The Newspaper - May Edition 2015

THE NEWSPAPER

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May 2015

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HAVE YOU SEEN THE ‘BIG 5’ ?

GAME RESERVE Page 5

ENVIRONMENTAL Page 7

If not, now is the time to experience South Africa’s “Big Five” - only a few hours’ drive from Cape Town with a choice of several excellent Private Game Reserves!

The past few years have seen a dramatic change in the status of the Western-, and Southern Cape Safari region, and today these areas claim to be a world-class Safari destination - famous for its spectacular scenery and wide range of ecosystems.

What can you expect to see on a Safari?

Safaris usually take place in remote wildlife areas and game reserves, away from villages, towns and cities. Most of the area is made up of grasslands, open plains and trees, therefore the ideal place for animals to live. You may also observe the interaction of the various wildlife species at waterholes, rivers and streams which could be a great learning experience.

40 YEARS AT CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW The 2015 Chelsea Flower Show will be Kirstenbosch and SANBI’s 40th exhibit at the Chelsea Flower Show in London, and they are hoping for a 34th gold medal!

BREWERY Page 9

So far 2015 has certainly been an awards year for Kirstenbosch, which has underlined the important role that botanical gardens play in contributing to the country’s tourism statistics.

On 1 March 2015, the Kirstenbosch Centenary Tree Canopy Walkway was declared the Most Beautiful Object in South Africa (MBOISA) at Design Indaba Expo 2015 for its “functionally practical design meeting nature to enhance human experience.”

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REALTY Page 11

F O R H I M .

F O R

TEL: 021 705 4609 | www.mrlprivatecollection.co.za

H E R .

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THE NEWS

Have you seen the ‘Big 5’ ? (Continue from page 1) Private Game Reserves offers quality ‘Big Five’ - lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino - game-viewing in a malaria free environment, an excellent option if you're travelling with children or the elderly. Other animals that make a safari worthwhile are: giraffe, cheetah, hippopotamus, zebra, wildebeest, and antelope. These Game Reserves offer visitors an experience much more than just the conventional safari.

40 years at Chelsea Flower Show (Continue from page 1)

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THE NEWSPAPER

David Davidson - Designer

The walkway was a main feature of the SANBI exhibit at the 2014 Chelsea Flower Show. Hot on the heels of the MBOISA award, Kirstenbosch also scooped the coveted Garden of the Year Award at the 2015 International Garden Tourism Awards presented by the International Garden Tourism Network in Toronto, Canada in March this year.

“This year’s exhibit will show themes and iconic elements from seven earlier gold award exhibits, which have been recreated in a composite pageant to commemorate this special anniversary, highlighting both the botanical and cultural diversity of a range of geographic locations, botanical gardens and biomes of South Africa.”

Designer David Davidson, “ ‘Plants South Africa Gave the World’ – a fundamental theme underlying many of the Kirstenbosch exhibits shown to the Royal Horticultural Society is this year given prominence in a special section of the display that features ornamental plants well-known to gardeners around the world, all of which have been developed from South Africa’s indigenous flora.” Another highlight is a special tribute to the work of British floral designer Pam Simcock.

Game Drives - It is an amazing adventure to experience moving close-up to the majestic animals in their natural habitat, spotting and observing the game, trying to capture the perfect photo, while well trained guides and rangers follow there instinct to the whereabouts of the wild animals and passionately talk about nature.

A Safari can be much more than just game drives!

You can enjoy many more activities on offer from the various Game Reserves like bird-watching, hiking, fishing and many more.

Conservation - The region also places a large emphasis on animal conservation which includes management, development and rehabilitation of the environment to create a sustainable ecosystem through the implementation of fundamental conservation principals.

Dress Code - The safari theme is associated with khaki, brown, olive and beige colours and animal skin patterns.

Taking the right clothes is essential, not just for comfort, but also to blend in with the natural surroundings. If you are staying in a luxury lodge, you are still in the middle of the bush and you need to go prepared to have a comfortable experience.

On safari most people wear shorts and a T-shirt during the day and long sleeved shirts and long pants in the evening. It is very important to protect your head and face from the sun by wearing a wide brimmed hat or cap. It is also necessary to wear a fleece sweater, windbreaker, or bush jacket on game drives.

The most ideal shoes to wear if you are hiking is walking boots or comfortable shoes for game viewing from a vehicle.

There are a wide range of Game Lodges, Nature Reserves and Private Game Reserves available to suit all your requirements.

Many of the Game Reserves are open for one day visits, notwithstanding, it is recommended to stay at least two to three days to enjoy the complete experience.

Gondwana Game Reserve is a perfect example of the free roaming Big 5 and offers an unforgettable Wildlife Experience – read article on page 5!

Working on Table Mountain Trails

The Absa Cape Epic will help to rehabilitate trails on Table Mountain following the highly successful Prologue on its slopes.

The new singletrack from below the Blockhouse and down to Plum Pudding – opened for the event – is in need of work after the March 15 Prologue and heavy usage in the few days preceding the event. This section of trail was specifically for the Cape Epic use, and unfortunately trails can only settle with rain and time. The cost of this will be shared between the Absa Cape Epic and Table Mountain Bikers, which will oversee the repair work.

The section was opened for the Absa Cape Epic and is now officially closed to riders. SANParks is considering whether to give the go-ahead for riding on it in future.The original cost of building the trail was shared between the Absa Cape Epic, Table Mountain Bikers and the Pedal Power Association.

The Prologue on the mountain – voted one of the new seven wonders of the natural world in 2012 – drew a large crowd to the mountain and was widely hailed by competitors and fans as a great spectacle.

There has also been a huge increase in the number of riders using Table Mountain after the Tokai trail network was closed by fires. Another section of singletrack – from the bottom of Plum Pudding down to the gate below the Rhodes Memorial road – will also need some rehabilitation and the Absa Cape Epic will also be helping pay for this work.

The race also paid for trails to be upgraded at various other points in the 2015 route. The Absa Cape Epic route changes every year, and the race routinely helps build trails on the courses.

THE NEWSPAPER

THE NEWS

PAGE 3

Queen Mary 2 Ocean Liner Visits Cape Town It was a wonderful moment when Queen Mary 2, the world's largest ocean liner sailed into Cape Town harbour on Friday, 17 April just after 10 am, berthed at Duncan Dock, and 2000 passengers disembarked to explore the serene beauty of the City of Cape Town, while a few others went on board.

The ocean liner spent a day in port and left Table Bay Harbour on 18 April at 6pm with the beautiful Table Mountain as the backdrop. The visit to the Mother City was the sixth by the Cunard Line flagship, since it was launched in 2004.

RMS Queen Mary 2 is currently undertaking her ‘113-Night World Cruise 2015′, which, according to Cunard includes a “roundtrip cruise from Southampton” visiting 38 ports, 22 countries, four maiden calls including Brunei, Indonesia, China and Cambodia.

Queen Mary 2 Ocean Liner - Photo Credit: Glenn Käsner

An extensive cruise was undertaken of New Zealand’s Fjordland and iconic city waterfronts such as Sydney Harbour, Auckland, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Cape Town V&A Waterfront. The ship will have sailed over 35,000 nautical miles since its departure from Southampton on 10 January 2015 until it arrives back in Southampton on 3 May 2015.

The Queen Mary 2 is 345 metres long and has a total of 17 decks, 13 of them for passengers. On-board facilities include a theatre, a 3D cinema, casino, spa, 2 indoor swimming pools, 3 outdoor swimming pools, a shopping arcade, planetarium, library and several restaurants.

We look forward to 2016 when Ocean liners, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth will be visiting South African ports.

Virgin Active Acquisition of Controlling Interest by Brait CVC and Virgin Group announced that Brait, an investment company owned by South African billionaire Christo Wiese agreed to acquire a controlling interest in Virgin Active, the leading international health club operator, in a transaction that puts an enterprise value on the business of c. £1.3 billion.

Virgin Active - The Grid at Brackenfell Red

Average Speed Over Distance Enforcement System Extended

The highly successful Average Speed over Distance (ASOD) camera enforcement network has been extended to two sections of the N2.

This is the sixth phase expansion of this system that will now cover 28.8kms of the N2, following previous activations along the R61, the R27, and most of the N1.

The average speed is then determined by the time that it has taken a vehicle to travel from point A (where the first camera is located) to point B (where the second camera is located).

Reaching point B in a time shorter than the time which is determined by the distance and the speed limit, means that the driver was speeding.

First five phases of ASOD include: R61 from Beaufort West to Aberdeen covering 71.6km, N1 from Beaufort West to Three Sisters covering 31.7km, R27 West Coast covering 57.2km, N1 Beaufort West to Laingsburg covering 190.6km and N1 Laingsburg to Touwsrivier covering 72.1km.

Virgin Active is the leading international global health club operator with over 1.3 million adult members and 267 clubs spanning nine countries and four continents.

Its differentiated and flexible proposition, tailored to local demographics, has proven to be repeatable, successful and resilient.

Virgin Active has an outstanding business in the fast growing and under penetrated South African market, where it is the clear number one with 114 clubs (including one in Namibia).

It offers its members a broad spectrum of health club options ranging from the high end, high touch, Classic Collection to the entry level Virgin Active Red format.

Across the rest of its markets Virgin Active is the leading large format, full service health club chain focused on key metropolitan centres.

CVC will be selling all of its shareholding and Virgin Group will be selling part of its shareholding. The transaction is expected to be completed over the summer, following which Brait will own 80% of Virgin Active and Virgin Group will retain 20%, excluding management. The existing management team will be retained, and will be reinvesting alongside Brait.

Brait’s experience in long term investments globally, as well as in Virgin Active’s biggest market, South Africa, fits with Virgin Active’s aspirations for international growth in both emerging and developed markets, and will enable the company to accelerate its proven strategy.

“Virgin Active is a business that we are proud to have been associated with from the very beginning, over fifteen years’ ago. While today’s transaction is testament to the huge amount the business has already achieved, we believe that its future is more exciting.”

“We are delighted that we will continue to play a part in this alongside Brait, another long term investor with a strong track record in growing businesses, and would like to thank CVC for their support of the business during their period of ownership,” says Sir Richard Branson.

“Virgin Active’s successful track record, high cash generation and exciting growth prospects in both emerging and developed markets make this an attractive opportunity for Brait and its shareholders.”

“We look forward to being a part of Virgin Active’s success over the long term,” said John Gnodde, Chief Executive Officer of Brait South Africa.

WINTER MENU NOW AVAILABLE! R190pp + Selected Bottle Guardian Peak Wine per couple

This sixth phase of the ASOD system now covers an additional 28.8kms in two sections of the N2, bringing the coverage by the system of the province’s most dangerous roads up to 452kms.

The two sections covered, including Sir Lowry’s Pass, are: Section 1: Somerset West (Elandskloof point) to Steenbras and Section 2: Steenbras to Houwhoek.

How it works - The Average Speed over Distance (ASOD) system calculates the average speed of a vehicle from the time it passes the first camera until it passes the second camera.

This latest phase of the ASOD system will go a long way in achieving and encouraging motorists to slow down on our roads, particularly over periods with high traffic volumes.

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THE NEWS

LaunchLab Granted Funding In Support of New Facility The Stellenbosch University (SU) business incubator, LaunchLab had a successful move to its new facility enabled through a partnership between Nedbank and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The funding agreement was cemented in June 2014 and the funds will be employed over a three-year period for the revamp and operations of the new facility called the Nedbank LaunchLab. “We are delighted to partner with the DTI and SU to introduce the Nedbank LaunchLab which will serve as an incubator for young aspiring entrepreneurs and game changers aimed at instilling an entrepreneurial and innovative culture among varsity students and the surrounding communities, says Chris Wood, Head of Emerging Payments & Strategy at Nedbank.

The LaunchLab is active on all four of the public universities’ campuses in the Western Cape and the University of the Western Cape is also a formal partner of the LaunchLab. However, the incubator houses not only student ventures and university spinout companies, but also entrepreneurs from the broader community.

THE NEWSPAPER

Appletiser celebrates 50 Years On 23 April 2015, Appletiser employees celebrated the company turning 50 at the Lothian Winery in Elgin. This function is the onset of the golden anniversary celebrations for the brand.

Created in 1965 by Edmond Lombardi, Appletiser has been a true South African success story, and today is sold all around the world, including in the UK, Japan, Australia, amongst many others. Staying true to its roots, the drink is still produced in the Western Cape apple orchards of the Elgin Valley, situated in the beautiful Fynbos Floral Kingdom.

Appletiser (along with its variants, such as Red and White Grapetiser and Peartiser) has received recognition and awards in many countries over the years for its great taste and natural product quality. Apart from these variants the company also added Appletiser Colours to their portfolio in 2014.

Appletiser further facilitates the Elgin economy, namely by having assisted in developing tourism in the valley. Promotion of the Elgin Valley and Grabouw contributes to job creation and the economy of the home of Appletiser.

Actively investing in local education and creating a better future for South African children is also close to Appletiser’s heart. Numerous pre-primary, primary and secondary schools have benefited from initiatives supported by the brand.

“The new facility will enable us to offer more to entrepreneurs, launching their businesses to new levels through our acceleration programmes that help the entrepreneurs understand their entrepreneurial profiles and validate their business models,” says Philip Marais, the CEO of the LaunchLab. According to Professor Leopoldt van Huyssteen, Chief Operating Officer of SU, the creation of an entrepreneurial ecosystem that is linked to the University is important to stimulate and support entrepreneurship among students.

