The Newspaper – June Edition 2021

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stories that are life changing

SEA CHANGE PROJECT THE UNDERWATER WONDERLAND IS CALLING

MUSIC PAGE 5

LIFESTYLE PAGE 10

Photo: My Octopus Teacher - Photo Credit: Ross Frylinck

It’s likely you’ve seen My Octopus Teacher by now.

The proudly-South African Oscar won by My Octopus Teacher for Best Documentary Film has laid the foundation for an unprecedented increase in ocean awareness. The film has won multiple awards this season, including the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, ACE Eddie Award for Best Edited Documentary (Feature), and BAFTA Award for Best Documentary.

The Netflix’s film, a nature documentary recording the incredible relationship between a filmmaker, Craig Foster and an octopus while diving near his home in False Bay, charmed audiences across the world. The film last year became the first South African documentary to become a Netflix Original. The insightful and fascinating film brought people together last year during an unprecedented and uncertain time. It was released to instant acclaim during the global Covid-19 lockdown, which Pippa Ehrlich, Co-director acknowledges as partly serendipitous to the film’s stellar rise in popularity: “In a difficult year,

where many of us were stuck inside, feeling afraid and confused, a positive story that transports you to a magical world has a powerful appeal,” says Pippa.

The documentary’s win is important for film in South Africa because it has focused attention on a local story and the quality of local productions. It demonstrates that it’s possible - working from home with a relatively low budget and a small crew to reach a massive global audience, and win one of the most influential awards in the film world.

JEWELLERY PAGE 11

Foster, a documentary filmmaker for 28 years, says the Oscar victory brings life-affirming kudos to the media advocacy work by the film’s producing entity the Sea Change Project, which he co-founded with My Octopus Teacher Associate Producer Ross Frylinck in 2012.

“The Academy Award elevates the Great African Seaforest and surrounding ocean of South Africa into global iconic status.”

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Sea Change Project The Underwater Wonderland Is Calling (Continue from page 1)

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“However, because of how our lifestyle has evolved, we seem to have lost a large part of this deep connection with nature, and hence a large part of ourselves. In the Great African Seaforest, we can track sea-life, learn its behaviours and see nature’s patterns in progress.”

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The Great African Sea Forest, which lies off the southwest tip of the African continent, is one of the best kept natural wonders of the world. Its extant of giant sea bamboo kelp is globally unique.

It is a magical, abundant and biodiverse ecosystem. It protects thousands of species and in terms of endemics, it is richer than the Great Barrier Reef; in terms of wildlife drama, the relationships between predators and prey are as spectacular as the Serengeti.

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Photo: Kelp Forest - Photo Credit: Pippa Ehrlich

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“This is excellent news for us, because it underlines what we have been aiming for: to show the world that we are sitting on a biodiversity treasure trove that is deeply worthy of protection.”

“What has been most exciting for us as an organisation has been the feedback. We have received thousands of messages from people around the world.”

“Many have started diving, studying marine sciences or using My Octopus Teacher as a tool in mental health workshops, and in discussions around emotional ecology and deep nature connection. We wanted to showcase this wonderful ecosystem, the Great African Seaforest, to the world, and we have succeeded, says Craig Foster.”

SMALL TOWNS PROVE POPULAR AS TRAVELLERS EXPLORE THE WESTERN CAPE

“The love we experience for the Great African Seaforest is built on our daily interactions with this extraordinary place. At Sea Change we are committed to sharing that love and experience with as many people as we can reach.”

“We play a part in bringing our ancient relationship with nature and the ocean back to life by telling her story to the world and photographing this oceanic wonderland,” - Sea Change Project.

WINE FARM PAGE 5

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For more information visit www.seachangeproject.com

Photo: Main Street,Greyton - Photo Credit: Greyton Tourism

An increase in domestic travel during April and during the Easter weekend across the Western Cape, and especially to small towns, is a welcome and much-needed boost for the tourism and hospitality sector in the Western Cape.

This increase in visitors reflects the pent-up demand by travellers in South Africa looking to take advantage of the long weekend and explore the many family-friendly, wallet-friendly, world-class experiences on offer in the Western Cape. To ensure the Western Cape continues to be top of mind for domestic travellers, Wesgro’s Destination Marketing Unit will continue to host business to business engagements with travel trade and media ahead of the June/July school holiday season.

“The campaign launched with an Airbnb partnership, as well as adverts will now move into onboarding various service and accommodation offerings throughout the province to encourage domestic travellers to take advantage of the flexibility that working from anywhere brings.”

“This multi-channel approach ensures we are capturing both business and leisure travellers.”

International arrivals continue to be affected by global restrictions on travel, and this will continue to have a significant impact on the tourism and hospitality sector in the Western Cape.

However, it is promising to see that intercontinental flights are increasing with Turkish Airlines, KLM, Qatar and Lufthansa Airlines all expanding their routes to Cape Town International Airport in March. “We are also looking forward to the launch of the Delta Airlines flight in June 2021 which will connect Cape Town to Atlanta, creating more opportunities for business and leisure travel from the United States.”

