the Muse - Sep 20145 by the Muse magazine by Pinelands Directory

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PINELANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE issue

55 | Sept 2015

SPECIAL FEATURE EDUCATION AND CHILDCARE

SUE LE ROUX

SUPPORTS THE SUNFLOWER FUND FLAT BREAD Heleen WITH AVO Meyer

MOUNT Community KILIMANJARO Travellers

WHALE Out and WATCHING About

SPRING 2015

has a rrived

22 SEP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 27 SEP View the latest trends and products for the new season on display. ww w.ho wa rd cen tre. co. za

, Y ou re welcome

WELCOME About the cover: The Webb Ellis Cup is the prize that we hope the Springboks will bring home at the end of the Rugby World Cup tournament! The Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour will travel through Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Wales and England before arriving at Twickenham on 18 September ahead of the opening ceremony. Congratulations to Debbie Macleod Smith who won our August competition for four tickets to The Springbok Experience!

Above: Cape Bulbul

GO BOKKE! September heralds the start of the Rugby World Cup. After the recent results, I would so enjoy it if the Sprinboks managed to really turn it on at the right time and surprise everyone with another trophy win… that may be a bit too much to expect this time around. Never mind though, it's still great to get together and share the big games with family or friends over a beer and start using our firewood in the braai instead of the fireplace. If you haven't yet visited The Springbok Experience museum at the Waterfront, now would be a good time… you are sure to come away well entertained and informed so you'll have a lot of rugby chat to share in the amateur's commentary box. With the prospect of Spring finally in sight, it must mean the fairs, fêtes and carnivals season is starting… and indeed, our Community Calendar this month is brimming with many local events to ease you into the great outdoors again after the long winter hibernation. I am certainly looking forward to spending more time outside with some sun on my face and to swapping the heavy coats, boots and soups for a T-shirt, slops and tjops. In this edition we have our usual Education and Childcare Feature. I am always interested to see the directions that education is taking to prepare young people as the world constantly changes around us. I was pleased to see that Science, and in particular, Technology is recognised as remaining relevant and important. In an increasingly socially networked and connected world the allure of the social sciences and arts is strong, but we should not forget that all the magic is made possible by the many technologies behind it – and that takes scientists and engineers to design them and technicians and artisans to make and run the systems. A technical profession, at whatever level, is noble, rewarding and valuable. Enjoy the edition!

Max Schutte Editor Max Schutte Photographer and Writer Glynnis Schutte Regular Contributors Heleen Meyer Freelance Food Consultant Callan Cohen FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology Carol Booth Cannons Creek Independent School Sue Torr Crue Invest

Next Muse Edition: October 2015 Content Deadline: 18 September 2015

The Cape Bulbul can be easily recognised by its brown body with a contrasting yellow undertail, and its crested head. It is very similar to the Dark-capped Bulbul, or "toppie", that is so common in the more tropical eastern parts of South Africa but the Cape Bulbul has a ring of white feathers around the eye and is mainly limited to the Western Cape. It has a cheerful song and is often seen feeding on berries, although I have seen one kill and attempt to eat a baby chameleon in Pinelands. Text: Dr Callan Cohen, research associate at the UCT FitzPatrick Institute of African O rnith o l o g y, b i rd book author and director of Birding Africa tours: www.birdingafrica.com. Photo: Mike Buckham.

Contact Us tel • 021 531 3324 cell • 073 644 1288 email • muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za post • The Muse, 12 Rhone, Pinelands, 7450 News, photographs, stories and ideas can be submitted to The Muse Magazine by email at muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za. The Muse reserves the right to select articles for inclusion and to make alterations to submitted contributions. Our Rate Card contains advertising and circulation details, publication schedules, deadlines and artwork requirements. View our Rate Card on our website: www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za.

© Copyright reserved. All editorial content and graphics are copyright and may not be copied, republished or re-used without the express permission of The Muse Magazine, which reserves all rights. Parts of this publication may also be subject to separate copyright by other parties.

September 2015 | the muse | 1

BIRDS IN PINELANDS

Buying, Selling or Letting Property?

CALL US TODAY!

Harcourts Maynard Burgoyne Pinelands 021 531 3041 Southern Suburbs 021 531 0993

Now in Howard Centre

www.harcourts.co.za

COMMUNITY CALENDAR 5 September 2015 READING ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA CONFERENCE

Come to the family and community reading day at the Baxter Theatre from 10am to 4:30pm. Free entry to all events. Call Cindy Maree 021 406 6733.

12 September 2015 RONDEBOSCH PARK MARKET

Roy Pieterse

A market with a variety of crafts, clothing, jewellery, food and much more, runs from 9am to 2pm on the corner of Campground and Sandown Roads in Rondebosch.

Instructor & SA Champion Ballroom & Latin Dancer

PINEHURST GREEN RUN

with

WED & THUR • 7pm - 8pm Pinelands North Primary – Richmond, Ave Pinelands R220 Monthly Fee or R40 Per Class

18 September 2015

Pinehurst Primary will be hosting the annual Green Run. Registration on the school fields starts at 4:30pm and the races start at 5:30pm. Food will be on sale, partly in aid of Tygerberg Infectious diseases. MC: SA comedian and actor Siv Ngesi.

18 September 2015 SAPS MOTORCADE

ZUMBA FOR: Fundraisers, Team Building, Networking

DJ FOR: Birthday Parties, Weddings, Corporate Events PROFESSIONAL SOUND AND LIGHTING EQUIPMENT cell 082 294 6746 email latincon@gmail.com

48.indd 1

Look out for the motorcade at 6pm on Friday 18th heralding the Fun Day on the 19th.

19 September 2015 SAPS COMMUNITY FUN DAY

A Family Fun Walk kicks off the day at 9am. Come and enjoy craft and food stalls, horse and dog units, fire brigade and paramedic displays plus the Airwing helicopter. There will be music and a tea garden, as well as the presence of the armed response companies, Victim Support and the camera project. The day ends at 3pm.

26 September 2015 ST STEPHEN'S FAIR

Come to the St Stephens Fair from 9am to 2pm at St Stephens Church, Central Square, Pinelands. Craft market, secondhand books, teas, food stalls, children's entertainment. Something for everyone!

30 September 2015 STEEL MAGNOLIAS

The ladies cancer support group meets at 20 Peak Drive, at 7pm. Eurythmy teacher Cobie Roelvert is the guest speaker. Call Catherine 072 040 7563 or 021 531 3963.

30 September 2015 PINELANDS STAMP CIRCLE

7:15pm at the activities hall of the Pinelands Library. Exhibit by Brain Fenemore on British Bechuanaland and Protectorate Postal History. Call John 021 531 1954.

