2015 Pink Loerie Magazine by Pink Loerie Magazine

april - may 2015

pink loerie magazine April - May 2015

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pink loerie magazine

full festival programme & map page 85

a tribute to zoe morkel cheers to the future the history of mr gay world TM

mr gay Mr Gay world World 2015 grand Grand Finale guide finale Guide on reverse side TM TM

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the shambhala organisation

promoting and supporting proudly LGBT business leaders

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on a personal note. John & Karin would like to thank:

contents

to the organisers & visitors

Globeflight – headline sponsor: Eddie, Thinus, Jo-Ann, Megan, Amanda, Madelein @ customer service, Maureen @ reception and lastly all the staff & drivers.

dear visitor to knysna

a note from our sponsors

TRIARC – in association with sponsor: Andre, Jaco & Roy. Mr Gay South Africa – in association with sponsor: Thinus

the ethiopian delegate’s story

the pink loerie story

Wigstock brought to you by Renè & Werner Nienaber

civil union and gay marriage in south africa

frank’s story…well… part of it

south africa’s lgbt history

my photographer & i

the shambhala organisation

history of mr gay world™

triarc - what a difference a year can make

eric butter philanthropy award

in the pink

cheers to the future

tribute to zoe morkel

all around knysna

emerging lgbt + rights activist

sedgefield has so much to offer

kurland hotel

the sanctuary signature spas

getting to know pete unsworth

skywise is official airline partner

speaker at council meeting in pajamas

globeflight: best among the best express courier

life coffee polvo

boeretroos

the white house

what to do in the grnp

festival programme & map

Executive Mayor of Knysna, Councillor Georlene Wolmarans; Elizabeth Beeslaar - Personal Assistant to Executive Mayor of Knysna; Special Events Committee; Greg, Johan (who sadly moved to Cape Town) & staff - Knysna Tourism; Knysna Municipality; Knysna Traffic Department; South African Police Service Knysna and Provincial Government Western Cape - Metro EMS. Accommodation Sponsors: Masuda – The Rex Hotel; Mabelle – Thesen Islands' Lodges; Max & Linda – Pezula Realty & Letting; Eben, Mariska and staff – Knysna River Lodge; Clive – Knysna Hollow; Eugene & Anja – Protea Hotel Knysna Quays; Peter – Turbine Hotel; Janus – Simola; Elmay & Paul – Blackwaters River Lodge and Carla & Rhoda – The Lofts Boutique Hotel; Aestas Bed & Breakfast; Greenfire Knysna Lodge; Paradise Heads Self-Catering Knysna; Rivertide Self Catering and B&B; Teniqua Treetops; Wayside Inn and the Russel Hotel. Media Partners: Coenie – Gayspeak; Rubin – Gay Pages; Gavin – EXIT; Winnifred & Louise – The Marketing Site; Luiz – Mambaonline.co.za; Charl - The Pink Tonque & Sharon - Queerlife South Africa. Official and preferred 2015 restaurants: 34 South, Drydock, Tapas and Sirocco. Then also: Dirk, Raymond, Melissa, David & Staff - Zanzibar Knysna; Kashief – Knysna Mall; Martin and staff - Skywize; Hertz; Coenraad Kukkuk Attorneys; Dale - The Shambhala Organisation; Jaco & Roy – Triarc; Chris & Melody – Chris Winspear Jewellers; Mike – Michael Game Plan; Michele – Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort & Spa; Bryan & Stephan – Mrs Simpsons Dullstroom; Ilse – Boardwalk Lodge; Julie – Karoo View; Briand – Spartacus; Hotel Izulu; Kurland; Peter & Shelley – The P.R. Team; Trent, Sandy & Staff – Knysna Fine Arts; Ri-Han de Jager; Leon – Aternative Travel & Pink Loerie Travel; Queens of Wigstock Victoria Styles, Corné Rademeyer, Betty Bangles, Kitty De la Renza, Kat Gilardi, Tiara Skye, Angel Lalamore, Manila von Teez, Olivia Mae and Shannin Bronwyn Brown; Laura – www.quicket.co.za; Jacques – L’Opera; Babie, Johan, Gerrit, Jared & Antonie; Johann van Niekerk; Daniel Dp Ferreira – Ecozest; Knysna Animal Welfare Society; Elle - elle photography; Mitchell's Knysna Brewery; Fran Kirsten - Out-There; Ingrid Erlank – Knysna-Plett Herald; Corné Rademeyer for all the hard work and getting everything stitched; Jacky and staff - Events and Tents; Jonathan – Harcourts; Andrew – Citroen Tygervalley; Aqaubella Natural Spring Water; Bos Ice Tea; Fitch & Leedes; Four Paws Wine; Mitchell's Knysna; Jack'd; Luc de Muelenaere for the amazing trophies; Venondo & Louis - Vernondo Boshoff Photography. Nicholas Barclay of GayPages – thank you for working overtime and going above and beyond to get this magazine ready for us. Part of organising an event like this goes hand in hand with sponsorships; be it cash or product and I would like to thank the above people and/or companies for their continued support and belief in our brand and cause. None of this would have been possible without you. I do apologise in advance, if for some reason, I missed a person or company. In that case, Thank You! Karin, thank you very much for all your hard work and support. Last, but not least, I would like to thank Coenie for proof reading this entire magazine in order for us to go to print tomorrow morning! John 15 April 2015 10:55pm

Editor: John O’Neil Sub-editor: Coenie Kukkuk Art Director/Graphic Design: Nicholas Barclay Office Manager: Karin Sephton Accounts: Etta Venter Cover: Dijan Botha Cover Photo: Digital Moment Contributors: Shannin Bronwyn Brown, Coenie Kukkuk, Wim Vorster, Fran Kirsten, Peter Unsworth, Ian Ferreira, Dale Pudney, Cllr Richard Dawson, Elaine Levitte Printing: CTP Book Printers Distribution: Pink Loerie Mardi Gras Festivals Southern Africa CC Copyright: The copyright of all material in this publication is strictly reserved. Published by: Pink Loerie Mardi Gras Festivals Southern Africa CC Tel: 083 347 9570 Fax: 086 515 0167 PO Box 2602, Knysna, 6570 info@pinkloeriemagazine.com www.pinkloeriemagazine.com The appearance of any person or organisation in the Pink Loerie Mag is not an indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or organisations.

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to the organisers & visitors Knysna is one of the Western Cape´s best known travel destinations and we are happy to welcome all our visitors to the 15th annual Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Arts Festival. It gives me great pleasure to celebrate this special event with you. It is a privilege to be part of this community that welcomes diversity and is committed to building relationships and grow together. We are exceptionally happy that Mr. Gay World 2015 will take place in our wonderful town of Knysna and we take great pride in hosting such a spectacular event. As it has grown through the years, this festival has consistently added a welcome economic injection into the town in a time that would otherwise be dire, and has raised much needed funds for local charities.

We would like to thank the organizers for their hard work and dedication - Knysna is a town of festivals and events and all of them are valuable to us, and important to create a sustainable economy in a seasonal environment. Although you are here mostly for all the fun, and I do want you to have fun and make the most of the Festival, please do so safely and responsibly. We encourage our visitors to enjoy the exquisite surroundings, but remember to treat it with the respect it deserves - I know that you'll find many reasons to book your next holiday to Knysna and visit us again and again! Looking forward to welcoming you to Knysna! Georlene Wolmarans Executive Mayor

dear visitor to knysna On behalf of everyone in the Greater Knysna area, it gives me great pleasure in welcoming all visitors, participants and contestants to this prestigious 15th Globeflight Pink Loerie Mardi Gras & Arts Festival. This year’s fun-filled festival will once again bring goodwill and cheer to Knysna – and the coup this year is hosting part of Mr Gay World and the recently acclaimed Wig Stock.

I am constantly amazed at how people from all over the world with unique ideas and experiences can work together to create shared values in a place they have chosen to call home. Knysna is rooted in its residents, their talent and dedication, and hard work, which make me proud to serve as the CEO of Knysna Tourism.

Hello to these special visitors and VIPs: Welcome to Knysna! We hope you will share our delight in our town, which is consistently recognised for its natural beauty.

I invite you to pop into our Tourism Office on Knysna’s Main Road for information and a cup of coffee. Our knowledgeable staff is waiting to help you discover our area. Here you will be advised on the best way to enjoy our area and its exquisite natural beauty.

Firstly, congratulations to John O’Neil and his team for securing Mr Gay World for South Africa for the second time and, in particular including Knysna in the itinerary.

The Greater Knysna Area is a natural fit for people in general. It has an energy that emanates from our forests - symbolic of each unique species making the whole greater than the sum of its parts.

One of the greatest things about our area is its people. The Greater Knysna Area has long been a lifestyle choice for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community in South Africa. Having the first South African married gay couple living in our area as well as the first gay couple who won the legal battle to adopt children in South Africa is living proof of this acceptance.

Enjoy your stay in our town. The people and Mother Nature welcome you. Share her secrets and vast natural beauty with us!. With best wishes for your stay and have a safe journey home. Greg Vogt CEO, Knysna Tourism Ps: Have fun!

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a note from our sponsors triarc globeflight Globeflight - headline sponsor of Pink Loerie Mardi Gras, welcomes all festival goers to beautiful Knysna. This annual event helps many local charities and needy organizations whilst highlighting the LGBTI community, culminating in a colourful parade down the main streets. Caring for the elderly, helping needy children, getting involved with animal projects are some of the undertakings from the sponsors, who make the annual pilgrimage to Knysna all the more worthwhile. “While it is important for us at Globeflight to embrace and celebrate differences, at Pink Loerie Mardi Gras, we can do this as well as support those who need help the most! Be gentle with the earth, be kind to people, be caring with animals. Jo-ann Grace National Sales & Marketing Director Globeflight

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As Africa’s very first LGBTI Insurance Provider Triarc is honoured and incredibly excited to extend a hearty South African welcome to all the Mr Gay World delegates, the President and Directors, the National Producers, other sponsors, Judges and all the LGBTI visitors and our straight friends that have travelled from all over the world to this beautiful town of Knysna for the 15th annual Pink Loerie and 2nd Mr Gay World to be held in South Africa. What a great opportunity to once again celebrate the strength born out of the unity of our diverse community! We are going to have a fabulous time Carnival style. From shopping at the flea market and singing along with our drag divas at the very first Wigstock to cheering for our favourite contestants at the annual Mr and Miss Mardi Gras and Miss Pants and Pumps. Of course we still have the street parade and the Grand Finale of Mr Gay World 2015 to look forward to. This year’s Pink Loerie will certainly be fabulous and will certainly be remembered for years to come. From all of us we say Welcome, Welkom, Siyaalemukela, Amogela, Amohela, Amogela, Sondzela, Mi amukeriwile, Vho tanganedzwa, Amkela, Emukela! Hope you all have a ball! Jaco Nepgen Founder: Triarc

mr gay south africa The MRGSA HEROS of 2015 sending a big warm “hug and kisses” welcome to all our 2015 Mr Gay World delegates and friends visiting from around the world. May the African drumbeat captivate you, may the African sun energize you, may the African saying “UBUNTO “ warms your heart and may the African

gorgeousness fill you with an abundance of FUN !! Thinus van der Walt Managing Director Mr Gay South Africa

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We welcome all finalists for

Mr Gay World 2015

to Knysna and our beautiful lodge in the heart of the Garden Route. May you experience and feel our kind of magic and create lifetime memories!

100 95 75

TEL +27 (0)44 383-0105 • info@blackwaters.co.za • www.blackwaters.co.za

GPS Co-ordinates S: 34. 1. 46 • E: 22. 56. 18

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Mr Gay World™ 2012: The Ethiopian delegate’s story Namibia's representative, Wendelinus Hamutenya, also suffered hardship when he was attacked in early December 2011 after he was crowned Mr. Gay Namibia, which saw him land in hospital. The Ethiopian delegate, Robel Hailu, was a student in South Africa and after his candidacy was announced on Ethiopian radio, a storm broke loose in his home country, there were threats to his life and he was disinherited by his family. Even worse, his father called him and said that it is the last time they will ever speak, that he has brought incredible shame on his family and that he must kill himself to save his soul. Ethiopia is after Mali, the second most homophobic country in Africa, with 97% of the population condemning homosexuality according to a recent poll. These men were brave beyond belief and are risked life and limb to bring hope to LGBTI people in Africa. The Mr Gay World™ competition is defined as an annual contest for gay men, seeking to establish ambassadors for LGBTI and human rights, with winners of national contests competing as delegates in a variety of categories. It is not a beauty contest and there is no age limit. This competition is the most publicized gay contest in the world and unashamedly uses the attention it garners to focus attention on the plight of LGBTI people worldwide, with the focus in 2012 and now also in 2015 being on African LGBTIs specifically. The event is hosted by Cape Town and Knysna in South Africa in 2015, the only country to date to have hosted the event twice. Robel slept on a sofa at the mercy of a friend in a one-roomed flat with his monthly allowance cut off and the rest of his family, even siblings and cousins, forbidden to have contact with him, let alone help him - not that any would. His tuition fees were paid in advance for the year by his father before the news broke, but he had no income since the end of February 2012 until the competition in April took place.

