The Bag That Builds
Swimming SA Meets Ratepayers
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.
Swimming SA (SSA) met with the executive committee of the Franschhoek Heritage and Ratepayers Association (FHRPA) on Tuesday, 27 August. The meeting took place at the request of FHRPA and a follow-up meeting is planned to interrogate financial aspects of the much-delayed high performance sport centre being developed on the grounds of Franschhoek High School.
The ratepayers committee’s chairman, Adv Wilfred Moses, in opening the meeting emphasised the committee’s concern about the general welfare of the community, its environment and, particularly, that of Franschhoek High School.
SSA CEO, Shaun Adriaanse, opened by stating that the aim of the project is to produce medal-winning Olympians. He explained that when the project started in 2017 SSA was approached to endorse the project. In 2019 this changed to a partnership with the developer – Train Camp (Pty) Ltd.
At the heart of the pilot project is a technology developed by the Center for Regenerative Design & Collaboration (CRDC). The technology allows plastic to be converted into an eco-additive – RESIN8 –that is added to concrete in the manufacturing of structural and other concrete products.
take part in the pilot programme.
Further partnerships were entered into with World Aquatics and Boland Athletics in 2020 and 2021, respectively. SSA initiated source funding in September 2022 before, along with Boland Athletics, becoming the sole funders of the project in 2023. In 2024 the relationship with the developer was put under review with the aim to reach a resolution by the end of September 2024.
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.
Adriaanse assured the committee that sufficient funding is in place from the National Lottery to complete the project. Construction, which was halted by the very wet rainy season, is set to restart in October 2024, with a completion date set for June 2025. If all goes to plan the programmes offered at the high performance centre should deliver its first Olympic medallists in 2032.
Besides Boland Athletics, SSA confirmed that it is also approaching a number of other Olympic sporting codes to become part of the project. It is also in discussions regarding the project with representatives of various spheres of government, sporting bodies and other stakeholders.
In closing his presentation, Adriaanse stressed that the school will also benefit from the facilities being created and the importance of the school,
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
town and sport associations working together to realise the full potential of the project.
Franschhoek High School terminated its lease with Train Camp (Pty) Ltd in August 2024. Train Camp, in turn, has established a developer’s lien against school facilities, including two hostels, claiming that the school has not fulfilled its contractual obligations.
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.
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 more information or if you have any form of plastic that you want to get rid of feel free to contact Jocelyn at 073 587 6132.
The Tatler contacted Train Camp’s Wim Fourie for his position regarding the situation on the campus. Fourie stated that SSA is perpetrating several misrepresentations, in particular regarding who holds valid leases and subleases on the campus and the sources and security of funding. According to Fourie, Train Camp still holds a valid lease with Franschhoek High School. He also questioned the security of funding for the aquatics centre (to be provided by SSA), stating that as developer of the project he has not been privy to anything proving this to be the case. He confirmed that Train Camp has had intermittent contact with SSA with a view to resolve their differences and remains keen to find a solution.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied
Text & Image: Editorial Desk
On Thursday, 8 December 2022, the first 830 bags of plastic waste collected in the valley were sent to a cuttingedge plant in Cape Town to be turned into an innovative eco-aggregate
Little progress has been visible on the high performance centre’s site this year.
Clean Audit Achieved
Stellenbosch Municipality recently received the good news that it received a clean audit from the Auditor-General of SA for the 2022-2023 financial year.
“Good governance,” the municipality said in a statement, “is the cornerstone of a thriving community, and a clean audit is a testament to this commitment. It signifies more than just financial compliance – it’s about transparency, accountability, and trust at every level of governance.”
A clean audit reflects rigorous scrutiny of processes and procedures, ensuring that every cent is accounted for and allocated efficiently to support essential public services. This achievement means that the
municipality produced quality financial statements free from material misstatements, delivered reliable performance reports that accurately measure progress, and complied with key legislation.
Executive Mayor Adv. Gesie van Deventer added that “This is not just about numbers – it’s about responsible leadership and a dedication to serving our community effectively.”
Text: Editorial Desk
‘Don’t Panic’ at Franschhoek Theatre
Award-winning comedian Kate Pinchuck is bringing her latest show ‘Don’t Panic’ to the Franschhoek Theatre on 26 October 2026 at 19h00.
Pinchuck attempts to navigate millennial angst and the societal pressure to have a house, 2.4 kids, a thriving career, and zero mental health issues by the age of 31, even though she is 31 and has none of those things. It’s fine though - she has a comedy show instead, and it turns out, sometimes moving back in with your psychologist parents in your 30s can be hilarious, especially because you don’t have to do your own laundry. Being an adult is terrifying, but don’t panic. She’s going to talk you through it. Pinchuck is an award-winning and SAFTAnominated actor, writer, and stand-up comedian. She is a multiple Standard Bank Ovation awardwinner for comedy and theatre works. Her debut solo comedy show ‘Trash Mouth’ was described by Netwerk24 as “smart, challenging and provocative… bullseye laughing potion.”
She continues to write on personal projects for stage and screen under the banner of her
production company, Medusa Media, co-founded with her writing partner Sean Mongie.
‘Don’t Panic’ is directed by another comedian – Nik Rabinowitz. Rabinowitz was born in a converted stable on a farm outside Cape Town, South Africa. He grew up climbing pine trees and commentating on his own rugby games in three of the country’s eleven official languages, later attending a Waldorf school, where he learned how to plant organic vegetables, express his feelings through interpretative dance, and crochet his own underpants. He is unofficially recognised as the world’s leading Xhosa-speaking Jewish legspinner of Lithuanian descent.
‘Don’t Panic’ has an age restriction of 16, due to mature content and strong language.
Tickets are available via Quicket.co.za
Text: Editorial Desk
Pretstap vir Ouer Persone
Die Franschhoek Klub vir Ouer Persone (Franschhoek Elderly Club) het op Maandag, 2 September, die beste gebruik gemaak van die ongelooflike lenteweer. Hulle het ‘n pretstap onderneem vanaf die biblioteek in Groendal na die Hugenote Gedenkmuseum.
Die ywerige groep stappers was almal uitgeval in hul klub t-hemde en allerlei hoofbedekkings – van praktiese pette tot uitspattige nommers. Die klub erken graag die Stellenbosch
Burgemeestersfonds wat bydgedra het tot die koste van kospakkies vir die stappers.
Teks & Foto: Redaksie
Security Initiative Launches New Season Funding Drive
The Franschhoek Safety Initiative has helped our village retain its reputation as one of the safest and most desirable places to live, work and holiday in South Africa.
With the beginning of the new season, the entirely community funded initiative, is calling for repeat and new donors to extend its work through to September 2025.
Fundraising volunteer, Graeme Oliver said, “We are very thankful to the 250+ residents and businesses that donated last season. With their help we were able to:
Create a visible deterrent, placing security guards at strategic points in the village. You’ll have seen them in their distinctive red caps.
Connect them with SAPS, municipal law enforcement and private security so that together they can react quickly and proportionately Engage with welfare services and the FRANCO StreetKids Centre where children are involved.
The initiative’s dramatic success was highlighted by Franschhoek SAPS Station Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Roussouw: “The initiative has made a big impact, making it possible for us to be more focussed on serious incidents. The relationship between SAPS and external players is of utmost importance to address crime and create a safe environment for all.”
Pieter Pepler, of Pepler Alarms, said: “The Franschhoek Safety Initiative makes a huge difference. It was nice to see how groups of people left restaurants at night and enjoyed the walk back to guest houses without being harassed.”
How can you help? Current funding covered costs to September. If you haven’t yet donated, we invite you to do so now, extending the initiative’s impact through to 2025.
How to donate? Email fhoekpatrol@gmail.com stating your pledge and we’ll send you an invoice.
How much should I donate? We all have different means, so any donation is appreciated. Average donations are R3,500 (or R350 per month, direct debit).
Still not convinced? Here is a list of frequently asked questions, kindly answered by existing donors.
Q. Isn’t this the police’s job. I pay my rates, why should I pay more?
A. Barry Phillips, Co-Chair Franschhoek Rate Payers Association: “With SAPS’ focus on combating serious crime and with limited resources available to municipal law enforcement, they simply cannot provide the continuous, visible presence needed. This is the essential element in deterring aggressive begging, car guarding and tourist harassment. It is
the role and purpose of the Franschhoek Safety Initiative, which is why we should all donate.”
Q. Youth crime is a social welfare issue. Isn’t money better spent on helping youth escape poverty?
A. Raffaella Goedvolk, FRANCO Chairwoman –“FRANCO is dedicated to improving educational standards of underprivileged youth. We are committed to creating job opportunities within our community, understanding this can only be achieved in a secure and safe environment. FRANCO wholeheartedly supports the Franschhoek Safety Initiative, recognizing it as an essential measure, safeguarding our future and that of our younger generation’.
Q. I live outside the village. Why should I pay for a service that does not cover where I live?
A. Gerard Holden, Owner Holden Manz Wine Estate: “I live well outside the village. I donate because regardless of where we live, we all, including our friends and families, enjoy the magic of our High Street. We must all do what we can to support people who are trying to make a real difference, on behalf of all of us.
Q. Shouldn’t this be funded by High Street businesses, not residents?
A. Lodine Maske, Owner Fromage De France & La Cotte Inn Wine Sales: Businesses in every sector are stepping up. I have lived in Franschhoek for over 55 years and have been on the receiving end of petty crime more than once. I see it as a joint responsibility. We all love the village and benefit from keeping it safe. If you benefit – you should contribute.
Q. I voted for the Franschhoek Special Rating Area, which also covers security. Isn’t this an overlap?
A. Pat Jacobs, Franschhoek Special Rating Area Organiser: “The SRA business plan makes provision for guards in the main street, with costs being covered via the additional rate. The caveat, 61% of residential property owners within the defined area need to support and vote for it before we can apply to the Stellenbosch Municipality. The process can take 3 years for an SRA to be set up. We anticipate the need for the Franschhoek Safety Initiative for another 2 years whilst the SRA takes shape.”
