the Muse - Feb 2023

Nancy Will Breaking Records at 70

Brian Watkyns

Nina Timm

Baked Feta and Olives

Cycling in the Netherlands

AND SO, ANOTHER YEAR BEGINS...

For someone like me, born in the middle of the previous century, 2023 has quite a futuristic sound about it. It is a little surprising to find yourself so far in the future from your childhood. It feels like "2023" should be the title of another futuristic sci-fi classic. For younger souls, I imagine that it feels like just another ordinary number with the hope of good things to come from it. I hope it turns out to be a vintage year to remember for you.

Looking forwards, there are some big sporting events this year:

In July / August the 2023 FIFA Women's Soccer World Cup takes place in Australia and New Zealand. With the rising popularity of the women's game, this could be a tournament to rival the men's equivalent, although a more exciting final would be a big ask.

In September / October there is the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. This is closely followed in October / November by the 2023 Cricket World Cup in India (the 50 over version).

For those with an interest in royal matters, the Coronation of Charles III and Camilla as King and Queen Consort of the United Kingdom and 14 other Commonwealth realms happens on May 6 in Westminster Abbey, London. Coronations are rare events and historically involved the highest pomp and ceremony. It is understood though, that this one will be somewhat more restrained and budget conscious.

Looking back, there are some auspicious anniversaries:

Both Disney and Warner Bros, the iconic movie studios, celebrate their centenaries as both were founded in the silent movie era in1923.

The 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, holds its centenary event in June. The race was first run on public roads around the town of Le Mans, in France, from where it takes its name. Baby Boomers may be surprised to know that The Rocky Horror Show has its 50th anniversary  after its 1973 debut at the Royal Court Theatre in London. I was lucky enough to see the stage show at this venue way back in my youth.

One further, more local, celebration is the 175th anniversary of St George’s Grammar School in Mowbray. You can read more about its long history in our Education Feature in this edition. Wishing you well for the year ahead.

Max Schutte

Editor and Advertising

Max Schutte

Writer and Photographer

Glynnis Schutte

CONTACT THE MUSE MAGAZINE

c 073 644 1288

e

muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za

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Burchell's Coucal

This bird is more often heard than seen. It is a fairly large bird with a white front, black head and nape, and rufus back. The call is a liquid bubbling sound like water being poured out of a bottle. The sound "du-du-du-du" is descending in scale and then rising towards the end. It is sometimes known as the "rain bird" because it is most often heard shortly before rain. Commonly found in riverine scrub, reed beds and thickly wooded gardens. Usually solitary or in pairs, they skulk in dense vegetation, seldom seen unless flying across open space, or perched on top of a bush or post drying or sunning. They usually lay four eggs during summer.

Featured bird text by John McFarlane a keen birder residing at Pinewood Village, Pinelands. His birding passion has taken him to most parts of South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. "Being retired makes it easier to get away" he says.

© 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.

Tony’s TREASURES

Cashpaidforthosepre-loved items that nolongerserveyou

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 tickey, sixpence, shilling, 5 shilling & R1 coins

POSTCARDS up to 1945 (1900 - 1920 are best)

CUPS & SAUCERS duos and trios (plate, cup & saucer)

OLD TOYS Schuco, Dinky, Meccano etc.

FOUNTAIN PENS, PEN-KNIVES AND WATCHES

Wednesday 1 Feb 2023

HAPPY HOUR SOCIAL GROUP

Meet at the Pinelands library from 9:30am to 11am for "Goal setting and Planning"

All welcome. Call Santa at 021 531 2600.

Saturday 4 Feb 2023

PINELANDS METHODIST CHURCH

"HOME GROWN" MARKET

Saturdays 2023 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.

Tuesday 21 Feb 2023

PINEHURST PRIMARY OPEN DAY

Call me... 083 775 00 55

Date:

destony@telkomsa.net

Friday 10 February 2023

Entry Cost: R85 via Quicket or R100 Late Entries on the day

Race Distances: 2km, 4km, 8km

Food stalls will be available

C ANNONS C REEK INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FUNRUN

Time: First race starts at 17:45

www.cannonscreek.co.za

021 531 0912 (Primary) 021 531 5011 (High) marketing@cannonscreek.co.za

CannonsSchool cannonscreekschool @cannons-creek

Classes for all ages

“Home Grown” is back at 1 Ridge Way from 9am to 1pm. Friendly fellowship comes free, and everything else represents good value for money – including all the ingredients for an excellent Saturday brunch. Call Joan on 082 810 1889.