In 2012, the Mr Gay World™ delegate from Ethiopia, Robel Hailu was disowned by his family and cut off financially after it became known that he is participating in Mr. Gay World™.

His father recommended telephonically that he commits suicide to remove the shame he’s brought to the family. He did not withdraw from the Mr. Gay World™ event and participated to the end, as he wanted to show that there ARE in fact gay Ethiopians, a fact that his government denied, and to give hope to LGBTs in Ethiopia and the rest of Africa. He knew the risk he was taking, but decided to proceed. For the first time in that year 2012, black Africans participated in Mr Gay World™. Africa was to be represented by South Africa, Namibia, Ethiopia and Zimbabwe - all four places allotted to the continent. However, due to relentless pressure on his family in Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwean delegate had to withdraw. The others proceeded to take part.

Luckily a sponsor of Mr. Gay World™ in 2012, came to the rescue and offered him a job. He also stayed for a while in a gay shelter. Due to security reasons and on-going caution for his safety, we can not reveal the sponsor nor the city where he resides in as he still received death threats from Ethiopians expats in South Africa. Robel is still with the company and is now head of its IT division in South Africa. But he will probably never see his home country and family again. He refused to continue living a lie, wanted to come out and used the competition to show his fellow gay countrymen that there is hope and to start a national debate on gay rights which was totally absent before. In this, he succeeded, albeit at a price. Based on an article in DNA Magazine and updated by Coenie Kukkuk

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the pink loerie story: The story of the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Arts Festival is a story that begins with Knysna. Hidden away 1200 km south of Johannesburg and east of Port Elizabeth, lays the charming town of Knysna (a local Khoikhoi word that quite possibly may mean ‘ferns’). One of the best kept secrets of South Africa, the town of Knysna is located in the Garden Route and is surrounded by lush native South African rainforests, spilling out into a crystalline estuary fed by the Knysna River. For the past fourteen years at the end of April and the first week of May, Knysna has also become home to one of the freshest and most exciting LGBTI celebrations around the world – the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Arts Festival. Initially started by local businessmen to entice tourists to the town during the slow month of May and reinvigorate the local economy, and run until 2009 by Juan Lerm, the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras was also an event that that would not only incorporate the region’s gay identity but celebrate the cultural contribution the gay community made to the region and overcome a history of suppression. And with an ever increasingly visible gay population, Knysna’s Pink Loerie has quietly become one of the most written about and must-see annual celebrations within the global gay community. During the early days of the event’s creation, the organisers had first thought to have the event as a parade similar to the famous Pride events found throughout Europe and South Africa. The next option was to hold a parade and party akin to that of the Sydney Mardi Gras. Whilst acknowledging that the region was in need of an event that provided a celebratory and creative outlet for the LGBTI community, the organisers agreed that whatever it was that was created should go beyond that of the traditional, better known Pride parade. It should be a celebration, a carnival – and a carnival with a purpose. This would allow the event to become something that incorporated all residents and visitors in the town regardless of their sexuality, thus celebrating the rich diversity of people from the Greater Municipality of Eden area, which incorporates Knysna and nearby George. It would be an event that would truly embrace the ideals of

equality and freedom. Whilst essentially still being a celebration of gay culture and queer freedom, it would also be a platform where LGBTI cultural and political issues could be debated and addressed, albeit in an informal manner. Issues such as sexual education, HIV/AIDS and acceptance from both sides of the community are often primary themes of discussion and celebration. After some initial discussions with the local government and a whopper of a fund raiser that proved just how much support they had from all areas of the community, they were ready to begin … And so in 2001, the very first Pink Loerie Mardi Gras was celebrated and to say it was a huge success is an understatement. A more culturally aware version of the European Pride, Pink Loerie Mardi Gras provided a wider range of events, exhibitions and gatherings that focus on creative and political endeavours within the South African and international gay communities. Performing art shows, art exhibitions and charity drives are held that provoke thought and debate and provide many a creative platform to share their opinions and experiences. And, for the more outdoor oriented, there are excursions to local tourist attractions such as Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, as well as lagoon rides on the cruise boats on offer. But at its heart, the Pink Loerie is a festival and celebration so dancing, fun and music also played an enormous part of the event, with daily shows held at various locations throughout the town and club nights at the ever-popular Zanzibar Lounge & Club in Main street and Pink Candy Club in association with Zanzibar opposite the Flea Market, 1st floor Knysna Mall next to Standard Bank. The highlight of the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras, the Parade and after-party, is held on the final weekend of the celebrations – this year on Saturday 2 May 2015 at 3 pm (this time starting in Queen Street, going up to Pledge Square, turning around in the square and coming down Main St to Queen again). Spanning over five days, from 29 April to 3 May 2015 (1 May being a public holiday), the festival attracts floats, performers and DJ’s from all over

the world and local businesses also get into to the spirit, competing for the best Pink Loerie window display. During the day, there is the Flea Market on the mezzanine first floor of Knysna Mall and opposite that is the Pink Candy Club, which is the official Wigstock Premium Drag Event venue in the day time throughout the festival and at night it doubles as the “Girls’” venue. It all ends off on Saturday 2 May after the parade with an After-Party at Zanzibar kicking off with a price-giving and announcement of "Best in Parade" at 5 pm and lasting until the early hours of Sunday. The pinnacle of this year’s parade is the participation of the Mr. Gay World™ delegates from around the world, carrying their respective countries’ names in their daytime National Costume – the nighttime version to be shown at the Mr. Gay World™ Grand Finale, Knysna Exhibition Centre, Knysna Mall (stairs next to Mugg & Bean) at 8 pm. Tickets for this event can be bought by following the link below. The Mr. Gay World™ Sports Day on Friday 1 May is also open to the public – it is free and a picnic basket may be ordered from the venue, being Blackwaters River Lodge in Brenton. It starts at 10 am. Tickets can also be bought for the Mr. Gay World™ President’s Ball on that evening after the Sports, at 6 pm at Conrad Pezula, here https://www.quicket.co.za/ events/?search=Mr+Gay+World. This festival is the event where Knysna comes into its own, with the locals showing the full extent of hospitality, diversity and fanfare and festive spirit that is the backbone of the event and the reason that people keep coming back every year. A notable accomplishment of Pink Loerie is the charity drive for local charities such as Loeriehof Old Age Home in Graham Street, Knysna and the Mayor’s Relief Fund. The Pink Loerie Mardi Gras & Arts Festival is therefore a time of celebration, but celebration with a purpose. We hope you enjoy this year! PINK LOERIE MARDI GRAS & ARTS FESTIVAL™

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civil union and gay marriage in south africa Civil partnerships were introduced in South Africa by the Civil Union Act, 2006, which also legalised same-sex marriage. Civil partnerships can be formed by opposite-sex couples and by same-sex couples, and have the same rights, responsibilities and legal consequences as marriages. The parties to a civil partnership must be 18 or older and not already married or in a civil partnership. The prohibited degrees of affinity and consanguinuity that apply to a marriage under the Marriage Act also apply under the Civil Union Act;[1] thus a person may not form a civil partnership with his or her direct ancestor or descendant, sibling, uncle or aunt, niece or nephew, or the ancestor or descendant of an ex-spouse.[2]

Marriage Act are also automatically appointed to solemnise civil partnerships. Religious marriage officers may not solemnise civil partnerships. (They may, however, solemnise marriages under the Civil Union Act.) Government marriage officers who have an objection of conscience to solemnising same-sex civil partnerships may note this objection in writing to the Minister of Home Affairs, and then they will be exempted from doing so.

Civil partnerships must be solemnised by an authorised marriage officer. Government officials (primarily magistrates and Home Affairs civil servants) who are appointed as marriage officers under the

The legal consequences of a civil partnership are identical to those of a marriage under the Marriage Act, except for such changes as are required by the context. Any reference to marriage in any law,

including the common law, is deemed to include civil partnership in terms of the Civil Union Act; similarly, any reference to husband, wife or spouse in any law is deemed to include a civil partner. The law of divorce for civil partnerships is the same as that for marriage. References [1] Civil Union Act 17 of 2006, s. 8(6). [2] Himonga, Chuma (2007). "Part II: Persons and Family". In du Bois, FranĂ§ois. Wille's Principles of South African Law (9th ed.). Cape Town: Juta & Co. pp. 243â&#x20AC;&#x201C;244. ISBN 978-0-7021-6551-1. Source: Wikipedia

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frank’s story…well… part of it. It is the 8th of May, 2008. I have just walked through the door and begin to tip toe through the house so I don’t wake my mother up. She has been very worried about my late nights with my German, Australian and Japanese friends throughout the suburbs of Khumalo and Hillside. It is the height of pre- election violence in Zimbabwe. Only a few days ago a young man was kicked in the chest by militia until he was coughing up globules of blood. His crime? Not carrying a form of positive identification or a piece card that shows which political party he follows. Yes, I was there. I was with a friend on George Silundika Avenue near Glens Removals when the young man skidded past us and fell onto the tarmac about two metres from where we stood talking. Not a moment later there was a thundering of army boots and booming voices shouting violently as they descended on the unarmed, helpless man. I dare not tell you the state he was in when the lifted his near dead body and took it around the corner. As we were trying to take all this in, the guy in charge, not more than 30 years old, walked straight to me as though he would smooch me and asked me for ID. I groped the back pocket of my Levis and felt my passport there. I sighed. They did the same with my friend. We were both safe. He told us to run home and not look back. We did just that.

Fast forward back to this day… So I am tip toeing through my mother’s kitchen. I have locked the door behind me and am about to get into bed when the phone rings… It is the loudest damn phone I have ever heard. I rush to it and pick it up by the 3rd ring.

and footage confiscated and watched. I was an easy target, seeing I was a lead actor in a Zimbabwean TV series at the time. I had to make a wise decision that would not endanger my loved ones. So I left. It took 10 heavy days to apply for a South African Visa, book a flight and get out.

Hello!”, says a raspy, tobacco beaten voice on the other end of the line. “Is that Frank?”. I pause, squint my eyes a little as if that will help me recognise this unfamiliar voice. “Yes. It is”. I am not sure if this is one of my friends playing a prank or a genuine call, so I listen. “We know who you are and what you have been doing”. “Who is this?”. The concern in my voice cannot mask the fear that is sprinting up and down my spine. “We are your friends that are trying not to hurt you unless you give us cause to”. “We know about your interview. We are giving you a grace period of 7 days to leave this country before we come to get you or burn your house down with you in it!”

I left the country unscathed. The fact remains though, that threats and intimidation were used to make me feel a lesser human being and that my life meant little. And also that I was terrified enough of what might happen to me behind closed doors as an out gay man in a country that does not to this day recognize gay people as human and continues to deny equal rights to LGBTI citizens. So now, I speak for those that might never be afforded the space and time to utter a word that might bring them to be accepted in society. Not just in Zimbabwe, but all over our beautiful continent and beyond.

It was the police. They had found footage for an interview I had given to a French TV channel where I openly stated my sexual orientation and thoughts on where I felt the country was going under the president’s rule. The filmmakers had been caught

Frank Malaba Poet | Performance Artist Twitter: @frankmalaba Facebook: Frank Malaba Skype: frankmalaba Website: www.frankmalaba.com Blog: frankmalaba.wordpress.com

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south africa’s LGBT history The evolution of the state of South Africa is one of the world's most complex and inspirational national histories.

activists such as Bev Ditsie and Justice Edwin Cameron earned them the respect of important members of the ANC.

Founded in bloody colonial conflict, slavery, and strife, the Republic of South Africa became one of the worst examples of institutionalised racism through the system known as “Apartheid”, an Afrikaans word meaning “separateness”. The unrelenting courage and resistance of black South Africans and other people of colour as well as whites who refused to accept the brutal apartheid system, led by leaders such as Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, Ahmed Kathrada, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and rebellious white Afrikaners such as the Reverend Beyers Naude and Adv. Bram Fischer (Nelson Mandela’s treason trial lawyer), resulted in the systemic collapse of the National Party ‘whites only’ government and the creation of a thriving democratic republic through negotiation. Pres. FW de Klerk was the last white president, who peacefully negotiated and handed over power to the first majority government in 1994, led by Nelson Mandela. De Klerk and Mandela were together awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace.

Nelson Mandela was elected president of the new republic in 1994, and in his victory speech, he denounced prejudice and discrimination against gay men and lesbians.

combat is the commonly held but wrong belief that homosexuality is not a native African identity, but one of the corrupting influences of the West. However, many examples exist in Africa of samesex relations before the Europeans arrived, as can be seen from the reports of early missionaries to the continent that of course, loudly condemned these practices!

