the Muse - Jun 2018 by the Muse magazine by Pinelands Directory

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www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

PINELANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE issue

85 | June 2018

TANIA WILLIAMS Gymnastics expert CHRIS & PRISCILLA SMITH Encouraging positivity LAMB Heleen SHANKS Meyer

GOLD COAST Community GAMES 2018 Travellers

DYLAN LEWIS Out and SCULPTURES About

HelenKeller S O C I E T Y E S T. 1 9 5 8 Retirement Centre and Low Vision Services

A Happy Community Enjoy your retirement in a tranquil garden setting

A Caring Community Caring for retired and visually impaired persons

A Well-maintained Infrastructure With competent staff and management

Services Include: Independent living Assisted living Full nursing care Low vision services (by appointment)

BREAKING NEWS! The Society is preparing to celebrate its 60th year in aged care

OPEN AFTERNOONS FOR VIEWING

3rd Tuesday each month at 3pm Contact Matron Jackie

www.helenkeller.org.za

The Society has also opened its new life care contracts waiting list. These contracts are available on a refundable basis with capital costs ranging from R500 000 to R960 000. Links Drive, Pinelands, Cape Town, 7405 Private Bag X25, Howard Place, 7450 Phone 021 531 5311 during office hours E-mail management@helenkeller.org.za

WELCOME

Image by Steve Mills

About the Cover: Cast, director and musical director of The Full Monty presented by Pinelands Players who celebrate 70 years. See page: 11. Left: Max Schutte in one of the studios at the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Gardens. See Out and About Page 9.

Giant Kingfisher

WINTER MUSINGS - RAIN, SPORT AND THE THEATRE Rainfall this early winter season has been meagre so far. We watch the forecasts quite carefully, especially as the Muse delivery week approaches and the rain has been consistently over-promised and under-delivered. That is a worry as it it looks like another below average winter rainfall. We can at least enjoy a bit of green on our lawns and a perking up of our struggling plants with the light relief we have had. For some, the highlight of this winter will be the Soccer World Cup in Russia which starts on 14 June. Sadly, there will be no local team to cheer on at this tournament. We will have to pin our African hopes on the plucky Senegalese team or hope for Nigeria to come good. We will have to wait for the Cricket and Rugby World Cups next year for some local flavour. On the sporting theme, this month we have quite a few stories of Pinelanders excelling in their fields, from fencing to hockey and gymnastics. There is also a bit of an acting theme this month. The venerable Pinelands Players, with a long history of theatre productions around Cape Town, are celebrating their 70th anniversary this year. They have come a long way since their beginning in the St Stephens Church hall. We have also been privileged to attend many school theatrical productions over the past few years, and I can say that they have also come a long way since my school days! There have been many ambitious and memorable shows and some outstanding young stars who could go far if they choose to take up this profession. Wafika Sidwaba has amused us in the plays we have seen and is aiming to make it to the big time in the USA later this year. Last week we also attended a variety show at Cannons Creek with outstanding musical and theatrical pieces. The evening was finished off with a spectacular rendition of Barcelona with Nicola de Jager and Will O'Carroll displaying operatic finesse, not forgetting the perfect piano and flute accompaniment by Yeji Lee and Julia Lee and the backing singers. Bravo! Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballé would have been proud. I hope you enjoy the edition!

Max Schutte Editor and Advertising

Writer and Photographer

Max Schutte

Glynnis Schutte

CONTACT THE MUSE MAGAZINE t 021 531 3324 c 073 644 1288 e muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za p The Muse, 12 Rhone, Pinelands, 7450 NEXT EDITION DEADLINES 086 • July 2018 Bookings: 11 Jun Published: 26 Jun 2018 Content: 15 Jun

View the Rate Card on our website: www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

for advertising details, deadlines, artwork requirements, circulation information and publication schedules. Your news, photographs and stories 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.

© 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.

June 2018 | the muse | 1

The largest of the local kingfishers. The male and females have the same colouring but in slightly different sequence. They are black, white and ruffous (reddish-brown), with the male having the ruffous on the upper half of the chest and the female having the ruffous on the lower half. As with the Pied Kingfisher, they are found on rivers, streams, lakes and coastal shorelines. The call is a loud “kek-kek-kek-kek”. They are also known to hover before plunging into the water to catch their prey. They nest in tunnels excavated in a bank close to the water’s edge. This tunnel is excavated by both male and females. Text written by John McFarlane from Pinewood Village, Pinelands. Cape Bird Club member and a keen birder for 30 years, John has followed his birding passion through South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. "Being retired makes it easier to get away" he says. See www.capebirdclub.org.za.

BUYING SELLING LETTING PINELANDS, THORNTON and surrounding areas

Gavin McDougall 061 076 1481 We strive to be good to all, and good at what we do! Contact us for a free CMA valuation www.opendoorproperties.co.za info@opendoorproperties.co.za

June 2018 | the muse | 2

2 June 2018

June Breakfast Special

Now R41

English

CRAFTERS SELECTION DAY

Cypriot

Booking for the selection day on 2 June in the Kent Hall Foyer, between 9am and 11am, at Pinelands High School, is essential for crafters wishing to have a place at the Pinelands Craft and Gift Fair 2018 (3 - 22 December). Call Jenni Brassington 0826616080.

was R45.90

Both served with toast & jam

Served all day

BREAKFASTS • LUNCHES • FROZEN MEALS HOURS

Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 5pm Saturday: 8:00am - 1pm

Millside Park, Morningside, Ndabeni Free deliveries from 9am - 3pm • Mon - Fri 021 531 6398 | 082 926 1361 for orders over R30

www.goodys.co.za

to surrounding areas

C ANNO N S C REEK INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

085.indd 1

2018/05/22

Christmas in July Date: Saturday 28th of July Venue: Nursery Way, Pinelands at Cannons Cultural Centre Cost: R295/per person which includes a 3 course meal Time: 19h00 for 19h30 Please bring along your own drinks. As part of our fundraising we would like to give back to the community and support a child in need so please bring along a gift clearly marked in blue or pink with the child’s age please. Queries: cannonsevents@gmail.com Tickets will be available for purchasing on https://www.quicket.co.za/ events/34613-christmas-in-july/

COMMUNITY CALENDAR 16 June 2018

PINELANDS PLAYERS CELEBRATE 70!

Snacks, champagne and a walk down memory lane from 7:30pm at the Pinelands Town Hall. R150 pp. Book at pinelandsplayers@gmail.com.

6 June 2018

18 June 2018

Join the Pinelands Library adult social group in the committee room at 10am, for Be-a-MUSE-d with Max & Glynnis Schutte. All welcome. Call Brenda 021 530 7160.

