Franschhoek Tatler - January 2017 by Siegfried Schäfer

January 2017

FRANSCHHOEK Scan the QR code to read the Tatler online

Heritage inventory

Bursary boost

V&A Ashley Williams

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Bladsy 19

Tripadvisor’s 2017 Franschhoek winners

Photo: Gillian Eva

The Garden House tops in SA

The Garden House

The Garden House does it again! For the second year running Tripadvisor ranked Annette Phillips’ Garden House as its Top B&B in South Africa and Africa - and one of its Top 25 B&Bs in the World! Annette said, “I’m absolutely amazed and delighted, but when I look at some of the exotic places in Tripadvisor’s Top B&Bs in South Africa and the World I really don’t understand it. I guess that with just two guest rooms, a few cat hairs on the settees as part of the charm and as The Garden House is also our home it may be because I’m just an old fashioned B&B.” Once again, Avondrood was one of Tripadvisor’s

Top 25 B&Bs in South Africa along with Cube Guest House and Pure Guest House in Hout Bay, Cliff Lodge, 65onCliff and Crayfish Lodge Sea & County Guest House in Gansbaai, Augusta de Mist and Bloom estate in Swellendam, Old Village Lodge in McGregor, Dorpshuys in Hermanus and Sea Mount in Camps Bay. In Tripadvisor’s Small Hotel Category, Akademie Street Guest Houses was again number one in Franschhoek and in the Top 25 both in South Africa and in the World while La Residence was one of South Africa’s Top 25 in the Luxury Category.

Second clean audit for Stellenbosch Municipality

Stellenbosch Municipality announced in early December 2016 that it had achieved another clean audit for its 2015/2016 financials. A clean audit means that the financial statements are all in order with concerns regarding on the predetermined objectives, no problems with non-compliance to key legislation or any significant deficiencies in the internal controls of the municipality. Mayor Gesie van Deventer said: “There is always room for improvement, and I promise that my team and I will uphold this standard of clean and

transparent government and improve wherever possible. I am committed to clean financial management, zero tolerance for corruption, and utilising the money of the tax payer first and foremost for improved service delivery in order to create a municipal environment that creates opportunities for all residents.” The mayor also thanked the Chief Financial Officer, Marius Wüst, and the other officials who work consistently to ensure that the municipality complies with the prescribed legislation at all times.

The modern choice

Irna van Wyk: 082 572 2740 SOMERSET WEST, STRAND, GORDON’S BAY: 021 851 0176 STELLENBOSCH, FRANSCHHOEK: 021 883 3783 E-mail: info@stellenboschblinds.co.za • Fax: 021 886 8516 www.stellenboschblinds.co.za

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Franschhoek Tatler

January 2017

Heritage inventory for the Franschhoek Valley

Large parts of the Franschhoek Valley could be declared Grade I and II Heritage Areas. In terms of the National Heritage Resources Act 1999 (NHRA), a heritage inventory for Stellenbosch Municipality is long overdue. The municipality has now commissioned Cape Winelands Professional Practices Association (CWPP) - a team of heritage experts led by Fabio Todeschini and Liana Jansen to compile this. Heritage resources – which includes Heritage Areas - are graded as Grade I, II and III for their national, provincial or local significance and placed on a Heritage Register. In terms of Heritage Western Cape (HWC) guidelines, Grade I Heritage Resources “are so exceptional because they are of outstanding significance to South Africa.”. Grade II “must have special qualities which make them significant within the context of a province or region.” Grade III applies to Heritage Resources with “sufficient intrinsic significance to be regarded as local heritage resources.” A heritage area is managed by the municipality in accordance with “… specific development guidelines …. to ensure that the heritage significance of the Heritage Area is conserved.” In November 2016 CWPP presented a Preliminary Draft Inventory of Large Scale Landscape Areas in the municipality (Phase 2a). It is available at www. stellenboschheritage.co.za. It proposes that in the Franschhoek Valley the maroon coloured area (see plan) should be a Grade I Heritage Area and the orange coloured area should be Grade II. As the official Conservation Body for the Franschhoek Valley the Franschhoek Trust & Ratepayers Association

(the Trust) was asked to comment on this draft. It suggested that the black lined area was of equal heritage significance to the proposed Grade I Heritage Area and should also be considered for Grade I status. In doing so it emphasised the heritage significance of La Cotte Farm and the landscape in which it was set. The Trust also proposed that the Municipal Spatial Development Framework 2013 be amended because it provided for Franschhoek’s urban edge to be extended to include a significant part of the black lined area – 59 ha – to be designated as a “New Development Area” to promote “mixed use, mixed income development including social and gap housing” as this might be incompatible with its status as a Grade I or Grade II Heritage Area. CWPP have submitted the Phase 2a Heritage Inventory to SAHRA and HWC for approval and will now draft Management Plans to be discussed with them and the municipality before the inclusion of the Heritage Areas in the Heritage Register becomes official. The municipality must then pass by-laws for their protection approved by SAHRA, HWC and Province within 6 months. In acknowledging the Trust’s comments Todeschini said, “Our Phase 2a work focussed on the broad brush-stroke identification of significant heritage resources in the Wilderness and Rural Domains. Phase 2b, starting in the New Year, will span the Urban Domain” and will include Grade III Heritage Resources in Franschhoek. It must be completed by July 2017. CWPP want local participation at workshops “drawing our attention to specific sites and areas that have heritage significance”.

Biomimicry to the rescue

with phase 4 (construction) finally starting in January 2016. The aim is to mimic nature in creating a living sewer, using the principle of treating water as it is transported to support the greening of Langrug with readily available nutrients and water. Briefly the system works as follows: A series of greywater disposal points have been constructed and linked via underground pipes to miniature wetlands and tree gardens – hence the absence of open sewers. These specially designed wetlands start purifying the water An informal road was paved with permeable paving as it moves down the slope from wetland to wetland and ultimately to the municipal sewer Superficially blocks S and T of the Langrug informal system. The system is maintained by the community it settlement may look much the same as the other blocks. serves and they also ensure that everybody follows the Looking a little deeper though, one soon discovers rules needed to keep the system functioning healthily that something exciting is happening here and the and correctly. differences suddenly become obvious. Plastic litter The project includes monitoring and research by that seems to be everywhere in the settlement is absent postgraduate students funded by the Department here. So are the open streams of foul wastewater. The of Science & Technology and the Water Research path between the shacks has a curb to give it a level Commission. Every aspect is being documented with surface and channel storm water to the nearest storm the aim of learning as much as possible. Lessons water drain. Perhaps most strikingly the informal road learned will determine the feasibility of implementing is paved with open grass pavers and there are large this within the whole community and possibly to indigenous trees every few metres along the road. other informal (and formal) settlements elsewhere. The reason for these differences is a project called Further phases will include solid waste collection The Genius of SPACE. This project is part of the points and encouraging entrepreneurship with Western Cape’s 110% Green Initiative and the Berg regard to waste recycling and upcycling. The use River Improvement Plan. It seeks to address two of of ecomachines (biomimicry wastewater treatment the province’s strategic priorities: water quality in the systems) for treating stormwater at source is the Berg River system and the green economy. What the next focus area of the project, which is planned for project is doing is establishing innovative biomimicry construction on a section of land adjacent to the interventions that when applied, successfully adopted Groendal Secondary School soccer field. and implemented to the Berg River area, could have The team responsible for the project includes a desirable impact on the province’s environment and BiomimicrySA, Greenhouse Systems Development, economic growth as well as improving health in all the Isidima Design & Development, Maluti GSM, people affected by the river. WaterLove Projects, CORC, John Todd Ecological The project has been through several phases Design and the Freshwater Consulting Group. involving community participation and co-planning,

GROENDAL LA MOTTE

FRANSCHHOEK

The Trust welcomes development that respects the heritage of Franschhoek and the Franschhoek Valley as an essential economic driver. The Heritage Inventory will be a vital tool to help protect Franschhoek and

the Franschhoek Valley from further inappropriate development. If you would like to be involved in this or have anything to contribute, please contact me. Barry Phillips | 083 441 8280 | barry@afrihost.co.za

How now brown owl?

On the evening of 1 December Dalena Roux was taking her usual walk around the Reservoir Street dam when her dog Jessie drew her attention to an owl, sitting on the ground behind the bench on the dam wall above the school tennis courts. It was not clear whether the bird was hurt although it seemed unable to fly and scrambled around in the scrub. Concerned that dogs could attack and harm the owl, Dalena called the Tatler. We immediately called Ina Els who regularly walks at the dam in the evenings and is used to dealing with animals. She was on her way to the scene within minutes. We then called Nick Norman who lives next to the dam. The “Nick, there’s a crisis at the dam can you go there immediately?” call alarmed him, as he knew of the fire at the Berg River Dam where a number of people had fought a brave fight the previous night. When he realised the dam in question was the one next to his house and an owl was in trouble, he grabbed a towel and joined Dalena and Ina. The frightened Spotted Eagle Owl was not easy to catch but was outsmarted by the intrepid trio,

assisted by Ben Astfalk who had come with his father Jeremy and joined the rescue party. It turned out to be a juvenile that was not injured but could not yet fly. Nick took it home in the towel and put it in a box supplied by Jeremy, where it was safe and dark. Caro Iuel, a passionate and experienced animal carer, came to have a look and suggested that the owl be taken to Spier. That is exactly what happened and the young bird was put in a big aviary with other owlets and surrogate mothers who feed them. When the Franschhoek owl can fly and is ready to be released, Nick will fetch it and bring it home where it can live a natural life in ‘wild’ surroundings. Nick has asked residents who come across an owl, or any other helpless, vulnerable bird around the dam, to call him immediately on his cell phone (083 287 5756) to see whether the bird can be successfully rescued. Kudos to the Franschhoekers who went out of their way to rescue one of our beloved Spotted Eagle Owls and give it the best possible chance of a good life.

The modern choice

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January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Lavender Guest Farm: Public Protector acts

As reported in the last issue of the Tatler, Anne Stone of Auberge La Dauphine made a complaint to the Public Protector of maladministration by Stellenbosch Municipality because it had failed to stop the illegal use of illegally built guest cottages at Lavender Guest Farm since the Supreme Court of Appeal set aside unlawfully given municipal approvals for them in May 2014. The amount of the contravention levy to be paid by Brashville (Pty) Ltd, the owner of Lavender Guest Farm, for the illegal building of the cottages was on the agenda for the meeting of Stellenbosch Council on 23 November (posted on the municipal website the previous day). In its report to Council the Planning Directorate recommended that Brashville pay a contravention levy of R250 000 in four instalments. The report listed factors to be considered in assessing the amount but did not say how it evaluated these or give any reasons for its recommendation. Although it referred to a letter from Brashville’s attorneys saying the contravention levy should be R100 because the cottages were deemed “desirable” by the Planning Directorate, the report did not mention letters from

Dis brandseisoen!

Werksmans, Stone’s attorneys, and the Franschhoek Trust & Ratepayers Association arguing that it should be substantial and a deterrent to the illegal building and use of property as recommended in Provincial and City of Cape Town guidelines. On being informed that Lavender Guest Farm was on the agenda for this Council Meeting the Public Protector immediately contacted the Municipal Manager and as a result it was “withdrawn for further consideration”. The Public Protector also sent a list of questions to the municipality to which it had to give its replies by 21 December 2016. At the time of going to press it was not known whether the municipality has done so. Stone said that by not giving reasons for recommending a contravention levy of R250 000 and ignoring the arguments in the letters from Werksmans and the Trust, the Planning Directorate’s report to Council was not fair and balanced. When asked for comment for this article Dupré Lombaard, Municipal Director of Planning, declined the opportunity. Barry Phillips

Die burgemeester van die Stellenbosch Munisipaliteit het inwoners gemaan om gedurende die warm somer bedag te wees op die gevaar van brande. Verwoestende brande in die Stellenbosch gebied het jaarliks ‘n ernstige uitwerking op beide inwoners en die omgewing. Brandweerdienste binne ons munisipale area bestaan uit dienste wat deur die Kaapse Wynland Distriksmunisipaliteit (KWDM) beheer word en dienste wat deur die Stellenbosch Munisipaliteit verskaf word. Die brandweerdienste van die Distrik konsentreer op gespesialiseerde dienste soos veld- en bergbrande asook chemiese brande. Hulle verantwoordelikheid sluit die standaardisering van infrastruktuur, voertuie, toerusting en prosedures wat gebruik word, asook die opleiding van die brandweermanne, in. Stellenbosch Munisipaliteit se brandweerdienste is verantwoordelik vir die blus en beheer van strukturele brande, reddingsdienste en die nakom van brandveiligheidsregulasies in geboue. Hulle doel is dus om mense, eiendom en diere te beskerm, asook optrede in moontlike nood situasies. Die Munisipaliteit bied ook ondersteuningsdienste aan die KWDM en ander Munisipaliteite binne sy Distrik en die stad Kaapstad. Wat personeel betref, het die Stellenbosch Munisipaliteit

16 brandbestryders wat daagliks aan diens is en 5 brandbestryders wat altyd op gereedheidsbystand is. Die munisipaliteit beskik oor 3 groot brandweerpompwaens, 2 medium pompwaens, ‘n watertenker en ‘n land cruiser. Lugondersteuning deur helikopters word slegs geaktiveer op instruksie van die Distriksmunisipaliteit in gebiede wat nie vir voertuie toeganklik is nie. Inwoners en besoekers word gemaan om bedag te wees op gevare wat ‘n brand kan veroorsaak. Geen oop vure word binne die munisipale grense toegelaat nie. Braaivleisvure in piekniek areas is slegs toelaatbaar in toegewysde plekke. Geen beheerde brande word toegelaat gedurende die brandseisoen nie. Alle rommel en brandbare materiaal rondom huise behoort verwyder te word. Vuurhoutjies, kerse en lampe moet weggehou word van kinders. Braaivleisvure op winderige dae moet liefs vermy word en sigaretstompies moet doodgemaak en in ‘n drom gegooi word. Indien ‘n persoon in ‘n situasie deur rook omring word, moet die neus en mond met ‘n nat lap bedek word terwyl die persoon so na aan die grond as moontlik bly. Iemand wat ‘n brand sien moet dit aanmeld by die Stellenbosch Brandweer by 021 808 8888 of by die KWDM-brandweerdienste by 021 887 4446. Die kontakpersoon vir skenkings aan die brandweer is die Kapelaan, Mnr Solomon, by 082 686 3205.

FOUNDED

ANNO

16 9 4

The true marriage of food and wine

E reservations@cabriere.co.za | T +27 21 876 8500 | Franschhoek Pass Road (R45)

WWW.CABRIERE.CO.ZA

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Enjoy Responsibly.

GP16.05

1878 Tatler Lifestyle Advert 2017.indd 1

2016/10/19 12:34 PM

SAVE THE DATE GRANDE PROVENCE HARVEST FESTIVAL SATURDAY, 25 FEBRUARY 2017 Come and join in the laughter and fun as we celebrate the 2017 grape harvest with a day of picking, stomping, tasting wines and enjoying delicious food. Price: R695.00 per person for adults R350.00 for children under 12 years

Price includes: • Morning coffee with fresh farm-baked muffins • A tractor ride into the vineyards to pick grapes • A wine tasting and cellar tour hosted by the cellarmaster • Traditional harvest day grape stomping • Live entertainment • A lavish buffet lunch prepared by our Executive Chef • A few other surprises Booking is essential. Contact Lizelle at T 021-876 8600 or E reservations@grandeprovence.co.za

For reservations please contact T 021 876 8600 or E reservations@grandeprovence.co.za For accommodation in The Owner’s Cottage & La Provençale Villa T 021 876 8600 or email ownerscottage@grandeprovence.co.za Main Road Franschhoek Western Cape South Africa www.grandeprovence.co.za

Franschhoek Tatler

January 2017

Leopard’s Leap

Leopard’s Leap Rotisserie

Chardonnay Pinot Noir 2016

Duck breast with Chardonnay Pinot Noir Plums and Parsnip Puree

Prominent aromas, on the nose, of red fruit, raspberry and frangipane balanced by soft yellow fruit such as apple and warm citrus. The emphasis of this wine is on mouthfeel. Well balanced, with an excellent structure, framed by an elegant finish and textured after-taste. This wine is a versatile companion to chicken, duck, fish, Mediterranean cuisine and soft cheeses such as brie, camembert and mozzarella. Cellar Price: R44 per bottle

Ingredients (Serves 4) 4 duck breasts (Magret duck if possible); 4 large parsnips; 2 tablespoons butter; 100 ml water; Salt; ½ cup cream; 3 plums, stoned and quartered; ¾ cup Leopard’s Leap Chardonnay Pinot Noir; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley; Crisp onions for garnish (optional); Pea shoots for garnish; Salt and pepper

Slowly render out fat without scorching the skin until golden brown and caramelised. Flip over, increase heat and cook for a few minutes. Remove from pan rest before slicing thinly. The breasts are best served pink (medium). Heat a pan over high heat. Sauté quartered plums in 1 tablespoon butter and add the Chardonnay Pinot Noir. Reduced by two thirds. Remove from heat, add butter and parsley. Place warm parsnip puree on the plate, followed by the duck breasts and then place the glazed plums on top of the breasts. Drizzle some of the remaining sauce over as well.

Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards 021 876 8002 info@leopardsleap.co.za

Method Start by making the parsnip puree: Peel, quarter and core parsnips. Cut chunks and place in pot. Add 1 tablespoon butter, water and salt. Cover pot with lid and cook until soft and most of the water has evaporated. Add cream, boil and then blend to a smooth puree. Heat a pan over low heat. Score duck breasts. Season well and place fat side down into pan.

Akkerdal Wine Estate

French Connection

Sauvignon Blanc 2015

Black Mussels with white wine, cream and garlic

A crisp wine with a hint of citrus, fig and green pepper and tropical flavours on the palate. Cellar Price: R60 per bottle

Akkerdal Wine Estate 021 876 3481 wine@akkerdal.co.za

Ingredients 1kg Fresh mussels 100ml Fish stock 20g Onions, chopped finely 10g Garlic chopped finely 80ml White wine 100ml Cream Seasoning Chopped parsley to garnish Method Fry off onions and garlic. Once onions are soft add white wine and cream and reduce to about half. Then add fish stock, seasoning and mussels. Stir mussels occasionally so that mussels can open and se sauce does not split. Once mussels are open they are ready.

