the Muse - Dec 2022

Darryl

RIDING THE ROLLERCOASTER

Well, here we are launching headlong into December... and how welcome this holiday season will be. Not wanting to tempt fate with yet another wave of you-know-what, it does feel like we have had a return to normality this year. Unfortunately though, extended periods of disruptive electricity blackouts have become part of the new normal with warnings of "extreme" cuts for the future.

Having navigated and survived the pandemic, businesses both large and small, were looking forward to some plain sailing on calmer seas as they worked towards recovery, but it seems like we will have this fresh challenge and more to face. We can only hope that we will, eventually, also see this problem through and the cycle might turn upwards for us again. Despite all the negatives, Glynnis and I have a lot to be thankful for. We have appreciated the continued and steadfast support of our advertisers and our readers, so thank you one and all! Despite sharing the loss of family members, our own and of friends, we have also had many good times to celebrate together and to share the simple pleasures of life with them. We wish you all the best for this Christmas and holiday season. May it be a time of rest and enjoyment for you with your own family and friends. For those taking the opportunity to once again travel further afield, we wish you a safe journey with many new sights, sounds, flavours and friendships to discover. For those staying home, I am sure you will enjoy getting out and about again in this wonderful Cape of ours, the food, the fairs and the parties... We look forward to your news and stories for the upcoming editions of the Muse in 2023. The Muse is taking a break in December, so our first edition of the new year will be our February edition which will come out at the end of January. We hope you enjoy this edition.

Max and Glynnis Schutte

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.

Fiery-Necked Nightjar

This dark brown nocturnal bird, about the size of a Laughing Dove, is heavily marked with a rich rufous collar, a white moustache and a throat patch. They are common residents. Intra-African breeding summer migrants are found throughout Southern Africa including Mozambique, Botswana and parts of Namibia. They are absent in drier desert regions. The call is a characteristic night sound of Africa, a plaintive whistled “good Lord deliiiiiver us”. The call descends in pitch and the first note is often repeated. They have large eyes, a large mouth, large whiskers and wing tips that help guide insects towards the mouth.

Featured bird text by John McFarlane

Resident at Pinewood Village, Pinelands, John has been a keen birder for more than 30 years, and has travelled to most parts of South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana following his birding passion. "Being retired makes it easier to get away" he says.

Max and Glynnis Schutte

John McFarlane at the Howard Centre flower sellers

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday 3 Dec 2022

PINELANDS METHODIST CHURCH "HOME GROWN" MARKET

The Market is back, with a distinctly Christmassy theme. There will be plenty of gift possibilities, with novelty items, toys, books, puzzles, hand-made jewellery, and of course good food, including preprepared meals and a delicious Saturday brunch. Please join us. Call Joan on 082 810 1889.

Saturday 3 Dec 2022 PINEWOOD VILLAGE FÊTE

Visit the annual Pinewood Retirement Village annual fête in University Drive, Pinelands from 8:15am to 1pm. Enjoy the tea garden, books, tombola, cakes, pickles, jams, boerewors rolls, beers & cooldrinks, raffles & lots of bric-a-brac. Proceeds go to Village Projects and a portion to charity.

Mon 5 to Thurs 22 Dec 2022

PINELANDS CRAFT AND GIFT FAIR

For a variety of gifts for all ages from 200 crafters, come shopping at the Craft and Gift Fair at Pinelands High School. Enjoy a cup of coffee, light meals or an ice-cream. Visit the pop-up nursery and buy fruit and vegetables. This is a child friendly environment. Parking is safe and entry is free. See advert page 8.

Wednesday 7 Dec 2022

HAPPY HOUR SOCIAL GROUP

Meet at the Pinelands library and enjoy the Year End Bash from 10am to noon. There will be Line Dancing, Laughing Yoga and a surprise! Call Santa at 021 531 2600.

Saturdays 2022 9am to 1pm

BRIC-A-BRAC SALES FOR KAPS

Support the Karoo Animal Protection Society bric-a-brac table at the Pop-up-Nursery at Pinelands Club. Donations welcome.

Saturday 10 Dec 2022

VISTA NOVA SUMMER FAIR

Come to Loerie Avenue, Pinelands between 9am and 3pm. There will be a Craft market, Bric-a-Brac, Food stalls, Tea Garden and lots more. Also: rides and live entertainment to keep everyone entertained. Entrance is free. R70 for unlimited rides. To book a stall contact: traceyannvisagie@vistanova.co.za.

