

With October hopefully bringing the change in season we expect the gardener can look forward to a bumper season. Ground water levels are as high as ever and as soon as the top layer of soil dries out you can get in there and start preparing and planting your summer beds. We will all have a late season, start planning for it now. The damage you do working waterlogged soil is not worth the 2 week’s earlier flower flush. Thick layers of much will help against compaction, and so would better planning of your garden paths and access to high maintenance areas next season.

I am lucky to have a greenhouse and have been able to start a variety of veggies early this year. These will go out into the garden as soon as it warms up, but we already started to pot some up into larger containers to try and force an early crop should the rain stay a while longer. A greenhouse gives one the ability to garden throughout the season and is one of the best investments a home gardener can make. Make this your project for the season, it is a most rewarding DIY job. There are a few readymade options available, but make sure they can withstand the wind in the Western Cape.

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.

This early in the season most of my energy is spent on the food and medicine garden. Serving a

wholesome salad or some oven baked vegetables that comes out of your own garden is one of the most rewarding benefits of gardening. I always challenge myself to serve a home grown Christmas lunch; and now is the time to start planning and planting for that. All sorts of summer veggies can be sown. Buying some nursery grown seedlings will give you a head start and will fill the gap until your own seedlings have matured. There are some pest that can be troublesome now – slugs and snails, cutworms, white fly and aphids being some of the baddies. Just remember that we grow our own food also for the health benefits and you don’t want to get any nasty chemicals into your system. Keep your insect and fungus control strictly organic as far as anything edible is concerned. I might sound like a broken record, but mulching is one of the best practices you can learn – it not only conserves water, but also suppresses weeds and slowly fertilise your garden. Inoculating that mulch with beneficial microbes will bring true magic to the garden and soil. The alchemy between the roots of plants and the surrounding soil is still not understood, but we cannot deny the wizardry happening there.

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.

FOR:

Emotional eating or eating disorders

High cholesterol, BP and blood sugars

Irritable bowel syndrome

Sports nutrition

Weight management using non-diet approach

Cell: 082 925 0931 or Email: karen@karenpr other oe.co.za

Rainfall

Your flower garden will also need attention. This time of year calls for daily scouting as the change in weather also cause the hatching of all sorts of summer insects. The high disease pressure might need preventative spraying with copper and sulphur, especially on vulnerable plants like roses. Your soil will be leached of nutrients and the entire garden must be fertilised with a balanced organic fertiliser. Add lime to your lawn fertiliser to mitigate the acidifying effect of soggy conditions. This is still a good time to establish new shrubs and the nurseries are ablaze with early season colour should you need to instantly brighten up your spring garden.

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 farm kitchen we are in the yearly famine between winter and summer. You can only eat so much kale and cabbage and the first peas and asparagus was not as successful as previous years. We look forward to the first summer fruits to start cooking up a storm again.

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.

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

Rainfall Figures

KAREN PROTHEROE

Fynbos regenerating against the slopes of Dassenberg where once there were pine and eucalyptus plantations.

THERIZE ROUX

ACVV Franschhoek AGM & Birthday Celebration

On 22 September 2023 the ACVV Franschhoek and ACVV Fleur de Lis had their annual general meeting in the newly-renovated church hall of the Dutch Reformed Church. During this occasion the ACVV Franschhoek also celebrated its 115th birthday with a buffet of sweet and savoury treats and some fine wine from our own Franschhoek Valley. We would like to thank all the guests who attended the meeting, volunteers, staff and sponsors for their loyal support. A special word of thanks also goes to the Dutch Reformed Church for providing the venue and La Provence for donating the wine for the event. Together in Service of the Community.

Top Geographer

Hospice News

Colleen Douglas

Fhk Karatekas Help SA to Top

Three of Sensei Chris Ensil’s karate students took part in the KSI Karate World Championships, which took place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in July 2023.

It was the first time Kayla Nyamayaoro, Jayne Wunder and Curstley Williams represented South Africa and competed at the international level. They did not disappoint and each won a bronze medal. At the same event, former SA national coach Sensei Chris Ensil was promoted to the eighth Dan. The South African team came first out of 22 participating countries.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

Karatekas Kayla Nyamayaoro, Jayne Wunder and Curstley Williams with the medals they won at the KSI Karate World Championships.

Franschhoek Leeskring

Franschhoek Leeskring

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

The Reuben Riffel Golf Day took place on 15 September at Pearl Valley Golf Estate.

A very special “Thank you” to Marcel, Reuben and Maryke for their input and support towards the golf day in aid of Franschhoek Hospice.

The 18th International Geography Olympiad will be held online and hosted by France from 12 to 18 July, under the auspices of the International Geographical Union Olympiad Task Force. iGeo is an annual competition for the best 16 to 19 year-old Geography students from all over the world. Students chosen to represent their countries are the very best, chosen from thousands of students who participate enthusiastically in their own National Geography Olympiads.

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

The Franschhoek Leeskring (Reading Circle) invites all readers to join us on 5 October for refreshments and a book discussion at 14h30, at the Dutch Reformed Hall. Charlotte Michelson-Van Zyl will be discussing ‘All the Light We Cannot See’. A small fee of R30 per guest will be charged, to cover expenses.

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.

We would also like to thank the following sponsors for their amazing support at this year’s golf day: Group 1 Auto, Nissan, Buitenverwachting, Holden Manz Wine Estate, Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty Franschhoek, Reuben’s, Three Streams Smokehouse, Mayflower Cottage, Café du Vin, Alvi’s Drift, Auto Investments Centurion, Anthonij Rupert Wyne, Autosure, Boekenhoutskloof, Citibank, Absa Bank, Franschhoek Cellars, Investec, Haute Cabrière, La Vie de Luc, Mont Rochelle, MFC Nedbank, Ngwenya Glass, Standard Bank, Sedgars Home, Stony Brook Vineyards, Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons, Two in the Bush, Old Road Wine Co., Tallulah’s, Morena, Bonnievale, Leeuwenkuil, Bottega, Telesure, Terbodore, Vrede en Lust, Extreme Golf, Wesbank, Franschhoek Cycles, Wildeberg, Graham Beck, La Cotte Franschhoek, Kitchen Aid Africa, Smitten, Franschhoek Wine Tram, Franschhoek

The aims of the Olympiad are to:

• stimulate active interest in geographical 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;

Motor Museum, Carrol Boyes, Legendonline, Geldhof, Klein Goederust, Hanneli R, Dalkeith, Masquerade, Supergroup, Trafico, Franschhoek Hair and Beauty, Build Africa Energy, Plaisir de Merle, Frater Family Wines, Vondeling, Tokara, Glenwood, NFB Private Wealth Management, Chamonix, Le Quartier Français Leeu Collection, Kilima Franschhoek, Matrix, Wings Group and ProShop.