Leopard’s Leap Rotisserie 021 876 8002 info@leopardsleap.co.za

Any mussels that fail to open must be thrown away. Cooking time ±15min.

French Connection 021 876 4056 info@frenchconnection.co.za

How to enter

Send your answer to: tatlercompetition@gmail.com. The winner will be informed by return mail before 15 January 2017 Prizes have to be collected from the Franschhoek Info Office before end January 2017 or be forfeited.

Which Franschhoek guest house is tops in South Africa?

MONNEAUX RESTAURANT Tel: +27 (0)21 876 3386 email: info@fch.co.za www.monneaux.co.za

S A LE

Shop No 3, Franschhoek Square, 36 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek t: 021 876 3426 e: info@sofa-studio.co.za www.sofa-studio.co.za

☎

January 2017

On and Off Course Lawrence Gould

Welcome Distractions

The month of November and early December garnered several distractions. Apart from my passion for the game of golf, I love good food and as a former international hotelier I cherish good hotels. So allow me to explain why I missed much of the Alfred Dunhill Championship held at Leopard Creek in early December. I can, however, congratulate South Africa’s new golfing star, 23-year-old Brandon Stone, who followed his SA Open win earlier this year with a win at this event. But back to the distractions: we went to see PJ Powers at the Mountain View venue at Franschhoek Cellars. The venue provided a warm cosy and welcoming atmosphere and the remarkable voice of the songstress was complemented with her sharing her life story to date and promoting her book ‘Here I Am’. All I can add is that we were glad ‘We were there!’ Peggy and I were invited to join Mont Rochelle’s new General Manager James Basson and his wife Dee for

Franschhoek Tatler

dinner at Miko, their fine dining restaurant. I know James’ brother Garnett who once was the GM of the Grande Roche Hotel in Paarl. James spent eight and half years at the famous Bushman’s Kloof, four of these as the General Manager while Dee was in charge of the property’s spa. We enjoyed a delightful meal. I enjoyed the delicious Pork Ribs and Peggy salivated over her PJ Powers on stage at Mountain View Kingklip’s presentation I could conclude with the pleasure we enjoyed at and taste. The overriding memory, however, is of Le Lude MCC Estate’s restaurant, Orangerie, where James’ passion for his new challenge. He has been Chef Nicolene Barrow, who worked at the worldat Mont Rochelle 3 months and listening to his famous Le Gavroche Restaurant in London, provides vision of how he sees the future, (to reach five-star memorable classical French cuisine with her personal standards in all aspects of the property) – I cannot contemporary twists. fault his ambition, nor his plans to achieve this and But I think you can understand my distractions – with the obvious support from his dynamic wife and I haven’t even mentioned the sensational Caesar’s (who is currently prioritising looking after two young salad at Rendezvous, the restaurant at Glenwood. children) – I can see that Mr Branson has chosen well Special note: We do eat at home also! for the future of his estate and hotel.

James and Dee Basson

Evolution: A Long Way To Go A Solo Exhibition by Alexandra Spyratos 26th November to 19th December 2016

38 Huguenot Str, Franschhoek, Cape Winelands Tel: 021 876 4280 | art@artintheyard.co.za www.artintheyard.co.za

FRAN SCHHOEK

Two Eléphants of Franschhoek

The Franschhoek Feeling

Franschhoek Tatler

Cellar Chat

Mark Tanner Australia was bigger than I first thought. Nearly three times the size of South Africa and covering as many time zones, it shares many geographical characteristics with us. Most notable are the large central arid areas and the mountain ranges providing rainfall for the fertile East and South. And that is where their wines are produced. With the exception, of course, of Western Australia, along the Swan River Valley and the Margaret River, and along the Murray River in South Australia. It was my privilege in 2008 to spend some time in the Hunter and Upper Hunter Valleys in New South Wales. I visited iconic vineyards such as Tyrrels (now over 120 years old ), Rothbury, Pokolbin and Lindemans among others. What the Aussies lack in the form of mountain scenery they make up for with kangaroos lounging near the cellar doors. Their wines are presented with a twinkle in the eye. Just as well, because I then travelled to South Australia and the Adelaide regions, where, at Longhorn Creek, I came across Bleasdale Winery and a double twinkle. The cellar was surrounded by dozens of tall eucalyptus trees, maybe hundreds it seemed. Their wine pumps, casks and vats, as well as an 1892 vintage lever-twin press were all made of eucalyptus tree wood and

some furniture as well. Imagine wine matured in a barrel made from a gum tree. The words 'different' and 'interesting' may be interpreted in different ways. Suffice to say that while the wine was drinkable, I managed to suppress the urge to purchase. Any visitor to Adelaide should go to the National Wine Centre of Australia. We have nothing like it here. The central exhibit is a life-sized model of a grapevine, both above and below the ground, covering some five metres in length and about two deep. This educational building offers a journey through the various stages of wine making, from growing grapes, making wine, to tasting and learning to appreciate wines. There are conference and function rooms and a restaurant. Being located next to the stunning Adelaide Botanical Gardens is a bonus. We have an interesting connection with the Barossa Valley just north of Adelaide. While we enjoy our French viticultural origins, Barossa was first planted in 1847 and is Australia's most famous area for quality wines. Recently a 'memorandum of understanding' was signed by Barossa Tourism and Franschhoek Wine Valley to promote awareness and potential tourism between the two. Comparisons may be odorous and I have heard people say that Australian wines can be harsh and too heavy to be really enjoyable. I disagree. I found many similarities with our own wines and, let's face it, if one does feel that Oz wines are too bold, then nip over to New Zealand where the 'land of the long white cloud' has an abundance of lighter wines to soothe the palate. Either way, 'Fair dinkum... no worries mate'.

Summer in a glass

GlenWood Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2016 Hot on the heels of its recent success at the launch of the 2017 Platter Wine Guide, GlenWood Vineyards has released another guaranteed winner. The GlenWood Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2016 is sure to feature in the wine talk of the town this summer. The grapes were sourced from one of the farm’s awardwinning vineyards estimated to be 22 years old. Comprising equal quantities of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, winemaker DP Burger describes this as being a typical Bordeaux white wine. Richly textured, well-balanced and

refreshing the Sauvignon Blanc delivers elegant passionfruit freshness, which is laced together by the richness and weight of the Semillon. A wine union made a heaven! The wine is ideal to enjoy chilled on its own or with a succulent roast chicken or sweet curry dishes. It’s also a perfect partner to a delicious stir-fried seafood dish with crayfish, spicy prawns and scallops. It is available directly from the farm at R90 per bottle, or select outlets nationwide. www.glenwoodvineyards.co.za | 021 876 2044

January 2017

2016 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards winners

Alisha Erasmus, Lee-Ann Fouche-Wessels, Nick Oosthuizen and Chris Erasmus of Foliage Restaurant

South Africa’s best culinary talents were honoured at the 2016 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards on Sunday, 20 November. Franschhoek restaurants didn’t win any of the big prizes, but were well represented with three claiming places among the top 10. They are: The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français (4th), The Kitchen at Maison (8th) and Foliage (9th). For an unprecedented fifth consecutive year, The Test Kitchen was named Restaurant of the Year. Gregory Czarnecki of The Restaurant at Waterkloof won the coveted title of Eat Out S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Chef of the Year. La Colombe was recognised for maintaining the highest level of service with the Eat Out Nespresso Service Excellence Award and the first-ever Eat Out John Psillos Award for Outstanding Contribution to Service, which was awarded to front-of-house manager Jennifer Hugé. The much-admired chef, restauranteur and author Peter Veldsman was the winner of the Eat Out Lannice Snyman Lifetime Achievement Award. The Eat Out Nederburg Rising Star Award went to Angelo Scirocco of Urbanologi in Johannesburg for his promising talent, and the Eat Out Wine Service Award for a top sommelier was won by Tinashe Nyamudoka of The Test Kitchen. In another industry first, The Table at De Meye in Stellenbosch was the recipient of the inaugural Eat Out Woolworths Sustainability Award, which recognises a restaurant that is making strides towards sustainability by implementing environmentally and

24 dirkie uys street · tel 021 876 4304

www.davidwalters.co.za

HANDMADE IN FRANSCHHOEK designer craftsman · ceramic studio · gallery

R E S T A U R A N T AT L E L U D E C A P C L A S S I Q U E C E L L A R · L I LY P O N D V I L L A

Please make your reservation at Orangerie Restaurant for Lunch, High Tea or join us for a delicious slice of one of our specialty cakes. The Tasting Room is open for Cap Classique tastings, sales and canapés. TASTINGS · LUNCH · HIGH TEA Mon-Sun 10:00-17:00 Restaurant Reservations 021 100 3464 · Lambrechts Road Franschhoek info@lelude.co.za · www.lelude.co.za

The Kitchen at Maison’s Arno Janse van Rensburg

socially responsible practices and being cognisant of the importance of higher animal welfare. Foxcroft, the new restaurant opened by chefs Scot Kirton and Glen Williams of La Colombe, was named the Eat Out Retail Capital New Restaurant of the Year. Marble in Rosebank, Johannesburg, received the Eat Out Boschendal Style Award for its show-stopping interior design and décor. The winner of the Woolworths TASTE Eat Out Bursary was Ayanda Matomela, who was selected for his passion and enthusiasm. www.eatout.co.za

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Let’s talk about the (Black) Elephant in the room… New food and wine collaboration Born out of synchronicity, fortuitous friendships and a love of wine, Black Elephant Vintners has extended that passion into partnering its wine collection with a crafted menu dégustation. The result is a food and wine collaboration with Ryan’s Kitchen, situated at 1 Place Vendôme in the Main Road. Available Monday to Saturday at lunchtime (12h00 and 15h30), patrons have the option of a four- or seven-course taster menu, created exclusively by Chef Ryan Smith. The wine and food collaboration is hosted in the Tasting Studio situated within Ryan’s Kitchen. Each wine and food combination has been masterfully selected and paired by owners of Black Elephant Vintners, Kevin Swart and Jacques Wentzel, together with Chef Ryan. The menu dégustation displays the chef ’s ability to seamlessly create taste and flavour sensations. The 4 course menu dégustation (R235) consists of: • Fox and Flamingo Rosé served with fish sashimi, radishes and a seaweed stock • Two Dogs, a Peacock and a Horse served with a green pea, gooseberry miso gel

• Timothy White served with souse vide buttery baby potatoes and snoek and fresh chives • Nicholas Red served with parmesan cheese croquets and smoked eggplant The 7 course menu degustation (R330) consists of: • Black Elephant Vintners MCC served with an octopus apple ceviche • Fox and Flamingo Rosé served with fish sashimi, radishes and a seaweed stock • Two Dogs, a Peacock served and a Horse served with a green pea, gooseberry miso gel • Timothy White served with souse vide buttery baby potatoes and snoek and fresh chives • Nicholas Red served with parmesan cheese croquets and smoked eggplant • Amistad Pinotage served with pan fried line fish, mole and coriander • Amistad Syrah served with braised lamb rib, peanuts and spices Black Elephant Vintners focuses on identifying and procuring estate-grown grapes cultivated within the

Franschhoek Valley and its surrounding regions from which it produces and crafts quality wines. “We’ve chosen to take the pomp and ceremony out of winemaking; focusing on demystifying the process for all enthusiasts and injecting true enjoyment into every sip of wine,” says Swart. “Our wines represent our sincerest endeavours to bring the Franschhoek experience to all wine lovers around the globe for the sole purpose of enjoyment and as an expression of our appreciation for our good life.” Their diverse brand portfolio enables BE Vintners to provide a range of wines with unique physical characteristics that appeal to different desires, tastes and occasions. They even offer wine and music pairings aptly named Wine Unplugged at their cellar. For patrons who only want wine tasters, the Tasting Studio will be open Monday to Saturday from 11h00 to 16h30. Four wine tasters cost R75 and seven R125. (R235 and R330 if served with the menu degustation.) Bookings for the Black Elephant Vintners Tasting Studio are essential. ryans@bevintners.co.za

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Franschhoek Tatler

January 2017

Marigold: Indian delight

Above: Marigold chef Vanie Padayachee Below: Marigold cuisine

Marigold, Franschhoek’s first authentic Indian cuisine restaurant, opened its doors on 8 December 2016. The opening coincided with the launch of Heritage Square, a proud new addition to the Leeu Collection portfolio. The brand new restaurant offers a feast of exotic flavours that will delight any gourmand. Marigold’s small-plates menu is inspired by the aromatic and spicy North Indian cuisine. Look forward to rich, fragrant curries and flavourful biryanis with succulent meat dishes that are cooked in a charcoal tandoor. Seasoned chef Vanie Padayachee hails from Durban and was most recently a part of the Le Quartier Français culinary team. She has been integral in the opening of various restaurants as well as a cooking school in South Africa. “My style of cooking is influenced by the rich diversity of South African culture and I have experience at tempering and blending spices,” says Vanie. “My recent visits to India to experience the culture and cuisine first-hand has broadened my knowledge-base and brings an authenticity and tangible reference of its origins to Marigold’s menu.” To begin your meal consider a selection of Indian savoury appetisers before enjoying one of the restaurant’s signature main dishes. The layered rice Biryanis offer a delicious and complex level of flavour, while the curries offer something for everyone – delicious vegetarian options, tender chicken and slow-cooked lamb. Enjoy succulent prawns, line fish, chicken or beef kebabs cooked to perfection in the charcoal tandoor. Each dish is accompanied by a variety of traditional Indian bread, rice, salad and raita. The interior, with its exposed brickwork, timber flooring, bold geometric wallpaper and African inspired fabrics offers banquette-style seating for 60 guests. Slatted dividers offer privacy, yet maintain the feel of a magnificent feast. The restaurant also has seating outside in the Heritage Sqaure courtyard for a further 20 guests. Leeu Collections’ iconic signature statue of a lion by acclaimed sculptor Jop Kunneke is the focal point of the courtyard. The lion is a reference to Leeu Collection’s founder, Analjit Singh, as “Singh” means lion in Sanskrit (“leeu” in Afrikaans). Marigold, located on Heritage Square, 9 Huguenot Street, will be open seven days a week for lunch from 12h00 to 15h00 and dinner will be served between 18h00 and 22h00 (although times might change during the quieter season).

Join us at Ryan’s kitchen for daily food & wine collaborations.

RYANS@BEVINTNERS.CO.ZA 1 Place Vendome, Huguenot Rd, Franschhoek 021 876 4598 (Lana)

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Leeu Collection’s Oliver Cattermole gets fresh

Executive Chef at Leeu Collection, Oliver Cattermole, delights in the freshness of summer food. He says lightness in the hot months is the way to go. He leans towards skipping chocolate desserts and opting for fresh coconut, sorbets and citrus tarts in the sweets department. Oliver started cooking in his teens, mainly to improve the fare on the family menu. His choice of reading material became cook books and he was on his first steps to becoming a celebrated chef. He is in charge of a number of kitchens at Leeu Collection and says he loves the creative freedom he enjoys in his position as executive chef. The fresh vegetables and herbs from the estate gardens are a dream as are the fresh figs they pick to combine with honey, macadamia granola and goat’s cheese. Other favourite summer fruits are watermelon fermented with vodka and fresh melon sprinkled with salt. Travels and jobs in Asia and Europe equipped Oliver with tastes and recipes fit for a king. One

Butternut salad

Chef Oliver Cattermole

of his favourite summer ideas is to use rice paper and skip traditional dough wraps. In his kitchens the chefs are parcelling it, rolling vegetables in it, frying it and making crisp crackers. He is also electing to use seeds and nuts instead of croutons; in fact he suggests seeds and nuts, roasted and lightly spiced, as a good snack option. Ask about salmon and he readily explains a beautiful recipe that entails immersing salmon in a white wine, vermouth and curry powder marinade that has simmered at 60 degrees and cooled. (He’s big on ceviche!) “Serve with lots of fresh stuff,” he says. Chef Oliver volunteers his rule on recipes, “Recipes are your tongue and your fingers – if it looks right and it tastes right, it usually is right.” His rule for summer food? Eat produce at its peak. Good advice that should be easy to follow in the Franschhoek Valley.

Kitchens, Furniture & Cabinetry for Residential and Commercial Properties New design studio and furniture showroom at Art In The Yard, 38 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek. 021 876 4280 or 062 9511 390 robert@baerdesign.co.za

Franschhoek Tatler

January 2017

Explore Boschendal – with Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth

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The Friesian mares, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, ready for another one hour trip around Boschendal estate. They usually carry between six and 12 people.

Boschendal offers all that you’d expect of a wine estate – restaurants, wine tasting, picnics – and then some! Also on offer are half and whole day spa treatments, walking and mountain bike excursions (on 30 km of new trails), fly fishing – and horse riding. It can be stated quite categorically here that if ever there was an enthusiastic team it is that which now runs the equestrian activities. The equestrian team is headed by Hans Mbalula and his brother Petrus. Hans was formerly a barman at Boschendal’s deli/Werf restaurant/picnics), but on hearing Boschendal’s CEO discussing the pros and cons of riding and related activities on the estate he immediately volunteered to give up bartending and to run this new initiative. It transpired that he had, in fact, been raised on a Free State farm and as a boy had ridden regularly before and after school to carry out a variety of farm duties such as cattle and sheep herding. He had, too, it was discovered, learned early on how to win the confidence and calm down a wild horse so that within a few days (often in fact within one day) he could saddle and ride it without any of the bronco busting histrionics of the Wild West’s cowboys. He had also learned how to put horses into harness to pull a cart or a plough, again using a minimum of force and a maximum of coaxing. Boschendal now has 13 horses, including a few Shetland ponies, the majority of which are massive Shire horses, Friesians, Clydesdales and Percherons, all of them giants of the horsey world – they grow to 16 hands or more. Being immensely strong, they are capable of carrying a 100 kg or 110 kg rider in armchair comfort. Surprisingly, however, they are also quite exceptionally gentle so that, despite their size, they can be and sometimes are ridden by quite small children.