Text: Franschhoek Safety Initiative
The FSI guards in their distinctive uniforms
OKAPI Spring Product Launch at Antonij Rupert Wines
Basking below the Groot Drakenstein Mountains, the beautiful Antonij Rupert Manor House stands proudly. It is also the home to the Okapi boutique, which had their Spring 2024 launch recently.
Driving down the ancient Poplar avenue towards the Cape Dutch Manor House, one is struck not just by the history and heritage, but also by the peace and tranquillity. Awaiting those present was L’Ormarins Brut Rose and delectable tapas. The gathering overlooked the splendid gardens, while Sales Manager Christine Vermaak, welcomed newly-arrived guests. She took those present through the philosophy and thought behind the range. Collaboration with other local craftsmen, sustainable sourcing, community development and SA design inspiration are all important to the brand. The Okapi flagship store opened in December 2023, heralding a proudly South African luxury leather and lifestyle brand. Okapi was
founded by Hanneli Rupert in 2008. The Okapi luxury range has pioneered using ethically and sustainably sourced SA materials and craftsmen. Local talent is fostered and developed to empower local communities.
The product range offers accessories, homeware, 100% Merino wool scarves and beanies. It also includes backgammon boards, bridge card holders of ostrich leather, purses, knives and clutches. The ‘pièce de résistance’ is the jewel-like glass beaded, feather-covered ostrich leather handbag named Nambi.
Okapi refers to the forest giraffe or ‘African unicorn’ - the rare and unique antelope. The mystique and enchantment of this animal
inspire the creation of this range of unique and alluring products.
Okapi resonates with the discerning world traveller with its philanthropic values. The unique products can also be bespoke - depending on the sustainable availability of materials. True to the spirit of collaboration in creating these pieces, this further ensures lasting appeal.
The Okapi boutique is a perfect place to choose a special occasion gift. While you’re there, a wine tasting in the grand tasting room of the manor house will be an engaging and wonderful experience.
Text: Rene de Reuck | Image: Okapi Okapi’s Nambi Clutch
La Motte Sauvignon Blanc 2024
While a trusted choice for those who enjoy a refreshing aperitif, the 2024 La Motte Sauvignon Blanc confirms that there is much more to this elegant white. Nuances of dried grass add depth to the aromas of gooseberry and lime, while the palate is supple and smooth despite the freshness of the acidity. Cellar door price: R99 T 021 876 8000 E info@la-motte.co.za
La Motte Artisanal Bakery & Garden Café’s
Panfried squid salad with lemon and smoked paprika
Ingredients: (serves 4-6 as a starter)
1
or similar), for serving
Method:
If your squid was frozen, defrost it completely and rinse under running water. Drain the water well and use kitchen paper to absorb any excess liquid - you want the squid as dry as possible before frying. Heat an iron skillet or wok to smoking point, then add the oil and about 1 cup of squid (at a time, if you’re working in batches) and some of the peppers. Fry, stirring, for about 1-2 minutes or until the squid is just cooked and lightly charred here and there. It will release some liquid - pour it off carefully before adding the next batch of squid. Transfer the cooked squid to a bowl on the side, and continue until you’ve
the featured
Send
grilled all of the squid and peppers. Turn off the heat and immediately add the butter to the still hot pan, allowing it to melt in the residual heat. Add the smoked paprika, lemon juice, and season generously with salt & pepper. When the butter is melted, add the cooked calamari back to the pan and stir to coat with the buttery sauce on all sides. Taste the squid and adjust with more salt or lemon juice if necessary. Serve at once, sprinkled with chopped parsley and some lemon wedges on the side (grilled lemon halves are also fantastic), with fresh bread to mop up the sauce and generous glasses of well-chilled 2024
La Motte Sauvignon Blanc.
T 021 876 8825
E bakery@la-motte.co.za
ANSWER THIS EASY QUESTION!
WhatisthenameofKatePinchuck’s comedyshow?
Booking site admin (listings, updates, bookings) | Guest liaison from booking stage to check-out | Cleaning & laundry
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| Maintenance arrangements & supervision
FROM THE FRANSCHHOEK
WINE VALLEY DESK
October in the Franschhoek Valley marks a delightful transition from winter's chill to the warmth of summer. As we stow away our winter coats and bask in the sunlit days, we’re preparing for a season full of vibrant festivities and much cause for a shared 'cheers'. This month it's all hands on deck as we prepare for the return of 'Franschhoek Creates.' This beloved event is a feast for the eyes and soul, celebrating the rich tapestry of immense local talent. From the 1st to 17th November, our town transforms into a haven of artistic brilliance with gallery exhibitions, interactive installations and creative workshops. It’s a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the dynamic world of art and to see the creativity of our community come alive.
2024 Tim Atkin Report
We're thrilled to announce that several of our wine estates scored an impressive 94 points or above in the South Africa 2024 Special Report by Tim Atkin MW! A huge congratulations to these outstanding wine estates for Rickety Bridge, Mullineux Leeu Passant, Boekenhoutskloof, Haute Cabrière, This marks the 12th report on Cape wine by Tim Atkin, Master of Wine and one of the world's leading critics, who meticulously tasted and evaluated 2,256 South African wines from 425 wineries to provide this year's insightful look into the state of our local wine industry.
WHERE WE’VE BEEN
On the first weekend of spring, we celebrated International Cap Classique Day in style with the launch of our Cap Classique Safari - a sparkling new highlight on Franschhoek’s event calendar! As the birthplace of South Africa’s Cap Classique wine route, Franschhoek Wine Valley proudly showcases 23 local producers, making it the country’s largest and most impressive destination for exceptional sparkling wines. Paired with world-class hospitality and breathtaking vineyard views, the weekend welcomed 100 delighted guests, all savouring the sunshine and the bubbles.
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO
Franschhoek Creates
1 - 17 November 2024
Our valley transforms into an arts haven, where art enthusiasts and patrons are invited to partake in the annual Franschhoek Creates calendar highlight.
Keep an eye out for details: www.franschhoek.org.za
Franschhoek Open Gardens 15 - 17 November 2024
The Franschhoek Open Gardens festival, a delightful showcase of diverse and enchanting gardens, is the perfect excuse to book a Franschhoek weekend getaway! Join us to immerse yourself in the beauty of these remarkable landscapes. www.franschhoekopengardens.co.za
Franschhoek Cap Classique & Champagne Festival
30 November & 1 December 2024
Mark your calendar for December’s ultimate highlight - the Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival, undoubtedly the perfect way to end the year on a high note with a sparkling celebration that's brimming with festivities and the usual Franschhoek flair. www.franschhoekcapclassique.co.za
Here’s to a brilliant October in the valley of dreams, filled with creative inspiration at every turn, and much cause for celebration!
La Cotte, one of the 10 gardens on display at this year’s Franschhoek Open Gardens
Tell us about your family history and connection with Franschhoek, and why you reside here?
I hail from the Hugo family who has been living here since 1688 on my mother’s side Paulina Hugo. Paulina was a medical doctor and grew up in the valley. My wife Christa is also a medical doctor and my daughter Antoinette, who went to school at Bridge House, graduated with a BAcc LLB at Stellenbosch and is now working in Cape Town. When was your first encounter with an Alfa Romeo? My 18th birthday surprise was a second-hand 1973 Alfa Romeo Berlina 2000. This Alfa, I then sold after three years, and then helped prepare the car for a concourse event. Thirty five years later the owner then sold the car back to me. “After all, you only have one first car in your life”. This was the beginning of an adventure and journey of racing,
Thoughts From My Kitchen
Chantal Lascaris
What’s Ruining Your Sleep?
We’ve all been there: lying in bed at 2 AM., wide-eyed, staring at the ceiling like it holds the answers to life’s biggest questions. But it doesn’t. Instead, you’re hit with a flood of random thoughts like, “Did I leave the oven on?” Next thing you know, it’s 4 AM, and you’ve solved none of life’s mysteries, but your eyeballs feel like they’ve been through a desert sandstorm.
Sleep is like that flaky friend who promises to show up at a party but always bails at the last minute. And when it does decide to arrive, it’s fashionably late— right around the time your alarm is set to go off.
One of the main culprits is eating dinner late. Although this might seem like a harmless habit, it turns out your stomach and your sleep schedule are arch enemies in the world of late-night digestion. When you eat late, your stomach is forced into overtime while the rest of your body is winding down. So instead of resting, your internal organs are forced into burning the midnight oil juggling carbs, proteins and that extra slice of cheese you didn’t really need. Then like a nosy neighbour, acid reflux is lurking nearby. When you lie down with a full stomach, gravity is no longer keeping everything where it should be. Late night eating messes with your circadian rhythm, slowing down your metabolic process. Your body lands up storing more of your food as fat, instead of burning it off. You could be lying there gaining weight instead of getting your beauty sleep. When you eat late, insulin levels spike and your body wakes up to deal with the incoming calories, tricking you into feeling more alert.
Sleep-friendly Dinner Ideas
If you’re planning a main meal that won’t sabotage your sleep, focus on foods rich in tryptophan, magnesium and complex carbs. A great option is fish, rich in omega 3s, with steamed spinach and quinoa. Salmon, tuna and the likes are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, which help
owning and building a wonderful business around classic cars.
Which studies did you pursue to ensure a future in the field you love?
When I completed studying Mechanical Engineering I joined the largest electro/ mechanical engineering company in South Africa. The experience and skills acquired prepared me for the technical and mechanical challenges of racing and maintaining classic cars. As competitiveness and rising to challenges is so part of my personality, I took part in offshore power boat racing as well. This sport is very dependent on teamwork and collaboration. Winning the SA Championship and the Trans Agulhas race, the toughest in the world, was a wonderful achievement! The power boat adventures took place from Hout Bay, Gordons Bay, Theewaterskloof and Cape Town. This was very much a family affair, with Antionette as a little girl going out high-speed boating. During this time, I formed authentic friendships and made enduring personal contacts, which are still part of my business and personal network.
How has your classic car interest influenced and enriched your life?
My business Bugaloo Car Gallery, was founded in 2004, which gave me the springboard to organize and arrange corporate events, such as teambuilding and organisational development training. The business caters to four categories of clients: the sentimental person, who possibly inherited a
regulate serotonin levels, improving sleep. Spinach is a magnesium powerhouse, relaxing your muscles and nervous system, while quinoa provides a steady release of energy without spiking blood sugar.