To all the players who braved the weather to play, thank you for your continued support at this prestigious event.

‘All the Light We Cannot See’ is a 2014 war novel by American author Anthony Doerr. The novel is set during World War II and centres around the characters Marie-Laure LeBlanc, a blind French girl who takes refuge in her uncle’s house in Saint-Malo after Paris is invaded by Nazi Germany, and Werner

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

Pfennig, a bright German boy who is accepted into a military school because of his skills in radio technology, before being sent to the military. The novel is written in a lyrical style, and almost all of the chapters alternate between Marie-Laure’s and Werner’s stories, which parallel each other. The narrative has a nonlinear structure, flashing between the Battle of Saint-Malo and the events leading up to it. The story has ethical themes such as the dangers of greed and the nature of sacrifice, and portrays the destructive nature of war and Doerr’s fascination with science and nature. For further information, contact 084 900 9060

“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.

Hospice News

The Mystery is Almost Over

To the staff and volunteers who stood in the pouring rain welcoming the players and serving refreshments and eats and Trish Heywood for the photographs, a huge thank you from me.

‘Good Life’ in Franschhoek

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

On Saturday evening, 11 June,

It was a day to be remembered. See you all next year!!

filming. As the credits say, no children or animals were harmed in the making of Duke Coulbanis, a close Greek neighbour of Alex’s, with a calling to the Greek Orthodox Church, quips how he had to teach Alex to swear in Greek so she could appear authentically Greek. “Alex honoured me by asking me to help her with the Greek language. Not that they speak Greek in the movie, but Alex’s character needed to ‘swear under her breath’ at various people, and to add an air of authenticity, she wanted to know how to do so in Greek, and accompany it with any gestures that might be applicable.” Duke also holds the distinction of owning the cell phone that filmed Alex’s audition for the role at the local café, Fotini’s. Taki’s, also Greek-owned, was the obvious choice for the movie-going friends to gather for a bite to

You are becoming known as a serial author. Books on the geology of South Africa, a biographical travel book, diamonds. What drives to you write your books?

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. Please diarise the following dates:

Franschhoek’s prolific author Nick Norman is about to publish a new book, his seventh. The Tatler’s book reviewer, Charlotte Michielsen, sat down with him at their favourite coffee shop, The Hoek, to find out what motivates him.

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.

I suppose the spark is curiosity. I want to know why the natural world looks – and works - the way it does.  And I want to share my discoveries with others, to open their eyes and minds to the wonders of the world around them, whether it’s the rock formation along the N1 highway to Johannesburg, or the incredible beauty of a diamond, and the amazing story of its formation and preservation. You are known as a scientific writer. But the title of your new book is “The Woodpecker Mystery”. Is this a new direction?

15 September – Reuben Riffel Golf Day in aid of Franschhoek Hospice at Pearl Valley Golf Estate. For details call hospice office.

7 October – Uncorked – at Leopard’s Leap. An evening of fun and dancing at our fabulous Hospice Hop. R 500 pp includes a delicious meal. Limited seating, 120 seats only.

Franschhoek Hospice patients need the following please: Roll-on deodorant for males and females, soaps, dark face cloths, tooth paste and toothbrushes.

Please drop off at either Hospice House or the Hospice shop. There will be a box at both places waiting to

into its component continents. Then I came across an unexpected clue in the behaviour of one of the smallest, most vulnerable creatures on earth: the tiny grey-cheeked thrush, which barely weighs 30 grams (about the weight of an average field mouse) and, every year, flies from Siberia to Venezuela – and back. This opened up a whole new perspective for me. The capacity of birds, and animals and seeds to be dispersed all over the globe by forces of nature is something that had me wide-eyed with awesome wonder. Now I know it’s the new discipline of biogeography.

receive your generous donations. Thank you 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 far. You have been amazing.

There are still 6 months to go until the end of the year and many more sandwiches and soup to be made! Why not lend a hand?

Thank you to the community and businesses for your continued support. Stay safe, warm, and healthy.

So “The Woodpecker Mystery” defines and explains this new scientific discipline?

Well, there is always an element of mystery in science. Scientists in any field are detectives, confronted daily with mysteries. We belong to the enormously privileged generation to whom technology has given the clues to solve them. So, what is the mystery you have solved in this book?

‘Good Life’ is a good South African story. According to Duke Coulbanis, it is authentically Greek too, with its myriad superstitions and long-held family grudges. The cast is all local actors and actresses, and all look quite Greek. Youngster Caleb Payne does a credible Albanian-speaking Greek with a heavy “H”.

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

Karate Tournament Success

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

I came across it when I saw a South African woodpecker in Chile. I was doing geological research in the interior of the country, my mind far away from South Africa, when I suddenly spotted a familiar bird thousands of kilometres from where I expected it to be. I had no idea how it got there. Then I discovered that there are other bird and tree families shared between Africa and South America.  I was stunned. How did this happen?

How did you set about solving this mystery?

At first, I thought it had happened during Continental Drift, when Gondwanaland broke up

FLTR: Franschhoek Health Club Manager Johan Viljoen, Champion and gold medalist Jayne Wunder and National Coach Sensei Chris Ensil.

Probus Club

MARK TANNER

Text: Barbara Spaanderman | Image: Netflix

Yes. The subtitle, The Inevitability of the Improbable, is taken from a famous quip by Sherlock Holmes, who said that “When you have eliminated that which is impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.” A term that echoes that sentiment occurs regularly in the literature of biogeography –sweepstake dispersal. The odds of birds, or plant seeds, finding their way across the Atlantic Ocean are almost the same as winning the lottery. But it does happen - for thrushes and cattle egrets; for kapok trees, the yellowwood family and coral trees.