Next Generation Banking Comes to Stellenbosch Standard Bank announced the opening of their new Neelsie Student Hub at the Neelsie Shopping Centre in the university town of Stellenbosch. This latest opening aims to bring next-generation banking to the student community with its state-of-the-art coffee bar and fresh new design.

“We support, in collaboration with the department of education, mobile schools libraries in the Overberg district with the aim of providing age appropriate reading material to more than 2000 learners who would otherwise not have access to these recourses. By improving literacy levels in our community we believe that we can help create brighter futures for the children of the Elgin Valley”, says Francois Rozon, Managing Director of Appletiser.

Appletiser has also played an active role in initiatives that improve the lives of people in the community. The brand invests in the development of their employees and unemployed youth through a number of learnership programmes.

Stellenbosch, a unique community on its own, is home to about 26 000 students who are supported by university and academic staff.

“In line with our philosophy of giving our customers what they need where they need it, we acknowledged Stellenbosch’s individuality and decided that the informal student and academic lifestyle at Maties required a branch that reflected this quality. Hence, the new Standard Bank Neelsie Student Hub – the first of its kind in the Western Cape – will replace the smaller branch, which had reached its service capacity limits,” says Johan van Wyk, Standard Bank Provincial Head.

Photo from Left to Right Francois Rozon MD, John Ustas Chairman, Roberto Lombardi, and Carol Anne Du Toit

The Standard Bank Neelsie Student Hub is innovative and youthful. In an effort to make banking more appealing, Standard Bank have included services such as two meeting rooms, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a refreshment corner: attractions that will make going to the bank an enjoyable – and even social – activity.

Best of all for students, all this – and their banking, too! – can be done without leaving the branch.

“This celebration is a way for us to say thank you to everyone on the Appletiser team, for their hard work and dedication to the company and the brand. We acknowledge that we are merely the current custodians of the brand and we are incredibly proud to share this extraordinary milestone with present employees, retirees, former Directors and representatives from the Lombardi family.”

“Of course, Appletiser extends beyond those who work here. We also wish to thank our consumers, customers and distribution partners in South Africa and abroad and all stakeholders in Elgin who have directly and indirectly contributed to our success”, concludes Rozon.

The Green Route 62 Launch The Green Route 62, stretching between the towns of Oudtshoorn and Worcester was launched by Heal the World 4 Us in Barrydale recently, to promote Spekboom and Tourism in the area.

This launch formed part of the opening of W;NK shop in Barrydale.

The Green leave was cut by Miss Heal the World 4 Us Good Heart Plants, Roze Mettler from Bloemfontein, in support of the Spekboom that grows on this route.

L to R - Kate Severein, Helen Pointer, DR Chabad, Dilys Thwaites,Enzo van Vuuren Founder Heal the World 4 Us, Roze Mettler Miss Good Hearts Plants & Mike Hazeltine- Fitzgerald Photo Credit: Graham Abbott

Roze Mettler is a sixteen year old from Bloemfontein with a project for the year to promote Spekboom in schools and market the new Green Route 62 in the Free State.

“Spekboom is an indigenous tree and has enormous carbon-storing capabilities.

Its capacity to offset harmful carbon emissions is compared to a subtropical forest.

This remarkable plant is unique as it stores solar energy. Each hectare of Spekboom could capture 4.2 tons of carbon yearly,” says Enzo van Vuuren, Founder of Heal the World 4 Us. Enzo van Vuuren created micro incubators with a baby Spekboom which is an amazing tool to educated children.

For more information www.greenroute62.yolasite.com

THE NEWSPAPER

GAME RESERVE

PAGE 5

FINEST WILDLIFE GAME RESERVE IN FYNBOS COUNTRY What makes Gondwana Game Reserve such a popular safari destination for international and local travellers?

It is the only Big 5 Wildlife Game Reserve hidden in a “Fynbos” habitat in the world – an endemic vegetation exclusively found in the Southern Cape of South Africa.

The Newspaper recently visited this luxury Game Reserve located on the Garden Route, close to Mossel Bay, and was pleasantly surprised by the safari experience, not to mention the luxurious Kwena Lodge facilities and accommodation.

The “Fynbos” element, the mountain landscape, and the natural ecosystem bioelement make Gondwana Game Reserve a unique and breathtakingly beautiful destination. All the game within the reserve naturally occurred historically, and is indigenous to this part of the world.

Situated in the heart of the Garden Route this privately owned 11,000 hectare game reserve offers a distinctive and luxurious malaria-free safari with free roaming Big 5 Game. Herds of wildlife, including eland, giraffe, hippo, gemsbok, lion, elephant, white rhino, buffalo, cheetah, impala and zebra, can be spotted on the majestic landscape with amazing views of the Langeberg and Outeniqua Mountains.

Game Drive Experience

Owners, Mark and Wendy Rutherford, were looking for a unique property that could naturally sustain a free roaming Big Five population, something special and explored property in the Western Cape, Karoo, and Kalahari. The Rutherford’s purchased the land for its unique Biosphere, accessibility, and ability to carry game - the concept of having a privately owned Game Reserve within a “Fynbos” region to host a bush estate as well as a tourism lodge – today known as Gondwana Game Reserve.

The Owner’s ultimate goal was to establish a Game Reserve within the unique surroundings of “Fynbos” habitation and to give people the opportunity of living in the wild, not just as a visitor. The original idea was built around a model that would function as a Game Reserve with a residential footprint, rather than a Tourist attraction only.

Uniqueness of the Accommodation

The Fynbos Villas and owners clubhouse or lodge were made available in 2009, and Kwena Lodge opened for business in May 2010. As developers, they preferred to construct the Fynbos Villas before developing the Lodge, thereby limiting the movement of construction vehicles within the Reserve at one time.

Of the 96 residential freehold title plots on the reserve, a third are developed into beautiful bush houses with an additional 14 luxury suites at Kwena Lodge. A rental pool agreement was established with some Villa Owners, making their private villas available as part of the Hotel inventory for accommodation purposes.

Bush Villas – There are 12 spacious 3 and 4 bedroom bush villas which can be rented on various packages from self-catering to full inclusive of all meals and game drives. They are luxuriously spacious, well equipped and privately situated with spectacular uninterrupted views from their expansive decks.

The affordability and ability to travel as a family in a wildlife reserve is rare as many safari lodges are not child friendly due to malaria and accommodation that is only suited to couples.

Gondwana provides lodge suites for individuals and couples and the bush villas for family and group accommodation.

Kwena Lodge - The deluxe accommodation offered at the Kwena Lodge reflects a modern and luxurious twist on a traditional Khoi-San beehive hut and portrays the character of the chic and sophisticated yet rustic Kwena Lodge facilities.

These luxury chalets are all decorated with insignia related to the nomadic Cape herders’ era – the first man recorded in the Southern Cape area. The 14 open plan suites are nestled into the spectacular surrounds with 180-degree views, sky lights for star gazing and clay pot fireplaces to keep guests warm upon returning from an evening game drive.

The main facilities at the lodge are the elegant dining room, the lounge and bar, reception, spa and curio shop and its beautiful pool area – offering guests attentive service, delicious cuisine, inspiring interiors, dedicated service of expert game rangers, and an array of activities including exhilarating game drives, mountain biking and fishing in the 1000 hectare walking area, and the popular Junior Ranger program for children.

What makes Gondwana so unique?

Gondwana Game Reserve is the only Big 5 Fynbos Game Reserve in the World, and the only free roaming Big 5 Reserve in the Southern Cape.

The accumulative road distance within the reserve is well in excess of 350km.

The average game drive is between 26km and 30km - a drive covering a variety of terrains and takes almost three hours. The Sunday afternoon nap of the male lion caught guests by surprise.

Not more that 7-8 meters away from the vehicle, was the male lion slowly but surely awakening from his afternoon sleep. Suddenly a big yawn followed by a loud roar – calling his mate, the lion slowly lifted his body, extended his stretch and walked away. The male lion’s roar was heard throughout the night and early morning.

An early morning game drive was announced with a wake-up call well before daybreak. A male lion surprised us once again on the early morning drive as he was strolling down a roadway just a kilometer from the lodge, and still looking for a female.

Watching the sunrise was a spectacular experience! After watching the giraffes for some time, the ranger spotted an elephant on a hill. He followed the elephants and took us up the hill with the 4x4 and after twenty minutes of climbing we saw the most beautiful picture of a herd of elephants, including two baby elephants with the Outeniqua Mountains as backdrop.

Conservation Program

The conservation team on the Reserve follows a strict management plan to maintain the “Fynbos” through alien tree eradication, a controlled burning program and soil erosion control. The commercial entity is to drive funding to assist with the conservation. The newly established Gondwana Conservation Foundation is a non profit organization protecting endangered flora and fauna as well as providing conservation education to the local youths and empowerment opportunities for the local population.

Its Rainbow Rhino Initiative has a 10 year plan of introducing 165 individual rhino into reserves across Africa and 108 trained anti-poaching soldiers. Through the use of a state of the art anti-poaching training facility and utilizing various technologies to enhance anti-poaching methods, the project ensures that rhino calves will be born into a safe environment. Within this period it is estimated that over 550 rhino will be protected through the foundation’s trained soldiers.

Facilities in the Area

World-class tourist facilities and attractions on Gondwana’s doorstep include championship golf courses at Pinnacle Point, Pezula, Oubaai and Fancourt, followed by swimming and surfing beaches and a variety of activities in Mossel Bay, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Gondwana Game Reserve, located on the Garden Route, shares the route’s idyllic climate; second most moderate in the world, and is Malaria-free, offering prime year round game viewing.

For more info on winter specials contact 044 333 0200 www.gondwanagr.co.za

PAGE 6

COMMUNITY

THE NEWSPAPER

CREATING A BETTER FUTURE FOR SIR LOWRY’S PASS VILLAGE Henk Maris, visionary and philanthropist has travelled the world extensively, and has witnessed poverty and hardship in many countries. As a Ship Engineer Henk visited Cape Town for the first time in 1960, and fell in love with the beauty of Cape nature.

Tragically, to date, almost six years later with a capital investment of almost R100 million, Henk Maris has not received the approved plans back from local authorities enabling him to commence the construction of the Water Bottling Plant.

Henk Maris, 75 year old, born in The Netherlands, took interest in a farm in the Knorhoek area, situated on the slopes of the Hottentots Holland Mountain above Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, near Somerset West with a strong Historic Heritage element. To Henk, South Africa is the most beautiful country in the world.

Historical Heritage

Educational Support

The property has a great historical heritage. British and Dutch settlers built the first rudimentary pass in 1660, called the Hottentots Holland Kloof Pass. From 1788 through 1795 Jan de Vos served as the Cloevermaker, or tollkeeper, of the pass. In 1795 he established an Inn for travellers at the foot of the pass. The Inn buildings have since deteriorated, but the remains of the toll house are still standing. Records show that by 1821 almost 4 500 wagons used the pass every year as a gateway to access the interior.

While awaiting approval of the building plans for the construction of the Water Bottling Plant, Henk Maris, believing in the integrity of the local authority, set forth his vision and engaged with various parties to establish an educational program at the Sir Lowry’s Pass Primary School.

This program includes the donation of 50 computers which is to be supplied by ABB Power Systems, a Swiss company with an official subsidiary, ABB SA Power Systems (Pty) Ltd. He furthermore secured a twenty year free internet facility supplied by, Snowball for the exclusive use by scholars at the Sir Lowry’s Pass Primary School. At the time of this interview, Snowball was installing electronic equipment to their antenna on the Hottentots Holland Mountain within the boundaries of Henk Maris’ property which will shortly provide the direct internet connection to the Sir Lowry’s Pass Primary School.

With the supply of the computers to the Sir Lowry’s Pass Primary School selected computer programs will also be made available for extended scholastic education.

Over and above, Henk will also introduce a specially designed educational software program to assist those who had never attended any school. This program is specially designed to stimulate the desire to better education and secure an improved lifestyle for the inhabitants of Sir Lowry’s Pass Village. He believes that by educating people they would immediately act intellectual and improve their own lifestyle.

Support by the Local Community

The deep ruts left by heavy wagons being dragged over the mountains can still be seen today.

In 2014 over 5400 Sir Lowry’s Pass residents pledged their support for the proposed Casa Maris development of Henk Maris by allowing community leaders to hand over letters of support to the local authorities on their behalf.

Henk Maris has through the years witnessed the local authorities’ approach with regard to other impoverished communities in the Western Cape, and the millions advanced toward them for education, sport facilities, housing and many more. This action leaves him stone cold! Why is his input restricted by officials who have no compassion for the sufferings of those living in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, not to mention the circumstances these children are exposed to under the present economic climate?

The Newspaper, having viewed the documentation provided by Henk Maris believe there is a solution to resolve this temporary setback.

The social upliftment program devised by Henk will ensure permanent employment to 300 workers with additional employment to 1500 construction workers.

Zoning and Approval Henk’s decision to buy the farm was based on many considerations, but the major factor was that the property already obtained specific zoning rights approved by the local authorities in 1996 to construct a water bottling facility.

Before Henk purchased the farm, he wanted confirmation from local authorities to make sure that the legal status with regard to the zoning rights would remain approved should the property change hands from the seller, being Parmalat to himself. Henk received a letter dated 22 October 2007 from the local authority that the zoning rights were approved.

Based on confirmation received that the zoning rights was legally approved and executable, Henk became the new owner of the beautiful property in 2007 with unlimited possibilities to expand. He immediately made the farm his second home.

Henk could now live his vision as philanthropist and could improve the quality of life for the local community in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village by creating job opportunities. He believed that through extensive planning it would all be possible.