Thursday 9 Feb 2023

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.

Friday 10 Feb 2023

CANNONS CREEK FUN RUN

A fun run for everyone including serious runners, joggers and plodders along the canal 2km, 4km and 8km. All finishers receive a medal except late entries. Fees: R85 (via Quicket) or R100 on the day. Come along to cheer and enjoy a good meal and the amazing energy! For more information, contact marketing@cannonscreek.co.za.

Visit the School in Rhone, Pinelands to see why the "Green School" is known as The School with Joy. To register for the Open Day, please email reception@phps.org.za or call 021 531 2783. See www.phps.org.za.

Wednesday 22 Feb 2023

PINELANDS STAMP CIRCLE

Meet at 6:30pm in the Activities Hall at Pinelands Library. This will be "An Evening with the Crawfords." All welcome. Call Martin 021 689 5050.

Friday 3 Mar 2023

GRACE PRIMARY OPEN DAY

Learn more about the "living education" offered by Grace Primary. The programme runs from 8:45am to 10:30am. See advert page 9 or email admin@graceprimary.org.

Sunday 5 March 2023

PINELANDS MUSLIM ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL MARKET DAY

Calling on all potential traders who would like to see their products at this market. Please WhatsApp Zulfa on 076 381 5219.

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! email muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za. Send content for the March 2023 edition by 17 Feb 2023. R160 ensures placement in the calendar.

This year’s objection period (GV2022) will start on 21 February 2023 and end on 30 April 2023. The period is rather short, so owners are advised to object immediately if they are unhappy about the new value determined by the council.

For more information

please contact the City of Cape Town on 086 010 3089 or email them on valuations@capetown.gov.za

DivorCe Care program

• What does the owner’s manual say?

• New relationships

• Financial survival

• Kid care

• Single sexuality

• Forgiveness

• Reconciliation

• Moving on, growing closer to God

Jan and Alan Minogue have been leading this ministry for the past fifteen years on behalf of Pinelands Baptist Church. It is sad that so many marriages don’t make it to the finishing post, often resulting in broken lives and broken families. The big question after divorce or separation is what now, how do we rebuild our lives???

Divorce Care is a 13 week program designed to take you through specific steps on the road to recovery from this traumatic experience. All the leaders have either been through divorce or are part of families that have had to deal with these issues. This course is comprehensive and each week a different aspect is dealt with using video based instruction/discussion and then further discussion afterwards:

• What’s happening to me?

• The road to healing/finding help

• Facing my anger

• Facing my depression

• Facing my loneliness

PINELANDS R3 650 000

We also look at the effects of divorce on children. The emotional response and the multi-related problems of anxiety, anger, depression low self-esteem, guilt and the dream that their parents will get back together. We address the mistakes parents make and the role of non-custodial parents. We deal with reconciliation in all its forms i.e. not just getting couples back together but more essentially, moving forward and communicating in a civilised way for the sake of the children.

We hope to start a new course in March this year. If you’re going through this process or have been for a number of years we highly recommend you get in touch with Jan and Alan (083 456 1196), or Pinelands Baptist Church (021 531 3922) to book. You can also email Alan at minoguea@mweb.co.za. Cost is minimal and funds are available if needed. The course is multicultural with diverse ethnic representation. We serve all communities and you don’t have to be part of our church to attend. 

Cannons Creek pupil raCes to st Helena

SOLE MANDATE

FAMILY HOME ON LARGE CORNER PLOT - Potential to create your perfect family home. Erf is big enough to extend house or to build a garden cottage with correct planning permissions. Three or four double bedrooms, study, two bathrooms, garage.

Web: RXBS-2831 • Abigail Hinchcliffe 084 577 3576

FFC No: 2022387352 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

PINELANDS R4 699 000

SOLE MANDATE

FAMILY HOME + MODERN COTTAGE - Spacious, well kept home retaining original character. O/p living / dining area, 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 baths, study, established garden, entertainment area. Separate large 1 bed cottage, o/p kitchen / living area.