The annual Pinelands Library Reading Programme for 7 to 12 year olds develops a love for books and reading. This year the slogan is “Reading is magical @ Pinelands Library”. Sign up from Monday, 18 June, and over a 5-week period discover that magic! Visit the Library or call 021 530 7160.

HAPPY HOUR @PINELANDS LIBRARY

9 June 2018

DANCE CO PINELANDS DANCE DEMO

Come to Pinehurst Primary School at 3pm for the Junior dance demo (4 years to 14 years). At 6pm see the Seniors dance demo (from 14 years). Modern, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop and Dance Fitness. Tickets R50, at 9:36 AM the door. See www.dancecocapetown.co.za. Call 021 531 8976 or 083 273 2159.

16 June 2018

SAPS YOUTH DAY EVENT

Come to the WP SAPS Rugby Sports Club Pinelands on Jan Smuts Drive (opposite Oude Molen Technical School), at 9am for a fun day aimed at reconnecting the community with SAPS and towards raising funds for the refurbishment of the Rugby Sports Club. There will be live music, comedians, Zorb balls, drone exhibitions, an animal touch farm, motocross rides and more... Don't miss prizes, surprises and give-aways - also food-trucks, market stalls and a beer garden.

LIBRARY READING PROGRAMME

21 June 2018

SAVE A LIFE - DONATE BLOOD

Give 30 minutes of your time at the next blood donation clinic at St Stephen's Church Main Hall, at Central Square Pinelands, from 3pm to 7:15pm. Clinic dates sometimes change call 021 507 6300 to confirm.

27 June 2018

PINELANDS STAMP CIRCLE

Meet at 7:15pm in the activities hall of the Pinelands Library, for a “Family History” evening. We will also have a Workshop. Tell us if there are topics that interest you. Call John 021 531 1954 or Martin 021 689 5050.

28 July 2018

CANNONS CREEK CHRISTMAS IN JULY

Have some fun and support children in need. See full size advert on this page or go to www.cannonscreek.co.za.

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! email muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za.

Send content for the July 2018 edition by 15 Jun 2018. R120 ensures placement in the calendar.

IridescenceNow_Muse-70x99mm fnl-PRINT.pdf 1 5/14/2018 2:15:10 PM

www.cannonscreek.co.za

Tony’s

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. FOUNTAIN PENS, PEN-KNIVES Yes, I buy AND EVEN BROKEN WATCHES them too!

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

AWESOME BIRTHDAY PARTIES

GYM WIZARDS

Give your child and their friends an awesome birthday bash with full run of the trampolines and the airtrack at our dedicated gymnasium. Dedicated gym for 2 hours of non-stop fun Instructor-led games, music & fun gymnastics Activities especially for your boy or girl AGES No worry about set-up or clean-up 4 - 10 Minimum 10 kids, maximum 20

Parties can be booked on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays from 2pm and on Sundays

Unit G8, Sunrise Park, Prestige Drive, Ndabeni Call or Email Us

021 532 1832

admin@gymwizards.co.za

to book your space and to find out more! www.gymwizards.co.za

Like deep roots,

INTEGRITY

is the foundation upon which trust grows

Kathy Anderson 083 987 7673 kathy.anderson@seeff.com

Removing one’s emotions when selling your property is always hard. It is where you have probably spent much of your life and created some of your most treasured memories. That is why the relationship and trust you have with your agent is often as important as the price. One of our core values is Integrity and we pride ourselves that we have an outstanding group of agents in our company who live by those values. Both Kathy and Julie are born and bred Pinelanders, growing up in homes where parents were in Real Estate. With more than 15 years of experience and sales in excess of R35m to date this year, despite a subdued market, the comments from clients are a testament to their commitment and successes.

Julie Meyer 083 288 8481

julie.meyer@seeff.com CLIENT COMMENTS “I enlisted the help of Seeff to see what price I might get for an investment flat I own. Kathy and Julie were flexible with sole mandate timelines and the showing process. The property was on the market for exactly one day and they brought me an offer which matched exactly the number I had asked for, no haggling on their part. Great service from a team that knows what they are doing.” Riverplace Mews “Julie has been AWESOME in handling the entire sales process. She is such a great person to deal with and is always obliging to assist no matter the day nor hour. She is an incredible asset to the Seeff Sales team. I commend her for putting up with our hundreds of requests that she smilingly and patiently accommodated. It is truly appreciated.” 20 Mareola Way

UNDER OFFER *R6.495m

SOLD IN 4 DAYS

So we invite you to choose agents with values that you can identify with, who will be honest about the value of your home, and who, with a positive attitude, will achieve the best possible selling price in the time available to sell.

If you are considering selling give us a call for a free valuation and advice.

SOLD IN 11 DAYS

M5 GYM WIZARDS Expertise Built Through Generations of Trust

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

SeeffPinelands

COMMUNITY NEWS

June 2018 | the muse | 4

Cnr Old Mill Road & Morningside, Ndabeni CALL 021 531 4061 · sebrahim@telkomsa.net ICING SUGAR

ROLLED OATS

R19

R14 per kg

per kg

SUGAR BEANS

NPS RAW ALMONDS

R19

per 500g

R179 per kg

LIBERTY COCONUT MILK

BLACK CAT PEANUT BUTTER

R12

per 400ml

CHEF EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

R99

per litre

R49 per 800g

MIGUEL REBELO OF PINELANDS HIGH SCHOOL PREPARES TO REPRESENT SA AT THE JUNIOR COMMONWEALTH GAMES

DRIED CRANBERRIES 50

R89 per kg

Prices valid until 16 June 2018 Nuts • Sweets • Chocolates • Dried Fruit • Seeds Baking Products • Spices • Lentils • Chickpeas Soya Beans • Cous-Cous • Rolled Oats • Oat Bran Soy Milk Powder • Polenta • Millet • Potato Flour Rice Flour • Rye Flour • Chick Pea Flour • Soya Flour

TRADING HOURS

Mon - Thu: 08:30 - 17:00 Friday: 08:30 - 12:30 Saturdays: 09:00 - 12:30 14:00 - 16:30 Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays

-M4-085.indd 1

Pinelands High School’s Miguel Rebelo has been selected to represent South Africa at the Junior Commonwealth Games in Newcastle, England, from 23 to 30 July this year. Miguel competes in the U17 age group, facing fencers much older than himself and who have more experience. He has taken part in various National Championships around South Africa over the past 12 months, achieving the necessary points to qualify for an International World Championship and is now ranked as one of

the best U17 fencers in South Africa. He will join the South African Junior Commonwealth team, comprising sports recognized by the World Olympic Federation and success at this tournament could lead to an invitation to the Junior Olympic Games. Miguel is currently in good form having just won a Gold Medal in the recent InterCape Fencing Competition. Pinelands High School is extremely proud of Miguel for this hard work and dedication which has led to this prestigious honour.