During 2009 the Environmental Management Plan as submitted was also approved. Henk Maris appointed an architect, had building plans drafted, submitted the plans and paid the required scrutiny fees.

Further to the approved Water Bottling Plant Henk Maris also filed a proposal for the development of an Eco Estate with 148 houses, a Boutique Hotel with 15 - 20 rooms, a Conference Centre, and the “Tolhuis,” a National Monument, to feature as a Restaurant.

In order to create a steady flow of capital to support his vision with regard to the upliftment of a poor community, he needs to secure a steady capital income through the production and sales of the Purified Bottled Water. This can only be achieved once construction of the Water Bottling Plant is concluded, but it can only commence once the plans are approved.

Photo from Left to Right - Edward Carelse (Acting Deputy Sir Lowry's Pass Primary School), Henk Maris & Eugene van der Merwe (Snowball)

His social upliftment program will also provide local children with first class educational computer programs, not to mention the input to educate those who have never had that opportunity to be schooled, and who will now for the first time be educated with the latest that computer technology can provide.

It is now the time to support those in favour of social upliftment and make South Africa a better home for all!

For more information contact admin@bezweni.co.za or visit www.bezweni.co.za

THE NEWSPAPER

ENVIRONMENTAL

PAGE 7

SOLVING TOMORROW’S WATER SHORTAGES TODAY Maskam Water is the importer of a wide range of water related products from the USA and Europe, providing customers with turn-key water solutions. The word ‘Maskam’ means, “Give me Water,” a Koi San expression identifying the highest tip of the Matzikama Mountains in Namaqualand.

Maskam Water was founded by Gerhard Cronje in 2010 after certain requirements by specific customers in his irrigation business could not be fulfilled within the local irrigation industry.

Maskam Water presently provides a variety of water purification systems to purify anything from drinking water to borehole water.

Solar Booster Pumps Maskam Water is the only South African Company that import surface solar booster pumps.

These included decentralized sewerage treatment systems which means, treating water not connected to a municipal grid, farms, developments, or even new infrastructure.

Gerhard soon discovered that there were many more setbacks with the supply of pure water - which created many opportunities for Maskam Water in the local, as well as the African market.

Maskam Water does not manufacture any product relative to customer demand, but rather focus on the import of fine quality products that is tested and carries the appropriate guarantee. Therefore, Maskam Water’s loyalty is toward the end user, and the company pride on satisfying the customer’s needs at all times.

Gerhard, coming from an engineering background, has always engaged in finding alternative solutions to the nature of any enquiry, or even pin pointing solutions to resolve the problem caused by the demand.

Waste water treatment has become a great concern in South Africa and the African continent. Fifty to sixty years ago discharging waste water underground was acceptable and the norm as there was more than enough virgin soil to absorb the waste water.

Today this phenomenon has changed drastically, leaving soil unsuitable for filtration as the contaminated waste water filters through the soil into underground aquifers and trickle through to bore holes. Contaminated soil causes decease and illness among end users who drink contaminated water that could not be purified through nature’s natural filtration system.

It is a heartbreaking revelation! The quality of potable water in almost all South Africa’s bore holes, rivers and catchment areas are all basically infiltrated with some form of contamination through the unsolicited behaviour of its inhabitants stationed alongside these catchment areas.

Water affairs South Africa has a huge challenge in securing the availability of fresh water.

Statistics published by the Department of Water Affairs and Sanitation reveals that all the dams within South Africa are far too small to accommodate its increasing water demands. Added to this, statistics also prove that the annual rainfall is limited.

How to manage potable water?

The consumer needs to examine how to maximize the usage of potable water, and once used, be advised how to recycle it for a second or even a third time.

To Maskam Water, the introduction of the Clarus Fusion System became the answer in resolving challenges on the issue. Maskam Water is able to reduce pollution by offering the solution to extend the availability of water up to three times its normal usage.

This they achieved by directing purified water into the building, treating the waste water from the building, and re-using the same water on the washbay, before treating it the third time for irrigation purposes.

Maskam Water extended its research program by introducing Green Technology.

The Blue Lagoon product is provided to treat swimming pool water, and once fitted, the traditional use of chlorine and salt is no longer required.

From a health perspective the water is healthier, and from an environmental point of view there is no further pollution of water associated with salt or chlorine.

Therefore, backwash water can now safely be used in the garden and no water is wasted.

There are many companies that supply submersible and borehole pumps which run off solar panels, while Maskam Water’s solar booster pumps run directly off PV or battery - with no controllers or electronics involved.

Air Purifier versus Sinusitis Another product in the Maskam range is the Aetaire manufactured by Blue Lagoon. It is an air purifier that restricts respiratory allergies. 90% of the air is filtered; disinfected and ionized and therefore prevents post nasal drip. It also builds up body resistance and enhances productiveness. The Aetaire filters pollens and dust mites, and kills all forms of viruses and bacteria in the air – a must for corporate use as it reduces sick leave and enhances productivity within the corporate environment.

Maskam Water selectively arranged its product range to supply the African Market at large, and continuously seeks the latest technology internationally.

African Market at large How will Maskam Water service a market of this magnitude?

Gerhard decided to invest in local business, creating local wealth.

He established Maskam Water Dealerships all over the African Continent, United Arab Emirates, and Mauritius.

Maskam Water has plants fitted with Zoeller pumps in more than ten countries in Africa. Maskam Water Dealers perform installations, and provide its customers with back-up service.

The Maskam Water Dealer is an existing business man in the area identified by Maskam Water with vision to convey the Maskam Water product potential.

These Dealers are all under contract and carry stock and parts to fulfill market demand.

The sale of products create local wealth, local jobs and reflects a business profile beneficial to all parties.

Maskam Water has now replaced the corporate image by becoming a hands-on Dealership on the customer’s doorstep - able to provide both product and back-up support at all times.

For more information contact 08612 WATER (92837) or +27 21 988 8807 or email: info@maskam.co.za or visit www.maskamwater.com

PAGE 8

TOURISM

City Walk Kick-Starts

New Storytelling Route for Cape Town CBD Cape Town’s CBD was at play on 18 April 2015 as the first ever City Walk Saturdays was launched by the Cape Town Partnership.

The lively event featured Capoeira, tango and swing dance sessions, a tranquillity zone with meditation and yoga, jumping castles and kids storytelling time.

Skateboarders whizzed through the space and curious squirrels watched as giant scrabble and pavement chalk unfolded.

Onlookers were treated to special sound effects of the Sound Project and puppets entertained people along the route. Mime artists posed and a street studio by Here Be Dragons set the mood with sound.

The City Walk is a new storytelling route that encompasses the Company’s Gardens, St George’s Mall and Fanwalk.

It will be activated every third Saturday of the month with a City Walk Saturday – when events, installations, experimental ideas and art will create a buzz in the area.

The City Walk aims to surface elements like history, culture, public art and food as well as the formal and informal retail that are already on the walk, but the Cape Town Partnership also hopes that citizens will come forward to give different perspectives along the walk.

“The City Walk must be a space in which people can see themselves and be part of creating and sharing their own stories.”

“It’s about creating a space where conversations can happen and connections can be made between a diversity of people,” says Cape Town Partnership’s, Bulelwa MakalimaNgewana.

Locals and visitors will be able to access the City Walk area’s cultural, architectural and historical landmarks through the route map (available at outlets along the way and through Cape Town Tourism) and way-finding signs at all times (not just limited to City Walk Saturdays).

Local tour guides have also come on board to recognise the City Walk and it has been included into the Cape Town Big 6, which is now the Cape Town Big 7.

The hashtag #walkcapetown trended at number one in South Africa on Saturday 18 April.

Capetonians are encouraged to gather their families, friends and community groups to participate in the City Walk Saturday events that will be happening once a month. The next ones take place on 16 May and then 20 June from 10am to 2pm. rain or shine. The open event is free of charge and will see additional activations and entertainment happening along the route.

For more information visit www.capetownpartnership.co.za

UAE - Western Cape

THE NEWSPAPER

WTM® Africa 2015 WTM® Africa 2015 organised by Thebe Reed Exhibitions took place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 15-17 April.

WTM® Africa 2015 are pleased to announce that 2015 visitor numbers saw an increase of over 18% on last year's inaugural show figures. These figures indicate that Africa's largest inbound and outbound b2b exhibition is continuing to grow at a phenomenal rate with widespread local, regional and international interest with a series of debates, seminars, talks from a vast array of speakers covering a wide variety of interesting travel industry related topics.

Harbour Wall - Mossel Bay’s Newest Tourism Hub

The opening of a number of new attractions - and the continuing success of existing businesses that have occupied the area for some time - have facilitated to turn Mossel Bay’s harbour wall into the town’s newest tourism hub.

“The area has become a busy and bustling destination packed with activities and restaurants,” said Mossel Bay Tourism board member, Fred Orban.

He said that growth has been organic - which has resulted in an authentic feel that captures the spirit of harbours and small ports around the world.

The harbour wall - officially Quay 4 of the National Port Authority’s Port of Mossel Bay is situated outside the port’s security area, and stretches from the Mossel Bay Yacht & Boat Club at Munroe’s Bay to the Church Street (North-West) entrance to the harbour.

Partnerships Strengthened

Economic Opportunities Minister Alan Winde’s mission to the United Arab Emirates has boosted bilateral relations between the regions.

Following Minister Winde’s visit to the UAE, plans have been put in place to strengthen partnerships in Project Khulisa’s areas of strategic focus, including increasing exports of Western Cape products and boosting tourism.

Minister Winde said several steps have been tabled to increase the trade of horses between the two regions, taking into account the barriers linked to African Horse Sickness.

“We are investigating the establishment of a lock-down zone in the province, possibly at the Kenilworth Race Course.

“This facility would serve as a quarantine, transit and export station, which will allow the Western Cape to export directly to the world.”

“Currently, our horses are exported via Mauritius where they are quarantined, adding red tape and financial costs to the process.”

“During my meetings, we also discussed setting up a task team to investigate growing the size of the province’s most prestigious horse racing events.

“There is a demand for our horses which are known to be excellent performers in competitions. The horse export industry is worth over R200 million and there is potential to grow to R1 billion if we put the right measures in place,” said Minister Winde.

Later this month, a high level delegation from the UAE will visit the Western Cape to discuss a set of agreeable protocols with the province’s vets.

“These discussions are likely to include the building of an appropriate quarantine station. Dubai is already set to build a quarantine station at the Al Maktoum airport, which would be able to receive our horses.”

In the tourism sector, Minister Winde also met with several key players in order to better understand this market with a view to growing it. This included with the CEO of the Dubai tourism authority, Kerzner International and leading outbound operators promoting our region.

Key opportunities include highlighting the strength of our destination for family and adventure tourism. The Western Cape also offers an ideal cooler climate for travellers from the UAE during that country’s summer months.

Photo Credit - Mossel Bay Tourism

Facilities on the harbour wall include restaurants (The Sea Gypsy Café, Kaai 4 Braai Restaurant, and The London Bus Fish & Chips Company); the Mossel Bay Oyster Bar; Electrodive Scuba; and departure points for Mossel Bay Deep Sea Fishing Adventures, Seven Seas Pleasure Cruises’ catamaran cruises and high speed rubber duck excursions, White Shark Africa’s cage diving boat, and the yacht Romonza - which holds the permit for boat-based whale watching in Mossel Bay. Many of the businesses in the area are members of the Mossel Bay Linefish Association - a company that sees to the interest of commercial and social fishers, and related businesses that use the harbour wall and its facilities.

The Yacht Club - which is renowned for its hospitality - offers social facilities for members and visiting yachtsmen (braais, a lapa, The Café on the Bay Restaurant); a slipway for yachts and fishing boats; and various sections that cater for sailors, fishermen, kayakers, and scuba divers. The Club also manages a development sailing school.

Mr. Orban said that the activities on the harbour wall fulfil an important need in Mossel Bay, since they provide all-year round entertainment for locals and visitors alike.

since

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Visit us: Spier Wine Farm @spierwinefarm #spiermemories t: 021 809 1100 www.spier.co.za

Q UA RT E R LY N E W S PA P E R

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A recipe for a hearty warm leek and potato soup from Charl Coetzee, the head chef at Eight restaurant.

WELCOME TO THE SPIER WERF If you go down to the Werf today, you’re sure of a big surprise: oak trees; rolling lawn; a kitchen garden bursting with fruits and vegetables. And all surrounded by the dazzling embrace of Cape Dutch buildings.

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21 Gables Range, a celebration of Spier’s winemaking heritage.

Find out what’s happening on the farm this quarter.

THE WERF RESTORATION

Welcome to Spier’s newly renovated farmyard – the historic heart of a farm that can claim a recorded history dating all the way back to 1692. Once home to moyo restaurant, the Werf was lovingly restored in late 2014.

“We’re delighted that picnickers and visitors to our restaurants are able once again to laze on the Werf’s lawns under the ancient oak trees, enjoying views of the historical buildings which surround them,” says Mariota Enthoven, daughter of Dick Enthoven who bought Spier in 1993.

A M E T I C U L O U S R E S T O R AT I O N After the closure of moyo restaurant, the Werf and some of the buildings adjoining it were in need of repairs. Fast-growing alien hedges, concrete beds, gravel and some sections of paving that formed part of the outdoor restaurant were removed. Extensive patches of grass were planted and tree specialists administered some care to the old oak trees.