Thursday 15 Dec 2022

WESTERN CAPE BLOOD SERVICE

Donate blood at St Stephens Church Main Hall, Central Square, from 3pm until 7:15pm. Confirm times at 021 507 6300.

December 2022

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CAPE

TOWN PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY EXHIBITION

South Africa's first Photographic Society, CTPS, based in Pinelands, invites you to a photographic exhibition at the Groot Constantia Wine Cellar. The exhibition which opened on 3rd November is open daily from 10am to 4pm until December 31st and entrance is free.

Saturday 21 January 2023

PINELANDS

TENNIS CLUB CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS

Join in for a day of excellent tennis, delicious food, craft beer, pancakes, live music and more as the Pinelands Tennis Club kickstarts their 2023 centenary celebrations! See top Cape Town tennis players in a funfilled, action-packed day.

Wednesday 25 Jan 2023

PINELANDS STAMP CIRCLE

There is no meeting in December. Next year meet at 6:30pm in the Activities Hall at Pinelands Library. This will be a "Favourites or New Acquisitions" evening. All welcome. Call Martin 021 689 5050.

Recently, 12 Pinehurst Music Department candidates took their Trinity Practical Music Examinations. Four candidates achieved Merits and eight candidates achieved Distinctions. There were also 21 entries for the Kaapse Afrikaanse Eisteddfod. The young musicians boast 2 Merits, 14 Honours and 5 Highest Honours. These included individual, duet and ensemble items. Special mention goes to Caden Chandler who participated in the Kaapse Afrikaanse Eisteddfod through entry by his private teacher. He achieved a shared Silver Medal for Brass Grade 7 and under, as well as a Gold Medal for the Junior Brass category. Caden achieved a Merit for his Grade 6 Trinity Examination and is a member of the Cape Philharmonic Junior Band.

Caden Chandler

STRIVING FOR A BETTER PINELANDS! VOTE FOR THE CID IS EXTENDED

TO 31 NOVEMBER

96% of those who voted on the CID (City Improvement District) voted a resounding "YES"! Encouraged by this outcome the City of Cape Town extended the voting period for residents to express their wishes around improved services in beautiful Pinelands until the end of November 2022. If you have not yet made your voice heard then go to www.pinelandscid.co.za to read about the proposed improvements and to find a voting form. For queries email: info@pinelandscid.freshdesk.com For more information call Desray Britz: 082 550 4133 or Sandi McGuffog: 083 460 6291

The Helen Keller Society held their annual fundraising fête on the 29th October 2022, and raised over R92 000. The Society wishes to thank the community, its volunteers, residents and staff for assisting and working tirelessly to achieve this figure. Thanks also to Western Province Caterers, Steve Richardson, Sophia Codron, SMA Security, Vitacare Rondebosch, PHS volunteers, Rotary Pinelands, and Tony Wyllie & Co., including many others, for their support.

FUN AND GAMES AT TEACHER BOWLING CHALLENGE AT PINELANDS BOWLING CLUB

Pinelands Bowling Club invited teachers from local schools to a Teachers' Bowling Challenge on 28 October. The response was overwhelming - from Pinelands North Primary, Pinelands Primary, Pinelands High as well as from Grove and Bergvliet Primary schools - all making up a total of 72 players! It was a fun afternoon of bowls, burgers music and socializing. In the end Pinelands High took the two top places and one of the PNPS teams won the best dressed prize. This event will definitely be on the calendar for next year again but if anyone wishes to throw out a challenge before then, Pinelands Bowling Club will be happy to accommodate you. Thank you to those who participated.

PNPS VOTED IN THE TOP THREE FOR BEST SCHOOL

As the community of Pinelands North Primary School, we would like to convey our heartfelt congratulations to Project Shelter Wakadogo in Uganda for winning the prize for ‘Overcoming Adversity’. We would like to thank the T4 Education community for creating such a wonderful platform to share the best educational practices globally. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the children we have learned from, the staff and families who have walked beside us throughout our twenty six year journey of inclusion, and to the broader South African community. To the Western Cape Education Department and the teaching core in South Africa, we appreciate your enrichment of the lives of the children of our nation. We feel privileged to have made it to the Top 3 in our prize category in 2022.