2018/05/21 10:31 AM

GREENSIDE SERVICE STATION

ADVICE FOR HAPPY MOTORING Motor vehicles are wonderful to have until they need repairing and servicing which has become a little more expensive over the years. We learn something new every day about motor vehicles at GREENSIDE TOTAL. One thing for sure that is increasing the cost of maintaining your vehicle is the extending of service intervals from 10 000 km to 15 000 km or 20 000 km intervals. This may be fine with brand new vehicles, but with over 70 000 km on the clock, you start to get a sludge build-up in the oil, which can cause poor oil circulation in the motor and, in more severe cases, can block the oil pick-up in the engine sump which then starves the motor’s moving parts of oil. This is dangerous. Good quality, clean oil is the first and best way to extend the life of your engine. We recommend that you service your vehicle every 10 000 km, or at least once a year. Another advantage is that your vehicle will be checked more regularly by a qualified technician who can advise you of anything else going wrong which, if caught early, usually costs far less to fix than when your car finally breaks down. Don’t ignore a small leak in the radiator. It could cause you to get stuck in our mad traffic jams and cause your engine to overheat, resulting in very costly repairs, plus the inconvenience of being without your car for a few days. It is vital to replace the timing belt at the manufacturer’s recommended kilometre reading to prevent serious engine damage.

Our staff at Greenside Total are well qualified to help you with your motoring needs and queries. We operate a modern, well-equipped workshop and have diagnostic equipment to work on most vehicles.

We thank our wonderful customers for their ongoing support over the years and can assure you that we will continue to give you our best attention at all times.

021 531 7592 • 43 Morningside, Ndabeni MAINTAINING THE VALUE OF YOUR VEHICLE

The first thing buyers check are the service books and ask if your vehicle has had its regular services and recorded what repairs have been done.

KEEP YOUR PAINTWORK LOOKING GOOD

Have your car washed from time to time. Unwashed cars end up with damaged paintwork which, if left too long, can cost you a compound treatment or, even worse, a respray. Greenside has an excellent car wash and also offers a special super wax treatment to make your vehicle look great.

BUYING OR SELLING YOUR WHEELS?

FULL VALET FOR CARS Vacuum, Wash & Wax FOR R195

Selling your car privately is not for the faint-hearted! NEVER be on your own when selling to a stranger - you could end up giving your car away. At Greenside we can assist you to sell your car and will do our best to get the best price. We charge a commission which depends on the selling price. We also sell quality cars which have been thoroughly checked by our excellent workshop staff before selling.

VOUCHERS TO USE AT GREENSIDE TOTAL

25% OFF ANY CAR WASH OPTION Keep your car looking good!

FREE TYRE SAFETY CHECK

Rains are on the way! For your safety you need good treads!

valid until 30 June 2018

POLISHED HEADLIGHT LENSES

Improve light brightness and improve visibility by up to 50%. SPECIAL: R250 for both Lights

Maynard Burgoyne COMMUNITY NEWS

COMPUTER OLYMPIAD BOFFINS

Pinelands T 021 531 3041

sales.pinelands@harcourts.co.za

We offer FREE, no obligation, valuations for both sales and rentals. Call us today! FOR SALE

FOR SALE

Back row: Huw Irlam (Gold), Christopher Hawker-Jehring (Silver). Front row: Imaad Faki (Gold). Pinelands High School is proud of the excellent performances of the students who took part in the annual Computer Olympiad. The Computer Olympiad is the South African version of the Bebras Contest which attracts more than a million participants from across the world. The contest requires the skills of computational thinking, the same used for Mathematics, Science, IT and CAT. These problem solving techniques are used by Software Engineers to write programs and apps. Pinelands High School had 3 students placed in the top achievers; 2 Gold (better than 93% of all participants countrywide) and 1 Silver (better than 79% of all participants countrywide) winners.

STARS OF THE CANNONS CREEK CULTURAL SHOWCASE

Thornton

*R1,355,000

Thornton

FOR SALE

Thornton

SOLD

*R1,149,000

SOLD

Pinelands

*R1,295,000

Thornton

*R1,929,000

TO RENT

*R1,050,000

Newlands Upper *R65,000pm

*R17,500pm

Love your Home

TO RENT

Pinelands

*asking price

An evening of beautiful music and theatrical one act plays (some very amusing) culminated in a breathtaking rendition of Barcelona (Freddie Mercury and Mike Moran). Outstanding soloists Nicola de Jager and Will O'Carroll, seen above, with good supporting singers and musicians were given a standing ovation for their beautiful presentation of a difficult piece.

June 2018 | the muse | 5

Quentin Jute

Intern Sales Specialist

C 082 864 8708

maynard.harcourts.co.za

Mearle May

Intern Rental Specialist

C 079 021 6810

Experts in home finance.

PRINCIPAL'S ARICLE By Julian Cameron Head St George's Grammar School

LET’S REFLECT ON WhatsApp GROUPS IN SCHOOLS THE VARIETY OF WHATSAPP GROUPS

Over the past few weeks I’ve found myself in different contexts listening to people discussing some of the joys and tribulations of WhatsApp groups in schools. It would appear that different schools and communities have different approaches and solutions to the situation and also that many people put themselves at significant risk without realising it. Some school-based WhatsApp groups involve pupils only, others involve parents only, some include parents and teachers and others contain pupils and teachers. Some groups cater for a particular sports team or activity, while others have a homework or subject specific focus. While I don’t profess to be an expert on these matters, I invite you to pause for a few minutes and consider some of the benefits and risks of the various types of groups. Pupil only groups: have the advantage of facilitating easy and convenient exchanges of information and entertainment. Some of the risks include children being exposed to inappropriate content or comments from peers, hurtful exchanges, bullying or other situations which may leave them uncomfortable. Parents do, I believe, have a responsibility to oversee such groups and social media activity and ensure that their child is well-informed of the risks and that their child’s online behaviour is appropriate at all times. Parent only groups: such as “ABC School’s Grade 4B Parents” may seem innocuous at first glance, and may facilitate quick and easy communication between parents. They may provide a forum for parents to air concerns and frustrations, gather information from each other, inform each other of lost property and so on. Such groups become risky when any one parent posts information that may be untrue or provides content or opinions that may be unacceptable. When parent X posts something that is politically