3 October 2015

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH WHITE ELEPHANT SALE

Come to Nerine Avenue, browse and find those items you’ve always wanted. From 9am until stocks run out. Tea and cake will also be on sale. Email pcchurch@cybersmart.co.za.

24 October 2015

CANNONS CREEK CARNIVAL

From 9am to 2 pm on Cannons Creek Independent School's Sports Field in Nursery Way, Pinelands. Rides, tea garden, entertainment, food stalls, craft market. Something for everyone. Email Merrick on: cannonsevents@gmail.com.

31 October 2015

HELEN KELLER SOCIETY FÊTE

Come along and join in the fun at the Annual Spring Fête on Saturday 31 October, from 9am. Teddy bears knitted by residents will be on sale. Any donations are welcome. Call Ruth on 021 531 5311.

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! email muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za. Send content for the October 2015

edition by 18 September 26/01/2015 2:35 PM 2015. R100 will ensure placement in the calendar.

HelenKeller S O C I E T Y

E S T. 1 9 5 8

A Retirement Centre and Low Vision Services

Retirement Centre Community Services Resource Centre Low Vision Service Full Nursing in Care Centre (temporary or permanent) Assisted Living in Home & Askew Suites Independent Living in Cottages Links Drive, Pinelands, Cape Town, 7405 Private Bag X25, Howard Place, 7450 Phone +27 21 531 5311 Fax +27 21 531 8275 E-mail management@helenkeller.org.za Web www.helenkeller.org.za

Positively Pinelands Despite the Cold Weather Property Prices and Rentals Remain Hot

Featured Property: Pinelands

Julie Meyer

Pinelands

*R3.350m

Thornton

*R1.100m

Pinelands

*R2.450m

Pinelands

*R2.595m

Pinelands

*R2.850m

Pinelands

*R1.050m

NEW LISTING

083 288 8481 Office 021 531 7507

RENTALS

RECENTLY SOLD

For a free market estimate of your home for sale or rent please call the Positively Pinelands team.

SALES

Mandy Butler

079 499 3351

RECENTLY SOLD

While the economic challenges are no doubt mounting, we believe that the housing market will maintain its good balance for the rest of this year. There will always be buyers and sellers who need to move for whatever reason, being transferred to another location, or getting a promotion and looking to move to a better house or area for example. I must warn that another interest rate hike this year could well impact on demand and prices. So, if you are looking to sell, now might just be the right time.

Pat Peat

083 290 1331

RECENTLY SOLD

The number of properties on the market has reduced drastically and, in prime areas like Pinelands and Thornton, there are now waiting lists of bond and cash ready buyers. The shortage of properties

for sale has also increased the demand for rental accommodation which is good news for the investor.

RECENTLY SOLD

It is not a lack of buyers, but rather a lack of stock that is characterising much of the housing market right now. Despite the twenty five basis point interest rate hike, conditions within the market continue to by and large favour sellers. The time that it now takes to sell a property has practically halved from what it was two years ago. Well priced properties can sell within a month of listing, sometimes in less than a week.

Kathy Anderson

Guest House Living

*R3.600m

8 Bedrooms, en-suite

A fantastic opportunity for the large family. Bring granny and grandpa too. This home offers 8 generous bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Welcoming entrance hall with lounge, separate dining room and large kitchen. Spacious back garden with pool. Currently tenanted. WEB REF 360856

NEW LISTING

083 987 7673 Office 021 531 7507

Second Floor︱Howard Centre︱Pinelands︱Phone: 021 531 7507︱pinelands@seeff.com ︱

SeeffPinelands

COMMUNITY NEWS

September 2015 | the muse | 4

HUGE SUCCESS WITH

Pinelands High School presented the well-known musical My Fair Lady from 4 – 10 August 2015. The show was a resounding success with over 100 students being involved from acting to backstage, makeup, set design and playing in the orchestra. Strong actors and singers were able to fulfil the roles. Mr Michael Harris expertly directed the play with Mrs Deidre Chandler serving as the Musical Director. The musical is based on George Bernard Shaw's book called Pygmalion (one of the Grade 10 setwork books this year). The 1956 Broadway production was a phenomenal success followed by a successful London production and a film version. The first South African production was

My Fair Lady

AT PINELANDS HIGH

DRIED MANGOS

Above from left: Thaakira Jabaar, Chanté Strydom and Rebecca Marx posing in their Ascot Outfits. staged in 1963 by African Consolidated Theatres starring David Oxley and the young Bunty Turner. The most recent production was that of the Gilbert and Sullivan Society in 2008. They will be producing the show at the Artscape again next year.

CANNONS CREEK U13 HOCKEY Dylan Leonard helped his team win gold in the U13 Regional Inter-Zonal tournament in George during the school holidays. The tournament ran from 29 June - 1 July and Dylan was chosen for the Southern Zonal team.

2015/08/13 2:35 PM

Apply for your DISCOUNT LOYALTY CARD in-store

055.indd 1

THE BIGGEST VARIETY OF

DRIED FRUIT | NUTS | SEEDS

HOWARD CENTRE, PINELANDS www.montagudriedfruitnuts.co.za f MontaguDriedFruitAndNuts t montagudfn

U13 Hockey Zonal Reps for 2015 from Left to Right: Ayrton du Plooy, Aidan Fitzgerald, Nkosi Lukhele, Dylan Leonard, Luke Carter, Nikki Stodel, Lea Marmarellis.

18/08/2015 12:07 PM

Pinelands & Thornton

021 531 0773

COMMUNITY NEWS

MAKE A CONNECTION WITH WWW.FORGOOD.CO.ZA The children at Mindstretch School in Pinelands are very happy with their new playground equipment sourced through the forgood website, which connects volunteers of services and goods, with worthy causes and businesses serving the community. Jo Maxwell, a Rotarian and active member of the Red Hat Renegades saw the equipment being offered on the website, and thought of the children at Jennifer Southgate's pre-school. The Mindstretch Preschool provides a nurturing, therapeutic and educational environment for children with mild to moderate learning challenges, with special provision made for those on the autism spectrum. Jennifer Southgate educator, principal and director of Mindstretch notes that movement is critical in early childhood development. Movement and good nutrition play an important role in moulding and influencing the structure of the brain and it is therefore important that children in the formative years are encouraged to move and be active. Given the emphasis that Mindstretch places on movement they were thrilled to be the grateful recipients of a jungle gym and swings when Pinelander Jo Maxwell matched the welcome donation of Ananda Richards with a need of Mindstretch preschool. Jennifer is the only certified HANDLE®(Holistic Approach to Neuro Development and Learning Efficiency) Practitioner and trainer in South Africa and indeed the whole of Africa who has completed the advanced training and is affiliated with The HANDLE Institute, USA. www.handle.org. Jo Maxwell is an inspiring woman who is involved in numerous projects and charity initiatives. She wears three hats – the Cape Town Red Hat Renegades hat, the Rotary hat and her personal “do it on my own” hat. For her work in 2005, she was honoured with the Cape Times / Vodacom / Waterfront Woman of Worth award for her commitment to the community. In 2008 she was named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. Jo is currently involved in numerous projects including the world renowned Goodnight and God Bless sleeping bags made from newspapers and plastic. To contact Jo call 021 531 7288. For information on mindstretch preschool see www.mindstretch.co.za.