Some of the key tourism trends include: Accommodation booked to capacity in many towns, especially small towns, with others reflecting at least 70 to 80 per cent occupancy rates; Camping and self-catering establishments.

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NEWS

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SKY-HI Ride, Experience Cape Town From New Heights Cape Town has a brand-new hotel, and it is something special - like nothing else in South Africa and only one of three in the World. The 28-floor Metlife Centre – formerly an office block, and one of the tallest buildings on the foreshore, has been converted into a residential building known as Hotel Sky. It gets better. The hotel has a 30-metres tall roller coaster ride on the rooftop which towers above the Cape Town City bowl. The “lift chair” will take you to the sky giving you a bird’s eye view of one of the most beautiful cities in the World.

If the idea of an exhilarating, gravity-defying, breath taking drop reaching speeds of 75km/hr and 3G’s excites you - then this adventure is for you!

The weather-permitting Sky-Hi Ride is limited to 10 riders per ride and is open daily between 09h00 and 21h00, to both hotel guests and outside visitors. The spacious deck below the ride also offers sweeping views of the city, making it an ideal venue for celebrations, birthday parties, corporate functions and private events to continue Skyla and Ariel are in charge of room service delivery, luggage carriage and answering general questions, your Hotel Sky Cape Town experience. among other things.

Hotel Sky, has two in-house concierges. Skyla and Ariel The hotel guarantees that guests will have a great stay “whether dining in one of their decadent restauare stellar employees, because they never take time off as rants, enjoying a sundowner in one of the cocktail bars, chatting to one of our A.I. enabled robots, or listening these two are Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered robots. to the automated Grand Piano play a song.

Introduction Of Remote Working Visa To Help Tourism Recovery In addition, to ensure that digital nomads are considering the province as a destination for remote work, Wesgro will launch a dedicated portal that curates and promotes a range of accommodation establishments and services across multiple locations to guide those looking for longer-stay options in the Western Cape.

This follows a successful campaign run in partnership with Airbnb to promote remote working domestically, encouraging South Africans to take advantage of the flexibility that working from anywhere brings.

To support tourism recovery in the Western Cape the Western Cape Government are working hard to find innovative ways to attract visitors by embracing new forms of global travel that have emerged with the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, David Maynier, wrote to the Minister of Tourism, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, and the Minister of Home Affairs, Aaron Motsoaledi, with a submission to request that national government urgently introduce a ‘Remote Working Visa’ to allow international visitors to stay longer and work remotely while travelling in South Africa.

The Western Cape has everything it takes to be the best remote working location in the world if we remove the red tape and roll out the red carpet for digital nomad tourists. “For that reason, we have also written to the Deputy Minister of Finance, David Masondo, in his role as part of Operation Vulindela, because removing regulatory barriers such as this one will be key to driving investment in South Africa and stimulating overall economic recovery and growth.” Globally, many countries are competing to capture the market for the longer-stay tourist who can work online from anywhere in the world, while earning and spending foreign currency in the country they are visiting. This is an important market right now, as this type of tourist is more resilient to the challenges that traditional tourism is facing given ongoing travel restrictions. Such tourists will also remain an important source of sustainable tourism long after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Cape Town has made the 2021 list for the 50 “Best Cities for Remote Working” according to Big 7 Travel, but many of our small, coastal towns such as Langebaan and Hermanus are also proving very popular with those looking for destinations that offer good connectivity and a great outdoor lifestyle.

With family-friendly options in the city as well as a world of activities to explore across the province, the Western Cape is perfect for those who want more out of their day - a meeting on the mountain, a dip in the ocean during screen breaks or the joy of working from the many breath-taking wine farms and quaint towns. The region has everything a remote worker needs for one day, three months, or even longer, and promises experiences that are wallet-friendly and world-class.

NEWS

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THE NEWSPAPER

Cape Town’s Biodiversity Steals The Show In City Nature Challenge and record the most species in this international competition. Over 150 cities from around the world competed to see who could make the most observations of nature, find the most species, and engage the most people. Together, Cape Town participants were able to record 71 142 observations and 4 766 species across the city.

“We manage more than 20 nature reserves across Cape Town and I encourage residents to explore the nature conservation area that appeals to them most.”

Our reserves offer an abundance of natural beauty, and is so diverse and beautiful, it would be a pity if our own residents missed out on it,” said the City’s Executive Mayor, Alderman Dan Plato.

The City of Cape Town has been declared as the official winner of two categories in the 2021 City Nature Challenge. The number of Cape Town residents who participated this year increased to 1 315.

These participants made it possible for the City to make the most observations

The competition took place between 30 April and 3 May 2021. Capetonians were encouraged to explore the City’s nature reserves and natural open spaces, and to record all of the local plant and animal species that they spotted over the four days.

Participants were required to download the iNaturalist.com app and then had to share their observations by uploading all of their findings on the app.

The City coordinated numerous activities during the course of the challenge, among which tours of the reserves with local experts. The reserves were open to those interested in recording their observations of plant and animal life over the four days.