Thank you, Nick. When will your book be published and where can we buy it?

It’ll be available in Wordsworth and The Treasure House – as well as Exclusive Books, Bargain Books and others – by mid-to late October and I will be doing some launches around that time. Watch this space.

Text: Charlotte Michielsen | Image: Supplied

Clubs, which offer retirees the facility to manage the transition from a high-pressure executive, professional and other vocational activity to a calmer way of life. This is achieved through these features of membership:

The best achievement from the Franschhoek contingent came from Jayne Wunder, who placed third at the first development tournament and first at the second development tournament after beating all her opponents to claim the gold medal.

Our next meeting is on 2 October when Johann Rousseau will talk about orthopaedic issues and prosthetics. In November Mark Tanner will talk on his experiences as a police officer in Northern Rhodesia (Zambia) in the 1960s prior to independence.

second and third places. SA National Coach, Sensei Chris Ensil says: “We are proud to see that our new home-grown students are starting to bloom.”

• Opportunities to extend compatible social contacts and maintain interest in topical issues

For more information on karate in Franschhoek contact Sensei Chris on 083 505 0808.

Other Franschhoek students also achieved first,

We are planning another outing in November with a visit to Topiary and the Hari Kitchen Restaurant. This will include a tour of the cellar before a tasting of their wines and lunch with panoramic views. More in the next issue.

What is Probus all about?

In SA, there is a rapidly growing number of Probus

• Nurturing positive attitudes to ageing through recreation and sharing information on issues of concern.

Text: Editorial Desk | Images: Supplied

• Support in grief and illness.

• Speakers at monthly luncheons who provide a fresh mental challenge and stimulation.

• We are a-political and non-sectarian We are mindful of the fact that costs are an important consideration. Membership fees, therefore, are kept to a minimum; while monthly luncheon costs vary. Probus is not a Service/Fund Raising organization. More Info: Please contact Mark Tanner on 082 773

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Bridge House School

SA’s top young geographer, Destin Bürgin.

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

Winners received generously donated prizes

Ansche’s People

We can count ourselves rich, living in a close-knit community, knowing that there will always be someone to greet on the main road or grocery store. How about a catch-up with new and old friends over a cup of coffee at one of our lovely cafes? There’s truly nothing like home they say – even if home means one year and four months to this girl who moved all the way from Northwest in May 2022.

Hearing people’s stories has always warmed my heart and since moving to this beautiful valley, I realized that this community is blessed with kind people, whose stories have to be told. Join me on this journey of unravelling the stories behind some familiar faces in Franschhoek.

Joanine Gelderblom was the first friend I made in Franschhoek; she became my home away from home. With her caring heart and cheerful laughter, she can light up any day. Joanine, better known as Blommie, works as a receptionist at the Franschhoek Dutch Reformed Church. To me, she is more like the info hub of this town. Even though she has only been a resident for 11 years, Blommie knows the town’s ins and outs. Paarl is where her roots sprouted, but after an opportunity presented itself to work for the Dutch Reformed Church, she decided to take the leap of faith and move to Franschhoek. Not only is the nickname “Blommie” derived from her surname Gelderblom, but after leaders of a worship group at Strooidakkerk (Paarl Dutch Reformed Church) mentioned that she reminds them of a flower, the nickname stuck.

When she is not answering calls, emails, or compiling programmes or newsletters, she enjoys quiet time in nature, listening to good music, especially on Perron FM. Blommie loves a heartfelt movie or a book that makes you live alongside the characters but also leaves you with something to think about

Sports Centre News

Womens’ (Fashion) Day

What a fabulous Women’s Day event we had at the Franschhoek Valley Community Sport Centre (Hope Through Action/SCORE Centre) on 9 September 2023. Together with confidence coach and personal stylist, Linda Potgieter, we organised a Fashion Frenzy/Fashion Fiesta experience for all the amazing women who serve our Franschhoek community. The special guests included teachers from the ECD centres and schools and representatives of other organisations that promote the betterment of the community.

A huge ‘thank you’ goes to Linda Potgieter for the awesome idea, being the giving person that she is and the hard work and effort that went into realising the event. Thanks are also due to all our sponsors: HTA/ SCORE, Val de Vie Foundation, Nelma, Chatz Charity and Bootleggers Drakenstein Centre. Further thanks go to all the other ladies who worked with Linda to

Editor’s Letter

Siegfried Schäfer

Dear Readers,

Somehow this discussion got me thinking about controversies (some would call them storms in teacups) about some recent film casting decisions.

for the road ahead. If she could describe Franschhoek in one word it would be “beauty” – for its nature and “care” – for the community. What sets Franschhoek apart from other towns is that it is a cosmopolitan town in the countryside.

“We are unique, consisting of a wide variety of cultures.

The fact that not only the locals but people from all over the world see the potential and beauty of this town; to the extent that they want to make it their home says a lot.”

With this beautiful town and its people, Blommie’s hope for the future of Franschhoek is that the community will strive to live in unity together, standing by each other through the highs and lows of life and that rich and poor will feel at home; that they all belong.

Faith is Blommie’s foundation and the following quote is what gives her strength every day: “Be a blessing to others, so that I can be a blessing to you.”

What I would want for Blommie, is for her to realize that just as the beautiful statue of the woman at the Huguenot Memorial Monument, she is a statue in our midst that represents true humility, love, and compassion to all those around her.

“Being humble means recognizing that we are not on earth to see how important we can become, but how much difference we can make in the lives of others.” –

Gordon B. Hinckley

Text & Image: Ansche Grobler

Two weeks ago, I was part of a rather interesting discussion on a sensitive topic. I wish I could say that we resolved the issue but then again I don’t think anybody has ever successfully resolved this type of issue to everybody’s satisfaction. In truth, I doubt that one ever could.