It’s a good idea to include foods that help produce melatonin, your body’s natural sleep hormone. Think nuts, cherries, fish, rice, milk and oats. I guess that’s where the old adage of drinking a glass of milk before bed comes from.
Here’s a recipe from my All Sorts of Healthy Dishes book: Salmon Provencal, a good option to ensure you’re not tossing and turning in the wee hours of the morning.
SALMON WITH VEGETABLES PROVENÇAL
Ingredients
8 baby carrots, with their tops; 6 Tbsp olive oil; 4 radishes, quartered; 24 extra fine green beans; 1 red pepper, sliced into strips; ½ onion, finely chopped; ¾ tsp minced garlic; 8 rosa tomatoes, halved; 400500g salmon fillets; salt and pepper to taste; 12 baby potatoes or 3 – 4 sweet potatoes
Lemon Sauce:
½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from ± 2 lemons, retain the lemons); 2 egg yolks; 3 Tbsp water; 2 Tbsp chopped fresh dill; Salt; 2 Tbsp Greek yoghurt
Method
Preheat the oven to 190°C. Coat the carrots in 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, transfer into an ovenproof dish and roast for about 5 minutes.
Add the radishes, green beans, red pepper, onion and garlic to the carrots, along with another 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well to ensure that all the vegetables are coated with the oil and garlic. Add the juiced lemons (for extra flavour, but remove before serving). Roast for 10 minutes, then
car; the enthusiast, who knows cars and wants to drive them frequently; the successful person in life, who wants to savour and discreetly own a classic car; and the investor who makes a rational decision in keeping and collecting cars. Please describe your adventure so far?
This has been an adventure and a journey which has been evolving over the past 40 years. The most rewarding aspect is the privilege of living in a wonderful place and able to enjoy the natural and cultural riches of Franschhoek. Here I am able to go jogging in the splendour of the valley and tend to Shiraz and Chardonnay vines on my doorstep. It would be accurate to describe my living here as enjoying the simple joys of life and nature. Finding beauty in everyday moments and cherishing the company of family, loved ones and friends. This encapsulates “La Dolce Vita”. What is your vision for the future? I want the future to be an all-inclusive community
endeavor; to improve the quality of all aspects of everyone’s lives in the valley. My vision would be for Franschhoek to continue to be a desired destination for global travelers’ guests, and residents. We should ensure all developments to be of high value in all areas and aspects of the community. The growth and changes must be sustainable, within an agriculturally rich environment. This would allow everybody to experience the good life.
add the tomatoes and roast for another 10 minutes.
Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
Heat a non-stick pan until hot, add the fillets and cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked but still pink in the middle. Set aside and keep warm.
For the sauce, pour the lemon juice into a saucepan, add the egg yolks and whisk. Add the water and continue whisking over a low heat until the mixture starts to thicken but remove from heat if the eggs begin to ‘scramble’.
Add the dill and season with salt. Add the yoghurt and whisk well. Remove from the heat once the sauce is heated through and thickened. Cook the baby potatoes in boiling water until done.
To serve, arrange the mixed vegetables on each plate, place a salmon fillet on top and the potatoes to the side. Serve the lemon sauce on the side, garnish as desired and serve immediately.
BOOKNOW
SATURDAY & SUNDAY 5 - 6 OCTOBER 2024
Tickets available o n Webtickets Book now: www.fccf.co.za +27 (0)82 896 6678
with Theo Lötter, CEO of Bugaloo Car Gallery and the Franschhoek Classic Car Festival.
Theo Lötter with his wife and daughter
Tatler Motoring
MICHELE LUPINI
Shake, Rock & Roll – It’s The Ford Ranger Tremor!
More affordable XLT-based Ranger Tremor brings flagship class
Based on the XLT, this more affordable Tremor brings a little flagship Wildtrak X class and off-road capability to the Ford Ranger range. Well, if you can call a point under a bar affordable, then ja well no fine. Still, the Ford Ranger Tremor Double Cab packs the same 154 kW 500 Nm 2-litre Bi-Turbo diesel, full-time four-wheel drive and even the innovative Trail Turn Assist manoeuvrability of its premium Wildtrak X sibling.
Tremor also steals its position-sensitive Bilstein dampers from Wildtrak X to deliver 24 mm more ground clearance with a 30mm wider track. Add Ranger’s Normal, Eco, Tow & Haul, Slippery, Mud & Rut, Sand and Rock Crawl Drive Modes. A spray-in bedliner invites any load into a bay that swallows a Euro pallet. Ranger’s Cargo Management System controls smaller items. Side steps ease bay access, the tailgate doubles as a work bench and there’s even a 12-volt socket in the bak.
Sexy Spec Sets Ranger Tremor Apart
Set apart by a black Wildtrak X honeycomb grille between those aggro C-headlights with grey detailing dotted around the car, our headline
Raptor Conquer Grey Tremor wore General Grabber AT3 265/70 R17 all-terrain boots. On machine-faced black alloys. Add Tremor badges to shake you and black Wildtrak X and Raptor-like Ford Ovals on the grille and tailgate to stir you. Plus a go-anywhere steel bash plate, underbody protection, two front tow hooks, cast aluminium side steps, and a longtube sports bar.
Step aboard to grey-stitched water-resistant black vinyl clad six-way adjusting front seats with orange Tremor trim. And practical, hose-to-clean vinyl carpeting. The rest is your regular flexible, modern Ranger cabin fare with crisp digital dials and infotainment. Tremor replaces the regular 10-inch XLT screen with a larger 12-inch version. And its Wildtrak X derived off-road SYNC Screen and 360-degree camera. With wireless charging, CarPlay, Auto, Bluetooth and that kitchen sink. In a quite splendid space.
Questionable quality for a million bucks
On paper, that is. Build quality has improved as production ramped up. But some of it remains questionable in a million-buck motor. The cheap and nasty centre console rotary controller, overthought, complex and tricky to use gear lever, and squeeze to open door handles are cheesy, disappointing. But we enjoy Ranger’s extensive driver assist tech. It’s subtle to start with. Kill it with a tap on the steering button if you don’t want it meddling.
The infotainment seems cool if you just sit in your parked Ranger and use it. God forbid you try work it while driving. That’s another challenge altogether! It takes great driver concentration to delve through reams of cyber windows to get anything to happen. Look, Ford is not alone in making its cars impossible to get on with. It’s an industrywide scourge. Happily Euro NCAP concurs with us on this. All cars with idiot interfaces will soon lose safety stars. About time, too. Tremor is still a good old XLT For the rest, this Tremor is still a good old Ranger XLT. Which is a good thing. While not all quite a bed of roses, we’ve always rated the
SOLAR CHALLENGE AT FMM
As part of FMM’s commitment to sustainable energy and innovation, on September 20th, L’Ormarins hosted a visit of Africa’s premier solar car event, the 16th Sasol Solar Challenge (SSC). Sasol is committed to advancing renewable energy solutions, and the event is a blend of innovation, competition, and sustainability. With a striking new route, record-breaking female participation, and participation from the world’s leading solar car teams, the SSC solidified its place among the top solar events globally.
A brand-new route took competitors on an epic journey from Secunda, Mpumalanga, to Cape Town. This eight-day challenge tested the limits of solar technology against some of South Africa’s most challenging and beautiful terrains. This year’s SSC featured 14 top-tier local and international teams, including the reigning champions and top contenders from the World Solar Challenge. The participation of these world-class competitors reaffirms the SSC’s status as a key player on the global
stage, drawing international attention and raising the stakes for all involved.
Beyond the main competition, the SSC continues to inspire future generations through its dynamic Schools Programme. This initiative brings the excitement of the SSC to young learners, fostering a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) through interactive activities and educational workshops.
As part of the Sasol Solar Challenge’s ‘pit stop’ at FMM, there were displays by the event’s organisers and sponsors. Tables of solar powered models were available for the many groups of visiting schoolchildren to play with to help understand the principles of solar energy. In addition, BMW and Toyota hydrogen fuel cell cars were on display and demonstrated to visitors as part of the Sasol event’s sustainable energy education drive.
For further info, logon to the 2024 Sasol Solar Challenge’s official website: https:// www.solarchallenge.org.za/
A Local Geological Journey with Nick Norman
While you may know something of the geological forms seen in the Franschhoek Valley, it is no simple task to piece together these features into a story of the valley’s geological history. Local geologist and published author, Nick Norman, speaks and writes accessibly about the otherwise remote world of rocks. Born in Kwa-Zulu Natal where he completed his M.Sc in Geology, Nick has explored far and wide in search of the stories embedded in rocks. After exploring South American and Southern African geological features, Nick settled in Franschhoek in 1981 where he has since continued to write and explore the world of rocks.
Nick tells the fascinating story of how the Franschhoek Valley has taken on its present form after hundreds of millions of years and is still changing. You may know that the Franschhoek Mountains are formed from sandstone, a kind of sedimentary rock, and form part of the Cape Fold Mountains. Nick emphasises that these mountains, despite forming part of the Cape Fold Mountains, do not owe their current form to the process of folding (the convergence of plate tectonics that heaves vast quantities of the Earth’s material upward, forming mountains). Rather, our Franschhoek Mountains and valley were formed from an extremely slow process of erosion, mainly by water.
XLT as the pick of the Ranger bunch. Never mind, we’ve road tested bakkies for over a quarter century now. Which is basically since such a contraption was even a thing. In that time, we’ve learned that a double cab’s 0-100 time is a vital statistic. Now, this two-litre biturbo Ford not only beat our fourcylinder diesel double cab road test record. It pulverised it.
It doesn’t end on the drag strip. Ranger certainly looks the part. Even more so in this Tremor getup. And it drives very well too. Among the best of the bakkies. Even better now with those Bilstein dampers. The cab is in harmony with the chassis. And while it is set up stiff, it’s not that harsh. So ten out of ten to Ford in that department. Ranger Tremor is safe, planted and satisfying to drive.
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).