Web: RXBS-2705 • Abigail Hinchcliffe 084 577 3576

FFC No: 2022387352 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

PINELANDS R4 899 000

Congratulations to Cannons Creek Grade 12 pupil, Alexander Botha who recently participated in the Cape Town to St Helena Yacht Race, which boasted a field of 13 yachts and 55 sailors. Alex was part of the crew taking on 1 700 nautical miles, on the boat called TINTIN, where they finished second overall in a time of 8 days, 7 hours and 29 minutes. Alex said, "I had an amazing time. The race was tough as the wind was hectic." The race began on 29 December 2022.

PINELANDS R3 950 000

OPEN MANDATE

SPACIOUS DOUBLE STOREY - 4 Bedrooms with bics, 2 bathrooms mes, guest toilet, 2 living areas, open plan dining and fitted kitchen, outside guest room, storage and laundry, pool, tree house, well point and 6 car garage!

Web: RXBS-2708

• Cindy Sarandis 071 081 4413

FFC No: 2022387356 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

SOLE MANDATE

HOME + COTTAGE IN OLDE PINELANDS - AMBIANCE! Main house with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, o/p living & dining room with fire place, fitted kitchen, scullery, entertainment room, cottage, lush garden, pool, tandem garage, electric fence perimeter wall.

Web: RXBS-2869 • Cindy Sarandis 071 081 4413

FFC No: 2022387356 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

OPEN MANDATE

FAMILY HOME / DUAL LIVING - NO TRANSFER DUTY! Double storey 4 bedroom home with 3 bathrooms, guest loo, 3 huge living areas, fitted kitchen, laundry, storage, cottage and outside room & bathroom with separate entrance and parking.

Web: RXBS-2586 • Cindy Sarandis 071 081 4413

FFC No: 2022387356 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

SOLE MANDATE

LIGHT, BRIGHT ONE BEDROOM - Sunny apartment. 1 very large bedroom with bics & ceiling fans, an enclosed balcony, spacious living & dining area with mountain views, fitted kitchen, tiled bathroom with bath, shower, toilet & basin. Undercover garage!

Web: RXBS-2827 • Cindy Sarandis 071 081 4413

FFC No: 2022387356 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

PINELANDS R1 399 000

PINELANDS R3 995 000

Pinelands High School is very proud of their matrics’ wonderful results. The class produced a Matriculation Pass Rate of 99% and a Bachelor's Pass Rate (University Entrance Pass) of 87%. In addition, there were some excellent individual results. Congratulations to the Top Achievers who all produced A Aggregates with 5 or more Subject A’s. Kaneez Abbas achieved a phenomenal 8 Subject A’s (including Further Studies Mathematics). Rachel MacIntyre, Aaliyah Sonnie and Safiya Abrahams all scored 7 Subject A’s. Pinelands High School congratulates and thanks all of the families of the matric class of 2022, as well as their teachers, care-givers and others in the school for ensuring that they finished so strongly. If there was ever a definition of a team effort, this was it. 

PNPS - LetS Start LearNiNg

There were many excited faces on 18 January 2023 the first day back at Pinelands North Primary School - parents, children and staff alike. To ease into the return to learning, parents were encouraged to come onto the school premises with their children and connect with teachers and other parents. In Grade R pupils at Red Roots began with half of each class starting on the first and second days respectively, to make the environment less overwhelming for the children at school for the first time. They kicked off with an obstacle course for the parents and pupils. Grade 1 pupils enjoyed a picnic with their parents and teachers and spent the rest of the day acclimatizing to the new environment with fun ice-breaking activities. The days of tear stained faces (either pupils or parents) are long forgotten as easing into the year proved fun for all.

Pinelands High School Top Achiever Matriculants from left to right: Aaliyah Sonnie, Kaneez Abbas, Neo Vorsatz, Nihaal Booley, Liam Buck, Safiya Abrahams, Rachel MacIntyre, Amirah Moses, Nabeelah Ismail, Qituwrah Effendi, Yusuf Khan, Chiara Laws. Insert: Gemma Trench.

the muse SPECIAL FEATURE EDUCATION & CHILDCARE

ST GEORGE’S CELEBRATES 175 YEARS

This year St George’s Grammar School celebrates 175 years as the oldest independent school in southern Africa. Looking back on the 175-year history we reflect on some of the major milestones:

1848 St George’s Grammar School was founded by Bishop Robert Gray on the grounds where the St George’s Cathedral is located today.