Restoration work was done to two structures. The first is the Jonkershuis, which is made up of three buildings. The first is believed to have been the living quarters of the eldest son, farm manager or widowed mother of Albertus Myburgh who built it in 1778. Research by archaeologist Hennie Vos suggests that the second structure, built in 1817, was an outbuilding used for storage and for keeping animals. The third building is an extension built in the late 20th century.

The second structure requiring changes is thought to have been the Old Kitchen built by the Van der Byl family in 1812. It was important for Spier to use methods that were historically appropriate when restoring these structures. Lime-plastering was applied to damaged sections of the walls (better suited to cover the brickwork than modern cement-based plaster) and walls were also painted with limewash. Both lime-plastering and limewashing were techniques used at the time of the buildings’ construction. Specialists also did extensive restoration of timber work, including ceilings windows, frames and doors.

Visitors can now enjoy lazing on the lawns of the newly restored Werf — the historic heart of Spier Farm.

O L D S PA C E , N E W B E G I N N I N G S The aim of the restoration has been to transform the space into one that is both relevant and sensitive to its historical uses – reconnecting the Werf to its past so that it once more becomes a hub of activity, where agriculture, artisan food and creativity find expression.

Over the past few months, the Werf and its adjoining buildings has hosted a number of exciting offerings. During the summer, the Jonkershuis was home to a wine bar as well as Lutge, a pop-up gal-

FA R M FR E E D OM

2 NIGH TS , 2 A DU LTS & 2 CH ILDREN

R 2320 P ER NIGHT The farm air. Peace. Quiet. Getting out and doing things together.

On Spier Farm being a family is easy. Your children are made to feel welcome, and we have plenty to keep them happy. And even more to stir up their sense of wonder.

Step into the world of Eagle Encounters, have a picnic and a proper farm dinner; farm-to-table eating at Eight Restaurant. A relaxed round of wine tasting.

Fun grape juice tasting for the children. Ice-creams at Eight-to-Go. All this for all of you, all included.

VALID UNTIL 31 JULY 2015

lery showcasing furniture made using reclaimed antique wood as well as ceramics and art by Cape creatives. The Old Kitchen hosted Décor-Z, a collaborative exhibition curated by internationally acclaimed artist Liza Grobler. The show invited visitors to explore its playful, offbeat take on interior spaces and featured collaborations with leading artists that included Barbara Wildenboer, Jeanne Hoffman and Daniella Mooney.

The Werf’s old rose garden has been transformed into a food garden with herbs, fruit and vegetables. These supply Eight, Spier’s farm-to-table restaurant, and the Spier Hotel. The plants are being grown according to organic and biodynamic principles — without the use of pesticides and artificial fertilisers.

“The Werf is our heart, and its restoration is the beginning of a new chapter in the story of this historic space,” says Mariota. “The artisanal experiences we offer visitors here will evolve as we reconnect with our roots, inspired by how things were done in the past – but in a way that is relevant to contemporary life. Whatever we do here, we want it to be underscored by integrity and love – and accessible to all.”

Book: reservations@spier.co.za or 021 809 1100. / PA G E 1

GARDEN J O H N ’S FOOD GARDEN The Zimbabwean-born John Turner is in charge of Spier’s food garden in the Werf. Planted in September last year, it is farmed biodynamically, without the use of pesticides or artificial fertiliser. There are roughly 75 different species of herbs, fruit trees and vegetables growing – these are used by Eight restaurant and the Spier Hotel.

Feeling inspired? Farmer John shares his tips for you to use when starting your own food garden at home.

1. Before you start, think carefully about the garden’s layout: factor in the distribution of sunlight (orientation and aspect), access (paths and walkways), distribution of water (irrigation systems), wind (windbreaks and sheltered sites). Take note of unique niches such as hot spots, shady areas, areas prone to wind or frost, and where you should place longstanding perennial plants (fruit trees or other perennial shrubs or herbs).

2. Avoid too much deep digging (unless absolutely necessary) as this disturbs soil life and increases oxidation of soil organic matter. Rather build soil upwards, creating raised/boxed beds.

3. Keep soil covered as much as possible with living groundcovers or non-living organic mulch (straw, bark, or leaves).

4. Have regular supply of compost to keep your soil alive and full of vitality. If you don’t have space for a conventional compost heap, set up a worm farm – this takes up very little space and is an efficient way to recycle kitchen and garden waste

material. The liquid “tea” from the worms can be diluted and used as a foliar spray on your plants.

The worm casts can also be used for raising seedlings, on beds, and to make a transplanting paste.

5. Timing is key. Plant in late September/early October for summer or warmth dependent crops (cucumbers, beans, brinjal, peppers, tomatoes, courgettes, melons, maize, squashes and pumpkins). Plant in March/early April for cool season crops (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, coriander, English spinach, kale, leeks, onions, oriental greens and rocket). A few varieties can be grown throughout the year – such as carrots, beets and Swiss chard. Lettuces usually do best during Spring and Autumn.

6. Monocultures are unnatural and there is increasing evidence to show that companion planting (when you plant different species next to each other) improves the flavour of your vegetables and reduces pest problems. For example, plant tomatoes with carrots, onions and basil; plant Swiss chard spinach and beetroot with beans in the summer or onions in the winter; the cabbage family (brassicas) with celery, onions/leeks and aromatic herbs.

7. Maximise vertical space: locate tall crops in the middle of growing areas, and shorter plants on edges.

8. Use perennial/biennial culinary herbs on edges of growing areas for easy access and to give structure to growing areas.

9. Think of your garden as an ecosystem rather than simply as a vegetable plot. Create refuges for beneficial pest predators. Hedges (rosemary, sages and lemon verbena are some possibilities) provide a home for ladybirds, praying mantises, spiders, wasps and chameleons. Small cairns of rocks/ stones encourage lizards and toads. For the more adventurous, a bat house provides guano and the bats themselves devour large numbers of moths and nuisance flying insects.

10. Try to water your garden in the evening where possible. Plants have been shown to “drink” between 15.00 and 03.00 so this practice is aligned to natural cycles and also greatly reduces loss by evaporation.

11. Try to follow a sequence of crop rotation.

Start with leaf crops (cabbage, spinach, lettuce), then root crops (beetroot, carrots, onions, potatoes, radish, and turnips), then fruit crops (maize, cucumbers, courgettes, brinjal, peppers, tomatoes, melons, squashes and pumpkins), and lastly legumes (all the many bean varieties or, in winter, peas and broad beans).

W E D D I NG S AT S P I E R Wedding season at Spier is now officially open! After extensive restoration of The Werf, discerning couples from around the globe can now entertain their guests in our beautiful gardens, surrounded by historic buildings.

Hannes Loubser, our wedding specialist with almost ten years of bespoke wedding planning experience, joined our team in January 2015.

“Spier boasts all the right qualities and facilities to host unforgettable celebrations,” Hannes says. In the past few months Spier has hosted four unique weddings, each using different areas of the farm.

“By drawing on the talent, passion and values of the Spier family, we are able to meet and exceed the needs of lovebirds looking for an unrivalled wedding experience,” Hannes says. “Every wedding we do here is an incredibly special and personal experience, tailor-made to suit each couple.”

Hannes suggests inviting all your guests to stay over at the Spier Hotel. You’ll be able to wow them for a whole weekend with picnics, spa treatments, and wine tasting; they can also explore Spier’s vineyards and art collections on foot or bicycle.

BOOK NOW h annesl@sp

ier.co.za

Pictured here: Spanish bride Cristina Armesto crosses the bridge into a new future in the arms of her beau, Shaun Stanley. Picture: www.joannstokes.com

/ PA G E 2

FOOD WARM LEEK & POTATO SOUP Accompanied by fried dumplings SOUP Ingredients: 500g potato peeled and cut in cubes 400g leek roughly chopped and thoroughly washed 20g garlic chopped 1l veg stock 350ml cream 15g savory (or substitute with thyme) 65g and 50g butter 40g spring onion finely sliced 1 1⁄2 tbls lemon juice freshly squeezed Black pepper and salt to taste

CHARL COETZEE, The head chef at our farm-to-table restaurant, Eight, has created this warm winter dish inspired by the fresh produce from the Werf’s food garden.

Method: Sweat leeks and savory in 65g butter over medium heat for 10 min. Avoid browning.

Add in potato and garlic and cook for 5 min.

Cover with stock and simmer for 35 min.

Pour in cream and bring to the boil.

Place in a liquidiser and while blending add the 50g butter.

Strain through a fine sieve and add lemon juice and seasoning.

Serve in a warm soup bowl topped with some dumplings and finely sliced spring onion.

DUMPLINGS

Eight is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 16:30 for breakfast, lunch and tea. The restaurant is also available for private functions.

Call 021 809 1188 to make a reservation.

Ingredients:

* CLOS ED F O R DI NNE R DUR I NG WI NTE R

100g cooked potato mashed with salt 25g flour 80g mizuna finely chopped (or substitute with rocket) 1 egg yolk 80g gruyere cheese cut into small cubes Extra flour, egg and bread crumbs to coat dumplings Method: Mix potato, flour, egg, mizuna and gruyere together.

Shape into small logs.

Dip in flour, egg then bread crumbs and place in the fridge.

Just before serving, deep fry until golden and drain on kitchen towel.

Garnish soup with dumplings

Eight serves up wholesome, delicious food made lovingly with ingredients sourced from the Spier farm or close by.

This includes fresh produce sourced from our food garden and grass-fed beef reared by Farmer Angus on Spier’s pastures.

/ PA G E 3

WINE A H E R I TA G E O F Q UA L I T Y : T H E 2 1 G A B L E S R A N G E Of all the historic farms in the Cape, Spier is blessed with the greatest number of historic Cape Dutch gables – each of them beautifully preserved. The 21 Gables range honours this unique architectural feature and also celebrates Spier’s pioneering contribution to South Africa’s rich winemaking history, which dates all the way back to the early 1700s. The 21 Gables wines – Pinotage, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon – are each richly expressive of their terroir.

21 GABLES Sauvignon Blanc 2014

21 GABLES Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

Made with grapes grown on the slopes of the Tygerberg Hills, this bold, aromatic wine has pale-straw colour with lime rim edges. There are intense flavours of gooseberries, green fig leaves and hints of fresh grassiness. It is concentrated and richly textured, with a fresh, green finish.

Made with grapes grown on the slopes of the Helderberg mountains in Stellenbosch, this full-bodied wine has a concentrated structure and an opulent finish. There is an abundance of cassis and black cherry flavours, with concentrated oak aromas of toast and pencil lead.

Enjoy with: Grilled salmon with roasted beets and rocket, or poached shrimp with a creamy Dijon sauce.

Enjoy with: Chargrilled sirloin or rib eye. Alternatively serve with a rich oxtail or lamb shank stew.

Awards: Double gold – 2014 Veritas Awards

Awards: Silver - 2014 Decanter World Wine Awards; bronze - 2014 International Wine Challenge; bronze - 2014 Global Cabernet Sauvignon Masters; silver - 2014 International Wine and Spirits Competition; gold - 2014 Veritas Awards

21 GABLES Chenin Blanc 2013

21 GABLES Pinotage 2012

Made with grapes grown on the slopes of the Tygerberg Hills, this wine is pale gold with a lemon-rind colour rim. There are soft aromas of dried apricots with an oak and vanilla undertow. On the palate, there are white fleshed peaches, almond paste and windfall oranges.

Made with grapes grown in Stellenbosch, this dark red wine has a vibrant red hue and flavours of caramelised black cherries, hints of dark spice and dark chocolate. The full-bodied palate has a smooth entry followed by fruit and velvety tannins.

Enjoy with: Mature beef, venison, lamb and ostrich dishes with berry jus or strong cheese.

Enjoy with: Crisp pork belly, duck breast with honey and spices or pickled fish.

Awards: Double gold – 2014 Veritas Awards; Trophy for Best New World Wine and Best South African wine – 2014 17th Japan Wine Challenge; silver medals at Concours Mondial, International Wine Challenge, International Wine and Spirits competition and the MUNDUS VINI Great International Wine Award

Awards: Double gold – 2014 Veritas Awards; silver – 2014 International Wine and Spirits competition; bronze – 2014 17th Japan Wine Challenge

Our wine tasting room is open daily for tastings from 10:00 to 16:30.

Sample a comprehensive selection of our award winning vintages; if you're feeling peckish, then order a pairing of delicious snacks.

Join our Wine Club which offers fantastic benefits, including discounts on our wine, hotel and farm-to-table restaurant, Eight, and invites to special events.

To become a member, purchase 12 bottles of wine upon sign up and another 24 bottles per year.

To find out more, contact the wine shop on 021 809 1143.

/ PA G E 5

EVENTS M AY

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BURGERS AND BLENDS

Ever dreamt of being a winemaker? Join our winemaker for the Burgers and Blends workshop on the first Saturday of every month.

We will share some of our blending secrets, and you’ll get to try your hand at blending your own wine, inspired by the award-winning Spier Creative Block 3 blend. You’ll also you have the opportunity to taste the recently launched Spier Signature blends. Our farm-to-table restaurant, Eight, will prepare its popular beef burger with gorgonzola, plum and pink peppercorn chutney served up with chips.

Where: Spier Tasting Room When: 17.30 Price: R195 per person

SUNDAY

SVETLANA DOES BROADWAY

Tuck into a four-course meal as you listen to Bulgarian opera singer Svetlana serenading you with much-loved musical numbers from the stage.

Where: Spier Hotel Restaurant When: 19.00 - 21.00 Price: R350 per person

Join one of our acclaimed winemakers at our farm-to-table restaurant, Eight, for a delicious four course meal paired with our flagship wines.