Increase Threshold For Embedded Generation To 50mw On Friday, 21 May 2021, David Maynier, Western Cape Minister of Finance and Economic submitted comments on behalf of the Western Cape government to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) in response to the proposed amendments to Schedule 2 of the Electricity Regulation Act, 2006, calling for the license-exemption cap for embedded generation plants to be increased from 1MW to at least 50MW, and for all generation facilities to be exempt from licensing under the threshold.

Increasing the licensing threshold for embedded generation to 50MW or higher, and simplifying and finalising the registration process would provide certainty to investors and increase access to affordable, renewable energy in South Africa.

“We remain in an energy crisis and large-scale private sector participation in energy generation, in partnership with government, will be key to addressing the current shortfall.”

In addition, further clarity is needed on the potential role of municipalities, and the role of the private sector as generators and distributors of renewable energy to residents and businesses, particularly as it relates to energy trading opportunities under the proposed amendments.

Project which seeks to support municipalities to take advantage of the energy regulations to generate, procure and sell their own power so that we can become more energy secure in the Western Cape.

The renewable energy sector in South Africa has the potential to attract muchneeded investment that creates jobs. The amendments are a step in the right direction, but I also urge the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, to ensure that the proposed amendments to the Electricity Regulation Act simplify the current regulatory challenges to unlock these opportunities.

On Friday, the Minister visited the 1.3MW solar PV plant at Old Mutual Park in Cape Town which provides around 10% of the commercial complex’s energy needs and demonstrates how the built environment can be adapted to help companies cut their energy costs, become more energy secure and reduce their carbon emissions. This solar plant is one of the reasons that Old Mutual was awarded a 6-star Green rating by the Green Building Council of South Africa.The plan is to expand the Old Mutual solar plant to 4.9MW, however due to the unclear and onerous process to register with the regulator it has taken the developers more than a year to try and obtain a license, and they are still waiting.

This clarity will be critical to the success of our Municipal Energy Resilience

NOW SERVING BRUNCH Projects like the Old Mutual solar plant are a great example of how private sector investment in renewable energy infrastructure can help to mitigate the medium-term impacts of load shedding and create jobs and grow the economy in the Western Cape.

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MUSIC

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Music Connects People In Ways That No Other Activity Can In a congenial atmosphere, Allmusic often becomes a hub where friends and colleagues meet and share interesting thoughts on music. The best way for musicians to discover new music is through browsing. This expands knowledge and provides new possibilities in music tuition. A music book is like a child: it stays with one forever. The online store at www.allmusic.co.za makes their stock accessible anywhere.

The service of sourcing music is an important part of orders at Allmusic. Sjoerd’s experience as conductor, performer, accompanist, teacher and examiner contribute immensely towards this. With their combined experience, Sjoerd and Anna-Marie can advise on music publishers, quality of instruments, give ideas on music tuition and live up to their slogan: ‘what we can’t find, does not exist’.

After 42 years and well-known in the piano business, Lukas van der Walt retired and Sjoerd and Anna-Marie took over from him in December 2020. Together with van der Walt’s full staff complement, they are enjoying the journey and intricacies of managing sales, tuning, rentals, repair and transporting of pianos. Pianos last a lifetime, outlive electronic instruments and are environmentally friendly as all parts, except for plastic key tops, are made of natural materials.

Sjoerd and Anna-Marie Alkema, owners of Allmusic, are grateful to be involved in the music industry. Their lifelong participation in music performance, conducting, teaching, the writing of textbooks, and general music education contributed to a passion and commitment for good business practices.

Anna-Marie is assistant conductor of Con Spirito Philharmonic Society and sings in the choir during performances which, to her, is an expression of her inner-self.

For her, studying often difficult music and immersing herself into the composer’s intentions and emotions, is a deeply fulfilling experience.

Shortly after their marriage, Sjoerd received two bursaries to study abroad. His enriching studies in Salzburg, where he obtained a Degree in Conducting, had a profound influence on his professional career. During their Windhoek years, they played a major role in organizing the Fifth Philip McLachlan Choral Workshop in 1989, the first and largest international choral event in Southern Africa. Over 500 participants received choral training from international clinicians from Germany, Sweden, Canada, Lesotho and South Africa.

During the OBE years, Anna-Marie wrote learning support material for Music implicit in Arts and Culture from grades 1 to 12, and, when she was approached by National Department of Education, utilized her expertise in a committee of four to develop the CAPS curriculum, focusing on the Western Art Music, part of Music as a Matric Subject.

While living in Bloemfontein, Sjoerd conducted various large scale productions such as Fledermaus, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Camelot, Sound of Music, Gizelle and Evita. For the performance of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio he was nominated Bloemfonteiner of the year. He conducted the Free State Youth Symphony Orchestra for 11 years, offering young musicians the opportunity to perform on a more professional level.

When Sjoerd made a career shift in 2008, the couple moved to the Cape where he completed his PhD at UCT on the conductors of the Cape Town Symphony Orchestra since inception in 1914 until 1965. A summary was included in the CPO’s centenary celebration book: A Century of Symphony.

In 2016 the Con Spirito Philharmonic Society appointed Sjoerd as musical director. Under his baton they performed various popular Night at the Opera productions, Handel’s The Messiah, Faure Requiem, Mozart’s Requiem, Bach’s St Johns Passion and Praise Song Festivals, among others. As soon as it becomes viable, performances will continue.