A few lucky riders are offered the opportunity to mount these massive horses, but most of Boschendal’s outrides are done with well-trained smaller horses. Today the Boschendal horses can be hired for outrides and these usually take the visitor into unspoilt conservation fynbos territory where waterbuck and eland have been introduced by Boschendal’s owners. For those prepared to rise early Boschendal offers a breakfast ride in its extensive conservation territory with delicious eggs, bacon and mushrooms cooked over an open fire. The rides can last up to three hours and afford the visitor a total escape from the overcrowded mechanised world. Shire horses are, however, at their most impressive when they are acting as draught animals. Their huge size make it possible for them easily to pull carts, the weight of which would bring lesser horses, even fully trained hackneys, to their knees. At Boschendal the management now offers visitors one-hour cart rides almost daily. The carriage can take a small number of adults and a larger number of children. Passengers sit on a beautifully restored 19th-century landau and this gives them a tranquil lovely way to see the estate and to watch these big horses working so willingly. The foremost carriage pair are black Friesian mares. They are sisters and are named Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth. Their names are appropriate because they exude a patrician, almost regal ambience, as if aware that they are several cuts above today’s typical livery stable animals. Booking is essential for a carriage ride, but, as Samantha Lundie, wife of the CEO of Boschendal who is closely involved with this operation, has said, “An overnight visit to Boschendal these days is incomplete without a carriage ride – it somehow epitomises all that the estate stands for.” horses@boschendal.co.za | 021 870 4211

Somer in ‘n glas

La Petite Ferme het ‘n nuwe lys skemerkelkies vir die somer ontwerp. Dis spesiaal vir hulle Feestelike Vrydae op 6 en 13 Januarie. Die mengeldrankies word van 16h00 tot 18h00 saam met deli-styl smulhappies in die tuin bedien. So lyk die beskrywing van die drankies: Die Pretty Lisa is geïnspireer deur ’n La Petite Ferme legende, wat al drie dekades ’n gunsteling is. Dit word met vodka gemaak en kry onder meer ook aarbeie, lemmetjiesap, lemonade en vars basiliekruid. Die Mariano is La Petite Ferme se eie eksotiese skemerkelkie, met Latynse pizzazz. Dis ’n wodkavonkelende bessie-blits met mango en lemmetjiesap en vars ment. Die Spa is vernoem na die hoof bestanddeel vars komkommer. Dis ‘n jenewer basis en bevat ook lemmetjiesap, vars ment en vir balans is daar ’n

klein leksel suiker. Die Garden breek die gietvorm. Buiten die pomelo- en lemmetjiesap en gemengde pepers, het die drankie ook vars koljander in - vars gepluk in die plaas se nuwe kruietuin. Daar is ‘n keuse van wodka of jenewer. www.lapetiteferme.co.za | 021 876 3016

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January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Unwind with a picnic under the oaks at Grande Provence

DO YOU WANT TO BE IN BETTER SHAPE THIS YEAR? I'll show you how to make smart choices about: Starting your day powerfully with a healthy breakfast Scheduled snacking and balanced meals Proper hydration and recovery for optimal performance Maintaining high energy levels throughout the day

Relax under majestic oaks with a rustic summer picnic in true French style at Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate. Prepared by Executive Chef Darren Badenhorst, the Grande Provence summer picnic basket is filled to the brim with delightful baguettes, artisanal brie, locally-cured sauçisson, homemade preserves and butter, artisanal

rosemary and sea salt crisps with whole grain mustard aioli, a crisp garden salad and a decadent chocolate brownie.

All this is rounded off with a bottle of Angel’s Tears wine and your choice of still or sparkling water.

If you want to take your picnic experience up a notch, choose from a selection of rabbit-liver parfait, seasonal fruit, wild mushroom quiche, gourmet salads and macaroons. These extra luxuries are priced individually and can be added to your basket upon request. The Grande Provence picnic menu is available at R275 per person sharing, or R325 for a single basket. To book, call The Restaurant at Grande Provence a day in advance. restaurant@grandeprovence.co.za | 021 876 8600

Rooibos protects against effects of UVB exposure

From a soothing beverage to beauty elixir, Rooibos tea is one versatile brew. Now researchers have discovered that it can also undo some of the damage caused by the sun’s harmful rays. For the past 11 years, scientists from the SA Medical Research Council (MRC) and Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) have been involved in studying how Rooibos protects against inflammation in skin cells, since chronic inflammation is one of the hallmarks of skin cancer development. Prof Wentzel Gelderblom, based at CPUT’s Institute of Biomedical and Microbial Biotechnology has been one of the lead researchers involved in the Rooibos study. He says once the skin has been exposed to the sun’s ultra-violet (UV) rays, Rooibos extracts have the ability to remove precancerous damaged cells and also block the onset of inflammation. “It does so by stopping the multiplication of cancerous cells and removing these cells through programmed cell death, in other words, prompting them to commit suicide,” he explains. It’s the abundance of polyphenols (antioxidants) – natural compounds found in Rooibos – which gives it its restorative power. These compounds are linked with the prevention of various chronic disorders, including skin cancer. Can consumers expect a miracle Rooibos ointment or cream in the near future? Prof Gelderblom says there are still a number of tests that need to be done before an after-sun skincare product is brought to market. “We are currently developing biomarkers, representing critical biological processes of how Rooibos tea protects against skin cancer. These will then be validated in mouse skin before commencing trials in humans. These biomarkers involve sophisticated molecular techniques that will help us to assess Rooibos’ protective effects in very small skin biopsies, which will eventually be utilised to conduct our mouse and clinical trials in humans. Doing so will also help us to more precisely determine the quantity of Rooibos extract needed to prevent the development of skin cancer.

“Preliminary findings show that Rooibos extracts are more effective during the early stages of skin cancer development as they are able to facilitate the removal of UVB damaged cells thereby delaying their progression into a tumour.” South Africa has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world with about 20 000 reported cases every year, which results in more than 700 deaths. He points out that people who do spend a lot of time in the sun should consider using an after-sun skincare product containing Rooibos extract, as based on the findings of the current studies, it could be beneficial. However, care should be exercised, as these products should be validated first before any health claims can be made. About 80% of sun-induced skin damage occurs before the age of 18, therefore it is imperative to take special care of children in the sun. Babies younger than one year of age should never be exposed to direct sunlight as their skin doesn’t produce enough melanin (the skin pigment that helps to protect the skin from the sun). Here’s how you and your family can enjoy the sun this summer without falling into the pitfalls of excessive sun exposure: • Avoid the sun between 11h00 and 15h00 when the sun is at its hottest • Put on a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 or more, and remember to apply it regularly especially when swimming • Wear a wide-brimmed hat to cover the face, neck and ears • Use available shade under trees, umbrellas, tents etc. • Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes Equally important during hot summer days is getting enough of the right kinds of liquids since dehydration can lead to tiredness, headaches and dizziness. Although many people tend to think of Rooibos as only a hot drink, it is an exceptional flavour enhancer and naturally sweet, which makes it a favourite ingredient for iced teas, fruit shakes, smoothies and iced lollies. www.sarooibos.co.za

Lauren Stewart Independent Herbalife Member 083 583 9646 lauren@lwg.co.za www.the5daychallenge.com

GET INTO THE BEST SHAPE OF YOUR LIFE. FOR LIFE

Franschhoek Tatler

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Tatler Motoring Michele Lupini

Drivers Car of the Year 2017

Every year Franschhoek’s Tatler motoring team puts together Drivers Car of the Year and as ever, we assembled eight of the most exciting new car arrivals of the past year to figure out which was best. Just being here is an honour, so kudos to each of the top eight, but there can only be one winner and cut, we must cut. Alphabetically the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider was the first to go – a brilliant purist car, it’s still a great toy. The Ford Focus RS disappointed – its bite never quite matched its pre-launch bark, while two of its three rivals are far better value propositions. The Honda Civic Type R was true to its promises, but it’s too much of a wolf in wolf ’s clothing, which may not suit every taste. The Maserati Ghibli is an awesome car – like a sprinter in a suede suit; its exclusivity however comes at too much of a premium. The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is another to suffer a stiff premium – not that price will affect its buyers, but then that’s just them.

Which brings us to the podium where we find a draw for second. The Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport was the most compelling hatchback – it’s a hugely compelling package that matches whatever its rivals can do at a price to make you smile from ear to ear. Like the Golf, the BMW M2 is a peach of a package; the epitome of BMW M right now, it’s also sublimely well balanced, delivers all those M expectations and even represents a pretty decent bargain too. Bravo M! Both the BMW and the Volkswagen were however pretty much what we’d expected from an M2 or a GTI. But the Audi R8 V10 Plus was so much better than what we anticipated – not only is it a monster step forward over its V10 forebear, but it also shapes up against ‘real’ supercar rivals like never before. R8 also broke all our road test result records – which include the best from Ferrari, McLaren and Lamborghini, et al. But the real clincher is that at R3-million, the R8 costs pretty much half the price of any of those Ferraris and Lambos. So there you have it – the Audi R8 V10 plus 5.2 FSI quattro S tronic is our 2017 Drivers Car of the Year.

Catch the full Drivers car of the year story and show on www.roadtested.net, facebook.com/groups/dcoty/ or in Bakkie & Car magazine in village bookstores.

The Audi R8 V10 plus 5.2 FSI quattro S tronic beat the other title contenders

Vehicle recalls – why so many unsafe vehicles remain on our roads

The number of vehicle recalls over the last decade has increased significantly. Unfortunately the number of vehicle owners bringing in their vehicles for the necessary repairs is nowhere near where it should be for the number of recalls, says Vishal Premlall, Director of Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA). “This means that there are potentially millions of dangerous vehicles on our roads.” Over the last few years several leading car brands have announced local or global recalls for safety critical aspects such as airbags, brakes, steering wheels, emissions and more. So why the shortfall on vehicle recall repairs? Premlall says this can be attributed to several reasons some of which include dealerships not being able to track down drivers; parts in short supply; repairs restricted to dealers only and so on. “As it stands, customers out of warranty that don’t go back to dealerships, have no idea when a product recall takes place,” says Premlall. He points out however that the aftermarket workshop industry deals with many of these out of warranty vehicles and would therefore could assist with reaching as many affected cars as possible. “The reality of the situation is that the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) do not make recall information available to the aftermarket workshops. The fact that customers don’t go back to franchised dealers after warranty does not mean that the responsibility for the product recall is rendered ineffective,” he adds. The Right to Repair Campaign is advocating that this information as well as the information needed to repair the vehicle is made available. “Aftermarket workshops have the capabilities to service as wide a customer network as possible to ensure that affected cars are rectified to the exacting standard as envisaged in the product recall.” Referring to defective components and replacement parts, Premlall points out that a product recall is often triggered as a result of a defective component fitted by the OEM, often relating to poor procurement. “This means that a new component provider will need to be sourced which puts customers at a disadvantage as they have to wait for the part to be provided to the franchise dealer before it can be fitted. This

Vishal Premlall, Director of Motor Industry Workshop Association

wait is often a deterrent and a reason why many drivers just don’t get the problem fixed. Once again this decision compromises the safety of the vehicle and other drivers on our roads. It appears that in many of the recall cases in South Africa and globally cost of parts has won in the quality versus cost debate.” “Consumers need to realise that parts issues are not isolated to used cars. There is also no truth in the generalisation that the aftermarket uses substandard parts. Recalls show that even new cars can be fitted with defective components.” Premlall strongly believes that the answer to safer roads and more effective recalls lies in opening up the access to information to the aftermarket. “We all want safer roads. Making all vehicles roadworthy needs to be the goal of all industry players. This can only be achieved if all players are given a fair and equal chance to service vehicles,” he concludes.

Franschhoek Tatler

SPCA News

Kusasa chequed by StreetSmart

Errol Cunnama & Graeme Comrie During December we staged two sterilisation days – Dr Adi and a small team from Drakenstein Veterinary Clinic undertook 22 sterilisations, while Dr Ilse from Stellenbosch Animal Hospital sterilised 26 animals. These days stretch our team and helpers to the limit – early mornings and late finishes are all part of the deal. A great deal of work goes into ensuring the dogs and cats are brought to our clinic in Groendal, cared for and returned home after surgery. It can be very frustrating when we sterilise most animals free of charge, but some owners seem unable to bring their animals to the clinic and helpers have to drive around to collect and return them. A huge thank you to everyone concerned. 48 animals will now lead healthier and safer lives. We plan two sterilisation days each month from January 2017. Our Inspector Lilly Konstabel passed her Inspector Refresher course in Johannesburg – well done Lilly. We organised for an extremely matted dog called Wollie from John Street in Groendal to be picked up, sedated, groomed and returned home. This animal must have been in such discomfort and pain and would have continued in this way for his lifetime. Thank you to the team. Susanne Richcreek donated some toys for puppies and kittens – thank you Susanne. Haute Cabrière and Achim and Hildegard Von Arnim donated some of their Haute Cabrière Chardonnay/ Pinot Noir to the SPCA Franschhoek. We thank you very much for this kind and generous donation.

Hospice News Colleen Douglas

The annual Hospice Pojiekos lunch held on 26 November was once again a great success. Thanks to Clive and Joanne Venning who so kindly opened their beautiful garden for the event. Our 88 guests enjoyed the most splendid day. Everyone appreciated the magnificent garden setting, the chilled champagne and the delicious lunch. The raffle was well supported and raised R7 000. Thanks go to Lynette, Majorie, Annika, Mariette, Riaan, Colleen, Marelize, Tinus and Rudolf – the Potjie ‘chefs’ – who slaved over their pots for hours in the hot sun to produce five different, delicious potjies. Dessert, courtesy of Liz Mills, rounded off the delightful lunch and all promised to support again next year. Thank you to Salon La Belle for the complimentary hair vouchers that every female guest received. To the helpers on the day – Tiana, Evelyn, Rachel, Matthew, Helen and Alfred a big thank you. On 27 November the NG Church held a Christmas Carol service for Hospice and the collection of R10

Thank you to the Franschhoek Monday afternoon sewing group and the Boland Kwilt Groep – who are quilters from Stellenbosch, Paarl, Franschhoek and Hermanus – who have made cushions for the animals in our kennels – the animals don’t mind that the donated scraps of fabrics don’t match! The Bridge House Boogie took place on 25 November with Franschhoek SPCA being a joint beneficiary along with the Bridge House Bursary Fund. Thanks go to Bridge House for hosting the event in their Barnyard Theatre and sharing the proceeds with our charity, but also a huge thank you to Franschhoek’s own fantastic Uncorked band and, of course, Doug Gurr who ran the auction. Gilly and Sandy Ord of Emthunzini Hats donated a percentage of their profits from their hat sales at the Champagne Festival to Franschhoek SPCA. We really appreciate all the assistance we have received during December and on an on-going basis. 105 was donated to Hospice – thank you. The Cap Classique & Champagne Festival on 3 & 4 December was a first for Hospice. Thank you to Three Streams for their generous donation of salmon/trout for the pancakes, you helped us raise R18 000 before expenses. Dale, thank you, for the boxes of ice and Kathy for the donation of serviettes, tubs and forks. To the following staff and volunteers, Jess, Liz, Larry, Jenny, Joan, Tracey, Helen, Marelize, Tiana, Ingrid, Barbara and Hillary who gave up their week-end to work in the hot sun: I thank you. On 5 December, we packed 150 Christmas boxes for our patients. Thanks to the following for their contribution/s: PicknPay – boxes and Pat for decorating them so beautifully. To the following who catered or gave gifts: Grade 7s from Franschhoek High School, Margo, the ladies from S & B group, Ann, Liz, Dords, Helen, Lyn, Colleen, Barbara, Marie-Louise, Nadia, Anton, Pam, Tracey, Carol, RUAH Church and the congregation. Finally, thank you, to Olivia (our Craft and Art volunteer) for the beautiful goodie bags for the day-care patients. Phew… That’s how we ended the year of 2016! Please diarise the following dates: 1 Feb 2017 - Volunteers Tea at Hospice Hall @ 10h00 10 Feb 2017 - Hospice Hop at the NG Kerk Hall @ 19h00 19 Feb 2017- Remembrance Service at VG Kerk @ 09h00 24 Feb 2017 - Annual Bridge Drive Luncheon at Domaine des Anges

On a beautiful day in the last week of November, StreetSmart presented a cheque to The Kusasa Project, their Franschhoek beneficiary. Le Quartier Français hosted the occasion, fittingly, as its restaurant and Bread and Wine were the first Franschhoek restaurants to become StreetSmart in November 2007. StreetSmart SA is an organisation dedicated to helping street children rebuild their lives through donations from restaurants in the Western Cape, Garden Route and Gauteng. Funds are raised by adding a R5 donation to each table's bill at participating restaurants. This donation is voluntary and diners are able to contribute more if they wish to. Nationally this partnership with 92 restaurants raised more than R1 060 000 during 2016, for organisations that are actively involved with social development and rehabilitation of street children; the ultimate goal being that of family re-unification. The R100 000 donated to The Kusasa Project was raised by Franschhoek diners in 2016, which means the money remains in the valley. The Kusasa Project has been in operation since 2006 and primarily addresses the educational needs of disadvantaged children by providing support, encouragement and the environment to learn in a safe, stimulating setting. The StreetSmart funds will be used towards the salaries of a social and community work manager and an auxiliary social worker. The seven restaurants in Franschhoek that are

The Fremco Trust received a welcome fund injection on 16 November. Present at the handover were (FLTR): Louis Cloete (Trustee: Fremco Trust), Wendell Jephtah (Trustee: Fremco Trust), John Hesom (Director: Frandevco), Bruce Berry (Chairman: Frandevco), Herman van der Merwe (Director: Frandevco), Ralph Damonse (Fremco Administrator), Dirk Hattingh (CEO: Frandevco), Dawie De Villiers (Trustee: Fremco Trust), Norval Williams (Chairman: Fremco Trust), Marion Adams (Trustee: Fremco Trust) and Ruth Morgan (Trustee: Fremco Trust).

The Franschhoek Country Club Estate Development Company (Pty) Ltd (Frandevco), developers of the Fransche Hoek Estate, handed over a financial contribution to the Fremco Trust, which represents community-based organizations in Franschhoek. The development of the Fransche Hoek Estate flowed from a social compact that was signed in 1998 by stake holders, including the then Franschhoek Municipality, as part of the Franschhoek Empowerment and Development

Riana Pretorius

Welkom 2017!

