The Newspaper – February Edition 2023

RAISE A GLASS & TOAST

South Africa’s renowned wine industry is celebrating a significant milestone - its 364th birthday.

February 2023 marks the 364th anniversary of the South African wine industry, as recorded in Jan van Riebeeck’s diary on 2 February 1659: “Today, praise be to God, wine was made for the first time from Cape grapes.”

Cape Town & the Western Cape is home to some of the world’s most bountiful vineyards and boasting numerous award-winning restaurants. Cape Town and the Western Cape is a gastronomic wonderland, with a history intrinsically tied to the vine.

Wesgro re-joined Great Wine Capitals global network in 2020. Founded in 1999, the Great Wine Capitals global network is the only wine body encompassing the so-called “old” and “new” worlds of wine.

South Africa is the only country in the world that can accurately pinpoint the exact date of origin of its wine industry, due to a diary entry from 2 February 1659. Since those first vines were planted, the South African wine region has grown to encompass some of the finest and best-known wines in the world.

From Sauvignon Blanc to Cabernet Franc and everything in between, vineyards spread over 665,000 acres have produced award-winning wines enjoyed across the globe.

To mark the occasion, many wineries throughout the country offer special tastings, sales, and other events in honour of the big birthday. Undoubtedly, these festivities will be a memorable way to commemorate 364 years of unbelievable success for South African wine.

Table Mountain ‘homecoming’ birthday visit

On 21 January 2023, Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company organised a special “homecoming” birthday celebration for David Bester, his first time visiting his former mountaintop home in almost 80 years. David Bester spent part of his formative years living in the Table Mountain Cableway House with his parents.

David’s newly married parents lived in the Cableway House on top of the mountain after his dad was appointed cable car operator in 1943. Two weeks after his birth, he lived with his parents in the Table Mountain Cableway House. He was also the first baby to travel up to the top of the mountain in the cable car. But by the age of eleven months, it was decided that it had become too dangerous to have a crawling toddler living on top of Table Mountain. This prompted his parents to leave their unusual mountaintop home.

David spent most of Saturday morning showing family members around the upper mountain plateau where he used to play as a toddler. He explained that his mom used to serve tea and sandwiches to visitors in what is now the Shop at the Top building.

“I have fond memories of my early days living on the mountain. Just imagine being a young toddler and exploring the natural beauty of the mountain. Table Mountain was my playpark. Sadly, I don’t have any photographs left over from those days, but it was a moving experience to again see my childhood home,” said Bester.

He added, “This was my first ever visit back to the mountain since those early days, and I thank the Cableway Company for assisting me and my family in making this “homecoming” journey a reality.”

Over the course of its nine decades of operation, the Cableway has undergone three upgrades. The first was the tiny car that Bester and his family would have used, then improvements in 1958, 1974, and most recently in 1997 with the introduction of the Rotairs, cars with rotating floors. Since it first began operating in 1929, the Cableway has carried over 30 million passengers to the top of Table Mountain.

Where to go on your birthday

Are you also always in search of something fun to do on or around the time of your birthday? Some of Cape Town’s biggest attractions are quite aware of this, and have made finding something to do easy. You can do one activity or all of them, the choice is all yours.

Table Mountain - One of the seven wonders of the world, Table Mountain offers some of the most beautiful views of Cape Town that you will ever experience. (You can redeem your free cable car ride by presenting your ID at the Table Mountain kiosk any day in the calendar month of your birthday month.)

Sky Hi Ride - For all the daredevils and adrenaline junkies out there - The Sky Hi Ride is just for you. The first of its kind in Africa, it is located on the 28th floor of the Hotel sky and has the breathtaking views of Cape Town City bowl. With one drop, this ride reaches up to 100km an hour and is about 4g’s. This free fall experience guarantees to be nothing less than exhilarating. (Free ride during the month of your birthday.)

Two Oceans Aquarium - The Two Oceans Aquarium has remained a firm family favourite. Offering hours of learning disguised as fun and entertainment, this fishy experience promises to have you coming back for more. You can explore the kelp forest, shark exhibit and penguin exhibit to mention a few. (To gain free admission to the Aquarium, you can claim this special birthday token on your birthday or 6 days thereafter.)

Galileo - Galileo offers great movies in beautiful settings, with plenty of opportunity for you to make memories with your friends and family. (Picnic and Drive-in options offer you freebie options during the week of your birthday.)

Photo: David Bester

Photo Credit: TMACC

Zeitz Mocca - Zeits Mocca, the museum of contemporary art in Africa, is situated at the V&A Waterfront in the Silo District. This art museum if the biggest of its kind for African art and promises to encourage those creative juices to flow. (Free access during the whole month of your birthday).

The World will meet in Cape Town this February!

Global leaders and experts will share strategic insights on how policy, investment and innovation can be combined to support the development of a green economy in Africa.

The 3-day deal-making platform will showcase investible African projects in both closed and open deal making environments. Connecting stakeholders to move the sector forward will be core to the objective of the Africa’s Green Economy Summit, taking place from 22–24 February 2023 at the Century City Conference Centre. Expert and keynote speakers on the programme are from South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, Côte d’Ivoire and the DRC.

As a platform, Africa’s Green Economy Summit will bring together investors, developers and governments, highlighting investment prospects that exist in the fields of green hydrogen, EVs and hybrid vehicles, energy storage, solar, hydro and wind energy, infrastructure development, urban sustainability as well as manufacturing.

The interactive gathering will be followed by further networking during an off-site day of experiential activities in true Cape Town style.

“One of GreenCape’s current projects is attracting electric vehicle manufacturing investment and to create a greenfield electric vehicle manufacturing industry in the Western Cape.

Traditionally, the Western Cape has not had an automotive manufacturing industry compared to Gauteng, the Eastern Cape and KZN. Therefore, we see the transition to electric vehicles as a means of creating this new industry and stimulating much-needed jobs and investments in the green economy in the Western Cape,” says Prian Reddy, from GreenCape - a green economy development agency in the Western Cape.