Having often been asked why she believes in the importance of music education, Anna-Marie refers to studies that show how music develops the mental, emotional and personal wellbeing of any person. A music teacher has the privilege and responsibility to teach learners because in music there is always more to play, more to learn and discover, more to listen to, or be moved by. Music connects people in ways that no other activity can. This connection is well established in Crescendo (https://www.crescendo.org/en), the international network of Christian musicians, of which the Alkema’s established the South African Institute.

Sjoerd received his first piano lessons at the Adolf Hallis Music School in Johannesburg. When the family moved to Bloemfontein, he played violin in the Free State Youth Orchestra and performed piano concertos under the baton of Jack de Wet. In Cape Town he received piano lessons from Neil Solomon and completed his MMus at UCT with piano lecturers Lamar Crowson and Laura Searl. Anna-Marie grew up in Potchefstroom where she completed her BMus. The two met at a youth camp of their church. Their four children, Theo (BMus, MBA), Siewert (MBChB), Adriaan (Bachelor of Fine Arts) and Leana (MMus) were all involved in music and sport in their childhood, Leana the only one that pursued a professional career as Cellist.

Allmusic expanded greatly when they purchased the book section of Lukas van der Walt Pianos in 2009. Available are music books they import directly from overseas publishers for any instrument and voice, be it in the fields of performance, tuition, exams (practical and theory), or ensembles, apart from offering good quality acoustic instruments and accessories. Included are South African composers and publishers as well.

For more information contact +27 21 981 5551 visit www.allmusic.co.za or follow on social media www.facebook.com/conspiritomusic

GENERAL

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THE NEWSPAPER

CREATIVE USE OF SPACES

TEACHERS AND LEARNERS

Transformative leadership and the creative use of spaces in schools can help improve learners’ performance, promote their emotional well-being, and keep them in school until matric. This is one of the core messages of a new book by Prof Aslam Fataar from the Department of Education Policy Studies at Stellenbosch University and Dr Johann Burger, District Manager for the Western Cape Education Department (WCED). Burger completed his doctoral studies in 2017.

The “I CAN read” literacy project, the brainchild of Stellenbosch University’s Dr Zelda Barends, not only aims to improve the literacy levels of foundation-phase learners, but also alerts prospective teachers to how context can and should influence their approach to teaching. Over the past four years, the project has evolved into a significant social impact initiative, shaping many young learners and student teachers.

The book, titled Skoolleierskap en die skep van produktiewe leerruimtes in skole, (School leadership and the creation of productive learning spaces in schools) shows how two principals of diverse schools – one in an urban working class area and the other in a rural middle class area – apply unique leadership and the use of specific spaces in schools to create excellent learning environments that inspire and motivate their learners and teachers to excel in what they do.

Barends, a lecturer in Curriculum Studies and the Foundation Phase programme coordinator in the Faculty of Education, designed the after-school language development programme focusing on foundation phase learners (Grades 1 to 3) as a way to help address South Africa’s huge primaryschool literacy crisis.

Supplementing the existing curriculum, “I CAN read” currently comprises 77 pre-service teachers who offer language support to approximately 360 learners from three schools in the greater Stellenbosch area. Lessons consist of phonics and word-building to eventually elevate learners reading comprehension.

IN SCHOOLS CAN BOOST PERFORMANCE

ALIKE BENEFIT FROM SU READING PROJECT

The authors mention that the principals created physical, emotional and social spaces by incorporating, among others, artworks, light, colour, sound, maps and diagrams in the learning environment.

At the same time, the programme also offers student teachers a platform to become culturally responsive teachers. Students are expected to adapt their teaching methods according to the diverse contexts and needs in the classroom. Matie students training to become Afrikaans Home Language foundation phase teachers, teach the little ones twice a week for 11 weeks in the first semester of their fourthyear BEd studies. And the feedback is overwhelmingly positive.

“One school transformed a certain social space that consists of several seats under shady trees into emotional zones. There are between six and ten seats where the learners, away from the hustle and bustle of the playground, can sit in a fairly quiet space and chat and socialize with each other. One of the social projects that was launched was the establishment of a ‘restaurant’ for learners that could help prepare them emotionally and socially for the future.”

According to the authors, the book shows how limited resources and spaces in schools can be utilised to create learning environments that foster relationships between teachers and learners based on respect, compassion and educational dignity. Furthermore, it provides insight into the possibility of innovative and inspiring leadership in the creation of educational spaces.

The authors believe that newly created and productive learning spaces will have a positive influence on learners and say that this will inspire and excite them about going to school. They also point out that productive learning spaces in schools do not develop spontaneously.

It requires agency and leadership and believe their book can serve as a resource or route map for any student, educator, education district staff member or anyone else who is involved in the teaching and education of people and who strives for improved learning outcomes.

The authors and the two principals, in collaboration with the WCED, will be doing a series of school and education district-based training workshops where they will be focusing on the conceptual and practical school leadership dimensions related to creating healthy school learning environments.