Client Testimonials

This is just a short note to thank you for all your effort and hard work with regard to the sale of my house. Not only did you manage to sell my house, but you managed to sell it twice, after the original buyer reneged on the transaction. All this was achieved within two months of me signing the mandate appointing Pam Golding Properties as the sole agent.

I must also mention that you keeping me informed at all times of the progress was a great comfort and further assurance that appointing you and PGP was a wise move. Thanks again for your very helpful and efficient assistance in this matter.

- Doug George, Seller -

Wonderful to work with Geneé, she helped us find our family home. What could have been a stressful process was easy and transfer was completed in record time.

- Mr & Mrs Roberts, Happy Buyers -

Happy

Our warmest wishes for a Happy Holiday Season!

Crue Invest is a professional financial planning practice based in Pinelands, Cape Town, and is one of only 14 practices in South Africa to be awarded the FPI Approved Professional Practice™ accreditation.

This accreditation recognises that our practice meets the highest ethical standards in pursuance of our profession, and reinforces that our standards in terms of knowledge, expertise and ethical conduct are amongst the best in the country.

We help you realise your lifestyle goals by providing transparent, trusted and fiercely independent advice and financial plans.

JOIN US FOR COFFEE

By Sue Torr Director Crue Invest

10 money habits to take with you into 2023

Sustainable wealth is created through the consistent exercise of good practices over a long period of time. Therefore commit to these money habits next year:

Spend less than you earn

The only way you can begin to build wealth is to ensure that your expenses are less than your income. Leaving surplus funds in a savings account does little to enhance your wealth, so it’s important to develop an investment plan designed to grow your wealth in real terms over time.

Pay yourself first

Paying yourself first means intentionally finding room in your budget to invest towards your future – and to set this above all other financial priorities. It’s easy to convince yourself that you have more pressing financial urgencies but, if you adopt this approach, it's likely you will always manage to find an excuse to avoid saving. Commit to paying yourself first –even if it means starting with a relatively small monthly contribution.

Be intentional about your purchases Research is clear that one’s ability to delay gratification is a key determinant in one’s financial success. Remind yourself that every purchase you make today is effectively a withdrawal from your future financial security and will delay the point at which you reach financial freedom.

Think long-term

If you are investing for the long term, regular tracking of investment markets is futile –so set this habit aside. Being a successful investor means riding out volatility while waiting for the markets to recover.

Track your expenditure

Budgeting involves a lot more than merely keeping track of expenses. As you get into the habit of record-keeping, checking bank balances, double-checking your debit orders and querying fees, the process of budgeting eventually forms part of everyday life. Query your bank charges, shop around for the best interest rates, interrogate your cell phone contract and read the fine print.

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Educate yourself

The financial services arena is vast, complex and difficult to navigate alone. Financial ignorance is never ideal so commit now to ongoing financial education in 2023. Find a reputable blog, publication or website that provides independent, unbiased financial information applicable to your specific needs. Remember, most poor financial decisions are made as a result of ignorance rather than foolishness.

Talk to your children about money

Relationships with money are formed during childhood, so be intentional about having positive conversations with your children from an early age, about budgeting, the dangers of debt, the importance of investing, and how investment markets work.

Manage your debt

While debt may be unavoidable, how you manage it on an ongoing basis to leverage your financial position, create better opportunities for yourself and enhance your credit score is essential. Burying your head in the sand and making minimum monthly repayments is not a debt management strategy. If necessary, work with your financial advisor to develop a workable and realistic debt management plan.

Communicate with your spouse or partner about money

Lack of communication around the family’s finances can lead to hurt, resentment, jealousy and financial infidelity, so be purposeful about talking to your spouse about money. It’s never too late to start. Find an independent advisor that has experience in joint financial planning.

Stick to your plan

Start 2023 with a financial plan in hand and commit to reviewing and updating it regularly. Finding motivation to save and invest for the future is much more difficult in the absence of an end goal. Create a written set of goals for your life and develop a realistic financial plan to help you achieve them. If you lose motivation or veer from the path, read through your goals to remind you of your ‘why’

FLOWERS IN PINELANDS

By Jacqui Tooke Renew The Elsieskraal River

Wild flowers are not only wonderful in their diversity and beauty, but they are also vital to the thriving of indigenous insects and birds. We can’t turn back time to restore Pinelands to pristine fynbos that it once was, but we can find ways to create protected pockets of biodiversity, as we find better ways to live in harmony with the natural world.