1897 Mr Samuel Pinchin was appointed as Headmaster and both his son and grandson attended the school. One of the sports houses at the school is named after him.

1903 The first school prospectus was printed.

1904 The school moved into a new building (designed by Sir Herbert Baker) next to the St George’s Cathedral. This building was declared a national monument 82 years later.

1906 Late in the year, the school’s past pupils’ association, The Old Georgian Union, held its first ever dinner. This would go on to become an annual event.

1924 Mr Cecil Shaw, after whom another of the school’s sports houses is named, was appointed vice-principal. He had a great passion for Cadets and led the school to win most of the interschools Cadet competitions.

1935 Rev Cecil Tugman was appointed Headmaster and the 3rd sports house at the school is named after him.

1936 The school managed to purchase the Bloemendal estate, thanks to Rev Tugman and his wife, who not only used their own savings but also had the foresight of eventually having the whole school on one campus in addition

to having enough space for all sporting facilities.

1948 The school celebrated its Centenary.

1949 The Prep School moved to the Bloemendal campus and was housed in prefab buildings.

1956 The swimming pool was opened on the Bloemendal campus and the interhouse gala was held.

1966 Mr Graham Dods was appointed Headmaster and went on to be the longest serving Headmaster in the school history having been with the school for 17 years. The building that houses the school’s Library and IT centres was named after him.

In August of this year, the Prep School officially moved into the newly built classroom block, which also housed a school hall.

1984 Mr Paul Cannon is appointed as Headmaster.

1989 The first girls joined the school.

1998 Mr Barry Hart was appointed Headmaster and the school celebrates 150 years.

2004 The school joins the international Round Square association.

2011 Mr Julian Cameron, the current Head, is appointed.

2020 The school successfully navigates the COVID 19 pandemic.

2023: A CELEBRATION OF 175 YEARS!

Tue

In the past 175 years, St George’s Grammar School has had the privilege of educating many dynamic girls and boys to become citizens of the world, whether it be in the field of medicine, teaching, the arts and many more.

We look forward to welcoming you to one of our Open Days small group tours and showing you how your child can flourish in our truly diverse environment.

For further information and to book your place on one of the tours, please visit www.sggs.co.za to do an online booking for one of the tours or contact Chantal on marketing.admissions@sggs.co.za

www.sggs.co.za

Cannons Creek Independent School is pleased to share the news that Mr Angus Morton has taken over the reins from Mr Mike van Haght, as High School Principal and Executive Head. The announcement was made to staff by Mr Jan de Waal (Transitional Board Chair) towards the end of the 2022 academic year.

Mr Morton has spent the largest part of his career in the independent school sector. He was a founding staff member of Somerset College in 1997. As a Deputy Head at Somerset College, he oversaw the academic and pastoral programmes. After leaving Somerset College at the end of 2006 Mr Morton spent two years as a Chemistry teacher at The Leys School in Cambridge, United Kingdom. Thereafter he joined Elkanah House High School as the Head of the Physical Sciences Department where he was appointed Head of Elkanah House High School in 2020. In 2022, Mr Morton became Head of Physical Sciences at Somerset West Private School. He describes himself as a passionate educator who is deeply committed to the holistic, relevant and valuesbased education that is common to all the schools that he has served in. His approach to education goes beyond academic achievement and focuses on the acquisition of skills, attitudes and values. He believes that all schools should remain at the forefront of authentic innovation and

challenge as they prepare their matriculants for the changing world they will face.

Mr Morton’s family is central to who he is and they spend much time together in the mountains or around a fire or pool. Relationships are key to him and this is no less true in his school life.

Mr Morton matriculated from Westerford High School and completed his Bachelor of Sciences degree and Post Graduate Higher Diploma in Education at UCT. When asked why he had applied for the post, he responded, "I have always taught in schools that emphasise the development of whole young people, helping them to reach their full potential with a broad holistic curriculum. I believe that this is most likely to be achieved in an environment where pupils believe they are respected and cared for. Cannons Creek is a small community school, a nurturing environment conducive to building healthy relationships and offering a broad, full programme. It is just the right fit." 

OPEN DAY

ROBOTICS

TECH KIDS TEACHING KIDS

Congratulations go to Texpand, winners of the 2023 Western Cape Regional Competition with their competition alliance partners, Syre. Texpand goes to the National Competition on 25th February with hopes to qualify for the World Championships to be held in Texas.