Central Square | Pinelands www.jawitz.co.za

PROPERTIES

Thinking of selling or WE DO IT renting your property? ALL THE TIME! SALES AGENTS

Richard Smith 083 557 7515 Linette Smith 082 466 1825 * asking price

FOR SALE

Pinelands

SOLD BY US

*R1.995m

Pinelands

FOR SALE

Thornton

SOLD BY US

*R1.450m

Thornton

TO LET

Pinelands

*R3.350m

*R1.750m

LET BY US

R18 000 pm

Pinelands

R4 400 pm

RENTAL TEAM

Craig Watt 082 410 9720 Annette Mouton

Administrator

Qualified Tenant Database and Profile Network Affiliation

Council Accounts Collection • Legal Process Expertise • Maintenance

h metalk JAWITZ PROPERTIES

RATES CLEARANCE CERTIFICATES

Above: Children at Mindstretch enjoying playtime on their new jungle gym and swings. Jo Maxwell (left) is standing next to Jennifer Southgate (right).

September 2015 | the muse | 5

Once a property is sold, the transferring attorney applies to the Municipality for rates clearance who then provides the conveyancing firm with an account showing what must be paid before the clearance certificate can be issued. The Conveyancer sends this to the seller who must pay the Conveyancer, who in turn pays the Municipality. The assessment includes all outstanding rates, an account for rates, refuse, electricity, sewage and water for an additional period of 120 days. Rates clearance certificates are usually valid for about 4 months from date of issue, but the account must be paid within 30 days of assessment. On registration of transfer the deeds office notifies the Municipality who then finalizes accounts and sends same to sellers and buyers. The new owner will pay rates etc from date of transfer, but first account seldom arrives before 3 to 4 months after transfer. If the final account to the Seller is in credit then the Seller must apply for a refund – obviously if in debit, then that amount must be paid by the Seller.

M a c l e od ’s At t or n e y s

ATTORNEYS | CONVEYANCERS AND ESTATE ADMINISTRATORS

021 788 1439

COMMUNITY NEWS

PNPS SCIENCE FAIR 2015 Wednesday 17 June was a remarkable day at Pinelands North Primary School as parents, teachers and friends of the school were absolutely amazed by the creativity, courage and confidence of close to 70 of the Red School’s pupils.

HIGH QUALITY PRESENTATIONS

Ann Morton and the Science Fair organisers were optimistic about the potential of the event when they announced it to the staff and pupils in April. Their expectations were exceeded in terms of the number of participants that entered, and the quality of the presentations across all grades.

September

Special Juicy Beef Burgers Only R20 was R23.90

Breakfasts & Lunches sit down or take-away

Party Platters Frozen Meals

BANTING MEALS available daily

Millside Park, FREE DELIVERIES TO Morningside, Ndabeni SURROUNDING AREAS

021 531 6398

for orders over R30 Mon - Fri • 9am - 3pm

Tony’s

053.indd 1

17/06/2015

TREASURES

I will offer you cash for any of these items:

GOLD (even scrap gold) remember when you lost that

earring and buried the other in your jewellery box? SILVER from scrap jewellery to silver teasets MEDALS Boer War, WW1, WW2 inc badges & buttons. COINS remember the old tickey, sixpence, shilling, 5 shilling and R1 coin from the 60’s? POSTCARDS up to 1945 (1900-1920 are best) CUPS & SAUCERS duos & trios (plate, cup & saucer) OLD TOYS Schuco, Dinky, Meccano etc. BRASS & COPPER who still wants to clean it?

Call me… my number is 083 775 00 55 … you stand to earn some cash for those old trinkets, bits & pieces that no longer serve you.

email: destony@telkomsa.net

HEALTHY LIVING AS THE FOCUS

The fair included posters, three dimensional displays, chemical reactions, video clips of practical investigations, environmental reports, power point presentations, experiments, research projects and a range of creative and innovative ideas. The staff agreed that the focus of the fair should be on ‘Healthy Living’ as the Red School has been very determined to establish healthy habits and raise awareness of the importance of active lifestyles. The participants were, however, allowed to explore other topics which resulted in a very well balanced fair, covering a wide range of interesting fields.

YOUNG SCIENTISTS FROM EVERY GRADE

The buzz in the Bob Shepard Hall reflected the excitement and enthusiasm that has become a trademark of the positive learning environment at Pinelands North. Opening the fair to all grades was a crucial step towards securing a much larger audience. It proved to be very rewarding as our young scientists were given the opportunity to explain their ideas on many different levels, from the most basic to the more complex. It proved how brave children can be as long as they are given an opportunity to express themselves in different ways.

MANDELA DAY DONATIONS The PNW (Pinelands Neighbourhood Watch) Committee is very pleased to advise that a total of R5 127 was raised via member donations. Thank you to 8:34 PM everyone who donated so generously! The PNW Committee decided to match this amount and a total of R10 254 will be donated to The Youth Possibility Centre. Don Shay, Founder and Trustee of The Pinelands Youth Leadership & Sports Development Trust said "Providing positive youth development activities is a very important contribution to a more comprehensive approach to the prevention of violence, safety and crime reduction. A big thank you to the Pinelands Neighbourhood Watch community for your visionary support for our work." Call Don Shay at 072 160 0277.

Top: Chander Bohms investigated the unknown sugar contents in different substances. Below: Ethan Crocker (Gr 1) explaining how his volcano erupts.

TOP PROJECT ENTERED INTO ESKOM EXPO

Pinelands North Primary School is very proud of the young scientists, and very excited for Zara Nijzink-Laurie and Tarawen Corfield whose research project has been entered in this year’s CAPE TOWN ESKOM EXPO. These girls are commended for their efforts during the holidays preparing for the event. Best wishes girls! Article by Leroy M Botha, Teacher at PNPS.

CANNONS CREEK 2016 SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNER Radiyah Mohamed, is the winner of the Grade 8, 2016 Scholarship Award! Radiyah is presently at PNPS in Grade 7. She says that she is really looking forward to the cultural activities at high school.