“The green economy isn’t a thing. It is the thing, right? It’s everything. The economy as a whole is making a shift towards green. You cannot produce things in an environmentally unfriendly manner anymore because the consumer just does not want to consume those things. It is embedded in everyday business; the way people just do business,” Jarrod Lyons, business development and marketing at the Atlantis SEZ (Special Economic Zone) in Cape Town, a developer of industrial property that houses green technology manufacturing.

Africa’s Green Economy Summit is part of the E-Fest Cape Town that will culminate in the Formula E 2023 Cape Town E-Prix race in the same week on 25 February 2023, hosted for the first time in Africa.

Get your tickets for the 2023 Cape Town E-Prix

The moment South African motorsport fans have been waiting for has arrived. The Cape Town E-Prix will take place on 25 February at the Greenpoint and Waterfront precinct. In the lead up to the race, Cape Town will host E-Fest Cape Town – a 10-day themed festival of activities and events showcasing e-mobility.

It serves as a celebration of Go Green Africa, a shared mission founded by organizations committed to playing a meaningful role in helping to accelerate Africa’s transition to a “Green Economy” in a just and inclusive way.

E-Fest Cape Town will consist of various activities advocating for electric mobility including: E-Fest Electric: an e-mobility festival featuring all things electric, EV’s, motorbikes, one-wheeler scooters, bicycles, and charging solutions. Africa’s Green Economy Summit (AGES): showcases and connects global capital with African Green Economy opportunities.

Cape Town E-Prix promises fast, exciting open-wheel street racing on a stunning new track in the Mother City with sustainability at its centre.

With thrills on and off the track, there’s plenty for fans and families to see and do.

The Allianz Fan Village is the centre of the fan experience at every race, with a variety of entertainment and activities for Formula E fans of all ages.

UK TV Show Pays Over £1-Million to Rent Villa in Franschhoek

British TV bosses are splashing out over one million pounds to hire a fabulous Franschhoek villa exclusively for five months, for the filming of the new Winter Love Island in South Africa. The much-anticipated details of the new Winter Love Island in South Africa has now been revealed, with the Ludus Magnus villa being named as the setting for the new series.

massage area, tree house with fast ziplines, a gym and a mountain bike track weaving through over 7000 fruit trees; 4-acre Shiraz vineyard, and 4 rescue donkeys and three resident springboks.

“The whole villa is totally 100% off the grid as it is powered by 266 solar panels and has its own boreholes and streams for water, so it is totally eco-friendly and just a cool place. When Love Island sought out Ludus Magnus it was for the owners like all their Christmas’s had come at once as it was a huge block booking from the middle of November to April 9 2023”

“They wanted Ludus for 5 months and at £8,000 a day for the whole villa that is a very cool £1.2m, but the TV company is bringing in their own upgrades as well to make it more spectacular.”

“There is a team of gardeners brought in to make it look even more tropical despite all the palm trees round the pool and the thousands of citrus trees already there at no cost to the owners.”

“There are carpenters and electricians building all sorts of new things for the show, and of course there will be cameras and microphones built everywhere inside and outside to capture everything.”

The debut Winter series, aired in Cape Town in 2020 and was won by Paige Turley and Finn Tapp who scooped the £50k prize but Covid-19 led to it being put on ice until now.

The stunning 5-star villa which will see contestants arriving in January is set in 25 stunning acres of a pristine wine valley just a couple of miles from tycoon Richard Branson’s flagship celebrity hotel. The 17-bed Ludus Magnus villa is named after the most prestigious ancient gladiatorial school in Rome, where fighters like those played by Hollywood legend Russell Crowe were trained to be killers.

And for the competitors in the new winter Love Island, the gladiatorial history will not be lost on them as they battle each other in the knockout series to see which couple are the last two left standing. And there will be plenty of sports on offer when the contestants are chauffeur driven in through the villa’s heavily guarded gates after the 50-minute drive from Cape Town airport if they want to get physical.

A Love Island insider said ITV producers chose this luxury sporting conception to host the first winter competition for 3 years, buying up the villa till April.

Features: Lovely manor house with 8 luxurious double bedrooms and 3 villas with 3 double bedrooms (34 beds in all are available); Michelin star chef & professional butler; 25 metre T-shaped swimming pool; 400m running track, a football and rugby pitch, its own river: sandy beach with a pizza oven and BBQ with hammocks with two 50m long Olympic swimming lanes in the dam; spa with a

Mike Spencer, Executive Producer at Lifted Entertainment, said: After eight brilliant series we are excited to be serving up two new helpings of love in 2023 starting in January.

Cash for power

Cape Town gets Treasury exemption

Walking

you’ll

greeted

owner, Pierre and his staff, who will treat you like guests in our own home. Henri’s combines an inspired menu with a casually sophisticated setting in a heritage house conveniently situated on Somerset West Main Road.

We also welcome larger groups, our top floor has been renovated and can be used for private functions. Our inviting, comfortable dining room is the perfect place to enjoy a great meal.

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has announced the City can now pay cash for power fed into the local electricity grid. Businesses, and in time residents, will receive cash for selling their excess power into Cape Town’s grid. This after National Treasury exempted the City from competitive bidding processes not designed for the coming energy revolution. The sale of excess power by homes and businesses with Small Scale Embedded Generation (SSEGs), among other generation solutions, will contribute to Cape Town’s goal of 4-stages load-shedding protection within three years.

“The future is now, as we aim to immediately roll out the paying of cash for power. Payments to commercial customers will be possible before June, and within the year for any Capetonian with the necessary City-approved generation capacity. If you’re thinking of investing in a solar system, it just got more attractive.”

“We aim to buy electricity from as many City supplied customers as are willing to sell to us. These customers may now produce as much power as they can from their approved systems and feed it into Cape Town’s grid. Under this plan, we will also pay these customers an incentive over and above the NERSA-approved tariff as they help us turn the corner on load-shedding.”

“As our network of home power producers grows, so will our city’s energy security. This has the potential to be a powerful force to end load-shedding over time, together with our Independent Power Procurement programme, and Power Heroes incentives for voluntary energy savings,” said Mayor Hill-Lewis.