Sharesa Arendse, of Penny soos wat ons haar ken, het ‘n nuwe werksgeleentheid wat sy in 2017 gaan aandurf. Penny het ‘n groot rol gespeel in die meeste van die

Hospice staff and volunteers sold salmon pancakes at the MCC and Champagne Festival

Doctors from Bridge House

of her 38 modules over six years of study. She was the only one in her class to achieve 11 distinctions in her final year and was the top student in Internal Medicine, Paediatrics, Clinical Pharmacology, Forensic Medicine and Clinical Skills. Suzanne Pretorius Being accepted for medicine and veterinary science is not easy, yet an impressive number of Bridge House students have done so. Of the comparatively small number of past pupils since the first Matric class (consisting of seven pupils) in 1997, fourteen Doctors and three Vets are in the process of qualifying or have qualified.

currently StreetSmart are Le Quartier Français, Bread & Wine, Foliage, Haute Cabrière, Le Bon Vivant, Monneaux and Reuben’s. “StreetSmart, through the work of our beneficiaries, provides opportunities to empower street children and other vulnerable children in our communities to live viable lives” said Melanie Burke, Chairman of StreetSmart SA. She explained that all the money from diners’ donations went towards projects supporting the children; administrative costs of the organisation were covered by independent donations. Putting money in a street child’s hand keeps him on the street; eating and donating at a StreetSmart restaurant is the responsible way of helping a street child. www.streetsmartsa.org.za

Bursary boost

ACVV Nuus

At Stellenbosch University’s recent medical graduation, two of the new doctors receiving their MBChB degrees were from the Bridge House 2010 matric class. They are Suzanne Pretorius who was head girl and Carlo Vanzaghi Carlo Vanzaghi who was on the SLC executive. Carlo’s brother, Michele, is also studying medicine. Suzanne graduated MBChB (Cum Laude) and was awarded the medal for top Undergraduate Student in the class of 2016. She is the first female student in the history of the university to achieve distinctions in all

January 2017

Initiative (FEDI). Fremco each year awards bursaries to children from the Franschhoek community and donates a percentage of its income to the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. The project was financed by the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) and implemented by Frandevco. A unique development model was used, which is being used on other projects in South Africa as well. At the time of its formation the activities of the Fremco Trust were endorsed by President Nelson Mandela. projekte wat deur ACVV Franschhoek aangebied is. Sy is ‘n rolmodel vir soveel jong kinders in die gemeenskap. Die bejaardes van Groendenne het hulle kuiers saam so baie geniet. Penny het die maatskaplike werkers ook bederf met haar kennis en hulpvaardigheid. Ons gaan jou mis Penny! Jy gaan nou nie meer saam met ons werk nie, maar jy sal steeds in ons harte een van ons wees. Sterkte met jou nuwe werk! ACVV Franschhoek sien uit na nuwe uitdagings en nuwe gesigte wat ons gaan help om die uitdagings tromp op te loop.

Rotary News Mark Tanner

Three Franschhoek High School students recently gave their accounts of their RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) experiences at a Rotary meeting. As with previous attendees, Nichelle Cupido, Cortley Bailey and Brandon Pietersen, spoke of the importance of team building and exercises that develop not only leadership skills but also offer a sense of self-motivation. This is an ongoing Rotary project aimed at selected pupils. To find out more about this and other Rotary activities in the area, please contact Mark Tanner on 082 773 9217.

Developing Supporting Youth Leaders in the Valley Contact Jeremy Davids (Director) 082 472 5156 jdavids@thecharter.org.za

January 2017

Letters

info@franschhoektatler.co.za Franschhoek Tuk Tuk Services

Dear Editor I am sure, I, like many residents, was pleased to see the arrival of the Tuk Tuk taxis services in the village. However, nearly a year on I wonder if the licensing conditions and the monitoring of the operators are sufficient to ensure that the clients, visitors and residents are getting a good service, and that the service providers are not using and, or abusing all three categories. In particular, I think it is unacceptable that the Tuk Tuks park sometimes as many as three in row on the limited main street parking, that is intended for locals, or visitors. (The attached image shows an example of double parking). In addition, they are using loading bays and other “non-parking” areas. This is a compact village and it would not seem unreasonable that the Tuk Tuks are obliged to use a dedicated parking area, such as the concreted area behind the municipality building and signs pointing to this area could be placed along the main street. In any event, if it is not within the existing operation conditions then it must be made a license condition that the current parking practices are unacceptable and are not allowed. There is then the question of tariffs. There are many

Franschhoek Tatler horrendous stories of visitors being charged “rip off prices” for stupidly short distances. The licensing authority must oblige operators to clearly display fare tariffs inside the Tuk Tuk, with the license number and the contact details of the licensing authority to enable proper reporting of misconduct, or abuse. The questions of safety and liability must also be properly covered. Do these operators have the correct insurances and what is the mechanism to ensure that that these are in place and maintained? By their very nature these vehicles are flimsy constructions, which gives rise to further questions; are seatbelts fitted to these vehicles and are the drivers enforcing that passengers wear them and are the police ensuring that these regulations are followed? Is the vehicle lighting adequate to drive beyond city limits? What are those limits, if any? Are the vehicles safe and/or licensed to operate on motorways? As I stated at the opening, I welcome this service, but we, the community, must ensure that what we have properly represents Franschhoek and that it is adequately regulated, safe and fit for purpose. At present I am not convinced. Kind regards Roger Woodbury-Eggins 5 Victoria Village

Goodwill amongst men Dear Editor As a long term “swallow”, eccentric Englishman “out in the midday sun” on my pedal bike, I greet all and sundry locals, they trudging on foot, and invariably enjoy passing but human contact, a wave, a smile, a “good day”. Not once have I seen a speeding car stop to offer a lift into town, my regular practice; I am invariably rewarded with a snatch of conversation and warm thanks. Regards, JWL

Outstanding tourism service

Angela Williams, the friendly and well-loved face of La Motte’s guest reception, has recently received the Great Wine Capitals Best of Wine Tourism Judges Commendation for Outstanding Service in the Wine Tourism Industry. Angela started her career at La Motte 24 years ago as a cleaner in the tasting room. Through the estate’s training and development programme, she quickly moved on to become a tasting room assistant, later tasting room co-ordinator and, since 2010, she has been heading up La Motte’s guest reception, welcoming close to every one of the thousands of guests visiting the estate on an annual basis. La Motte’s CEO, Hein Koegelenberg said: “We are very proud of Angela as well as our whole frontline team. They show what true Cape Winelands hospitality is all about.”

Probus Club Julie Mitchell Our next meeting is on Monday 6 February 2017. Andrew Kenny will be speaking on Prospects for Nuclear Power in South Africa and a Russian Deal at Franschhoek Cellars. Monday, 6 March: A.G.M. What is probus all about? In South Africa there is a rapidly growing number of Probus Clubs, which offer retirees the facility to manage the transition from high pressure executive, professional and other vocational activity to a calmer way of life. This is achieved through these features of membership:

“He who has the youth, has the now and the future” Mojalefa, or “Moja” as he’s called by the team, represents Amplified Youth! on the Franschhoek Youth Forum. Moja grew up in Potchefstroom in the North West Province and matriculated in 2010 from Mayflower College. He decided to study Tourism at the Vuselela FET College in 2011. It was a big moment in Moja’s life as he became the first person in his family to enroll for Tertiary Education. Moja found his studies particularly helpful as it provided him with the tools to help navigate all the missionary excursions he undertook with his church. Moja was living life and had lots of fun. Everything in life was about himself and he was constantly looking for ways to empower himself. Until 26 May 2006, that is. It was on that day that he gave his heart to the Lord and decided to become a god-fearing young man. By making that very powerful decision and under the mentorship of Pastor Anton Myburgh, Moja realized that life is more about what you do for others, rather than how much you can do for yourself. He took another brave decision to relocate to Franschhoek and took up an internship at Shofar Ministries Franschhoek as he wanted to keep contact

Editor’s Letter

Siegfried Schäfer

Dear Readers The latter part of 2016 provided me with few reminders of why the Franschhoek lifestyle is so hard to beat. Just before the MCC and Champagne Festival I was invited to an exclusive Champagne Tasting at Le Lude. On offer were nine truly memorable French Champagnes, interspersed with a couple of seriously good efforts by Le Lude’s Paul Gerber to keep the tasters on their toes. Vintages ranged from 1996 (yes, champagne can last that long!) to 2010. Champagne houses represented included the, to me familiar, Bollinger (RD 2002) and Dom Perignon (Oenotechque 1996) as well as a number of truly boutique producers. Despite the undeniable appeal of the big brands it was the lesser-known ones that really expanded my bubbly horizons. I was surprised that the French authorities allowed any of the 988 bottles of Duval Leroy’s Authentis 2005 that was produced to leave the country. What a beautiful wine! What’s more it’s made from 100% Petit Meslier – a cultivar I had never heard of before. MCC maker Paul and Mr Bubbly, Pieter Ferreira, were fortunately on hand to enlighten me about the fact that there are seven Champagne cultivars and not only the three I normally think of when I think of Champagne. This tasting really epitomised what I think Franschhoek is about, or arguably should be, if in some respects it’s not: An elegant setting, the ever-present glorious views, fantastic wines, a mix of knowledgeable and knowledge-hungry people and great food – the latter by Le Lude’s Nicolene Barrow. Definitely a memorable evening – well done to all concerned! Two days later I attended the MCC and Champagne Festival. I couldn’t fault it: Beautiful setting, elegant people, diverse exhibitors, well organised and (best of all, although a bit lucky) the Sunday’s weather was a bit cooler than we’ve come to expect of the bubbly festival weekend! The very next weekend I was at the media launch of Black Elephant Vintner’s food and wine

collaboration with Ryan’s Kitchen. The irreverent wine labels might take the pomp and pretence out of wine enjoyment, but make no mistake, the wines are seriously good! I particularly enjoyed the MCC with its (deliberately) near impossible to read label and the Timothy white blend. Chef Ryan Smith paired the latter with ‘Sous vide buttery baby potatoes with snoek and fresh chives’. Another standout was the ‘Line fish with mole and coriander’ paired with the Amistad Pinotage. Fish with chocolate and paired with red wine is one of those really innovative things I’ve come to expect of Chef Ryan. Perhaps not everybody’s cup of tea, but what is life without taking a few risks and challenging a few conventions? After all the eating and drinking it was time for a change of pace. I was guide to a group of hikers who spent 5 days in the valley. An easy walk through the village (in some very welcome rain), a moderately strenuous hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve and a walk through some of the valley’s farms showed off the different aspects of our beautiful valley. There really is no shortage of good reasons to want to live the Franschhoek lifestyle. What I do find more than a bit disconcerting though is that some of the people who are attracted to the Franschhoek lifestyle want to bring with them some of the less pleasing aspects of their former lifestyles. A case in point is to be found at the northern end of Akademie Street: the third last house on the right, to be precise. This house, which clearly doesn’t comply with planning regulations, and has been named ‘Alcatraz’ by those in the neighbourhood, must be one of the most inappropriate and downright ugly constructions to have been erected in the village for quite some time. With its blockhouse-like appearance and ridiculously high electric fence it would perhaps be at home in some nouveau riche Gauteng neighbourhood, but certainly not here. To the owners of this monstrosity I want to say what everybody in the area is thinking: You should have left Johannesburg’s insecurities and bad taste in Johannesburg – they’re not welcome here! To those who value and celebrate what makes Franschhoek so special I’d like to wish a happy, healthy and prosperous 2017! Until next month.

Deadlines - December 2016 Issue: Ad Bookings: 15 November 2016 Artwork: 16 November 2016 | Editorial: 15 November 2016

Angela Williams

• Opportunities to extend compatible social contacts and maintain an interest in the topical issues of the day. • Nurturing positive attitudes to ageing through group recreation and the sharing of information on issues of concern to Senior Citizens. • Support in grief and illness. • Speakers at monthly luncheons who provide a fresh mental challenge and stimulation. • We are a-political and non-sectarian • We are mindful of the fact that costs are an important consideration. Membership fees, therefore, are kept to a minimum; while monthly luncheon costs vary. Probus is not a Service/Fund Raising organization. If you are interested in joining or just wish to come along to any meeting please contact me on 083 303 333 5.

Jeremy Davids

Franschhoek Youth Forum presents Mojalefa Mohale

with Pastor Myburgh and work under the watch full eye of Pastor Theuns Pauw. Moja immediately took an interest in Youth Ministry and Leadership. He works with Amplified Youth! whose main aim is to enlighten the youth with the light of God. He sees himself merely as an instrument for God and, knowing the importance of a relationship with God, motivates his youth members with the word of God. Amplified Youth! meets every Thursday at 17h30 and anyone is welcome to attend. Moja feels that the Youth Forum is a powerful meeting space for young leaders as all of the forum’s members have a dream to better the lives of young people. He also has that dream and therefore feels empowered by being a member of the Forum. His vision for the Youth Forum is that it becomes a body that personifies hope and peace and that its members must be selfless leaders who are willing to work towards the betterment of the youth in the valley, but never take the credit for it.

FWV News During early 2016 Franschhoek hosted the annual meeting of the Délice Network of good food cities of the world. As hosts, with the Cape Winelands District Municipality, FWV took it upon ourselves to get the different food cities from around the world involved in a charity organisation. We chose the Plastic Project. The purpose of the Plastic Project is to transform trash into treasure, crocheting used, sanitised plastic bags into charming functional everyday items, such as handbags and baskets. Each item bears a label with the name and a photograph of the lady responsible for the eye-catching design – a simple, yet heartfelt introduction of the designer to the owner. The Plastic Project is an initiative of Amma South Africa, creating sustainable employment for women in the local communities, addressing both the pressing issue of poverty as well as pollution caused by discarded plastic; a devastating threat to aquatic life, birds and animals. Apart from serving the environmental cause, proceeds from selling these unique pieces provides the enterprising ladies with a much-needed income as well as hope for a better future for their families, while benefiting a feeding programme for disadvantaged

Wanda Vlok-Keuler hands Délice President Olivier Marette the well-travelled bag

children in the local communities. We asked all 14 countries represented at the conference to bring with them some plastic bags from their own country. With these plastic bags one of the Plastic Project ladies, Eunice, made a basket which was taken to the AGM in Bordeaux in November 2016 and sold through a silent auction. A total of R3506.69 was raised and has been handed over. This year’s topic at the Délice AGM was "The Impact of Food and Beverage Venues on City Marketing and Economic or Touristic Growth". FWV was represented at the AGM by Wanda VlokKeuler – Marketing Manager of La Motte Winery.

Gardening in January Natie Ferreira

It is finally behind us. The year that slayed giants – Bowie, Prince, Castro, Ali, Wilder – also brought us fierce drought, tough financial conditions, turbulent politics, Brexit and Donald Trump. Here is hoping that 2017 will not only be a great new year, but will also herald a new era of prosperity, peace and abundance for all. As usual I will start the year with my trends forecast. Looking back at last year’s list I noted 3 possible trends that I named dogscaping, xeriscaping and healthscaping. All three of these became big in 2016. A visit to the Farm Sanctuary in Franschhoek will convince you of how trendy pet-scaping can be. We had no choice but to go completely waterwise in our gardening. And gardening for health – both as exercise and to provide healthy food – is as trendy as ever. I also tagged on to my forecast from 2015 that we will see a move away from geometric shapes towards more natural lines. This is slowly happening and I think that 2017 will be the year for a softening of the appearance of landscaping in parks and open spaces. Gardening is art; creative art as well as the slowest form of performance art all in one. We are the choreographers of the show. In 2017 I see a big movement away from taming nature towards working with her. We will start to embrace the wind not fight it, capture storm water, not drain it and live with the lay of the land, not bulldoze it. Large swathes of meadow grasses and flowers will replace lawns, tight groupings of trees will replace the single large specimen and hard landscaping features will become functional art forms.

Plant of the Month Frankie Brookes

Franschhoek Tatler Some trends will be controversial though. I see way too many installations of faux grass. People’s obsession with the American dream of a lush front lawn will make them go to extremes. There are even companies now that will paint your dead grass green with sport field paint. A borehole has become a status symbol. The cost of installation puts this above the means of most gardeners. Tapping into our underground water sources is now a privilege reserved for the advantaged few. This water is still finite though and we already see a serious drop in ground water levels. The answer lies in finding new ways to save the available water, not to look for new sources of water. Another interesting trend that I foresee (I might be completely wrong on this one!) is a return to the seventies – colourful bell bottom pants, handmade knitwear, disco, black metal and dark wood, decoupage, macramé, papier mache and sea shells everywhere. On the gardening front this will mean a massive comeback for indoor plants – just like in the seventies we will see ivy trailing our curtain rails, ferns in the bathroom, hanging gardens spilling over macramé plant holders, pot plant stands in the foyer and balcony gardens resembling tropical forests. We will take the indoors outside and bring the outdoors inside. After all the gluttony of Christmas some form of detox or fasting is on everyone’s mind in January. I think I am going to attempt a home-grown fast this year – eat only from the garden for 21 days. Our hens will provide the bulk of the protein and we have the usual summer abundance of tomatoes, peppers, new potatoes, salad greens, brinjals, figs, kale, pumpkins, squash, green beans and sweet corn to provide the carbs and vitamins. We are lucky to have our own olive oil, the fridge is stocked with some pasturereared broiler chickens and then there are even a few bottles of last season’s bootleg left in the garage… May 2017 be the year of your life! other annuals or plants that require regular watering, especially if you’re using an automated sprinkler system. Celosia are also prone to root fungus, which is just one more reason to ensure you keep the watering to a minimum. Portulaca

Bold Bright and Beautiful

If bold, bright and beautiful is what you are after, then December’s companions are right up your alley. Celosia offers up a colour feast of red, orange, yellow, hot pink, rose, mahogany and magenta which are vivid and remain so for about eight weeks while Portulaca, our versatile little companion is available in scarlet, pink, orange and yellow for the bolder gardener. Celosia

January 2017

Join the hunt for pathogens in the fynbos!