Where: Eight Price: R350 per person for food; R150 per person for wines

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21 GABLES DINNER

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Banish the winter blues with a hearty four-course dinner of soups paired with Spier’s red wines.

Where: Spier Hotel Restaurant Price: R180 per person (includes wine)

Where: Eight When: 9.30 – 12.00 Price: R155 per person

Spoil Dad to a carvery buffet with pasture reared meats and bio dynamic vegetables from our garden paired with our award winning wines.

Where: Spier Hotel Restaurant When: 18.30 Price: R275 per person

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FOOD AND WINE PAIRING

Where: Spier Hotel Conservatory When: 19.00 Price: R350 per person (includes a glass of wine per course)

This Mother's Day, grab a fancy hat and bring Mom to Spier Hotel for a magical Mad Hatter's Lunch where a delicious savoury buffet will be served, along with delectable desserts, tea and cupcakes.

This Mother's Day, make Mom feel like a queen by treating her to a Royal Breakfast at Eight. Celebrate this special day with bubbly on arrival, before tucking into the continental breakfast platters (including scrumptious mini scones and croissants etc.) as well as a full hot English hot breakfast.

FATHER’S DAY DINNER AT SPIER HOTEL

Join one of our wine educators for a delicious four-course meal paired with our award-winning wines from our premium 21 Gables and Creative Block ranges.

MOTHER'S DAY MAD HATTER'S LUNCH AT SPIER HOTEL

MOTHER'S DAY BREAKFAST AT EIGHT

Where: Spier Hotel Restaurant When: 09.00 - 11.00 Price: R185 per person (includes a glass of Spier Signature MCC or a Bloody Mary for Dad)

SOUP AND WINE PAIRING

MOTHER’S DAY

Where: Spier Hotel Restaurant When: 13.00 – 15.00 Price: R275 per person; R120 per kid under 12

Treat Dad to a meaty lunch at Eight, Spier’s farm-to-table restaurant – there’ll be plenty to choose from the grill, including steak, lamb chops and Farmer Angus McIntosh’s famous pasture-reared beef mince burger patties. The regular a la carte menu will also be available.

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FATHER’S DAY BRAAI AT EIGHT

Treat Dad to a gourmet breakfast burger at the Spier Hotel restaurant.

FRIDAY

FOOD AND WINE PAIRING AT EIGHT

FATHER’S DAY

FATHER’S DAY BREAKFAST

Where: Spier Hotel Conservatory When: 19:00 Price: R350 per person

MAY

JUNE

Where: Eight When: 18.30 Price: R195 per person

Enjoy a delicious four-course dinner paired with the award-winning 21 Gables range.

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FATHER’S DAY BRAAI NIGHT

Spoil Dad with a braai featuring all of his favourites from the grill.

JULY

TOUR DE FRANCE LAUNCH

Celebrate the launch of the Tour de France with snacks and drinks and other treats, as you watch a live-feed to the only African team participating in this year’s race, MTN Qhubeka. Reservations are essential; join our waiting list to receive further details.

Where: Spier Hotel Restaurant Price: R180

Where: Spier Hotel Restaurant When: on Fathers Day Price: R250 per person (includes a bottle of Spier Signature wine) Book: reservations@spier.co.za / 021 809 1100 / www.spier.co.za / PA G E 6

CONSCIOUS CONFERENCING AT SPIER

To participate in any of these Conscious Conferencing activities, contact conference@spier.co.za / 021 809 1100 / PA G E 7

Eight is a farm-to-table eating experience in a beautiful setting next to the Eerste River. Like its name, the restaurant is an expression of balance, cycles, harmony, infinity and abundance. The produce used at Eight is either grown on the farm or sourced from nearby farmers. Natural and organic ingredients are preferred and combined to create nourishing, healthy, and delicious food.

7. EIGHT RESTAURANT

Next door to Spier’s acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant, Eight to Go offers ready-to-eat food, lovingly prepared according to the same principles as Eight. Local, natural and organic produce is used wherever possible, and food grown on the Spier farm is preferred. Wholesome picnics and sandwiches are available to be enjoyed with a bottle of award-winning Spier wine on the lawns of the farm.

6. EIGHT TO GO AND PICNICS

5. WINE COLLECTION POINT

stunning views of the Helderberg mountains. Taste our flagship wine and premium wine ranges here.

VINEYARD TOURS

Join us on a guided Segway Tour!

www.segwaytours.co.za

Visit us at Spier Wine Farm, Baden Powell Drive (R310), Stellenbosch

12. AMPHITHEATRE

or combined, to seat 250 people. Conference rooms are adjacent to the Eerste River and have views of the Helderberg mountains.

16. SPIER HOTEL

Both the restaurant and wine bar strive to source the freshest available produce for the menus from a range of local suppliers and our farm.

t: 021 809 1157

For more information and bookings: spier@segwaytours.co.za www.segwaytours.co.za

Spier has an open air venue hosting artistic and corporate events with a capacity of 1100 people.

Spier’s Old Wine Cellar is South Africa’s oldest dated cellar building (1767).

10. OLD WINE CELLAR

The 1822 historic Manor House has recently gone through an extensive restoration and three different meeting rooms are available. In times when the owner lived at Spier, this building would have been the primary homestead. The building features artworks from the Spier Collection - one of the largest collections of contemporary South African art in the country.

15. SPIER HOTEL RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR

A boutique spa run by international experts, Camelot, is located at the Spier Hotel.

14. CAMELOT SPA

In 2007, Spier installed a pioneering centralised wastewater treatment plant which is the embodiment of our approach to waste management. It recycles 100% of our wastewater, treats it using only environmentally friendly methodology and the clean water is then used to irrigate the garden and grounds.

WALKS AND TRAILS - A walk around our gardens is a rejuvenating experience. The gardens are mostly indigenous and all plants are water-wise. Visit the Protea Walk on the south bank of the Eerste River.

ART - The spaces of the Spier Hotel and conferencing rooms are adorned with art from the Spier Collection - one of the most extensive collections of contemporary South African art in the country. Spier believes that the visual arts can provide both guests and staff with new insights, and challenge us to take a fresh look at our world and environment.

The 4-star Spier Hotel lies besides the calming waters of the Eerste River. The rooms are situated in village-style buildings grouped around six private courtyards, each with its own swimming pool in a design reminiscent of the Bo-Kaap or Mediterranean villages where pedestrians have right of way.

11. CONSCIOUS CONFERENCING

Enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail on the terrace with bar snacks, or breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Spier Hotel restaurant.

13. WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT

Conferencing includes an auditorium that seats 430 people and three breakaway rooms, which can be used separately,

9. MANOR HOUSE

Spier’s historic farmyard – the Werf – has been meticulously restored. Visitors can wander through the vegetable garden or relax on the lawn under ancient oak trees. The Werf is surrounded by beautiful Cape Dutch buildings which now host pop-up exhibitions and events.

8. THE WERF

FIND YOURSELF AT SPIER

1. EAGLE ENCOUNTERS At Eagle Encounters raptor rehabilitation centre, get up close and personal with birds of prey, and find out how these magnificent animals keep the Spier farm healthy and balanced.

2. CRAFT MARKET The craft market and craft shop at the Spier Hotel are projects of the Spier Craft Development Programme. Together they promote the work of more than 90 different craft enterprises, the majority of them black-owned and South African.

3. SEGWAY TOURS The Segway PT (Personal Transporter) is a two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicle. The tour is a beautiful glide through the farm to the vineyards with some interesting facts about Spier’s Protea Garden and wastewater treatment plant on the way.

4. WINE TASTING The wine tasting experience offers award-winning Spier wine paired with innovative food offerings. The stylish venue, on the banks of the popular Spier dam, has

THE NEWSPAPER

BREWERY

PAGE 9

THE “BEERGINNING” OF TIME Beer has been a preferred beverage since ancient times, amongst many cultures, genders and all ages, and so the same passion for this prodigious beverage has found its footprints here in Stellenbosch, the wine capital of the Western Cape.

Notably known as Stellenbrau, they are the first operational microbrewery in Stellenbosch, and this is where they share their vision and passion for this golden liquid that so many have enjoyed since the beginning of time, or perhaps the “Beerginning of time.”

WHY BEER – AND WHY STELLENBRAU? Because people drink it, love it, and for Stellenbrau – awesome to make.

Photo from Left - Brew Master Stephen de Jager and Stellenbrau CEO Deon Engelbrecht

The Stellenbrau team share a common goal of quality craftsmanship, product consistency and brilliant customer service. The Newspaper recently visited Stellenbrau where Stephen de Jager, the Brew Master explained how this luscious drink ends up inside your glass.

The beer making world is filled with possibilities; this is mainly due to an enormous variety of raw materials that’s available to the brewer. In beer they use Malted Barley, Water, Hops and Yeast, but everybody knows that version. Stephen explain how this all works together at Stellenbrau and how it affects the consumer’s experience as the gratified consumer of a Stellenbrau pint.

Quality of all raw materials is simple: What you put in, you’ll get out. If you put your trust in mediocre raw materials, you will simply get average beer.

That’s why Stephen believes in top quality raw materials in all sectors.

Malted Barley is obtained from Germany and provides consistent extraction results – a test to see if the conversion from starch to sugar of the grain is consistent with their specification. Hops is from local origin.

Yeast, the brewer’s best friend by far, is also the most secret. These little single cell organisms, of which they put millions in the wort, are actually the “beer makers.” That’s right; brewers create the perfect biological environment, the wort – the sugary liquid obtained from the mash, enough food and plenty of oxygen.

Then the yeast is pitched, and if they’re happy, produce the perfect batch of exceptional beer. The process however is a bit more complex, Stephen explains.

“There is a saying that water is your most important element in making beer, since it makes up 95% of the final product; I fairly say all raw materials are equally important in making a premium beer.

Stellenbrau’s water supply is quadruple filtered using trap filters for the first two stages, to capture any solid particles, and then the second two stages are activated carbon filters to eliminate chlorine and unwanted metallic elements in the water. This leaves them with the perfect balanced water conditions for optimal brewing,” Stephen says.

When taking a closer look at the process of brewing, it all starts with a thorough inspection on all raw materials to distinguish if it meets their strict requirements. Then follows the very important milling stage where they crush the malted barley open to expose the inner starch.

However, they do not mill the grains to a fine powder, they only crush open the kernels, since they believe they are not making mealie-meal or baking a bread, but rather, making beer. They also need the husk of the kernel to be just cracked and in whole condition. Once the malted barley has been milled, inspected and passed, they fill the mash tun – the vessel where the conversion of starch to sugar occurs with enough warm water to specification.

This water, also called strike water, will be at an exact temperature and volume.

The rakes inside this vessel are switched on and they mix in the crushed malted barley with the water.

The rakes help to gently and evenly mix the grist and water together. After mixing, they leave these two together to know each other better. The enzymes present in the malted barley starts converting the starches to sugars, or better known as maltose. After the set time in the mash tun and after continuous gravity tests – the concentration of sugar in the water followed by the pH tests, the Brew Master carries out an iodine test to obtain results of complete conversion of starch to sugar by the enzymes.

The next phase is called lautering; this is where they separate the sugary liquid, called the wort, from the grains in the mash tun, and it is important that the husks remain in a just-cracked condition. This is where it comes in very handy, the husks of the malted barley being dispersed throughout the mash acts as a natural filter.

Almost like mixing clay with rough sand.

All the grist lies on top of a finely perforated sieve-like false bottom that forms part of the “filter”. The wort is then circulated by pumping the strong wort from the bottom of the vessel to the top, mixing it. The wort is lautered via gravity and is collected in another vessel called the underback. The Brew Master also perform a step called sparging, where they add warm water to the grains during the lautering stage.

This is done to collect most of the sugars by “rinsing” the grains as the water runs through it.

The collected wort is now transferred to the boil kettle where the wort undergoes a vigorous boil. Boiling has few purposes namely to boil off DMS, due to evaporation achieve the correct original gravity, sterilize the wort and utilize the hop resins and oils for bitterness, taste and aroma.

After boiling they transfer the wort to the whirlpool where it circulates the wort to collect all the vegetal matter from the hops and coagulated proteins in the centre of the whirlpool, let it rest and then they drain the unwanted matter.

After a nice rest in the whirlpool, and drained, the wort is cooled from a temperature of between 90-100°C to the required temperature for pitching the yeast. While cooling the wort, oxygen is injected directly into the cooled wort. The yeast now acclimatises to their new home and starts metabolizing. The yeast chows away on the sugars, excretes alcohol (ethanol) and “farts” carbon dioxide (CO2).

This process is called fermentation, the actual beer making phase. The temperature of this process is electronically controlled and kept at the optimum fermentation temperature for the yeast to do its work.

Like all, when engaged in physical work they generate heat, the same with yeast, it generates heat and by the amounts they multiply, it heats up the beer, therefore they need cool the beer to the correct temperature.

Gravities, being the measurement of the amount of sugars left in the beer, are taken daily to monitor the progress of fermentation.

After fermentation they condition the beer; this is where colour and flavour development takes place and the yeast clean-up, the yeast literally cleans up after themselves by consuming by-products which it contributed during fermentation.

When this conditioning phase is completed, the Brew Master get the beer sparkling clear via two methods, their Craven Craft Lager is filtered while their Alumni Ale and Governor’s Red Rooibos Lager undergo the traditional method of Finings.

The final beer undergoes various tests to determine if the beer meets Stellenbrau’s strict requirements and guidelines after which they package their beautifully hand crafted product for the customer’s sincere enjoyment.