When a new constitution was written and ratified in 1996, the Republic of South Africa became the first nation in the world to include sexual orientation as a fundamental freedom.

Importantly, during the 103rd anniversary of the ANC, President Jacob Zuma on 10 January 2015, condemned hate crimes against gay, lesbian and transgender South Africans. He said:

In 1990, Nkoli and Ditsie helped plan Johannesburg's first gay pride march. Nkoli died in 1998 of complications due to AIDS – but having seen his dream of equality becoming a reality.

The ANC also condemns the violent crimes against women, children, the elderly and members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex communities.

Legal Reform pertaining to LGBTs: After the fall of apartheid, the legal status of gay and lesbian citizens quickly improved. In May 1996, with the adoption of the country's new constitution, South Africa became the first country to specifically protect LGBT people from discrimination. Important: Section 9(3) of the constitution prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, gender, and sexual orientation, among other grounds.

Gay Life in General South Africa's diverse LGBT community both thrives and struggles amid the contradictions between a conservative traditional culture and some of the most progressive gay rights legislation in the world.

Due to the work of strong gay activists among the anti-apartheid freedom fighters, this new Republic of South Africa, comprising more than 50 million citizens, became the first nation in the world to be founded on a constitution that includes sexual orientation as a protected freedom. On the wave of this progressive inclusion, South Africa's LGBT population has developed a diverse and energetic community with many organisations that continue to try to repair the rifts of the nation's divisive past. However, despite legislative and judicial successes, national priorities and cultural attitudes are not easily changed. Thus, South Africa's queers continue to struggle against prejudice and violent attacks, including so-called "corrective" rapes that target lesbians. SEXUAL ORIENTATION BEGUN TO BECOME PART OF SA HISTORY: A courageous young activist who was unjustly imprisoned was Tseko Simon Nkoli (1957-1998), an openly gay man who had worked to end apartheid for several years before his arrest in 1984. Though he faced the death penalty, he spoke out for gay rights while in prison and after his release in 1987. Nkoli's courage and that of other gay anti-apartheid

In November 2006, Parliament voted 230-41 in favor of a bill that authorised same-sex civil marriage, as well as civil unions for unmarried opposite-sex and same-sex couples. South Africa, thus, became the fifth country in the world (then) to achieve marriage equality on 30 November 2006. The lop-sided vote in favor of marriage equality may, however, be misleading. Many of the Members of Parliament from the ruling African National Congress who voted in favour of equality did so not out of a conviction that same-sex marriage was a step toward progress, but in order to prevent a constitutional crisis in the new nation. Indeed, current South Africa President Jacob Zuma loudly opposed the new law (although he later apoligised). Moreover, the law allows civil servants, as well as clergy, to refuse to perform same-sex marriages. South Africa Today Although South Africa in theory, and largely in practice, extends equal legal rights to its LGBT citizens, the South African queer community must contend with persistent cultural prejudices. One of the strongest biases that LGBT groups must

Homosexuality certainly exists in rural South Africa, but visible gay life in South Africa seems to be an urban phenomenon. The major cities, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town, all have substantial gay communities. Even smaller cities, such as Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth, and East London, are known as gay-friendly areas, while Knysna hosts the annual Pink Loerie Mardi Gras & Arts Festival™, which attracts gay men and lesbians from across the country and which we are lucky enough to attend! Pretoria, Johannesburg and Cape Town and now even smaller towns like Port Elizabeth and Mossel Bay, both near Knysna, have annual Pride celebrations that attract large crowds. Cape Town is often described as one of the "gay capitals of the world" As the most gay-welcoming African country, South Africa has become an important gay tourist destination, attracting visitors from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and the rest of Africa. Despite some homophobic politicians and cultural attitudes, the South African LGBT communities have also received significant support from such revered figures in the country as Nelson Mandela, Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu and now even Pres. Zuma. Many openly gay people serve in the country’s judiciary, parliament and military.

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One of Knysnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most elegant and sophisticated accommodation offerings promises its guests superior service and exceptional comfort. Located on the world famous Garden Route, The Rex hotel is one of the most exhilarating getaways in its class.

RESERVATIONS 0877409292 | cro@aha.travel www.threecities.co.za | www.ahagroup.co.za

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my photographer & i

by Vernondo Boshoff

My main passion in photography is to capture beauty in all itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forms on camera, my absolute love for fashion, runway and fitness photography helps me to capture images I am truly proud of, this also can only be achieved if the photographer and the model have a great working relationship. In the last 3 years as a professional photographer I have had the pleasure to work with over 400 models, most of them I have become good friends with after the shoot. My reasoning for writing this article is for you to understand how important it is that both the model and the photographer need to work together to create that perfect shot. As mentioned, I have worked with many models, some professional and some first time models. Whether a professional or new model, it always takes time to become comfortable with the photographer and time is something we have very little of these days. It is therefore that I believe that confidence forms an intricate part at these shoots. As a photographer I need to have control over a shoot to get the images I want from the model, but at the same time be humble enough to tell a model if something is not working or have to change the styling or poses. As soon as there is enough faith in both the photographer and the model, then the good photograph can become a great photograph, and before you realise, 5 hours of shooting has passed, and neither party is tired. At first, models will always look to the photographer for guidance on posing. I do like to do the pose myself to show the model what I expect, I somehow feel that my silly but yet confident posing style makes the model feel more at ease, and that is when faith starts creeping in and we can start creating those amazing images both of us want. Detail is so important to an image, it is my job as photographer to ensure that nothing is out of place, that the pose or style suits the model and the lighting ads life to the image. It is just as

important for the model to let the photographer know when he/she is not happy with certain detail in the image. There is always something we do not feel great with about ourselves, may it be a certain shape or angle and you have the right to voice those concerns. Always listen to the photographer, you will soon realise there are certain signals or gestures the photographer use for direction, try and respond to it as quickly as possible, but with slow movements, as there is always that perfect pose hiding in between a previous pose. Always go into a shoot with a fixed expectation, as a photographer I will know what I would like to achieve from the shoot, this will be based on the look of the model, the required outcome, and then always, a bit of creativity. For you as the model, what is your expectation? Is it just to build your portfolio, do you hope to be awarded a contract, did you spend time on your physical appearance and does it need show in the images. Whatever you expect from the shoot must be discussed with the photographer to ensure that both of you work towards the same objective. I like to send a model a mail before the shoot, there is always a certain look or image I would like to obtain from the shoot, in the mail I will usually advise the date, time and location and the need for specific clothing by doing this upfront it will avoid any unpleasantness on the

day of the shoot. There is nothing more rewarding than forwarding the final images of the shoot to my models. With permission I will post some of the images onto social media and my web page. I always caution my models against posting all their images received as one batch onto social media, rather take three or four images and post it at weekly intervals, by doing this you create an ongoing interest with your followers and friends. Refrain from editing the images, as you will loose quality on the images after you post it onto social media. When posting your images on social media, if possible, take the time to credit the photographer and those who attended during the shoot, a good photographer should always make time in thanking the models for their time. My last point I would like to raise is that models and photographers have a lot to learn from each other. I will always take the time to allow a model to give their idea on a certain pose or style or expression, their idea could bring something to the shoot I would not necessarily have thought of. Not all ideas (from either party) are always good, but at the same time if we are humble and learn from each other, we will all continue to grow as artists.

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2015-04-16 03:47:25 AM

the shambhala organisation: established to promote and support LGBT business leaders The Shambhala Organisation was established by Dale Pudney in response to the lack of openly LGBT individuals in top-level business leadership positions. The recent coming out of Apple CEO, Tim Cook, as the only openly gay CEO in the Fortune 500 is testament to the discrimination that is rife in the business world globally. It is no different in South Africa. There is a perception in the LGBT community of ‘glass ceilings’ and discrimination against LGBT individuals in the corporate world. This has also been experienced by Dale Pudney, a company MD doing business in Africa; he is acutely aware of the risks to business if clients in Africa were aware of his sexuality. Potential LGBT business leaders face all the standard challenges of getting ahead in business, like lack of finance for entrepreneurial ventures, insufficient funding for appropriate education, and needing mentoring and coaching to enhance career performance. These are compounded by rife discrimination, none of which are challenges that can be overcome overnight. The Shambhala Organisation seeks to help high

potential LGBT individuals break through these ‘glass ceilings’ and take their rightful place in business leadership positions. The Shambhala Organisation is a network of initiatives that seek to promote and support proudly LGBT business leaders. These initiatives include scholarships, private equity funding for entrepreneurial ventures and career performance enhancement. With such a specific target market, these initiatives would struggle if each acted alone, but together they can start to make a difference for LGBT business leadership. Shambhala Scholarships enable further study towards a career in business leadership. To provide the foundation for business leadership we offer scholarships that assist LGBT students study further toward careers in business leadership. Recipients must pay-it-forward through community service to the LGBT community and preferably the LGBT business community. Seven scholarships, to a total value of R200,000, were awarded for the 2015 academic year. Shambhala Private Equity invests in high performance entrepreneurial businesses. To enable entrepreneurial business growth, we offer private

equity investments into LGBT owned and managed high potential businesses including funding to grow acquire an existing business. The investment is combined with mentorship and support to help the business achieve its objectives. Shambhala Performance provides coaching and mentorship to improve career performance. To improve human performance, we identify the causes of underperformance in any organization and / or individual, and assist them reach their potential by addressing those factors. Interventions include coaching, mentorship, learning, placement, development, business systems and processes. This network of initiatives will grow as more people lend their time and talents to the common objective of promoting and supporting proudly LGBT business leaders. Together, these initiatives hope to tilt the scale in favour of the LGBT community. For more information, please visit www.shambhala.org.za or www.facebook.com/TheShambhalaOrg, Email: info@shambhala.org.za or follow @TheShambhalaOrg

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history of mr gay world

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JUNE 2008 Eric Butter and Dean Nelson embarked on a mission to create a global competition that would inspire and empower gay men to come together in a public performance that would show the world that being gay encompasses a broad spectrum. The mission to demonstrate that both inward beauty and physical appearance are equally important as is leadership and confidence. It was our hope that by bringing these men together they would share their experiences to open both each others’ as well as the public’s eyes that in many regions on our planet being gay is a challenge and a fight for basic human rights.

SEPTEMBER 2008 Both Eric Butter and the then Vice Chair of Mr Gay Europe, Tore Aasheim, were invited to Vancouver to discuss how we could bring this global vision to the International Producers and ensure that the Mr Gay World board had a united and global view.

OCTOBER 2008 Mr Gay Europe initiated the Dublin Summit bringing Eric Butter (Australia), Dean Nelson (Canada), Tore Aasheim (Norway), Brian Merriman (Ireland) and Noemi Alberto (Philippines) together to discuss the structure, vision and mission of Mr Gay World and to form the first international board of directors in Dublin, Ireland. The new board officially awarded the first host city to Whistler, Canada during their annual WinterPRIDE celebrations.

FEBRUARY 2009 The first Mr Gay World Competition took place during the annual WinterPRIDE celebrations in the award winning mountain resort of Whistler, Canada welcoming 24 delegates. Only twenty of those competed which resulted in Ireland’s Max Krzyanowski winning the title. Mark Tewksbury (Canadian Olympian) and Charlie David (US/ Canadian Actor/Producer) emceed the Grand Finale at the Westin Whistler Resort Ballroom to a sold out audience. Special guest performances by Canadian Pop recording artists Destineak and Vancouver’s drag diva Ms. Willie Taylor.

FEBRUARY 2010 The second Mr Gay World Competition took place in Oslo, Norway welcoming 23 delegates including Chinese National Xiaodai (Andrew) Muyi. The significance of having Andrew compete demonstrated to the people of China that they are not alone in their quest to be accepted. Andrew, who is Muslim, came from a dominant Muslim region of Xinjiang and explained in an interview with the Chinese Global Times ,“Organizing gay events in Xinjiang is much harder than in Beijing, because it is against religion.” Hanne Krogh, winner of the Eurovision song contest 1985, presented the Eric Butter Philanthropy award to HRH Mette-Marit, Crown Princess of Norway for her dedication in HIV/ AIDS-related work as well as youth empowerment. Emcee Will Fennell (Australia TV personality) named Charl van der Berg (South Africa) the title of Mr Gay World 2010.

MARCH 2011 The third Mr Gay World Competition took place in Manila, Philippines. This year the MGW team brought the competition to the people of Manila where all the delegates volunteered their time to

give back to a Manila slum restoration project – Gawad Kalinga to the Unilab GK Village Arkong Bato in Brgy Kapitolyo, Pasing City, Philippines. Each of the delegates brought books and toys to be donated to the village. The MGW team then went to work to renovate a new learning centre for the children. This was an important task as it gave the care workers as well as community officials an opportunity to see another aspect of gay men helping to overcome stereotypes of what they may think how gay men look and act. Filipino TV celebrity Boy Abunda, at Club Mwah in Mandaluyong City, was presented with the Eric Butter Philanthropy Award for his work in promoting a strong and positive role model for the Philippines’ LGBT community. Celebrity judge and 1969 Miss Universe, Gloria Diaz, was among the judges that determined South Africa’s Francois Nel would bring home the MGW title to African soil for the second consecutive year.