www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

controversial, crude, offensive, sexist, racist, anti-Semitic or similarly offensive and unacceptable, it is important to realise that (a) the school community is negatively impacted (reputation, damage to relationships within the community, etc) and (b) any member of the group who does not actively distance themselves from the inappropriate comment or content is implicated in the unacceptable behaviour. Parents in such groups who post comments about the perceived incompetence or ineffectiveness of a teacher or dismay at the way a situation was handled at the school run the risk of being accused of defamation or reputational damage by the teacher or staff member concerned. Such groups are, after all public spaces. Parents also often forget that their children are inquisitive and may, from time to time pick up the parent’s phone and scroll through messages. Any message posted on such groups (or any other social media channel) is thus vulnerable to being seen by a child, or screenshot and forwarded to many other people. Homework groups/subject groups/class groups: There’s no denying that it is convenient for parents and pupils to be able to enquire in a group about the homework set, cost of next week’s outing to the museum, deadline for the geography project and so on. Many an early morning crisis has probably been prevented by these channels. An important question to ask, however, is whether such groups are really in the best long term interests of the pupils. Children may formulate thoughts such as “If dad will post a question on the group for me to find out the homework, or to get a photo of the task instructions which I left at school, is there really a need for me to improve my diary keeping skills or organisational skills and take full responsibility for my learning? By not facing the consequences of my poor organizational skills or lack of attention to my diary, am I learning from

the experiences and growing? Sure, I’ll meet the deadline, stay out of trouble and possibly do well, but are my chances of getting things right organisationally in the future enhanced at all?” Groups which involve teachers: once a teacher or member of staff becomes part of a group, the nature of the group changes and the stakes rise. Now the professional and the school run the risk of being implicated in any inappropriate postings. Professionals have an ethical responsibility to act on any concerning or unacceptable comments, information or content. Parents (and pupils) sometimes transfer teacher mobile phone numbers to their contacts and may then contact the teacher outside of professionally acceptable hours, intruding on private time (or sleep on occasion). The boundaries between parent and teacher or teacher and pupil can become blurred and this can have far reaching consequences. Managing such groups: it’s clear from the reflections above that the benefits and value of the WhatsApp groups come with real risks and that caution needs to be exercised when forming, joining or engaging in any of these groups. Some helpful strategies that I’ve heard of include: 1. Creating broadcast only groups (one individual makes all postings and there is no room for comment or two way communication); 2. Putting very clear guidelines in place when establishing a group and inviting people to join the group; 3. Drafting and implementing a schoolwide social media policy which spells out the school community’s position and requires compliance with such principles and behaviour. Social media channels are clearly here to stay and can add great value. Let us as parents and school communities reflect on how best we embrace them safely and proactively minimise the risks which appear inherent to them. 

June 2018 | the muse | 6

OUT AND ABOUT

We’re Real about Real Estate

June 2018 | the muse | 9 PROPERTI ES PINELANDS, THORNTON MAITLAND, KENSINGTON

* asking prices

021 531 0773 www.jawitz.co.za

Central Square Pinelands

RENTALS

Chris Crous Sales & Principal 082 410 5559

The Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden The Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden was created by this accomplished artist on the slopes of the Stellenbosch Mountain. The landscape was "sculpted" into a beautiful garden with lakes and ponds and a selected placement of Dylan Lewis Sculptures painting a picture of his life journey. This is a private garden which offers booked tours for R140. We spent a few hours exploring the paths leading through the aloe garden, the pepper tree grove, the poplar grove, over the main lawn overlooking the lake and back to the old studio, where we studied charcoal drawings and the bronze foundry. Following the supplied route map we admired and studied the variety of sculptures ranging from birds to big cats to early female figures. There are over 60 sculptures dotted about the landscape - some that tower above one's head. We started the morning having a delicious cup of coffee and carrot cake at the "Old Storeroom" coffee shop near the garden's car park. This is an interesting venue with very friendly staff and so much to look at and admire, that one visit just isn't enough. One may have seen the leopard and springbok sculpture at Kirstenbosch Gardens, a fine example of his work with big cats. To book call 021 880 0054 or email reservations@dylanart.co.za, or see www.dylanlewis.co.za.

Karen Simpson Sales 083 284 0162

Trish Rix 078 038 2337 Marion O’Gorman 076 588 4022

Roger Lawrence Owner 082 895 2719

SOLD BY US

PINELANDS | * R3 800 000

THORNTON | * R1 050 000

FOR SALE

PINELANDS | * R3 500 000

PINELANDS | * R5 995 000

FOR SALE

WE ARE ALL SOLD OUT! Call us now for a free market-related valuation

PINELANDS | * R1 895 000

TO RENT

PINELANDS | * R25 000 pm

VERY COMPETITIVE COMMISSION RATES TO RENT

PINELANDS | * R25 000 pm

Buying, Selling or Renting? Contact us today! Qualified Tenant Database and Profile | Network Affiliation Maintainance | Council Accounts Collection | Legal Process Expertise

#TimeToGetReal About Discrimination

June 2018 | the muse | 7

Jawitz Properties (Pty) Ltd has an outstanding reputation which has been built on our company values. Anyone associated with the brand is expected to be real about living our values, including our value “Follow True North”, which applies to treating all people with appropriate courtesy, respect and dignity regardless of their colour, race, religion, gender/sexual orientation, ethnic origins or any other reason. Every one of us has signed a commitment to our non-discrimination pledge. • To adopt a zero tolerance attitude towards discrimination; • To ensure that my words and actions do not discriminate on any grounds; • To always refer to any person by their name, not their race; • To not accept any work from clients who require that I discriminate on any grounds.

THE CANNONS CREEK HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2018 BEFORE THEIR MATRIC DANCE AT SUIKERBOSSIE An owner managed beauty escape

Enquire about HAIR OUR NEW NAILS NON-SURGICAL FACIALS FACIAL TREATMENTS WAXING Our own passionate and SPRAY TANNING talented team of qualified nail technicians and GIFT skin therapists offer you VOUCHERS AVAILABLE top quality treatments.

phone: 021 531 5327

www.urbantherapy.co.za Sunrise Park, Prestige Drive, Maitland

y-M5-084.indd 1

2018/04/16 1:58 PM

CELEBRATING WORLD BLOOD DONOR DAY WITH MEGAN FITZGERALD Pinelander Megan Fitzgerald is a platelet donor at the Western Province Blood Transfusion Service. She started donating blood in high school, following in her father’s footsteps, and has a passion for making a change in the community. Megan has made 114 remarkable donations. Message to potential donors? “ I urge everyone who is healthy to make time and donate blood”. June 14th 2018 is World Blood Donor Day hosted by Greece with the theme Blood Connects us all. This is an annual event to thank voluntary blood donors; to acknowledge that blood donations save and change lives and to encourage new donors. The slogan "Share Life, Give Blood" highlights the caring and fostering of community cohesion by donors. For donor information see www.wpblood.org.za.

COMMUNITY NEWS

propertysmithrealestate@gmail.com PO Box 727, Rondebosch 7701

WAFIKA SIDWABA SET TO WOW TALENT SCOUTS IN AMERICA

Young Pinelands actress Wafika Sidwaba’s dream of one day becoming an international star is slowly but surely taking shape. 17-year-old Sidwaba will be heading to the United States in less than 2 months time to show off her talent in front of international talent scouts in Orlando, Florida and attend lectures at the New York Film Academy.