Available online at Google Books, ITSI, Amazon and Takealot

Barends believes the project is slowly but surely helping to improve the children’s literacy levels. Feedback points to some improvement in participating learners’ schoolwork, especially their ability to write descriptive sentences. The children also appear to enjoy reading.

HERMANUS FYN ARTS During this extended period of limited travel, Hermanus FynArts brings the arts of the world home to you from 10 20 June 2021.

Engage with the arts and culture of Russia (10/11), Japan (12/13), India (14/15) and, of course, South Africa (16 - 20) through a full programme that includes, apart from the two FynArts stalwarts, the Strauss&Co Series of talks and presentations and Bouchard Finlayson art award and exhibition, top class performances, workshops, demonstrations, book readings, films, food and drink - and armchair travel.

All Covid19 regulations applicable at the time. “We will therefore have waiting lists for all events that are sold out in case we can be allowed to increase audience sizes at the last minute or insert a repeat of the relevant event.”

For more information visit www.hermanusfynarts.co.za

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FOOD & DRINKS

Three Ships Whisky Flies The Flag For SA Whisky Excellence

THE NEWSPAPER

A New Look for Wellness South Africa’s leading natural health and wellbeing retailer, Wellness Warehouse has unveiled the second store to boast its new design and elevated customer experience with the opening of their latest store at Somerset Mall in Somerset West ... and living well has never looked so good.

Having worked tirelessly in creative collaboration behind the scenes for months, they are thrilled to finally reveal the fresh new face of Wellness. Their mission is to create a brand and space that truly reflects who they are at their core, facilitating a connection between mind and body in one seamless holistic experience.

South Africa’s multi-award winning Three Ships Whisky once again proved why it stands tall among the best whisky producers in the world – taking home no less than seven sought-after awards at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) 2021 - among these a top ‘Best in Show’ award for its Three Ships Whisky 5 Year Old. This superior blend of malt and grain whiskies with its full peaty character and smooth finish was named Best Other Whisky and earned a Double Gold medal. This is a first for South African whisky and an exceptional moment.

In addition, Three Ships Whisky scooped another two Double Golds for the Three Ships Whisky 10 Year Old Single Malt and Three Ships Whisky 11 Year Old Single Malt Shiraz Cask Finish – part of Master Distiller Andy Watt’s annual limited edition Master’s Collection; a Gold for the Three Ships Whisky 9 Year Old Fino Cask Finish – also a limited edition Master’s Collection release; a Silver for its Three Ships Whisky 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky; and a Bronze medal for the Three Ships Select Whisky.

Acknowledged as one of the world’s most prestigious spirits competitions, the SFWSC is noted for the quality of its world-class judges, many of whom are renowned experts in their fields. Its medals and awards are ranked among the worlds’ most esteemed.

Led by internationally respected Master Distiller Andy Watts, who was recently inducted into Whisky Magazine’s Whisky Hall of Fame for his life-long commitment to the South African whisky industry, the team behind the Three Ships Whisky range produces whiskies of exceptional quality and versatility at the James Sedgwick Distillery in Wellington outside of Cape Town. It is the continent’s only commercial whisky distillery - where Watts has produced the globally awarded South African Three Ships Whisky and Bain’s Cape Mountain Whisky ranges for the past 37 years.

With an unshakeable dedication to his craft and unwavering belief that South Africa can stand tall among the greatest whisky making nations in the world, there’s no doubt that Andy Watts is a pioneer of whisky who turned the tide for whisky making in our country – at a time when many predicted that producing exceptional whisky here in South Africa would simply not be possible.

Gear Up For Autumn With NESCAFÉ GOLD Plant-Based Mixes

With their consumers top of mind, NESCAFÉ GOLD has recognised the worldwide growing desire of plant-based living, which has inspired their vegan-friendly, non-dairy, plant-based mixes range, which forms part of NESCAFÉ’s ever-growing repertoire of exciting innovations and experiences. Created for the diverse and discerning, this premium range serves a variety of consumers, from the conscious who prefer plant-based diets to the sensitive lactose-intolerant.

Curated using a blend of the highest quality Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, the lattes are delectably smooth and creamy soluble drinks. They come in three variants, each with its own discerning flavour, Coconut Latte, Almond Latte and Oat Latte. The one - cup sachets are easy to prepare by simply adding hot water, stirring & enjoying.

Look out for influencers who are gearing up for the season with NESCAFÉ GOLD Plant-Based Mixes to serve you with a slice of their life, including Rati Lekalakala, Cara Frew, Zuraida Jardine and the Zulu Vegan to name a few.

The NESCAFÉ GOLD Vegan Lattes are available at all leading retailers’ country wide.

Wellness Warehouse believes that, as a society, we need to become more conscious of the relationship between what we buy as consumers, and how we live as human beings - and they are passionate about fostering this awareness in each individual who crosses their threshold. Not only is this good for people, but it is also good for the planet.

Inspired by a reverence for nature and locality, the new Wellness Warehouse brand and store design honours their deep connection to the natural environment, while supporting physical, emotional and mental wellbeing for all who inhabit it.

