the Muse - Apr 2023

Julian Cameron Nina Timm

on SGGS 175 Year History

“SOMETIMES IT’S A LITTLE BETTER TO TRAVEL THAN TO ARRIVE”

In his book, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, Robert M. Pirsig picks at many threads to investigate his philosophy of life. One of these threads is the proposition of the title of this editorial, “Sometimes it’s a little better to travel than to arrive”. While he speaks of a literal journey, it perfectly applies to life journeys, both short and long. So, in the early part of this year, with quite a long and uncertain road ahead, there is perhaps some wisdom to be had from him for this 'journey'.

Firstly, our usual reaction to difficulty or uncertainty is to just get through it as quickly as possible. As he puts it ‘‘We want to make good time...”, But, when we also respect and value the journey, difficult as it may be, we are more likely to slow down and recognise and claim the wisdom and rewards on offer to those who are open to them. “When you want to hurry something, that means you no longer care about it and want to get on to other things”. Secondly, while having goals gives us some purpose and direction, arrival gives us the reward but the experience and richness is found on the road... “To live only for some future goal is shallow. It’s the sides of the mountain which sustain life, not the top. Here’s where things grow... but of course, without the top you can’t have any sides. It’s the top that defines the sides.” Arrivals, sweet as they are, are fleeting. Most of our lives are spent along the way, so best we make the most of the time spent on the road, be it a highway, dusty gravel or even a detour.

Lastly, he observes “What makes this world so hard to see clearly is not its strangeness, but its usualness. Familiarity can blind you too.” I think he is reminding us to stay curious and keep seeking better understanding of what we think we already know. The subtle nuances in the everyday humdrum are where the secrets to life hide. The big tourist attractions may excite us momentarily, but watching common human interaction in a café while sipping your coffee will always hold an irresistible fascination and an invaluable education for us. I hope you enjoy this edition.

Max Schutte

Editor and Advertising

Max Schutte

Writer and Photographer

Glynnis Schutte

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muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za

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Little Swift

The smallest of the Swifts, the Little Swift, has a square tail with a broad white rump patch that wraps around the flanks making the white rump visible from below. It also has a large white throat patch. Swifts are distinguished from swallows by having scythe-shaped wings as compared to the more regular-shaped wings of swallows. The call is a high pitched screeching, especially while flying in tight flocks during display flights. Breeding time in South Africa is September to April when the female lays 1-3 eggs in a nest which is a closed bowl of grass and feathers glued together with saliva. They have also been known to take over swallow nests.

© 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.

www.pinelandsdirectory.co.za

Featured bird text by John McFarlane,

Muse editor Max Schutte

GOLD (even scrap gold) remember when you lost that earring and buried the other in your jewellery box?

up to 1945 (1900 - 1920 are best)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday 1 April 2023

PINELANDS METHODIST CHURCH "HOME GROWN" MARKET

It’s no joke. The Market is back in the church hall at 2 Union Avenue from 9am to 12:30 pm. Open to all (yes, even ‘fools’) with free admission. No charge either for friendly fellowship. Various value-for-money stalls and plenty of good food available. Call Joan on 082 810 1889.

Mon-Tues 3-4 April 2023

JOURNEY TO THE CROSS AT PINELANDS METHODIST CHURCH

All are welcome to a meditative walk at your own pace. The venue is at the church at 2 Union Avenue and will be open on: Monday 3rd: 2pm to 8pm Tuesday 4th: 9am to 12 noon. For more information contact the church office on 021 531 8972.

Tuesday 4 April 2023

PINELANDS BAPTIST CHURCH DIVORCE CARE COURSE BEGINS

Meeting at 14, The Triangle, the course will run every Tuesday for 13 weeks commencing 4th April at 6pm with a meal provided. Cost of meals and manual will be R750 per person. Please do not let this put you off - funding is available where necessary. We look forward to hearing from anyone going through divorce or separation or even thinking about this. Let us know if you are interested in a Divorce Care for Kids course. Call Alan Minogue on 083 456 1196 or the church on 083456 1196.

Wednesday 5 April 2023

HAPPY HOUR SOCIAL GROUP

Meet at the Pinelands library from 9:30am to 11am for a Book Chat.

All welcome. Call Santa at 021 531 2600.

Thursday 6 April 2023

WESTERN CAPE BLOOD SERVICE

Do something remarkable - donate blood at St Stephens Church Main Hall, Central Square, from 3pm until 7:30pm. Confirm times at 021 507 6300.

Wednesday 19 April 2023

PAGE TURNERS BOOK CLUB

Join the adult book club from 10am to 11am in the Pinelands Library Committee Room. Enjoy a book chat by special guest, feminist researcher and author about her debut novel, The Other Me.

RSVP: Verna 021 814 1780 / Lauren 021 814 1777.

Wednesday 26 April 2023

PINELANDS STAMP CIRCLE

Meet at 6:30pm in the Activities Hall at Pinelands Library. This will be an allmembers Postcard evening. All welcome. Call Martin 021 689 5050.

Saturdays 2023 9am to 1pm

BRIC-A-BRAC SALES FOR KAPS

Keep an eye out for Gloria running the Karoo Animal Protection Society (KAPS) bric-a-brac table at the Pop-Up nursery at Pinelands Club from 9am to 1pm. Donations of dog/ cat food are welcome. These will be taken to KAPS in Barrydale.