Our menu can be described as comfort food with a modern global influence. We are well known for our aged grass-fed beef as well as the freshest local seafood. Alongside our à la carte menu, we offer a light lunch menu during the day and also have a kiddies menu. We also serve homemade, thin based pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven.

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has approved a rate of 78,98c/kWh for this financial year for the City to pay power sellers. The City also adds a 25c/kWh incentive tariff on top of this.

“We are focused on ending load-shedding over time, and the City has steadily been laying the groundwork to enable payment for excess small scale power, including:

- Dropping a policy requirement for power sellers to be ‘net consumers’ of energy, which previously only allowed for municipal bills to be credited for excess power, instead of actual cash payments.

- Commencing a wheeling trial for commercial and industrial users which is helping to iron out technical and billing issues ahead of mass-scale rollout.

- Allocating R15 million budget to pay for energy generated by small-scale embedded generators for the remainder of this financial year until June.”

into Henri’s,

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Information and Image by Jamie Pyatt News Ltd.

Somerset Mall Art Mile by

MARCO OLIVIER

This strategic public art partnership with Marco Olivier will see the 69, 000sqm Somerset Mall being the first retail property to partner with a local artist. Somerset Mall has original pieces from Marco Olivier’s collection on display throughout the mall walkways, including new releases and never seen before sculptures.

“The strategic collaboration with a locally renowned international artist is ideal and will play a vital role in enhancing our customer experience. Housing the art pieces allow customers to enjoy public art while shopping in a relaxed, mindful environment. Creating the ideal shopping experience plays an import part of the mall’s repositioning strategy” explained Mandy Bellamy, General Manager for Somerset Mall.

“The art can be found throughout the mall with key sculptures such as Surrender Man, Dancing in the Moonlight, The Warriors, and Call Me Dreamer (Faces) to mention a few, are positioned strategically in the main exhibition courts. Mindfulness is part of our everyday customer experience in Somerset Mall and by creating pause areas around the sculptures allows for our guests to tap out from their daily routine and a take a moment to re-energize,” says Mandy Bellamy.

Whether you are visiting to indulge in some leisurely me time, to tick off the essentials on your grocery list, or enjoying some quality time with your family; these majestic sculptures must be experienced when in Somerset Mall.

Nestled between the quaint town of Somerset West and Strand, you will find South Africa’s longest sculpture gallery in a Shopping Mall.

The Somerset Mall Art Mile showcases sculptures from Marco Olivier’s collection throughout the mall, adding an element of surprise to your shopping experience, says Mel Jeffries, Marketing Manager for Somerset Mall.

The Weightless Man

Call Me Dreamer The Warrior Dancing in the Moonlight Marco’s Hand

The Warrior

The Bistro & Tasting Room

At Brookdale now open to experience

First South African microsatellite launches since 2009

On 3 January 2023, EOS SAT-1, the first imaging satellite to be built by Dragonfly Aerospace, has lifted off from SpaceX’s launch site in Cape Canaveral, Florida as part of the Transporter-6 mission.

The satellite is the first of a seven-satellite constellation in low Earth orbit for customer EOSDA (EOS Data Analytics). The remaining six satellites of the constellation will be deployed over the next three years. EOS SAT is the world’s first agriculture-focused satellite constellation, providing the agriculture and forestry industry with high-quality data to support efficient and sustainable practices.

Images obtained from Dragonfly’s EOS SAT-1 will deliver valuable information for harvest monitoring, application mapping, seasonal planning and assessments that analyse information such as soil moisture, yield prediction and biomass levels. This data will support growers with reducing carbon dioxide emissions and help them to develop sustainable agricultural methods. Such information will have important environmental benefits for the planet and help prevent natural habitats from being diminished for crop growth and maintain biodiversity.

Dragonfly Aerospace is a leading provider of Earth-observation optical payloads and satellite platforms. It was founded in 2019 by a group of experienced aerospace engineers led by CEO Bryan Dean and is based in Stellenbosch. It has a state-of-the-art 3000m² design and manufacturing facility and is a proven global provider of space technology hardware.

The Brookdale Estate outside Paarl has announced the opening of The Bistro at Brookdale on 1 February 2023.

The Bistro at Brookdale promises a relaxed, contemporary Paarl Winelands dining experience. Seasoned executive chef Gary Coetzee is at the helm of the restaurant, assisted by restaurant and tasting room manager Michelle Michaels.

Diners may expect soulful dishes, brought together with wines grown on the surrounding vines and vinified by winemaker, Kiara Scott.

Adjacent to the newly constructed Bistro and the cellar, the Tasting Room will be open inviting guests to immerse themselves into the Brookdale experience and sampling the estate’s terroir-driven vintages, made in ever-evolving styles.

The Bistro and Tasting Room is built and decorated in a contemporary style, and includes both indoor, and outside dining spaces on the wide terrace overlooking the surrounding vineyards.

The menu features fresh and wholesome cuisine, including some of the signature dishes sampled and favoured by guests who have stayed at the Brookdale Manor House, since its opening in 2021. The Bistro experience is further complemented by an exciting wine list that showcases the Brookdale and Mason Road ranges, in addition to other interesting wines from the Paarl region and beyond.

The Bistro at Brookdale will be open for lunch from Tuesdays to Sundays, with dinner served on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Western Cape

#Classof2022 beat the odds!

The Western Cape matric Class of 2022 has beaten the odds and increased our provincial matric pass rate to 81.4%, with 49 102 candidates passing their exams – the largest number of successful candidates we’ve ever had!

“More importantly, every one of our successful candidates received a matric pass that makes them eligible to apply to universities or colleges. This means that we have extended opportunity to nearly 50 000 young people who are now ready to take the next step into higher education and skills development. In addition, five of our candidates were recognised by the national minister as the best of the best – including the top candidate in the whole country!”

Top candidates in Quintile 5: 1st place: Kelly Grace Prowse (Rustenberg Girls’ High School), 2nd place: Simone Anna Mart Louw (Bloemhof High School), 3rd place: Kenneth Janson (Hoër Jongenskool Paarl).