“I’ve always believed that the performing arts were more than just entertainment, but also a platform to share experiences. I am beyond excited to have an experience that will forever reshape my life,” Wafika, a student at Cannons Creek High School, has already auditioned at the Hyde Hotel in Sea Point where she received a callback from the IATS (International Arts Talent Showcase) director Elsubie Verlinden. Her success at this audition led to her performing in front of ARTS (Applause Rising Talent Showcase) director Kim Myers and Tyler Perry Studios director, Rhavynn Drummer. At the Silver Star Casino in Krugersdorp Wafika, alongside hundreds of other singers, dancers, models and actors, took the stage. “After my performance, it was an anxious wait. I was lucky to have my mother, Nodumo Sidwaba, with me to ease the nerves,” she says. The night ended on a high note with her getting a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to place Pinelands and Cape Town on the international map at the Swan and Dolphin Resort in Disney World, Florida in July 2018. She will be performing in front of international talent scouts and big-name agents, scouts, casting directors and producers from America, Europe and Asia. “It feels as though all the dreams I’ve ever had are slowly coming true.” As the day of reckoning draws nearer, Wafika and the South Africa ARTS team is all set to go. Having gone through rigorous boot camps in Pretoria in January and April, she says that she could never be more prepared. Counting her blessings Wafika also looks forward to an interview later this year in the hopes of obtaining a study position at The New York Film Academy. Wafika is still attempting to acquire funds and all donations are welcome. Details below: Banking Details: Applause Rising Talent Showcase FNB Cheque Account 62492018869. Branch Code 251655 Reference: Wafika Sidwaba Contact: Elsubie Verlinden. Director, Just You Model & Artist Management Email: justyouartist@yahoo.com. Call 011 039 2481 or 084 759 0677.

June 2018 | the muse | 9

RONNIE

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Macleod’s Attorneys ATTORNEYS | CONVEYANCERS | ESTATES ADMINISTRATORS

021 788 1439

COMMUNITY NEWS COMMUNITY NEWS

June 2018 | the muse | 10

PNPS GRADE 7 MARCH 2018 TOUR The early hours of Monday, 19 March saw the start of the Grade 7 Pinelands North Primary School 2018 tour. Sixty-three pupils accompanied by seven adults were excited and eager to start their journey and to spend the week with their friends. The first stop was the Cango Wildlife Ranch, followed by Wilgewandel, where the pupils enjoyed learning about different reptile species, and found the camel rides and paddle-boats very exciting. The next day started with a delicious

breakfast before heading off to the Cango Caves. Many fears were overcome through teamwork, guiding and supporting one another. On 21 March, despite the rainy weather the children set off for Plett Puzzle Park, where they worked in groups to solve problems, relying only on skills and intelligence. The evenings were spent enjoying a variety of wonderful meals, including those at the Spur and Ocean Basket. Thursday, 22 March, was one of the most

fun-filled days, as there were five activities to complete. Monkeyland was the first stop followed by Birds of Eden. Then on to Adventureland. A boat ride at Knysna Harbour followed, ending off the day with a night hike and outdoor activities in the forest. On Friday, 23 March, the tour headed back to Cape Town. The children and teachers had mixed emotions, as they were both sad to leave, but also felt a sense of accomplishment and fulfilment.

COMMUNITY NEWS

PROPERTY MATTERS

THE PITFALLS OF EARLY OCCUPATION PINELANDS PLAYERS TURN 70 ! In 1948, there wasn't a lot of theatrical activity in Cape Town. After the horrors of WWII, servicemen were adjusting to being home. The old Opera House and the Tivoli Music Hall had been demolished and the only theatre of any status was the enormous Alhambra cinema, only suitable for large musicals. Enter the extraordinary Madge Harding. After some years on the West End stage, she’d emigrated here in the 1920’s, married, settled and raised her family in Pinelands. As a parishioner at St Stephens, this lady with boundless energy and a forceful personality, joined forces with the Reverend Leonard Shapter. Together they persuaded the church that the proposed new Hall should include facilities for theatrical performances. Madge then set about raising enthusiasm among the parishioners, and together with the Reverend, in 1948, they formed the St Stephens Pinelands Repertory Society and staged concert parties to raise funds to pay off the debt to the Diocese for the building of the hall. Since then Pinelands Players have been actively producing straight plays, musical reviews and full musicals moving from the church hall to the UCT Little Theatre. The face of the society has changed over the years but the key aims and objectives remain the same: • Strengthen the sense of community in Pinelands; • Present theatrical productions in public; • A rrange member’s evenings for the entertainment and instruction of members. Today, community theatre is a very different world. Pinelands Players committee headed up by Laura Bosman is committed to honour the legacy of the history of Pinelands Players and the many members who over the last 70 years have helped build and grow it, while ensuring that they remain up to date with the changes facing the community theatre arena. Their aim is to ensure that they provide opportunity for people to express their creative talents both on and off the stage and to produce high quality performances. Some recent highlights have been the productions Shout! The Mod Musical, and The Full Monty at the Roxy review bar at Grand West. Community involvement has continued with the supper theatres held at the Pinelands town hall. Pinelands Players have built a small stage at their clubhouse, The Crossing, where young/ new people are encouraged to develop their theatrical talents whether it be writing, singing, acting, dancing…… In 2019 Pinelands Players will be taking a big step with their production of Hairspray at the Artscape theatre. 70 years strong and still going. Article by Tina Gough. 

June 2018 | the muse | 11

Early occupation is not By Johan Meyer uncommon in property Seeff Pinelands sales transactions, often as a result of the time Article sponsored by frames between moves. Bisset Boehmke Purchasers may also be McBlain Attorneys tempted to upgrade prior to moving in. We spoke to Lisa Visagie of Bisset Boehmke McBlain attorneys about how the parties to the sale should approach this matter to avoid any misunderstandings and problems. She has advised that risks for both the purchaser and seller must be correctly dealt with in the sale agreement or by adding an addendum setting out the parties’ respective responsibilities. One of the key risks is that transfer may not take place whilst occupation has already been given. It is therefore important that the full purchase price is paid or guarantees provided and all suspensive conditions met before occupation is given. The seller must ensure that the purchase price is sufficient to pay all mortgage loans, rates and taxes as this may delay transfer. Risk normally passes from seller to purchaser on transfer and risk together with potential liabilities must be dealt with before occupation is given. Ensure that adequate Homeowners Insurance cover is provided for property or accidental damage, personal injury or loss. Allowing a purchaser to begin with alterations may result in a seller having to complete the upgrade or restore the property to its former condition should the purchaser fail to take transfer. The purchaser could attempt to delay transfer as they have now been exposed to defects which they claim they were never made aware of, even though these are covered by the Voetstoots clause. Lastly ensure that the occupational rent is agreed upon and paid before transfer. As the above reflects, many complications can arise from early occupation. For legal advice pertaining to this or any property matters, please contact Lisa Visagie.