One of the dreams of the Renew The Elsieskraal River is to see more endemic wildflowers flourishing along the river banks. Our team has found kindred spirits in the Friends of Pinelands Parks group who are also working towards endemic flower growth in some “no-mow” areas and public parks around our suburb. The plan is to collect seed from established wildflowers in our suburb, ones that are well adapted to our suburbs specific conditions, and then sow these in areas where we can offer some protection to allow them to grow. Our first step has been to observe what is already growing in the open spaces and verges around Pinelands. We set up an

iNaturalist Project (see Pinelands verges, parks & river flowers) and spread the word that we needed volunteer flower observers.

From August to October 16 volunteer observers documented flowers with over 200 observations made, of 71 different flower species. Volunteers have been doing this around their normal day-to-day responsibilities, just grabbing a moment here or there to walk the verges around their home and photograph the flowers that they find.

Five of our observers collected seeds, which are collected under the permit of a Professional Officer at Ecological Management, Recreation and Parks, City of Cape Town, documented, and stored safely until next year, just before the rains begin.

At this time our team will sow them along the banks of the Elsieskraal River and also in some parks around Pinelands. We are very respectful of the wildflowers, not taking more than 10% of their seed.

We shall only see results of this pilot project next spring. Our intention is to continue

with our observations and seed collecting for a number of years. If you wish to join as a volunteer please contact us on: renew.elsieskraal@gmail.com. No experience is required, we will share our expertise with you.

Endemic is a term to describe a plant or animal that is not only indigenous to an area but can really only be found in that specific area. In Pinelands we have the Cape Flats Sand Fynbos which is critically endangered and only found within the boundaries of the City of Cape Town. Read more: https://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Cape_Flats_Sand_Fynbos

PINELANDS HIGH SCHOOL CREATIVES SCOOP

FIRST AND THIRD PLACE

In October, Red & Yellow, known for being Africa's leading creative school of business, hosted their first ever Brand Challenge Bootcamp: Speedbrief Edition. Grade 1012 students from Pinelands, Springfield, Rustenburg, Bishops, Wynberg Boys’, Wynberg Girls’, Peter Clarke, Bergvliet, Claremont, Norman Henshilwood, Spirit Education and Cape Academy high schools took part. Industry experts were brought together to inspire students and teach them to brainstorm, put together agency style briefs and present to real-life clients.

With a judging panel that would typically select winners for the Loeries and Pendoring Awards, the pressure was on but the students came prepared and impressed the judges. Talented students from Pinelands High School impressed the judges and won 1st and 3rd place with their presentations for the Butler's Pizza brand, as well as the overall prize. As a result of their win the students attended the sought after prestigious Loeries Awards. Congratulations to all who participated in this brilliant achievement.

Front

DIGITAL INNOVATION AT PINELANDS HIGH SCHOOL

Pinelands High School is very excited to be embracing a one-to-one environment with the roll-out of iPads to Grade 8's in 2023. These devices will be used to enhance students’ learning as well as their digital skills in preparation for the world of work. The devices will be centrally managed and controlled by the school ensuring that they are only used for academic purposes during the school day. The plan is to roll out iPads

to each consecutive Grade 8 class after 2023. The school has been piloting the use of class sets of managed iPads for the last two years and have already shown that the iPad is a powerful tool that can make teaching and learning more stimulating. Teachers have been using iPads in the classroom for the past eight years which has ensured that sufficient training has taken place before a one-to-one environment is rolled out for students.

Left: Grade 8’s working in a group to present an exciting introductory question on the Natural Sciences chapter they were about to start. This was their first use of Keynote and they needed to export a video presenting their question to the class which was then used as the introduction to each lesson in the following week.

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Back row: Lucian Erasmus, Makomborero Muchemwa, Lulibo Xashimba, Mr D Campbell (Principal, Pinelands High School), Kara Jackson, Jan Murray, Erin Hendricks, Kate Adams, Lusindiso Keller, Connor Nicholas.

row: Ms M Paynter (Red & Yellow), Jenna Solomon, Fran Beatty.

THEATRECRAFT DRAMA WOWS AUDIENCES WITH FUN FILLED SHOWS!