For more information contact Jaco on 021 8833622 or info@stellenbrau.co.za visit www.stellenbrau.co.za

PAGE 10

FOOD & WINE

Food & Hospitality World Africa Taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) 20-22 May 2015, FHWA is the African food and hospitality industry’s premier business networking conference and exhibition.

A product of Italian owned Fiera Milano Exhibitions, 2015 will be the 2nd edition of this show that distinguishes itself by its business matchmaking offering and the number of international buyers its brings to the event.

A new addition for the year’s FHWA is the “Food for Thought” Conference where necessary and critical food industry information will be presented by leading industry experts. Some of the subjects to be debated are food security, food safety, sustainability and how to do business in Africa.

THE NEWSPAPER

Taste of Cape Town celebrated 8th anniversary!

Taste of Cape Town returned to Cape Town 10 – 12 April 2015 for a three day extravaganza supported by restaurants, with wineries displaying their various cultivars to choose from in the spacious outdoor setting of the Green Point Cricket Club.

Chefs from various restaurants created special menus in starter sized dishes for the occasion, designed to reflect their philosophy and to showcase seasonal and quality ingredients in an unbeatable gourmet setting providing guests with the country’s finest food on offer.

Visitors sampled and shopped in the laid back atmosphere of a boutique food market with a wide range of exhibitors and artisan producers including Daniela’s hand crafted macaroons, handcrafted plant-based Organic Superfood Protein Shake from Wazoogles, delicious pickles and chutneys from Little Herb Garden, Eighteen Curesmiths, Oryx Desert Salt, Queen of Tarts and many more.

Key feature areas at this year’s FHWA include World of Wines, Africa Rising, Halaal Pavilion and a specialised Buyers Program whereby the DTI is bringing around 30 international buyers to come discover what is new and exciting in the South African food and beverage world. FHWA is the gateway to present, promote and grow your brand/service/product. With the world focus on Africa there is no better place to do business.

For more information visit www.foodhospitalityworld.co.za

Good Food & Wine Show The Good Food & Wine Show takes place 21-24 May at CTICC Cape Town with International draw-cards The Cake Boss, Buddy Valastro and MasterChef Australia judge, chef and author, Matt Preston.

The Good Food & Wine Show has always been associated with the best chefs and has attracted celebrity chefs from all over the world, but this year South Africa’s most popular consumer show is going to be shining an even brighter light on our local chefs and bringing into focus the country’s local food regions and our local foodie celebrities. For example, a line-up of local radio personalities, comics, poets, actors and performance artists will all be engaging with food, playing with food, acting out food fantasies and giving visitors even more of a thrill.

Juan Andres Vais - Argies

One of the favourite food exhibits were Argies, offering truly Argentinian style cut beef, while customers and spectators were entertained with Salsa Dancers.

Premium drink brands and award-winning wineries showcase the country’s finest alcoholic beverages.

One of the Wine Exhibitors at Taste for a number of years was Thelema Mountain Vineyards, who showcased their wines from the Elgin farm, called Sutherland Vineyards. The crowd this year was wonderfully diverse and engaging. Visitors were eager to try new things and discover wines that they had not tasted before and the response to the Sutherland wines was extremely positive. Their top seller at the event was the Sutherland Sauvignon Blanc 2014.

This unique collaboration of Cape Town’s finest restaurants, chefs and wine producers made Taste of Cape Town a huge success on the Mother City’s food and social calendar.

Mentoring The Next Generation

Leading the local chef line-up is Siba Mtongana from Food Network’s Siba’s Table, Jenny Morris, Food Network host and chef, also known as The Giggling Gourmet will be romancing the stove. Local chefs, with personality, will be participating in a TV cook-off with SABC to see who has the most zing when they present. This year’s show is also going to be super-interactive.

New culinary techniques, new equipment and new trends will be tested out and visitors will be able to take part in the all the action far more than they’ve been used to. There’ll be cooking demos, food tastings and cooking classes.

Chefs have to do three things really well: think, taste and multitask. This according to chef Michael Broughton, the much celebrated chef of Terroir in Stellenbosch – frequently on the Eat Out Top 10 list of restaurants.

His newest award came in the form of a Mentor of the Year Award from The Private Hotel School for the invaluable contribution he makes towards the industry by accepting and training students.

For more information visit www.goodfoodandwineshow.co.za

Sommeliers Selection - New Wine Award Welcome to the first South African wine competition judged solely by a panel of South Africa’s Top Sommeliers, in categories moulded around that of a “wine list”.

ciders and international wines. Within each category, the judges will award a Wine by the Glass Trophy, which will look for the best, most dynamic wines available on the market.

The Sommeliers Selection is young, fun, plugged-in, and targeting the everyday wine drinker through new and innovative ways, including a strong social & traditional media campaign, clever posters that engage the public at all wine retail outlets, neck tags and bold stickers on every winning bottle.

Entries will be judged for their food appropriateness and their gastronomical relevance. The judges will look at stylistic approach to wines, regionality and price points. All wines will be blind tasted by the sommeliers.

Although The Sommeliers Selection is fresh, new, and different they are serious about wine and guarantee the highest standard of audited judging criteria. Categories include amongst others, house wines, fresh crunchy whites, voluptuous rich reds, stickys, a beer category,

The wines, beers and ciders will be blind judged by leading members of the South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) as well as an associate sommelier judge.

Entries close on 8 May, and the awards ceremony will take place on 19 June, with a public tasting at the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa.

Chef Michael Broughton of Terroir restaurant received The Private Hotel School’s Mentor Award during their recent 2015 graduation ceremony.

Here he features with Mrs Susina Jooste, director of the Hotel school and his star intern, Stephen Bartl, who was honoured with the ‘Spirit of Hospitality’ Award.

Chef Broughton regularly hosts students from The Private Hotel School in Stellenbosch as interns and recently the hotel school’s top Culinary Arts graduate, Stephen Bartl, sharpened his knives in the kitchen of this leading culinary establishment. “Interns sometimes bring a fresh perspective to the kitchen,” says Michael.

According to Mrs Susina Jooste, the director of The Private Hotel School, she handpicks students to fit the various chefs of restaurants and hotels in the area.

“It is important that each student learns more about all the chefs who have ‘made it’ in the industry, where after they have to motivate why they would like to complete their experiential studies under the mentorship of a specific chef. In this regard, Michael Broughton is always on their list of preferred mentors.”

Stephen agrees that being a chef is mentally and physically taxing. “Fortunately my official training gave me more practical experience than anyone can hope for before entering the industry,” he shares. “My lectures truly prepared me for the worst and best scenarios in the kitchen. When you know that you have worked hard to offer the best quality fine dining food possible to 60 people in one seating, the adrenaline rush is incredible.”

“I think putting the students in a professional kitchen is more about teaching them practical application of what they’ve learnt in the protected environment of the classroom,” explains Michael.

“Here they have to work to a regime of timekeeping, teamwork under pressure, working with people you wouldn’t ordinarily work with, team dynamics (good and bad) as well as being the last reminder that this is a life they have chosen … and to decide whether they’re up for it.”

THE NEWSPAPER

PAGE 11

REALTY

Your key to living in beautiful Cyprus!

In the current economic climate many South Africans are showing greater interest in buying property overseas for investment purposes while still resident in South Africa, whereas others are leaving for permanent residency abroad.

EU RESIDENCY Permanent residency in another country, especially Europe, has become a sought-after status - as you have the legal right to reside indefinitely in that country, and enjoy equal treatment with their nationals, even obtain free access to the entire territory of the EU country concerned, but one of the features is securing a Schengen travel visa.

The application procedure takes 4 – 6 weeks to be concluded and the permanent residency option in Cyprus is for life - it automatically renews! To maintain permanent residency property owners must be present in Cyprus for a minimum of one day every second year.

An added benefit to South Africans is that Cyprus allows you to rent out your property on the permanent residency scheme.

Jenny Ellinas, the Managing Director of Cypriot Realty has a relatively affordable solution where South Africans can feel at home. Therefore, investing in property on the Mediterranean, particularly in Cyprus has become an attractive option for South Africans, and also increasingly viable.

WHY CYPRUS? Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea with a total population of 880 000 people. Cyprus is not part of Greece, but a full member of the European Union as of 2004, and the Euro is its currency since 2008. It is currently one of the safest destinations in Europe where English is widely spoken. Cyprus has an idyllic climate with almost 320 days of sunshine annually – with relatively short, yet mild winters, and crystal clear waters with magnificent beaches.

The infrastructure of the marinas, golf courses, and airports are constantly being upgraded.

The well diversified economy is structured on income generated from 2,4 million tourists per year, real estate, agriculture, offshore and international banking, trade, consulting and manufacturing businesses.

The Economy in Cyprus is very solid with a low unemployment rate and a high per capita income. An average price for a 3 bedroom house is about €389,031, and a 3 bedroom apartment about €128,484, while the monthly rental for a 2 bedroom apartment is about €315.

Cyprus offers a fabulous lifestyle with low cost of living, excellent medical facilities, easy and cost effective accessibility to Europe, low company taxation rates, high standard of education from pre-school to University, various outdoor areas as well as favourite South African products including the likes of biltong, boerewors and food brands such as Ocean Basket and Nando’s.

JENNY ELLINAS Jenny Ellinas is the founder and Managing Director of Cypriot Realty - South Africa’s only marketing company that exclusively promotes Cyprus as an ideal destination for permanent residency/citizenship, property investment, retirement and starting a European-based business to South Africans.

As mother and businesswoman, Jenny was always concerned with the reality that South Africa has enormous challenges regarding crime, economic and social challenges and limited LOGO employment opportunities.

Jenny decided to become proactive and researched all the overseas permanent residential schemes available to South Africans and she decided to market Cyprus as a destination, as their scheme was affordable and their lifestyle quite similar to South Africa.

Many clients purchased property in the well-established tourist residential areas and rented it out, generating a monthly euro income stream.

There are currently three ways for South African passport holders to secure EU citizenship and therefore obtain an EU passport: Marriage to an EU citizen; through naturalisation (living in that country every year for a specified time); or through Investment (personal or business). On Cyprus’ “Citizenship through investment” programme your EU passports will be issued in 3 months; and your dependent children aged up to 28 qualify!

HOW CAN CYPRIOT REALTY ASSIST YOU IN YOUR APPLICATION?

Cypriot Realty is a recognised and respected Southern African authoritative investment specialist, promoting Cyprus as an ideal destination and understands investor’s needs.

Being in operation for more than 7 years, Cypriot Realty has an impressive track record of assisting many South Africans in finding their perfect home, assisting in facilitating the permanent residency application process as well as in the physical relocation to Cyprus.

Cypriot Realty also arranges personalised property inspection trips to Cyprus to view properties opportunities, set up meetings with attorneys, the bank, and also offer a full turnkey service to make any purchaser’s experience pleasant and memorable.

5-DAY TOURS TO CYPRUS The best way to make a decision about buying a property in Cyprus is by taking the time to view the property yourself.

Join Jenny on one of her customised South African group inspection tours in 2015, and investigate the property opportunities on offer in Cyprus.

In Cyprus you will be welcomed with the warm hospitality from a Leptos Estates representative where you can explore Cyprus, and choose from Suburbia, Hillside, Sea Front, and City Living Properties for investment, retirement, holiday or emigration purposes.

Looking for EU residency options in Cyprus, Greece, Malta, Portugal and Spain?

With a well-established background in blue chip corporate sales and marketing, it was relatively easy for Jenny to conceptualise and implement sales policies and marketing strategies. Her burning desire to succeed and her passion for Cyprus as her preferred market, set the business in motion.

Today, Cape Town based Jenny Ellinas reveals that close on 2 000 South Africans have purchased property in Cyprus from the time she started Cypriot Realty in 2008. South Africans tend to favour the Paphos side of the island, as it is a great agricultural belt with wine estates resembling the Western Cape.

cy priot ypriot

Realty

YOUR KEY TO LIVING IN BEAUTIFUL CYPRUS

For more information contact Jenny Ellinas on 083 448 8734 or email jenny@cypriotrealty.com visit www.cypriotrealty.com

PAGE 12

THE NEWSPAPER

BUSINESS

Wonderbag CEO Inspires

Hoëronderwys, Tegnologie

The Xtraordinary Women Network held a Coastal Networking event with special guest speaker, Sarah Collins, Founder and CEO of Wonderbag which took place at the Blowfish restaurant in Blouberg recently. The event was a resounding success - all eagerly hanging on to Collins’s every word.

Ek onthou nog toe ek klein was die opwinding sodra die kenwysie van die TVreeks, Buck Rogers, begin speel het. Buck Rogers was ʼn ruimtevaarder. Terwyl hy in die ruimte was, was daar ʼn fratsongeluk wat tot gevolg gehad het dat hy vir 500 jaar gevries was. So gebeur dit toe dat Buck Rogers ná 500 jaar na die aarde toe terugkeer, maar alles het verander.

at Women Networking event

The focus area of the breakfast was centred on Sarah’s journey with the Wonderbag, which started off as a small home-based business and developed into a global social impact solution.

As Xtraordinary Women organisers are known for inspiring and supporting women entrepreneurs regardless of how small their ideas might be, they identified Sarah Collins as the perfect person to inspire and motivate their community of women to follow their dreams and ultimately make a meaningful contribution to the world.

en Buck Rogers-sindroom in die 25ste Eeu

Tegnologie het die afgelope dekade ons lewens radikaal verander. Jy kan vandag in jou kantoor sit en deur die internet jou skottelgoedwasser aansit, die skaapboud in die oond gaarmaak en jou gunstelingprogram opneem. Danksy die sekuriteitkameras in jou huis kan jy sien as die honde jou banke kou, en kan jy die nuutste rolprent saam met pizza en wyn aanlyn bestel – alles sonder om jou kantoor te verlaat.