OK, all that Tremor kit certainly propels its price way up the list. But it also adds sophistication. Pleasing, comfortable and quiet, the Tremor is now even better-damped and positive on, and off the road. It brings SUV-like culture to the bakkie world. Add Ford’s extensive backup, a great warranty and add-on options up to 200,000 km, and this Ranger stacks up to a most compelling option.
Tremor kit certainly is compelling
Sure, there are still quality issues and some silly interface challenges to deal with. But the quickest four-pot turbodiesel double cab we have ever tested now sporting some cool and trick Tremor kit certainly is compelling enough to even overlook all
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
Lupini
Follow Michele Lupini’s motoring adventures on https://theauto.page
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.
OCTOBER NEWS
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: R90 adults, R70 pensioners and motor club members
FMM AT FRANSCHHOEK CLASSIC CAR FESTIVAL
In support of the Franschhoek Classic Car Festival that will take place on October 5-6, the Cape Alfa Romeo Club will put on a display of the marque’s vehicles at FMM. On the 6th, there will be a display of 40 of the finest cars at the Huguenot Monument, which will include some of the museum’s collection. Tickets to the FCCF include entry to the museum and can be purchased at https://www.fccf.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. If this story piqued your interest, Nick’s books can be purchased or ordered from your local book vendor. His publications include Going to Ground, Box of Rocks, Geology Off the Beaten Track, The Extraordinary World of Diamonds, and Geological Journeys. For more information about Nick, you can visit his website: https://www.nicknormanbook.com/.
(with membership ID), R50 children (ages 3-12). Only electronic payments are accepted. The famed FMM Pitstop Deli is open throughout the visiting hours. For booking tickets and any other information as well as signing on for a free monthly newsletter, logon to www.fmm. co.za or phone 021 874 9000 or e-mail fmm@fmm.co.za
Text: Leila Shirley | Image: Nick Norman
Nick Norman with the Wemmershoek Mountains in the background.
Gardening in May
I’ve often mused in the past on how May is one of the most unpredictable months of the year. Every farmer in the winter rainfall area will tell stories of the years they waited for the rain to sow their crops, with the end of May being the ultimate deadline. In dry years the joke is that farmers plant on the 50th of May. This year things seem different. We were blessed with abundant early rains, and winter quickly pushed a short autumn out of the way.
My soil is too waterlogged to work already – a pity because I had big plans to prepare new sections for vegetable planting in spring. I will have to go no-till this season and will experiment with sowing a green manure crop in narrow drills in the soil. Adding some radish and other root crops should loosen the soil enough to make up for the lack of deep cultivation. This green manure sowing must be done before the end of the month to ensure enough biomass to dig into the soil in spring. Finding a decent green manure seed mix in small quantities might be difficult and expensive for the home gardener. I’ve successfully used a mix of my expired vegetable and flower seeds combined with a garden bird seed blend from the pet food section. This gives a good variety of grains and green material. Adding some peas to the mix will trap nitrogen in the soil for the next season.
With winter not letting go of her claws all hope is on October to bring some spring weather. This truly is the fairest month of them all, and this year will not disappoint. Living in a winter rainfall area makes the gardener aware of the resilience of the specially adapted species that makes the Cape floral kingdom world renowned for its species diversity. The ability of the plants to adapt to climates far from their natural habitat have made many of our Fynbos plants famous around the world. The gardener should not let the opportunity pass to get out in nature to see the spring splendour unfold. October is a month filled with inspiration for the creative gardener.
It is also the month when you realise how behind you are with your garden tasks, and this year might be worse with the cold weather keeping you inside. I have often wished for another month in between September and October with the quick transition between the seasons catching me unawares. This year I have been better prepared, making full use of the warmth of my greenhouse to germinate tomatoes, green peppers, squashes and other summer vegetables that have already been planted out in the garden. Succession plantings have been sown in seed trays and the green beans and sweet corn I sowed out in the cold are showing their first shoots. I also have a decent compost heap for the first time in years. Truly a growing season to look forward to. It is not only the food garden that needs attention though and there will be plenty catch up to do in the main garden. Your roses should be covered in new growth and the first buds will be showing. Pinching off the tips and removing every third bud will prolong your flowering season and extend the early summer flush well into December. Watch out for aphids and other insects and spray reactively. With the varying weather it is best to do preventative spraying against fungal attack, with black spot being a big threat this year. Alternating between a copper and sulphurbased spray will keep rust and mildew under control. Adding a foliar feed to every spray act as an insurance policy against micronutrient deficiencies. Keep up with your regular feeding program. A high potassium fertiliser should be used on roses and other flowering plants. The entire garden can do
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.
Rainfall Figures
with another feed, look for a balanced fertiliser to use on trees and shrubs. The lawn will thank you for applying some calcitic lime on top of that to counter the acidifying effect of the waterlogged winter months. Keep the lawnmower setting low to stimulate the grass for lush summer growth.
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.
If you haven’t tested your irrigation system yet you better do that now. It is amazing how many nozzles get blocked by insects and other critters during winter. You might also get a few surprises with pipes that were punctured during your spring plantings. Storm damaged trees and shrubs will need your attention; get a professional in if the task seems too daunting.
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.
October is still a good month to plant new shrubs and trees The nurseries are stocked with all sorts of temptations. Buying new plants is one of the great joys of gardening. There are some exciting new indigenous plants available; go visit your local garden centre to have a look. Modern hybrid Proteas and pincushions are easy to grow and worth a try. Use the inspiration you gathered from your nature walks when selecting plants. We have some amazing indigenous annuals and perennial groundcovers that can brighten up your summer garden. Many of these can be grown from seed and will also self-seed, promising joy for seasons to come.
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.
We are still experiencing a seasonal famine in the food garden. My first asparagus shoots were eaten by the chickens, and I planted the peas too late, so very little but greens to cook from my garden. At least the chickens and ducks are doing their bit, and we will soon have to preserve some of the expected glut. Pickled eggs make a great cocktail snack while looking impressive on the pantry shelf. Happy gardening.
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
Ansche’s People
The Heart Behind the Counter:
Marcha Boonzaaier
Step into Franschhoek Pharmacy and you’ll likely be greeted with a warm smile and a genuine, heartfelt conversation from Marcha Boonzaaier. For the past 20 years, Marcha has been a beloved presence in the pharmacy; known for her kindness, empathy and dedication to helping her community.
Born and raised in Franschhoek, Marcha’s roots run deep. Her family has been part of the town for generations. Raised by her grandparents in Groendal, she fondly recalls stories about the old Franschhoek. “Franschhoek is home,” she says, and her connection to the community has only strengthened over time.
Marcha’s journey to becoming a pharmacist assistant began serendipitously. After attending Groendal Primary and Franschhoek High School, she pursued cost and management accounting at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. She paid her way through school by working weekends at Haute Cabrière Cellar Restaurant, along with a certain newspaper editor... There, she learned valuable soft skills, such as respect for her colleagues and engaging with people – skills that would prove crucial in her later career.
It was during her time as a student that Marcha’s future in pharmacy began to take shape. She caught the attention of Shawn, the thenmanager, while waiting for the bus in front of the pharmacy. Impressed by her friendly demeanour, he offered her a weekend job at the pharmacy. Marcha accepted, and though her knowledge of medication was limited, she embraced the administrative side of the business. Over time, her curiosity about pharmaceuticals grew, and Shawn, recognizing her potential, offered to help fund her studies to become a pharmacist assistant.
Balancing work and studies, Marcha began her journey into the pharmaceutical field, commuting to Cape Town twice a week to complete her diploma. Her background in accounting blended seamlessly with the new skills she was developing. Over the years, Marcha witnessed the pharmacy’s evolutionfrom its original location (now Woolworths Food) to
WE KNOW YOU CARE, WE KNOW YOU WANT TO HELP TO CHILDREN WHO BEG ON FRANSCHHOEK STREETS DO NOT GIVE MONEY OR DIRECT SUPPORT BUT PLEASE...
the BP garage’s tuck shop, and finally to its current home where Gerrit, the current manager, took over. Through it all, she remained a constant, adapting alongside the business. “The work feels like family,” Marcha reflects, crediting the strong bonds among her colleagues for helping them navigate the highs and lows of life together.
For Marcha, the most rewarding part of her job is helping others and knowing that we all are human beings and can be vulnerable with people we trust. She has a deep empathy for her clients, many of whom cannot always afford their medication.
“Rather than turning someone away, I try to help in any way I can, even if it’s just something small,” she says. Her compassion and willingness to go the extra mile have earned her the loyalty of many customers, some of whom have been with her since the pharmacy’s early days.
Marcha’s connection with her clients extends beyond prescriptions and medicine. In her own times of need, particularly after the passing of her mother, the community she has served for two decades rallied around her, offering support and comfort. “They were there for me, and that’s something I will never forget,” she shares.
Looking to the future, Marcha is filled with optimism about Franschhoek’s growth and development. Her motivation to keep going comes from knowing she can make a difference, even just offering a word of encouragement or a willing ear. “Life is challenging, but sometimes, putting a smile on someone’s face is the simplest way to make a change,” she says.
To Marcha Boonzaaier and the team at Franschhoek
Pharmacy - thank you for your dedication and compassion, and for always welcoming us with warmth and care.
No matter how well-meaning, direct support keeps our children on the street: Giving money or support of any kind directly to children on the street might seem harmless, or helpful, to members of the public, tourists, and businesses. The truth is that it means keeping them out of school, on the streets, and locked in the hands of those exploiting them.
Unfortunately, once a child settles onto the street and allows the street to become their survival paradigm, they become locked into street life and resistant to change
The money they get from begging: No program, organization, centre, or school can compete for the child's attention when they can earn over R50 a day in our smaller provincial towns, never mind the odd foreign currency equivalent of R200. This money is not used for food or schooling needs but goes directly into substance abuse, or is handed over to support their guardians' substance abuse.
Food from restaurants and locals: Many restaurants, small businesses, and individuals feel sorry for the children, so give them food and even small jobs for money. This helps sustain the children on the street, validating their impression that life on the streets is better and
keeping them out of school and out of the programs set up to look after them.