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! email muse@pinelandsdirectory.co.za. Send content for the May 2023 edition by 14 April 2023. R160 ensures placement in the calendar.

On 24 February, the Board, teachers and children of Grace Primary School welcomed a variety of guests to a dedication event celebrating the completion of the final phase of their permanent premises in Protea Close. The guests included, amongst others, parents, neighbours, former staff, the building team, local school Principals, a representative from ISASA (Independent Schools Association of South Africa) and Mrs Govender, from the WCED (Western Cape Education Department). Thankfully it was beautiful weather for an outside event in the central garden area. Guests were given tours by members of the Grade 7 class, followed by a dedication service and refreshments in the lovely new staff-room with its mountain view! Some beautiful cupcakes in school colours were prepared

On Monday 6 March, students, staff and parents were privileged to attend a lecture by Pinelands High School alumnus, Dr Chris Leatt. This was the first lecture of 2023 in the termly Pinelands High School Academic Lecture Series which aims to expose students and the community to the latest groundbreaking research in a wide variety of fields, inspiring them to pursue their passions and exciting career paths. It was a wonderful opportunity to hear about Dr Leatt’s life and his journey to creating the internationally renowned LEATT neck brace for motorcyclists and mountain bike riders. LEATT has developed into a headto-toe protection brand, now creating a wide range of gear that is designed to save the lives of riders in a variety of twowheeled sports. LEATT Corp has become so successful that it now trades on the US Stock Market. Dr Leatt spoke about finding passion in what you do, how his curiosity for neurosurgery, combined with the tragic loss of a friend in a motorcycle accident, inspired him to search for better

GRACE PRIMARY SCHOOL PHASE II BUILDING DEDICATION ON 24 FEBRUARY 2023

Construction, various professionals on our parent body, the Governing Body and Clive Alfino who assisted with management. He also thanked the neighbours of the school, who have, like the children and teachers, had to bear the brunt of the noise and disruption. The ceremony was concluded after the Grade 5 class gave a beautiful recitation of Psalm 127 and two pupils, JoJo de Witt (Gd 6) and Isabelle Sole (Gd 7), cut the ribbon to signify the official opening of the building.

for all our children and parents to enjoy. Judy McComb (Co-Founder and Director of Educational Philosophy) shared the beginnings of the Grace Primary story, followed by Karen Wood, school Principal, who continued the story from her perspective after joining the school in January 2020. Chris de Witt (Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board of Governors) then gave a short biblical perspective on the building fabric being a privileged space where children could grow up as whole people, maturing in character and creatively engaging with ideas, with others, and with the world around them. Finally, Darrin McComb (Co-Founder and Building Project Manager) thanked all those who had been involved in bringing this building project to completion, particularly the team from Brice

The founders subsequently discovered that the date of this event had unintentionally commemorated, to the day, the transfer of the piece of land from Garden Cities NPO to Grace Primary NPO seven years earlier! While there have been many challenges along the way (not least when delays happened through COVID times), it was great to take a step back and see the amazing progress the Lord has enabled for the school: from starting in 2014 with 14 children a joint Grade 1&2 class in the minor hall of the Congregational Church, to now having a facility for Grades R to 7 along with a library, large music/aftercare room, art/science room, additional music room and administrative spaces and nearly 120 children. We give Him all the thanks and praise for giving us this space to grow and for enabling the children to flourish in their ‘living education’. From Sophie de Witt.

PINELANDS HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC LECTURE SERIES

protection for those participating in high speed sports. Dr Leatt displayed some of LEATT’s latest protective gear, made of 100% recyclable material. This interactive part of the session led to many curious questions from the audience, ranging from

how to start a company, to how the nonNewtonian materials work in the newest cycling helmets. Dr Leatt demonstrated the exceptional qualities that Pinelands High School hopes to instil in every one of its students. From Barbara Coaton. 

Above: Pinelands High School students were enthralled and inspired by Dr Leatt’s passion, innovation and willingness to share his knowledge.

Grace Primary School Founders: Chris de Witt, Sophie de Witt, Karen Wood, Judy McComb and Darrin McComb

A year ago the WP Peninsula (PENS) indoor hockey team finished fourth at the Inter Provincial Tournament (IPT). This year the team returned to Durban for the IPT 2023. The team were the underdogs but they persevered all the way to the final finishing in 2nd place. The WP PENS ladies team can be immensely proud of their silver medals. Their unity and selfless discipline took them all the way to the final to compete against South Africa's best. The week began with a strong start where WP PENS beat the KZN Mynahs 4 -1 in the opening game. Day 2 started with a tough game against KZN Raiders and the 0-7 score line was quite harsh considering the good hockey that was played. The evening of day 2 saw WP PENS play Mpumalanga in their last pool game which was an effective quarter-final. WP PENS needed a draw to progress and won 4-1. Day 3 was the semi final. WP PENS took on

SILVER MEDALS FOR WP PENS!

the might of the Northern Blues who had 4 players who have represented South Africa in their squad and one Namibian international player. The team showed huge amounts of grit, determination and character to draw the game 1-1, having led most of it. The game went to shoot-outs and Michelle Tullis as well as Michelle Winter scored emphatically. Manisha Desai (former Cannons Creek Primary student) managed to save one shoot-out and force their last taker wide. WP PENS ladies went into their first ever indoor IPT final! History makers! How to beat the KZN Raiders who had won 6 of the previous 7 tournaments was the challenge posed to the ladies. The WP

PENS came out firing. After conceding early they went on to score 2 goals through Sillie Mxinwa and Andrea Leader and they led 2-1. KZN Raiders got the rub of the green with a questionable call and then went on to lead 3-2. WP PENS took their goalkeeper off in the closing stages and threw everything they had at the KZN Raiders but were unable to equalise. KZN Raiders triumphing 3-2 to win their 7th title in 8 years in a thrilling final.