Xtraordinary women have been hosting women’s business networking events since 2008 in Cape Town and have grown considerably over the years.

The amount of women involved in these events have increased to thousands of women being impacted since the network first started and the organisation’s objectives is to roll-out their successful format nationally.

There are 4 networking events that take place every month and the newly launched Inspirational Evenings aim to identify successful and influential women and entrepreneurs in the corporate environment to be speakers and share their wealth of experience with others in attendance.

Photo from left - Sarah Jane Gullick and Sarah Collins

The networks’ ultimate aim is to inspire women to follow their dreams, to take their businesses to new heights and to be strong enough to face the challenges that come their way.

Xtraordinary Women will continue to grow and inspire women to do great things in the future.

More about The Wonderbag It is a revolutionary, non-electric, heat retention cooker that allows food that has been brought to the boil by conventional methods, to continue to cook for up to 12 hours, without using any additional energy source.

Not only is the Wonderbag a revolution in the kitchen, but it is also a recipe for social change. First world countries have embraced the Wonderbag because of its environmental attributes and particularly its social contributions, because for every bag sold around the world a contribution is made to the Wonderbag Foundation to help put more bags into the hands of those around the world who live in poverty and would greatly benefit from owning a Wonderbag.

Wonderbag was founded in South Africa six years ago by local entrepreneur and social activist, Sarah Collins, and the product was born out of a practical desire to continue cooking during a bout of Eskom load shedding.

Since opening its doors the company has grown exponentially and this local product has crossed over borders into various overseas markets. Thanks to this daring move, business has grown from their SA home base and are now sold in countries across the globe, including America and the United Kingdom.

The product was listed on Amazon.com in 2013 and sales have shown exponential growth since it was launched.

Tegnologie vergemaklik nie net ons lewens nie, maar dit gee ons ook die geleentheid om met nuwe oë na hoër onderwys in Suid-Afrika kyk. Oor die laaste dekade het nuwe tegnologie begin om die pas in hoër onderwys aan te gee. Akademia het hierin die geleentheid gesien om tegnologie in te span om probleemgebiede in hoër onderwys in Suid-Afrika te oorbrug.

Die tegnologie wat Akademia inspan, stel jou in staat om jou graad nauurs te studeer, en die klasse in joau omgewing by te woon. Deur middel van ʼn hoogs gesofistikeerde videokonferensiestelsel word jou klas vanuit ʼn ateljee in Pretoria uitgesaai, intyds, na die klaskamer waar jy jou bevind. Jy is in direkte visuele verbinding met jou dosent en ander klasse, en kan so ook deelneem aan klasgesprekke met studente regdeur die land. Die e-ondersteuningstelsel sluit vir jou gerief ʼn aanlyn- elektroniese biblioteek in, wat jou toegang gee tot duisende bronne waaruit jy kan kies, en dít letterlik in die palm van jou hand. Daar is geen geboue, geen verkeer en geen gesukkel om mee rekening te hou nie.

Jou studiehandleidings is in die vorm van e-boeke beskikbaar wat met behulp van enige internetgebaseerde handstuk, hetsy dit ʼn slimfoon, tablet of skootrekenaar is, afgelaai en gestoor kan word. Jy hoef dus geen boeke met jou saam te dra oral waar jy gaan nie. Alle werkopdragte is ook elektronies beskikbaar; word elektronies opgelaai en gemerk; en jou punte word dan elektronies beskikbaar gestel.

Selfs toetse word aanlyn geskryf en jou punte is dadelik beskikbaar. Sou jy dalk ʼn klaskontaksessie gemis het, of sou jy weer wou seker maak van iets wat die dosent in die klas genoem het, is dit ook moontlik om die opname binne 48 uur na die klas af te laai en weer by die huis te kyk.

Dalk beleef jy nou ʼn Buck Rogers-oomblik. Tegnologie stel hoër onderwys in staat om afstand te oorbrug en om waardevolle tyd beskikbaar te stel aan studente om meer aandag aan hul studies te gee.

Met die tempo waarteen tegnologie ontwikkel en waarmee dit die landskap van hoër onderwys konfronteer, behoort dit nie vreemd te wees om binnekort jou dosent as ʼn driedimensionele hologram voor in die klas te sien staan nie. Tegnologie oorbrug nie net afstand en tyd nie, maar skep ook broodnodige geleenthede waar dit voorheen nie bestaan het nie. Belangrik om te onthou - ʼn geleentheid is egter net ʼn geleentheid as dit gebruik word.

Waldemar Blanche, Hoof van Tegnologie - Akademia

a k a d e m i a Sakeplankompetisie

27&28 MEI - SAKEBESTUURWERKSWINKEL 15 JULIE - KOMPETISIE SLUIT 7 OKTOBER - LEEUKUIL & GALA AAND www.sakeplankompetisie.co.za

THE NEWSPAPER

BUSINESS

PAGE 13

Coetzenburg Real Estate

Supports Security Company in Stellenbosch Coetzenburg Real Estate is situated in the historic centre of Stellenbosch where lovely Oak lined streets are filled with many tourists and locals enjoying the variety of restaurants, boutiques and art galleries concentrated in this area.

Unfortunately the increase in crime in South Africa has not left Stellenbosch unaffected. The businesses in Church Street and surrounding areas are very fortunate to have the protection of EPP Protection Services, 24 hours a day.

COETZENBURG

EIENDOMME•REAL ESTATE SINCE 1981

21 Church Street, Stellenbosch Tel: 021 883 8255 Email: info@coetzenburgrealestate.co.za

STELLENBOSCH - MOSTERTSDRIFT R14,945,000

6

Gideon de Villiers from Coetzenburg Real Estate is presenting the radios to, Fernando Marcus, Vernon Petersen and Edmund Pietersen representing EPP Protection Services

3

6.5

Web ref # 10165681 Situated in an exclusive security complex, this double storey property offers 6 en-suite bedrooms, open-plan reception areas with multiple fireplaces, a wine cellar and a sauna.

Entertainment areas include a private courtyard with a splash pool and a large balcony with built-in braai and beautiful mountain views. Also includes five garages.

Their presence and excellent observation ability has been key in keeping crime in this area to a minimum. Guards are visible on every corner and also patrol the streets at certain intervals.

STELLENBOSCH - CENTRAL R3,250,000

To further assist and show their support, Coetzenburg Real Estate has provided EPP Protection Services with four, two-way radios in order for the guards to maintain communication at all times.

Sole Mandate

For more information contact EPP Protection Services on 021 883 3033

33

Development of R680m

2.5

Hotel in Cape Town CBD

Tsogo Sun has reached an agreement with the owners of the recently demolished Tulip hotel for the construction of a new 500-bedroom hotel complex on the corners of Buitengracht and Strand streets, for a total investment of R680 million.

“I’m pleased that Tsogo Sun have decided to expand their offering in the city centre, which already includes The Cullinan, Southern Sun Waterfront and Southern Sun Cape Sun. Tsogo Sun’s continued investment into the Western Cape speaks to the confidence they have in our province as a business destination,” said Minister Alan Winde.

Web ref # 102767474 Excellent opportunity to buy property in sought after complex next to the Eerste River. Walking distance to centre of town, shops and restaurants as well as 5 schools and campus.

Includes single garage and one designated parking bay. North facing, sunny, corner unit with the lounge leading to patio and garden. Open-plan kitchen, lounge and dining area with guest toilet downstairs. First floor with shared bathroom and 2 bedrooms (Main en-suite with balcony). Loft has been converted into large third bedroom complete with wooden floors, BIC’s and air-con. Rental agreement signed until 30 November 2015. Gross rental income: R12,650 pm.

STELLENBOSCH - SIMONSWYK R1,850,000

2

3

1.5 3

Web ref # 100979284 Lovely 2 bedroom, duplex in a security complex close to shopping centre & campus.

Open-plan kitchen, dining area, lounge and guest toilet downstairs. Two bedrooms and one bathroom upstairs. Bedrooms both with sky-light windows. Single garage with direct access into the kitchen. Rental agreement signed until 30 November 2015. Gross rental income: R9 300 pm.

STELLENBOSCH - DENNESIG R790 000 The Cullinan Hotel - Cape Town - Photo Credit - Tsogo Sun

The new hotel will consist of two products in one complex, a 200-bedroom latest-design SunSquare hotel and a 300-bedroom new generation StayEasy hotel, offering a choice of affordable and stylish accommodation. Included in the complex will be banqueting and conference facilities, Tsogo Sun’s trendy and fast growing casual dining offering Vigour & Verve, retail space and approximately 300 underground parking bays. The hotel site currently includes a heritage façade which will be retained.

The Cape Town International Convention Centre’s expansion meant there would be an increase in demand for accommodation in the city centre.

Construction is expected to begin in May 2015 and to be completed by September 2017, in time for peak summer tourist season.

Tsogo Sun’s portfolio includes over 90 hotels and 14 casino and entertainment destinations throughout South Africa, Africa, the Seychelles and Abu Dhabi.

Sole Mandate

31

1

Web ref # 102531870 Spacious, neat, north facing apartment on the first floor. One bedroom, one bathroom, lounge and kitchen. Washing machine and dishwasher connection. Pre-paid electricity.

Includes one covered parking bay. Rental agreement signed until 30 November 2015.

Gross rental income: R4900 pm.

www.coetzenburgrealestate.co.za

PAGE 14

THE NEWSPAPER

HEALTH

FLU VACCINATIONS

FLYING EYE HOSPITAL

Getting vaccinated against the flu will be even more important for South Africans this winter after the Northern Hemisphere experienced one of its worst flu outbreaks in recent years.

Orbis International, headquartered in New York, is an international non-profit nongovernmental organization (NGO) dedicated to saving sight worldwide, while Orbis Africa an affiliation of Orbis International - operates from Cape Town and works in Sub-Saharan Africa to reduce preventable and treatable blindness and visual impairment on the continent, with a primary focus on children.

NOW AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

Residents in Europe and North America were unfortunately poorly prepared, as the flu vaccine that was made available to them did not provide adequate protection against two new strains of the virus.

Fortunately a new vaccine has been produced to match these changes in two of the three strains.

“The flu vaccine is usually available in South Africa in early March, but delivery was delayed due to the fact that the vaccine had to be modified to better match the strains of flu that are currently doing the rounds,” notes Dr Annamarie Richter, medical director at Netcare’s Primary Care Division.

IS SAVING SIGHT WORLDWIDE

Orbis Africa’s country programmes provide lasting solutions to improved eye health in selected countries such as South Africa, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Zambia. Since 1982, Orbis capacity-building programs have enhanced the skills of 325,000 eye care personnel and provided medical and optical treatment to more than 23.3 million people in 92 countries.

Orbis Flying Eye Hospital (FEH) is the world’s only flying ophthalmic teaching hospital - the ideal marriage of aviation and medical technology. Inside the DC-10 there’s a state-of-the-art operating room with audio-visual equipment that transmits live surgeries to students in a 48-seat classroom.

Orbis Africa, a South African registered non-profit is dedicated to the improvement of eye health globally since its inception in 1982. The organisation is committed to ensure high quality Human Resources for Eye Health throughout Africa through the use of Orbis teaching, training tools, and technology and focuses on three key areas:

With this winter’s flu strains proving to be even more virulent, Dr Richter advises that South Africans get vaccinated as soon as possible, as it takes about two weeks after vaccination for protective antibodies to develop. Complications from flu could include pneumonia, bacterial infections, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) and neurological conditions.

“There are a few misconceptions about flu vaccinations, including the belief that you can get flu from these vaccines. It is impossible to get flu from a flu vaccine as it does not contain any of the live virus. There may be some mild side effects such as minor headaches, a slight fever or swelling and soreness at the injection site,” adds Dr Pete Vincent of the Netcare Travel Clinics and Medicross Family Medical and Dental Centre in Tokai.

Three advantages of the flu vaccine, according to Dr Vincent, include: The vaccine not only shields you from getting flu, but also protects those around you who are more vulnerable, such as the elderly, children, pregnant women and people with certain chronic illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, lung disease and heart disease.

Although flu vaccines do not always completely prevent contraction of this virus, they do make your illness much milder if you get sick.

It is particularly important that people wanting to get vaccinated choose reputable facilities. This will ensure that the vaccine includes those strains recommended by the WHO for the Southern Hemisphere’s flu season and will also guarantee that the vaccine is legally registered in South Africa.

GIVING THE GIFT OF A SMILE WITH LAUGHTER

Training - Enhancing skills of local eye health teams, empowering them to deal with the complex eye health needs of their communities and countries.

Advocacy - Blindness and visual impairment are often overlooked as a global health issue, especially when it comes to children.

Research - Orbis Africa supports research to develop strategy for evidence based interventions to plan the design and development of programmes.

The Child Eye Health initiative focuses on a comprehensive model for child eye health in Sub-Saharan Africa and established an office in Cape Town to develop specialized services for children's eye health and lead the way for a sustainable, comprehensive model for pediatric eye care that is accessible, high quality and affordable. Orbis Africa is strengthening paediatric ophthalmology capacity by providing clinical training as well as financial and technical support.