Public support: Many well-meaning members of the public give the children shoes, clothes, and food items. Most of this is sold or traded and is used not only to sustain them on the street, and pay for drugs but also to encourage them to remain on the street. Many people want to help but often don’t know how to give responsibly. By donating to the FRANCO StreetKids Centre, you can make a significant impact on our children’s future. We offer daily hot meals, tutoring, mentoring, hygiene facilities, trauma counseling, sports, karate, yoga, and skills programs. Most importantly, we provide LOVE and RESPECT for their innocence.
FRANCO Focus
BRUCE ACKERMAN
It takes a village to raise a child
If you haven’t visited the FRANCO office yet, it’s a small room at 5 Mark Street in Groendal that bursts with character. It’s filled with everything imaginable – from toys to school shoes, donated citrus crates, clothes for our yard sale, stationery, sanitary pads and avocado seeds carefully nurtured by our green-fingered Manager. You name it – you can find just about anything in there.
Recently though, a new category of items started appearing: boys’ clothes in sizes 10 to 15, boys’ socks, boxer pants, roll-ons and toothbrushes. Almost before we could blink, our most recent community programme the “FRANCO StreetKids Centre” is already 5 months old!
FRANCO pays close attention to social changes in our community. In 2023 we started noticing an alarming number of children dropping out of school and roaming the streets of both Franschhoek village and Groendal. Recognizing the urgency of addressing this issue, we undertook three months of intensive research in cooperation with various community stakeholders and relevant authorities. Suddenly, the meaning of the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” became very clear. Our deepest gratitude goes to everyone who supported us and believed in this project from the start, including Franschhoek Wine Valley, the FHRPA, Franschhoek safety stakeholders (from SAPS and private security companies to Stellenbosch Protection Services and the Franschhoek Safety Initiative), Jannie Mouton Foundation, PicknPay, Mont Rochelle, La Cotte Farm, PNA, Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve, Humanitas Counselling, ACVV, Franschhoek Tatler, Franschhoek Conservancy, Halo Yoga Studio, Andries Douglas Dojo, Marianne Conradie Tutoring, Franschhoek Valley Community Sport Centre, NEMISA, Groendal Clinic, SPCA and all members of the public who support us.
On 8 April 2024, the FRANCO StreetKids Centre opened with a programme aimed to address the needs of street children in our communities. The programme’s primary goal is to reunite children with their families and reintegrate them into mainstream education whenever possible. If the educational distance gap is too significant, the programme aims to provide these children with basic literacy and skills that can help them build successful lives as young adults, steering them away from the dangers of the streets.
The programme operates 7 days a week and 365 days a year.
HOW: FRANCO is renting premises where the kids are followed weekly by professionals such as psychologists and counsellors, social auxiliary
Hospice News
Colleen Douglas
On behalf of everyone at Franschhoek Hospice, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who contributed to the recent Reuben Riffel Golf Day fundraiser held at Pearl Valley Golf Estate on 12 September. Your incredible generosity, both in sponsorship and support, made the event a tremendous success.
We would like to acknowledge the following: Terbodore Coffee Roasters, Carrol Boyes, Three Streams Smoke House, Ngwenya, Two In A Bush, The Franschhoek Beer Company, Frank’s Corner, La Motte Wine Farm, Leopard’s Leap, Stellenzicht, Sedgars Home, Boekenhoutskloof, Chamonix, Franschhoek Pass Winery, Franschhoek Hair and Beauty, Masquerade, Franschhoek Skin Care Clinic, Franschhoek Cellar, Wildeberg Wines, The Earth Beneath Our Feet, Haute Cabrière, Holden Manz, Mont Rochelle Hotel and Vineyards, Graham Beck, Stony Brook Vineyards, La Bri Franschhoek 1694, Anthonij Rupert Wines, Vrede en Lust, Legend Housewares, Kitchen Aid, Build Africa Energy, Banhoek Chilli Oil, KWV, Pringle, Reuben Riffel, Wings Group, Country Kitchen, Graeme Oliver, Sea Storm, Psycho Bunny, Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty and Three Sons Lamb Company, The funds raised will go a long way in helping us to continue providing compassionate care and support to those in need.
A very special ‘Thank You’ goes to Marcel, Reuben and Maryke for their input and support towards the event.
Further thanks go to the following staff and volunteers for their time and patience with me: Helen, Lyn, Carrie, John,
workers, teachers and sports professionals supervised by a centre manager and a centre matron. The children get a healthy snack on arrival and a hot meal before they depart (kindly sponsored by PicknPay), they have access to ablution facilities and clean clothes and can play outdoor sports in nice weather or watch educational programmes indoors in bad weather. The children are given a chance to be children again in a space where they are loved, listened to, and respected.
WHO: Currently the Centre welcomes 10 regular children, who attend voluntarily, showing more interest in the programme’s activities and people rather than in roaming the streets. They are all boys between the ages of 11 and 15 who were all out of school. The biggest learning distance gap is 4 years. The difference a few months of love and individual attention has made in these children’s lives is a testament to the critical importance of a programme like this in our community. Three of our regular attendees have successfully been reregistered in mainstream education and they are doing their best to succeed, under their extremely challenging circumstances.
All of us – residents and visitors alike – should reflect on the value of our children’s lives. They are the innocent victims of repeated societal failures and cannot be blamed for finding alternative sources of happiness in their miserably neglected existences.
FRANCO’s StreetKids Centre provides them with some real comfort and stability in their lives, food, care and individual attention, but mostly love – a language they are still trying to learn. It is shocking to witness children younger than 14 already under the influence of highly toxic drugs, often financed by misguided albeit well-intentioned donations from both locals and visitors.
Giving money or food to street children is only encouraging bad habits, reinforcing the message that life on the streets is a better way and supporting their substance abuse and often that of their elder siblings or guardians. This is even more so when they are gifted in foreign hard currency. The amounts are so disproportionate for a vulnerable child that they can be assaulted or even killed for it.
Children begging on the streets must be discouraged and should be reported to our Franschhoek Security Initiative guards – identifiable by their vests and red caps. They will inform our volunteers who will start encouraging them to participate in our programme, with a view to their re-integration into society and return to school. Alternatively, please feel free to call FRANCO at 060 374 0353. Manager Tzilka will gladly explain what we do to help a child in need.
We are always looking for skilled volunteers who are willing to assist, especially during weekends and school holidays. Should you be interested please contact our manager Tzilka on 060 374 0353 and ask for a volunteer form.
Please support the FRANCO StreetKids Centre and give our children a place to grow, create and dream rather than being exposed to the dangers on the streets.
Elrid, Liz, Emma, Unati, Trish,
Ann, Renee, Brenda, Natasha,
Pearl and Marelize. Thank you also to Maans, our auctioneer, for the evening for his enthusiasm and energy helping us raise additional funds. We are truly humbled by the community’s unwavering commitment and we look forward to your ongoing partnership in making a difference. Thank you again for your kindness and generosity.
The longest drive winner, Rudi Marx, was rewarded with a Kitchen Aid Mixer for his effort. With him are Reuben Riffel and Pearl Groenewald.
Franschhoek Leeskring
Franschhoek Leeskring
SUSAN MÖLLER
Ons was bevoorreg om op 17 Augustus die bekendstelling van ‘Draaie, Swaaie en Afdraaipaaie’ by te woon by Wordsworth Franschhoek. Ons eie lid, Elkarien Fourie, is in hierdie boek opgeneem met een van haar interessante afdraaipad ervarings. In October, Charlotte van Zyl will discuss ‘Pride and Prejudice’.
By die volgende byeenkoms van die Franschhoek
Leeskring, wat op 7 Julie plaasvind, bespreek Danie du Toit Francois Smith se “Die getuienis”. Die byeenkoms word gehou in die NG Kerksaal. Lede en besoekers geniet vooraf n koffie koffie/tee met verrigtinge wat om 15h00 begin.
Navrae: 0729325393
Ons November boekbespreking is baie opwindend, want nie alleen neem Ingrid Maritz leiding nie, maar die skrywer van ‘Vin’, Lien Botha, sal haar boek self bespreek.
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.
If you understand Afrikaans, you are welcome to join us. Don’t be shy!
Navrae: 084 900 9060
COLLEEN DOUGLAS
Celebrating Bastille?
“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.
Franschhoek Open Gardens Festival 2024
Franschhoek Hospice will be selling the following items on the 16th and 17th July at the village market and main road: Berets, Red, Royal and Navy – R 50 each, Pancakes – R10 each and freshly-baked Croissants filled with smoke salmon/trout and cream cheese – R50 – available on the veranda of the town hall.
The dates for this year’s Open Garden Festival are 15 – 17 November.
Please diarise the following dates:
As always during early spring, the gardeners amongst us look forward to warmer days. The Franschhoek Open Gardens committee are grateful to the generous garden owners who are willing to share their beautiful private gardens with us and acknowledge the dedication that makes this possible.
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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.
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.
This year we are delighted to be introducing a new garden that has never been on show before, several gardens that haven’t been on show for two years or more as well as a chance to visit some old favourites. These will include both village gardens and large estate gardens, giving us a wide spectrum of interests which is a special feature of the Franschhoek Open Gardens Festival.
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
Again, this year we will have additional interests in the gardens – olive oil tasting, wine tasting, etc.
Editor’s Letter
Siegfried Schäfer
Dear Readers,
A report titled ‘A Guide to Urban Swimming in Europe’ recently caught my attention. It explores the opportunities for and safety of waterfront areas in a number of European Cities. The issue was, of course, in the news with the recent Paris Olympics when several swimming events planned for the Seine had to be postponed due to unsafe pollution levels.
Copenhagen is apparently considered the Holy Grail for urban swimmers. Residents consider their harbour a ‘blue park’ and urban swimming is not only safe, but encouraged by the city fathers. Their clean-up efforts started in the 1990s and the first new public bathing areas opened in the early 2000s after they were closed in the 1950s due to pollution.
to make bathing possible. As temperatures rise in the city centre, the networking of blue-green infrastructure and access to water for cooling on hot days is becoming increasingly important.”