Three former PHS alumni Chelsea Jeffery, Andrea Leader and newly matriculated Emily Adams (who didn’t concede a penalty corner goal all tournament) represented the team which was coached by Pinelands High School first team coach Luke Thönissen. The WP A side ladies finished 4th and the WP men won their 4th title in four years captained by former PHS learner Jody Erasmus. It is great to see Pinelands so well represented on the indoor hockey court at IPT level.



WP PENS 2023 TEAM Back Row: (L to R) Chelsea Jeffery, Sillie Mxinwa, Nidia Vermeulen, Baylee Engelke, Ashleigh Thomas, Morgan Barnard, Michelle Winter Front Row: Emily Adams, Michelle Tullis (VC), Bianca van Reenen (manager), Luke Thönissen (coach), Andrea Leader (C), Manisha Desai.

PHS alumni Andrea Leader, Emily Adams, Chelsea Jeffery & Luke Thönissen at IPT 2023

FABULOUS SUNSET CONCERT

From Barbara Coaton, Marketing Director, Pinelands high School: On 3 March 2023 Pinelands High School held their annual Sunset Concert on the shaded lawns in front of the school. The spectacular evening included performances by Pinelands High School’s Marimba Band, Mixed Band, Jazz Combo, Choir, Mass Choir, Flute Ensemble,

String Ensemble as well as performances by Pinelands North Primary School and Pinehurst Primary School music groups. The turnout was exceptional, with over 600 people coming in support of all the students from the participating schools. Our visitors picnicked on the lawn in front of the school enjoying the range of refreshments available in the lovely summer evening air. Well done to all the students who performed and congratulations to the Pinelands High School Music Department who put together such a wonderful evening of music and entertainment.

From Mrs O’Reilly - Head of Music, Pinehurst Primary School: Eighty Pinehurst families lapped up the last few sunrays under an African sky on the Pinelands High School lawns at their annual Sunset Concert on Friday 3 March 2023. The Pinehurst learners waited in high expectation for their stage call. Then, the moment arrived. The Senior Choir summed up the experience with the title of their first song Best Day Of My Life, followed by two beautiful Namibian songs, Okantje and Tuli, Tuli. After a quick change over for a few learners, the Pinehurst Orchestra gave a strong performance of the Avengers. The programme was aptly concluded with What Makes You Beautiful Mr Carroll, Pinehurst Principal, was visibly proud of each young musician who represented themselves well, sharing their musical talents. The groups performed under the baton of Mrs Cerfontyne, assisted by Miss Witbooi, Mrs O’Reilly and Mr Watkins. A huge shout out goes to Mr Garth Kayster, the Director of Music at Pinelands High School and his team for hosting this remarkable outdoor event.

PINELANDS POLO TRIUMPH

Congratulations to Pinelands High School boys' water polo team on winning the B-League final against Herzlia on Wednesday 8th of March 2023 at SACS. In the league are a number of schools, namely: Camps Bay, Parklands College, Fish Hoek, Elkanah House, Somerset College, Paarl Boys, Bridge House and Fairmont. It was a closely contested affair, with the scores level at full time (9-9). It then came down to penalty shootouts and Pinelands High School was victorious. Well done to the manager, Mr Westcott, and the coach, Alex de Bruyn (Pinelands High School Matric 2021), for having mentored and coached the team to a memorable win. It crowned a busy Term 1 2023 for the 1st Team water polo boys who played a total of 18 matches in this short space of time.

Pinehurst

PHS

PHS

PHS

PHS

PNPS

PINELANDS RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION (PRRA)

This month we explore the portfolios of two of the committee members of the PRRA. These community volunteers work tirelessly to "Keep Pinelands Green".

• Building Plans: Jessica White

Pinelands is interesting in that quite a large area of Pinelands is considered a Heritage area which has very defined requirements when it comes to building changes that may be made. Property alterations with departures require PRRA comment and often input from neighbours. In addition, property alterations that fall within the Heritage Overlay Zone require the Heritage Advisory Committee comment. This process is possibly most productive and least time consuming if plans are issued to PRRA for comment prior to being formally issued to the City of Cape Town. (Failing this, the CoCT will forward submissions on to the PRRA for comment as part of their approval process.) In collaboration with

the Recreation and Parks Portfolio, the Plans Portfolio follows up with the relevant authorities with regards to mature trees being cut down and removed without the required CoCT permissions in the Heritage area. If you are concerned about any strange building activity in the area, simply let the councillor’s office or the PRRA know. The records will be checked and an inspector sent if needed.