Most importantly, they’re here to support you on your personal journey to natural health, with stores designed to meet a range of unique needs, and a team on hand to help you connect and consume more consciously. A visit to any of the nearly 40 Wellness stores nationwide offers access to trained Wellness Consultants who are passionate about empowering individuals to make the right choices for their health and wellbeing. The Wellness footprint is rapidly expanding nationwide. The intuitive new store design and elevated customer experience will be rolled out in all their new stores going forward, so you can experience Wellness at its best wherever you are.

In addition to their growing stores across South Africa, Wellness Warehouse is a leading omni-channel retailer, with even more products available on their online store. They are proud to offer the widest choice of natural health products on the market, from supplements and health foods to natural beauty, baby and eco home solutions.

FoodForward SA Expands Food Parcel Programme

Three months after launching in the Western Cape, FoodForward SA (FFSA) is adjusting the scope of its Food Parcel Programme and expanding it nationally, to reach even more vulnerable families left destitute because of the pandemic.

Launched in January 2021, the pilot initiative was aimed at helping patients with compromised immunity, and their families who depend on them, access nutritious food. It enabled FFSA to deliver 800 food parcels per month to the homes of patients that the Western Cape Department of Health identified as requiring additional nutritional support. Each food parcel contains enough non-perishable grocery items, staple food products as well as fresh vegetables to feed a family of four to six people for a period of two to four weeks.

Because of the national expansion of FoodForward SA’s Food Parcel Programme, each month, a total of 1800 food parcels are now delivered to the homes of vulnerable people who are unable to visit FFSA’s beneficiary organisations to access food, as well as people suffering from amongst others, Covid-19, TB, HIV/Aids and other acute and chronic illnesses. A total of 10,800 people now benefit from the programme each month.

To enable additional support in the Western Cape and to distribute food parcels to families across the country, FoodForward SA is working with 22 of its beneficiary organisations that offer health care support and other essential services and that have a social – or health care worker available who can identify and monitor qualifying recipients.

The programme has received financial support from Pick n Pay’s Feed the Nation Foundation as well as The Global Foodbanking Network (GFN). To provide added nutrition to the food parcels, FFSA also uses food donations from Standard Bank’s OneFarm Share initiative.

THE NEWSPAPER

Latest Awards of 22 International Property Awards

PROPERTY

PAGE 9

LIFESTYLE

PAGE 10

THE NEWSPAPER

BEST SUSTAINABLE WINE DESTINATION AWARD FOR BENGUELA COVE Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate has won the African Excellence Award in the category Best Sustainable Wine Destination, Western Cape, organised by MEA Markets. The estate is home to many threatened species such as the Blue Crane and Cape Honeybee, which is of great importance as a pollinator in our farming landscapes. The vineyard and residential estate, located just outside Hermanus, has made it their mission to provide visitors with the most eco-friendly wine experience possible and to produce the finest wines from its vineyards. Owner Penny Streeter OBE can add this latest prize to a number of recent accolades, which included the 2020 South African Wine and Food Tourism Award for Innovation.

The African Excellence Award reflects the commitment to the standards championed by Wines of South Africa (WoSA) to meet its Sustainable Wine South Africa (SWSA) programme. At Benguela Cove there are 65 hectares under vine, where the maritime climate offers a terroir that produces grapes of distinctive quality and a sanctuary for an extraordinary range of wildlife. As part of the UNESCO-designated Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve in South Africa, the vineyard borders the Atlantic coastline and Bot River lagoon and is home to many species that are threatened in South Africa and other countries.

This includes the blue crane, also known as the Stanley crane and the paradise crane, the national bird of South Africa. There are some 26,000 remaining, following a sudden population decline from around 1980 and it is now classified as ‘vulnerable’ as a species. The South African government has stepped up legal protection for the blue crane - other conservation measures are focusing on research, habitat management, education, and recruiting the help of private landowners, such as at Benguela Cove. Many blue crane pairs have made their home at Benguela Cove’s specially demarcated breeding areas. The Cape honeybee is a valued resident of the estate too.

It is an important pollinator of flowering plants, including many Fynbos species. Honeybees are used to pollinate about 50 crop varieties across South Africa, including fruit and vegetables found in the Cape region - so they are vital to the agricultural economy.

The bees are experiencing threats that include diminishing forage resources, pests and diseases, as well as problems arising from misuse of pesticides and insecticides in the environment, says the South African Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). This is just one reason why Benguela Cove follows sustainable farming practices, including the guidelines of the Integrated Production of Wine (IPW). This ensures farming with environmentally friendly methods and without using harmful chemicals.

The vineyard operates a weather station to micromanage the farming programme. It gives Downey Mildew and Oidium pressure indicators to enable the managers to plan vineyard sprays according to disease threats and avoid unnecessary treatment. There are also biological control agents to eliminate Mealy Bug, which is responsible for introducing the roller leaf virus, which can disrupt the flow of nutrients to shoots, leaves, and vine fruit. Benguela Cove is gaining a reputation internationally as a top ecotourism destination and champion of sustainable vineyard farming. Visitors can experience wine-tasting pontoon tours on the beautiful lagoon and dining at the popular Moody Lagoon restaurant - whilst residents on the estate can enjoy this very special place year-round, with plots and properties available now to purchase direct from the developer.