This got me to thinking about the water quality of urban waters in Franschhoek. My general conclusion is that once they’ve passed through a few farms with human habitation – let alone through an informal settlement – I wouldn’t set foot in them.
Take the Patrysfontein Reservoir next to Agrimark. The stream that feeds it flows through what used to be Franschhoek’s illegal rubbish dump. That may have been cleaned out when L’Hermitage Hotel was developed, but I’m not taking any chances... I remember a few years ago there was some kind of poisonous algae outbreak in the reservoir. I can’t remember what it was, but it sounded like something I associate with biological weapons, so now I even hose down my dog after she swims there…
Swimming is also allowed in most of Amsterdam’s waterways where, like in Copenhagen, infrastructure such as floating piers and ladders has been installed for swimmers. While the Thames is much cleaner than it was it is still far from a swimmers paradise with little infrastructure and swimming only allowed upstream of Putney. As in Paris, investment in upgrading outdated sewer systems should help improve the situation. Swimming is generally allowed in Berlin’s many lakes and efforts are underway to open up the Spreekanal in the city core for swimmers.
While it’s nice to be able to swim in city waters, there are bigger issues at play. In the words of a Berlin official: “The vision is to turn the Spreekanal into an urban ecological lifeline, making its banks more attractive and improving the water quality
Karate Tournament Success
An unmissable event will be a talk by Leon Kluge who was part of the team that won the best exhibit at the Chelsea Flower Show this year. On Saturday, 16 November at La Cotte Farm, he will be giving us an insight into his unique journey and experiences at the show. Tickets for this show will be on sale on Webtickets.
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.
Carol Thorns, “That Girl in a Bubble,” will enchant us with a musical recital on her cello in the garden at La Cotte on Sunday, 17 November. Both events will be ‘must attend’ experiences. For more information on all these and other events taking place in the gardens please go to our website www.franschhoekopengardens.co.za.
This year in addition to the ten gardens that will be on show we will be including the garden of
FLTR: Franschhoek Health Club Manager Johan Viljoen, Champion and gold
Jayne Wunder and National Coach Sensei Chris Ensil.
Artemis, a haven of indigenous splendor and the home of local gardener and artist Andrea Desmond Smith who sadly passed away in February this year. The garden is open as a special tribute to Andrea on the Saturday and Sunday of the Open Gardens Show and we hope that you will all visit it in memory of this remarkable lady.
Finally our sincere thanks go out to all the garden owners, the different sponsors of the event over the weekend, the ongoing support of the Lions Ladies and to the many volunteer garden sitters who contribute to this community driven event. Save the date!
Leerder se Gedig Gekeur vir Nasionale Bundel
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.
Other Franschhoek students also achieved first,
Image: Netflix
Emma van der Waal, ‘n Graad 12 leerder aan Bridge House School se gedig ‘Lasdraer’ is gekeur om in ‘n nasionale bundel te verskyn. Die kompetisie was oop vir persone van enige ouderdom en daar was meer as ‘n duisend inskrywings. Baie geluk met hierdie uitsonderlike prestasie, Emma!
‘Lasdraer’ Newels waak ek in stoffelose donse van ’n sagte hand, Tussen die plooie van ’n palm met eteriese verstand, Op sy pols is daar ‘n web van almagtige are, Wat my omhels met die warmte van geestelike genade.
‘Hoekom dra jy die kruis van ‘n dooie se berou?’: Ek is ‘n kantlyn treurende wat dobbel met ‘wat sou’, Om ‘n lasdraer te wees gee my tog ‘n verskoning, Om aan te hou met my swart skaapse vertoning.
‘En as jy minder tyd gehad het, wat sou jy doen?’: Ek sou gaan smeek by Kronos se skimagtige skoen, Om die hande van my horlosie se oneindige plig, Met net ‘n paar ure hier en daar te onstig.
‘Maar wat as jy meer tyd gehad het?’: Dan het ek vir Kees voorgegaan in gebed, Om te vra of hy my smeek asseblief sal verdra, Om net ‘n paar dae langer aan die saak by te dra.
‘So of dit nou minder of meer was,
Het jy jou tyd gebruik tot die laaste grantjie as.
So hoor my nou, my kind: Sit neer die seer, En laat die dood rus in eer,’
‘Soen dan
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.” For more information on karate in Franschhoek contact Sensei Chris on 083 505 0808.
Text: Editorial Desk | Images: Supplied
The Stiebeuel River practically needs a scale of its own to chart its pollution levels. Never mind the tonnes of litter and household refuse that is thrown into it, the bacteria and drug levels in it are record-breaking in the worst possible way. So definitely no swimming there either! In fact, I’d say the safest way to deal with the Stiebeuel –assuming the habits of those living near it won’t change – is to channel the whole thing into the sewerage system just before it reaches the R45. The reality of few safe spots to swim or cool off – especially if you’re poor – cannot be ignored though. It has already led to several drownings in the Berg River and other dams. With temperatures forever climbing I’m certainly in favour of the construction of a public pool in Groendal. It will not only save lives, but also make our ever-warmer future just a bit more tolerable. Until next month!
Bookings - 16 September 2024 | Artwork - 17 September 2024 | Editorial - 17 September 2024
Karate Queen
Bridge House student Mila Roscherr represented the Western Province team at the South African Goju Kai Championship at the University of the Free State on the weekend of 17&18 August 2024.
Based on her individual performance at the 2023 European Championships, where she won gold, Mila had already qualified for selection for the South African team that will be competing in the World Championship in Japan in 2025. Mila travelled to Bloemfontein to compete in two team events. She brought home a gold medal for Bunkai and Bronze for Team Kata.
Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Bridge House School
Crafting the Stage
Several Bridge House students’ artworks were recently chosen as part of the set design for a local television production – ‘Kelders van
Destin Bürgin.
medalist
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.
Elkarien Fourie saam met Wordsworth Franschhoek se bestuurder Pieter Naudé.
Sculptures abound in the Artemis garden
Geheime’ (Cellars of Secrets).
In return, the student artists received the opportunity to visit the ‘Kelders van Geheime’ production set, rub shoulders with great
In the photo are (Back row FLTR): Vashti Prinsloo, Geon Nel, Veronique Jephtas, Riana Alfreds, Rushney Ferguson, Sandra Prinsloo and Duane Williams. (Front row FLTR): Bridge House students Kiara Patel and Eliza Koning-Smith.
die voorkop van vergifnis, Laat jou hart vir laas daai stukkie vermis. Dan sit jy weg die lig van hierdie berou,
En los die kruis van die dood in die grond toegevou.’
Teks: Redaksie | Foto: Verskaf
Emma van der Waal
Mila Roscherr
It is all in the doing, of course!
Much has changed in our world and much is still changing, as it will continue to do, forever. Many, maybe even most of us, like to create our little stable cocoon of comfort that stays much the same from year to year. For those that seek this, it is important to say categorically that this not only unrealistic but actually impossible. For our own mental health and sense of peace it is more realistic and entirely sensible to make change the comfort zone and to attempt, at least, to move with the times. It is impossible to stop change or progress. It is in the nature of the world to keep moving on.
During the last year, we have seen dramatic changes.
We have the first democratically-elected government of national unity. We did have one at the dawn of democracy, but that one was contrived as a way of transitioning from our past into a different future. Our new one, the one we are all subject to now, will have to learn a whole new range of skills to fully realise the potential it offers for the country. This will require active leadership. We have seen the effect of making change a positive force for good with our national rugby teams – men, and women – and the way our women cricketers and footballers are managing to improve with virtually every outing. This has to do with leadership.
Just look at what Rassie Erasmus and Siya Kolisi have achieved by showing us all the power of collaboration and teamwork. It is not possible to manage come-from-behind victories against France, Ireland and four times against the All Blacks without a visionary and strong leadership that generates an implacable belief in what is possible. Even in the direst of circumstances. However, it is equally important to note that leadership seldom rests in only one or two people. The best leaders make it a mission to generate a culture of leadership such that the entire organisation and team endeavour to set standards of excellence in everything that they tackle. From the rugby examples we have quoted it is abundantly clear that the Springbok rugby side has immersed itself in this concept. It was clearly team efforts that created the achievements that we all loved and
applauded. It was the leadership of the team that created the environment in which every player was able to contribute his unique skills to the victorious nail-biting outcomes.
Just think of the quality of leadership that enabled France to produce an impeccable Rugby World Championship and two Olympic Games one after the other!
The opposite of this approach is not necessarily only to be found in a brutal dictatorship, but perhaps in an even worse form, benign neglect. We have frequently seen this around us. We complain about the state of our municipalities. The decay in too many towns around our country cannot be laid solely at the door of corruption and incompetence.
Simply stated there are far too many towns, even cities, where those charged with leadership simply do not care enough to take action. They neglect the promise of the oath they took to serve the people to best of their ability. In this situation of neglect corruption, crime and incompetence will thrive.
The answer to this challenge is what Rassie and Siya do well. We can be sure that their example will be used and copied and documented over and over because we can see that it works.
It starts with being present and visible.
It necessitates a crystal-clear clarity of vision about the future we desire. Not some Disneyworld version of the future, but a realistic view of what must be achieved to realise the ambitions of everyone, not just the ambitions of the few.
Secondly, there will be little chance of arriving at the gates of success without rock solid consistency. Consistency of talk, consistency of application and consistency of the messaging.
Nothing happens without clear and unequivocal communication. Everyone needs to learn how to sing from the same hymn sheet. Disparate and disconnected messaging can only sow confusion and discord.
Finally, collaboration at all levels is essential. Learning how to collaborate is a critical skill for all teams, no matter what the size. We are involved in the Aviation Development Foundation’s Protégé programme which aims to produce leaders for the future in the industry. We have seen how, simply by active collaboration, the confidence and competence of these young people grows by leaps and bounds as they learn from each other.