• Recreation and Parks: Marilynn McNamara

There is an ongoing battle to keep our Parks and Public Open Spaces safe and useable. The City of Cape Town is struggling with staffing and having problems with contracts on hold. This is what happened when the verges were not being mowed. Two years of Covid caused a backlog of tasks especially in the Parks and Open Spaces department. Marilynn works closely with the various City departments and has established a clear understanding of the needs of the suburb. The PRRA is now collaborating with the City on various projects including: Repairs to benches in parks and public open spaces; Eradication of alien weeds: (Patterson's curse and Devil's thorns); Mowing of parks and public open spaces; Planned maintenance schedule for and repairs to the parks play

equipment; Installation of parks sign boards; Planting of trees in parks and public open spaces; No mow initiative in selected parks to allow for spring flowers; Reintroducing indigenous flowers to selected parks and public open spaces, in cooperation with the City's Biodiversity Assessment team.; Removal of dead trees/ tree branches; Trimming of shrubs and trees along the Elsieskraal river.

How can you help?

Submit a service report (C3) to the City of Cape Town to report a fault or to log an issue that needs municipal attention. Go to www.capetown.gov.za/servicerequests or call 0860 103 089. If you would like to escalate a C3 request then contact the CoCT WhatsApp group run by Paul Holdsworth or report directly to Councillor Davids. 

THORNTON R1 250 000

JOINT MANDATE

NEED IT ALL & MORE - Grandeur from a bygone age, ample space. 2 reception rooms, 4 beds, 3.5 baths, separate entrance. Multiple options for dual living or passive income, making it ideal for use as a guesthouse or student accommodation.

Web: RXBS-2909 • Abigail Hinchcliffe 084 577 3576

FFC No: 2022387352 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

PINELANDS R3 950 000

SOLE MANDATE

CUTE AS A BUTTON! - Perfect for lock-up-and-go lifestyle. Ideal for first-time buyers or those looking to downsize. Light, bright open-plan living / kitchen area with 2 bedrooms, family bathroom, garden and courtyard in a secure complex.

Web: RXBS-2671 • Abigail Hinchcliffe 084 577 3576

FFC No: 2022387352 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

PINELANDS R4 695 000

SOLE MANDATE

SECURE 2 BED WITH BACK GARDEN - Secure duplex in gated complex, two upstairs bedrooms & bathroom with o/p living room & fitted kitchen. Private back courtyard, carport for your exclusive use. Communal pool & visitor’s parking. Levies R980pm.

Web: RXBS-2885 • Cindy Sarandis 071 081 4413

FFC No: 2022387356 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

PINELANDS R4 595 000

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

OPEN MANDATE

ENTERTAINER WITH EVERYTHING - LIST: 4 Aircon bedrooms, 2 baths, mes, vaulted ceilings, enormous living room, fireplace, tv room, jacuzzi, braai room, bar, eat in kitchen, scullery, decked pool, 4 car garage, domestic quarters, storage and secure. 

Web: RXBS-2926 • Cindy Sarandis 071 081 4413

FFC No: 2022387356 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

JOINT MANDATE

HOUSE WITH 2 SEPARATE ENTRANCES - Large family home with dual living & passive income opportunities, all you need for a busy family. Main house: 2 receptions, 3 beds, 3 baths. Direct access to garage. Two 1 reception / 1 bed apartments.

Web: RXBS-2671 • Abigail Hinchcliffe 084 577 3576

FFC No: 2022387352 • Property Practitioner

RE/MAX Property Associates: 021 531 4477

Above: Recent clean up at the Oval.

THORNTON R3 200 000

Pinelands siblings survive the lost island!

Pinelands siblings, Tasneem and Nadia Arend, star in an adventure story titled Surviving the Lost Island. The book, which was published in December, finds the girls stranded alone on an island where their days are filled with danger, fun and adventure. Long-time Pinelands resident, and avid reader Penny Smith, has always shown a keen interest in the girls' journey and their achievements, hence the Q & A session with the author and father of the girls, Ziyaad (Rudi Swart), to find out more about the book.

Firstly, congratulations on writing the book. Tell me, what is the girls’ history with Pinelands?

We moved to Pinelands in 2000 and the girls attended Meerendal Pre-Primary School, Pinelands North Primary School (PNPS) and Cannons Creek High School. They have featured in previous editions of the MUSE. Both for sporting achievements and Tasneem as host of a radio talk show at the age of 16, and Nadia as Cannons Creek Head Prefect and School Dux.

Some fathers will read stories to their children, but seldom write them a book. What motivated the book?

When the girls were little, I would put them to bed at night with a story. At the time the Survivor series on TV was one of their favourite programs, so I told a story about them in an island adventure. But, a couple of minutes into the story they would be fast asleep. This happened every night and they never got to hear the real adventure part of their own personal story, so I decided to publish it in a book for them.

The story is fictional and was aimed at entertaining them when they were little.

They are in their twenties now. Do you think they will still be able to associate themselves with the story?

I have included some memory joggers that make the story personal, such as naming the animals they adopt on the island the same as their favourite soft toys when they were little. I weaved into the story their love for animals and most of their real life activities that they did through their teenage years like ziplining, cliff jumping, hiking, canoeing, paragliding, horse riding, bungee jumping and abseiling. They also had a helicopter flight in their teens and in the book they are rescued off the island by helicopter, so I believe there is enough for them to associate themselves with the story. What were the girls’ comments after reading the book?