OCTOBER 2011 Hosted by Mr Gay South Africa, Mr Gay World announces new Board of Directors at the Johannesburg Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa welcoming two new board members including Coenie Kukkuk (South Africa) Director for Africa and the Middle East, and Alfredo Ferreyra (Argentina) Director for South America / Caribbean – Latin America. Returning members are Eric Butter (Australia) – President, Dean Nelson (Canada) – Vice President Operations + Director for North America and Oceania, Noemi Alberto (Philippines) – Vice President Outreach + Director for Asia, Tore Aasheim (Norway) – Director for Europe.

APRIL 2012 The fourth Mr Gay World Competition took place in Johannesburg, South Africa welcoming 24 registered participants to the Rainbow Nation. This was the first time that a major international gay event had been staged on African soil and caused much debate and public discussion within Africa and around the world – fulfilling one of the primary goals of the organization. For the first time, MGW had a huge highway billboard sign on one of the busiest motorways in Africa promoting the annual competition and raising the profile of LGBT Human Rights. It was also the first time the competition was able to host black Africans in the competition where these men literally put their lives on the line to raise awareness of LGBT human rights in their respective countries of Ethiopia, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean had extraordinary pressures, from both his family and President Robert Mugabe, and had to withdraw from the competition in order to avoid “embarrassing the country.” The Ethiopian also faced similar challenges but stayed to compete which forced him to become a refugee and lose his family. If he were to return to Ethiopia he would face impending death for being publicly gay. Emcees Cathy Specific and Soli Philander navigated a sold out audience at the Lyric Theatre in Gold Reef City, South Africa, recounting the incredible journey these men have been on while in South Africa. This included an outreach program to a Nkosi’s Haven - a South African NGO offering holistic care and support for destitute HIV/AIDS infected mothers, their children, and resulting AIDS orphans (infected or not). Dean Nelson (Canada) presented Coenie Kukkuk with the Eric Butter Philanthropy Award for his tireless work in creating a safer more inclusive environment for

Africa’s LGBTI community and raising the profile and disparity in LGBTI Human Rights. The judges determined it would be Mr Gay New Zealand – Andreas (Andy) Derleth who would take home the title of Mr Gay World to Oceania, with South Africa again scoring well with Lance Weyer from the Eastern Cape placing second.

JULY 2013 During the worldOutgames 2013 in Antwerp, Belgium, the organisation geared up to host the fifth annual Mr Gay World Competition in Antwerp, Belgium July 31st – August 5th welcoming the largest delegation to date from around the world eager to be the next Mr. Gay World™. Again, a New Zealander won – Christopher Olwage, walking away with five category wins. The Eric Butter Philanthropy Award was awarded to the well-known NoH8-campaign for their very visual and social media viral campaign of advocating against hate. It would be the first time a delegate from the Caribbean win the Sports challenge, with Aruba making the grade. In another first, a black African, Ricardo Amunjera would make the Top 5 placing as 3rd runner-up. Ricardo returned in 2015 to be a judge at MGW2015.

AUGUST 2014 The next stop in Mr. Gay World’s journey around the world would take it to Rome, Italy with the producers this year being the Gay Village in Rome. This is also the first time the winner would be crowned outdoors – on the large stage at the open arena of Gay Village. The Gay Village is unique – creating a space for LGBT people every Thursday to Saturday during the summer in Rome. A strong contingent from Asia would participate, with delegates from Cambodia and Indonesia joining Mr Gay World for the first time with their counterparts from India, Philippines and Hong Kong. Italian politician and human rights activist, Imma Battaglia, took home the Eric Butter Philanthropy Award for her achievements in organising the first Rome Pride march as well as her decades-long fight for LGBT rights in Italy. India won three categories, but it would be the United Kingdom’s Stuart Hatton Jr. taking the title for the UK for the first time. Stuart would later launch his “So What” campaign on social media, attracting worldwide attention.

MAY 2015 South Africa would become the only country to have hosted Mr. Gay World twice, with the competition returning to the African continent, this time taking place in two cities, Cape Town and Knysna, with the Grand Finale taking place in Knysna on the 2nd of May. It would also be the first time that delegates would join a street parade, namely the annual Pink Loerie Mardi Gras & Arts Festival parade on the day of the final, with the Pink Loerie also the host and producer run by John-Louis O’Neil and Karin Sephton. Mr. Gay World also welcomed new directors Ivan Denis and Bram Bierkens (Belgium) for Europe and Juan Martin Boll (Argentina) and Nano Garcia for Latin America, and Dieter Sapper from Austria as CEO with Noemi Alberto (Philippines) returning for Asia. Coenie Kukkuk (South Africa) would continue as Director for Africa and the Middle East as well as Managing Director for 2015. A host of countries would make their debut at Mr. Gay World in 2015, namely Cuba, Dominican Republic, Zambia, Uruguay and Malta participating for the first time.

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triarc - what a difference a year can make “Triarc to cast a glitter rainbow into insurance industry” and with those prophetic words in last year’s Pink Loerie Magazine Triarc was introduced to the World at the Pink Loerie last year. What a difference a year can make! We have come a long way and seen all aspects of our wonderful, fabulous diverse LGBTI Community. From the get go we decided we were going to be more than just an Insurance provider, we were going to be THE insurance provider for the LGBTI community. We were going to be more than just a sponsor but an active participant in as many LGBTI events that we could get to. And so began Triarcs first year …..

We marched alongside you in Prides from PE to Pretoria, from Soweto to Durban and onwards to CapeTown. We listened to you at the Trans health and advocacy conference and realised there is a lot of work that still needs to be done . We watched the Cape Town Drag queens compete in several pageants until there could be only one Miss Gay Western Cape . We played tennis in the LGBTI Tennis tournament and dressed up as fabulous sailors for MCQP and swam with bears at the Bearfest There was Gayday, Miss Party’s, First Fridays, Unofficial Pink Party’s, Queers on Smash , Lush and our very own drag wars where the drag queens took on the drag kings in an epic battle of song and dance. But it wasn’t all fun and games we also got our hands dirty and spent our 69 minutes on Mandela Day giving back to our community by getting into the garden of the Pride shelter trust and planting all kinds of flora. We moved into our brand new offices in July and have welcomed many of the LGBTI community leaders there for a cup of our special coffee we grind on site.

Last year we said we wanted to establish ourselves as a first rate employer by employing bright, ambitious and energetic LGBTI job seekers and we have kept to that challenge. We upskill our staff constantly and have staff of all races, genders and orientation. In between all this we launched our very own life products for the LGBTI community. Whether you are a Lesbian, Gay, Straight or Transgender, you will find that at Triarc your futures are secure and it doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg, but hey, why don’t you see for yourself! Our suite of Life Insurance products, designed and developed specifically for you, include Death, Disability and Functional Impairment Cover, Critical Illness cover and Income Protection. We have a host of options and tweaks but don’t worry about any of it. Our agents are skilled to help and advise you every step of the way making the whole process completely effortless but always rewarding. Visit our website on www.triarc.co.za and do the online quote form or call us on 021 810 5700. We have huge ambitions for the future and want to eventually offer a host of financial services to the market. Watch this space and we will be back next year for you to see what a difference another year can make….

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Eric Butter Philanthropy Award Each year the host nation nominates a person or organization for the Mr. Gay World Eric Butter Philanthropy Award. The award is given to an individual that possesses extraordinary selflessness to the greater community in moving diversity acceptance forward. This individual is a leader and inspires those around him/her to be their very best. The goal of the award is to bring public recognition to dynamic individuals from around the world, whose values infuse their humanitarian accomplishments, and provide inspiration to the next generations specifically in diversity issues with LGBT and/or HIV/AIDS community. Mr. Gay World is looking for today’s LGBT heroes. Next generation leaders who have a vision for change that will better the world in a meaningful way, and who have created a mechanism for acting on that vision in ways that deliver measureable results.

We evaluate that against the following criteria:

1) Today’s LGBT heroes whose values and regard for humanity serve as an inspiration for the next generations. 2) Next generation leaders who have a vision for change that will better the world in a meaningful way; 3) Nominees who have created a mechanism for acting on their vision in ways that deliver measurable results; and, 4) Nominees who exhibit innovation, leadership and impact in their chosen field.

Past Award Recipients:

2010 Norway HRH Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway for her dedication in HIV/AIDS-related work as well as youth empowerment.

2013 Belgium The very well-known NoH8 campaign. This recipient has created a global awareness of LGBT rights through social media which has attracted worldwide attention.

2011 Philippines Filipino TV celebrity Boy Abunda for his strong leadership in celebrating sexual diversity and HIV/ AIDS awareness.

2014 Italy Italian politician and human rights activist, Imma Battaglia, for her achievements in organising the first Rome Pride march as well as her decades-long fight for LGBT rights in Italy.

2012 South Africa African LGBT activist Coenie Kukkuk for his determination in raising awareness of the marginalisation of LGBT citizens and his fearless fight for equal human rights for all Africans.

2015 South Africa – To be announced

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www.citroen.co.za

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cheers to the future It has been an absolute whirlwind of a year since Pink Loerie Mardi Gras 2014. In the last piece I wrote for the PL Magazine I spoke about Knysna’s Gay Christmas referring to the town’s hospitality, and how the town comes to life during this time of the year. I also spoke about how the Pink Loerie has opened up doors for me since being part of the South African delegation to Mr Gay World 2013 in Antwerp, where Christopher Olwage absolutely blew audiences away, as he took the title that year and has since proven a very worthy winner through his inspirational black swan project and various other projects he has committed himself to. In 2014 Pink Loerie lived up to its reputation of ushering in a new and exciting chapter of my life. During last year’s festival I got to meet the wonderful guys from Triarc who were one of the festival sponsors. I subsequently joined their team in July last year as the call centre manager and have been witness to the ground breaking work Triarc does as the very first LGBTI insurance provider in Africa. With this year’s Globeflight Pink Loerie Mardi Gras & Arts festival Knysna, in association with Triarc and Mr GSA, my heart is absolutely bubbling with excitement. Not only are we welcoming all the Mr Gay World delegates to this festival, but we are also seeing the birth of the very first Wigstock Festival Southern Africa - a festival that I believe will elevate the art of drag in South Africa. I am sure that most will agree, especially the older generation, that drag has always been the centre of the LGBTI culture. However, it saddens me to say that as our community has grown, the art of drag has been moved to the back burner. It’s almost as if a community that fought for the rights we enjoy today by going against the current, refusing to compromise who we are and using our differences

to make our voices heard, has now gone back into the closet. Some of us might feel that the battle is over as the burden of discrimination does not weigh so heavily on us. As South Africans we have one of the most liberal constitutions in the world as we are now guaranteed the freedom to love whom we choose and be who we are. We must also remember that this freedom came at a cost. Those who came before us fought bravely for the rights we enjoy today through blood, sweat and tears. We also need to be mindful that the freedom to be who we are and love whom we choose is not a reality for all the LGBTI people on our continent and around the world. I sincerely hope that this fact brings to mind the saying that ‘We are not free, until all of us are free”. So this year as we kick off the very first Wigstock Festival in Southern Africa, let’s step out of the closet and reclaim the flamboyance, uniqueness and charisma that our colourful LGBTI flag represents. Let’s celebrate the milestones we have achieved and let our brothers and sisters across the globe know the battle is not over, in the hope

that one day we will all be equal and the freedom to be who we are and love who we choose will be a reality for us all. Wigstock will take place at Pink Candy from 29 April - 3 May 2014. With drag shows every afternoon this promises to be jam-packed with entertainment. We have secured ten of the very best drag acts our country has to offer, giving you a variety of acts suitable for every palate. On behalf of all the Wigstock Southern Africa performers, I would like to thank the Pink Loerie Organising Committee (PLOC), all the sponsors with special mention to Werner and Renier Nienaber, whose passion for the art of drag warms my heart. Now more than ever I look forward to what the future holds and may Wigstock SA grow from strength to strength. Yours Fabulously Miss Brown xoxo

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FourPaws

The FOUR PAWS team are passionate about our wine, but we are also passionate about animals, particularly cats. We aim to infuse our wines with elegance and balance, the same characteristics shown by a cat as it ambles confidently along a garden wall. Cats exhibit fine senses, and this is what we want people to experience when they see, smell and taste our wines.