Lisa Visagie (BA LLB) Tel: 021 441 9800 l.visagie@bissets.com www.bissets.com

Lisa Visagie, Partner and Conveyancer at Bisset Boehmke McBlain Attorneys, has been serving clients in the Pinelands, Thornton and surrounding areas with all their property transfer requirements for over 10 years.

www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

COMMUNITY NEWS

June 2018 | the muse | 12

Pinelands, Thornton and surrounds

Leslie Brown 084 556 6778

leslie@degraafproperties.co.za

Professionalism, Passion, and Service Excellence. Please call whether you are buying, selling or simply need a free valuation.

www.degraafproperties.co.za

-085.indd 1

Doctor

2018/05/17

Dr Louise Wigens MEDICAL AID RATES Phone for an appointment

021 531 4111

Mutual Park, Pinelands HOURS West End Medical Suite Mon - Fri First Floor - in the mall 08:30 - 17:00 drsreception@telkomsa.net www.westendmedicalsuite.co.za

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PINELANDS

HELEN KELLER SOCIETY - CELEBRATING 60 YEARS IN AGED CARE (NPO 000-253) The Helen Keller Society marks its 60th year in aged care this year. The seed of the organisation was planted when Helen Keller herself visited South 11:09 AM Africa in 1951 and appealed for funds for a hostel. 1958 finally saw that dream become a reality when a hostel was built which initially accommodated 17 blind working ladies. And so the Society’s journey began... Over the years there have been many changes and expansion became a necessity. Thanks to the vision, tenacity, and wonderful dreams of certain individuals, as well as generous financial donations from the public and Trusts, it has grown into a thriving community. The complex currently accommodates up to 118 residents (most of whom are visually impaired) either in independent living in the Cottages, assisted living in the Home, or in the Care Centre which boasts 24 hour nursing care. The Society has built up a large band of no less than 182 loyal volunteers over the

years (ranging in age from 18-85), who greatly help the residents in a wealth of ways and the Society is grateful for their assistance, loyalty, and kindness. Since 1998, our Low Vision department has enlarged and expanded the community services of the Society. This department provides information, advice, a wide range of reading aids, and assistive devices to the sight-impaired in the community through individual assessments at our resource centre, or through a network of support groups at various venues throughout greater Cape Town. It holds monthly clinics at Groote Schuur, Tygerberg and Eersterivier Eye Hospitals and recently opened a clinic at the Athlone School for the Blind. The dedicated and loving nursing staff (some of whom have worked here for over 20 years), have taken service excellence to the next level, providing compassionate care to our many residents. The Society is successfully run by a Board of Management.

2017/07/23 10:59 AM

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MONEY MATTERS

Creating and protecting your wealth

More than Just Maths

Crue Invest (Pty) Ltd is a authorised financial services provider regulated by the Financial Services Board, FSP No. 19025.

By Sue Torr

Crue Invest’s professional ADVISORY TEAM

Director Crue Invest

Budgeting and money management are used to teach our children about personal finance, along with an underlying set of principles forming the bedrock for future success and happiness:

Everything worth having is worth waiting for

In an age of instant-everything, there is precious little we have to wait for. We are permanently connecting, searching, checking in and updating statuses. Every action is aimed at the same result: instant gratification. Everything that technology provides us is antithetical to long-term investing – which at its heart is all about delaying gratification. Everything worth having is worth waiting for. Be patient.

Make yourself experience-rich

Handbags, wallets and cars, once symbols of status, have been replaced by Facebook pictures of our latest experiences – ski lifts in Livigno, sunsets at Afrika Burn, dancing at Secret Sunrise or yoga with goats. Social media endorses what we have always known: that experiences make us happier than material purchases. In “Happy money: The science of smarter spending”, Elizabeth Dunn and Michael Norton noted that the anticipation of an experience is more pleasurable than the purchase of a material object. Elias Burton Holmes, an American who first coined the term "travelogue", is famous for saying, “The only things that I own which are still worth what they have cost me are my travel memories; the mind pictures of places which I have been hoarding like a happy miser.” Buy experiences.

It pays to be a decent human being

A 2008 Harvard Business School study established that when people give to others it activates regions of the brain associated with pleasure, social connection and trust, which in turn creates what is called the ‘warm glow’ effect. There is very little you can do for yourself which will have the same effect as doing something good for another person. Give freely.

Learning lasts a lifetime

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go,” says Dr Seuss. Never before have we had access to so much information, so quickly and for so

June 2018 | the muse | 13

little. It is quite incredible to think of all the information accessible via one’s smart phone - from photographic courses to Xhosa to Calligraphy. Even universities like Harvard and MIT are offering free online courses, and all you need to commit is your time and some motivation. Never stop learning.

Do what you love doing

While many of us have been raised to believe that there is something noble about setting aside one’s true passion in order to make a respectable living, Millennials are experimenting with blending passion, purpose and pay cheque, with many becoming masters at finding the hidden value in their unique talent that the world is willing to pay for. You can absolutely make money doing what you love.

CRAIG TORR, CFP®

ERIC JORDAAN, CFP®

(B.COMM)

(B.COMM, LLB, LLM,) ADV. GRADUATE DIP. IN FINANCIAL PLANNING

GARETH COLLIER, CFP®

DEVON CARD, CFP®

(B.COMM)

DIRECTOR

Understand the value of money

Money today is more intangible than ever before thanks to Snapscan, tap ‘n go, Uber and cardless cash withdrawals. There is now very little that stands between ‘wanting’ and ‘having’. The danger of a near cashless society lies in the deteriorating value of money, especially when it is money earned by others. Appreciating the value of money earned by others and exercising stewardship over what we have been blessed with are essential life lessons. Be thankful for what you have been given.

The Jones’s may be broke

Materialism is a system that forces us to compare our possessions with those of others, and there is no end to the race. Psychologists and researchers agree that obsession with materialism is socially and personally destructive, and is associated with anxiety, depression and broken relationships. Stay out of the race.

Be prepared to get dirty

Successful people aren’t gifted - they work hard and then succeed on purpose. It was Robert Louis Stevenson who said, “Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but of playing a poor hand well.” Socially connected, gregarious individuals with a never-say-die attitude to their idea are far more likely to succeed than someone with a string of qualifications but who is unwilling to put in the hard graft. If you believe in your idea, be prepared to roll up your sleeves and get dirty. 