September 2015 | the muse | 6

COMMUNITY NEWS

An owner managed beauty escape

PINEHURST LEARNERS BUILDING BRIDGES THROUGH THE STARTING CHANCE PROJECT The Starting Chance Project in Mfuleni township is impacting and changing the lives of children, parents and teachers. But it is also building bridges and building relationships between children across Cape Town. On 21 July 2015, Pinehurst Primary

HAIR NAILS FACIALS WAXING EYELASH EXTENSIONS SPRAY TANNING

SPRING SPECIALS VITADERM FACIAL book any facial and receive a free one for a friend.

HAIR SPECIAL School, led by Leana van Rooyen, took their wash, cut & blow for R200 outreach team to visit Emmanuel Educare, a DELUXE PEDICURE shack school in dire need of help. including Gelish for R220 Leana explains: “I feel it is very important that children give back to others through donating their time. It helps them to identify with a wider variety of people and hopefully encourages them to become adults who want to make a difference. Pinehurst is committed to making a difference and playing their part in giving our Township children a Starting Chance www.urbantherapy.co.za on their educational journey. The learners Sunrise Park, Prestige Drive, Maitland at Pinehurst collect useful educational items like games, puzzles, balls and more and donate these to the educare centres they visit.” For more information on the Starting Chance Trust, contact Ali Corbett on 082 491 1171 or UrbanTherapy-M5-052.indd 1 17/08/201 ali@startingchance.org.za.

phone: 021 531 5327

CANNONS CREEK OUTREACH Last term the learners from Grade 4 to Grade 6 spent their last day of school knitting squares for blankets for those less fortunate. Thanks to the hard work of all the learners, parents and staff over 25 beautiful knitted blankets were made and over R1 000 was raised after raffling one of the blankets. This money went towards the purchase of eight Street Sleeper sleeping bags for people living on the streets of Cape Town. Several of the Grade 5 and Grade 6 learners delivered the blankets to the Christine Revell Children’s Home in Athlone where 49 abandoned, abused, orphaned and neglected children from birth to five years old are cared for. The learners had an amazing experience spending the morning playing and interacting with the children. They look forward to going back in the near future.

Cape Town Office Pinelands Branch Office

3rd Floor, Vunani Chambers 17 Mountbatten Avenue 33 Church Street, Pinelands Cape Town Cape Town

To schedule an appointment contact Andre Snyman on 021 422 1241 or email info@lamprecht-attorneys.co.za

Website: www.lamprecht-attorneys.co.za Article by Kelsey Whiting Grade 5B Teacher Cannons Creek Indepenedent Primary School

Dr Louise Wigens Dr Ryan Cholwill

Lamprecht-M5-047.indd 1

19/11/2014

GENERAL PRACTITIONERS

Medical Aid Rates CareCross Approved PRACTICE HOURS

Mon - Fri 08:30 - 17:00 Saturday 09:00 - 12:00

Phone 021 531 4111

September 2015 | the muse | 7

Jan Smuts Drive, Pinelands www.westendmedicalsuite.co.za

Creating and protecting your wealth

IN CELEBRATION OF

FINANCIAL PLANNING WEEK 7 – 11 SEPTEMBER 2015 In partnership with the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa (FPI), Crue Invest will be joining the campaign to educate consumers on the importance of financial planning and financial literacy. We have the following events planned and we’d love you to join us.

PRO BONO ADVICE MORNING Our team of financial planners and legal advisors will be available to consult at no cost to any members of the public who require advice regarding any area of their financial, retirement and estate planning. When: Tuesday, 8 September 2015 Where: 5 Long Place, Pinelands Time: Our advisors will be available for consultation between 09:00 - 12:00 RSVP: Please book an appointment with Shana Petersen by calling 021 530 8500 or emailing her at shana@crue.co.za What: Depending on the nature of the advice that you require, please bring along any relevant documentation or information that may assist us in the advice process.

FINANCIAL LITERACY COURSE FOR DOMESTIC WORKERS & GARDENERS This course teaches basic financial literacy to domestic workers and gardeners in Pinelands and Thornton. Craig Torr, who is fluent in Xhosa and English, will deliver the bilingual course which covers debt management, the dangers of buying on credit, how interest works, budgeting and savings. When: Friday, 11 September 2015 Where: Pinelands Baptist Church Hall, La Gratitude Road, Pinelands Time: 09:00 - 10:30 RSVP: We are providing tea/coffee and muffins for delegates, so please let us know if you have a domestic worker attending so that we can cater accordingly. Call Shana Petersen on 021 530 8500 or email her at shana@crue.co.za. What: Delegates will be provided with course material and budgeting books.

CRUE HOUSE 5 Long Place, Pinelands

021 530 8500 info@crue.co.za www.crue.co.za

We’d love you, your loved ones and your employees to join us at either or both of the above events as we celebrate Financial Planning Week in South Africa.

“ Education is the most

powerful weapon you can choose to change the world.” Nelson Mandela

Crue Invest (Pty) Ltd is a licensed Financial Service Provider No. 19025

MONEY MATTERS

The financial planning evolution By Sue Torr Director at Crue Invest

How the financial planning industry has evolved over the past 20 years

Like You Tube, Crocs and global warming, financial planning as we know it today did not exist twenty years ago. Today’s highly regulated profession – which is governed by a series of stringent legislation, governed by the Financial Services Board (FSB) and accredited the Financial Planning Institute (FPI), is a far cry from the industry that existed in our fledgling democracy of 1995. Financial planning of yester-year - with its perverse incentives, excessive fees and punitive penalties – has thankfully evolved into an honourable profession advanced by internationally recognised certification, whose values are rooted in the virtues of independence, transparency and client best-interests.

People seldom have one job for life

Previous generations, many of whom were employed for life by a single employer, experienced little need for financial planning advice. Insurance and pension fund benefits were provided as a matter of course by one’s employer until the legislated retirement age of 65. However, restructuring of the workplace and massive changes to the global economy have resulted in employees enjoying a wide variety of employment opportunities during their careers – an estimated nine jobs in a 45-year career – which in turn means shorter job tenures, less consistent retirement funding benefits, more opportunities to withdraw pension fund savings, and ultimately more complicated financial planning needs.

Registration of financial planners

The industry’s bible is the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act of 2002 (FAIS Act) which governs the manner in which financial planners conduct their business and interact with their customers. In terms of the Act, all financial planners are required to be licensed, accredited and follow a strict professional code of conduct. Any financial planner intent on credibility, independence and being optimally qualified, should be a registered member of the Financial Planning Institute of South Africa (FPI) and have achieved the

Certified Financial Planner® accreditation. The FPI is the leading professional body for South African financial planners, and works together with financial planning institutes in twenty other countries in order to secure a high international standard for the profession. In fact, the CFP® certification denotes the highest level of financial planning excellence world-wide, and is the recognised benchmark for fair, sound and independent advice.