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Knysna Animal Welfare Society Caring for poodles and all other breeds We couldn’t do it without your support & generosity Donations: FNB, Branch Code 250655, Branch Name Knysna, Account Number 52700033146

Thanks to Jason O’Malley for the illustration jasonomalley.com

tribute to zoe morkel

by Elaine Levitte It was a sad day for the whole of Knysna when Zoe Morkel passed away in November 2014. Zoe was one of the town’s much-loved ‘characters’, known for her sparkling personality and especially the love and kindness that she showed to animals. The sight of Zoe walking on Leisure Isle with her beloved miniature horse, Jurassic, is one firmly imprinted in many peoples’ memories.

Knysna Animal Welfare Society 1 Marlin Street, Hunters Home, Knysna 044 384 1603. Emergency 073 461 9825 kaws@lantic.net www.knysnaaws.com or find us on Facebook KAWS charity shop Market Street, Knysna

Zoe donated much of her time and energy to Knysna Animal Welfare Society (KAWS), from the very early days when the organisation was in its infancy, and right through her years of illness. Just two weeks before she died, she was still helping to organise the Boerie Bash, an annual fund-raising event that she had championed for many years. One of Zoe’s favourite projects was the Pink Loerie Parade, and each year, everybody looked forward to seeing what sort of float she would come up with to raise money for KAWS. Last year, despite her deteriorating health, Zoe and her friend Jenny Frost took on the roles of Thelma & Louise and wowed the crowd in their little pink Beetle. This year Zoe’s friends are putting together a very special float in her memory and will be celebrating a life most definitely worth celebrating. A fitting tribute to a very special woman – gone but never to be forgotten.

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all around knysna

by Fran Kirsten

KNYSNA The beautiful town of Knysna, situated 73kms from the George airport, is situated within 157 000 hectares of the proclaimed Garden Route National Park. It is nestled between the shores of the pristine Knysna estuary, Indian Ocean and thousands of hectares of beautiful indigenous forest, home to a myriad of wildand birdlife as well as the famed Cape fynbos. Knysna is synonymous with its magnificent oysters, and visitors can explore its natural beauty through

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mountain biking and hiking trails, whale watching and boating charters. A wide variety of accommodation is available all year round. The town offers three magnificent golf courses. Simola Golf Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus (The Golden Bear), Pezula Champion Golf Course and Knysna Golf Course all lie within 6kms of the town’s centre. Bordering on the Pezula Estate the historic Noetzie offers real castles, a sandy beach and fascinating bird watching. SEDGEFIELD The quaint coastal town of Sedgefield, first Citaslow accredited town in Africa and the slow-town of Naturally Knysna, is surrounded by a magnificent coastal lake-system and five sandy beaches along the Indian Ocean shoreline Sedgefield has abundant fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, paragliding, suerfing and safe swimming areas. Besides the natural beauty that surrounds this tranquil village, Sedgefield’s Saturday markets showcase the wealth of its talen and organic oods produced by the close-knit farming community. KARATARA Karatara, situated 27.8kms from Knysna and 22.6kms from Sedgefield is steeped in rich history dating back to 1939 when the indigenous forests were closed to local woodcutters. The then government provided housing to these ousted woodcutters and Karatara was born. As with many historic South African towns, the spindle of the Dutch Reformed Church stands as a beacon, welcoming visitors to share in the history of this village. The beautiful Outeniqua Mountain Range forms a perfect backdrop to this rural village. When gold was discovered in the Karatara River in 1875 Thomas Bain was tasked with providing a route to accommodate the ensuing gold rush. Bain engineered the beautiful Homtini Pass when the Homitini Gorge needed to be crossed by the many prospectors. Today this magnificent pass still amazes all who pass through it. Travelling from Karatara it curls to the bottom for 2.5kms before rising through dense indigenous forest. An absolute must for the traveller, be it by bicycle, motorcycle, horse, foot or motor-vehicle. BUFFELS BAY Buffels Bay, better known to many as Buffalo Bay, is situated 21.2kms from Knysna and 23.3kms from Sedgefield within the beautiful 2 500 hectare

Goukamma Nature Reserve. It is home to the special protected Oyster Catchers, which nests on the expansive white sandy beaches. These beaches are safe for swimming, surfing, kayaking and other water-sports. The beautiful rock pools around this grassy peninsula lends itself perfectly to snorkelling. Buffels Bay has two beaches, one that stretches West to Sedgefield and beyond. The other beach leads to Brenton-on-Sea to the East. While walking along these you are bound to see dolphins playing in the surf and, during the season, whales frolicking just beyond the breakers. Hikers can enjoy several walks beginning in Buffels Bay. Several include the experience of crossing the Goukamma River by pont. The magnificent circular bush Pig Trail meanders inland up and along dunes, through pristine coastal forest down to the sea. This trail then doubles back, ending with the pont crossing the Goukamma River. RHEENENDAL Rheenendal, a short scenic 12km drive West of Knysna, showcases both the magnificent Knysna Estuary and Outeniqua Mountain views. The area is rich with green pastures, indigenous forests, vacated mine shafts, crafters and artists. The area is further known for its wonderful biodiversity of flora and fauna on the many walking trails. Many famous and talented artists have made Rheenendal their home. The recently established Rheenendal Ramble allows visitors to experience art and several home industries established along the route. Experience the nostalgia of yesteryear and stay overnight in one of the renovated Rheenendal Woodcutters Forest Cottages. Exploring the Materolli Museum will certainly take you back to the Millwood Goldfield Gold Rush of 1876. Wander through the ghost town of the Old Millwood Mining Village and see the restored Bendigo mining equipment. BRENTON-ON-SEA Brenton-on-Sea, 13.8kms from Knysna and 71.7kms from the George Airport derived its name from Sir Jahleel Brenton, who declared Knysna a harbour in 1818. This area is home to the endangered Brenton Blue butterfly. It lies behind the majestic Western Knysna Head and is virtually encircled by the Goukamma Nature Reserve with its fynbos filled slopes. Brenton-onSea’s Blue Flag accredited beach enables visitors to safely walk while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. As in Buffels Bay, dolphins can often be seen surfing the waves while whales frolic in the bay.

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Secondly, education surrounding sexual orientation is lacking in South Africa and society should be made aware that persons with other sexual orientations live the same normal lives as any other goal-orientated straight person, Finally, we have to face the fact that no matter how much the LGBT+ community does to try and educate society, there will always still be those few who continue to discriminate, not even realising that sexual orientation is a protected human right. These “gaps” was used as the source to form the strategies of The Proud Voice Organisation with an overall purpose to address issues surrounding discrimination against the basic human right of sexual orientation as contained in section 9 of the Constitution of South Africa. The organisation aims to achieve this broad purpose by means of the following three main strategies as follow:

emerging lgbt + rights activist After matriculating from the Alexandria High in 2005, Ian Ferreira moved to Port Elizabeth where he completed his BCom degree (NMMU) and Postgraduate bridging in Accounting Science (NDP) (UNISA). During his University studies he served as the Executive Treasurer on the committee of the NMMU Ballroom- and Latin American Dance Organisation, Committee member of the 2008 Ballroom Nationals and Supplemental Instruction leader in Labour Law and Computing Fundamentals. These additional activities contributed to develop his pervasive and leadership skills which secured him an exceptional merit award in Student Governance and Development (in 2008) and three consecutive Exceptional Merit Awards as an SI Leader (from 2007 – 2009), awarded by the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. Ian is currently employed as a full-time Audit Senior at a well-known audit firm and utilises his education and leadership skills gained from university

activities to fulfil his LGBT+ rights activism journey in his free time, which started shortly after “coming out” and moving to Port Elizabeth. Today Ian's passions towards LGBT+ rights lead him to be part of the guidance and strategic operations as a board member of three different LGBT+ related non-profit organisations, namely the Nelson Mandela Bay Pride, Proud Voice and Tru Colors. Being an LGBT+ rights activist opens your eyes to truly see that there are still major gaps in society that need to be addressed to make South Africa a truly fair and just place for all who lives in it and I wanted to start an organisation that will address these major gaps ”, said Ian. He then started “The Proud Voice”, an organisation run by himself and four other dedicated and enthusiastic activists. “I will never forget the first Proud Voice committee meeting where we had to brainstorm and define the specific strategies of the organisation. I truly think that we came up with a special and unique combination of strategies”. Ian said this brainstorming session during the first committee meeting ultimately identified three critical gaps faced by LGBT+ organisations and persons in South Africa in general: Firstly, many LGBT organisations face great difficulty in securing funding, donations or sponsorship for the purpose of organising LGBT+ events, functions or campaigns.

1. Regularly interacting and assisting other LGBT+ organisations established for the purpose of enhancing tolerance, education or awareness surrounding sexual orientation. This also includes assisting LGBT+ events held by those organisations with financial assistance or sponsorship where those events, functions or campaigns being held is for the purpose of creating awareness or education. 2. The organisation recognises social media is an ever-increasing platform and strives to utilise these platforms to create awareness and education through means of launching media campaigns designed to address critical gaps faced by LGBT+ individuals in the community (think of the well-known NoH8 campaign). The first planned media campaign will show the world how happy- and ordinary LGBT+ families are by means of using LGBT+ families and their children in video- and photo shoots, launched across social media platforms. 3. Assisting LGBT+ individuals who have been discriminated against based on their sexual orientation with legal assistance through freelance attorneys. The committee ultimately wants Proud Voice to become an organisation on which the LGBT+ community of South Africa can rely and the name “Proud Voice” truly fits as we want to proudly represent and speak out for the entire LGBT+ community. Ian is also an active member of Amnesty International, a global movement of more than 7,000,000 people, campaigning for a world where human rights are enjoyed by all. One of the most difficult things to do is to come out in a religious family. I know my family and friends always loves me, but I had to follow a great journey to win their acceptance and understanding. My purpose as an LGBT+ rights activist is therefore not to change the world, but if I can make this journey of acceptance and understanding easier for just one person out there, then my purpose on earth has been fulfilled”.

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sedgefield has so much to offer by Fran Kirsten

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Visitors to this year’s 15th Globeflight Pink Loerie, Mardi Gras & Arts Festival in association with TRIARC & MRGSA will be blown-away by the diverse activities that Sedgefield, the Slow Town of Knysna has to offer. Close to Knysna, Sedgefield will most certainly add a different element to this year’s Pink Loerie Festival. Do not be fooled by Sedgefield’s Slow Town status. Although it has received the first Cittaslow accreditation in Africa, Sedgefield also caters for thrill seekers who constantly chase the adrenalin rush. PARAGLIDING Driving to the top of Cloud 9, a hill between the village and the beautiful Ruigtevlei, offers magnificent views of Sedgefield and its beautiful natural surroundings. Here you can lift your feet and fly as several paragliding companies offer tandem jumps and / or training from this site. Paragliders will tell you that nothing beats the absolute silence and peace of gliding over one of the most spectacular views in the Garden Route. KITE-SURFING, SUP, SURFING AND MANY MORE Now that the air has been conquered, why not attempt to add another element - water - by learning how to kite-board. Pili Pili (which means Chili in Spanish) Xtreme situated at Myoli Beach offers kite-surfing lessons, stand-up paddling (SUP), surfing, wake boarding as well as kitesurfing. Once you have experienced the thrill of these, collapse in their beach bar which really is a beach bar, sand and all. CYCLING Cycleworx is the go-to when it comes to anything

cycling. In including the earth element – you will be able to rent single, tandem and even tri-seater bicycles (that always end up with the cyclists in hysterics) from them. Further Cycleworx will advise cyclist on the best cycle route that matches their need and fitness. CANOEING AND KAYAKING Sedgefield can also be enjoyed from the water. Hop on-board Abundant Life Guesthouse’s boat cruise and see the majestic Fish Eagles and other bird species that inhabit the Swartvlei. If being ferried around seems too sedate, then rent a kayak and paddle from the Swartvlei mouth, up the river into the beautiful Swartvlei. Sedgefield Tourism will recommend where you could rent a kayak or canoe from. GOLF Sedgefield falls within the Golfing mecca of the Garden Route and boasts with two golf courses. There is more to these mashie (short) golf courses than meets the eye. So accept the challenge and you’ll be ensured to finish in good time to for other festivities. The Sedge Links, just outside Sedgefield offers pot bunkers and some tricky coastal grass on their many mounds protecting the greens. Golfers are advised to bring a couple of extra balls along when playing here. Blackwaters River Lodge Mashie Golf Course, opposite the Buffels Bay turnoff on the N2 is a park mashie golf course. Many of these short holes are played ‘blind’ as the greens are not visible from the tees as the beautiful old trees block the view, but as well as the ball. ARTS AND CRAFTS AND THE MOSAIC ART TOUR A myriad of highly talented artists and crafters have this town their forever home. Thanks to them the village offers several are galleries, interesting crafts as well as collectible gems. The new and exceptional Mosaic Route demonstrates the closeness and caring of Sedgefield inhabitants. This project saw the community join hands with Masithandane (a local NPO) to beautify the town by adding 40 individual mosaic landmarks. These mosaics can be admired on the tour, and the Mosaic Crafters offer an Interactive Mosaic Workshop every Wednesday for all interested parties. SATURDAY MARKETS Sedgefield has three Saturday markets; the Wild Oats Community Farmer’s Market, Mosaic Market and the Scarab Craft Markets. Each offers visitors and locals something unique. Find locally produced food, indigenous plants, arts and crafts, wood-turning and paper making from elephant dung.