Well done dad. Super proud. It’s a great book. It’s a fun book. All with exclamation marks. (laughing). Great story line, lots of twists and turns. Liked the personal touches of certain activities we experienced and some life lessons. Really enjoyed it. In the story Nadia adopts a monkey - laughing she

said the book makes her want to go and live on an island with monkeys. Tasneem wants a sequel and has already given some ideas. So you achieved your goal, they really felt part of the story. How did you feel when writing your first book?

A huge learning experience, and having written a book of 240 pages, I now have a great admiration for authors who write books in excess of that.

There’s a saying; “It's admirable for a father to take his son fishing, but there is a special place in heaven for the father who takes his daughter shopping.” I know you have done plenty of shopping with the girls, what do you think your reward will be for writing them a book? (tongue in cheek)

Writing the book has given me the opportunity to go down memory lane and recall so many of the times and experiences the girls and I shared and that is enough reward for me.

Footnote: Nadia completed her MBChB degree at UCT in 2022 and still resides in Pinelands. Tasneem graduated at UCT with a B.Sc. Honours degree in Occupational Therapy and left Pinelands 18 months ago to work in Brisbane, Australia. 

Nadia at Bloukrans Bridge 2014. The girls' first Bungee jump.

Penny Smith Article Interviewer and Pinelands resident

Tasneem in Sedgefield 2014. The girls' first paragliding flight.

REVOLUTIONIZING LEARNING: HOW ONE-TOONE DEVICES ARE TAKING PINELANDS NORTH PRIMARY SCHOOL TO THE NEXT LEVEL!

By Thaakirah Fritz Personal Assistant to Principal and Media/Marketing Intern

Pinelands North Primary School in Cape Town, South Africa, is revolutionizing the way pupils learn by implementing a new one-to-one device model for Grades 4-7. This means that from the beginning of the third term this year, pupils in Grades 4-6 will be bringing their own devices to school daily. These innovations are shaping the future of South African education. The implementation of this model means that each pupil will have access to their own device, which they can use to unlock a world of exciting and engaging resources. With this technology at their fingertips, students are empowered to take their learning to the next level and explore the wonders of the world around them like never before. But that's not all. Pinelands North Primary School has also incorporated Coding and Robotics into their curriculum, ensuring

that its pupils are equipped with the skills they need to thrive in the digital age. With the ability to code, design, and programme their own Blue Bots, pupils are developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills that will set them up for success in the future.

After the Department of Basic Education’s

announcement that all schools should implement Coding and Robotics in 2024, it's clear that the future of South African education is in good hands at Pinelands North Primary School. With their commitment to innovation and cuttingedge technology, they are paving the way for a brighter tomorrow. 

Above: Mya Lawrence, Nurah Salie, Gabriella Philander, Zaria Sultan, Zayden Rezant.

Left: Reece Barendse, Nura Hendricks, Rafah Talip, Joy Essel, Luht Rossier.

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.

Joint financial planning: Conversations couples should be having

By Sue Torr Director Crue Invest

® Director B.Comm, AdvDip (Investment Planning)

Corlene

Money in the context of marriage can be notoriously difficult to navigate especially where couples have widely disparate views regarding personal financial management. The following discussions can be helpful. Your planned life together: While it’s unrealistic to expect couples to have identical visions of their life together, it’s important to find common ground in the life they intend to build for themselves. What does financial success look like? Are you both committed to building wealth together? Are you a team?

financially? Are you each prepared to make compromises? What happens if one partner gets retrenched, wants to take a sabbatical, or wants to start a new business? Your respective careers will likely be interspersed with new job opportunities, potential job losses, promotions, salary increases, transfer opportunities, job dissatisfaction, new business opportunities, or even business failures. It's important to support each other through the ups and downs.

Sherry Tapfuma Financial Para-Planner B.Comm, PGDip (Financial Planning)

Hannah Myburgh CFP® Financial Planner B.Comm, PGDip (Financial Planning)

Planning)

Cherise

CFP® Financial Para-Planner B.Comm, PGDip (Financial Planning)

Your financial value system: Sharing a common financial value system is an important part of a couple’s financial planning journey, so be sure to understand how your budget and lifestyle will fairly reflect the morals and principles you live by as a couple. Whether it’s your commitment to continued education and learning, your aversion to debt, your desire to travel, or your altruistic ambitions - these are important conversations to have. Household financial management: What role will each of you will play when it comes to managing the budget, paying bills, tracking expenses, buying groceries, and record-keeping. From our experience, it’s important that both partners are involved, engaged and committed to the management process.

Your careers and earning: Do you both want to build careers? Is it logistically possible? How do you manage your respective incomes? What happens if one person earns more than the other? Does one of you want to stay at home to raise children? How would this affect your standard of living and your plans for retirement? How would the other spouse feel about being the sole breadwinner? Do you share the same work ethic?

Providing for each other: Developing a joint estate plan is an essential part of the financial planning process as it ensures that each partner is adequately provided for, that all your estate planning documents are up-to-date, and that estate costs and taxes are minimised. Remember, marriage creates a duty of support between couples and a well-structured estate plan will ensure that this duty is fulfilled in the event of either partner’s death.

Extended family: Speak to each other about how you will deal with money in the context of your extended family. What happens if a family member asks to borrow money? To what extent is it acceptable to discuss your financial affairs with other family members? Are your respective parents adequately funded for retirement? If not, to what extent can or will you assist them financially? How do you feel about your parents living with you?