The B.Com Financial Planning Degree

The need for highly qualified financial planners to navigate the inherently complicated areas of estate & succession planning, retirement funding, income tax, matrimonial property and risk, has given rise to the introduction of the increasingly sought-after B.Com Financial Planning Degree which is now offered by most South African universities.

Evolution to fee based practices

A much-needed and long-overdue part of the evolution process has been the ground-breaking move by a select number of financial planning practices in South Africa to develop fee-based practices. Shunning of broker commissions and perverse incentive structures has given rise to a new breed of fiercely independent and unashamedly transparent financial advisors who understand that their real value lies in the quality and legitimacy of their written advice. Unencumbered by sales targets and irreverent of upfront commissions that are apropos of nothing other than good sales skills, fee-based financial advisors are not affiliated with any one investment house or insurance company, and charge a professional fee for their advice – much like a lawyer, accountant or tax practitioner would charge. It’s been said that the only time we should ever look back is to see how far we’ve come. It’s been an encouraging journey. 

September 2015 | the muse | 8

Harcourts Maynard Burgoyne Southern Suburbs

T 021 531 0993

OUT AND ABOUT

Whale watching It's whale watching season - June to December - a time when the Southern Right whales come to our warmer waters to mate and calve. We took a boat trip beyond the whale reserve at Hermanus in Walker Bay to see if we would be lucky enough to get some photographs close up of these magnificent creatures. We dreamed of the whales lifting themselves out of the water "spyhopping" to investigate us at close range - we hoped to be drenched by a few breaching splashes, and we yearned for that famous whale tail photograph that we see on many a post card. Well the boat ride lasted about two hours - the weather was kind, the swell on the sea was a gentle two meters – but alas, the whales just didn't come out to play. We were given fleeting glances of their noses covered with callosities, and just the tips of their tales sinking back into the sea. As they say "sometimes lucky; sometimes not." Our best image was taken just outside the new harbour when a mother and calf swam by (see image above). Whale facts: • Southern Right whales have no teeth, and feed by filtering small sea creatures through their baleen plates. • The whales develop large "callosities" on their heads. These are made from material much like a human finger nail and they host large colonies of whale lice. • Mating season is July to August. Calving season (gestation about 11 months) June to August, with calves weighing 1 to 1.5 tonnes at birth. (1 metric ton = 1000kg). • Southern Right whales have been protected since 1935. • The length at physical maturity can be 16 meters with a weight of up to 60 tonnes. A fully grown Southern Right whale can weigh as much as 8 adult African elephants. • At over 450kg per testicle the right whale is believed to have the largest testicles of any known animal. • Lifespan averages between 50 and 100 years. • The southern right whale is a marine mammal – it produces milk, gives birth, is warm-blooded and breathes air. • All baleen whales have two blow holes, through which they blow a cloud of vapour when they surface to breathe. All toothed whales have one blow hole.

www.harcourtsmaynardburgoyne.co.za

Find out what your property is worth TODAY! To find out how Harcourts Maynard Burgoyne can assist you with your property needs, please contact one of our Thornton property specialists. Buying, Selling & Letting Residential Property in Cape Town since 1964. SOLD BY US

Thornton

*R2,195,000

SOLD BY US

Thornton

*R1,599,000

SOLD BY US

*R1,550,000

SOLD BY US

Pinelands

Thornton

*R835,000

LET BY US

*R535,000

Pinelands

*R7,500pm

Pauline Hareb Quentin Jute

Roxy Pugh

Kate Philbin

c 082 490 0344 c 082 864 8708

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September 2015 | the muse | 9

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EDUCATION & CHILDCARE

the

muse

community magazine pg10

YOUR CHILD’S SPORT – WHAT TO DO WHEN IT ALL GOES WRONG

Following many hours of coaching, support and encouragement, the big day arrives. Everything is perfect. You and your child are expecting something special in terms of results following all the hard work… And then, the unthinkable happens… Failure!! Perhaps it was a poor performance, a mistake by your child, a mistake by an official, or just competitors that were better on the day; what ensues is heartache as you see your child suffer the pain and agony of defeat and failure. We’ve all been there, either as participants when we were younger or more recently as parents.

SO, WHAT DO WE DO?

1. Love and support them. They don’t need a huge motivational speech right now or an unpacking of the finer details of what went wrong. Now is the time to just be there for them. 2. Allow them to be disappointed. You don’t have to fix anything right then and there. Being disappointed is part of the learning process. As difficult as this

excellence excellence

SPECIAL FEATURE

is, don’t try to take away the 'pain' of disappointment, frustration or defeat. Many a champions’ character was forged through experiencing that 'pain'. 3. Focus on the positive life lessons they can learn. There are many extremely important life lessons we can help teach our children through these experiences.

OUR ROLE IS TO HELP THEM TO:

• Always respect the decision of officials, even when we disagree with them. • Redefine “failure” as a necessary step towards improving, and learning that each “failure” is what helps them grow, get better and achieve their goals. • Learn from the experience and help them continue to move forward. • Help your child take responsibility for their failure or mistake and then channel their efforts into improving that. • Encourage and praise the effort they put into preparing for their sport rather than the outcome or result. • Believe in your children. Let them know that they can do it… not despite their failures, but because of them!  By Rob Buck Sports Director at Pinehurst Primary School

Pinelands High School Excellence

Leadership

Innovation

Are you looking for a high school which:

innovation innovation leadership leadership

• pursues academic excellence as its core purpose? • uses educational research and professional growth to improve learning? • offers an extensive subject choice in the formal curriculum? • has a rich and varied sporting, musical, dramatic, artistic & cultural offering? Our catchwords - Excellence, Leadership, Innovation - encapsulate our vision to be a relevant, forward-thinking and high-achieving school which produces young people ready to make a significant contribution to our country and the world.

www.phs.org.za

EDUCATION & CHILDCARE

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community magazine pg11

SPECIAL FEATURE

RESILIENCE – helping children bounce back More and more young children are unable to bounce back after something adverse happens in their lives. Why is this and how can we help them?

DEVELOPING INDEPENDENCE

We need to prepare the child for the path and not the path for the child. Parents cannot always run to a child’s assistance when something goes wrong. How can we teach children to face the realities of tomorrow and teach them coping skills? Parents hoping their children will achieve what they did not, can lead to guilt in the children. Working parents also feel guilty that they are not there for their child on a daily basis and others are raising their child. When this goes wrong we have children going through depression and displaying other side effects.

WHAT CAN WE DO AS PARENTS?