will enjoy this market just outside Sedgefield. This market was started by local residents Rose Brettell and Susan Garner 15 year ago – which makes it exactly the same age as the Pink Loerie Festival! The market was inspired by the authentic original country marketplaces where townsfolk could gather to buy goods from the area while catching up on the local news. MOSAIC MARKET In the middle of the market area, lies the Mosaic Market that also offers locally produces arts and crafts to books, both old and new, and music. The indoor section of the Mosaic Market, Collections is open during the week as well as Saturdays. Thanks to the passion of market owner, Cliff Elion for smooth, full-bodied consistent coffee, visitors can now savour exquisite java made with freshly ground South American blended beans. Coffee beans are available for sale along with slow roasted nuts, rusks, biscuits and chocolate brownies. SCARAB VILLAGE A few metres further is the interesting Scarab Village, started in December 2006. This village houses a paper and craft centre that makes paper from elephant dung while you watch and a busy Saturday Craft Market. The Red Shed is a beautifully crafted boma, the hub of the Saturday Craft Market. Besides the fascinating products for sale at this craft market, the stallholders are fun and unique characters. OYSTERS-R-US What would a visit to the home of the Knysna Pick n Pay Oyster Festival be without tasting those wonderful molluscs, oysters? At Oysters-R-Us, just off the N2 outside Sedgefield, you get to sample a variety of oysters (fresh wild oysters included), and watch as feisty owners, Natasha De Freitas and Natalie Olivier demonstrate how to perfectly shuck this perfect aphrodisiac. Oysters are kept on site in special tanks which can house up to 400 oysters each. Why not pop in and meet Natasha and Natalie and let them share their vast knowledge while you sample the oysters and sip on perfectly chilled wine. Oysters-R-Us offers others snacks besides oysters. SEDGEFIELD TOURISM OFFICE Whatever the activity, Sedgefield will most definitely leave you with a host of warm memories that will bring a smile to your face on recollection. For further information of what Sedgefield, the Slow Town of Knysna has to offer, pop into the Sedgefield Tourism office in the Main Service Road or call Belinda Hobson on 044 343 2658.

WILD OATS COMMUNITY FARMER’S MARKET Discerning food lovers who love natural produce,

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kurland hotel

The 5-star Kurland Hotel is located near the picturesque beach resorts of Plettenberg Bay on the breathtaking Garden Route. This iconic hotel offers guests luxurious accommodation, fine dining at the multiple award-winning Kurland Restaurant or during the summer months at Katarina’s at The Barn, which is ideal for families. Guests also have the option to relax in the new Sanctuary Signature Spa for an array of treatments.

The 700-hectare Estate has 12 tastefully decorated and spacious suites. For the comfort of guests all suites have oversized beds, exquisite linens, huge en suite bathrooms, a lounge area and terrace and are equipped with modern facilities such as telephones, discreetly positioned flat screen televisions, offering multiple satellite channels, complimentary wifi, safes, mini bars, heated towel rails, under floor heating and roaring fires for the milder months. Guests can enjoy a unique dining experience at the Kurland Restaurant with its ever changing organic seasonal menu. Alternatively in summer, Katarina’s Kitchen at The Barn offers a light yet extensive bistro style menu that emphasises a tranquil, informal alfresco dining atmosphere, which is also perfect for families to enjoy and is the perfect place for languid Sunday brunches. The Sanctuary Signature Spa offers guests a relaxing place to unwind and pamper themselves during their stay. Facilities include a private steam room, sauna room, therapy rooms, relaxation area, gym and a refreshing plunge pool. Treatments can also be taken in the privacy of the guest’s suite. This luxurious sanctuary, with the staff to guest ratio ensuring highly personalised service and fine cuisine, enables guests to relax in the peace and tranquillity of the magnificent grounds. Guests are also offered a personalised itinerary of activities and experiences suited to each guest’s wishes. Guests may spend lazy days simply reading a book, making use of the 1st class equestrian facilities on the Estate, relaxing in the Spa or enjoying a mountain or quad bike ride to discover more of this pristine 700 hectare property. The surrounding area, including the Tsitsikamma Nature Reserve offers a multitude of family activities for all to enjoy. Kurland Hotel is also ideal for honeymoons and bespoke weddings due to the very many locations available around the Estate in order to create a truly memorable occasion. Kurland Hotel, The Crags, N2, Plettenberg Bay, 6602, South Africa P.O. Box 209, The Crags 6602, South Africa Tel: +27 (44) 534 8082 Fax: +27 (44) 534 8699 Email:info@kurland.co.za

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The Sanctuary Signature Spas The Sanctuary Signature Spas Group has become a leading expert in creating, managing and marketing 5-star spas at award-winning hotels, lodges and wine estates. Through delivering a constant high standard and, more importantly, a hands-on approach to aftercare, guests are assured of unique experiences at each and every spa. Since the Group was founded we have pioneered new approaches to spa conceptualisation and have

contributed to designing spas that take advantage of the magnificent wealth of that particular country; including quality people, excellent training and mentoring facilities and exquisite spa venues in spectacular settings. Each initiative is designed with every aspect carefully considered, including

signature treatments to suit establishment and its guests.

the

particular

Contact Details: 021 683 7593 Email: newlands@sanctuaryspa.co.za www.sanctuarysignaturespas.co.za

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is paramount. How do you juggle what has to be a very impressive client list that you have? It becomes the norm after doing it for so long. I think multi-tasking is one of the greatest assets a PR can have. It’s not acquired overnight though and the hours are long. Even when I’m at home I’m still thinking of work, creating to do lists and coming up with new creative ideas for clients. My mind never stops. What are the things you’re most proud of having achieved, from any time in your career? I would have to say that opening many of the fine hotels, lodges and restaurants in South Africa is something I am very proud of. Seeing them grow from strength to strength each year, growing in popularity is incredibly humbling. Could you describe one of your typical workdays?

getting to know pete unsworth in 20 questions: by The P.R. Team You are regarded as one of the leading PR & Publicity companies in the country so what is the secret to your ongoing success? The secret is not a secret at all, it’s simply being honest with clients and giving them the best advice at all times. At the end of the day, it’s what is right for them. There are so many different forms of PR and publicity, to clarify for our readers what is the bases of the industry and services offered? The core focus of PR is to create communication platforms so that your chosen audience knows what the company or product or service is about and what they intend doing. Clarity of communication

I wish there was something typical in a PR’s workday but every day is completely different as you never know what may happen with clients, media and service suppliers. One thing is for sure is that we are always on deadline due to us working with international media and working around time zones. What’s your most and least favourite part of your job? My favourite part is gaining great results for clients; that puts a smile in my soul. Least favourite is all the paperwork/paper trails we have to keep and reports are my absolute worst admin job. Is there anything your company has been doing lately that you find interesting? We were recently part of the release of two lionesses saved from a circus in Europe and now set free at The Born Free Centre at Shamwari Game Reserve. Being part of a team that made this happen is very special. We are also working with Habitat for Humanity and the work they do, building homes for people and passing on multiple skill sets is incredibly humbling. If you could start all over again, would you change your career path in any way? Why? Not at all, I believe that life is all about gear changing through it. I can certainly say that I never thought for a moment, when I was a dancer, which was my first career, I would end up in PR and publicity. In a nutshell, how did you get involved in PR? When working on world cruises I became involved with office work and arranging the shows, entertainment and itineraries and that sparked my interest in not only expanding my creative mind but also making me realise the importance of good planning. I went back to college to study PR and then got a position as a Resort Public Relations Officer at Sun City.

University or life experience, which do you feel best prepares you for life? Without question life experiences! When I interview for new team members, qualifications really aren’t important to me, it’s all about the person and their energy and experiences. What was your first job? My first job after graduating from the Northern Ballet School, UK, was as a dancer and the show I was in toured South America. So what do you do to remove stress from your very busy life? I am passionate about Pilates and last year I actually qualified as a BASI Pilates instructor! The only time I can clear my mind of anything work related is when I’m in the studio working out. 13 Describe yourself in three sentences. I would like to think that I’m a person that sees the bigger picture in life. A workaholic, as my mind never stops thinking of creative ways that will help clients. As a friend I will go to the ends of the earth to make your life as easy as possible What are your interests or hobbies? Pilates and general fitness, good food/nutrition and spending true, quality times with friends. If you could only keep five possessions, what would they be? My passport and my Father’s watch, that’s all. Nothing else is really that important to me. What chore do you absolutely hate doing? Grocery shopping. I absolutely despise grocery shopping. So much so that I can do a weekly shop in about 10 to 15 minutes. Where do you most want to travel, but have never been Fortunately, due to my dance career, I’ve been around the world a few times but haven’t been to the Taj Mahal yet so that is on my bucket list. If you were lucky enough to win the lottery, what would you do? I certainly wouldn’t buy into the ego of fast cars and big houses – that is just not me at all. What I would do is make some dreams come true for family and close friends. What is your favourite music? Chilled, relaxed music that is easy on the ear. I don’t really have a favourite musician, singer or genre. What’s the most-played song on your iPod? At the moment, Sam Smith’s latest cd. Wow what a unique voice he has!

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skywise is official airline partner Skywise is the proud official airline partner, providing special support for people going to this event. We have made sure that travelers from Johannesburg to Cape Town, attending this event, fly at an affordable fare. There are no hidden costs to our prices, what you see, is what you get! The airline is dedicated to developing new markets and will keep searching for opportunities that may offer expansion scope for us, both in the short and medium term. In this regard and besides associating with this festival, we have since our formation proudly extended our valuable support and partnership to events and organizations like the Human Rights Day and the Cape Town Cycle Tour. We are the first airline to officially recognize the former. Skywise’s entry into the domestic market has been well received by the travelling market that are giving constructive and warm feedback. We thank our passengers, for their kind support. Whoever we support, we look forward to being of service and to remain their most-loved airline. Our quest is to break new ground and under two months, our presence is being felt across the domestic air travel front. For the first time in the

domestic air passenger history, we are driving domestic competitors to have to really rethink hard about their price structure or compelling them to add value to their services or products. It is rewarding for Skywise to enjoy competition while influencing change in the way the South African airline industry prices their fares. This trend has consumers, rather than the airlines, being outright winners in the end!” says Tabassum Qadir and J. Malik, Skywise Co-Chairpersons. For Skywise, low prices are always great both for us and the citizens, and in line with our saying “For us people come first”. We want ALL South Africans to take up to the skies in huge numbers. It is due to our low-cost rate of R499 between Johannesburg and Cape Town that we are currently trending in the local air travel industry. Skywise’s wish is that its humble entry on to the domestic market will continue to influence the drop of prices, more than ever before. In line with the current positioning of Skywise, our service goes beyond low-cost travel, with a splash of high end flying experiences on offer. This affords air passengers the experiences of both worlds under one roof. We have committed to be innovative in connecting communities, a testimony to our alertness to engage and welcome all South Africans to previously unmapped markets, with nationally important events that make business sense.

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speaker at council meeting in pajamas pajamas. "If I'm not there, the meeting cannot be held," said a grinning, but visibly pale and frail Dawson, assisted by his life partner Dr Colin Lang. He further explained that he had joined the party in 1970, under the leadership of Helen Suzman. "I joined the party to fight for true democracy in our country, how can I, at this stage, let them down as the speaker. I will attend, even if it’s from my hospital bed."

KNYSNA NEWS - A reader said that she was lost in admiration after noticing a photograph depicting the Knysna speaker, Councilor Richard Dawson, attending a council meeting dressed in his pajamas. "So many of our [South African] politicians are often absent without leave, and here is a man who gets out of his hospital bed to attend to his duties." In what is surely a first, Speaker Dawson got up from his bed at Knysna Private Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) on Friday, August 12 to attend an important closed council meeting, dressed in his

Although Dawson was not willing to divulge which topic was on the agenda at the time, it has now come to light that the termination of Municipal Manager Johnny Douglas’ employment contract (article elsewhere) was the reason behind the speaker being fetched from hospital to attend.