Top candidates in Quintile 3: 2nd place: Athenkosi Khonzani (Centre of Science and Technology – COSAT).

Top candidates in Mathematics: 1st place: Kelly Grace Prowse (Rustenberg Girls’ High School) and 3rd place: Jason Frederik de Villiers (Rondebosch Boys’ High).

What makes this achievement all the more extraordinary is that the matric Class of 2022 was at the greatest disadvantage due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and other disruptions during the exam period.

This class was one of the last to go back to school in 2020, and were not at school every day during 2021. Their curriculum was trimmed for three years, but the matric exams tested the full content. And they did not have any exam practice in Grade 10 and 11.

Bryan Dean, CEO and Co-founder of Dragonfly Aerospace, said: “This has been an important project for our whole team and has allowed us to demonstrate our capabilities, not just in producing high-performance electro-optical imagers, but in designing and manufacturing a full imaging satellite system. It’s an amazing feeling to see EOS SAT-1 leave the launch pad and take the next step in its journey to delivering crucial data that will have important environmental benefits for our planet. We look forward to supporting EOSDA with its mission to launch the next six satellites by 2025.”

In matric, they have struggled with the ongoing challenge of load-shedding. “While we were able to conduct all of our exams successfully despite the power cuts, they left many learners in the dark in the evenings when they needed to study.”

Candidates in Cape Town had the added disruption of a major taxi strike during their exams. “Due to the extraordinary efforts of our schools, parents, and learners, our candidates were all able to write their exams during the strike.”

“This was also the biggest matric class we have ever had, with 2 629 extra candidates compared to last year, and our highest exam turnout rate since 2015.”

Photo: Anna Mart Louw

Wines of SA - a year of recovery

Despite a decline of 5% in export volumes, the South African wine industry remains focused on its road to recovery following the pandemic. It is positive to see that export value has only seen a 2.4% decline, with Rand per litre on a whole, showing marginal growth as producers navigate rising costs, shipping challenges and shortages in the supply of packaging goods.

A total volume of 368.8 million litres of wine left our shores in 2022, some 20 million litres less than in 2021. These exports totalled R9.9 billion Rand in value, down from R10.2 billion in 2021. The decline can mainly be attributed to shipping constraints at the port of Cape Town, in particular an extended period of adverse weather conditions, as well as the two-week-long period of strikes by port workers in October.

The total price per litre increased by 2.2%, mainly supported by the 5.3% increase in bulk Rand per litre – yet another positive step in the direction of premiumization for both packaged and bulk wine categories. Bulk wine exports equate to 62% of total export volumes, however in terms of value contribution, packaged wine is by far the value-leader at 77%.

The UK, South Africa’s largest wine export market, where the perception and quality offering of South African wine has grown over the past decade, continued to show growth of 5% in volume. The Chinese market, which previously showed exponential growth for South African wine, has slowed down due to the extended extreme lockdown measures imposed by the Chinese government with the total

exports value decline of 26% and volumes of 38%.

In our second-largest market, Germany, a decline of 17% in value and 9% in volume could be attributed to: rising inflation in Germany, increase in living costs, an emerging culture of drinking local wines, lack of tourism to South Africa, an area that has previously fostered long-standing relationships with consumers and the wines of South Africa.

Stellenzicht Wines

pursuing excellence through sustainability and regenerative farming

Regenerative farming and sustainability are at the heart of Stellenzicht’s farming philosophy.

Stellenzicht is situated on the slopes of the Helderberg mountain, just outside Stellenbosch. The property came under private ownership in 2017 which saw a young and dynamic team take over the reins under the lead of winemaker, L’Ré Hughes and viticulturist, Nico Nortje. The team wants to protect the farm’s natural resources through regenerative farming practices. This journey started by working closely with industry leaders to establish an extensive replanting program to establish the correct varieties and rootstocks for the various soils and terroir on the property. The property’s focus immediately changed to Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Cinsault and Chardonnay.

Regenerative farming practices which were put in place included an extensive compost program to reduce the use of artificial fertilizers, decreasing tillage of soils to promote a healthy soil biome, especially in the young blocks where fine root development is essential, as well as improving the water requirements in the vineyard. Another important piece of the puzzle was planting cover crops as a natural weed suppressant, as well as selecting the right cover crop for each vineyard to address any nutrient requirements. There is also a big focus on encouraging a self-regulating ecosystem of natural predators for vineyard prey and pests by establishing fynbos corridors between vineyard blocks. All the attention to detail paid off and within the first 4 years the team started reaping the rewards of their efforts. Natural fauna and flora returned to the property in abundance, and the quality of the grapes increased exponentially with each passing year. Nortje commented, “We truly believe that regenerative farming is the way forward, and the past 5 years have been proof that you can farm a premium product, while taking care of nature.”

The winery was also updated with the latest equipment and technology to ensure that the harvested grapes could be nurtured during the winemaking process, but according to the winemaker, L’Ré Hughes, the biggest focused stays in the vineyards. “All great wines start in the vineyards, and to us, it was super important to understand these vineyards, apply the best practices to

achieve exceptional quality grapes, all while being very aware of our impact on mother nature.”

As a member of the Porto Protocol, they are very aware of their carbon footprint. The installation of their solar farm in 2022 was the natural next step in securing alternative energy sources, lowering their demand on the traditional grid.

This continues effort and drive toward balance and excellence is embodied in the brand’s logo, consisting of a dragonfly intertwined with the SZ of Stellenzicht. Dragonflies are a great bioindicator of health in an ecosystem. The team notes that the logo is their constant reminder of where they are heading. Creating balanced wines from nature in balance. A consistent pursuit of balance. For more information contact +27 (0)21 880 1103 or visit www.stellenzicht-wines.myshopify.com

What better way to experience local wines than right here at Somerset Mall

Somerset Mall TASTE WKND is an experiential event that will introduce visitors to a diversity of wines, spirits, and gifts that Somerset Mall and surrounding wine estates has to offer

Shoppers will be treated to a fine selection of charming wines and praise-worthy spirits! TASTE WKND will give shoppers and wine lovers the opportunity to taste wines and spirits produced from carefully selected exhibitors of the Capes’ premium wineries. All the showcased wines will be available for purchase at discounted prices from Wine Company and its partner wine estates.