Continued conversations and listening are are important. Then we can ask the children how they would sort out difficult issues. One can offer many different strategies but the best is for them to solve the problem themselves. If they have squabbles with their peers or if a peer is teasing them they need to know their choices: walk away, tell the other child that they are being unkind - but definitely not group together against the ‘aggressor’. Children will grow strong through experiencing different hardships. Parents and other adults should provide the tools and skills to face these challenges.

TEMPERING FAILURE

When the child has not achieved in a test or at sport, parents should ask why. It may just be as simple as not enough learning or a lack of interest in the sport; or else they

need to face the hard fact that somebody else is better than they are. A hard fact to learn but a lesson well learnt – that the world is full of people who are better than we are and, even if we are at the very top, we may not stay there for long as somebody else will try to fill our spot.

HAVING A VISION

Successfully nurturing…

Teaching our children to have flexibility of thinking, able to switch from one idea to another, will help to sort out issues quickly. Working with this tool will allow them to bounce back from a difficult situation without suffering too much ‘hurt’. Each child needs a sense of vision and purpose as well as self-awareness and the knowledge that not everybody is going to be the top person in this world. When a child has learnt to verbalise their feelings, they can identify, name, own and manage them.

• Creativity

• Friendship

• The senses

• Movement & grace

• Imagination and play • The thinking brain

• Problem solving skills • Independence

TEACHING RESPONSIBILITY

A child needs to be able to deal with the consequences of their actions. For example if they leave their PE (Physical Education) togs at home; or they forget their jersey after repeated reminders. Don’t run to school to drop it off – your children will have learnt nothing. Let them get cold for the day – they will survive – and the next time they will remember to take a jersey. These are small things but they teach our children huge lessons. When upsets happen in the playground, by all means chat to your child but let them sort it out using the management skills you have taught them and take a step back. Happy talking!  By Carol Booth. Principal of Cannons Creek Independent School.

• Philanthropy

• Care for the environment & self

Age: 2 - 5 years Don’t miss out!

Enrol for 2016 now as numbers are limited Lara Rule 074 467 3002

lara@learnandgrow.co.za

www.learnandgrow.co.za

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PINELANDS NORTH PRIMARY SCHOOL EXCELLENT STAFF MOTIVATED PUPILS INVOLVED FAMILIES

working together to provide an inclusive, quality education! Richmond Ave, Pinelands

Happy and safe, yet stimulating, co-educational learning environment Vibrant team of committed and innovative teachers Enhanced curriculum In-house learning support and enrichment programme

021 531 3414

Wide range of extramural activities

www.pnps.co.za

Nurturing aftercare facilities

admin@pnps.co.za

Outstanding art & music department

NEW GRADE R CLASSES! Grade R is an important step in your child’s school career. It is his or her introduction to formal schooling and the foundation upon which a process of lifelong learning is built. Grade R teaches important skills, not only academic ones like literacy and numeracy, but also life skills. Grade R prepares your child for primary school but also focuses on your child’s social and emotional development. There is a strong emphasis on learning through play, learning how to socialise with friends, discovering every child’s particular strengths and developing a positive attitude towards learning.

Pinelands North Primary School, together with Red Roots, will be offering places in two new Grade R classes starting in January 2017!

EDUCATION & CHILDCARE

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muse

community magazine pg12

SPECIAL FEATURE

A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO EDUCATION By Debbie van der Waag Ready, Steady, Grow

You might well ask what Larry Page, Sergey Brin, Jeff Bezos, Prince William and Anne Frank have in common? They were all at Montessori Schools. So what is this “Montessori” we all hear about? Montessori is a philosophy of child development, a scientific method of education and an approach to children that helps them maximize their full potential. In a Montessori classroom, each child works at their own pace within a mixed age group 0-3 years, 3-6 years, 6-9 years, 12-15 years and 15-18 years. The Montessori Prepared Environment is a specially prepared learning environment that should be neat, ordered and equipped with Montessori equipment and materials. These are accessible to the children at their height. There are 5 areas of learning, Practical Life: incorporating care of self, care of the environment, grace and courtesy and activities for daily living. Sensorial: featuring a wealth of materials and sensory experiences to stimulate and develop the sensory skills which is a

prerequisite for mathematics. Mathematics: the children start learning about mathematics first with physical materials, then to the use of abstract techniques. Language: the children are provided with experiences in oral language, phonics, reading and writing. Culture: incorporating the sciences, music and art. So what does a Montessori Environment look like? It is peaceful, attractive, homely and inviting. There is mutual respect between the children and the adults. There are no systems of rewards and punishment. Children can be seen assisting, teaching and motivating each other. The adults are hands-on and do not ‘teach’, but guide and encourage. Montessori is an education for life! “Free the child’s potential and you will transform him into the world” – Maria Montessori 1870-1952 

ST GEORGE’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOUNDED 1848

APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN FOR 2017 Looking for a thriving, diverse, challenging and caring environment for your child? Then visit St George’s Grammar School to experience the school in action. St George’s offers: Co-education | Small Classes | Aftercare One Campus from Pre-Primary to Matric Contact us now!

For more information / application forms or to visit our vibrant campus, please email Sheryl on admissions@sggs.co.za Richmond Road, Mowbray | 021 689 9354 | www.sggs.co.za

Embracing diversity, igniting growth

Above: Madison Bagley showing the individual work and concentration of a child in a Montessori environment. The piece of equipment that she is using is the “Trinomial Cube”. Introduction for algebra and preparation for the proof of the formula (a+b+c)3 at Elementary Level.

muse EDUCATION & CHILDCARE the community magazine pg13 WHAT DOES HERITAGE DAY MEAN TO YOU?

“Heritage Day on 24 September recognises and celebrates the cultural wealth of our nation. South Africans celebrate the day by remembering the cultural heritage of the many cultures that make up the population of South Africa.” Why is our heritage important enough to warrant a public holiday? I asked my classes how important Heritage Day was to them. Most were grateful for the public holiday, but didn’t know what it was about, or value it much; rating it a 3/10 in importance. When they found out it was also known as Braai Day, it deserved a 7/10! Our national, cultural, and family heritage is important. It give us recipes to relish and dances to delight in; advantages to appreciate or difficulties to defeat; examples to emulate and even slip-ups to side-step. In short, our heritage shapes us, for better or worse. How my heritage affected my love life… Christmas Day, 1995 – Awkward! On hearing that my 17 year old English speaking girlfriend was heading overseas

as a missionary the following year, my Ouma said to her, “Well my dear, maybe you’ll meet an American and marry him.” The message was clear: English speaker, you are not good enough for my grandson. My Ouma's heritage left her with a dislike for English speaking people. Her family had lost everything… twice. First during the South African War (18991902): The British burnt the family farm, killed the cattle, killed or imprisoned the men and interred the women and children in concentration camps. The second time was during the 1914 Afrikaner Rebellion when her family had tried to join German South West Africa in the fight against the 'rooinekke'. They were captured, tried, had lost their farm again and become destitute. Her unforgiveness toward the English would simmer unseen and then surface if politics came up or if the Proteas or the Bokke lost to the English (Jean De Villiers was her favourite! “So ‘n aangename jong man”). Overcoming our past My girlfriend did go overseas and she did meet an American. But she married me. My Ouma learnt to love my wife and my children. Her willingness to change and forgive is forever a part of our family heritage. Sharing our different cultural heritages My family has quite a diverse heritage from the Afrikaner and English stock on both sides of the Boer War battlefield, to our French and German ancestors (who also fought a lot). The adoption of our two children means we now celebrate Xhosa and Shona heritage as well. On 24 September we’ll be eating shisa nyama around an open fire and celebrating with other families for whom adoption is now a part of their family heritage. By Hein Joubert, Cannons Creek Independent School. www.gov.za/heritage-day-2015. 