Dr Lang explained how Dawson had collapsed: "It took the entire day to stabilise him after he blacked out while in the shower," explained Dr Lang. He further said that Dawson’s physician, Dr Johan Viljoen, had arranged for him to be transferred to the Mossel Bay cardiac clinic where he would undergo a cardiac angiogram (an X-ray test that uses a special dye and camera - fluoroscopy - to take pictures of the blood flow in an artery) and further cardiac tests. Depending on these results it will later be decided whether Dawson would need to have a pace marker inserted to keep his heart rate constant. Mayor Wolmarans wishes Councilor Dawson, a comfortable and easy recovery. "My thoughts go out to his nearest and dearest. Councilor Dawson is a very resilient man and I am sure that we will be welcoming a healthy speaker back to council chambers in no time."

According to Dawson, on his arrival, accompanied by Knysna Executive Mayor Georlene Wolmarans, at the council chambers, Knysna Council members all applauded his effort.

The mayor was joined by acting Municipal Manager Lauren Waring in wishing Dawson a speedy recovery, saying: "The administration wishes the speaker a speedy recovery. We appreciate his dedication to his duties as ward councilor and speaker, but we urge Councilor Dawson to take all the time necessary to facilitating a full recovery."

The wisdom of his decision was, however questioned by many after his health deteriorated on Sunday, August 14.

ARTICLE: FRAN KIRSTEN, KNYSNA-PLETT HERALD REPORTER 18 August 2011

thank you councilor

richard dawson We wish to thank Councilor Richard Dawson for his tireless support of the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras & Arts Festival™. Richard was a founding member of the first Pink Loerie in 2000, and has since become an elected Councilor and Speaker of Knysna. After many years in public office, Richard is now retiring. We wish to wish him and his life partner (of more than 45 years!), Dr. Colin Lang, the best for the future and hope to see you at many Pink Loerie festivals to come!

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Teniqua Treetops It's more than a one night stay

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www.teniquatreetops.co.za queries@teniquatreetops.co.za +27 (0)44 356-2868

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globeflight: best among the best express courier by Adriaan Viljoen With a national footprint of 16 offices and an international footprint in 8 countries including some African countries, Hong Kong, Israel and the United Kingdom; it is no wonder that Globeflight is one of South Africa’s largest and most renowned express couriers. Globeflight offers a bouquet of integrated courier and logistic solutions from urgent same-day and dawn deliveries to less time sensitive budget and road freight options. Our specialty lies in express deliveries of many products, anywhere, 24 seven 365. With a fleet of over 300 vehicles and passionate staff of over 700 courier heroes, going the extra mile is a standard practice. The above is under pinned by an unrelenting drive for excellence and innovation. Accordingly we have supplied all our drivers with hand held devices to ensure a front-to-back digital platform to optimize speed, transparency and accuracy in all administration, monitoring and reporting systems. There has also been a substantial investment in the security systems to ensure the safety of your cargo in the full cycle of our transit processes. This past year saw Globeflight solidify leadership in the optical industry through the acquisition of Mercury Couriers. Our capacity to deliver versatile, around-the-clock deliveries geared to the optometry market; alongside Mercury’s robust in-city offer has made us the largest distributor of optical products on the continent. Similarly we are expanding our leadership into the areas of blood and other time sensitive medical product

conveyance. At Globeflight we make it evident that “client is king”-: this through direct contact with numerous people in our client’s organization, through giving all clients direct electronic access to the progress of their cargo at all times, through auditing reviewing reporting on all services to clients. We make exceptions-often-to keep the clients experience positive and keep our exceptional service rate scoring. Acting as an extension of our clients business, both far afield and within their own premises, we build long term relationships that work for all parties. After a long service partnership, the green Globeflight brand is synonymous with the Springboks with IronMan as our more recent sport brand that we sponsor, this is evidence of excellence in sport and business working together. Other business focuses for Globeflight remain support for wildlife conservancy, especially in terms of saving the rhino. We represent the green colour further by re-cycling correctly at all our facilities and making concerted efforts to reduce reliance on electricity where possible.

growth and reward them for excellence to ensure optimal delivery to you, our client. We encourage staff towards creative solutions within the scope of our proven and trusted systems and foster leadership at every level of operation. We believe in lifelong learning and growth by offering training, bursaries for both local and international university studies and a variety of skills programs and learnerships for practical workplace tuition. With our 8 nominations over the last 10 years by P.M.R as the best courier in our class, our service stats and our client retention ability, we are confident, while we prepare for formal ISO accreditation, that we will be given this Systems and Processes accreditation towards the middle to end of 2015. National number: 0861 388 883 Tel: +27 (11) 922 2600 Web: www.globeflight.com 106 Loper Avenue, Spartan Ext. 2, Gauteng, 1620

We support organizations such as SANBS with continual blood drives at our branches and CANSA Association though delivering their Shavathon initiative. Globeflight staff is our biggest asset and trump card for our competitive edge in the marketplace. We select our personnel carefully, nurture them for

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James Fouche is a crime author living in the Garden Route. His latest novel, King of Sorrow, was released December 2014. James also keeps a blog about what an author gets up to when he is not writing. Polvo is a speciality South American coffee shop in the heart of Knysna. We aim to serve the perfect cup and to offer light eats.

COFFEE AND CRIME For those who appreciate a good cup, come share a passion for coffee with crime author James Fouche. From bean to cup, from cappuccino to cortado, stop in for an exotic South American experience. Dates: 29 April, 30 April, 01 May 2015 Time: 17:00 - 19:00 Polvo Coffee Bar in Main Square Knysna www.jamesfouche.com @james_fouche http://jamesfouche.wordpress.com

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boeretroos By Wim Vorster

Tussen hulle hang ’n stilte wat nie ongemaklik is nie; dog nog ongevul met die warmte en vertroue wat jarelange vriende woordeloos kan geniet. Al het hulle onmiddellik aanklank gevind, ontbreek die wedersydse kennis en begrip wat net mettertyd opgebou word sodat gesprekke soms oorbodig raak daardie gerusstelling dat nie elke sekonde met ’n gebabbel oorbrug hoef te word nie. Of hulle aan mekaar en die voorafgaande gesprek of aan hulself dink, is moeilik te oordeel. Vir my wat binne hoorafstand van hulle sit en moet voorgee dat ek glad nie luister en/of belang stel nie, is dit net duidelik dat onuitgesproke gedagtes op die oomblik belangriker is as mededelings. Ek is nie alomteenwoordig met telepatiese insig in alle karakters nie. Hulle skenk min aandag aan my. Vir hulle is ek waarskynlik net nog ’n pretensieuse persoon met ’n skootrekenaar in ’n koffiekroeg. Ou alleenloper. Inderdaad. Die volle waarheid is dat genoemde skootrekenaar (‘lap top’ klink darem te veel na die danseresse by Teazers) tegelyk as afskrikmiddel en vermomming dien. Mense kom nie agter dat ek hulle waarneem nie. Hulle sluit ook nie sommer ongenooid by my aan nie. Wat juis die geval is met die twee hier oorkant. Hy het ’n hele rukkie alleen gesit terwyl die plek volgeloop het. Ek kon my verlustig aan hom. Nie soseer beeldskoon as so ongewoon nie. Soos een van die karakters in Pier Paolo Pasolini se Il vangelo secondo Matteo (Die Evangelie volgens Mattheus). Indringende, deurdringende oë. Wye mond. Donker hare en blas vel. Goeie lyf. Mediterreens. Maar wanneer hy koffie en wortelkoek bestel, eg Afrikaans. En soos JG altyd opgemerk het: “Daar is min wat die katel so kan vat soos ’n boerklong.” Hy was nie onvriendelik toe sy half verlore op soek na ’n sitplek rondgestaan het nie, maar ook nie juis aanmoedigend nie. Inderwaarheid het hy ’n slag of wat tersluiks na my kant geloer in die hoop, glo ek, dat ek die galante heer sal wees. Vir haar was ek seker ook die opsigtelike veilige keuse. Ou man. Neus in die skerm. Toe neem haar avontuursin duidelik oor, want sy vra in ewe goeie Afrikaans of hy sal omgee as sy oorkant hom by sy tafel sit. Toe is hý galant en staan op en help haar met die stoel. My naam is Anja en ek is jammer dat ek jou privaatheid steur.”

Ironies hoe ’n mens omring van ander tog sielsaliglik alleen kan wees.

getroud nie. Die ‘skoonma’ is maar meer ’n grap. Ons het baie van mekaar gehou.”

Ek kon maar iewers anders gegaan het, maar ek hou so van die koffie hier.”

Jy en haar ma?” Sy ma.” Jammer oor die misgissing.”

Einste. En al hulle gebak is voortreflik.” Nè?! ’n Man wat duidelik nie te lank gelede nie sy dertigste verjaardag gevier het wat praat van ‘gebak’ en dit as ‘voortreflik’ beskryf... Sy plaas haar bestelling, syne word bedien en hulle gesels lekker stukke. Nie ditjies en datjies nie. Onderwerpe. Die nuus. Ou nuus. Spear of the Nation. Rafa Nadal se kanse in die volgende Franse Ope. Nicola Hanekom se Trilogie (Betesda, Lot en Babbel) wat in en om Pretoria aangebied is. Haar koffie en kaaskoek word bedien en deur die eet en drink praat hulle nog. Oor ’n onlangse uitstalling van Susanna Swart se beeldhouwerk by die Pretoria Kunsvereniging wat Anja bygewoon het. Dis wanneer die hervul koffie geskink word dat die gesprek soort van opdroog. Die bruinsuiker is gedaan en om die stilte te verbreek, vra hy vir nog. Portia is haastig om te bring. Ek bestel ook nog ’n koppie filterkoffie. Sonder melk. Met bruinsuiker. Anja haal ’n Penguin modern classic uit haar sak en wil begin lees, maar kyk eers na Henk. Dankie dat ek hier mag sit. Dis my daaglikse ontvlugting.”

Genade! En ek dog dit staan op my voorkop geskryf. Ek dog dis hoekom jy kans gesien het om by ’n wildvreemdeling te kom sit.” Nee, boetie, dit staan nie op jou voorkop geskryf nie. Mense wil altyd so graag dink hulle kan gays uitken of onderskei. Niks aan jou voorkoms verraai jou lewenstyl nie. Toe dié pragtige dame by jou aansluit, het ek ’n nuwe romanse voorsien. En was heimlik nydig. Nie dat jy ooit in my rigting sal kyk nie. Ou man. Bles. Verweer. Impotent. Als behalwe. My gaydar is sterk, maar jy was die enigste een wat gelyk het of ek dit kan waag om te vra.” Ja, reg. Steek my ’n punt. Maar dis die waarheid. Ek wil nie iemand aan my tafel hê aan wie ek dalk moet aandag skenk nie. My uitsluitlike doel is om af te luister. Wat het gebeur, of wil jy nie daaroor praat nie? Ons ken mekaar nie.”

Ja, snaaks dat ons mekaar nog nie tevore raakgeloop het nie. My gewone tyd is elfuur, seker daarom.”

Dit maak dit eintlik makliker. Ek was so in my eer gekrenk en stukkend, my vriende het geweet om my uit te los.”

Ja. Ek kom weer altyd wanneer die ergste gedrang van middagete oor is. Vandag is anders.”

Dalk is jy beter daaraantoe sonder hom, maar dis sy verlies, dink ek.”

Ja. Die plek is bedrywig. Sitplek is, soos my gewese skoonma sal sê, so skaars soos ’n kunsrolprent in Koekenaap.”

Ons ken mekaar nie, jy’s reg. Moenie te gou oordeel nie. Dis vir my sleg om alleen te wees en ek hou nie van ‘one night stands’ nie. My huis is groot en leeg.”

Ja, Arme Koekenaap. So.... jy is geskei.”

Wat doen jy? En bedoel... wat is jou beroep?” Argitek. Jy?”