Charitable giving: Whether you’re contributing to a Church, charity or NGO in the form of time, resources or money, make sure that your partner knows, understands and respects your involvement.

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

Long Place, Pinelands

Children: Do you both want children? Will you both continue working? If so, who will care for your child? Does one partner want to be a stay-at-home parent? How will this affect the family’s financial position? How does the stay-at-home parent build wealth in their own name? What financial value system will you impart to your child? What type of schooling do you envisage?

Supporting each other: When hard times arise, how will you support each other

Your shared vision of retirement: Do you want to live independently for as long as possible, or do you dream of living in a lockup-and-go retirement complex? Do you want to travel? If so, where and how often? Do you envisage a simple retirement in a small coastal village or a busy retirement in the city? Do you want to live close to your children and grandchildren? Is having pets important to both of you? Is having a garden not negotiable?

While it’s not likely that you’ll agree on every aspect of your dream retirement, finding common ground starts with open communication, sharing of ideas, and joint planning. 

Erasmus

Erin White FSA ™ Director PGDip (Financial

Gareth Collier CFP ® Director B.Comm, AdvDip (Investment Planning)

Botha

Shaneez

PINEHURST BREAKS GROUND FOR NEW ASTROTURF!

On the 6th of March 2023, Pinehurst Primary initiated a long-term dream with the new Astroturf’s Ground-breaking Ceremony. The Principal, Mr Carroll, addressed a full assembly of learners and members of the Governing Body in the hall, before heading out into the drizzle to turn the first sod. Some of the current teachers, former pupils of Pinehurst, shared their experiences of the school before the swimming pool and the multi-purpose centre were built. Mr Carroll reminded the assembly never to take things for granted, but to appreciate opportunities and take a moment to be thankful. The school was encouraged to make good use of this facility striving to improve skills, by doing their best and by having fun! House captains from the three houses represented

the sports which will be played on the surface, being hockey, tennis and netball. The surface will cover roughly a third of the grass field, leaving sufficient space for soccer, rugby, athletics and PhysEd. Pinehurst is able to build the astro by using reserves built up over many years through good stewarding of financial resources. There will also be fund raising. Mr Jonathan Miller, head of the Fundraising Committee, addressed the learners highlighting how all will get to enjoy the new astroturf. He encouraged the assembly to work together as one big team to help “sell” the 2 800 m2 square by square. Learners were excited to hear about all the lucky spot prizes hidden underneath the squares. Mr Carroll closed the assembly with a prayer of thanks.

Above: An audible gasp was heard when Mr Carroll raised a golden spade - the symbolic action of starting the project by digging up the first piece of grass. The Finance Committee, Sport staff and some HODs joined Mr Carroll on the field despite the rain as he broke ground, stating “it’s the beginning of a dream”.

ADVERTISE ON BILLBOARDS

There will be advertising opportunities on the fencing boards, which will be available to rent. This is a great opportunity, especially for local small and medium Pinelands businesses to get high visibility within the local and greater community. This will be an excellent platform for businesses not only to advertise to our local parent body, but also to

SPONSOR A PIECE OF ASTRO

The installer, SynSport, and their civils team started later that morning and by the end of week 1 the turf was taking shape and raising excitement levels around the school.

parents of other schools, as we believe that the Astro will become a hub for matches and tournaments. The billboards will be rented out for a 2-year period with the option to renew. If you or your business is interested in this, please contact the school on astro@phps.org.za and we will be in touch.

You can support our learners who will be “selling” square metres of the Astro, through the purchase of tickets at R100 each. There are great prizes to be won, including weekends away, sailing trips, etc. Payments can be made by SnapScan or cash.

The SnapLink URL is: https://pos.snapscan.io/qr/AvJnVztT

MAKE A DONATION

You are also more than welcome to make a donation directly to the school for the PHPS Astro project. A section 18A tax certificate can be requested from the School Business Manager and donors will be recognised on a sponsorship board. The school can be contacted on astro@phps.org.za to get more details.

Snap here to pay

PINEHURST Primary School OPEN DAY

The school’s bank details are:

Pinehurst Primary School

Standard Bank

Acc no. 073206342

Branch: 036309

Reference: Astro Name & Surname

Pinehurst looks forward to sharing this exciting new development with our community!

FLTR: Madeleine Scheppening (School Business Manager), Waldo Pienaar (SGB Treasurer), Brendan Carroll (Principal), Steve Finegan (SGB Chairperson), Rob Buck (Sports Director), Jonathan Miller (Astro Fundraising Committee), Mark Edwards (SGB Deputy Chair).

As a community, there are several ways you can be a partner to support and help us build and maintain our Astro.

CANNONS CREEK ADVENTURE WEEK

Each year, all Cannons Creek Independent High School pupils and teachers go on Adventure Week, to varying locations and enjoy activities such as paddling down the Orange/Breede River or hiking the Ceres/ Cederberg Mountains. The aim of Adventure Week is to develop grit, cement friendships, and build camaraderie amongst peers in the group. It is the highlight of the year for many pupils. This year, the first group to depart on 23 February were the Grade 9s who spent 10 days hiking and participating in fun-filled activities in the Matroosberg Reserve. Shortly thereafter, the remaining grades departed - the Grade 7s went to Rusticana Estate where they did several team-building activities, the Grade 8s

paddled down the Breede River, while the Grade 10s and 11s hiked in the Cederberg. The Grade 12s spent three days paddling the lower section of the Breede River, as the normal destination for this group, the Orange River, was in flood.