Some of the world's favourite plants, including gladioli, freesias, agapanthus, proteas and ixia, originate from the South African fynbos flower kingdom. When next you are hiking or mountain biking through the gorgeous fynbos biome, keep an eye out for dying plants and, if you see any, take a photo, mark the GPS point and share your observations on the Cape Citizen Science website. This way the public can help to conserve this unique part of the South African heritage by contributing to a citizen science project. The Cape’s fynbos makes up the smallest floral kingdom in the world and is the only one that occurs entirely in one country – ours. These plants are most abundant in the 100 to 200 km wide coastal belt stretching from Clanwilliam on the west coast to Port Elizabeth on the southeast coast of the country, where it accounts for half of the surface area and 80% of the plant species in the region. The Cape Peninsula alone has 2 285 species in an area one third the size of greater London! As a result of this, the area was declared one of the world's 34 biodiversity 'hot spots' and in 2004 was confirmed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although 20% of this kingdom is already officially protected, its sheer diversity means that much remains to be done to ensure that this botanical treasure is conserved for generations to come. Joey Hulbert, a PhD student in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Pretoria (UP) and an Affiliate Research Student in the Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology at Stellenbosch University, has initiated a citizen science project that enlists the help of the public to identify pathogens (tiny organisms that cause disease) that may be responsible for killing some of the fynbos species in the region. The Cape Citizen Science project is supported by the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) at UP and Hulbert has already managed to engage more than a hundred participants in his scientific research about plant disease in the fynbos. Hulbert research focuses on a fascinating group of microorganisms called Phytophthora, which is the Greek term for 'plant destroyer' (phyto = plant, phthora = destroyer). Species in this group are known to be responsible for diseases such as the Irish potato famine and sudden oak death. According to Hulbert, Phytophthora cinnamomi (a pathogen that was first described killing cinnamon

trees), is known to cause root disease in many protea species in the fynbos and it may even be killing the silver trees around Table Mountain. For the first phase of the project, Hulbert is calling on the public to share their observations and report dying plants that they encounter while hiking or cycling in fynbos areas. Participants can contribute samples that could lead to the discovery of new Phytophthora species in an area outside the reach of the organisers of the project, provided that they have permission from the landowner to do so. He however cautions that participants should guard against disturbing red-listed species (by rather marking the GPS point and submitting a photograph using the tools provided on the Cape Citizen Science website when they encounter a sick or dying plant. 'You can save a lot of plants by reporting an epidemic early,' says Hulbert. 'Early detection is critical for preventing the spread of invasive species. Your report may even be the first of its kind! Reporting new disease sightings quickly will allow land managers to try to eradicate the invasive disease causing organisms before they spread too far.' Landowners willing to permit research activity on their property are encouraged to get involved with the project and, because citizen science projects provide many opportunities for experimental, nontraditional, hands-on and outside-the-classroom educational activities, schools in the area can also contact Hulbert for support in getting learners involved in hunting for pathogens in the fynbos as a fun and practical learning experience. The project is partially funded by the public and the success of a recent crowd-funding campaign illustrates that there is public support for this type of research, as well as a need for the alternative education it provides outside the classroom. Members of the public are invited to contribute to this project by sponsoring an activity for a day or a week (for example covering the costs of food and transport for a group of youth that would not normally have such an opportunity), helping to organise an outreach or sampling activity for school children, contributing incentives for participation (for example extra credit, materials, contest awards, food/beverage coupons), or by directly funding the project to purchase lab supplies or sequencing costs. Come learn with us – who knows, your contribution could lead to the next big discovery! http://citsci.co.za

Rainfall Figures Measured at La Cotte/Nerina Street for periods indicated mm/year 2004

Celosia are exceptionally hardy little plants and are very wind tolerant so this would be a particularly good choice for gardens exposed to strong winds as well as coastal gardens. Celosias prefer to grow slightly drier rather than wetter. Try not to plant them with

Plant up your portulacas in rockeries, hanging baskets, pots, between stepping stones and even as a ground cover if that is what you need. Their eye-catching colours will make any of these areas impossible to miss. There is no need to deadhead portulacas, but giving them a good (few inches) haircut in late summer when they get leggy will afford you another blooming burst in autumn. An added feature, which not many people are aware of is that they attract bees in their droves! Don’t get a fright if your flowers die after the bees have visited though because it’s perfectly natural for them to do so about an hour after pollination. www.lifeisagarden.co.za

mm/month 2015

709

2005

916

2006

884

2007

1153

Dam Levels 2016

Month

Accumulative

Month

Accumulative

January

February

March

57 55

148

As at 12 December 2016

Steenbras Upper

75.7%

Steenbras Lower

45.4%

Wemmershoek

48.4%

176

Voëlvlei

58.8% 44.2% 64.0%

2008

1217

April

2009

978

May

106

June

166

272

198

374

Theewaterskloof

July

190

462

209

583

August

551

Berg River Dam

656

September

592

712

2010

740

2011

830

2012

1079

2013

1471

October

603

726

51.2%

2014

1033

November

644

732

661

December

661

Total Storage This Time Last Year

2015

Total Storage

61.4%

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Carpentry venture thrives with Boschendal support

Classic Furniture for discerning clients Anyone driving, cycling or walking through the western sector of Boschendal estate near Franschhoek, which today is occupied mainly by the fast growing Aberdeen Angus herd, a merino sheep flock and 4,000 free range chickens, will come across a cluster of old farm buildings in which, among other activities, a relatively new enterprise, backed and supported by Boschendal, is now in full swing and beginning to make a name for itself. This new venture, trading under the name Classic Furniture, is run by Clyde Daniels with the help of two trainees and its purpose is to make specialist furniture and other wooden items, usually in response to orders received. The fact that Clyde has been asked to train others in the skills he already possesses is very much in line with the philosophy of Rob Lundie, CEO of Boschendal, who is endeavouring wherever possible to foster artisan and other skills in the Franschhoek community. Although born not far away at Stellenbosch, Clyde, one of five children of a reasonably prosperous builder, moved with the family to Johannesburg when he was only nine years old – and it was not until seven years ago that he was able after a very long absence finally to get back to the Boland, the countryside he infinitely prefers to any up north and rent a house at Pniel. Clyde started his working career by drafting plans for houses and became interested in wood carving after working with his uncle. He then went on to work for the well-known Penn and Witelson in Johannesburg in 1974 and here he was trained by Pietro Anton Ellli. In 1984 he joined Modellers of Antiques, one of the most successful firms in South Africa, producing period furniture. (They provided furniture for the South African Parliament as well as for leading families such as the Oppenheimers.) Here he was singled out by Attilio Reck for advanced artisan training. In 1991 Clyde started working for himself and against all odds, since he was not able to raise finance, became involved with several big jobs for Sun International and The One and Only, not only in South Arica but abroad. In 2005 he had to retire temporarily from work because he had become seriously ill. He moved back to the Cape in 2009 and

struggled to break into the local market until Bennie Botha of Cape Heritage Furniture began outsourcing work to him, much of it was for Cape wine estates. It was the chief chef at DelaireGraff who recommended Clyde to Rob Lundie, CEO of Boschendal, as a cabinet maker capable of handling almost any wood-related task. Those who have kept in touch with Boschendal’s recent history will know that Lundie has led his team into a wide variety of new enterprises. True to his declared policy of sourcing what was needed for these facilities from the farm itself or from near-at-hand local suppliers, Lundie established Clyde in the farm premises mentioned above and commissioned him to supply tables, chairs, benches, cupboards, partitions, screens, counters and 101 other items such as wooden bowls, cheese, bread and meat boards and even wooden coasters, all which are now installed or used in the estate’s facilities. Most of the furniture made is given a simple farmhouse look, in keeping with the Cape Dutch and Cape Vernacular styles of the estate’s buildings. Clyde and his apprentices are also on occasions very useful to the estate in repairing wooden fixtures such as stable doors and ceilings. Much of the woodwork that visitors see in the new Olive Press conference centre and the overnight accommodation cottages was made by Clyde’s team. It is now clear that Lundie, himself a dedicated entrepreneur who throughout his life has been self-employed, saw from the start the possibility of establishing Clyde as a majority shareholder in his own business – as he had already done with other suppliers and servicers to Boschendal. To this end he made available to the carpentry initiative a back-up of administrative, accounting and clerical services from Boschendal’s own team. Clyde readily admits that he could never have managed these aspects of the business on his own and without them the new enterprise could not have flourished. Today, therefore, those visiting Boschendal or getting in touch with its management can, if they so wish, place orders for this top-of-the-range cabinet making and carpentry team. For further information contact Rob Lundie on 021 870 4200.

Clyde Daniels and his team made most of the furniture for Boschendal’s restaurant, deli/bistro, conference centre and 25 rental cottages.

Let the Lawyer Handle It Graeme Falck

Minimum wages for domestic workers

This year’s new minimum wages for domestic workers in Franschhoek (as part of Stellenbosch Municipality) are as follows: • Minimum wages for domestic workers who work more than 27 ordinary hours per week: • Hourly Rate R12.42, Weekly Rate R559.09, Monthly Rate R2422.54 • Minimum wages for domestic workers who work 27 ordinary hours per week or less: • Hourly Rate R14.54, Weekly Rate R392.59, Monthly Rate R1701.06

These minimum rates apply for the period 1 December 2016 to 30 November 2017 Who is covered? • All domestic workers in South Africa working in a private household • People employed by employment services • Independent contractors who are doing domestic work • A person doing gardening in a private home • People who look after children, sick or old people and people with disabilities in a private home • A person driving for the household But excluding: • Domestic workers employed on farms • Domestic workers employed in activities covered by another sectoral determination or bargaining council agreement (such as contract cleaning workers). (This article first appeared in LawDotNews and is reproduced with permission from the copyright holder DotNews and from Falck Attorneys.)

Susan Charlesworth ATTORNEY • NOTARY • CONVEYANCER

Anyone can give advice, but independent advice is priceless PSG Wealth Winelands offers • • •

Portfolio management Stockbroking Investment advice

Contact us at WINELANDS | T +27 (21) 863 3770 | E dawid.botha@psg.co.za | psg.co.za Klein Amsterdam, c/o Main Road and Berg River Boulevard, Paarl PSG Wealth Financial Planning (Pty) Ltd is an authorised financial services provider. FSP 728

Areas of practice: Estate and succession planning | Commercial Law Administration of estates, trusts & curatorships Engineering & Construction Law Antenuptial contracts | Conveyancing Unit 4 / 79 Artisan Village, Cabrière Street, Franschhoek, 7690 Tel: +27 (0)21 876 2592 Fax: +27 (0)21 876 2591 Email: susancharlesworth.law@telkomsa.net Also at 342 Val De Vie, Paarl www.susancharlesworth.co.za

Franschhoek Tatler

Financial Matters Celia McGuinness

Beware of Trump’s victory: Hard economic times loom for SA

Donald Trump will soon be the 45th President of the United States. So far he is still threatening to implement his populist campaign promises (e.g. partially repeal Obamacare, tear up trade agreements and deport 11 million illegal immigrants) and has appointed a hard-line conservative to a senior position in the White House. The American economy and how South Africa will fare The most critical issue for us is the economy. So far, it does not look good. Trump has promised the US corporate tax cuts and a massive infrastructure programme. Global markets are worried about this, particularly emerging markets, like South Africa. These programs will see the US deficit increase from the current 80% of GDP to well over 100%. US long-term interest rates have sharply spiked upwards since Trump won. The well-known economist Henry Kaufman has predicted that the thirty five year bull market for low long-term interest rates is over. This is because Trump’s policies threaten to revive inflation in the United States which will push up interest rates to dampen inflationary expectations. In turn, this will encourage investors to reduce their exposure to higher risk emerging market bonds, resulting in a sell-off of emerging currencies – to date the Rand has lost more than 8% to the US$. To protect their currencies, emerging markets will raise interest rates which will reduce the potential for

economic growth. This is not good news for South Africa as our economy will only grow 0.5% this year and if this is reduced in future years, we face more tax increases, lower employment and social unrest. What about commodities? The stimulus package will initially benefit commodities such as iron ore and copper. If the package translates into economic growth, this will help South Africa’s major commodities such as platinum. So far platinum has dropped since Trump’s election, indicating that US economic growth beyond the stimulus package may be low. Gold, our other major commodity export, has also dropped as rising interest rates dampen demand. Protectionism Trump has also promised to repeal free trade agreements, heralding a return to the economic nationalism of the 1930’s. Our economy is an open one and has benefited from lower tariffs, whilst growing protectionism will reduce the prospect of economic growth. So what? And will it actually happen? Difficult times since the global financial crisis of 2008/9 have undermined the post Second World War economic consensus which has brought prosperity to the world. The problem with rising protectionism is that it does not bring economic prosperity but instead increases the potential for populism, which is already a rising trend globally. Despite this, there were similar gloomy forecasts when George Bush was elected in 2000. Bush turned out to be positive for the African continent as he launched a successful crusade to fight AIDS and encouraged more open trade with the USA. Remember also that power is institutionalised in the United States and Trump as President could well be prevented from introducing many of his proposed controversial initiatives.

Business Leadership Tony Frost

The world we live in … and hope

I probably don’t have to point out that our world is pretty turbulent, full of volatility, insecurity and uncertainty at the moment. Actually, that is the way it always is and always has been. This is not new. It just feels that way because we are living it now and we feel it now. If we think back to any age and examine the circumstances of the time you will find that the people of that time by no means enjoyed an untroubled and peaceful life. Of course there are brief bouts of peace and tranquillity, but these never last for long. Humankind has mostly made progress because of the challenges it subjects itself to. We are the masters of self-imposed turbulence. We created Zuma; we elected Donald Trump; we allowed the unspeakable tragedies of Syria; ISIS is us; so were the Nazis; and migration; and colonisation; and mfecane; and Attila the Hun; and many other miseries that we brought upon ourselves. It is doubtful that we will ever stop doing this to ourselves and as the world grows more and more over-crowded it is likely that there will be more of the misery-invoking turbulences. The question is, therefore, not so much how do we stop them (although we should continue striving to prevent them), but more importantly what do we do to minimise the misery and assist those around us to make the most of the circumstances, learn from them and emerge stronger than they were before the difficulties started. This is not easy – especially in today’s world where any news, and especially bad news, is spread quicker than any wildfire by the ubiquitous social media. We love to hear the worst of those around us and of our leaders. We seldom seek out the good and best of our surroundings and the people around us. So in a sense we make our own misery. The consequence of engaging and helping to spread the social wildfire is that we also engage in the negative programming of our brains to seek out the bad, the negative, and the nasty and immediately embroider and spread these as though they are the ultimate truth. Of course, the reality is that they are at the very best only a halftruth because people are not universally bad and are definitely not permanently and completely bad. All of

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January 2017

CGI Group

One of the core holdings in our model international share portfolio is a Canadian company, CGI Group. Founded in 1976, CGI is one of the world’s five largest information technology (IT) and business process companies with 68 000 employees serving clients on five continents. The revolutionary impact of technology and the increasing digitalisation of services is something that affects us on a daily basis. Something as simple as paying with a credit card at the supermarket comprises a process where a card machine communicates electronically with a credit provider’s system, the credit provider clears the transaction and the funds are transferred from the payee’s account to the beneficiary. This process is instantaneous and must be secure. CGI develops and implement processes like these. CGI Group’s revenue exceeded C$10 billion in 2016, with a net profit margin of 10% and the company currently has work in process exceeding C$20 billion in value. This indicates the demand for CGI’s services. The increasing trend of digitalisation gives sustainability to CGI’s business model. CGI works in partnership with software giants like Microsoft, Oracle, SAP and Cisco where CGI integrates

us know many very good people who are busy with very good works that contribute to making our country and world a better place. So what is the answer? Sadly there is no magic bullet; there is no ‘one size fits all’ answer to this conundrum. However there are definitely strategies that we can all deploy that will help each of us to be more effective; and at the same time contribute to creating a more peaceful positive world. At the heart of this approach is the ability to engender and nurture a sense of hope. Hope is not some fragile, ephemeral fantasy utilised by poets and musicians as a sop to society. And it is not optimism with its permanently positive, often baseless foundation. Hope is made of much tougher stuff than that. Hope is what one has when one has weighed up all of the issues, all the facts and has found a way through the morass to a better future. This is the essence of hope. It is often the tough route but the one with the best chance of success. It is not the blind stumbling forward based on an optimistically anticipated outcome. The best leaders understand this dynamic. The best leaders develop the ability to analyse the circumstances in which they find themselves and then seek out the best way to a positive solution; not always the easiest way but the best way in the circumstances. Then they use this knowledge, this hope, to inspire those around them with a new-found sense of direction; a new positive energy and belief in the future. They find that they have hope that things will be better if they work together. It is this hope which give us a belief in each other, in our country and our world. tony@siroccostrategy.com

these companies’ software optimally with clients’ existing processes. CGI clients include companies like AXA, Vodafone, Volvo, Pfizer, Air France – KLM, the Canadian government and the US Departments of State and Defence. CGI’s record of completing 95% of projects on time and within budget (as per their annual report) and their expertise, which is difficult to duplicate, makes them an extremely valuable partner to their clients. Their capabilities across sectors and markets also enable them to provide more innovative solutions to their clients. CGI’s geographical revenue split is: 43% from Northern America, 32% from Europe, 15% from Great Britain and 10% from the rest of the world. The regions that CGI focus on represent 80% of the world’s IT spend and the sectors that CGI focuses on represent 90% of global IT spend. CGI is listed on both the Toronto and New York stock exchanges and has a market value of C$19 billion (US$ 14.48 billion). CGI shares are trading at a price-to-earnings ratio of 18 and an expected price-to-earnings ratio of 16.6. The company had an average return on equity of 15.2% per annum over the previous five years and earnings growth of 16.5% per year over the same period. The interests of management, employees and shareholders of CGI are also well aligned. More than three quarters of CGI employees are shareholders and the second largest shareholder is the founder and executive chairman, Serge Godin (66). CGI Group shares are not in a price bubble or an intrinsic bubble at the moment and are a quality long term investment.