For leaders that wish to make an impact the answers are not too complicated: Have a clear wellcommunicated vision, be present, be active and be accessible!
tony@siroccostrategy.com
FRANSCHHOEK
ART Matters
Angus Taylor: The Weight of Wings
Everard Read Leeu Estates
Angus Taylor and his artist partner, Rina Stutzer, work from their home where he built the Dionysus foundry in 1997. He is regarded as one of the most acclaimed and accomplished artists in South Africa. Taylor graduated from the University of Pretoria, which awarded him an Alumni Laureate in 2005. He is known for his monumental and powerful work, mostly made from his immediate environment, 2 billion years old Belfast granite, red Jasper and orange clay. His bold and original use of natural stone together with bronze, has resulted in ambitious and large-scale public and private works. He conceptualises, clay models, carves and casts his works, assisted by 25 skilled craftsmen at his foundry. This latest exhibition comprises twelve new bronze and stone sculptures. The artist reminds us of wings as a metaphor for freedom, which also comes with responsibility and respect for Mother Earth, our planet. The arresting lithic levitation sculptures called ‘Dreams of Lithic Levitation’
Poetic Licence
are a pair of winged bronze figures, with Belfast Gabbro stone, weighing them down. In his ‘Artist Statement, he says that “they have powerful, granite wings but paradoxically this grounds the figures too. We are creatures of the earth and yet we yearn to fly – and fly we do.”
Four sculptures, the ‘Deduct Series’ in Labradorite combine figurative elements with a bronze figure.
“When the sculptures are viewed together, one can deduce the single figure. The Deduct Series is a new chapter in a practice I started many years ago. The stone I used is specific. In 2023 my partner, Rina Stutzer, and I visited a large stone exhibition of materials and technologies in Europe where I was stopped dead in my tracks by a blue shimmer emanating from a stone called Labradorite. After extensive research. I found some of the best to be from Madagascar.”
“Creating stacked sculptures remains core to my artistic practice. Stacking stone is one of the oldest ways for humankind to build anything. Before we could carve or make objects, we piled stones on top of each other to mark a place of importance to declare our existence.”
During the walkabout, the artist articulately described his work and the profound relevance of the earth, and the earth beneath our feet.
A monumental half-ton bronze figure, called ‘The Suspension of Self Assertion’, reclines on his side, while two small hares are crouched beside him.
”I want this sculpture to advocate for a humble
Between 1999 and 2009, Carol Ann Duffy was the UK’s Poet Laureate, the first woman to hold the post. Her poetry is strikingly original in tone, subject and imagery, and often feelingly personal. One of my favourites recalls a most influential teacher from her schooldays decades before. Here it is:
Death of a Teacher
The big trees outside are into their poker game again, shuffling and dealing, turning, folding their leaves drifting down to the lawn, floating away, ace high, on a breeze. You died yesterday.
When I heard the hour – home time, last bell, late afternoon – I closed my yes. English, of course, three decades back, and me thirteen. You sat on your desk, swinging your legs, reading a poem by Yeats to the bored girls, except my heart stumbled and blushed as it fell in love with the words and I saw the tree in the scratched old desk under my hands, heard the bird in the oak outside scribble itself on the air. We were truly there, present, Miss, or later the smoke from your black cigarette braided itself with lines from Keats. Teaching
Book Review
Earth by John Boyne
Publ. Doubleday.170 pages.
John Boyne is one of Ireland’s leading novelists, rubbing shoulders with other prize-winning authors like John Banville and Colm Tòibin. He is still best-known for his book “The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas”. However, his other 16 novels demonstrate his range of interests in a wide variety of social issues. As an openly gay writer he often focuses on homosexual issues on a personal and societal level. Last year he embarked on a four-part series of novellas, each with one of the elements as its title, and suitably related content. I reviewed the first, “Water,” favourably, a few months ago. Now he has published the second, “Earth,” which I regard as even better than its predecessor.
It is a taut, anguished story of a young Irishman, hardly more than a boy, who escapes from a remote Irish island, accessible only by ferry from Dublin, and makes his way to London. He is escaping as much from his father, as from the remoteness of the environment. Physically attractive and a
‘The Suspension of Self Assertion’
interaction with our natural world and a muchneeded retraction of our domination over it”.
“She as the Poet and the Poet as Witness, represents a strong female form. I wanted the anima’s strength which is different to the animus. Female strength is an abiding source of fascination for me. The figure carries her strength, the layered earth, her soil horizons or chronicles of geological time.”
The two sculptures titled ‘Demeter’ and ‘Persephone’ are earth goddesses. These are the ancient Greek goddesses whose fate caused the creation of the seasons. While working on them, the artist found the Homeric hymn to Demeter very moving.
is endless love; the poems by heart, spells, the lists lovely on the learning tongue, the lessons, just as you said, for life. Under the gambling trees, the gold light thins and burns, the edge of a page of a book, precious, waiting to be turned.
Carol Ann Duffy from ‘New Selected Poems 1984-2004’ (Picador, 2004}
When people ask me where my ideas for a poem come from it isn’t easy to tell them, mainly because ideas are everywhere. But it is true that sometimes poems arrive, as Duffy’s poem, in simple remembrance or celebration of an influential person. Such a person may be known or someone never met but whose inspirational influence is undeniable.
This was the motivation for my latest collection, just published, called ‘for…’, where all the poems were inspired by both well-known people – singer John Denver; writer Bill Bryson; rock musician Jeff Lynne; poet Mary Oliver; classical pianist David Helfgott etc. – and others such as my son, my wife, grandchildren and friends. Like Carol Ann Duffy I have fond memories of a teacher from my own schooldays who inspired me and positively affected my life thereafter. His name was Colin McGhee, my English teacher at Brookfield Comprehensive School in Kirkby, near Liverpool. Both school and the town were hard, aggressive, overwhelmingly macho places filled with working-class Liverpudlians who had been moved from the inner city to this purpose-built new town after World War II. Apart from a few shops and pubs there were no facilities at all to keep idle teenagers away from trouble.
We were expected to play football, fight and swear a lot, but not to enjoy poetry. That was frowned upon as weak or effeminate, so sensitive souls such as I tended to keep a low profile. Mr. McGhee, although far from the quintessential he-man type, was nevertheless feared by the thuggish element of youngsters because he would take no flak from any of them and was known to wield a ferocious slipper. So being in his English class was a revelation. To me he
dormant homosexual, he is also an accomplished footballer. His ambition, however, is to become a painter – all of which makes Evan Keogh an unusual and vulnerable character.
He has an acute awareness of the decisions that life forces on him. But he is also helpless and passive as he allows circumstances to determine those decisions. The tragedy is that he is talented and sensitive in a society that is predatory and destructive. In spite of his high ideals, in order to survive he allows his body to become a commodity that can be bought and sold.
The storytelling technique that Boyne uses is emotionally compelling. For instance, everything we know about Evan is told us by him as he faces trial for sexual assault. Through his own words we realise that the court case is framing the story of his life and making him face the lies upon which his life is based. The evidence that is led and the spin that the defence lawyer puts on the words of the victim are all revelatory.
He now sees that the evidence for his own behaviour that he has created for himself is as artificial as the tactics of the opposing lawyers. This is his coming-of-age story. But this new-found knowledge does not bring any satisfaction. Being a victim of his own lies is no salvation.
As the court case (and the plot) unfolds we learn that through his part-time occupation as a
In the garden of Franschhoek Everard Read gallery, two rhino calves, cast in bronze from lifesize animals stand still, as if at home. “Dum Spiro Spero” (While I breathe, I hope) is the poignant and profound plight rhinos find themselves in. These beautiful sculptures were made at Tswalu for the Tswalu Residency Exhibition.
‘Atman’ is an imposing, monumental sculpture in bronze and red Jasper stone, standing in the gardens of Leeu Estates. It embodies the real self, existence, knowledge and bliss.
www.everard-read-franschhoek.co.za
seemed cultured and kind, speaking clearly and with little or no ‘Scouse’ accent. I learned a lot from him.
His Voice for C.E.M.
The way it clipped the air like fingernails, sharp consonants – p’s, t’s, d’s – flicked crisply into the classroom’s humidity, pinging with a silvery click of ball bearings;
how it fizzed and skittled between desks, cast its blanket of softest, warmest vowels about the bony shoulders of the blackboard, soothing its chalky screech to a purr; the times it perched cross-legged on the edge of a table, chuckling flagrantly like a trout stream over stones, tickled by phrases we’d read but hadn’t grown into; that slow stirring of our pan of bland scouse with a dancing rise and fall of RP, girlish as flowers yet male as a sliding studs-up tackle in front of the Kop:
this was his voice, the way it gave me permission to speak, setting me free in a jacuzzi of words that even in their absence now are calling to me, painting me still.
Harry Owen from ‘for…’ (Bicornis, 2024)
Invitation: Please join me if you can at 11h00 on Thursday 31 October at the Banhoek Chili Oil Leopard Lounge in Kylemore for the launch of ‘for…’ – no entry charge, and books will be available to buy.
rent-boy he has been made the accomplice of a fellow footballer who rapes a young girl. He finds himself making a video recording of the incident on his phone. That is, literally, how passive he is in the incident. But, in the court, after the girl has reported the rape to the police the young men are both seen as equal participants in the criminal act. In a story so short, the narrative is highly compressed and Boyne’s skill is obvious in being able to both move the plot forward, and the journey to self-knowledge so inevitable. Evan’s eventual salvation is both satisfying and sad. It involves the earth of the island that he so often yearns for, and the earth of a garden in London that provides his redemption. This is a highly accomplished and thought-provoking novel.
HARRY OWEN
CHARLOTTE VAN ZYL
RENÉ DE REUCK
Smalls
DOMESTIC WORK: My name is Patricia Mangesi and I am looking for a job as a domestic worker. I am available on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Please contact me on 073 366 5392. For a reference, please contact 082 770 7694.
DOMESTIC WORK / GARDENER: My name is Silence Saka and I am a Malawian man looking for a job as a domestic worker or gardener. I have 5 years of experience and pride myself in being a hard worker. Please contact me on 078 957 8838. For references, please contact Trace at 063 098 1804, Peru van Niekerk at 081 038 2351, and Neil Douglas at 083 306 2418.