Orbis Africa partnered with the Ophthalmology Department at the University of Cape Town, the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital to develop a specialist pediatric fellowship program for African doctors and also supported the opening of a pediatric eye care center in KwaZulu-Natal.

For more information contact 021 447 7135 or visit www.orbis.org/country/south-africa/

WHO ADVOCADES SAFER FOOD Photo from Left - Right - Rynard van der Westhuizen, Nompikazi Matjila and David Grier

Comedians for Smiles: Flower Power - a unique comedy festival featuring wellknown comedians ‘KG’, Tracey Class, Stuart Taylor and Mum-Z – is set to run for one night only at Villiera Wine Farm near Stellenbosch, on 30 May. The annual comedy festival is hosted by the Cipla Foundation Miles for Smiles initiative and is geared to raise funds and awareness for the plight of children born with cleft lips and palates.

“Comedians for Smiles is yet another campaign that forms part of Cipla Foundation’s Miles for Smiles initiatives - which have raised over R8-million to date to facilitate corrective surgeries for Operation Smile patients, an achievement that is made possible by the support of our wonderful partners who donate their resources and time,” says Creator of the event, Cipla Foundation’s Managing Trustee - David Grier. Grier continues that the evening promises to be a night to remember. Guests will be treated to canapés paired award winning wines, dinner will be served in the ‘Peace and Love Rally’ area where guests will be captivated by talented fire dancers, Studio54 DJs, go-go dancers, an air guitar competition and dance off’s.

Finally, the top-notch comedy line-up will be hosted in the ‘Woodstock of Comedy’ room.

Cipla Foundation will also be launching its latest ‘Ignite Hope’ CSI campaign - private auction of Louis Storm’s ‘Ignite Hope’ collection that will round off the evening as key art pieces will be auctioned off to raise further funds for this worthy cause.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Cipla Foundation Miles for Smiles initiative, which in collaboration with Operation Smile has helped put nearly 2000 smiles on children’s faces, says Grier.

Visit www.quicket.co.za to buy tickets

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), foodborne and waterborne diarrhoeal diseases kill an estimated two million people every year – the reason why Food safety was the theme for World Health Day celebrated recently.

It is also one of the key responsibilities entrusted to the City’s Environmental Health Practitioners who conduct thousands of food safety inspections every year to mitigate the health and safety risks associated with exposure to contaminated or misbranded foods in both the formal and informal sector.

In the 2013/14 staff conducted 21 000 inspections at food premises and tested more than 8 000 samples – 83% of which complied with relevant microbiological and compositional standards.

National food legislation governs the structural requirements of premises and their hygiene practices and principles; places responsibility on those in charge of a food establishment; sets compositional standards for foodstuffs; and provides for labelling and advertising of foodstuffs.

It furthermore provides for the detention of suspect foodstuffs and for the condemnation and destruction thereof in cases of non-compliance.

Legislation also dictates that most food premises where a meal is supplied or served must be in possession of a business licence as well as a Certificate of Acceptability that must be displayed at the premises.

The World Health Organisation advocates five keys to safer foods: Keep food clean, separate raw and cooked food, cook thoroughly, keep food at safe temperatures and use safe water and raw materials.

On World Health Day, the City’s Environmental Health Practitioners raised awareness around food safety based on these key aspects which are also promoted in all health and hygiene projects that the department conducts during its community outreach programmes.

Members of the public can report any concerns to their nearest Environmental Health office or lodge complaint a with the City’s call centre on 0860 103 089.

THE NEWSPAPER

Red Carpet Fashion Show 2015

On 8 May the fall collections of renowned fashion designers Stefania Morland, Craig Port, Bo & Luca, Joanna Hedley and a preview of next summer’s collection by BeachCult, Jagadi Couture, Diesel eyewear and KarenFay jewellery are set to grace the runway at the Red Carpet Fashion Show 2015, a Red Carpet Concepts production in collaboration with Bisquit Cognac and Prestige Magazine.

The gorgeous venue, Cassia, on Nitida Wine Farm, lends itself to the enchantment of this year’s soirée, surrounded by glass concertina doors which seamlessly spill out onto the lake, enveloped by lush, green vineyards and rolling hills.

EVENTS

Celebrate Mother's Day at Spier Make your Mom feel like a queen on Mother’s Day, 10 May by treating her to a Royal Breakfast at Eight, Spier's farm-totable restaurant in Stellenbosch. Celebrate this special day with bubbly on arrival, before tucking into a full hot English breakfast and a range of continental breakfast platters filled with scrumptious mini scones and pastries.

Spier Hotel Restaurant also caters for a Mother’s Day Mad Hatter’s Lunch. Ask your mother to grab a fancy hat and take her to Spier for a magical Lunch. A delicious savoury buffet will be served, along with delectable desserts, tea and cupcakes.

For more information contact 021 809 1100

Michelangelo Awards

This year marks the 19th Michelangelo International Wine & Spirit Awards and still the competition continues its remarkable growth. In 2014 the competition introduced South Africa’s first Liqueur Awards, the Michelangelo IQ Business Wine Club was founded in Johannesburg and entries rose to a recordbreaking 1730.

Michelangelo owner and managing director, Lorraine Immelman, announced that Cape Wine Master Christine Rudman had accepted the position as the competition’s Technical Director with immediate effect.

Christine has been serving on the judging panel since 2007, representing South Africa on the international panel of judges.

Her new role as Technical Director takes her out of the judging process as she will be responsible for overseeing all technical aspects of the competition.

This includes verifying all entries, supervising the logistics during the one-week judging process and - in close co-operation with the auditors - overseeing the allocation of medals and trophies.

Cassia is also equipped with a gigantic fireplace for a toasty touch to a somewhat chilled autumn eve, an ideal engagement for a glass of Bisquit and a tasty Mediterranean Delicacies snack! Cassia’s Head Chef, Florent Hameau, will be whipping up gourmet canapés infusing the fresh flavours of the Mediterranean with the finesse of French gastronomy, also an ideal accompaniment to the complimentary Nitida Methode Cap Classique upon arrival.

PAGE 15

“We are also delighted to welcome back to the Michelangelo panel honorary Cape Wine Master, Dave Hughes, who will take his place as a member of the jury again this year,” Lorraine commented. Dave has also been appointed chairman of the Michelangelo Brandy panel. To date eleven international judges have accepted the invitation to judge on this year’s Michelangelo panels. Ultimately 22 wine and liqueur judges will serve on the 2015 jury.

In Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards quest to bring the wine industry closer to the producers, Michelangelo has over the past decade introduced a number of trophy sponsors for specific categories. These are normally driven by enquiries and suggestions from producers who would like to see specific areas of wine production promoted and highlighted, and to this end they have introduced a trophy for the Best Cape Blend, sponsored by heating and cooling specialist company, TRANE. Alistair Sansom, director of Service First which is the authorised distributor of TRANE in South Africa, commented that his company was delighted to be part of the Michelangelo International Wine & Spirit Awards. TRANE’s association with this new award coincides with a release of a host of new products last year, the largest in 20 years.

The 2015 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards takes place in August in Somerset West.

Franschhoek Literary Festival

The 2015 Franschhoek Literary Festival (FLF) will take place from 15 – 17 May in Franschhoek. Along with the very best of local writing talent, will be a host of well-known international authors.

The events take place in village venues within a few minutes' walk of each other, which creates a vibrant ambience in streets buzzing with book-lovers.

The emphasis is on informal discussions and spirited debates between several writers with a chairperson, or oneon-one conversations, and occasional talks.

Fringe events include literary and publishers' dinners, book launches, writing workshops, a school spelling bee, wine writers' prizes and classical music concerts.

The FLF is honoured to host the shortlist announcements of the annual Sunday Times Literary Awards - the non-fiction Alan Paton Award and the newly named Barry Ronge Fiction Prize.

A number of early evening events have been added to the line-up of the 2015 FLF, offering festival goers a relaxing and entertaining wind-down before heading off for dinner.

Two events are literary/musical evenings touching on the lives of two of South Africa’s favourite singers – PJ Powers and the late Brenda Fassie. Music lovers should also look out for two events with the legendary muso, Hugh Masekela.

Also on Friday evening, fans of the late Chris van Wyk (Shirley Goodness and Mercy) can still buy tickets for a special tribute to Chris, when Actor Kurt Egelhof will present a programme of tribute readings from the late Chris van Wyk (Shirley Goodness and Mercy) works.

And finally, festival poets will read from the works at a free poetry session and they will be joined by other invited poets.

Greyton Genadendal Classics for All Festival

The 11th Greyton Genadendal Classics for All Festival takes place from 29-31 May. The festival line-up includes a performance by the Libertas Choir, the Juliet String Quartet, the Charl du Plessis Trio and the father and daugter duo of soprano Elizabeth Catharina and organist Roucher du Toit.

A montage of arts, from beautiful ballet ensembles to live music performances

by ShenFM, Nash and The Marilynz add layers of entertainment and atmosphere leading up to and during the show, with cash bar and DJ to follow. Hair and beauty partners Kerastase and Nimue spoil guests with generous gifts, along with Prestige coffee table collectables, making sure everyone gets a piece of magic to take home, whilst FoxBox adds an extra dash of glamour on the go to those feeling up for an express mani.

For more information visit www.redcarpetpr.co.za

For more information visit www.flf.co.za

Other highlights include a gala event with the Hugo Lambrechts Symphony Orchestra, a concert featuring the music of South African composer Hendrik Hofmeyr, and pianists Albie van Schalkwyk, Tertia Visser-Downie, Francois du Toit and Franklin Larey in "Two Pianos Eight Hands".

Soprano Caroline Modiba with Greyton Genadendal Community Choir

For more information visit greytonclassicmusicfestival.co.za

SPORTS NEWS For the dedicated fans

May 2015

Tel: 021 852 6500

www.thenewspaper.co.za

Free Copy

AMARIDER 100MILER & 50MILER ULTRA MARATHON The one-day ultra mountain bike marathon in the Swartland, the Amarider 100Miler, will start & finish at the Malmesbury Festival grounds on Saturday 23 May 2015. The route will be more or less the same and the 50Miler option will still start at Delico, Riebeeck Kasteel and finish the 160km ride in town.

In its seventh year, the event has grown so much that this venue can offer bigger & better facilities for catering and parking - but it is all about pedalling farms roads in this beautiful country side from 3 - 10 hours.

The 100Miler starts at 07h30 and the first riders are expected after 1 o’clock.

The 50Miler starts at 09h00 and will finish just over 3 hours. The weather conditions play a major role in testing your endurance, as mud, wind or rain do on most outdoor events. The 100Miler riders have breakfast & lunch stops, while the 50Miler entrants can also enjoy good refreshment stations.

Only pre-entries will be accepted for both distances.

Prizes are awarded to different age categories, but no under 18’s are allowed to participate in the event.

Timing is done by Trail Tag that gives live results of check points and finish times.

The 160km (100Miler) route is divided into three sections of approximately 55km with two compulsory timing checkpoints. The format of the race creates perfect vantage points for spectators and support.

While the competition is based on solo riders completing the entire course these riders can form 4-man teams and enjoy a day out with mates on a saddle! The team results will be based on the 4th rider crossing the line thereby encouraging teamwork and camaraderie.

According to Meurant Botha, director of Amarider, the 100Miler was created to become a primary fundraiser, a recreational trails advocacy group

focused on improving trail opportunities on the African continent. Proceeds of the event are channeled directly to trail projects.

Amarider is focused on improving trail construction standards around the country and assist various mountain bike clubs to ensure that their trails are safe and environmentally sustainable.

For further information visit www.amarider.co.za

WORLD CLASS ATHLETES ADDED TO FNB CAPE TOWN 12 ONERUN Kenya’s Moses Masai, Emmanuel Bett, Moses Kipsiro and Ethiopia’s Yigrem Demelash will line up to run the inaugural FNB Cape Town 12 ONERUN on Sunday, 17 May 2015.

This exciting announcement follows the news that one of the worlds’ best ever middle distance athletes, Vivian Cheruiyot, will also be taking part and it will be the first time that South African athletes have had the chance to race against this calibre of athlete on home soil.

“Until now they have had to travel abroad for this kind of depth, and we firmly believe that by giving our athletes the opportunity to race at this level at home, we will be helping to raise the standard in South Africa,” says Michael Meyer of Stillwater Sports.

Three of the athletes have clocked under 27 minutes in the 10 000m with Moses Masai the twentieth fastest ever over the 10 000m with a time of 26:49.20. Bett has recorded 26:15.16 and Demelash 26:57.56.

Both of them ran these times in the Diamond League in Brussels in 2012, with Bett winning the race in a personal best and Demelash finishing fourth overall.

In addition Moses Kipsiro is the reigning 10 000m Commonwealth Champion, and multiple world cross country medalist.

Demelash is an exciting prospect, having burst onto the athletics scene in 2011. His 28:44 for the 10km in Addis Ababa at the Great Ethiopian Run was just a taste of what was to come.

Masai has twice dipped under 27 minutes in the 10 000m, the first time in 2007 and again broke the magical mark two years later in Berlin, clocking 26:57.39. He also won Bronze in 2009 at the World Championships in the 10 000m and was fourth the year before at the Olympics Games.

Demelash and Masai will be joined by Emmanual Bett, the fastest 10 000m runner in the world in 2012, with a time of 26:51. He is also considered one of the most versatile athletes, with major race victories on all surfaces.

South Africa’s star athletes Stephen Mokoka, Elroy Gelant and Lusapho April will have their hands full with the international contingent. Cape Townians can expect an exciting battle on South African soil.

Photo Credit - PACE Sports Management