Texpand is a Pinelands based robotics team who, for two years running, has won the SA FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), a robotics competition for teenagers. The competition engages learners in competitive robot games through which they are able to learn valuable STEM, life and business skills.

Texpand has been privileged to be able to spend time with the bright grade 7 learners at Silverlea Primary, in Athlone, who were just starting in robotics. They had been sponsored a wonderful robotics lab with equipment, but did not have technical coaches and reached out for assistance in August 2022.

Texpand jumped into action since their mission centers on expanding STEM skills through robotics. Robotics can be made available to more people if the need for expensive and scarce technical coaches is

reduced. This has been achieved in their own team, where they learned to access online resources to teach themselves, access the expertise of more experienced teams in the USA and used this information to teach other kids. The Texpand team (aged 13-16) spent many hours teaching and running workshops at Silverlea, on mechanical design, coding, systems control and basic maths for robotics. With Texpand’s support the Silverlea team produced great outcomes, competing in the regional FIRST Lego League competition, placing 3rd in the game and winning the award for best design! Hanaan from Silverlea said “Our session with the Texpand team was so much fun. I thought that Robotic Design and Coding was hard to understand but with their assistance I realized that it’s not that bad.”

Friday 3 March Programme runs

8:45 - 10:30am

We are a thriving, competitively priced independent school in Pinelands with small classes, using a rich and stimulating curriculum, and striving to serve the child as a whole person.

8 Protea Close Pinelands

RSVP 021 532 1816

admin@graceprimary.org

If you would like to learn more about the ‘living education’ offered by Grace Primary, please join us at this event to see the school in action and ask all your questions.

www .graceprimary.org

GracePrimary-S4-136.indd 1

There are high hopes for a continued partnership to help develop Silverlea and other schools into thriving and selfsustaining robotics teams, with the more experienced students learning how to pass their skills on to their younger schoolmates.

To learn more about Texpand’s work at Silverlea or support them in their mission, see texpand.org.za 

From Michelle Buckle.

Texpand, winners of 2023 WC Competition, with their robot

OUR ADVISORY TEAM

By Sue Torr Director Crue Invest

Investing through a retirement annuity

The past few decades have seen a rise in the popularity of new-generation retirement annuities which, being housed on LISP platforms, offer flexibility, transparency, and favourable investment costs.

CONTRIBUTIONS ARE FLEXIBLE

Retirement annuities are governed by the Pension Funds Act and are tax-efficient investment vehicles designed for individual investors and employees who wish to supplement their workplace retirement fund or invest for their retirement in their personal capacity. Investors have the flexibility to determine their own contribution plan (monthly, quarterly, annual, or ad hoc contributions being possible) making it ideal for those who earn irregular commissions, incentives, or bonuses. With invested funds being inaccessible before age 55, investors can avoid the temptation of dipping into their retirement nest egg prematurely.

RA OPTION FOR 1/3 CASH AND 2/3 FOR THE COMPULSORY ANNUITY

With a few exceptions, investors can only retire from a retirement annuity from age 55 onwards, although they are entitled to stop contributing towards their RA at any stage without fear of early termination penalties. There is no maximum age at which you need to stop contributing to your RA or by which you are required to access your funds. Once you decide to retire from your RA, you may withdraw up to one-third as a cash lump sum, while the remaining two-thirds must be used to purchase a compulsory annuity. On passing, your death benefit will be allocated by the trustees of the fund in terms of Section 37C of the Pension Funds Act which makes it their duty to distribute the funds equitably amongst your financial dependants.

RETIREMENT ANNUITIES ARE TAX EFFICIENT

As an RA investor, you may deduct your contributions to a retirement annuity up to 27.5% of taxable income for tax purposes,

bearing in mind that the 27.5% limit applies to the aggregate of premiums to all the retirement funds that you contribute to, with the overall tax-deductible limit being R350 000 per year. Further, retirement annuities are exempt from tax on dividends and interest. The costs and fees in a unit trust-based RA are clearly broken down so that investors have full insight into how their money is being invested.

NO COSTS OR PENALTIES FOR CHANGES

Unit trust RAs are flexible by design in that they allow you to structure a portfolio from a selection of underlying unit trusts. You are free to amend your contributions as often as you wish, transfer your investment to another platform or stop contributing altogether – with no costs, penalties or transaction fees being charged.