CANNONS CREEK INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

READY, STEADY, GROW!

MONTESSORI Ages 0 – 5 years 7:30am - 5:30pm

GROWING CONFIDENT CHILDREN since 1998

Registration now open for 2016

INDIVIDUAL, GROUP & CREATIVE ACTIVITIES Outside Play · Story Time · Playball · Music · Little Muso’s CALL DEBBIE · 021 531 7372 · 083 324 9204

www.ready-steady-grow.co.za

CANNONS CARNIVAL

OUDE MOLEN

ACADEMY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Powerhouse of Engineering Education Want to be a Scientist, Architect, Technician, Engineer, Artisan …

Make the right start! We have places in Grades 8, 9 & 10.

OPEN DAY

Apply Now!

5 Sept 2015 09:00-12:00

Jan Smuts Drive, Pinelands

PHONE 021 531 2108

admin@oudemolen.org.za www.oudemolen.org.za

THE BEST KEPT SECRET IN PINELANDS “A high school specialising in English, Physical Sciences, Mathematics and Technology in Pinelands? You’ve got me… Let me think… Oh, you mean the Technical High School?” Well, Yes, but, actually: No! Technical High Schools are so 20th Century!

OUDE MOLEN IS A STEAM SCHOOL! We focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics. Despite the many changes to the school curriculum, people can be forgiven for thinking the old Technical High is still the same. You may be surprised to hear that Oude Molen is widely acknowledged as the WCED’s best engineering focus school, that we offer a “Can do” approach to life, for girls too, and that we have some of the best teaching support technology available to prepare youngsters for further studies and careers. What’s great at Oude Molen is the diversity we prize, dedicated staff, smart learners, the engineering curriculum, co-curricular activities and opportunities for leadership. We attract youngsters from many primary schools and commuting teaches street smarts too: proper planning, accepting responsibility and being Proudly Oude Molen.

An holistic education for responsible citizenship and rewarding careers: that’s what Oude Molen offers. It’s time to share the secret!

www.oudemolen.org.za

Sans Souci

muse EDUCATION & CHILDCARE the community magazine pg14

Girls’ High School Newlands

READING BEARS FRUIT

PRIZE GIVING AT THE PINELANDS LIBRARY

A Public School with outstanding results Limited Scholarships are available for good all-rounders, gifted in one of the Arts, and with an aggregate of over 75% admissions@sanssouci.co.za www.sanssouci.co.za 021 671 7188

Kids @ home

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19/08/2015 1:24 PM

Kids@home • Early Learning Centre

We are a home based pre-school in Pinelands. We offer care to children aged 3-6 years (Gr 000 – Gr R)

We strive to create a safe, happy, stimulating environment in which our children can develop their early learning skills through assisted educational activities and play.

We are currently accepting applications for 2017 & 2018 Contact Sharon Gray

call 021 5311533

sharon@kidsathome.co.za

The annual Pinelands Library Holiday Reading program entitled "Reading Bears Fruit" culminated in a prize giving event on Saturday 15 August. 63 participants aged between 6 and 13 years registered for the program which ran from June 22 to July 27. Librarian Gillian Haiden says the number of children who participated is up from last year when 44 children registered. Gillian explained how the holiday reading program works: children are encouraged to join the library and using their own library card, take out and read at least five age appropriate books. The librarians prepared the reading lists and asked the children about the stories they had read when the books were returned. 29 entrants to the competition received certificates of achievement. In the 6 year old age group the winner, Michael Sparks, read an astonishing 87 books. Aarti Ranjit won the 8 to 10 year old

STRUGGLING WITH PHYSICS OR CHEMISTRY?

Get expert one-to-one private tuition in Physical Sciences Brian Jacoby is an experienced Physical Sciences teacher who quickly diagnoses problems with science and provides appropriate and successful remedial tuition.

Tutorial services for Based in Grades 8 - 12 learners Pinelands For an appointment b.jacoby@telkomsa.net CALL: 021 531 8520 • 082 684 7405

Above: Competition winners and runners up with the library staff. Back row: (Guests and Staff) Thando Mkoyi, Samantha Christians, Gillian Haiden, Valencia Sinclair, Candice Booysen, Adelia Delmore, Smangele Mathebula. Front row (prize-winners): Aarti Ranjit, Michael Sparks, Mia De Goede, Zara Nijzink-Laurie, Anna Gibbon, Ryan Gibbon. Left: Friends of the Library Robin and Cynthia Lake.

age group by reading 59 books; and Mia de Goede won the 11 to 13 year age group after reading 32 books. Head Librarian Samantha Christians welcomed the guests with the quote: “There are many ways to enlarge your child’s world. Love of books is the best of all” – Jacqueline Kennedy. The children benefit from the stimulation and self discovery through reading. Long time supporters of the library Robin and Cynthia Lake, Friends of the Library, were thanked for their contribution to the reading program which is now in its fifth year. They bid a sad farewell to Pinelands and the library as they make their way to a new home in Natal. Award winning guests Thando Mkoyi and Smangele Mathebula from Nali'Bali a reading program that is instrumental in helping children to develop a love for reading, presented the prizes. 

MONTESSORI TEACHER TRAINING

Interested in a teaching career?

REGISTRATIONS

Train to work with: NOW OPEN FOR 2016!! 3 – 6 year olds (National Diploma Level 5 in ECD) 0 – 3 year olds (Montessori Toddler Certificate) Ist floor, 28 Main Road Tel: 021 685 8119 Mowbray, Cape Town elfsecretary@gmail.com (opp UCT ICTS Building) www.elfmontessori.co.za

PINELANDERS A frightening brush with death motivated Sue to pull all the threads of her life together - to rediscover her soul, change her lifestyle and find work where she could thrive. She acknowledges the many, many blessings from family, friends and complete strangers during her experience; and is very grateful for their support. For her fiftieth birthday she celebrated by hosting a fund raiser for the Sunflower Fund.