What triggered the discussion was what we all agreed was an insensitively placed architectural feature. It was however the nature of the feature that triggered the discussion. The architect responsible for it referred to it as a ‘bell tower’; somewhere in the discussion though somebody referred to it as a ‘slave bell’. The genie was now well and truly out of the bottle…

Some of those involved in the discussion felt it was crass and insensitive in this day and age to construct a ‘slave bell’, or something that looks like one – even if it’s called a bell tower. Others felt that if a bell tower didn’t date from the slave period it was unfair to taint it with the moniker ‘slave bell’ and that later constructions were simply the time signalling devices of the period. Now that such devices are completely archaic, they maintain, one should look at contemporary ones simply as aesthetic features or architectural follies. What do you think?

It is worth noting at this point that there are no original slave bells on any farms in the Franschhoek Valley and most properties at the time probably never had them. The simple truth is that bells were expensive and many early farmers simply couldn’t afford them.

A recent example would be the gentile Bradley Cooper’s portrayal of the Jewish Leonard Bernstein. Of course, there is no controversy when a Jewish actor portrays a gentile character, which in my liberal thinking is a serious double standard! Not so in the neo-fascist woke cancel culture that seems to dominate the arts, entertainment and even sports these days…

A possibly even more controversial casting decision was in the offing some time ago when it was suggested that Idris Elba could be the next James Bond. (Elba is black, for those not familiar with this great actor or his work.) I really had trouble getting my head around this thinking. James Bond may be fictional, but he’s fictional and white and has been such since Ian Fleming first created him!

I had to however remind myself that 007 wouldn’t be the first Bond franchise character to undergo a racial transformation. Miss Moneypenny, M’s secretary, has since 2012 been portrayed by Naomi Harris – a black actress. I quickly got used to Moneypenny being black, so I would probably be able to eventually get my head around a black 007. As long as they pick him for his ability to inhabit the character and not just to be seen as politically correct…

In this regard, I also had to remind myself of any number of wonderful British period pieces I have watched and enjoyed in which black actors portrayed characters that would have been white in that historical period. It certainly didn’t stop me from enjoying the shows. In truth, once past the character’s first five seconds of screen time, it feels quite, well –normal!

Perhaps there is still a glimmer of politicallycorrect hope for old-style liberals like me… Until next month!

DEADLINES - NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE

Bookings - 16 October 2023 | Artwork - 19 October 2023 | Editorial - 16 October 2023

A Franschhoek Village Special Rating Area

“Safer, cleaner, greener, caring”

At the time of going to press, a public meeting was scheduled for 27 September for the presentation of a draft business plan to establish a Special Rating Area (SRA) in “the village” – prepared by a steering committee headed by Pat Jacobs with members Barry Phillips, Wilfred Moses, Irmela Alberts and Ashley Bauer.

car guards. This means a third iteration of the very successful Private Security Initiative which relied on voluntary contributions will no longer be necessary. In the residential areas, there will be a highly visible, branded, mobile patrol 24/7.

The invited ladies were treated to some free shopping.

make this event a success; Anthea, Hadley, Jessica, Nadia, Karen, Cara, Natalie Fox, Pam and Wendy. Although we had to postpone the event from the original date, we are grateful that we were able to show our appreciation to the ladies of the valley. All the invited ladies left with a smile as they enjoyed some free shopping on the way home! On top of this four ladies went home with R500 cash prizes, one with a new sowing machine valued at R10 000 and another with a brand new iPhone 12.

An SRA in the Stellenbosch Municipality can be established with the approval of the Council if 60% + 1 of the ratepayers in the area agree. They then pay an additional rate which is paid over to a NonProfit Company (NPC) (of which they are members and directors) to provide the additional security and supplement municipal services specified in the business plan.

The draft business plan envisages the extension of the CCTV network to cover the whole village. Individual ratepayers will no longer have to pay for monitoring costs as many currently do. Upgraded software will enable tracking of potential intruders.

There will be smartly dressed foot patrols on Huguenot Street to displace the self-appointed

With additional street cleaning and emptying of public litter bins, the sight of litter and overflowing bins should no longer be a problem.

The NPC will also support NGOs in community and social development helping to address vagrancy and reintegrate and provide activities for street children.

Pat Jacobs said “With an SRA, we can, acting together as a community, make our village a safer, cleaner, greener and more caring place – and keep it that way. ”

Ratepayers in the proposed Franschhoek Village SRA will be voting for or against its establishment during October.

Any questions? Call Pat Jacobs on 073 535 0007.

Text: Barry Phillips

Business Leadership

AND NOW FOR SPRING!

If Autumn and Winter are the season for cleaning out the cupboard, for pruning and for preparing for the new season then Spring is the time to start new and exciting and innovative activities and trajectories.

Of course, if you did not do any cleaning out and pruning during Winter there is still time because Spring has not yet arrived but is just around the corner. Organisations, and people like you and I, are much better at taking on additional activities and responsibilities than we are at throwing out old ones, or ones that no longer function the way they used to or were intended to. The wise and clever amongst us undertake this cleaning out activity regularly, religiously, and seriously.

Most of us have sufficient ‘stuff’ on our plates that competently and continuously keeps us operating

at high stress levels. This is not sensible nor is it good for the health of oneself, nor the well-being of the organisation and its inhabitants. The selfrespecting and outstanding leaders that I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with over many years take the business of reducing the levels of stress in the organisation very seriously as they know that stressed people can never deliver fully what they are truly capable of delivering.

You see this with sportsmen and women, too. When they are relaxed and operating at optimal levels, they deliver much better results than when they are tense and over worried about the outcome. This does not mean that they should not take the game seriously. They should and they do. If you were able to watch our National Netball team playing in the recent World Cup in Cape Town, the sheer joy on the faces of our ladies spoke volumes about their enjoyment of being on the court and playing the game they love so much. This is what we need to do. We need to clean out the stuff that so often gets in the way of optimal performance. We need to simplify our lives and the way our organisation works so that the movement inside the organisation is fluid, easily understood

The Chamber’s Choice

Cedric Riffel, owner of CJR Corporation Pty Ltd

Cedric Riffel, the owner of CJR Corporation (Pty) Ltd, is a local entrepreneur, a highly skilled carpenter, and a visionary in Franschhoek’s construction industry. Cedric was born and bred in Franschhoek where he went to school, leaving only to go to high school in nearby Paarl. He has, throughout his life, watched – and been a pivotal part of – the development of Franschhoek’s buildings and homes from the ground up. His vast expertise stems from years of hands-on experience in the construction industry. Cedric honed his skills as a foreman at Almor Construction for almost seven years, where he observed the intricate workings of a construction business, from the technical aspects of carpentry to the nuances of running a successful enterprise. Equipped with this invaluable experience, Cedric took a bold step in 2004 when he founded his

own business, CJR Corporation, naming it after his three beloved children. His dedication to delivering quality services and maintaining a sustainable business quickly earned him a stellar reputation. But Cedric sees his greatest achievement as his ability to support and nurture his parents, siblings, and children, forging their paths to success and helping them to prosper. His son, Creston Riffel, now follows in his father’s footsteps, also becoming a skilled carpenter under Cedric’s trusty tutelage.