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Book Review

Charlotte van Zyl

Under the Udala Trees

met Ashley Williams, Franschhoek Posbesteller

Hoe lank werk jy al by Franschhoek Poskantoor en hoe het jy daar beland? Ek werk al oor die twintig jaar by Franschhoek Poskantoor. Ek was eers Posman by Paarl Poskantoor. Franschhoek het ‘n opening gehad en ek is gevra om Franschhoek toe te kom. Dit blyk dat jy die enigste posbesteller hier is. Is daar nie twee sulke poste nie? Ons het twee poste, maar op die oomblik as gevolg van finansiële oorwegings is net myne gevul. Ons kry wel hulp deur middel van die Posman van Villiersdorp wat ons elke tweede dag kom help. Hy woon in Groendal, dus is dit ook vir hom voordelig. Hoeveel fietse vir pos aflewering is by Franschhoek se poskantoor beskikbaar en wie is verantwoordelik vir die instandhouding? Ons het vier fietse en die instandhouding word deur onsself gedoen. Wat doen jy as jy ‘n papwiel kry en wat veroorsaak dit? Die papwiele word maar veroorsaak deur die dorings op die grondpaaie wat ons moet ry. Die fiets moet dan gestoot word tot by die kantoor waar dit dan reggemaak word. Hoeveel leweringspunte is daar waar jy moet aangaan en watter een is die verste? Daar is oor die vyfduisend afleweringspunte in Franschhoek en die verste een is in Groendal. Hoe laat begin jou werk as posbesteller en hoe verloop jou dag?

Ons begin soggens om 07h30. Ons ontvang die dag se pos van ons depot, Cape Mail, in Goodwood. Ons begin deur die pos te sorteer en die strate s’n agtermekaar te sit. Wanneer alles agtermekaar en uitgesorteer is, word dit in ons afleweringbakke gepak en neem ons dit uit op die fietse. Ons gaan gewoonlik so om en by 11h00 uit en keer weer so om en by 15h00 terug na die kantoor. Dit blyk dat die werk fiksheid verg. Hoe handhaaf jy die nodige krag en uithouvermoë? Ek is baie sportief en behalwe vir die oefening wat ek daagliks op my fiets kry, draf en stap ek en my vrou ook gereeld. Watter sport be-oefen jy? Tafeltennis, tennis en krieket. Jy lyk altyd gelukkig en vriendelik. Ervaar jy ooit slegte tye om pos af te lewer? Daar is dae dat ‘n mens ook maar ‘n slegte dag beleef, maar ek probeer altyd positief wees. ‘n Glimlag kan dalk net iemand se dag ophelder. Wie is die lede van jou gesin en waar woon julle? My gesin bestaan uit myself, my vrou, twee kinders en een kleinkind. Ons is woonagtig in Pniel. Wat doen julle vakansies? Ons is lief daarvoor om op toere te gaan waar ons ook kan gaan stap en die natuur geniet. As jy nie vir die poskantoor gewerk het nie, watter loopbaan sou jy graag anders wou volg? Ek sou graag by sportafrigting betrokke wou wees.

Franschhoek Summer Wines 4 February 2017

Get ready for a high summer celebration at this year’s Franschhoek Summer Wines – Saturday, 4 February, at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards. Come and taste the Franschhoek Vignerons’ choices for summer. Whites, rosés, Méthode Cap Classiques and light reds – all will be revealed on the day! The wines have been handpicked by the winemakers to complement the hot summer days. Pair your favourites with delicious food from the rotisserie kitchen, as you relax on the veranda or the

sprawling lawn with panoramic views of the valley. Live entertainment completes what promises to be a perfect day out in the winelands. Keep things cool and dress elegantly in white. Tickets are available from www.webtickets.co.za at R180 per person. This includes a wine glass and a tasting of all the wines on show between 12h00 and 17h00. For more info contact the Franschhoek Wine Valley offices on 021 876 2861 or info@franschhoek.org.za.

By Chinelo Okparanta Publ: Granta, 328 pages This powerful first novel by Chinelo Okparanta follows her debut collection of short stories that won the 2014 Lamba Award. She also joins the increasing number of African women writers – many, like her, from Nigeria – who are dealing with current sexual and political issues. Like Chimamanda Adichie’s “Half a Yellow Sun” this novel describes the effect on a young woman’s life of the ravages of the Biafran War. But what sets this book aside from the others is the fact that it deals with the adolescence and maturity of a homosexual woman in Biafra. This is an added level of complexity and danger in a country where President Goodluck Jonathan joined his Ugandan counterpart in 2014 in criminalizing same-sex marriages by signing a bill known as the “jail the gays” act. It is quite astonishing that this relatively short novel covers the life of a woman from early childhood to mature motherhood, always against the background of violence. Not only the physical violence of air raids and of soldiers on the ground, but also the bodily and emotional violence against homosexuals. Both are equally irrational, while at the same time sanctioned by laws and decrees. The main character is Ijeoma, a Christian Igbo girl, growing up in a middle-class family with a bookish father. When her father is killed in an air raid it is not clear whether he was actually committing suicide by refusing to take shelter. The effect on the family is catastrophic and she is sent off to live with a schoolmaster’s family some distance away from the war zone. Here she meets Amina, a Muslim Hausa girl, the same age as she. In carefully observed scenes we see the girls drift towards a mutually protective friendship that gradually morphs into a gay relationship. It is almost imperceptible, and all the more credible for its naturalness. At the same time we observe the passage of history as Biafra loses its independence and a new political

dispensation forms. Because of this, Ijeoma has to move away from her foster parents and loses Amina. It is only much later, when she starts her university studies, that she is able to continue their relationship. But now, not only is their gay relationship a danger, it is exacerbated by the taboo on any Igbo and Hausa contact. In utterly realistic prose the writer minutely describes the hardships that befall Ijeoma as her material conditions deteriorate and she is forced to exchange her middle-class student status for a menial position in a household. She finds herself forced into marriage as the only means of survival and eventually falls pregnant. It is in some ways a Dickensian tale of endurance and suffering which the main character endures, and somehow survives. Almost magically, our heroine manages to overcome most of the obstacles to her happiness and finds a kind of acceptable solution to the situation – sexually, personally and socially. She overcomes the righteous Christianity that has been drilled into her by her mother. Instead she finds a clarity of vision that enables her to understand the relationship between hatred and persecution on the one hand and belief in the self and moral awareness on the other. A beautiful, thoughtful and thought-provoking book.

The Annie bus

The last Franschhoek Culture Vulture outing of 2016 was to Artscape to see a production of Annie. The bus was bursting at the seams with 20 keen theatre goers and refreshments to sustain them through the rigors of an evening’s entertainment. Franschhoek festive season palates were suitably catered for with Leopard’s Leap Cap Classique and wines. There were cheers all round for more than 5 years of bussing to the performing arts. Picnic food by The Good Food & Co ensured that no-one on the bus went hungry. Annie was a marvel of musical production. The singers were well chosen for their talent, not to mention their ability to execute their choreographed moves faultlessly. The dancers were a joy in everything they did and the seven young girls who played the orphans simply stole the audience’s hearts. The Franschhoek group had booked most of Row Y for the show from where they enjoyed a good line

of vision and applauded enthusiastically. After the show they made their way back to the bus in front of the theatre and settled down for the trip home. There were sighs of relief that Manzel was doing the driving and that he handled the Davids Transport bus safely and professionally. If you would like to receive information on future outings, please send your name, email address and cell phone number to news@ franschhoektatler.co.za

XXX The Return Of Xander Cage

27 January

Franschhoek Tatler

Music Alchemy James Stewart

The perfect pop song

Dadadadaah. Four iconic notes scribed by Ludwig von Beethoven in the first movement of his 5th symphony are indelibly etched onto the consciousness on first listen. Written between 1804 and 1808 it’s stood the test of time. While you’ll find ‘Beethoven’s 5th’ on the ‘classical’ shelf we’re talking ‘pop’ music of the highest order here. The rules of pop writing, arguably written by LVB himself, decree that the listener should be led to the good bit – that earworm that hooks you in for more within forty seconds of the opening note. Don’t bore us, get to the chorus! Ludwig serves up a fully formed musical idea together with all the drama and intrigue inside of a world-beating seventeen seconds. Sit down Paul, John, Ringo and George. You were beaten to the perfect pop song punch by a century and a half. Sans lyrics. We (still) love you. Yeah, yeah, yeah! Anyway, what IS ‘pop music’? It could be described as more commercial, ephemeral and accessible by design than, say, jazz, folk and classical music. It is intended for popular consumption and disposable by nature. To be feted this week and thrown out with the rest of the old stuff to make way for the shiny and new. There are

hits and there are misses. And most of them miss. So we have got to doff our caps to those artists and composers who managed to buck the trend of decay and, like lightning in a bottle, have managed to at least once capture both the immediate hook of pop with credible craftsmanship to create evergreen pop classics (see what I did there?). Songs like ‘Penny Lane’ by the Beatles and ‘Message in a Bottle’ by the Police instantly grab while also belying a depth and layering of storytelling and musicianship that offers the listener a little more on each play. Is this craftsmanship extinct? Irrelevant? Have the gatekeepers of radio and television decided that we no longer need to be challenged in any way? Like Pink Floyd suggested, we are being amused to death. Would it surprise you to know that the bulk of the ‘popular’ music we hear today is written by a shadowy few? Heard of Max Martin? Never mind, many haven’t. But you’ve heard his songs. He’s the grand wizard of the pop illuminati who has written more number one and top 10 pop hits than he has granted interviews. He’s made bank with The Weekend, Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Bon Jovi, NSync, Kelly Clarkson, James Blunt, Justin Bieber… the list goes on and on. Packaging is everything now. Make ‘em famous on Idols or America’s Got Talent, the factory for shiny and slick vessels into which perfectly formulated songs are poured. These slip over the airwaves in bytes and bits into your ear for long enough for you to login to iTunes and drop that dollar. It’s very clever, no doubt. But it can’t last. Can it?

Cape Wine Auction 2017 10 & 11 February 2017

La Garonne at the Anthonij Rupert Wyne Estate will host the Cape Wine Auction

Get ready for one of SA’s most talked about and prestigious wine industry charity auctions. Regarded as the most extraordinary international wine event to be hosted in South Africa, the Cape Wine Auction 2017 takes place on 10 and 11 February. It’s the perfect excuse to claim your stake in a money-can’tbuy experience and raise funds for a good cause at the same time. Prominent wine aficionados from around the globe, hosted by some of South Africa’s iconic winemakers, will be invited to make a considerable contribution in aid of charity when the bidding opens. The überglamorous two-day affair will launch at the elegant La Motte Wine Estate in Franschhoek on Friday, 10 February, with the American Express Barrel Auction allowing guests the opportunity to bid on once-off, specially curated or limited wines, tasted directly from the barrel and presented by the winemaker. The luxurious lunch-time auction event will take place at the Anthonij Rupert Wyne Estate on Saturday, 11 February, and is sponsored by Nedbank Private Wealth. This global showcase of South African wines is committed to changing people’s lives through the powerful tool of education – from cradle to career.

The Cape Wine Auction Trust has been established with a clear mandate to raise funds for education in the winelands. To date the trust has assisted 22 beneficiaries. Leading high-profile wine industry personalities have been appointed as auction ambassadors who have collectively curated the auction lots. The lots are an impressive line-up of once-in-a-lifetime offerings including rare wine collections, as well as exclusive hand-selected local and international wine, gourmet and travel experiences. An auction guaranteed to be a social calendar highlight while also making a difference is one you don’t want to miss out on. For more information about the auction, its beneficiaries and the auction lots visit the auction website. A limited number of tickets have been made available to attend this exclusive event. Tickets are priced between R1 850 per person (access to and participation in the Friday night event only) and R5 000 per person (access to and participation in the Friday and Saturday events), and can be purchased directly from the Cape Wine Auction website. www.thecapewineauction.com/tickets

Grande Provence rolls out the barrel

G9 photography exhibition

Works by local photographer Paddy Howes will form part of a group exhibition at the Art B Gallery in Bellville from 25 January to 8 February 2017. This will be the first exhibition for The Group of Nine, or G9. The group was formed in 2011 when one of the members, who moved around regularly amongst some Boland photography clubs, came to the realization that there was a need amongst some club members to expand their development and activities into the wider field of contemporary creative/art photography. Paddy says, “We are a mixed bunch who meet each month and have the time and space to develop and evolve in our own unique way. I am showing a collection of five triptychs of my interpretation of ‘Tree, the spaces in between’. www.g9photo.co.za

‘Thelema Pines’ by Paddy Howes

Summer season at Moór Gallery

Moór Gallery will be hosting two exhibitions during the summer high season from 7 January to 5 February 2017. The first is a solo exhibition by Cape Town artist Louis Nel entitled ‘Chiaroscuro’. (Chiaroscuro is an oil painting technique, developed during the Renaissance, which uses strong tonal contrasts between light and dark to model forms, often to dramatic effect.) Nel’s sea- and landscapes are both ethereal and mystical, on the one hand, and intense, on the other. Born in Cape Town in 1973 Nel moved to Pretoria in 1985 and studied Fine Arts at the University of Pretoria. After travelling in Europe for a year he worked as a desktop publishing artist before moving back to Cape Town in 1996. He worked as a scenic painter and props person in the film industry until 2003 when he started painting professionally. Running concurrently with ‘Chiaroscuro’ is a group exhibition featuring works by several prominent South African artists combining different genres and categories of fine art from the traditional to the contemporary. Artists whose works are included in this exhibition are: Henk

Seascape by Louis Nel

Serfontein, Helena Hugo, Marinda Combrinck, Greta McMahon, Willem Pretorius, Diane McLean, Cedric Vanderlinden, Bretten–Anne Moolman, Peter Midlane, Greg Schultz ,Cobus van Bosch, Stephen Rosin, Peter van Straten, Anthony Harris, Annelie Venter, Brahm van Zyl, Juria le Roux, James de Villiers, Marinda du Toit, Rossouw van der Walt, Madelein Marincowitz, Mathew Brittan, Tracy Payne, Debbie Field, James McCallum, Des Kleineibst, Aidon Westcott ,Corlie de Kock, Skye Burns, Nhlanhla Dumakude Nhlapo, Marna Hattingh, Estelle Marais, Hubert Barichievy, JP Meyer, Diane Victor, Frikkie Eksteen, Jan Schutte, and Brett Williams. www.moorgalleryfranschhoek.co.za | 021 876 2616

Porcupine Ridge MTB race cranks it up Saturday, 28 January 2017, Bridge House School

New race routes will take in the Berg River Dam catchment area

25 February 2017

Celebrate the 2017 grape harvest with Grande Provence on Saturday, 25 February, when barrels of fun will be the order of the day. The annual Grande Provence Harvest Festival kicks off at 08h00 with coffee and freshly baked, farm-style muffins, before guests embark on a tractor ride, followed by grape picking, stomping, wine and grape tasting and a cellar tour. Live music and a lavish harvest table of signature dishes expertly prepared by Grande Provence Executive Chef Darren Badenhorst, showcasing the finest local produce, will round off the day of festivities. Tickets for the Grande Provence Harvest Day are R695 for adults and R350 for children under 12. Booking is essential. reservations@grandeprovence.co.za 021 876 8600 (Lizelle)

January 2017

Grape stomping fun

The 2017 running – or should that be cycling – of the Porcupine Ridge MTB Challenge, organised by the Franschhoek Lions, promises to propel the already popular event to new heights. Funds raised from this event are used for the Franschhoek Lions’ "First Sight" project, which provides free eye screening, eye care and cataract surgeries to help save the eyesight of local farm workers, as well as underprivileged and elderly members of the community. Those in the know say that the 3 new routes (54km, 36km & 12km) are bound to put the ‘mountain’ back in mountain bike riding! Jo Dobinson, from Biking in the Bosch, is the race ambassador and will be on course offering encouragement, guidance and skills. She’ll be back at the end of the race when she’ll give away a skills session with herself as part of the lucky draw. The water points will also offer something new. In particular, remember not to skip Water Point 2, where local chef and rider Neill Jewel of Bread & Wine Restaurant will be serving up some great rider

food. The on-site mechanic will also be on hand at this water point. Of course, those not taking part in the race (and the water) have to get to the water point locations! This is achieved courtesy of Williams Hunt Cape Town – the race’s official vehicle partner. Those awaiting the return of the riders at Bridge House School have not been forgotten either. The MC/commentator – Shaun Peters – will keep the vibe going and the updates flowing. Also flowing will be the complimentary Porcupine Ridge wines at the end of the race. Kids and non-riders will be able to feast on fare from great food stalls and, if they choose to do so, enjoy the jumping castle or swimming pool – the latter with lifeguards, although it sometimes seems the former also needs guarding! The first 100 pre-entries will each receive a bottle of Porcupine Ridge wines, while the first 250 riders over the line will receive a Porcupine Ridge t-shirt. Like and follow the race on Facebook at Porcupine Ridge MTB Challenge and remember to enter early. Once your entry is secure tweet to remind your friends (#porcupinemtb).

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

January Calendar 6, 13 January

Saturdays

Festive Friday Venue: La Petite Ferme Time: 16h00 to 18h00

6, 13, 20, 27 January Food and Wine Tasting Venue: La Motte Time: 10h00 to 11h00 Cost: R130 t0 R200 pp Booking: 021 876 8820 or tasting@la-motte.co.za

Franschhoek Village Market Breads, olives, ginger beer, pastries, plants, seedlings, breakfasts, coffee, crafts and more. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church Grounds. Time: 09h00 – 14h00 Parkrun Venue: Rickety Bridge, Time: 08h00, Cost: Free, Register: www.parkrun.co.za

Sundays

12 January Full Moon Picnic Venue: Boschendal Time: 18h00 Cost: Various Bookings: reservations@ boschendal.co.za or 021 870 4274

Yoga Class with Danielle Rittel Venue: The Artemis Barn. Time: 08h00 to 09h00. Cost: R80 pp

Hard

Alcoholics Anonymous Contact 021 433 2709 or 073 125 0188 (Jeffrey)

Backgammon Club Meets All welcome. Own board not required. Venue: Taki’s Place. Time: 19h00. Info: Graeme Oliver - graeme @ poachedrhino. org or 072 815 8209

Food and Wine Tastings Venue: La Motte Tasting Room. Time: 10h00 to 11h00. Cost: R130 pp. Bookings: tasting@lamotte.co.za or 021 876 8820

Very hard 1

Uniting Reformed Church: Sunday service: 09h30. Minister: Dr Shaun Burrows, 021 876 2632. All visitors most welcome . Shofar Christian Church: Sunday Services: 09h00 English at 7 Lambrechts St 18h00 Afrikaans at Franschhoek Rugby Klub, Groendal. Ps Theuns Pauw 021 876 3348. All welcome!