BEST HANDLED BY A DISCRETIONARY FUND MANAGER

Most investment platforms in South Africa offer the solution for a portfolio manager to choose a selection of local and international shares which can be included in your retirement investment and actively managed. As portfolio management and the selection of the underlying unit trusts is a specialist field that requires expertise in investment capability, research and skill, this function can be outsourced to a discretionary fund manager who, because of economies of scale, very often offers competitive investment fees. Bear in mind, however, that any RA is subject to Regulation 28 of the Pension Funds Act which means that your investment will be subject to certain restrictions in terms of asset classes and risk exposure.

GOOD TO INCLUDE RETIREMENT ANNUITIES IN YOUR INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO

With so many advantages, retirement annuities as long-term, tax-efficient investment vehicles are difficult to ignore and are worthy components of a carefully structured investment portfolio. 

Corlene Botha

Odendaal

Botha

is an authorised financial services provider regulated by the Financial Services Board, FSP No. 19025.

Creating and protecting your wealth

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.

PINEHURST SENIOR AWARDS CEREMONY 2022

Pinehurst Primary celebrated their senior Awards ceremony on the 15th of November 2022. It was an occasion of pride and celebration and a wonderful time was had by all. The school was blessed with a hall full of parents, and the children shone with excellent behaviour and support for one another. Entertainment was by the choir singing “Thuli Thuli”, and the orchestra performing “We don’t talk about Bruno” and the “Avengers” theme song. The Blues band finished the evening off with a Jazz performance. It was an honour to recognise the students for their hard work and dedication. The Pinehurst Drama Cup was won by Luke Smith, who also walked away with the James Trophy for Proficiency in English. Nasiphi Sabile was awarded both the Turner Trophy for Communication in Xhosa and the Vlok Trophy for Proficiency in Afrikaans.

The Sportsman of the Year Award was shared by Joshua Philander (left) and Samuel Redfern (right). Joshua was named Cricketer of the Year, Athlete of the Year (Boy) and won the Sarah O’Neil Trophy for his sporting endeavours beyond the parameters of school activities. Samuel was also named the Hockey Player of the Year (Boy).

The Sportswoman of the Year was Nina McDiarmid. She was also named the female Cross Country Runner of the Year.

Kate Bender received the Service to the School award, handed to her by special guest, Mrs Powell, who is retiring after several years as the teachers’ assistant in Foundation Phase - she will be greatly missed!

Hooley Music Award – Amara Chiat (pictured here with Head of Music, Mrs O’Reilly). Amara also won the Gleeson-Baird Art Trophy.

The Headmaster’s Award went to Gemma Holland and Jonathan Reed, pictured here with the Principal, Mr Carroll. Gemma was named female Soccer Player of the Year and won the Sportsmanship Award. Another award for Gemma was the Swam Fellowship Award as voted by her fellow classmates, as well as the Founders’ Pupils Award, in addition to coming second in Grade 7. Jonathan was also given the Sportsmanship Award and the Courtesy Award.

We look forward to meeting more property owners in 2023 whether it’s for a free no obligation valuation, property advice or to assist with selling your property!

We remain committed to helping our community as well as surrounding communities in 2023 through our collaboration with NETwork, an NGO based in Pinelands. Our final donation collection drive for last year was very successful and really made a difference to all of those that benefited from the food donations as well as clothing and houseware goods.

Some of the donations collected in 2022

Kate Binos is pictured on the right, receiving the Anderson Academic Award for coming first in Grade 7.

Cycling in the Netherlands

By Brian Watkyns

A country well equipped for cycling

Recently Ann and I spent a few weeks cycling in the Netherlands with our two grandchildren aged 9 and 11. The land is level (one third being reclaimed land) with a mild climate and not much wind. The short distances between towns coupled with an amazing cycling infrastructure makes the Netherlands an ideal country to explore on a bicycle. The entire country is linked by cycle lanes with each numbered and clearly signposted. Free cellphone apps are available for download enabling you to plan your route in advance and does not require data or Wi-Fi as you follow your route. Cycling

encouraged in the Netherlands

We borrowed two cycles from a couple who were about to travel to South Africa to spend a few weeks in the Kruger Park, however cycles and eBikes can be easily hired. In fact residents are encouraged to cycle and companies pay a higher rate of compensation per kilometre for those who cycle to work as opposed to those who use their motor vehicles.