Cedric’s latest project, the renovation of the local pub, The Elephant and Barrel, is a testament to his ability to transform spaces. Soon, locals will be able to enjoy Cedric’s craftsmanship over a draught of their favourite beer! Cedric’s commitment to excellence extends to his choice of suppliers, his work ethic, and his dedication to delivering only the best to his clients. His business was officially registered in 2004. He is also registered with the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC), signalling that his business is fully compliant and a quality

and satisfying for all who work there.

So, what is that we should be cleaning out and pruning before Spring arrives?

The first thing we need to do is to assess whether the principles, processes and procedures are simple, well understood, and easy to use. In other words, do these organisational arteries and nerves facilitate superior performance or not. If not, change them or dump them, but do not just live with them. Not doing this will function as a demotivator. It is essential to remember that the beneficiaries of excellent systems and procedures should ultimately be our key stakeholders, and most essentially amongst these, our clients!

The second critical cleaning out and pruning activity should be to re-evaluate the relationships in the organisation and with those critical stakeholders. Are they healthy, positive, and sustainable? Or are they scratchy, tense, tenuous and subject to frequent power outages? If the latter is the case, then there is much work to be done because successful business depends almost entirely on successful enduring relationships. Sometimes it becomes necessary to fire a person, not because they cannot do the job, but because their negative impact on healthy productive relationships impedes the organisation’s ability to be

the very best that it can be. First prize, of course, is to fix the attitudes and interpersonal channels so that dismissal does not become the inevitable end result.

The final critical element of the cleaning out and pruning initiative is to ensure that everyone knows exactly what is required of him or her. So often the lines between jobs blur and this, in itself, results in fractious relationships. All jobs have a fundamental responsibility of making the jobs of others easier. Not more difficult. When roles and responsibilities are blurred this essential team focus tends to be lost in the tension that arises from the uncertainty and confusion. None of this happens without leadership. Clear, visionary, and supportive leadership is a crucial element in helping everyone to understand the necessity of cleaning out and rebooting for a new season of activity and growth. It doesn’t happen without leadership!

Once the cleaning and pruning processes are complete, let us lift our heads to the rising sun and gaze at the future which is on its way knowing that we are well prepared to take on all the challenges of the new season and the hot summer that will follow it! tony@siroccostrategy.com

provider in the construction field. To enquire about his services or to hire Cedric Riffel and CJR Corporation for your construction needs, you can reach him on 073 108 4586 or send him an email at cedirickriffel@gmail.com. You can also follow his business and view samples of his beautiful craftsmanship on Facebook.

Text: Leila Shirley | Image: Supplied

Call Them to Haul, Horse and All

If love and marriage go together like a horse and carriage then the same can – less prosaically – be said of the storage and removal businesses. Shaun and Christie Winkler of Franschhoek Storage are setting out to prove this with Franschhoek Removals.

The Winklers certainly are no strangers to Franschhoek. Their business premises in Fabriek Street have been in the family for 26 years.

Shaun’s grandfather, Don Bailey, the previous owner of Mont Marte farm, bought the premises and set up Avis Forklift Franschhoek. Shaun’s mother, Susan Bailey, built up Avis Forklift over many years which expanded into Franschhoek Storage due to the growing need for storage space in the village.

Avis Forklift was sold in 2018 and Shaun and Christie took over Franschhoek Storage when they moved here in 2019 after careers in the film and television industry. (Shaun was a cameraman and production manager for more than 20 years and Christie still owns a successful teleprompting business based in Johannesburg.) They immediately put their stamp on the business by investing in building improvements, adding many more bays, acquiring additional trailers to boost their hiring fleet and offering packaging material sales. All of which has made their facility the state-of-the-art business it is today.

If they already had the proverbial horse, they’ve now added the carriage by adding Franschhoek Removals to their interests. In addition to Shaun and Christie, there are also some other familiar faces at Franschhoek Removals. Isaac Ratlali worked for Shaun’s grandfather and later built a sterling removal reputation alongside Gerald Motsie while working for the late Gerald Fourie of the eponymous former removals company. They have been joined by newcomers Yam Mhonie and Thebe Setati. The outstanding work ethic of these four men has already built them a stellar reputation with everybody they’ve helped move.

Franschhoek Removals operates with a new Isuzu

500 dry body (your things won’t get wet in transit!) as well as a bakkie and trailer option. They also provide wrapping services for clients wanting a stress-free, hands-off experience. Their distinctive blue logo features the Winklers’ four-and-a-half-year-old Husky, Luna, which they adopted from Oscars Arc when they moved down to the Cape. Huskies being loyal working dogs synonymous with hauling.

Shaun and Christie say they’ve been pleasantly surprised by the support they’re already receiving – often because clients remember Isaac and Gerald from when they worked for Gerald Fourie. They undertake both commercial and residential moves and have fine-tuned their offering to offer great value for money. As such they don’t charge mileage for moves within the village and offer discounts on second loads and mid-month moves.

Franschhoek Removals’ reputation is already spreading beyond the Cape Winelands. They’ve already undertaken moves to and from both the West Coast and Garden Route.

In case you’re wondering, they’ll move practically anything they can fit in their truck, from fine artwork to pallets of whiskey!

021 876 2174 | www.franschhoek-storage.business.site

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

Deployment

Ÿ FWV will be responsible for managing the funds.

Invoicing will be sent via email or via WhatsApp and will be transparent

Ÿ Payment due on invoice date.