Roman Catholic Church: Mass every 2nd Saturday of the month at the Methodist Church, Bagatelle Rd, Fhk. 073 488 6816 Trinity Church: Anglican

8 9

4 8

Very easy

NG Kerk Franschhoek: Sondagdienste 09h30. Geen aanddiens meer nie. Ds Peet Bester. 021 876 2431.

Tuesdays

Fridays 8

Church Services

1 8

5 9 2 8 3 1 4 7 6

Easy

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4 2 8 3 6 1 7 5 9

6 7 3 4 5 9 1 8 2

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7 6 5 1 2 3 8 9 4

2 4 3 5 1 9 8 7 6

8 4 1 9 6 7 2 5 3

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Communion Service Sundays 10h00. Weekday Communion with Prayers Wednesdays 10h00. All services at L’Ermitage Chapel. Fr Gavin Mitchell (083 799 0726) St George’s Anglican Church Groot Drakenstein. Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Rector Fr Joe Humbles – 073 560 3566 Franschhoek Methodist Church: Sunday service 09h00 – all welcome. Rev Nuno Vergueiro 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509. Contact person: 021 876 2510 or 083 287 5756 New Apostolic Church: Le Roux Weg, Franschhoek.Sundays 09h00, Wednesdays 19h30. Rector: Charles Leibrandt

Sport

Fhk Cycling Club Outrides Regular road rides on Saturday mornings from BP garage to Stellenbosch/Jonkers and back (75 kms) followed by coffees. Meet at 08h00 winter months, 07h00 in summer. To check timings during shoulder seasons contact Paul Barkley 083 302 9096

Jyotish Vedic Astrology Robert Rittel

Aries, 21 March – 19 April: Mars has moved into Pisces and will make you more sensitive than usual. You may shrink from people who are overbearing and domineering. This can make you feel less confident than at other times. Power demands subjection, but if you cannot obtain power by conquest, win it by surrender. Taurus, 20 April – 20 May: Venus is also entering Pisces and creates an exaltation of creative imagination and is helpful in all artistic work or design. The shadow side of this transit is that you pour out a great deal of energy and attention on people who are wasting your time. By rising above their facts, you touch reality. Gemini, 21 May – 20 June: Mercury has been retrograding for the last 2 weeks and will move forward by 10 January. Retrograding Mercury is a time of readjusting and rethinking of circumstances which give you problems. Those who make a virtue out of their faults will struggle to take themselves to task. Cancer, 21 June – 22 July: Art without beauty, poetry without inspiration, music without feeling, science without reason, philosophy without logic, religion without devotion, and mysticism without ecstasy are like a lake without water. The mind is its own question and it is its own answer. Leo, 23 July – 22 August: With the Sun in Capricorn, Leos have to analyze their expectations and self-dependence. If one lacks understanding, one is poor with all the goods of the world one possesses. It is the revelation of understanding which is the true riches. Contentment will raise you above the strife of worthless things. Virgo, 23 August – 22 September: The primal impulse towards the skilful use of detached service, which is concerned only with what is needed, does not

Hard

1 5 6 2 3 7 9 8 4

9 2 8 6 4 5 1 3 7

4 7 3 8 1 9 5 2 6

2 6 7 5 9 4 8 1 3

8 4 5 3 6 1 7 9 2

3 1 9 7 8 2 4 6 5

5 3 2 9 7 8 6 4 1

7 9 4 1 2 6 3 5 8

6 8 1 4 5 3 2 7 9

8 5 9 3 4 6 7 2 1

ACCOUNTANTS

Tax Shop

Magic Sudoku 3

4 9 6 1 5 7 2 8 3

5 3 2 4 6 8 9 7 1

1 2 5 8 3 6 7 9 4

6 4 7 9 1 5 3 2 8

3 8 9 7 4 2 5 1 6

9 7 3 5 8 4 1 6 2

8 6 1 2 7 3 4 5 9

2 5 4 6 9 1 8 3 7

c ⃝2005-2016 http://www.PrintSudoku.com

8 3 5 1 7 6 2 9 4

1 4 9 2 3 5 7 8 6

ATTORNEYS

Susan Charlesworth Snipelisky & Killian BURGLAR ALARMS

021 876 3308

7 3 4 9 1 2 8 5 6

2 4 5 1 8 7 9 6 3

3 8 7 6 9 5 4 1 2

9 6 1 4 2 3 5 7 8

4 9 3 5 6 1 2 8 7

5 1 2 8 7 9 6 3 4

6 7 8 2 3 4 1 9 5

Boland Bridge Club Franschhoek Tennis Club Franschhoek Trust & RPA Grt. Drak Games Club Lions Stellenbosch Masonic Lodge (Chris) Franschhoek Rotary Club Franschhoek Probus Club

021 876 3031 082 557 0278 021 876 3460 021 874 1906 021 876 3775 072 211 9991 082 773 9217 021 876 3179

Franschhoek IT Services Solid IT Solutions

082 356 0226 084 015 8808

COMPUTER SERVICES

2 6 7 8 9 4 1 3 5

4 1 2 6 8 3 5 7 9

6 9 3 5 2 7 8 4 1

7 5 8 9 4 1 3 6 2

3 2 6 4 5 8 9 1 7

9 7 1 3 6 2 4 5 8

5 8 4 7 1 9 6 2 3

Solution of Sudoku #4087

Franschhoek Electric Rensburg Electrical

082 823 7119/021 876 3640 021 876 2120/083 309 2923

Andrew Schmidt Burger Excavations

021 876 4431/082 972 5755 072 3408518

EXCAVATIONS

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Franschhoek Pharmacy Franschhoek Health Club HOUSE & GARDEN

Clock Repairs Lighting & Accessories Paarl Pool Services Ria Pools (Franschhoek)

Marelise Rester

021 872 3530

OPTOMETRIST

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Claire Horn PLUMBERS

021 876 4741 021 876 4234/082 582 1029

Franschhoek Plumbing

021 876 3759

Hospice Library

021 876 3085 021 808 8406

PUBLIC SERVICES

028 840 1716 021 876 3640 021 872 0747/083 658 4944 021 876 2612/072 347 5355 021 876 3921 021 876 3025

Franschhoek Photolab

021 876 2261 021 876 3310

Franschhoek Photolab PostNet

PHOTOGRAPHIC

021 876 2592/072 402 9469 083 250 0943/021 876 2084

Pepler Alarms

INTERNET ACCESS

021 876 2676

CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS

Very hard

1 2 6 7 5 8 3 4 9

Useful Numbers

ELECTRICAL

7 1 8 3 2 9 6 4 5

ask for recognition. If you can say something without saying, you are better not saying and if you can do something without doing, you are better not doing. Libra, 23 September – 22 October: Nothing comes into your life that is not a reflection of something within yourself. Librans need to attain emotional equilibrium through relationships. Conscious awareness of motivation and where those feelings are coming from will allow a choice to be made. Incorporate the new point of view which is represented by others. Scorpio, 23 October – 21 November: It is an atavistic understanding that in Scorpio the constellation of hidden forces or darkness is where the deepest roots of creativity lays. The metaphors of conception, death and rebirth are all depths which bring back an awareness of the purpose of its Being. Sagittarius, 22 November – 21 December: The soul in Sagittarius is a free spirit who ranges far and wide in his search for meaning. The synthesis of instinct and rational thinking is capable of creating the spontaneous, intuitional leap in to the unknown which pulls ever onward. Paying lip-service to ethics makes that potential a hollow shell. Capricorn, 22 December – 19 January: With the Sun here, Capricorns can draw on internal strength, resilience and discipline. It establishes inner authority which expresses externally in leadership. That leadership needs spiritual vision, or the inflexibility of principles will create poor leadership. Aquarius, 20 January – 18 February: The ego identity is often vulnerable in this sign and frequently creates a great deal of push and pull between self needs and awareness of the larger reality. The Aquarian must learn how to establish an ego which serves him and others equally. Pisces, 19 February - 20 March: The asterism of femininity and water is characteristically related to preservation principles. The prime function of the female is to procreate, to nourish the seed till the appropriate time for a new birth. That is also the quality of water, which sustains and preserves life. For a consultation contact Robert at 073 312 1265 or robert.vedicastrology@gmail.com

Franschhoek Tennis Club Social tennis is played at the Franschhoek Tennis Club on Fridays from 08h30 and on Sundays and Public Holidays from 09h00. During June, July and August starting times are 30 mins later. For more information contact 021 876 4184.

Magic Sudoku

Medium

Huguenot Memorial Museum Post Office Welfare (ACVV) SPCA

021 876 2532 021 876 2342 021 876 2670 021 876 4808

Bridge House School Franschhoek High School Groendal Primary School Groendal Secondary School Wes-Eind Primary School Dalubuhle Primary School

021 874 8100 021 876 2079 021 876 2448 021 876 2211 021 876 2360 021 876 3957

Franschhoek Storage

021 876 2174

Info Office Winelands Experience

021 876 3603 021 876 4042

SCHOOLS

STORAGE

TOURIST INFORMATION & SERVICES

TRANSPORT GOODS

Gerald Fourie VETERINARY

021 876 2940/082 821 5234

Huguenot Animal Clinic Surgery (pm only) Emergency

021 876 4278 021 876 2504 082 577 9900

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Stellenbosch Fire Dept. (Buildings on fire) 021 808 8888 Cape Winelands Distr.Muni. (Bush & veld fires) 021 887 4446 021 886 9244 Police 10111/021 876 8061 Eskom 086 003 7566 Neighbourhood Watch 083 493 7778 Omnipage Farm Watch 021 852 3318 Plaaswag 021 876 2346 N1, N2 & R300 Emergency number: 021 946 1646 DENTISTS

Dr Schalk du Plessis Dr Rob Hammer

021 876 3070 021 876 2634

Dr Karin Eksteen Dr Shelley Hellig Dr Alexander Heywood Dr Hannes Van der Merwe

021 876 4622 021 871 1063 021 876 2474 021 876 2304

DOCTORS

EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONSE

Medicare EMR MUNICIPALITY

074 363 7744/021 876 4316

(Ward 1) Councillor Frazenburg (DA) (Ward 2) Councillor Petersen (DA) (Ward 3) Councillor Manuel (DA) (Ward 4) Councillor Johnson (DA) Municipality (Office Hours) Municipality (afternoon only) Municipality 24hr Service

021 808 8490 082 404 5055 074 686 2364 021 808 8019 021 808 8700 021 808 8890 021 808 8700

Franschhoek Tatler

Smalls BOOK BINDING AND BOOK REPAIRS. Contact John 021 876 4129 or john@thearmchair explorer.co.za PROFESSIONAL POOL SERVICE REQUIRED? Keep it local! Get a quote. Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 EXCESS BOOKS? Shelves creaking, moving house or just thinning out your collection? Contact John Hicks 021 876 4129 PET-SITTER/HOUSE-SITTER/ CARETAKER: I am a responsible, mature woman who adores animals. I can also supervise domestic staff, pool/garden maintenance, car care, etc. You can trust me with your precious pets & belongings. Franschhoek only. Contact Sue at 083 270 9555 LOCAL SPARKY: Here to help with your installations, maintenance, gate motors & electrical repairs. No job too small. Please call for favourable quote. Jenowin. 081 071 4637. References available. CHANGING TO A SALT WATER SYSTEM? Let us advise & quote for you! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 TO LET: 2 bed, 1 bath flat in village @ R8000 p.m. | 2 bed, 1 bath farm cottage @ R8500 p.m. | 2 bed, 2 bath farm cottage @ R10 500 p.m. (Farm accommodation including water & lights) | Storage containers @ R1000 p.m. | Storage in town R2500 / R4500 p.m. All one year leases. Contact John 082 3744 652

PRIVATE TUTORING: Scholastic help Grades 1 – 9. I completed NILD, American qualification for assessment / addressing of learning difficulties, in SA known as Brain Dynamics. Did home schooling for 11 years. Prior experience. Contact Wilma 078 475 2710 wilmabotha1962@gmail.com ASSISTANCE OFFERED: I am a caring, friendly, older woman who can assist you in your house, guest house, shop or office. I can run errands or drive you around. Available afternoons, evenings or weekends. 083 270 9555. STORAGE SPACE AVAILABLE: 1st Floor units, various sizes, priced between R500 & R1,000 per month. Contact Fiona 021 876 3171 DO YOU STILL HAVE THAT POOL LEAK? Loosing water all the time? Let us quote and take care of the problem! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 TRUSTWORTHY, friendly, mature lady offering home-sitting / child care / pet-sitting/ general assistance. Contact Wilma 078 475 2710 wilmabotha1962@gmail.com JOB WANTED: (Driver Code 10/ Restaurant/Hotel/General Business) I am a 27-year old churchgoing Malawian. I live in Franschhoek. I am a hardworking, reliable, intelligent and honest man .I speak and write excellent English. References available. Contact 063 320 3052 EMPLOYMENT WANTED: I am a 27 yearold, churchgoing Malawian. I live in Franschhoek and am a hard -working, reliable, intelligent, honest man. I speak and write excellent English. References available. Contact 076 484 9294 / 063 320 3052 Cassie Aaron Lajab

HOUSEKEEPER/CLEANER: I’m Promise Msowoya, a 30-year-old Malawian female. I am looking for a job as a housekeeper or cleaner. I’m in excellent health and speak English,Chewa & Tumbuka. I can start any time. Call me on 078 965 7776 JOB WANTED: I’m Stella Sydreck Chibambo, a married Malawian female. I have Grade 12 and 3 years working experience. Reference: Jane 078 72 77183 (Holden Manz Guest House). Call me on 083 941 5619 or 073 878 3008 GARDENER/DOMESTIC WORK: Wisdom Phiri, a Malawian, is looking for work as a gardener or domestic worker. He is trustworthy, punctual and hardworking. Reference Hugh McGuinness 079 806 0976. Call Wisdom on 063 118 1470. RE-FIBRE GLASS YOUR POOL in any colour you like. Call RiaPools for a quote: 072 347 5355 LOOKING FOR THAT SPECIAL BOOK and can’t find it? Call John at the Armchair Explorer, we will source it for you. Contact John Hicks 021 876 4129 EMPLOYMENT WANTED: Are you looking for a well-mannered man with professional driving experience? Have 15 years’ experience, computer literate, knowledge of cooking SA dishes and loves baking. Call or Whatsapp 073 859 9798 POOL PUMP PROBLEMS? Noise? We quote and help you out! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 APPLE TECH SUPPORT: For iPhone, iPad or Mac support, training or setup services call John on 081 361 7228.

☎

FRANSCHHOEK’S

FOR BUILDING • GARDENING • RENOVATING Copyright: All rights reserved, reproduction in whole or part prohibited. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the editor. Publication of editorial or advertising matter does not imply endorsement or warranty in respect of goods or services therin described.

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January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

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Franschhoek Tatler

January 2017

Agricultural security estate forges ahead Pearl Valley & Stefan Antoni join forces

Entrance to the Fransche Hoek Agricultural Estate

Today’s Fransche Hoek Agricultural Estate (FHAE) is dynamic and thriving – in sharp contrast to a few years ago when the struggling property development had to be bailed out by the Development Bank of Southern Africa. The Tatler recently attended an information session on the estate and can report the following: An accelerated building programme has been implemented to complete the estate. 56 of 93 erven are now built up, or under construction and owners who don’t start construction within 6 months of transfer are subject to penalties. All plans have to be approved by the estate’s architect. A new Estate Manager has been appointed. Johanita Henning holds an MBA from the University of Stellenbosch and has some 20 years property management experience. The estate’s balance sheet is strong and its operations are strongly cash flow positive. This despite the lowest comparative levy (R3950 p.m.) for this type of estate. Excess cash will be used to finance capital upgrades on the estate. (Planning for a major main entrance upgrade is currently underway.) All common agricultural land that forms part of the estate is now owned by the FHAE HOA and an additional parcel of adjacent fynbos land has been acquired. Here and elsewhere on the estate hiking/ walking trails have been created. Farming and landscaping operations are flourishing. Mycelium Agricultural Enterprises (Pty) Ltd (65% owned by FHAE, 25% owned by Fremco Trust, 10% owned by the CEO - Natie

Ferreira) provides farming and landscaping services to the estate and individual home owners, and business and employment opportunities on the estate to previously disadvantaged members of the Franschhoek community. Agricultural activities on the estate now include vineyards, olives, chickens and vegetable gardens. A new fire prevention and response plan has formulated and implemented. Amongst others a firebreak has been constructed along the estate’s mountainside boundary and firefighting equipment purchased. Some property owners are even getting ready to undergo firefighting training. Security infrastructure (technology and processes) is constantly being upgraded and there have been no significant infringements for several years. The relationship with the Fremco Trust, which originated from the 1998 Franschhoek Social Accord, has been transformed. In addition to the 0.25% of resale transactions that funds the trust, the HOA now also contributes more than R100 000 annually in bursaries for deserving students - in return for the estate’s exclusive use in perpetuity of a portion of land previously allocated to Fremco by the estate’s developer, Frandevco. Things are going so well that the estate’s Home Owners Association (HOA) Board confidently states that “We are on track to achieving our mission to become the most sought after agricultural security estate in South Africa by 2020.” Judging by their progress so far it seems safe to assume that they’ll achieve their mission.