Comments from the pupils: Joshua van der Vinne, Grade 8 "The whole Adventure Week experience was incredible and I can't wait for the next camp!"

Amaal Cassiem, Grade 10 "Adventure Week was definitely the highlight of my year! It was five days filled with hiking, swimming, learning life-skills and making memories. I can honestly say that Adventure Week made me realise that I am much stronger than I had thought. I am so thankful for being able to spend five days out in the mountains, making memories with my friends! My favourite part of Adventure Week was when we finally got to our destination for the day and everyone would play cards, talk and get to know each other better. I returned home more confident, self-sufficient, mature and with so many stories of adventures with my friends."

Stella Melunsky, Grade 7 "Absolute 10 out of 10." Nihal Bardien, Grade 8 "I learnt how to canoe and work as a team. I really enjoyed the river and the outdoor experience. It was

nice to get to know my classmates better and to learn more about canoeing."

Sarah McCrorie, Grade 10 "As strenuous and exhausting as the hiking was, the evenings were blissful. We interacted with people we otherwise might not have, if it weren't for Adventure Week. I learned that sometimes you need to push yourself a little bit and set small goals, but to also go outside of your comfort zone a little to expand your mind and learn properly. I formed strong bonds with my classmates and I'm honestly so excited for next year!"

Sophia Stamatiadis, Grade 9 "There is a 24-hour solo day. You each have separate areas so you can't interact or talk. As an

extrovert, I was surprised that I enjoyed the 24-hour solo day. The only downside was that a baboon was stalking me while I ate my can of beans. A plus side of Adventure Week was the 30m abseiling and the 7m rock-climbing."

Aidan Marais, Grade 11 "It was quite an experience sleeping in the wild. For the most part it was fun and exciting." 

Above: Grade 10 pupils, with past pupil Noah Melunsky (back, right) at the waterfall during their hike in the Cederberg.

Grade 12 pupil Amy Krog, enjoying a break during their adventure down the Breede River.

Grade 9 pupils Sophia Stamatiadis, Georgie Jellicoe, Belle Laithwaite, and Simran Singh, enjoying their camping in the forest in the Matroosberg.

A group of Grade 7 pupils ready to depart from school, excited to make memories.

By Julian Cameron Principal

St George's Grammar School

My journey at St George’s Grammar School began in 2011 and I’m proud to be leading this incredible school as we mark our 175th Anniversary this year. Words that come to mind when reflecting on our school and its history include: generous, empowering, courageous, authentic, humbling. Allow me to share snippets of history that underscore the above words. The generous cobbler, Mr. Schikkerling, started offering reading and writing classes to young children in his shop on New Street in 1844. Mr. Schikkerling had noticed young children whiling away their time in the new town and generously began sharing his knowledge and skills with them. In 1845 the school moved to the premises of St George’s Cathedral. The school was inclusive from the start, with children of “European descent”, black African, and “other persons of colour” being on the school roll from 1845[1]. Mr. Schikkerling sought to empower the young people with literacy and numeracy skills. The school still strives to empower young people today,

PERSONAL REFLECTIONS ON THE 175-YEAR HISTORY OF ST GEORGE’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL

with knowledge, understanding, values, self-knowledge, and a yearning to make a positive contribution to society.

The School, with its motto of Virtute et Valore (The courage to do what is right), has certainly modelled and embraced courageous decisions, actions, and leadership. In 1936, the Principal Mr. Tugman dipped into his own pocket for the purchase of the Bloemendal Estate in Mowbray[2], believing and visioning the school’s growth and future needs of bigger premises with playing fields. In the early 1960s, principal Canon Peacock stood up to the Cape Education Department and admitted Chinese pupils to the school despite the Nationalist Government’s classification of Chinese persons as non-Europeans[3]. In the late 1970s, the apartheid government was again defied when St George's and other religious schools opened their doors to persons from all races. Cutting-edge curriculum innovation was the norm in the 1980s[4] More recently, the way in which the school has embraced White Paper 6 and Inclusive education has been bold and at the forefront of education in South Africa. Our school community is often described as authentic, real, and genuine and that has certainly been my experience here.

Young people are, nurtured, given a voice and their dignity and potential flourish. The school, in its long history, has successfully negotiated two world wars, the great depression, government opposition, and, more recently, Cape Town’s 2018 Day Zero water crisis, the Covid-19 pandemic and we currently face an energy crisis. In each scenario, the school community bands together and faces the realities with unity, hope, and great resilience.

Looking back over 175 years of the school’s contribution in genuinely empowering young people through education and character formation is humbling. It is humbling to be building on the legacies of Mr. Shikkerling and Bishop Robert Gray, founders of the school; Sir Herbert Baker designer of the school buildings in town in 1904, visionary Deans of the Cathedral, bold past principals, teachers, staff members, and young Georgians. One realises that one’s contribution, humble as it may be, forms part of a much bigger and more significant history of an incredible institution. 