Ÿ Companies can claim the payment as security expense or VAT deduction. Send POP to fhoekpatrol@gmail.com for allocation against your invoice.

ENDORSED BY

Christie and Shaun Winkler with the Franschhoek Removals team

Please share a bit about your background?

I have been married to a fantastic woman, Jacolene, since 2010 and have a son, Christean (8). We are outdoor people and enjoy the outdoor life. I was born somewhere between Kimberley and Petrusburg, in the Free State, and I am a staunch Cheetah supporter!

My professional background is rooted in education, leadership and ministry. I taught at Ladybrand High School; in the Eastern Free State, Technical High School Kimberley, was deputy head at Kathu High School and for the past eight years, the head of the high school at Curro Heuwelkruin in Polokwane, the heart of the beautiful bushveld.

The first time I set foot in Franschhoek was in September 2022 for the interview for the principal’s vacancy. The location and the people blew me away.

What is your vision for FHS?

My vision is to ensure quality education that motivates and empowers our learners to be lifelong learners, productive members of society, and willing participants in the educational process – thus taking ownership of their future. Education is about more than feeding children information; it’s an activity

Poetic Licence

I first met the young poet Andrew Tudhope when, as a student at Rhodes University, he appeared at a monthly Reddits Poetry event. I can’t remember what he read that night but I do know that he showed both talent and an ardent interest in using words – poetry – to express powerfully felt sensitivities.

As a deep thinker and thoroughly empathetic human being, it quickly became clear that Andy was committed to social justice and wished to use his considerable intellectual gifts to make a tangible difference in the world. After graduating, he moved away and we lost touch as he plotted a course into the world of corporate investment and web development, then into the (to me) much more obscure realm of digital finance - Bitcoin and blockchain technology. By chance, our paths crossed again at Chintsa East on the Wild Coast where my wife and I had

Book Review

CHARLOTTE VAN ZYL

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

Publ. Faber. 546 pages

There has been almost as much written about the relationship between Dickens’ “David Copperfield” and Kingsolver’s “Demon Copperhead” as there has been about the merits of the book itself. Which is a shame. There is undoubtedly a connection between the two authors. The rumour being that Kingsolver, while visiting Dickens’ old house in London resolved to carry on his profound belief in depicting the situation of orphans in an uncaring society. In his case, the dire poverty resulting from the Industrial Revolution. In her case the Opioid Epidemic ravaging the American South, especially in the Appalachian Mountains.

There are undoubtedly parallels between the two books and a cottage industry has arisen studying the these analogies, comparing Mr Micawber to the McCobbs, James Steerforth to the pill-popping school quarterback known as Fast Forward and Agnes

that requires participation, innovation, mutual respect, individuality, honesty, and discipline.

FHS has a rich history spanning 173 years. And its history is interwoven with that of the town and the valley’s families. The school must connect with this history to restore its previous glory. It can only be achieved through healthy relationships between stakeholders (school, parents, and community).

How do you envision the school’s role in the local community’s development?

Schools are more than just places of learning: they give learners a sense of belonging. And students with a strong sense of community are, in turn, more likely to be academically motivated, ethical, and socially and emotionally developed.

Meaningful relationships are at the heart of this process. Teaching is not a job we can do effectively in isolation. Indeed, it takes a village – and an engaged community. By listening to the feedback and ideas of students, parents, and community members, we can build fruitful partnerships that will facilitate education and uplift the youth of the valley.

How will you ensure that technology is fully incorporated into the school’s teaching methods to best prepare students for the future?

I love technology and firmly believe in taking full advantage of it in the classroom. I come from an environment that has embraced innovative learning modalities to fruitful ends. It can be challenging to convince our more mature staff to get on board with these developments. Still, it is a challenge that I gladly accept, as it is essential to providing learners with the tools they need to navigate the ever-changing modern economy. How will you promote and celebrate diversity within the school?

Where prejudices are allowed to go unchallenged, we continue to favour the beliefs, values, culture, and

a house overlooking the dune forest to the Indian Ocean, and Andy’s parents owned a nearby property. It was here that we discussed our shared passion for the natural world, expressed largely in poetry. And it was here that Andy’s profound concern for others less fortunate than himself became clear to me. This little poem offers a flavour of his genuine goodness:

Township Sport

A small black boy stuck his fingers up my nose.

Haai mlungu! he said, You have snot too!

Of course I do, I said, just like you!

He smiled.

I smiled.

The wrestling match continued.

(from Recollections & Roadtrips)

Elsewhere in the same self-published collection, he writes: “I am overrun by dreams”. But he works hard to find pragmatic fulfilment to his dreams,

Whitfield to “Angus” the girl that Demon marries. But there is another book that casts even more light on the Kingsolver book than the Dickens original. And that is “Hillbilly Elegy”, that gritty evocation of life in the Appalachians during the Opioid Epidemic. Dickens would have appreciated the depiction of dirt-scrabble poverty and the exploitation of the county’s coal resources by mercenary industrialists ensconced in their New York mansions.

Kingsolver hails from the Appalachians herself and the language she gives Demon is slangy and pithy. It is this voice that catches your attention and holds it through all the vicissitudes of his journey to adulthood.

She captures the slang of the locker room, the jargon of brutal tobacco farmers, as well as the tender dialogue between a kid that finds a momentary ally in another frightened homeless child.

As I was drawn into the story that Demon spins out for nearly 600 pages I was reminded of two other American authors that had also created memorable and eloquent child characters, J.D. Salinger and Mark Twain. The voices of Holden Caulfield and Huckleberry Finn are remarkably similar to that of Demon Copperhead. Witty, mistrustful of adults, independent, yet at the same time responsive to kindness and aware of the vulnerability of others.

In this story the hero is named Damon, but this is

people with which we are best acquainted. South Africa’s learners are not uniform. And if diversity is what you have, then inclusion is what you must do. We have to celebrate our differences. It makes us stronger.

FHS embraces and celebrates the full range of human diversity, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical value systems, and political beliefs. This inclusivity forms part of our educational ethos and curriculum: a deliberate act intended to create an environment where all kinds of young people can thrive and succeed.

What are the main challenges for FHS, and how do you plan to address them?

The greatest challenge we face is that the high school is in the centre of Franschhoek, but the learners come from diverse communities throughout the valley (and beyond).