DIRECTOR

Crue Invest is a fiercely independent, fee-based financial planning practice based in Pinelands. Having been in operation for 14 years, we have a team of 12 professionals who provide financial advice on almost R1 billion of invested assets. Our financial advisory team consists of four financial planners, all of whom are Certified Financial Planning® professionals. WHAT IS A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® The CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® designation is internationally recognised as the standard for financial planning professionals. The status gives clients confidence that the financial planner they’re dealing with is suitably qualified to provide advice. To receive the respected CFP® designation, an applicant must meet stringent requirements in respect of education, examination, experience and ethics. CFP® professionals are also required to maintain technical competence and fulfil ethical obligations by renewing their membership annually. WHAT IS AN FPI APPROVED PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE? Crue Invest is one of only 14 practices in South Africa that have been accredited by the Financial Planning Institute as an FPI Approved Professional Practice™. This accreditation follows a stringent audit of the business and confirms that the practice meets the highest ethical standards in the pursuance of the profession. The accreditation reinforces that our standards in terms of knowledge, expertise and ethical conduct are amongst the best in the country.

CRUE HOUSE 5 Long Place, Pinelands

phone • 021 530 8500 email • info@crue.co.za web • www.crue.co.za

TRAVELERS

COMMONWEALTH GAMES GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA, 2018 NEVER, NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP! TICKETS FOR THE SA VS AUSTRALIA GAME

When we learnt that the South African Hockey team would be participating in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, we and our daughter, Alison (Austin’s No.1 fan) and Austin’s other sister, Hayley and her family from Perth decided that we had to be there. Austin would meet his nephews for the first time. We set about buying tickets for all of South Africa’s games only to find the game against Australia was SOLD OUT.

THE SEARCH BEGINS - GUMTREE

Many years ago, when looking after boys in the Children’s Home, Winston Churchill’s phrase, “Never, never, never give up,” was one we often used. We used it again now as we searched for tickets to see Austin play in the South African team against Australia. SASCOC had not fulfilled their promise to supply us with tickets. Random Gumtree searches in Australia found us two tickets in different places in the stadium, so we knew that two of our group could see the game.

APPROACHING RADIO STATIONS

We set about Googling the radio stations at the Gold Coast and sent off seven emails to various stations. The next morning we had a reply from one of the stations who felt that this was a good story. Given the eight hour time difference, we worked out when we could connect and the station recorded an interview requesting help with finding tickets. It was a lovely surprise to find that the radio station had received an offer of four tickets (free of charge) from a lady who felt that our family would get more value out of them than she would.

HOCKEY AUSTRALIA HELPS OUT

We still needed one ticket and thought that maybe Hockey Australia could spare some SAFFAS a few tickets. By the time we arrived in Australia, in what felt like a few days later, we were met by an email from a lady

www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

by Priscilla Smith mother of South African Hockey player Austin Smith who had heard the interview and had one ticket to offer; and another from Hockey Australia to say that they could sell us three more. What excitement – our needs were covered! And we had three to spare - so we were able to assist other South African families. We collected our tickets from the Pop-up Radio Station on the Gold Coast beach all dressed in all our supporters gear, it was quite an occasion!

THANKS FOR AUSTRALIAN GENEROSITY

And how incredibly special to be sitting in the best seats watching Austin play for his country, all because of ABC Radio and the kindness of a couple of Aussies! Of course, we didn't give up on the apparently hopeless situation, and had achieved what we needed. The 4th interview, after the games were over, included Austin and they asked him what it was like to have his family at the games. Of course it means a lot to the players to have support and we are all incredibly grateful to everyone who helped this story to a happy ending.

A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE

The Commonwealth Games experience was fantastic. The Gold Coast was an amazing venue. Everything was so well organized from the free transport, security, information and the amazing volunteers to the great event venues. We were privileged to get a tour of the Athletes’ Village which was a bright, spacious and fabulous facility. Team SA was very comfortable there. After the games the village will be used as a University Residence.

PINELANDER AT THE GAMES

Austin, a born and bred Pinelander, learnt his hockey at Pinelands North Primary, Pinelands High and Pinelands Hockey Club and, of course, we are immensely proud of his achievements in the hockey arena. Now a Princess sponsored player, he plays professional hockey in Holland but never forgets his roots and is grateful to his amazing coaches at school level, particularly to Murray Anderson, his role model, former teacher and former coach. At just 12 years of age, he returned from school one day saying, “Mom, I want to be like Mr. Anderson. I want to be a teacher and to play hockey for South Africa.” Today he is both! He has played for the SA National team since the age of 18, he captained the team from 2008 – 2017 and is a qualified teacher. He too “never, never, never gave up!”

AUSTIN SMITH - AN INSPIRATION

Austin’s little nephews were so excited to be part of this event and to meet their famous uncle in the flesh. I am sure he has inspired them and many other youngsters to play this fabulous game. What an honour to have been part of Commonwealth Games 2018 in the Gold Coast. Thank you Australia for hosting one of the best events we have attended. 

June 2018 | the muse | 14

PINELANDERS As a youngster seeking adventure, Chris Smith (Smithy) aimed to leave the UK and travel to Australia. Persuaded to visit South Africa first, he arrived in Pinelands in 1969 and stayed with a family in Inverness Avenue. At the Christmas Eve evening service at St Stephens Church, he eyed his wife to be, Priscilla, in the choir — and 18 months later they were married! Their life journey has focused on helping children, culminating in the formation of the Cape Youth Centre and its many projects - including workshops & course material for "exploding your potential".

CHRIS AND PRISCILLA SMITH

B.E.S.T CENTRE

Cape Youth Care’s programme, The B.E.S.T Centre (Basic education and skills training) was born out of a need for children who had dropped out of school and were now too old to rejoin their mainstream classes. With help and guidance from Cape Youth Centre the B.E.S.T Centre grew from premises in two large containers in

June 2018 | the muse | 15

1999 with 4 children, to what it is today the B.E.S.T College with 150 learners at the Wesley Training College in Salt River, following the Department of Education ABET curriculum. Those children who do well can join a mainstream school; or can progress to use their skills outside of the school to earn a living or to study further.

TIME TO TRAVEL

In 2010 Smithy and Priscilla thought it would be good to take a working holiday and return to the UK for a few years. Priscilla landed a position with full board at a prestigious school in Kent. It was quite an experience being in an environment where parents visited their children by private helicopter! The time in the UK afforded Smithy and Priscilla the perfect opportunity to catch up with family and to see more of the UK and Europe. After seven years they returned to South Africa to prepare for the next chapter of their lives.

EXPLODING YOUR POTENTIAL

Smithy and Priscilla have authored two books that encompass the encouragement and life skills that they have taught to children over the years - principles that can be applied to all ages, children and adults alike. "Exploding your Potential" is

a course designed to change or improve any area of one's life, with techniques to improve self esteem and turn dreams into reality. They have used their many years of experience and understanding of psychology to write a course suitable for individuals, businesses, NGOs and sports teams. Along with this course they have also put together a collection of true life stories which make one think and realise what is possible with guidance and a positive attitude. Called "Daily Vitamins" this is an inspirational booklet with some well known encouraging facts and stories to help change your world and the world around you!