For more information visit www.benguelacove.co.za

ADD SERVICE DELIVERY TO YOUR CHECKLIST In a few months time, we will be able to vote for a local authority that we view to be well-run and able to deliver essential services. But the ability of the local authority to provide basic services should also be a consideration for aspirant buyers when they are thinking about where to purchase a home, says Carl Coetzee, CEO of BetterBond.

“There are many factors to consider before looking at areas in which to live. These include whether there is adequate public transport, proximity to schools and work, if applicable, as well as access to medical facilities and retail opportunities. The level of service delivery offered by the local municipality is another important factor as it affects not only the experience of living in an area, but also the long-term return on an investment,” says Carl.

“The provision of basic services that many of us take for granted - such as refuse removal and electricity supply - is managed by the local municipality. So, it is certainly in your best interest to investigate the performance of the local authority responsible for an area before you put in an offer on a home. You may have found your dream home, but if you are going to struggle to have regular and efficient municipal services, it may be better to consider settling somewhere else. Potholes and overflowing refuse bins do not make for a pleasant living environment,” he says.

Independent ratings agency Ratings Afrika has recently released its ranking of the best performing municipalities and metropolitan areas in the country for 2020. The coastal town of Mossel Bay ranked as South Africa’s most financially sustainable municipality out of the 113 included in the study. Home to five of the top performing municipalities and metros - including Saldanha Bay, the Swartland (Malmesbury)

and Overstrand (Hermanus) - the Western Cape came out the best province in terms of sustainable local government. The City of Cape Town was named as the most financially sustainable metro.

“A municipality or metro that is run well and is financially stable is not only able to provide basic services. It is also able to withstand economic shocks such as a pandemic, and attract investment. These factors may well serve to appeal to prospective property buyers, which would mean that buying property in these areas can be a wise long-term decision, as there is a good chance of a solid return on this investment,” says Coetzee.

WE DO

SALES & RENTALS

AND WE LOVE YOUR REFERRALS!

admin@championre.co.za | www.championre.co.za | 021 975 1767

THE NEWSPAPER

JEWELLERY

PAGE 11

THE HIDDEN GEM IN THE LAND OF

GOLD AND DIAMONDS… In the heart of Cape Town lies a hidden gem, where history, geology, age-old crafts and modern trends combine amid the dazzle of diamonds and other precious gems...

In 1752 a resplendent home was built for one of Cape Town’s wealthy merchants.

This home was built on Erf No. 6 (granted by Governor Ryk Tulbagh), on the corner of what was to become Hout and Loop Streets, in the Cape Town CBD. This Early Cape-style home served as both residence to some of the wealthiest merchants of Cape Town, and as the most important distribution centre for Cape wines in the 1800’s, after Groot Constantia.

It is one of the few remaining workshops that has resisted the lure of mass production and cheap imports from the east, producing exquisite pieces at factory prices. Over the years, Prins & Prins has received awards from not only De Beers for "Excellence in Jewellery Design", but also received top honors amongst the top 5 in the Plat Africa Jewellery Design and Manufacture awards several times, a further testament to what can be expected from one of South Africa's oldest family jewellers.

Today, after a lengthy restoration in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s by internationally renowned architect team, Gabriël (Gawie) & Gwen Fagan, this property is home to one of Cape Town’s, and South Africa’s, most exclusive family owned jewellers - Prins & Prins Diamonds. Since 1982, under the ownership and guidance of Dr Petré Prins (former senior lecturer at Stellenbosch University in Mineralogy and Geology, with a PhD in Geochemistry) this company has grown into a leading manufacturing jeweller, where private consultations in historic rooms, set the scene for an unparalleled experience, when searching for diamond or gemstone jewellery.

Original artwork (circa 1792) adorn the walls of this magnificent property, where clients are seated in private offices to browse an extensive collection of some of the best of South Africa’s diamonds (all internationally and independently certified), and gemstones from around the world. In private consultations with graduate gemologists, expert designers assist in designing everything from unique engagement rings to the ultimate jewellery heirlooms.

Aurum Art, the goldsmith atelier of Prins & Prins, continues a centuries old tradition of forging metals by hand, creating the most spectacular bespoke jewellery for their clients.

Prins & Prins’ diamonds and gemstones are all certified and conflict free, providing peace of mind to the purchaser.

Their Museum of Gems and Jewellery offers a most insightful look into South Africa’s wealth of minerals, from its geological origins, through to mining and production, and its impact on South Africa’s political history since the discovery of the first diamond in South Africa in 1867.

“Examples and exhibits of jewellery worn since 15 000 BC through to modern times, gives fascinating insights into how jewellery styles changed and evolved over centuries. Going back even further in time, the oldest piece of jewellery in the world dating back to 75 000 BC, sits next to a fascinating exhibit of “cosmic jewels”, where the origin of these minerals and metals making up a collection that is truly from outer space!”, says Stéfan Doveton-Moore, Sales & Marketing Manager at Prins & Prins.

In every industry there is one company that sets the standard. A visit to Prins & Prins, one of Cape Town’s best kept secrets, will be your new benchmark.