When FHS is mentioned, the picture that comes to mind does not correlate with what one sees when visiting the school. Bridging the gaps, finding common ground, and determining where the school fits into a bigger picture is difficult. It comes with unique challenges. Hopefully, they can be remedied and addressed with more parent and community involvement.

How will you encourage greater parental engagement with the school?

Parents are their child’s first and most important teacher. I invite all our parents to play an active role in their children’s education and school life. They should get to know the staff, especially their children’s teachers, and help where they can so we can work together in everyone’s interest. We therefore see parents as our invaluable partners, with whom we must communicate effectively and share accountability.

How can the community get involved in supporting the school?

I am overwhelmed by the sense of community

combining sharp financial acumen with practical and inspiring outcomes. His focus has always been on giving back rather than taking. Andy Tudhope is undeniably one of life’s ‘good guys’. So when I happened unexpectedly upon the following poem, which I suspect he must have sent me at some point, I felt impelled to share it with you.

Espera I read my teacher’s poem aloud to an empty river, for this is what I know of worship.

To watch the pied kingfisher piping its truth between perfect little darts beneath the dancing surface which still, most times, come back empty-beaked.

I waded through the musk-scented empires of a book about loss, naked in that salty river, which used the recent rains to burst its sandy banks and return, before

changed to Demon because of his red hair, which naturally leads to the nickname of Copperhead. His father dies before he is born and he is left in the care of his feckless and careless mother, who very soon inflicts a stepfather on him. It is difficult to imagine a greater monster than Stoner, and Demon has to learn to survive in a home where there is no love or care.

When his mother dies of an opioid overdose the orphan is put in care and he is introduced to the hardship of being required to work for a cruel, malicious foster father. A dawn-to-dusk job, gathering tobacco leaves and working in the fields. Only his irrepressible, good-humoured commentary on his life makes this episode in his life bearable.

Luckily, he puts on a growth spurt which allows him to play college football and gives him some social recognition. He is at first assisted in this by the unscrupulous athlete Fast Forward, who

here in Franschhoek and by the number of volunteers extending a helping hand. I would like to invite the broader community of Franschhoek to visit us and familiarise themselves with the avenues available for participation.

I know the alumni fondly remember their time at school and I would like to encourage them to get more involved. Share your fondly remembered stories, photos, and experiences with us, demonstrating to this generation of learners how essential their education is in paving the way to a brighter future.

the sun’s drumcrush dried it up again, the light’s din something you can hear only here, where courageous scales cavort in the face of two breeding fish eagles and their ancient harmony. Come here, young one, just learning of your ancestors; come here and cover yourself in the soft Cintsa mud from which first we made you, whispering in waves another sacred word, somewhere between waiting and hoping: a simple flower, grown on the edge of time, reciting old lines to literally no-one but the starlings and that flight of black cormorants followed by one white cattle egret, cawing in its own awkward way another remembrance of god.

AndyTudhope

subsequently betrays his trust by stealing his girlfriend. However, as happens in most epic stories involving ambitious young men, Demon eventually achieves the happiness and security that has eluded him for so long.

Although long, this novel is addictively readable and the impish voice of Demon keeps pulling you back to the pages.

Will this novel drive you to (re)read David Copperfield? It just might.

with Jaco Haasbroek, Principal of Franschhoek High School (FHS)

HARRY OWEN

JOB WANTED: My name is Patuma Duncan and I am a Malawian lady looking for a job. I have experience as a cleaner and worked at La Ferme Chantelle for one year. I work with integrity and confidence with or without supervision. I consider myself to be an honest, hardworking and disciplined person who is prepared to go beyond what is expected of me. Please contact me on 069 770 6880. For a reference, please call 082 628 0923.

PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR: 35 years in business. Hire Patrick de Marco for extra marital affairs & cheating partners, criminal or civil investigations. Confidentiality and professionalism guaranteed. Call or WhatsApp Patrick now: 084 677 8731

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

BOOKKEEPING SERVICES WINELANDS: We provide affordable accounting, payroll and tax services to individuals, small to medium sized entities and trusts. We also offer cloud accounting and are certified partners with Sage, Xero & QuickBooks for cloud accounting and registered member of SAIT. Call Lee-Ann 076 321 5274

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DO YOU STILL HAVE THAT POOL LEAK? Losing water all the time? Let us quote and take care of the problem! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355

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

Community Events

SPORT

FRANSCHHOEK TENNIS CLUB: Social tennis is played at the club on Fridays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 08h30. For more information contact Ross. 078 278 4843.

PARKRUN: Saturdays at Rickety Bridge Wine Estate.

Time: 08h00. Cost: Free. Register at www.parkrun.co.za

CHURCH SERVICES

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

NG KERK: Sondagdienste 09h30. Geen aanddiens.

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

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

ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Groot Drakenstein. Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Revd Wilfred Meyer 084 407 1280. Office - 021 874 4008. willowdale@cybersmart.co.za

SHOFAR CHRISTIAN CHURCH: Services - 09h00 & 18h00 English services at 7 Lambrechts Street. Pastor Richard Wade. 083 225 8529. All welcome!

TRINITY CHURCH: Worship Sundays at 09h30 at L’Ermitage Chapel, with Holy Communion. Weekday service Thursday at 10h30 at Fleur de Lis. Contact Gavin – 083 799 0726.

UNITING REFORMED CHURCH: Sunday service 09h30. Dr Shaun Burrows. 021 876 2632. Visitors welcome.

Contact

Useful Numbers

Discover Franschhoek’s Pristine Mountainland

Situated high above the Franschhoek Valley the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve (established 1983) is part of a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site - the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas (2004) and linked to the UNESCO-designated Boland Biosphere Reserve.

Ever since 1823 mountain springs in the reserve have provided Franschhoek with high quality drinking water. The reserve is known for its spectacular views of the valley, diverse plant and small animal life and well-maintained network of hiking trails. It is also a popular

destination for trail runners.

sandstone that was raised as a mountain range more than 265 million years ago. The present mountain and valley landscape is the result of erosion over the past 140 million years.