Enjoy browsing and shopping for authentic homegrown gems from clothing, décor, jewellery and more at our SM Homegrown Market while tasting, exploring and learning about local wineries, art, and shopping culture.

TASTE WKND will take place on Saturday the 25th of February from 11pm to 4pm. In the H&M court located at entrance 3.

For more information visit www.somersetmall.co.za

REALTORS

&

No. 1 Waterhouse is an 11 000m2 Premium Grade office redevelopment situated in the sought after Waterford Precinct of Century City. The building boasts a high aesthetic appeal and professional experience.

The Edge is a sustainably designed landmark of architectural excellence and functionality, which transcends the norm of conventional architectural aesthetics and delivers a luxury corporate workspace experience of the highest calibre.

457m2 683m2 R

Somerset Square | Green Point

Situated on Somerset Road, This 17,000m2 business complex with a mix of office studios, retail stores and restaurants.

R 120m2

Unleash your workforce in this premium grade property in the heart of Century City. Liberty Life is a Green star rated office Building.

Central |

Plattekloof Office Park |

170m2

Hyde

Park House is AAA-grade freestanding office building. The building offers top-quality finishes and green building initiatives. 235m2

INDUSTRIAL OPPORTUNITIES

Brackengate Business Park 1 | Brackenfell

Brackengate Business Park is one of the most strategically positioned light industrial parks in Cape Town, set on the ‘golden triangle’ surrounded by the R300, N1 and N2. Ideally positioned. This warehouse unit is perfect for light manufacturing enterprises.

Stonewood Business Park | Kraaifontein

Stonewood Business Park is an exclusive new light industrial development, situated on Hexrivier Road, Kraaifontein, adjacent to Okavango Road. The development comprises of 16 units, each unit has a warehouse with reception/office area and first floor office. Tailored to suit your individual business needs.

Mega

|

Light industrial park designed according to the current urban planning. Watershed Park is close to the N1, N2 and has easy access to the R300.

The

Reserve |

1,374m2

|

Situated on Kinghall Avenue in Epping 2.This newly built warehouse is ideal for storage, logistics and a clean light industry occupier.

4,821m2 R 75m2 600 amps

Garret Street | Parow

Large scale distribution center situated on Garret Street in Parow Industrial. Project to be completed in April 2023.

Rio Park | Stikland

Rio Park is located Stikland Industria. This upmarket Park is close to the N1, N2 and has quick easy access to the R300.

* Prices listed are VAT exclusive. Properties listed are subject to availability.

Louis +27 (0) 76 978 7360 louis@urbantown.co.za

johan@urbantown.co.za

propert y studio

FAAHKIR BESTMAN DANCING HIS WAY ONTO THE WORLD’S STAGE

Faahkir Bestman (19) was always destined for greatness. From the moment he first stepped onto a dance floor, it was clear to all who saw him that he had something special.

Dubbed Hanover Park’s Billy Elliot, the young Capetonian caught the eye of Abeedah Medell of the famed Eoan Group when he was just eight years old. Believing in his talents, Abeedah gave Faahkir the formative training he needed and encouraged him to dream beyond his reality.

With each step, Faahkir grew stronger and more determined to dance on the big stages of the world. At just twelve years old, he won the inaugural Christopher Kindo scholarship, allowing him to attend the National School of the Arts in Johannesburg. In Grade 9, Intocast SA selected him for their bursary programme which covered all his expenses through high school.

Before his final matric exams, Faahkir was awarded the opportunity of a lifetime: a scholarship to attend the prestigious Joffrey Ballet School in New York. The Johannesburg Youth Ballet (JYB) has taken up the cause and is driving and managing a fundraising campaign on BackaBuddy, to ensure that Faahkir has everything he needs for his time at the Joffrey Ballet.

DANIELLE POWIS HELP US TO PROTECT CAPE TOWN'S MOST ICONIC STRUCTURES

“There are many talented young dancers who want to make a career out of dance, but it is perhaps once or twice in a lifetime that someone with Faahkir’s talent, commitment, passion, and focus to achieve despite adversity crosses your path. I have seen his growth as an artist in all genres of dance. He is eager to learn, takes and applies corrections, and is passionate about everything he does. He is a bright and humble young man, with incredible stage presence, that I know is destined for greatness,” says Mark Hawkins

Ballet).

O’MEARA RUSIKE VERY FIRST OKAPI LADIES INTERNATIONAL WINNER

The Beach Hut Trust is a collaboration between public and private organisations in conjunction with the City of Cape Town to create a program to protect, preserve and promote Cape Town’s most iconic structures - The Beach Huts.

Started in 2020, the Beach Hut Trust was formed as a collaboration between private residents, local businesses and city representatives to establish a group to look after the Beach Huts in Muizenberg and surrounds that have been falling into disrepair.

The trust aims to create social and economic opportunity for the local community through the ‘Save Our Beach Hut’ campaign and restore and maintain these iconic structures for many years to come.

The Beach Hut Trust recently partnered with local pro-surfer Danielle Powis. As Beach Hut ambassador, Danielle will help to preserve, protect and promote the legacy of the historical beach huts.

Why Danielle loves the Beach Huts

“I am honoured to partner with the Beach Hut Trust. Muizenberg is where my surfing career began, and the huts hold so many special childhood memories.”

“When I was 10, after catching my first wave at Muizenberg beach. I stood up on my first wave and felt great excitement, but terrible ankle pain. When I looked down, a bluebottle had wrapped around me, and I was rushed to the hospital. I was desperate to get back into the water. Surfing was one of the few things that reminded me of my father, who passed away when I was only 4. He was a huge ocean lover (even though he couldn’t swim). My mom shared how he used to dunk me in the ocean at two days old, as he knew that was where I belonged,” says Danielle.