Remember to "keep right"

Our first challenge was to keep to the righthand side of the cycle lanes and roads. In many sections the cycle lane is shared by pedestrians and scooters (but not motorbikes). On some routes cars may also use a section of the cycle lane with signs and road markings reminding drivers that they are using the lane as a guest only. In general motorists are extremely polite to cyclists, which is no surprise because where an accident involves a cyclist, the motorist is automatically seen to be at fault. At signalised intersections pedestrians and cyclists often cross at different times. This can be confusing. Some signalised intersections have sensors in the cycle lane which automatically change the signal in favour of the approaching cyclists. Day trip from Leischendam to Den Haag Our base was in Leischendam from where we made one day journeys. The town is a 30-minute cycle from the centre of the capital, Den Haag (The Hague). The particular route we followed to the capital was parallel to a major road. On one side is the Haagse Bos Forest with public playparks and the Huis ten Bosch Palace built in 1645 which is the residence of King Willem-Alexander and family. The guards on duty at the gate of the residence would give us a cheery greeting as we passed. I guess we must have stood out as clumsy tourists on bicycles.

Beautiful varied scenery

Most cycle lanes are parallel to, but not necessarily close to or next to, major roads or train lines. Along the routes you could be in the countryside among grazing sheep or could be cycling though the middle of a town in a narrow street with quaint old shops. Along most routes you will find play parks with benches and the ever-present

zip line. The country was in the grip of a heatwave but in the approximately 600kms we cycled, we came across only one very welcome water fountain.

Great ride around Vlietland Lake area

Possibly the most enjoyable cycle was around Vlietland Lake area consisting of three lakes with a total surface area of 130 ha surrounded by woods, creeks, meadows and parks. The formation of the lake began in 1969 when sand was excavated for use in civil engineering projects. Among the attractions are a number of small beaches, a water park, a boat club, sailing club, camping spots and a waterfront with a small harbour. We unsuccessfully tried to avoid the “naturist” recreation area before hot footing out of the area.

Huge estates in Voorburg

Cycling through Voorburg, considered to be the oldest city in the Netherlands, we were surprised at the large size of the properties/ estates near the town centre, taking into account that the Netherlands is the most densely populated country in Europe. While crime appears to be absolutely minimal, it is prudent to lock your bicycle to a bicycle rack - along with an added distinguishing feature so that you can find your cycle among hundreds of similar looking cycles. Cycling is the best!

Cycling one way and using public transport back is seldom an option as few trains, trams or buses permit cycles. We used a bus once. The journey showed us without a doubt that their bus drivers are trained by a Cape Town taxi driver. Train and trams are fast and efficient. A travel card can be used on all public transport modes. However the easiest, cheapest mode of transport is a bicycle with the added benefit of getting exercise and being eco-friendly. 

Nancy Will

"Age is just a number" says Pinelander Nancy Will who turned 70 last year in October. A long time member of the Pinelands Athletic Club, Nancy has continued her streak of record breaking runs and hopes to continue her success into 2023 and along the way, encourage others to keep running.

BREAKING RECORDS AT 70!!

Nancy Will, member of the Pinelands Athletic Club, turned 70 on 2 October 2022. She was dreading getting to the 70+ Running Age-Category as it sounded so OLD and DECREPIT!! However, in the running world, it has already had some perks!! Nancy broke the South African and Western Province 10km Record, in the 70+ age category, of 49:42 at the Ommiedraai 10km Race on 9 October running 49:01. She set an even faster Record Time at the SPAR Grand Prix Elite 10km Race on 23 Oct running 48:52!!

SA AND WP RECORDS TUMBLE

Another South African and Western Province Record tumbled when she ran the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on 16 October in a time of 3:44:34 breaking the existing 70+ age category record of 3:58:10. Little did Nancy realize that the 70+ World Record Holder over this distance, Jeannie Rice from the USA, was also running and at one stage had been a mere 4 seconds behind her. But Jeannie dropped back and finished more than 15 minutes behind Nancy. Nancy’s time is the sixth fastest in the world over this distance for a 70+ female runner. Three faster times run by Jeannie Rice and two by Helga Miketta from Germany, puts her as the 3rd fastest 70+ in the World!!!