Ek is Henk en jy steur glad nie.” Uitmekaar. Na amper agt jaar. Ons was nie amptelik

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Sy lag. ’n Kop agteroor, ongedwonge en hartlike lag. “Trap ek in my eie slaggat. Betaalde biegmoeder. Psigiater. Dis hoekom ek so nuuskierig en voorbarig is.” Jy kan terapie toepas én medikasie voorskryf. Daar is nie pille vir hartseer nie.” Daar is nie. Jy’s ook nie pasiënt nie. Ons kan die gesprek net hier beëindig.” Jy is die eerste mens met wie ek in die afgelope drie maande praat. Neem jy debietkaarte?” Sy lag weer. Dieselfde lag. “Ek is ’n ‘shrink’ nie ’n snol nie. Jy’t mos gehoor ek sê jy is nie ’n pasiënt nie.” Dis onregverdig. Jy’s van diens af.” Maar nie van my menswees af nie. As ek nie weet wat tussen julle gebeur het nie, sal ek soos ’n Disprin oplos in water.” Ditto, Anja, ditto. Pomp hom vir inligting. Jammer vir die swak woordkeuse. Eers is dit hortend en dan ’n gerammel. Ag, nou ja, hy....uh....het....hy was neuroties oor HIV en wou my....sekere dinge nie toelaat nie. Nietemin, toe moes ek een oggend iets gaan haal wat ek by die huis laat lê het en betrap hom in die bed en my beste vriend in hom. Boonop sonder kondoom... Het jy my gehipnotiseer? Hoekom draaiorrel ek so? Daarna het ek ’n vae empatie met moordenaars. Ek het geweet as ek iets doen, die geringste dingetjie, ek geweldadig

sou raak. Dit was duidelik dat dit nie ’n eerste keer was nie. Toe het ek maar net op die stoel gaan sit en geweier om te huil of om te reageer op hulle hortende verduidelikings en verskonings en doodstil na hulle gekyk toe hulle so haastig soos in ‘fast forward’ hul lywe was en aantrek. Eers ná die indringer weg is, het ek gepraat. Ek het geskrik vir my eie stem, want daar was g’n lewe in nie. ‘Pak jou goed en kry koers. Moenie eers daaraan dink om te sê jy’s jammer nie. Pak jou goed en gee pad. Jy kan die kar hou. En jy vat net jou eie goed. As jy iets, net iets van my saamvat, sit ek die polisie op jou. Voor ek vanaand terugkom, is jy weg. Sluit en gooi die sleutels in die posbus.’ Fluitfluit my storie is uit. ” Hierdie keer is die stilte spreekwoordelik swanger. Henk het opgemerk dat ek nie meer tik nie en sit en luister. Hy kyk na my. Ek kyk in sy oë, haal my skouers op, lig my regter wenkbrou, sug en glimlag met begrip. Sy kopknik is nouliks merkbaar. Het jy spyt?” vra Anja. Waaroor? Dat ek hom verloor het of so hard opgetree het?” Altwee.” Sal ek ooit weer iemand só lief kry? Op daardie besondere manier? Dalk. Dalk nie. Was ek te hard? Nouliks. Dit was my enigste selfverweer. Hy het buitendien meer besorg gelyk oor die feit dat hulle uitgevang is as dat hy my verneuk het. Daarmee het ek twee vriende prysgegee. Werklike vriende is ook net so skaars soos ’n kunsrolprent in Koekenaap.” Vir seker. My ongevraagde psigoanalitiese waarneming

en raad is dat jy oukêi is. Jy sal nog lank seer hê, maar jy weet waar en hoe om dit soos bemesting vir jou toekoms in te ploeg.” Sy kyk na haar horlosie. “Gits, ek moet loop. Ek moet na iemand gaan luister wat my betaal en vir haar pille voorskryf. Ek weet presies wat ek skuld vir die koffie en kaaskoek. Met fooitjie. Hierso.” Nee. Nee. Ek betaal. Dis die minste wat ek kan doen.” Dankie, Henk. Miskien loop ons mekaar weer raak. Hier’s my kaartjie. Bel gerus as jy ’n gratis biegmoeder nodig het.” Sy is weg. Amper asof sy nooit hier was nie. Nogtans met grasie. Sy het inligting vir my die lig laat sien en net verdamp. Opgelos soos haar Disprin in water. Dalk was sy net 'n muse. 'n Verbeeldingsvlug. Nou kyk ek egter openlik na Henk. Sy elmboog is gestut op die tafel. Sy hand is oor sy oë. Hy huil. Sonder snikke. Van agter sy hand drup die trane op die tafel en op sy skoot. Ignoreer ek dit of vertroos ek? Staan ek tog maar op en gee vir hom al die papierservette op my tafel. Sy is reg, Henk. Dis geykte troos dat tyd genesing bring. Tyd leer 'n mens net om saam met die seer te leef. Jy is jonk. Intelligent. Aantreklik. Jy sal weer iemand ontmoet om jou lewe en huis mee te deel.” Sy hand sak en sy oë lig. Sy stem is ’n winterwind. “Ek wil nie,” sê hy. “Ek wil nie weer iemand ontmoet nie. Nooit nie. Ek wens ek was al so oud soos jy.”

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what to do in the GRNP Knysna

• There are 3 sections of the Park: Wilderness, Knysna and Tsitsikamma. All 3 have a marine and forestry component. Wilderness has a rest camp for camping and accommodation, Knysna has camping decks in Diepwalle, Tsitsikamma has 2 rest camps (Natures Valley and Storms River Rest Camp). • Diepwalle is located at the centre of the Knysna forest. Camping decks in Diepwalle are available at a discounted rate of 25% for all Pink Loerie festival guests. All bookings can be made via 044 302 5600, online or at Thesen Island reception area. The legends museum and a tea garden are closest amenities to the decks. • There are ample short day hiking trails or nature walks close to Diepwalle, including the Elephant trail and others. There also numerous picnic spots including Kranshoek and the Garden of Eden. • The mountain biking hub of the Garden Route is in Harkerville, also part of the Knysna section of the GRNP. Cycling permits can be purchased from reception on Thesen Island or at the Garden of Eden (visible from the N2). A map of the routes is available on the SANParks GRNP website: http:// www.sanparks.org.za/parks/garden_route/ • The scenic Knysna estuary part of the GRNP is ranked number 1 in terms of biodiversity significance. It was declared a Hope Spot for marine life by world renowned marine biologist and diver, Dr Sylvia Earle and Minister of Tourism, Minister Hanekom. Canoes can be hired from Thesen Island, reception area.

Other additional activities in the GRNP

• The Pied Kingfisher trail in the Ebb & Flow Rest Camp (Wilderness) can now be traversed on a Segway. Segways are 2 wheeled, self-balancing battery powered electric vehicles. • Goudveld, an old mining town in the lush afromontane forests is turning into an attraction for visitors to the Garden Route. This popular hide-away is 22 kilometres from Knysna, in Bibby’s Hoek to be exact. It is part of the Garden Route National Park (GRNP) afromontane forests, the largest continuous indigenous forest in South Africa. • There is caravan camping facilities in Wilderness and Tsitsikamma sections of the Park and camping decks in Diepwalle (Knysna forest) • The Tsitsikamma section of the Park has at least 12 Green Flag hiking routes, most of them starting and ending in Storms River. • Great destination for birding enthusiasts and at least 3 bird hides to visit (Granule, Malachite and Rondevlei). There are also plenty of opportunities to spot birds in the forest, in estuaries and lakes of the Park.

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Garden Route National Park | Tel: 044 302 5600 | www.sanparks.org | Accomodation Reservations: (012) 428 9111

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festival programme & map April 30 - May 3 2015

ARTS FESTIVAL EVENTS WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2015 Queens of Wigstock brought to you by Renè & Werner Nienaber Pink Candy Club in association with Zanzibar Night Club 2pm starring Victoria Styles, Corné Rademeyer, Betty Bangles, Kitty De la Renza, Kat Gilardi, Tiara Skye, Angel Lalamore, Manila von Teez, Olivia Mae and Shannin Bronwyn Brown FREE ENTRANCE For those who appreciate a good cup, come share a passion for coffee with crime author James Fouche. From bean to cup, from cappuccino to cortado, stop in for an exotic South American experience. Polvo, 50 Main Road, Knysna, behind Debonairs 7-9pm FREE ENTRANCE THURSDAY 30 APRIL 2015 Globeflight Morning Tea with Emile Minnie Charity Drive Loerie Hof Retirement Home 10am Queens of Wigstock brought to you by Renè & Werner Nienaber Pink Candy Club in association with Zanzibar Night Club 2pm starring Victoria Styles, Corné Rademeyer, Betty Bangles, Kitty De la Renza, Kat Gilardi, Tiara Skye, Angel Lalamore, Manila von Teez, Olivia Mae and Shannin Bronwyn Brown FREE ENTRANCE Art exhibition opening Knysna Fine Arts 6pm Free entrance For those who appreciate a good cup, come share a passion for coffee with crime author James Fouche. From bean to cup, from cappuccino to cortado, stop in for an exotic South American experience. Polvo, 50 Main Road, Knysna, behind Debonairs 7-9pm FREE ENTRANCE FRIDAY 1 MAY 2015 - PUBLIC HOLIDAY Mr Gay World™ Sports & Picnic Day Blackwaters River Lodge N2 Highway, Goukamma 10am Picnic baskets available at 044 383 0105 or 083 739 9175

Queens of Wigstock brought to you by Renè & Werner Nienaber Pink Candy Club in association with Zanzibar Night Club 2pm starring Victoria Styles, Corné Rademeyer, Betty Bangles, Kitty De la Renza, Kat Gilardi, Tiara Skye, Angel Lalamore, Manila von Teez, Olivia Mae and Shannin Bronwyn Brown FREE ENTRANCE Mr Gay World™ President’s Ball and Fundraising Auction The Quteniqua Ballroom, Conrad Pezula Hotel 6pm for 630pm Dress Code: Strictly Black Tie Masquerade R375.00 per person including a 3 Course Dinner CASH BAR available Tickets available at www.quicket.co.za For those who appreciate a good cup, come share a passion for coffee with crime author James Fouche. From bean to cup, from cappuccino to cortado, stop in for an exotic South American experience. Polvo, 50 Main Road, Knysna, behind Debonairs 7-9pm FREE ENTRANCE SATURDAY 2 MAY 2015 Queens of Wigstock brought to you by Renè & Werner Nienaber Pink Candy Club in association with Zanzibar Night Club 12 noon starring Victoria Styles, Corné Rademeyer, Betty Bangles, Kitty De la Renza, Kat Gilardi, Tiara Skye, Angel Lalamore, Manila von Teez, Olivia Mae and Shannin Bronwyn Brown FREE ENTRANCE Annual Street Parade 3pm Depart from Queen Street moving up Main Road to Pledge Square and returning to Queen Street Mr Gay World™ 2015 Knysna South Africa Grand Finale hosted by Globeflight Pink Loerie Mardi Gras & Arts Festival in association with TRIARC & MRGSA financed by Shambhala Private Equity Knysna Mall Exhibition Area, Shop Z3 - 10, Upper Level, Knysna Mall, Stairs & Elevator next to Mugg and Bean 730pm for 8pm From R230 – R330* *R10.00 of each ticket will go towards the Globeflight Pink Loerie Mardi Gras & Arts Festival™ Knysna 2015 in association with TRIARC & MRGSA charities being Knysna Animal Welfare, Loeriehof Retirement Home (Knysna) and the Mayor’s Social Relief Fund (Knysna). Tickets available at www.quicket.co.za

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festival programme & map April 30 - May 3 2015

ZANZIBAR NIGHT CLUB

PINK CANDY CLUB IN ASSOCIATION WITH ZANZIBAR

WEDNESDAY 29 APRIL 2015 Meet & Greet 7pm featuring Dr Katz (Zanzibar) R40 entrance

Upper level – Knysna Mall – next to Standard Bank Entrance on Main Road between JET & Ackermans

PINK LOERIE FLEA MARKET

WEDNESDAY 29APRIL – SATURDAY 2 MAY 2015 Trading Hours: 10am – 5pm Upper level – Knysna Mall – next to Standard Bank Free secure undercover parking!

WEDNESDAY 30 APRIL 2015 Meet and Greet featuring DJ Freak (DBN) & J Frost (PTA) R40 entrance

THURSDAY 30 APRIL 2015 Fabulously Pink Party brought to you by TRIARC Miss Pants & Miss Pumps 2015 brought to you by TRIARC & The Shambhala Organisation 9 pm featuring J Frost (PTA) R40 entrance

THURSDAY 30 APRIL 2015 Fabulously Pink Party brought to you by TRIARC Miss Mardi Gras 2015 brought to you by TRIARC & The Shambhala Organisation 10pm featuring DJ Freak (DBN) & Dr Katz (Zanzibar) R40 entrance

FRIDAY 1 MAY 2015 - PUBLIC HOLIDAY Class of 2015 Party 8pm featuring J Frost (PTA) R50 entrance

FRIDAY 1 MAY 2015 - PUBLIC HOLIDAY S&M* Party – Sequins and Mascara Party featuring Dr Katz (Zanzibar) R40 entrance

Mr. Mardi Gras brought to you by TRIARC & The Shambhala Organisation 10pm

SATURDAY 2 MAY 2015 Globeflight HEROES After Party featuring J Frost (PTA) Doors open at 11am R40 entrance

SATURDAY 2 MAY 2015 Globeflight HEROES After Party Doors open at 11am Dr Katz (Zanzibar) R50 entrance

Pledge Square

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Knysna Mall

1. Zanzibar Night Club 2. Knysna Mall Pink Candy Club, Four Paws Wine Garden, Mitchells Brewery Beer Garden, Flea Market & Mr Gay World Grand Finale Venue 3. Knysna Tourism 4. Queen Street - Annual Street Parade Starting & Finishing Point 5. Pledge Square - Annual Street Parade Turn Around 6. Knysna Fine Arts 7. Pezula 8. Tapas and Sirocco 9. 34 South and Drydock 10. Blackwaters River Lodge

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2015-04-16 04:02:26 AM