Danielle turned Pro in 2022 when she represented South Africa at the ISA World Surfing Games in California and received the award for the Wildcard spot in the Ballito Pro Challenger Series in 2022. Danielle will participate with the Surfing Team SA in the 2023 International Surfing Association World Surfing Games this year.

“I look forward to helping preserve, protect and promote the iconic huts for more families to enjoy,” Danielle concludes.

REBECCA SEZIBA WENT VIRAL WHILE PLAYING PUBLIC PIANO

Rebecca Seziba, the little girl who went viral while playing a public piano in Table Bay Mall in December, has signed an international record deal.

Zimbabwean jockey, O’Meara Rusike clinched a spectacular victory in the inaugural OKAPI Ladies International race (the first-ever ladies’ race) at the L’Ormarins King’s Plate in Cape Town on Saturday, 7 January 2023.

Rusike won over 1200m aboard Pacific Green and had previously participated in the Magnolia Cup in the UK, where she made history as the first African woman to take part in the race.

The 24-year-old sat on her very first horse at the age of 18, after she joined the Zimbabwean Jockey Academy, while she was in high school.

“My passion for horseracing started in Zimbabwe and so much of what I have achieved began with the people there who supported me when there was so little opportunity and when the mountain seemed insurmountable. They supported me when no one knew my name. Getting to the SA Jockey Academy was an enormous task, and there are a lot of people who helped me to get there.”

“If you aren’t involved in horseracing, it’s difficult to explain the depth of the thrill, but the build up to and the day of the Okapi International did not disappoint! I’m living life to its fullest and I feel so indebted to Okapi, L’omarins Kings Plate, Justin Snaith and everyone involved for bringing diversity and fun to horseracing in South Africa.”

“I hope that I can pave a road for other athletes from developing countries not to give up on a future you deserve! It doesn’t matter if the dream has to change along the way - it matters only that you live life to the fullest.”

Rudi Smith spotted the young lady at the Table Bay Mall playing the piano and shared the video on his Facebook page. The clip has gained over a million views and caught the attention of Rahul Suntah, - a composer, producer and pianist from Mauritius, currently based in England.

The record company reached out to the family with a proposal for a collaborative deal between Suntah and Rebecca.

The deal was agreed upon, and a contract was signed.

Rebecca has an ear and a natural talent for music, as she is completely self-taught and has never had piano lessons. Most of her inspiration came from watching her brother play the piano fluently.

Rebecca said that she loved playing the piano and wants to study music and become a professional pianist one day.

“My parents encourage me to be self-motivated and believe in myself. I believe nothing is impossible.”

(Artistic Director of the Johannesburg Youth

Photo: Faahkir Bestman - Photo Credit: Sanette Wessels/Nette Photography

OUR BOLDEST BAKKIE YET | THE ALL-NEW ISUZU D-MAX

In South Africa, the new, seventh-generation Isuzu D-Max has made its official debut, delivering more technology and safety than ever before. The D-Max is poised to upend the status quo in the leisure double cab market because of its outstanding good looks and comfortable ride.

This Isuzu bakkie is not just the brand’s most sought-after model ever; it is also proudly made in South Africa! In the previous 42 years, the manufacturer’s Struandale facility in Gqeberha has produced seven generations of Isuzu bakkies.

Although the broad, incredibly competent D-Max model line for Mzanzi is exported to 25 left and right-hand drive countries around the African continent, it is something distinctive. Five Single Cabs, six Extended Cabs, and an astounding eleven Double Cab versions are available, ranging from the most basic 3.0 Ddi V-Cross 4x4 to the most spacious 1.9 Ddi HR L.

The Reeds new vehicle sales team, which is a member of one of the top-performing Isuzu dealers in the nation, is prepared to meet with you to talk about your vehicle needs and to assist you in getting into a car for your needs or those of your family or company.

Contact 021 596 2691 or visit www.reeds.co.za

South Africa's First | Sensory Reality Wellness Pod

The world of sensory reality is here, and excitingly, the very first wellness sensory reality device has just arrived in South Africa and will be showcased at the iconic V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

“Sensory reality allows for a range of multi-sensory real-life and fantasy-based experiences to be replicated in superb detail, with the body’s five senses activated simultaneously. Multi-sensory digitisation of experiences will help ‘bridge the gap’ between reality and simulation,” explains Fred Galstaun, director of Sensiks, the developers of the range of Sensiks Sensory Reality Pods who are based in the Netherlands.

The U.WELL x Sensiks Express Wellness Pod provides a safe space to calm down both mind and body, with soothing experiences that involve synchronised visuals, audio, fragrances, airflow, heat fluctuations, haptics, and vibrations. Over 2000 therapeutic multi-sensory reality experiences are available for relaxation, burnout prevention, anxiety reduction, mindfulness, guided meditation, pain relief, education, and entertainment. Customised content can also be created.

The emotional state of users can be assessed and directed via interactive biofeedback sensors that measure and align biometrics such as heart rate, HRV, GSR, respiration facial expressions and more. Sensory reality pods have been shown to have a significant positive impact in the treatment of mental health disorders, stress reduction and burnout prevention, PTSD, addiction, anxiety, neo natal illnesses, muscular skeletal disorders and more.

The use of cognitive distraction as a pain and anxiety management strategy is well tested and proven. Being immersed in the sensory reality provided by the pod offers distraction from physical and mental adversities. Sensory reality in the healthcare field is the future – and, together with virtual and augmented reality, is set to become a part of our everyday lives.

The vanguard U.WELL x Sensiks Express Wellness Pod that has recently arrived in South Africa is now available to the public at a pop-up location in the V&A Waterfront until 31 May 2023.

Photo: Reeds N1 City - Photo Credit: Artifex Creative Photography

3 benefits of buying

property in Cyprus

“90% of all millionaires become so through owning real estate.” – Andrew Carnegie

With many permanent residency programmes in Europe no longer available or changing their investment criteria to be more expensive, there are fewer and fewer options to consider.

There’s never been a better time to explore investing in Cyprus to realise your Plan B!