PLATTER GUIDES: Lifetime collection of Platter Wine Guides for sale. Every issue from highly sought-after first-ever 1980 edition to 2020 edition. All in excellent condition. R29k. WhatsApp 082 391 5327. Need a PET/HOUSE-SITTER with good references? Contact Ronelle @ 073 646 1687
RE-THINKING YOUR GARDEN? For Garden Consulting call Susan at 072 932 5393 PET / HOUSE SITTING: Tina Stanley. Trusted pet & house sitter in Franschoek, WC. Reliable care for your pets & home, ensuring peace of mind while you’re away. Contact 083 448 4951 for bookings & references.
RE-FIBRE GLASS YOUR POOL in any colour you like. Call RiaPools for a quote: 072 347 5355
ACCOMMODATION REQUIRED for quiet single lady with no pets, +-R5000/R7000pm ASAP Please contact Ronelle 073 646 1687
WESTERN CAPE HOUSE SITTERS: We have many mature, kind, responsible, animal loving, live-in house sitter members who would love to care for your home and pets. Your furry children may miss you but their environment and routines remain intact which is why we at Western Cape House Sitters will provide a perfect win-win for everyone... Peter Walsingham 082 822 4200 info@westerncapehousesitters.co.za
CHANGING TO A SALT WATER SYSTEM? Let us advise & quote for you! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
POOL PUMP PROBLEMS? Noise? We quote and help you out! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
STUFF WANTED: All manner of clothing and household items needed for our ‘First Friday of The Month’ jumble sales. Please help us to help the animals of the valley. Please drop off at the SPCA clinic in La Provence Street, Groendal, or phone for us to collect. 021 876 4808
FRESH, ORGANIC FARM PRODUCE: Delivered weekly to Franschhoek, including vegetables and fruit in season, chicken, eggs, cheese, honey, etc. Lists of available produce received on Monday, orders placed on Tuesday for Wednesday delivery. A number of Franschhoekers are already receiving weekly deliveries. To be added to the list contact Sue Norman on 083 321 3442 or suenorman50@outlook.com.
DO YOU STILL HAVE THAT POOL LEAK? Losing water all the time? Let us quote and take care of the problem! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
PROFESSIONAL POOL SERVICE REQUIRED? Keep it local! Get a quote. Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355
HOUSE/PET SITTER: I have worked with animals for over 20 years. I need to bring my 16-year-old dog with me. He sleeps all day and is not a barker. Fees are reasonable and references are available. Internet access essential. For further details call Rentia 072 324 3882.
Community Events
SPORT
FRANSCHHOEK TENNIS CLUB: Social tennis is played at the club on Fridays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 08h30. For more information contact Nicky. 082 455 6411
PARKRUN: Saturdays at Rickety Bridge Wine Estate. Time: 08h00. Cost: Free. Register at www.parkrun.co.za
CHURCH SERVICES
METHODIST CHURCH: Sunday service 10h00. Rev Russell Norman. 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509.
NG KERK: Sondagdienste 09h30. Geen aanddiens. Ds Peet Bester. 021 876 2431. Besoekers welkom.New
Apostolic Church: Le Roux Street, Groendal. Sundays 09h00, Wednesdays 19h30. Rector: Charles Leibrandt.
ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH: Groot Drakenstein. Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Revd Wilfred Meyer 084 407 1280. Office - 021 874 4008. willowdale@cybersmart.co.za
SHOFAR CHRISTIAN CHURCH: Services - 09h00 & 18h00 English services at 7 Lambrechts Street. Pastor Richard Wade. 083 225 8529. All welcome!
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.
GENERAL
Alcoholics Anonymous: WED evenings 19:00, Groendal Community Centre, Contact David +27 83 305 5159
Useful Numbers
ACCOUNTANTS
Tax Shop 021 876 2676
ATTORNEYS Susan Charlesworth 021 876 2592/072 402 9469
Snipelisky & Killian 083 250 0943/021 876 2084
BURGLAR ALARMS
Pepler Alarms 021 876 3308
CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS
Boland Bridge Club 021 876 3031
Franschhoek Tennis Club 078 278 4843
FHK Heritage & Ratepayers Ass. 083 441 8280
Groot Drakenstein Games Club 021 874 1906
- Craig Mc Naught: Captain 080 845 1014
- Lejean Pieterse, Hiring 082 490 0405 Lions 021 876 3775
Stb Masonic Lodge (Chris) 072 211 9991
Franschhoek Rotary Club 082 891 4613
Franschhoek Probus Club 021 876 3179
ELECTRICAL
Franschhoek Electric 074 313 7829/021 876 3640
Rensburg Electrical 021 876 2120/083 309 2923
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Franschhoek Pharmacy 021 876 2261
Franschhoek Health Club 021 876 3310
Karen Protheroe (Dietician) 082 925 0931
HOUSE & GARDEN
Clock Repairs
028 840 1716
Lighting & Accessories 021 876 3640
Ria Pools (Franschhoek) 021 876 2612/072 347 5355
Sue’s Gardens 083 321 3442
Valley Garden Service 071 591 0342
OPTOMETRIST
Marelise Bester 021 872 3530
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Fhk Physiotherapy Associates 021 876 4234 (office) 074 325 5555 (Bronwen) 076 842 6052 (Maans)
PLUMBERS
Franschhoek Plumbing 021 876 3759
PSYCHOLOGIST
Danielle Smith 082 812 1476
PUBLIC SERVICES
Hospice 021 876 3085
Library 021 808 8406
Post Office 021 876 2342
Welfare (ACVV) 021 876 2670
SPCA 083 745 5344
SHARF 076 327 4939
SCHOOLS
Bridge House School 021 874 8100
Franschhoek High School 021 876 2079
Groendal Primary School 021 876 2448
Groendal Secondary School 021 876 2211
Wes-Eind Primary School 021 876 2360
Dalubuhle Primary School 021 876 3957
STORAGE
Franschhoek Storage 021 876 2174
TOURIST INFORMATION & SERVICES
Info Office 066 224 6360 / 073 688 9894
Huguenot Memorial Museum 021 876 2532
VETERINARY
Fhk Animal Clinic (plus surgery) 021 876 2504
Emergencies / Weekends 021 863 3187 / 082 8089 100
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Stb Fire Dept. (Buildings) 021 808 8888
District Municipality(Bush & veld) 021 887 4446 021 886 9244
Police 10111/021 876 8061
Eskom 086 003 7566
Omnipage Farm Watch 021 852 3318
Plaaswag 021 876 2346
N1, N2 & R300 Emergency number: 021 946 1646
DENTISTS
Dr Schalk du Plessis 021 876 3070
DOCTORS
Dr Karin Eksteen 021 876 4622
Dr Alexander Heywood 021 876 2474
Dr Hannes Van der Merwe 066 100 6429
Dr Nicolas Els 021 876 2561
Dr Bernard Fisher 021 876 4622
AUDIOLOGIST
Audiologist Tracy-Ann Morris 084 264 0000
EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONSE
Medicare EMR 074 363 7744/021 876 4316
MUNICIPALITY
(Ward 1) Clr Pfeiffer (DA) 079 597 2765
(Ward 2) Clr Petersen (DA) 082 404 5055
(Ward 3) Clr Manuel (DA) 074 686 2364
(Ward 4) Clr Adams (DA)
✓ Prime rural location with views
✓ Customisable 2- & 3-bedroom homes
✓ Onsite clubhouse & care centre
✓ Enhanced security
✓ High-speed fibre connectivity
✓ Loadshedding solutions available
✓ Pet-friendly community
✓ Development approvals in place
✓ Only 10% deposit required
✓ Bonds available to qualifying buyers
✓ No transfer duty & costs
✓ Priced from R6.245.000 to R8.485.000
Exclusive Mandates For Sale in Franschhoek
23 HECTARE BOUTIQUE WINE FARM
EXCLUSIVE MANDATE. A rare opportunity to own this 23-hectare Boutique Farm and Winery in a truly spectacular setting overlooking the Franschhoek valley. Whether your interests extend to winemaking or just enjoying your days amongst vineyards and indigenous mountain fynbos, this special property presents many revenue possibilities to support your dream lifestyle.
The farm was previously planted to 12 hectares of Noble red varieties, the cornerstone of their flagship wine, and offers a 120 tonne wine production and cellaring facility along with a 330 sqm tasting and function venue.
Accommodation is offered in five separate dwellings including a 3-bedroom farmhouse and 2-bedroom cottage on the mid-slopes and a 4-bedroom home, 2-bedroom gate house and
FEATURE PROPERTY LA PETITE PROVENCE
EXCLUSIVE MANDATE. This lovely ground floor apartment on La Petite Provence Estate hasbeen renovated to a high standard and tastefully decorated to create a stylish and calm sanctuary ideal for either permanent or lock-up-and-go living.
A well-appointed kitchen makes clever use of space and provides counter-seating and an open-plan layout. The lounge/ living area enjoys plenty of light, a fireplace and doors out to a private garden benefitting from high quality faux lawn and low maintenance hedges with a charming, treed outlook and mountain views.
Both bedrooms are carpeted and include built-in cupboards and a light, bright feel. The master bedroom benefits from doors directly to the garden and lovely views across the adjoining green belt.
1-bedroom studio on the lower portion of the farm. A further uninhabited old cottage could be restored for additional accommodation.
The higher slopes of the farm have been actively regenerated and boast 7 hectares of natural Fynbos, including Proteas, Ericas and Restios, a haven for birds and natural wildlife.
The owners’ vision to live harmoniously with nature inspired their transition to biodynamic farming practices in 2010 and continues to reward its hosts with the re-emergence of natural flora and fauna in abundance. This combination of natural beauty and a prized Franschhoek lifestyle is a unique opportunity for the right buyer.
Tom Clode 079 955 3114
Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R55 million plus VAT
A shared full bathroom has been updated to provide bath, shower, toilet and his-and-hers basins with lots of storage.
Also includes a dedicated, covered parking bay and a small private storage area. Furnishings can be negotiated. The estate does not permit short-term holiday rentals of less than 3 months.
Well located within walking distance of the village, these Sectional Title apartments benefit from security, a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis court, kids play park and outdoor braai area. The estate is planted to vines and offers residents a private wine farm feel with space to enjoy scenic walks around the vineyards.
Tom Clode 079 955 3114
Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 R3 395 000