Presenting on the stage at Pinehurst Primary School for the first time since COVID, children from Theatrecraft Drama, run by Paula and Jonathan Pursch, had fun showcasing their talent in various plays and musical theatre. The Grade 1-2's handled the dialogue, moves, entrances and exits unassisted and gave a delightfully slick play with The Crone and The Keeper

The Grade 3-4's, a group with more boys, enjoyed a lively, swashbuckling pirate play where they were undone by two clever female captains and their canny sailors. The swords and pistols and the treasure and secret maps made for an enthusiastic cast that brought great energy to the play.

A huge favourite was The Clubhouse which had a group of girls discovering an empty cabin in the woods which, unbeknown to them, four crooks were using for stashing their loot. Much confusion, multiple precision-timed entrances and exits and an inept, fashion-conscious trio of cops made this a resounding success.

The final number was a collage of Flappers numbers from what must be 100 years ago!

Chatanooga Choo Choo, Luck be a Lady, Ain't She Sweet and Big Spender were among the favourites with the cast just loving the dances, songs and outfits from that era!

That proved to be a real show-stopper! A choc-a-bloc audience on both evenings, with many parents returning for a second night, brought the 1920's to life.

The gift of a life-saving kidney

Traditionally, December is a time for giving. Donovan Adonis who works at GAPA (Grandmothers Against Poverty and Aids) tells us about the donation of a life-saving kidney from his nephew, Joshua Hendricks. Certainly a gift that keeps on giving!

My name is Donovan Adonis. I have lived in Pinelands for over 30 years with my wife Natalie. We have two children Stefan – who is also a Pinelands resident together with wife Theo and their son Jack. Our daughter Catherine lives in Johannesburg. We are all proud Pinelanders. My journey with kidney disease started many years ago. On our first wedding anniversary we spoke about starting a family, and it was at a medical check up for life insurance that the doctor discovered signs of nephritis – this is when your kidney tissue is damaged and cannot remove the waste from the blood. After being told that there was no cure I was advised to monitor my symptoms with medication and regular check-ups. In my case it was elevated blood pressure, gout, increased cholesterol and diabetes – as one doctor said “Lucky you, you have the full Monty”.

Loss of Kidney Function

Fast forward just over 30 years and warning bells began to ring when in a space of two years I lost over 50% of my kidney function. My doctor told me that we had to start preparing my body for a kidney transplant. The next blow for me was when the doctor told me that it’s not worth putting me on the national donor list because the waiting period is in excess of 12 years and by then I would be too old to be considered for transplant – Really?? Me too old?? My obvious option was to get a private donor –quite a daunting prospect. My children could not be considered as there was a possibility that they could also develop nephritis. 21 amazing people offered to help I recall telling a very close friend that I was looking for a kidney donor. His first reaction was – so where do I get tested?? I was not ready for that reaction and became emotional thinking that somebody would want to do that for me. In the end I had 21 volunteers. After a medical and lifestyle questionnaire my nephew, Joshua Hendricks came up as first choice. Like me, Joshua is a Pinelands resident, attending both Primary and High school locally. He studied Marine Biology at UCT – doing both Honours and Masters. He is 28 years old and very active in the First Pinelands Scouts group. He is both a blood and platelet donor.

Joshua Hendricks Donovan Adonis &

Stepping into the unknown

The journey of offering to donate an organ is an emotional one for both parties. Joshua and his fiancé had lots of questions, so I arranged for them to see the transplant coordinator at UCT Hospital. I was surprised to learn that they would not remove any of my kidneys, they would just add the new kidney close to the bladder. This fascinated my grandson – that I would have three kidneys and Joshua only one.

Ready for transplant - then Covid +ve Finally the date was set for Tuesday 11 January 2022. All things were in place – the surgeon confirmed availability and both Joshua and I arranged our leave for that time. Imagine my dismay when I tested positive for Covid at my pre-admission testing. The transplant was rescheduled to 15 February 2022 - just three days after Joshua's sister's wedding. Meantime, I was getting weaker and struggling to cope with work. I was truly suffering with extreme fatigue, swollen hands and feet, body cramps, body itching, my complexion was yellow and I had no energy. My sincere appreciation to Joshua Joshua and I were admitted the day before the surgery for the final preparation. At that stage I had only 9% kidney functioning. I used the opportunity to express my deep appreciation for this life changing opportunity he was affording me. All went well - except when I stopped breathing in

the recovery ICU! Joshua and I were put in a private ICU because we needed to isolate post-transplant. The doctors and staff were amazed at our swift recovery. My colour was better and my tiredness, body cramping and itching were not troubling me any longer.