Cyprus is regarded as one of the safest countries in the world; and year on year sees an increase in property sales to overseas buyers especially in the Western part of the island – in the city of Paphos. Huge investment is pouring into the economy with all the infrastructural developments and the enormous natural gas fields. The three main benefits of investing in Cyprus are to secure permanent residency through property investment to realise a Plan B; the lifestyle options on offer and the peace of mind that Cyprus is a secure investment destination.

Your Plan B.

Securing permanent residency is a sought-after Plan B because it is effectively an insurance policy to be able to relocate to that country at any time without a visa required; and without having to go through the normal onerous immigration processes and procedures.

The permanent residency programme on offer in Cyprus has been voted as THE BEST in Europe because it automatically qualifies 3 generations in the same family line, including dependent children up to age 25 as well as both the parents and the parents-in-law of the main investor. Not only is the application process very quick – it takes just two months for residency to be approved – but the permanent residency status for the whole family is for life, the permit never expires nor needs to be renewed.

Another benefit is that you do not need to live in Cyprus to retain your residency status. Cyprus permanent residents do have the right to apply for citizenship following their physical presence in the country for a number of years, so will in fact follow the naturalisation programme.

The lifestyle on offer

Another huge benefit of investing in Cyprus is the fabulous lifestyle on offer. Being an ex-British colony, there is no language barrier – everyone speaks English and all the documentation is in English. Cyprus has a relaxed, stress-free lifestyle offering an ideal family environment. Your children & grandchildren will benefit from excellent schools and tertiary education instructions (all Euro-accredited); and the healthcare facilities and medical care are world class. Cyprus is very similar to South Africa. The golf courses are world-class, the countryside is breathtakingly beautiful and Cyprus has 66 blue-flag status beaches, the cleanest seas in the Med and a mountain range where it snows for 3 months. This is a country for enjoying and exploring.

A safe investment destination

Cyprus has been voted one of the safest countries in the world; and offers a safe, solid environment in which to invest in real estate. Properties in Cyprus offer excellent value for money when compared to other European countries – especially homes right on or near to The Med. The lush & beautiful Western side of the country is similar to the Western Cape and enjoys the biggest demand and highest growth.

In Cyprus, unlike some other European countries, as an ex-pat you are not restricted to buying only in Special Designated Areas (SDAs), nor are you prescribed to stay in the country every year to retain your residency. Being able to rent your property out has the real benefit where you can earn a decent Euro-based income.

There is a high demand for both long-term rentals and short-term holiday lets. Not only will your asset generate income for you, but you have complete peace of mind that the property purchase is legitimate and your ownership is guaranteed.

Your trusted partners

Cypriot Realty – a proudly South African company in operation for more than 15 years with offices in Sandton, Cape Town and Cyprus – is your trusted partner to realise your Plan B in Europe. We are recognised and respected as Southern Africa’s authoritative investment specialists promoting Cyprus as an ideal destination for acquiring EU citizenship or permanent residency, for property investment, for immigration or retirement and starting an EU-based business. We understand investor’s needs, and we have an impressive track record showcasing our success.

Property inspection trips

We organise personalized property inspection trips for you to come to Cyprus to look at the property options and to experience for yourself the lifestyle on offer.

From arranging meetings with taxation and legal specialists, to opening up your offshore bank account – we hold your hand every step of the way.

Contact us for a confidential meeting to discuss how we can help you realise your and you family’s Plan B in Europe

Contact Jenny Ellinas Founder & CEO

Tel: +27 83 448 8734

Email: jenny@cypriotrealty.com

Visit: www.cypriotrealty.com

Dance the Night Away at Benguela Cove

Visitors to Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate can now enjoy a salsa dance night every Saturday from 4th March with live music, cocktails and dinner. The El Rito band, which recently performed with Andrew Young in concert, will be playing contemporary Latin music at the Moody Lagoon restaurant.

The winery venue features à la carte dining, including options of cheese and meat boards and fresh oysters. The elevated position offers guests delightful views across the lagoon where the estate is situated, separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow sandbar.

The estate developer, Penny Streeter OBE, says: “Our new seafood and oyster bar is already a great success, open seven days a week in the summer from 10 am to 8 pm. We are constantly expanding the range of attractions and events for visitors staying in the estate’s luxury seaside villas, as well as to our friends in the Hermanus community and beyond.”

The 2023 events calendar also includes salsa dance lessons with South Africa’s former Latin American dance champion, Jenielle Solomons, who manages the tasting room at the Hermanus wine farm. The salsa dance academy offers a course of eight weekly Latin dance sessions from 6 pm. Each evening, there will be a range of hospitality options that include half-price offers on cocktails and wine specials.

The salsa dance academy kicks off with a special Valentine’s Day event on Tuesday, 14th February, from 7 pm to 10 pm, when tickets will include a glass of wine and a group salsa dance class, with prizes for the best-dressed dancers.

On Valentine’s Day, there will also be gourmet picnics and pontoon cruises aboard the Lady Bonnie in the afternoon and again at sunset. The picnic for two includes a bottle of Lighthouse Collection Sauvignon Blanc at, R1200 per couple.

On Saturday, 25th February at 5 pm, Cloud 9 will be rocking the lagoon as the band takes visitors on a musical journey through the ages, including classics by the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and other favourites. The estate’s Airstream caravans will be open throughout the show, serving hot dogs, burgers and chips, platters, wine, beer and cold soft drinks.

Wonderful dance

productions scheduled for Artscape

There is a ballet buzz in the air as the buoyant summer season atmosphere lingers across the Mother City and shows no sign of abating! The acclaimed South African International Ballet Competition (SAIBC), celebrating its milestone 10th anniversary this year, is capitalising on the upward trend that ballet continues to enjoy. The competition takes place at Artscape from 23-26 July 2023.

In 2023, Capetonians can look forward to a smorgasbord of wonderful dance productions. From traditional ballet classics like Cinderella to outdoor performances at Maynardville, moving tribute productions like Dreaming Dance in District SixThe Johaar Mosaval Story and the annual SAIBC, ballet and dance lovers have their pick of exciting options.