[1] Randall, Peter. (1982), Little England on the Veld: The English Private School System in South Africa, Johannesburg, Ravan Press, p.189

[2] Coyne, Patrick. (1997). Cross of Gold- The Story of St George’s Grammar School 1848 – 1998, Cape Town, Ampersad Press, p. 59.

[3] Coyne, Patrick. (1997). Cross of Gold- The Story of St George’s Grammar School 1848 – 1998, Cape Town, Ampersad Press, p.108

[4] Cliff, Alan and Cannon, Paul. (1990)., St George’s …. setting the pace, Cape Town, Arrow Publishers.

ST GEORGE’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL

FOUNDED 1848

Thursday 20 April

April is birthday month at St George’s Grammar School as we continue to celebrate our 175-year milestone with special events. We look forward to commemorating our history with the Georgian community, young and old, making new memories while appreciating the road we’ve travelled to get here.

St George’s Cathedral, Cape Town ST GEORGE’S DAY SERVICE

A commemorative service where, as a community, we will share in a time of reflection and thanksgiving.

Thursday 4 - Saturday 6 May

St George’s Grammar, Geof Burton Hall TIME WILL TELL

Time Will Tell, a production by St George’s Grammar High School pupils, where they will take us through a journey in time, sharing memorable moments in the history of the school.

Saturday 27 May

St George’s Grammar, Geof Burton Hall

175

CELEBRATION GALA DINNER

An elegant celebration of our 175-year milestone, where all in attendance will enjoy a night of fine dining and great entertainment. Save the date. Tickets will be on sale soon.

July 2023

175 BLANKETS FOR MANDELA DAY

The school community will collect 175 blankets to commemorate our 175th year and donate them to those in need in support of Mandela Day.

Wednesday 13 - Saturday 16 September

TIME

St George’s Grammar, Geof Burton Hall Time, is a production by St George’s Grammar Prep School pupils. Time travelling pupils take us on an adventure through the ages.

Dr Mark Stodel

SYLVIA’S

Fridays R250 / month WHEN: COST:

PINELANDS LIBRARY

@pinelandslibrary Follow us to stay up to date with current news & events at the library

Enjoy FREE ACCESS to books, computers and a variety of other resources by applying for your very own library card. Borrowing Privileges: 20 items for 30 days, which can include five CDs or DVDs. All you will need is your ID or passport, proof of residence and 2 contactable references.

OPAC Access code below

For access to a wide varity of ebooks & audiobooks, download the Libby app from the playstore or visit libbyapp.com. After installation, search & select Pinelands Library. Select City of Cape Town. Use access code below. (2 loans for 14 days, 1 renewal, 3 holds)

Access to over 7 000 newspapers and magazines for free through OPAC via the PressReader App. Use access code below

021 814 1780 pinelands.library@capetown.gov.za ACCESS

USERNAME: Library card barcode

PIN: last 6 digits of barcode

EASY COOKING

By Nina Timm Cook, teacher, blogger and author of Easy Cooking from Nina's Kitchen and Maklike Etes

uit Nina se Kombuis!

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Amarula

Makes 12

For the dough

250 ml lukewarm milk

1 x 7 g instant yeast

30 ml / 2 T sugar

5 ml / 1 t salt

45 mll / 3 T butter melted

1 egg

750 ml / 3 cups flour

For the cinnamon filling

125 ml / ½ cup soft butter

250 ml / 1 cup brown sugar

30 ml / 2 T fine cinnamon

Amarula Glaze

200 g cream cheese

60 g / ¼ cup soft butter

375 ml / 1½ cups icing sugar – sifted

80 ml / 1� 3 cup Amarula Liqueur

Method

1. Place the warm milk, yeast, sugar, butter and egg in your mixer with a dough hook. Mix up these ingredients on a low speed.

2. Slowly add the flour and salt with the machine running. Adjust the speed to medium. Keep the mixer running until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.

3. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl, lightly greased with oil. Cover with a tea towel and allow to rise for 1½ hours.

4. Line a baking sheet with baking paper.

5. The dough should now be double in size. Knock down and on a floured surface, roll out to a rectangle about 45 x 30 cm.

6. Brush the entire rectangle with the soft butter. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle all of it over the buttered rectangle. Start on the long side and roll up the dough. Cut into 12 equal-sized wheels. Place onto the baking sheet, allowing space to rise.

7. Cover the wheels and allow to rise for 4550 minutes. Preheat the oven to 180 0C.

8. Bake the rolls for about 15 – 20 minutes.

Perfect for an Easter breakfast

These Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Amarula and freshly brewed coffee are just perfect for an Easter breakfast or brunch. Hot off the press, or shall I say hot out of the oven. Either way, you have to try it. I had the idea for these homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Amarula after I was given a bottle. The internet is flooded with recipes for Cinnamon Rolls, but I bet this

Glazing the cinnamon buns

is one of a few with Amarula Liqueur, if not the only one. It seems as if the whole world is baking bread at the moment. I can think of nothing more intoxicating than the smell of freshly baked bread. So, yes, I baked a few too this last week, but felt it was time to ring the changes with these cinnamon rolls. So, gather your loved ones around the breakfast table and enjoy.

Place the butter, cream cheese and icing sugar in a bowl and mix until smooth. Gently stir in the Amarula. Spread the glaze over the cinnamon rolls while they are still warm.

Portrait: The Photographic Journey

Food shot: Nina Timm

Sharon Van Rensburg properties