A good recovery plus a wedding Once I was discharged Natalie took very good care of me. I have a great deal of medication to take daily - partly to make sure the kidney is not rejected by my body. Joshua is also doing well. He returned to work two weeks after the operation. He has quite a physical job but he is managing just fine and says he is as healthy as he was before the operation. He even managed to upgrade his fiancé to his wife and they have since moved into their own home. To mark this event in my life I had a tattoo of a kidney with Joshua’s initials “JPH” and the operation date “15-02-22” alongside it. Blessed to be able to continue my work I am still working at the NGO called GAPA (Grandmothers Against Poverty and Aids) based in Khayelitsha. They were very caring and asked all our beneficiaries to pray for both Joshua and myself. I returned to work after 6 weeks and it was very emotional meeting up with them again. I really enjoy being able to make a difference to the lives of our staff and beneficiaries – it speaks to my spirit and brings joy to my soul. 

CANNONS CREEK VALEDICTORY

Cannons Creek Independent High School held its annual Valedictory service on 20 October, honouring the Matric Class of 2022. This event marked the last formal school occasion for the Matrics. Mr van Haght (High School Principal) pointed out that this was the 20th Valedictory assembly, and these Matrics were the last single class to go through Cannons - the end of an era.

Two special traditions were enacted where the Matrics were instructed to find their families to give them a hug and thank them; and the roll was read of all the names that started with the Class of 2022.

As is tradition, Mr van Haght charged the Matrics with the responsibility to uphold the name of Cannons Creek and to never bring it into disrepute.

CANNONS CREEK PREFECTS ANNOUNCED FOR 2023

Congratulations to the newly-elected Prefects for 2023 at Cannons Creek Indepedent High School.

Back Row: Alexander Botha, Bjorn Frassek, Luke Bryant, Thomas Kabalin.

Front Row: Hlumelo Mbadlisa, Chelsea Allen (Deputy Head Prefect), Hannah Kline (Head Prefect), and Tatum-Leah Sullaphen.

Public speaking has - and always will be - an important life skill. It is not necessarily the candidate that achieved the best marks, nor attended the best school, but rather the candidate that interviews best who gets the job. On Saturday 15 October 2022, eight Grade 9 Cannons Creek pupils graduated from the HIPS (High Impact Public Speaking) course after seven weeks of preparation. At this Graduation ceremony, pupils needed to present a 5-7 minute speech on an authentic topic, without any notes. Founder and CEO of HIPS, Andre Du Toit, commented, "The progression they've made is enormous, and we've been absolutely amazed at their depth as they picked some very difficult topics." Mrs Wendy Joubert said, "This is an incredible skill. I've had the privilege of not only facilitating but also learning from each of these brave pupils."

Some of the major prize winners: Ebrahiem Slamang (Kleinsmith School Dux for Sciences), Hannah Lewis (School Dux for Humanities), Kaylee Williams (van Cuyck Senior Victrix Ludorum, and The Principal's Honour Award), Mr Mike van Haght (High School Principal), Liam Ogilvie (Needham Trophy for Culture), and Israa Gamiet (The Pinelands Rotary Club Trophy for Initiative).

Back row: Mrs Wendy Joubert (Teacher), Rish Jaga, Plamedi Mpiana, Isabella Baker, Mr Hilton Samuels (Teacher), Ms Nicke Abraham, and Mr Andre Du Toit.

Front row: Chloe McComb, Diya Jaga, Nu'maan Omar, and Shahaan Ho-Kim. Absent: Mbali Mbulawa.

On the 31st of October 2022, Pinelands Ratepayers and Residents Association honoured Alderman Brian Watkyns with a Lifetime Achievement Award, for his 39 years service as the Ward Councillor of Pinelands.

Left: Brian Watkyns and Family: Ann, Emily, David and James.

Honouring Alderman Brian Watkyns Lifetime Achievement Award

LONG SERVICE RECOGNISED

Alderman Brian Watkyns, Ward Councillor of Ward 53 for 39 Years was recognised and awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Pinelands Ratepayers and Residents Association (PRRA) AGM. Although Alderman Watkyns retired from his position as ward councillor for Pinelands in 2021, he continues to be a councillor, providing support in other areas of Cape Town.