Three large peaks dominate the reserve: Perdekop (1575 m), DuToitskop (1418m) and Middagkrans (1029 m). In summer southeasterly winds can form impressive 'cloudfalls' over Middagkrans.

Both summer and winter weather conditions in the reserve can be challenging to the uninitiated - the former being hot and dry and the later wet and cold with occasional snow on the higher ground.

The reserve's flora consists of montane fynbos established on leached acidic sandy soils. Fynbos (the world's smallest and most diverse plant kingdom) is primarily characterised by four types of plants: Proteas, Ericas, Restios (reed-like plants resembling grass) and geophytes (bulbs).

www.montrochellehiking.co.za

FRANSCHHOEK

Magnificent tranquillity in a private location

Located in a secluded corner of Franschhoek, this property comprises four dwellings and is set in an awe-inspiring landscaped garden. Set across an two hectares of land, the grounds are rich with a variety of plant species and feature trees, meandering walkways and serene, shaded seating areas.

Smallholding

4 Beds | 4 Baths | Study | 2 Garages |

Exclusive Mandate: Lifestyle farm in a prime Cape Winelands location

Comprising almost seven hectares of land, this agriculturally zoned property has three en suite bedrooms, a double garage, a lovely pool area, income-producing cottage units, staff accommodation, stores and stables.

Gracious manor house and guesthouse on four hectares

Built in a historic French Chateau style, Chateau Dauphine’s manor house was constructed in 2011 and offers 850m 2 of living space consisting of four en suite bedrooms, a spacious lounge, an elegant French country kitchen, and an open-plan dining and entertainment area.

Francolin

3 Beds | 2.5 Baths | 3 Receptions | 2 Garages | Pool

Exclusive Joint Mandate: Stylish estate living with spectacular views This home is designed to maximise views and offers generous proportions throughout. This is secure estate living at its best, with a backup electricity supply to ensure uninterrupted living.

Calais

7 Beds | 7 Baths | 3 Receptions | 2 Garages | Pool

Impeccable home in a quiet location

This large residence is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac and is well-maintained and versatile. It offers a variety of amenities and works equally well as a home for a large family or as a guesthouse for the discerning investor.

Marble House

1 Bed | 1 Bath | 2 Receptions | Security | Pool

Modern apartment in Franschhoek

Located in Artisan Village, this luxury one-bedroomed apartment in a small block is just across from the famous Franschhoek Wine Tram. Enjoy beautiful views of the village and surrounding mountains from your balcony.

Web Ref 5648963

Ref 3886316

Web Ref RL20729

Web Ref 5874818

Web Ref RL20737

Web Ref RL20731

FOUR BEDROOM VILLAGE PROPERTY

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

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

R12 000 000

LOCAL EXPERTISE

NATIONAL PRESENCE INTERNATIONAL AUDIENCE

4 BEDROOM HOME WITH BEAUTIFUL GARDEN

Sole Mandate. Charming centrally located double storey character property bursting with style and period features. Three bedroom main house, open plan kitchen/dining/living area, separate one bedroom apartment, garden office, deep covered stoep, secluded garden with pool and mature trees, and ample off-street parking complete this charming property. Erf size 735m2

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R7 950 000

3 BEDROOM VILLAGE PROPERTY WITH STUNNING VIEWS

This double storey 3 bedroom home enjoys a large plot and an elevated position affording wonderful mountain views. Very spacious first floor living room/kitchen/dining room. Large covered verandah, mature garden, family pool, three double bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, double length integrated double garage, full solar power system. Erf size 1235m2

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

LA DEMEURE

Rare opportunity to build your dream home on one of the last plots in this exclusive boutique estate. Nestled on the lower slopes of the Franschhoek Pass with breathtaking views across the valley but within easy walking distance to Franschhoek Village. Plot sizes range from 3.194m2 to 3,932m2 No transfer duties are payable.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114 R9 600 000 incl VAT

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

R7 950 000

TWO HECTARE FRANSCHHOEK SMALLHOLDING

Idyllic 2ha smallholding in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley. This remarkable property consists of 4 separate dwellings nestled amongst manicured gardens, vineyards, orchards, and a private lake, all cradled by the Franschhoek Mountains. The heart is the beautifully appointed main house (Lake Cottage). Secluded, intimate, and surrounded by nature this is genuinely one of a kind. Currently run as up-market accommodation its ideal as a permanent home, accommodation or a flexible combination. Price excludes VAT.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R55 000 000 plus VAT

IDEAL HOLIDAY RENTAL INVESTMENT PROPERTY

This character three bedroom Victorian style cottage is currently run as a highly successful holiday rental and would make an attractive investment property. Solid wood floors, sash windows and french doors create a warm and inviting feel throughout. VAT is applicable on top of the asking price but would qualify for zero-rating. No transfer duties.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

R6 500 000 plus VAT

FOUR BEDROOM VILLAGE HOME

Sole Mandate. The heart of this delightful home is the spacious living/dining room with wood burning fireplace, open plan to a well-appointed kitchen. Large master-bedroom with garden views and full en-suite bathroom. Further three double bedrooms and two bathrooms (one ensuite, one family). The living area flows out onto a covered verandah with breath-taking mountain views and small pool. Large double garage. Full solar installation. Furniture and non-personal contents are included in the price. Erf size 800m2

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

R7 500 000

TWO-BEDROOM APARTMENT

Sole Mandate. Fully renovated first floor apartment on La Petite Provence secure estate. Offering an easy lifestyle for either permanent or lock-upand-go living. Well-appointed kitchen provides counter seating and an open-plan layout. The lounge/ living area enjoys plenty of light, a fireplace and a private balcony. The two bedrooms with built in cupboards share a full bathroom. Also includes a dedicated, covered parking bay.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R2 999 000

MANOR HOUSE ON LA PETITE PROVENCE ESTATE

Large double storey 4 bedroom family home with separate apartment on large plot on the secure La Petite Provence Estate. This ideal family home includes a spacious living/dining room/kitchen, second living/tv room flowing to a garden room with mountain views. The large garden includes a sparkling pool and lawned areas. Separate one bedroom apartment, double garage and off-street parking. The Estate includes a clubhouse, swimming pool, walking trails and tennis court. Erf size 1708m2

Tom Clode 079 955 3114

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

R9 950 000