NANCY IS ON A RECORD BREAKING ROLL

Yet another Western Province Record fell at the Don Lock 15km Race on 30 October when she ran 79:20 breaking the previous record of 81:06. Then at the Titan’s Mitchell Plain Race on the 19 th November she broke the 70+ 21.1km SA and WP Record, in a time of 1:47:01. The previous record was 1:47:55. Following on, Nancy broke the SA plus WP record for the 15km AVBOB race in Tableview on Saturday 10 December with a time of 76:09.

NUMEROUS RACES UNDER HER BELT

Nancy is not new to running and has been a member of the Pinelands Athletic Club for 30 years. She serves on the Pinelands Athletic Club Committee and is a member of the WPA Road Running Commission. Nancy has represented Western Province regularly throughout her running career at South African Championships in all Road Running and Cross Country Events. She has run 20 Two Oceans 56km Races and 7 Comrades Marathons. The last run was in 2017 with her sons Donovan and Damian also participating. She recorded a new 6069 age category World Best Time of 4:12:55 for 50km in June 2015 at the Two Oceans Marathon. She set a 63 year old World Single Age Record of 2:23:30 for 30km in January 2016. Among her highlights in 2022 was her overall win at the Mauritius Marathon.

"Being retired has given me the freedom to train when it suits me, and not having to get up to train at 5:15 in the morning as I did when I worked. I don't follow any special diet. My pre-race meal is banana, honey and peanut butter toast. Daily supplements: calcium, magnesium and vitamin C."

Nancy still holds the following records: South African and Western Province

• 10km 37:12 1994

• 15km 56:54 1994

• 21.1km 82:01 1995

• 30km 2:02:47 1995

• 42.2km 2:54:39 1995

• 56km 4:08:54 1995

• COMRADES 7:12:34 1995

Her goal for 2023 is to inspire all to keep running as age is just a number, to attempt to break all the 70+ records and especially to represent Western Province at all the South African Road Running Championships.

Wishing you every success Nancy! 

Image by Leozette Roode taken at the Growthpoint 10km race December 2022

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By Nina Timm

Cook, teacher, blogger and author of

Easy Cooking

from

Nina's Kitchen

and Maklike Etes uit Nina se Kombuis!

Baked Feta and Olives

Serves 4

Ingredients

2 x 100 g Feta with Black Pepper crackers.

1 x 200 g sachet pitted green olives

1 x 200 g sachet pitted black olives

2 cloves garlic – thinly sliced

125 ml sun-dried tomatoes – optional

1 chilli – optional

2-3 sprigs rosemary

45 ml / 3 T olive oil

salt and black pepper

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200 0C.

2. Place the two blocks of feta in a baking dish. Drizzle with all the oil over and around the cheese.

3. Add all the other ingredients and bake for about 10 – 15 minutes until the feta has a light golden colour around the edges.

4. Serve warm with plenty of warm bread or slices of crispy garlic toast.

5. Warm sourdough bread with cut fresh herbs such as basil and mini meatballs make a lovely addition too.

6. If you stock up on cheese, different kinds, you will always be prepared to whip up something quick and delicious.

How can I chop and change this recipe?

1. Replace the olives with cocktail tomatoes and bake in the same way as the olives.

2. You can use a Brie or Camembert Cheese instead of the feta. Delicious.

3. Use a different herb such as thyme or oregano.

Greek-Style baked Feta with Olives

February is known to be one of the hottest months of the year for us here in South Africa. By now, life is back to normal. Children are back to their school routine and mom and dad look forward to the next holiday. After a very long day at school, the last thing I want to do is cook. This recipe takes very little effort and can even be done on the braai.

The Greek-style Baked Feta with olives is a spin on a cheese platter, I suppose. I mean you have cheese, bread, olives, olive oil and meatballs. So although you have all the elements, the difference is just that you made an effort. So imagine sitting on

a Greek Island, mesmerised by the most awesome sunset, sipping small glasses of wine and nibbling on this delicious treat. The Greek-style Baked Feta with olives literally takes a few minutes to make. It bakes for 10 – 15 minutes and then that’s it. Entertaining does not get easier than this. A crusty sourdough bread or crackers complete this meal. To make this a lowcarb meal, enjoy it with seed crackers. Just a quick reminder:

Stock up the pantry with these staples –olives, sun dried tomatoes, biscuits, nuts, crackers - you can literally have a stunning snack for guests.

Portrait: The Photographic Journey Food shot: Nina Timm