The 10th SAIBC is taking place once again at the Artscape Opera House in Cape Town from 23 - 26 July 2023 and will be presented as a hybrid event.

The programme also includes an art retreat led by Betzy Geldenhuys. Visitors can benefit from her 35 years of experience to master the fundamentals of painting and create their own works of art to take home. The retreats take place on 28th and 29 August 2022 from 11 am to 4 pm, priced at R1700.

On Sunday, 26th March the TINMAN starts at Benguela Cove, the oldest triathlon series currently running in South Africa, which started in 1999. It is a grassroots development series, offering races for adults and children from 8 years old and upward, with all competitors running together in five different events on race day

Visitors are advised to check the Benguela Cove website as new events are added to the programme throughout the year www.benguelacove.co.za

Cape Town Art Fair

For the 10th edition of Investec Cape Town Art Fair, we are thrilled to announce the 88 participating exhibitors. Produced by Fiera Milano Exhibitions Africa, a leader and one of the main integrated operators worldwide in the exhibition and congress sector, the Fair takes place from 17-19 February 2023 at Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) and will focus on the concept of time. Sections will explore the theme to mark a decade of the art fair, and events will highlight the art fair’s journey and impact over the last decade.

The 2023 edition provides a moment to reflect on the fair’s impact, in bringing the visual arts community under one roof and creating a platform for the advancement of the sector.

By bringing together a diverse group of celebrated exhibitors, including prominent galleries from around the globe, Investec Cape Town Art Fair has also provided an opportunity to showcase Cape Town, the city’s people and their creative achievements.

Romance under the Stars

Cinderella - Cape Town City Ballet presents the folk fairytale of the sweettempered Cinderella, a young woman with a heart of gold who is left in the care of her two ungainly, forgetful & generally disagreeable step-sisters, Violet & Daffodil, contributing to Cinderella’s woes. Cinderella will be presented from 4 -19 February 2023 at Artscape in the Opera House.

The beautiful dancers of Cape Town City Ballet delight in bringing their audiences this magical and uplifting tale where good always prevails. Audiences will be treated to a sparkling & captivating journey of magic and wonderment and all the feel-good moments of the summer season! The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra appears at select performances on 4, 8 and 19 February 2023.

Following last year’s sold-out Valentine’s concert, Romance Under the Stars, the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA), in partnership with Outside the Bowl Africa (OTB), are delighted to announce that due to popular demand, they will be presenting Romance Under the Stars Volume 2 at the beautiful Ashanti Wine Estate in Paarl on Saturday, 18 February 2023. Gates open at 15h00.

The concert will feature top Cape Town singers Loren Erasmus, Jarrad Ricketts, Nur Abrahams and the sensational saxophonist Don Vino. Expect an evening of jazz standards, love songs, soul, R&B, pop hits, and lots of fun, laughter, dancing, and romancing.

PSFA and OTB will receive the proceeds from the ticket sales and raffle to feed impoverished people. This is an open-air concert, please remember to bring your blankets, chairs, and picnic baskets.

Tickets available at Quicket

Photo: Tatiana Melnik, Sleeping Beauty. - Photo Credit: Pat Bromilow Downing

Experience an adventure on the Cape Cycle Routes

A ride through the Western Cape is a cycling journey like no other, covering some of the most diverse flora and fauna on the planet – abundant with tarmac roads, gravel roads, single tracks, switchbacks and jeep tracks to suit everyone from the leisure cyclist to the technical rider. There’s never been more of an excuse to swap the car for your own bicycle.

The Cape Cycle Routes have been designed to put the Western Cape on the map, not just as a premier tourist destination, but as Africa’s top cycling destination. The routes are designed to showcase small towns and attractions across the province.

The Cape Cycle Routes include: The Cross Cape, Cycle Tour 364, Cederberg Circuit, Overberg Meander and the Karoo Crossing.

Cross Cape

The Cross Cape cycle route takes you over a distance of 742km through four distinct geographical areas of the Cape, each of which offers a multitude of invigorating and unique experiences.

Route - Garden Route: Plettenberg Bay to Knysna, Knysna to George. Klein Karoo: George to Oudtshoorn, Swartberg Mountains: Oudtshoorn to Calitzdorp, Calitzdorp to Van Wyksdorp, Van Wyksdorp to Cape Overberg: Riversdale, Swellendam to Riviersonderend, Riviersonderend to Greyton, Greyton to Franschhoek. Cape Winelands: Franschhoek to Stellenbosch.

Cycle Tour 364

Cycle Tour 364 takes you over 123.3km through all the trendiest Cape Town hotspots, over Chapman’s Peak to the Cape Point Nature Reserve, and back again. Filled with awe-inspiring views, intense hill climbs and unforgettable adventures.

Route - V & A Waterfront to Hout Bay, Hout Bay to Brakkekloof, Brakkekloof to Cape Point Gate and back to the V & A Waterfront.

Cederberg Circuit

The Cederberg Circuit takes you over 247km through winding historical mountain passes, past crystal-clear rivers and luscious nature reserves.

Route - Citrusdal to Algeria, Uitkyk Pass to Mount Ceder, Mount Ceder to Op die Berg, Op die Berg to Citrusdal.

Overberg Meander

The Overberg Meander takes you over a distance of 364km through historic towns, passing through the Southern-most point of Africa and with stretches of unspoilt beauty.

Route - Swellendam to L’Agulhas, L’Agulhas to Napier, Napier to Tesselaarsdal, Tesselaarsdal to Elgin Valley.

Karoo Crossing

The Karoo Crossing takes you on a 358km adventure as you journey through towns each with its unique charm, winding historic mountain passes and semi-desert plateaus.

Route - Garden Route: Knysna to De Vlugt, De Vlugt to Buffelsdrif road. Klein Karoo: Buffelsdrif road to De Rust. Cape Karoo: De Rust to Prince Albert, Prince Albert to Matjiesrivier. Swartberg Mountains: Matjiesrivier to Calitzdorp.

For more information visit www.capecycleroutes.co.za