BRIAN IN THE MUSE JULY 2011

In the July 2011 edition of the Muse we celebrated Brian's 29th year of service to the community. We learnt that he is a talented musician along with his wife Ann and their children. He is a keen historian especially concerning Pinelands and he enjoys collecting Vinyl records. In 2011 he said "The community benefits from Pinelands being both a Garden City and a conservation area, with wide open spaces and building restrictions. Although things will change with time, we should try to preserve something of the uniqueness that Pinelanders enjoy."

HISTORY OF PINELANDS WEBSITE

At the lifetime achievement Award Ceremony Yazied Davids (PRRA Assistant secretary), presented an overview of articles written by Brian and the launch of the website, History of Pinelands. The site contains stories and articles that highlight the heritage of Pinelands and gives insight into the area as the first Garden City of South Africa. The website was launched to celebrate the centenary of Pinelands and is published on: https://pinelandshistory.co.za/

A SUCCESSFUL CAREER

Current Ward Councillor Riad Davids spoke on Brian’s achievements while in office, some of which are listed below:

• Over the years he has served in almost every councillor position including Deputy Mayor and Acting Mayor.

• He led the Cape Town delegation to the United Nations World Summit on Sustainable Development where the team won first prize for their exhibition.

• He was invited to be part of a small UNESCO group meeting in Budapest to prepare a handbook on socially sustainable cities in developing countries

• He successfully opposed a reduction of open spaces in Pinelands.

• With the Ratepayers Association, he successfully opposed the Pinelands General Valuation, which would have increased Pinelands rates up to 72%.

• He ensured that Council accept responsibility for workers health issues resulting from asbestos exposure at the Athlone Power Station.

• With SANParks created the Zeekoevlei Environmental Education Trust.

• In 1995 established the Pinelands Community Police Forum with Peter Henry and was elected vice chair. This was the first certified CPF in South Africa.

• In the 1980s he successfully proposed that Pinelands Municipality welcomes all South Africans as a stand against the Group Areas Act.

• Proposed that the original area of Pinelands be declared a Heritage Area which was finally established in 2015

COLLEAGUES PAY TRIBUTE

Long-time colleagues and long-serving councillors Alderman Clive Justus and Councillor Ian Iverson paid tribute to Brian.

GIVING THANKS

In thanking the association for the award, Brian also thanked his family, the residents of Pinelands, Thornton and other areas of the ward for supporting him for many years. Quote from Brian’s speech: “Without the support of the community, I could never have done the things I did. There were times my actions came under scrutiny, but I always tried to do what was right. I will miss the interaction with residents but not the late-night calls.” 

John Berry (PRRA chairperson), Alderman Brian Watkyns, Riad Davids (Pinelands Ward Councillor).

Darryl Jacobs

Congratulations to Pinelander

Western Cape Department of

HOW DID YOU FEEL BEING KNIGHTED?

It was extremely humbling to be honoured in this way, and especially significant as I was born and raised on the Cape Flats, and grew up with no special privileges. Being recognised in this way was in many respects a triumph over adversity, and where the circumstances of my upbringing did not dictate my destiny. The ceremony was deeply moving, as I was privileged to have my family and friends in attendance along with the Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, who introduced the proceedings. The Consul-General of France in Cape Town, Mr Laurent Alberti, acted on behalf of President Emmanuel Macron in carrying out the knighthood and handing over the award.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORK THAT THE FRENCH REPUBLIC RECOGNISED

I am the Deputy Director-General at the Department of Agriculture, and carry the

responsibilities of supporting agricultural producers in all facets of the value chain, oversee the oldest agricultural college on the African continent, namely Elsenburg Agricultural College, develop programs to stimulate the rural economies and ensure that farmworkers are treated with dignity and supported in terms of their basic needs. Both the Western Cape Province and the Bourgogne-Franche Comté region share a strong affinity for agriculture and wine production. In 2001 academic and professional exchange programs were implemented to enable the sharing of best practices and knowledge. Over the years the Elsenberg Institute of Agricultural Training has sent over 200 students to France, and received over 50 students from their French counterpart the CFPPA (Centre de Formation Professionelle et de Promotion Agricole) of Beaune. The exchange programs benefit local industry, including the dairy industry and drive job creation.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT PINELANDS?