SUE LE ROUX

I was hoping that my party would raise awareness and encourage people to become bone marrow donors – and to raise funds for the organisation to do the testing required when immunological matches need to be found. We supported a youngster from Westerford High School who needed a bone marrow transplant; and my critical illness was motivation too – as I felt I was given a second chance in life.

WHAT WAS THE EXPERIENCE THAT TURNED YOUR LIFE UPSIDE DOWN?

I was born in Pinelands and after training as a nurse I followed many different working paths including working for a pathology group, and working at the Deckle Edge satisfying my artistic side. Thereafter, while working as a medical rep, I fell ill during a business trip to Thailand, where I was admitted to the International Hospital late at night.

SHOCKING TEST RESULTS

After every test in the book including MRI, X-ray and a gastroscopy, I was diagnosed with cancer of the bowel which had metastasised to the liver and lymph nodes. The hospital in Thailand was beautiful, as were the nurses – but English was hardly spoken and I found it hard to believe this dire news! Thank goodness I could contact a South African gastroenterologist for advice.

September 2015 | the muse | 15

TRAUMATIC JOURNEY BACK TO SA

My medical travel insurance was a God send. They arranged for business class passage and a doctor to accompany me back home on the plane, supplying morphine when needed.

SURGERY BACK HOME

Back in South Africa I made contact with a doctor I had previously worked with. He convinced me that I needed surgery immediately. I now have one quarter of my bowel, 12 fewer lymph nodes – and some of my liver was removed. Chemotherapy finished off the treatment – and although it was a very hard time to cope with - still having two children at home – I am pleased to say that I am well again, clear of the cancer for over a year, and working at a job that I love. My son André has his first degree in architecture and is now working; my daughter Christine is studying fine art at Michaelis.

TELL US ABOUT THE PARTY

2013 was a traumatic year but it had many silver linings, many synchronicities, chance meetings and amazing angels that kept my spirit alive and my health on track. It is a miracle that I am here and I felt I needed to celebrate being alive with a big fat, hippie themed party. Adi Phillips of the Sunflower Fund helped with some ideas and donated bandanas for my party packs, and banners

to decorate the Pinelands Club Hall - which was given at a special price. Other generous donors included the Justice Blues Band, Fabian from Cape Lasers, Sostanza Coffee Bistro, Frimax Foods and Moo's Frozen Diary Dessert. It was such a wonderful evening with all the people that I love, all the people that have stood by me through my terrible ordeal. At the party we had a bone marrow donor and his recipient (his sister). David donated bone marrow to his sister 17 years ago and because of that we have had Wendy in our lives to make and share many more memories with us. We raised R18 000 for the Sunflower Fund!

ADVICE FOR COPING WITH TOUGH TIMES

Talk about it. Live in the moment. Don't dwell on the 'drama' of the situation. Remember that people like to be able to help and support you. Try and keep a sense of humour. Remind your friends to tell you the "good" stories to keep your hope alive. Invest in a good medical travel insurance.

THE SUNFLOWER FUND

The Sunflower fund is a registered Nonprofit company, founded to increase the number of donors in the bone marrow registry – needed to treat life threatening conditions. Can you donate to save a life? Call 0800 121 082 or email cheryl@ sunflowerfund.org.za. Look out for National Bandana Day on 12 October. 

www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

Interview: Glynnis Schutte Image: Glynnis Schutte

WHY THE SUNFLOWER FUND?

TRAVELLERS

MOUNT KILIMANJARO By André Reyneke of Montagu Fruit and Nuts PREPARATION FOR THE CLIMB

Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa and the highest free standing mountain in the world, is situated in Tanzania and was the playground of 8 hikers from the Cape Town area from 1 to 6 July. The 8 hikers, André Reyneke, Murray le Roux, Sanet Kotzé, Laetitia Schreuder, Tiaan Schreuder, Annie Sun, Murray le Roux jr and Johan Smit were well prepared because they have been hiking almost every weekend since the beginning of 2015. But still, at 5 895 metres above sea level, Kilimanjaro offered a huge challenge in terms of altitude sickness and temperatures as low as –10 0C .

THE RONGAI ROUTE FROM THE NORTH

Mount Kilimanjaro has various routes to the summit, but the Rongai Route which the hikers took is the only route which starts from the Northern side of the mountain. It is a six day hike from the bottom to the top and back again. The golden rule while hiking, revolves around the words “polepole”, Swahili for “slowly-slowly”. There is nothing fast about climbing Kilimanjaro, since the ultimate goal is to reach the top, and not to see who can reach it the fastest. The only way to acclimatise is to do it slowly, otherwise it will be turning back for any hiker on day three or four already.

FROM LUSH BEAUTY TO BARREN DESERT

The first part of the hike is through beautiful forests with lots of monkeys, birds and other small animals. As the days progress, the landscape changes dramatically until one finds no vegetation in

an area called the Alpine Desert. It took the hikers four days to reach Kibo hut, which is base camp before the summit. Kibo is 4 720 metres above sea level, and the group arrived here at 4pm of day four. They had dinner and went to sleep. At 11pm they woke up, had 'breakfast' and started for the summit at 00:30am.

KIBO TO UHURU PEAK

This was by far the most difficult part, with extremely slow walking and –10 0C temperatures around 4am in the morning. Not only does it take a good amount of fitness to reach the summit at Uhuru peak, but also a good and focussed head and a lot of faith. The guides would constantly encourage and help with the words “pole-pole” and “Hakuna Matata” (“No Worries”), and helped to carry the bags at places if necessary. At 10am the group reached Uhuru peak. This is one of the most fulfilling experiences in life, reaching a goal that you have been working for and looking forward to for so long.

QUICKLY BACK DOWN TO LOWER ALTITUDE

Shortly after 10am they started walking downhill again and reached base camp at 2pm. They slept for an hour, had dinner and walked for another four hours to the next camp to get as low as possible in order for their bodies to recover quickly.

KILIMANJARO HIKERS DO IT FOR CHARITY

All in all, this remains the experience of a lifetime, and the whole group is ready to do it all over in a year or two’s time. The 8 hikers dedicated this effort to raise awareness and funds for the Little Fighter Cancer Trust, an organisation offering support to families affected by cancer, as well as raising awareness for cancer at an early stage of development. 

Main picture above: "A loo with a view" on the hike up Mt Kilimanjaro. Left top: André Reyneke pointing to the top of Mt Kilimanjaro showing the long hike ahead. Left middle: The receding glaciers have been affected by both climate change and land use. It is estimated that most of the ice will disappear by 2040. Left Bottom: The triumphant group of hikers at the Uhuru Peak.

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