PROCEEDS TO CAPE YOUTH CARE

Exploding Your Potential is a course offered to groups of children or adults, businesses, sports teams, church groups or in fact anyone who wants to make a difference in what they do or how they do it. It aims to teach participants HOW to think not WHAT to think. The workshops can be organized and the little book called Daily Vitamins can be bought by contacting Chris or Priscilla Smith at 021 531 9660 or ccsmith2010@gmail. com. All profits will go to the programmes of Cape Youth Care. 

www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

Text: Glynnis Schutte.

Smithy and Priscilla, are the proud parents of four children, three of whom are in the teaching profession, and well known Austin Smith, professional Hockey player and coach. Although Smithy came to South Africa to work in the retail industry, he and Priscilla, who is a professional school teacher, were spiritually moved to accept the position of house parents at St John's Home in Tamboerskloof in 1974, where they cared for 32 young boys - following in the footsteps of Smithy's parents who had run a children's home in the UK. Eventually St Johns was amalgamated with the Teen Centre and became Cape Youth Care, a non-profit organisation aimed at helping children and families in need. Having closed the residential section, Cape Youth Care now runs an educational programme called the The B.E.S.T. College.

PINELANDER

TANIA WILLIAMS At ten years old Tania could do a cartwheel without using her hands. She promised herself that she would work hard to become a Springbok gymnast - and her daily gymnastics practice paid off when she became National Champion in 1984. Tania shares some of her experiences as the South African National Gymnastics Coach, and how she combines her love for business and her postgraduate degree in Psychology to study human development and motivation.

GYM IN PINELANDS

Tania has established gym schools in many parts of the Peninsula from the City Bowl, Camps Bay, Llandudno, Hout Bay to Blouberg, and Constantia in the Southern Suburbs as well as Durbanville in

www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

TALENT IDENTIFICATION PROGRAMME

Tania started this programme in 1996 to identify gymnastics potential in children from previously disadvantaged areas. (She has also run many outreach programmes and is now starting one right here with a school close by in Kensington…watch this

space!) What are the features that Tania looks for in a promising gymnast? "Besides the physical attributes that make a good gymnast such as body strength, low fat, lean muscle, good power to weight ratio, larger shoulder to smaller hip proportions, large hands - Tania feels that there has to be an "inner fire and desire - a certain X factor" plus the will to work hard while still enjoying themselves.

TALENT DOES NOT EQUAL MOTIVATION Tania has had a life-long interest in what motivates people to become the very best they can be. Through her gymnastics coaching and psychology training, she combines a passionate love for business into her research in human development and motivation. From being a coach to mentoring coaches, she has found many ways to motivate staff and children in their activities. She highlights the influence that body movement has in all spheres of our lives - connecting hard work with success. She guides her classes and her business staff through managing expectations, and perseverance - taking these new skills outside of the gym and applying them to an holistic lifestyle. "80% of many problems can be solved by being active," she says.

TANIA'S LIFE WORK So while all the “Springbok” activities infuse her technical knowledge and ability to motivate people, what really motivates Tania is the ability to “get children confident through exercise – regardless of their skill level or talent. “Giving children confidence and a healthy exercise routine for life, is my life work”. 

June 2018 | the muse | 16

Image and text: Glynnis Schutte.

SPRINGBOK CAREER

The Williams family moved to Pinelands when Tania was 12, and she became a Springbok Gymnast in grade 11 - during the "dark days" of our South African history. She was the reigning African and SA Champion with the highest mark in the all around finals in 1984. While studying at UCT for her Honours degree in Psychology, Tania coached part time and in 1992 became the junior national gymnastics coach. She was the senior Springbok coach from 1995 to 2000. Highlights of this part of her life include taking the SA team to the Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur in 1998 - where Tania comments that the team was "treated like royalty". The next memorable tour was to the World Championships in China in 1999, where she was able to experience the great wall of China and the fascinating Chinese culture. Tania has travelled to many international destinations during her career including the Moscow World Youth Olympics in 1998, and has developed 15 Springbok gymnasts over a career spanning more than 20 years.

the Northern Su b u r b s . Returning to Pinelands to establish the Gym Wizards school was both a business and an emotional decision. She is enjoying her new space at the Sunrise Business Park recognising that Pinelands has changed since she grew up here - where she attended The Red School for her gymnastics training, and Pinelands High School for her schooling. You can see her name on the Honours Board of Pinelands High. Continuing on the theme that "gymnastics is not just being able to do a cartwheel", Tania runs Gym Wizards with a passionate love of kids and their development combined with a strict set of safety rules. The Team follows a scientific six step system that she designed, which teaches basic gymnastic skills such as cartwheels, in a non competitive environment through to advanced skills, such as somersaults. This system is a culmination of her years of experience as a Springbok gymnast herself and includes methodology learnt in the USA as well as Russia - as the first South African coach invited to study by the Belarus Gymnastics Federation and Olympic Committee.

COMMUNITY INFORMATION CITY OF CAPE TOWN LAW ENFORCEMENT NUMBERS In the May edition of the Muse residents were urged to contact Law Enforcement when they see a problem in the community that needs attention - such as the bark stripping noted in Welwyn Avenue. A resident has kindly recommended a number they have found useful for reporting transgressions of city by-laws: 021 596 1999. The Muse has verified that the staff manning this number will take the details of the law infringement and direct the call to the relevant City of Cape Town response unit. An emergency number recommended by the City of Cape Town call centre is 021 480 7700. For a detailed pdf with emergency contact numbers see www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za blog.

WE DON'T LIKE PLASTIC! Plastic waste is a huge burden on the world environment, with many plastics finding their way into the oceans causing untold damage to sea-life. Well done to Pinelands as one of a few recycling suburbs in Cape Town. Congratulations to residents who care for the environment. The Muse magazine is occasionally forced to wrap magazines in individual plastic sleeves when our much needed rain arrives on the same day as deliveries begin. The wrapping preserves the content in the magazine, which is destroyed when it becomes wet. The wrapping is also expensive and a cost that we bear ourselves. So please put that sleeve in the recycle bag and keep our environment clean.

Lucky Winner of the Nina Timm Cooking Class! "I love oriental food and found my favourite ingredients were well balanced and blended beautifully to give an exciting, quick and easy to-prepare dinner." This is the entry from Maureen Gillham, the winner of the Nina Timm Cooking class offered in the May edition of the Muse. Congratulations Maureen! Enjoy your cooking class. For more on Nina Timm's cooking classes see www.my-easy-cooking.com. Heleen Meyer is our recipe contributor for the June edition. Look out for Nina's next easy recipe in the July edition of the Muse published on 26 June.