With money tight, follow these tips before investing in real estate

At this time of year people often think about buying property, perhaps their first home or maybe an upgrade or downgrade. With the economy as tight as a tightrope right now, money really matters and thinking carefully about what, where and for how much you want to buy, is now more important than ever. Samuel Seeff, chairman of the Seeff Property Group, says investing in property is the single biggest financial transaction that you will ever conclude and should always be done with great care. There’s more to consider than you think. For starters, property is an active, rather than a passive investment, and comes with financial risk, he says. Although buying your own home should first and foremost be about securing your future and creating a foundation upon which to build a life and future for yourself and your family, you should also make sure that you are a making a sound investment. Whether it is your primary home or a second property such as a rental or land in a newly developing area, you should always do your homework thoroughly to mitigate the risk. Consider the downside upfront, says Seeff. When the market turns for example, you might find yourself in a tight financial spot and have to sell. Think about this when you buy: how hard will it be to sell the property if it comes down to it? Consider whether you have the time and financial means for this type of investment. If you are purely looking for an investment, then a property fund might be the better choice, especially if you are a novice or first time buyer. Once you have decided that you are going to take the step and invest in bricks and mortar, be sure to keep these eight golden rules in mind: Location, location, location: This old adage will always be the primary driver of demand, prices and property values. Research, research, research. Before you sign on the dotted line, chat to local area agents and get the vital statistics and information about the area. Pay a fair price: Do not pay more than fair market value unless you are sure that you are financially secure enough to hold onto the property until it starts to accumulate value. Price growth tends to track economic growth quite closely, so if the economy stalls, so do prices. Neighbourhood: Do a thorough due diligence on the neighbourhood and area, especially if you are

not familiar with it. Make sure that it is a viable area, more so, if you are looking at a second or investment property. Ensure there are good services, roads and communications connectivity for aspects such as internet and satellite television for example. Street savvy: Don’t stop with the neighbourhood, but also check out the street (or complex) to ensure you are buying in the right part of the suburb. Be sure to check out the prices in your road (or complex) to compare that you are not paying more. Guard against paying a high price for an overcapitalised home. Facilities and amenities: The better the facilities and amenities in the area, the more in demand the property is likely to be when it comes to either selling or renting it out. A good transport network is important, as are schools and then secondary facilities such as shops and other services. Security: This has become an important consideration for neighbourhoods and complexes. The more secure the property and area, the more attractive it is for buyers and tenants. Check out whether there is a Neighbourhood Watch or similar group and ensure that the property itself is adequately secured and insured. Capital value growth and yields: You obviously want to invest in an area where property values grow at least in line with the market average, preferably at an above average rate. If you are investing in a rental, then you will want to check out the rental returns in the area as it is important to budget for any shortfalls. Ensure also that you build fat into your budget for all the hidden costs associated with a rental property. Leisure and attractions: If you are thinking about investing in a holiday rental, then leisure facilities and attractions are important. The closer the property is situated to attractions such as the beach, river or game reserve for example, the more in demand it will be. Consider who your tenants will be and put yourself in their shoes. Where do they want to stay when they book for a holiday for example? Seeff concludes by saying that South African property is an excellent investment and history has shown that it is resilient and provides excellent capital value growth, provided you do your homework and invest in the right property in the right area and at the right price. www.seeff.com

Val de Vie Estate presents a unique design offering from one of South Africa’s most celebrated architects, Stefan Antoni, and ARRCC – part of the SAOTA Architectural firm. Property investors are invited to pair one of two exclusive designs from the Stefan Antoni Signature Series with any developer plot in Pearl Valley – Val de Vie Estate’s premium neighbourhood. Pearl Valley was named by international rating agency New World Wealth (NWW) as South Africa’s leading residential estate in 2015. Developer plots each come with their own distinctive view of the Simonsberg or Drakenstein Artist’s rendering of the dining room of one of the Stefan Antoni Signature Series homes Mountains and are situated aluminium external windows, doors and shutters, around the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, one Belgotex carpets, Daikin inverter air conditioners and of the top ranked golf courses in the country. a fully automated irrigation system. The character of these homes bear the Stefan Along with The Valley Restaurant, a beautiful Antoni / ARRCC signature of crafting captivating, eatery that features an impressive selection of awardcontemporary interiors that incorporate the beauty of winning wines, Pearl Valley amenities include the the surrounding landscape. Clerestory windows and member’s lounge and halfway house, a clubhouse, the glass sliding doors invite natural light and maximise Breath Spa & Hair Salon, tennis courts, a resident’s views of the exquisite surrounding mountainside. pool, a spacious gym and a bar from which to enjoy The home’s open-plan layout, centred on the indoor sundowners. braai area, has been created to nurture quality family This sought-after estate caters for a diverse range living and make entertaining easy. Natural materials, of home buyers with stylish, modern homes offering such as exposed timber rafters, off-shutter concrete the ultimate in secure, country living with a host and natural stonework, contrast with the crisp, clean of amenities – all this less than 15 minutes from white plastered walls and modern joinery to create a Stellenbosch and under an hour from Cape Town. pleasing balance. Furthermore, the surrounding area not only boasts Comments Ryk Neethling, Marketing Director at world-class restaurants, a plethora of wine estates, Val de Vie: “The essence of these houses are aligned outdoor activities and outstanding natural beauty, but to our priorities as an estate – luxury living, close to is also dotted with excellent schools, superb medical nature, with a range of excellent amenities on one’s facilities and the University of Stellenbosch, making it doorstep, as well as world-class security and the an attractive setting in which to set up home. freedom to enjoy one’s surroundings.” Neethling concludes: “This luxury design offering Investing in one of the ARRCC plot and allows buyers to build their dream home, reflecting plan developments at Pearl Valley comes at the the superb beauty of the surrounding Cape Winelands comparatively low price of between R7.7 million for a whilst taking advantage of the best South Africa has single story 350m2 house and land or R9.7 million for to offer in terms of design, lifestyle and security.” a 475m2 house and land. The property will include www.pearlvalley.co.za | 021 867 8000 a swimming pool, wine cellar, built-in braai area and a gas fireplace, as well as superior finishes such as

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

January 2017

FRANSCHHOEK

R27 000 000 411894 6

Garages 3

MAGNIFICENT STATEMENT HOME IN LIFESTYLE SECURITY ESTATE. This truly magnificent property occupies two portions of the La Bella Vita Security Estate, which is situated in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Set in 3.2386 ha of landscaped gardens with own dam and vineyards this 6 bedroom masterpiece commands majestic views of the Simonsberg and Drakenstein Mountain ranges. Offering a double volume palatial entrance hall with sweeping two sided staircase, gourmet kitchen with walk-in fridge room, family room with surround sound, double volume dining room, entertainer size lounge and undercover patio, staff quarters, three garages and two storerooms. There are 4 luxurious en suite bedrooms inside the main house and two outside guest cottages. The high quality finishes include underfloor heating, gas fireplaces, air-conditioning, heated marbelite pool and feature garden lighting. The estate has easy access to Cape Town via the N1 and the towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are all but a short distance away. Famous wine farms including Rupert & Rothschild, Vrede en Lust, Boschendal, Babylonstoren, Glen Carlou are all in close proximity. If you are looking for something that is truly special then look no further.

PEARL VALLEY

R10 499 000

Garages 2

R12 000 000

354519

412736

SUPERBLY LOCATED IN THE PRESTIGIOUS PEARL VALLEY GOLF ESTATE. This 4 bedroom all en-suite home has been built to entertain with spacious open plan lounge, dining room, family room and kitchen. All 4 bedrooms have sliding doors leading outside. Entertainment areas lead to an undercover patio with wooden deck, pool, built-in braai and double-volume ceiling with wooden beams and sliding doors. The home offers built in surround sound and flat screen TV, dining room, family room with fireplace and kitchen with scullery/laundry area. The master bedroom with large dressing room and quality fitted bathroom overlooks the patio and stunning views. A truly elegant home awaits you!

FRANSCHHOEK

R9 500 000

411800 UNIQUE LIFESTYLE OPPORTUNITY IN A SECURE ESTATE. This stunning 12.8 Ha piece of land situated within the Bella Vita Security Estate offers an immense opportunity to built an envied lifestyle home with equestrian stables and paddocks. The ERF commands majestic breath-taking views of the Simonsberg and Drakenstein Mountain ranges. Famous wine farms including Rupert & Rothschild, Vrede en Lust, Boschendal, Babylonstoren, Glen Carlou are all in close proximity. The estate has easy access to Cape Town via the N1 and the towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are all but a short distance away.

AUGUST HOUSE. This prime commercial building is well positioned in the heart of the high street in Franschhoek. Beautiful views with lots of potential. Upstairs are 4 furnished, income producing bachelor apartments with a real village lifestyle and downstairs are 3 retail stores . Exciting opportunity to own rare commercial space in Franschhoek. Very high rental demand. EXCLUDING VAT.

FRANSCHHOEK

R5 950 000

Garages 1

WEB REF: 340634

SCINTILLATING TRANQUIL RIVER SETTING. Situated within a couple of minutes drive from the village on the banks of the Franschhoek River this jewel of a plot is just waiting to be developed into a lifestyle wine and olive estate. With extensive views of the surrounding mountains this plot offers 6,43ha of prime land with borehole and river pumping rights.

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

DOMAIGNE DES ANGES

R22 500 000 384284 5

Garages 2

UNIQUE COUNTRY CHATEAU A private and unique home which offers unrivalled accommodation on an exclusive estate in the heart of Franschhoek. Exceptional accommodation includes 5 bedroom suites and wonderful entertaining areas along with double garage and separate flatlet. Domaine Des Anges is an extremely sought after security estate and also boasts fabulous communal facilities to include a clubhouse with gym, tennis court and swimming pool.

FRANSCHHOEK

R2 300 000

412606

FABULOUS BIJOU GETAWAY IN Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ERMITAGE. A charming and beautifully appointed one bedroom apartment in the popular Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ermitage complex. The flat benefits from a fabulous covered verandah at the rear and a balcony to the front with gorgeous mountain and lake views. A stunning and secure oasis with benefits of parking and a communal pool.

FRANSCHHOEK

R995 000

412456

POTENTIAL, POTENTIAL, POTENTIAL. A spacious property well located on La Provence Street in Groendal. This house benefits from a large stand and flexible accommodation with undercover parking. Currently used as an office, but with all the amenities needed for a family home.

FRANSCHHOEK

R2 500 000

Garages 1

401909

EXCEPTIONAL VILLAGE APARTMENT. Immaculate two bedroom apartment with garage secure off street parking & communal swimming pool in a well run block in the heart of the village. Excellent rental potential, both long term let and short term let.

FRANSCHHOEK

R5 100 000

Garages 2

WEB REF: 412598

FYNBOS HOME WITH A VIEW! A newly built home on the exclusive Fransche Hoek Estate. This house offers open plan reception space and kitchen leading to a fantastic large covered verandah with braai facilities and far reaching views. Three ensuite bedrooms, lawned garden and double garage. World class security estate.

Franschhoek Tatler

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

R15 400 p/m

Convenient and Central This central and convenient older home is situated one row back from the main road in the center town and is within easy walking distance of shops and restaurants. Comprising of 3 large bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, (mes) large lounge with period Oregon fireplace surround, dining room and entrance hall. The kitchen area is light and bright with a back door leading out to a double braai area and outside sitting / entertainment area. The large 1160sq mt stand allows for a large garden both at the back and the front of the house. This home also offers a comfortable sized bachelor flat with its own bathroom perfect to either rent out or be used for office space. There are stunning views of the mountains from the front patio, for those lovely summer evenings. Available from the 1st Of February 2017

Kate Hicks 079 068 2130 • kate.hicks@rawson.co.za

R 5 100 000 / Rental R27 000p/m

New 3 bedroom house for sale in a fynbos estate This newly built home is situated on the well-known Fransche Hoek Security Estate and will be ready for occupation February 2017. As you enter the house on the ground level it comprises of kitchen and lounge/dining room which are open plan with stacking doors that open up onto an expansive veranda/entertainment area that overlooks the valley with stunning views. The scullery is off the kitchen which is separate. The lower level comprises 2 bedrooms both en suite the main bedroom has a dressing room both rooms open out on the lawn with slidingdoors. On the mezzanine level is the 3rd bedroom en suite and separate to that is a large TV lounge / storeroom. The house has a double garage with automated doors. This Estate is known for their excellent security and is exceptionally well run.

Kate Hicks 079 068 2130 • kate.hicks@rawson.co.za Janice Hicks 072 991 6272 • janice.hicks@rawson.co.za

R7 900 000 + VAT

Stunning vacant land on the edge of the village This well positioned vacant land is a rare find with such close proximity to both the Village & Bridge House School makes it a prime investment. The land is approximately 3.2ha and was replanted with Pinotage vines in 1999. The 2016 production was 29.24 metric tons. Eskom supply is on the boundary of the property and Municipal water will be supplied to the property. Rates R1494.60

Janice Hicks 072 991 6272 • janice.hicks@rawson.co.za

Franschhoek Tatler

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY GROUP

REMAX.CO.ZA

January 2017

The Real Estate Leaders NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX

January 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

FRANSCHHOEK Office: 021 876 2100 â&#x20AC;˘ winelandsint@pamgolding.co.za

SOLE MANDATE

Ref# FWI1242424

Franschhoek / R7.2 million Bedrooms 4 / Bathrooms 3 / Garages 2 / A home with a heart! Offering four bedrooms and lovely reception areas including a private summer patio enclosed with safety American Shutters in a private garden with swimming pool. Doug Gurr 072 610 7208 / Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837 SOLE MANDATE

Ref# FWI1298054

SOLE MANDATE

Ref# FWI1294624

Franschhoek / R2.23 million

Franschhoek / R4.2 million

Spectacular 1000m2 fynbos erf, in the beautiful Fransche Hoek Estate. Breathtaking views within a tranquil and secure atmosphere.

Bedrooms 2 / Bathrooms 2 / Garages 1 / Parking 2 / Pretty property located in sought after La Petite Provence Estate. Perfect as a holiday home or full time residence.

Shelly Schoeman 083 301 8833

Shelly Schoeman 083 301 8833 SOLE MANDATE

Ref# FWI1271232

SOLE MANDATE

Ref# FWI1248338

Franschhoek / R19.5 million

Franschhoek / R8.5 million

Bedrooms 4 / Bathrooms 4 / Garages 4 / Parking 4 / Unique, beautiful home situated on 6.941m2 of land in the lovely Winelands Estate. Beautiful mountain views.

Bedrooms 4 / Bathrooms 4 / Parking 3 / Set in the exclusive Deltacrest Equestrian Estate, is this elegant, bright and spacious home.

Shelly Schoeman 083 301 8833

Doug Gurr 072 610 7208 / Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837 /PamGoldingProperties

pamgolding.co.za

@PamGoldingGroup

Franschhoek Tatler

FRANSCHHOEK

POA

January 2017

FRANSCHHOEK

R6 500 000

DE OUDE ZILVERMIJN - BOSCHENDAL FOUNDERS ESTATE. Entertaining is integral to the design of this family focused home which incorporates enormous kitchen with scullery, dining, living room and library within a large double-volume space leading to a veranda and poolside bar lounge with views towards Franschhoek. Includes 6 -bedrooms, kids TV lounge, a private courtyard patio with outdoor fireplace, an underground wine cellar and a mezzanine homework study area.A separate cottage with a home office and upstairs studio compliments the main house. Includes 6 garages, games room, 2 staff quarters, utility room and 3 outside storage rooms.

TRUE VILLAGE HOME WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF THE HIGH STREET. Open plan living areas create a seamless flow through the interiors and out into the garden beyond. A kitchen with separate scullery, a formal lounge, informal TV room and central dining area are ideal for family living. A wrap-around veranda ideal for outside entertaining overlooking garden and pool area.There are three, well proportioned, upstairs and an en-suite guest room downstairs. Two en-suite bathrooms (main & guest room) and a shared family bathroom complete this ideal family home.

Tom Clode +27 (0)79 955 3114 | Terry-Lee George +27 (0)82 650 9194

Tom Clode +27 (0)79 955 3114 | Terry-Lee George +27 (0)82 650 9194 WEB: 134653

WEB: 169892

FRANSCHHOEK

R12 500 000

GLORIOUS VICTORIAN PROPERTY. This Grand Lady of Franschhoek, has been artistically restored to present many original features from a time gone by with many hidden treasures beyond its low village walls and mature country garden. Deep wraparound verandas, large eat-in country kitchen, wooden floors and high ceilings are features of this home with its own vineyard block, private borehole and swimming pool. Features entrance hall, dining room and separate lounge with fireplaces in each, library, country-kitchen, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with separate toilets. A 4th bedroom and bar area has separate outside access. Also includes a double garage. Tom Clode +27 (0)79 955 3114 | Terry-Lee George +27 (0)82 650 9194

WEB: 170103

FRANSCHHOEK

R6 500 000

FRANSCHHOEK

R9 950 000

WELL-KNOWN HISTORIC PROPERTY, currently the home, studio and gallery of master potter David Walters. This landmark, in the historic quarter of Dirkie Uys street is claimed to have been one of the earliest village homes dating to around 1840 and, while renovated over the years, still presents as a period home with all it’s quirky and timeless features. With business rights linked to its current usage as a gallery & pottery on the ground floor and it’s upstairs conversion to the current owner’s home, this property offers many different redevelopment opportunities to future custodians. Set within a glorious 2500sqm parklike garden and bordering a natural stream, this property must be viewed to be fully appreciated. Tom Clode +27 (0)79 955 3114 | Terry-Lee George +27 (0)82 650 9194

WEB: 169137

FRANSCHHOEK

R6 995 000

CHARMING HOME ON LARGE PLOT EMBRACED BY MATURE GARDEN. Character cottage offers two bedrooms & two bathrooms with a generous open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area with double volume ceilings with exposed beams and feature wood-burning stove, separate scullery/laundry room, office and a double garage. North-facing garden with mature trees throughout including a number of yellow woods. True Franschhoek lifestyle property. Must be viewed.

GEORGIAN STYLE IN PRIME POSITION WITH STUNNING VIEWS. This property offers style and charm in a quiet avenue on Franschhoek’s urban edge. Double doors welcome you into an elegant open-plan space incorporating living, dining room and country kitchen.This leads to a covered verandah with glass stacking doors and views across the garden, pool, mountains and vineyards. Also on the ground floor is a large second bedroom with en-suite bathroom. Master bedroom suite upstairs has a private lounge/study and 2nd covered patio with gorgeous views.

Tom Clode +27 (0)79 955 3114 | Terry-Lee George +27 (0)82 650 9194

Tom Clode +27 (0)79 955 3114 | Terry-Lee George +27 (0)82 650 9194 WEB: 137275

WEB: 152010