I have lived in Pinelands for more than two decades, and currently reside in Riverside Road. I love the centrality, the quality of life, surrounded by trees, squirrels and birds. Despite the growth of the area, I remain optimistic that Pinelands will retain the core elements of its character, and remain one of the most sought after suburbs within the City of Cape Town.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS LOOKING TO WALK IN YOUR FOOTSTEPS?

Do not allow the circumstances of your birth, your schooling or your upbringing, to decide your destiny. Everything is possible with hard work, a right attitude, and God's grace.

The Order of Agricultural Merit

The Order of Agricultural Merit was established by the French Government in 1883 and is one of the last remaining orders of official recognition of France. 

Image supplied by the Consulate General of France in Cape Town.

and Deputy Director-General of the

Agriculture, Darryl Jacobs, who was Knighted to the Order of Agricultural Merit by the French Government on the 21st October. This special award recognises his work done in agriculture and professional training in co-operation between the Western Cape Province and the BourgogneFranche Comté region in France.

By Heleen Meyer Pinelands resident, foodie and author of Food from the Heart, and Make five/Maak vyf

Marble cake with sour cream & berries

300 ml (300 g) soft butter

350 ml castor sugar

6 large eggs

10 ml (2 tsp) vanilla essence

625 ml (2½ cups) cake flour

15 ml (1 tbsp) baking powder

100 ml milk

125 ml (½ cup) good quality cocoa

100 ml strong black coffee

Topping

150-200 ml sour cream

125 g fresh blueberries, raspberries or strawberries and some edible flowers

1. Preheat oven to 180 °C. Grease a 24 cm Bundt tin with butter. Dust with a thin layer of extra flour to evenly coat the sides. Shake off the excess.

2. Beat butter and sugar together with an electric beater until light and fluffy. Incorporate as much air into the mixture as possible for a lighter texture.

3. Add eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each addition. Beat until smooth, then add vanilla. Divide this egg mixture equally into two bowls - one for the vanilla batter and one for the chocolate batter.

4. Flour mix: Sieve the flour and baking powder together in a separate bowl.

5. Vanilla Batter: Use a large metal spoon and fold the milk into the one egg mixture, alternating with 375 ml (1½ cups) of the flour mix.

6. Chocolate batter: Sieve the cocoa into the remaining flour mix. Fold the coffee, with another metal spoon, into the second egg mixture, alternating with the cocoa flour mixture. Take care not to overmix either of the batters.

7. Place spoonfuls of the vanilla batter in the tin, alternating with spoonfuls of the chocolate batter, until all the batter has been used. Use a cake tester or kebab stick and lightly swirl the batters together to create a marble effect. Gently smooth the batter on top. Bake cake for 30-40 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.

8. Cool the cake in the pan for a few minutes. Carefully turn out and allow to cool completely on a rack.

9. Topping: To serve, dollop spoonfuls of sour cream onto the cake and garnish with berries and edible flowers.

What a beauty!

Good quality cocoa, coffee, berries and sour cream … sounds like cake heaven to me! By adding a dark cocoa and freshly brewed coffee to one half of a butter cake batter, you can easily turn a basic butter cake into a delectable, marbled creation.

I’m not a fan of a rich or overly sweet icing on a cake, so when there are fresh berries involved, I’m the first to line up with my plate. The balance between the flavours in the batter and topping of this cake is so delicious. The cake always looks impressive, even if baked in a standard round cake tin. The moment you cut into it, everyone is

always impressed and will think that you spent hours in the kitchen. The method may seem long, but you basically prepare a vanilla cake batter and a chocolate cake batter. The fun part is swirling the batters together and waiting to see the marble patterns it creates on the inside. I love good coffee, so I use a proper espresso or strong shot of filter coffee – definitely not instant coffee, but that’s a matter of preference. The quality of the cocoa also plays a big role in the prominent ‘chocolate’ aroma of this batter, so the darker the better. This is the perfect recipe to bake as part of your festive menu this holiday, whether as dessert or for a tea-time treat.

Order a signed copy of Heleen’s recipe book, Make five to spoil someone (or yourself) with. The easy recipes will inspire you to use a variety of everyday ingredients in five mouth-watering and interesting ways. Included are many practical tips on how to cook delicious, wholesome food for you and your family. To order, or for more information on any of her books: visit www.heleenmeyer.co.za, email her on: heleen@heleenmeyer.co.za, or follow her on Instagram: @heleenmeyerfood

Makes one large cake

Portrait and food shot : Adel Ferreira Food shot: Courtesy of LiG magazine