Their diamonds are not just the hardest natural objects on earth, but sparkling wonders to warm the hearts of all women (and a few men). Created and collected by experts with a Passion for Perfection, a Prins & Prins diamond is a true gem to be worn as a symbol of love and appreciation, and to serve as a store of value, forever.

Tours of the Prins & Prins workshop, and museum, are conducted free of charge and can be scheduled at your convenience.

For bookings or to schedule a consultation, call +27 (0)21 422 1090 or email consultants@prinsandprins.com. Web: www.prinsandprins.com

PAGE 12

ENVIRONMENT

THE NEWSPAPER

The 6th Southern African Shark & Ray Symposium The Dyer Island Conservation Trust, in partnership with Marine Dynamics, is proud to be hosting the 2021 6th Southern African Shark & Ray Symposium from 17-19 November with the theme of “Catalyst for Change: Post-pandemic research on Southern African Chondrichthyans.”

“As we emerge from the pandemic the 6th SASRS will offer the chance for the African shark and ray research community to engage and share information on the status of their different projects. As usual it will include a wide range of disciplines from spatial, physiological, molecular biology, to conservation and socio-economic studies.”

The SASRS attracts marine biologists, researchers, students, conservationists, government officials, and tour operators and companies from predominantly subSaharan African countries, including Mozambique, Kenya, Namibia, and South Africa.

The 6th Southern African Shark & Ray Symposium invites delegates from diverse disciplines and interest groups to participate to ensure meaningful and robust discussions which will deliver outcomes beneficial to chondrichthyan species, marine ecosystems and human communities. Changes in some SA shark species distributions and/or numbers have highlighted the fact that collaborative chondrichthyan research has never been more urgent. Furthermore, the global pandemic has resulted in many pressures, limiting, or preventing ongoing field work, such as travel restrictions, lab closures, research that is dependent on eco-tourism, or government departments that were locked down for months.

The Dyer Island Conservation Trust, based in Gansbaai, has since 2006 supported marine research, conservation, and education. A key objective through the

Photo: Great White Shark - Photo Credit: Marine Dynamics

research is to protect the long-term future of the local marine species, by translating knowledge into evidence-based conservation initiatives and legislation. The Marine Dynamics vessels have provided a critical observational platform as well as operational and financial support to various projects including observational, environmental, and telemetry based shark research.

Cango Wildlife Ranch - Hanging in there!

The Cango Wildlife Ranch (CWR) in Oudtshoorn have powered through one of the most challenging times in the facility’s history. “Our sails had never been so windless and our fundraising endeavours were drained. The pandemic threw the world a curve ball and we were not prepared.”

“At the time, we were in the planning stages of a new exhibit when the virus spread. Everything we had planned, ground to an extreme halt, and after 35 years, we had to close our doors to the public, thankfully only temporarily.”

Four Choloepus didactylus, more commonly known as Linnaeus’s Two-toed Sloths joined the CWR family on 10 May 2021. Also known as the Southern Two-toed sloth, it takes its name from the two curved claws at the end of each limb.

The impressive biology of a sloth allows it to spend 90% of its life hanging upside down which is made possible by their organs being attached to their rib cage to eliminate pressure on the lungs. As sloths go, these are considered large with an average length of around 65cm.

Their hair parts from the stomach downwards to their back, allowing water to run off in rainstorms, and its natural tan colour is often tinged with green from algal growth.

Unique grooves in the hair facilitate this growth of algae, which helps camouflage the sloth against predators.

To conserve energy, sloths move slower than any other mammal on the planet.

This modest pace means that sloths generally travel no more than 38 meters in a single day, and on the rare occasion that they find themselves at ground level, they crawl only 30cm per minute.

Sloths are notoriously leisurely in all aspects of their life and only descending from the canopies to move from one tree to another or to defecate. When they are on the ground, they are extremely vulnerable to predation, and as a result, they have bladders and rectums with a very high capacity, allowing them to wait as long as a week before descending! They range from Venezuela and Colombia into eastern Ecuador, as far south as Peru and across to the Atlantic coasts of northern Brazil.

As things slowly returned to ‘normal’, we decided to make our new exhibit a reality once again! Amazonia, now a token of thanks to our dedicated supporters and another wonderful part of the world that we will be able to highlight and educate the public on daily.

“Our sloths have joined us from a centre called Noah’s Ark, and now form part of only 3 accredited facilities in South Africa to house these magnificent creatures.

We are hard at work to ensure that their habitats meet all their tropical needs, and they will therefore find temporary sanctuary in our Tropical Temple in the ‘Valley of Ancients’ while we complete their state-of-the-art home in Amazonia.” To fully admire and appreciate these fascinating beings, please visit Cango Wildlife Ranch in Oudtshoorn – where you can meet Sid, Wookie, Shaggy and Moxie.

For more information visit www.cango.co.za

THE NEWSPAPER

REALTY

PAGE 13

Own your slice of Paradise in Europe

Welcome to Cyprus! Imagine 320 days of sunshine, the crystal blue Mediterranean Sea, 66 blue-flag beaches, majestic sunsets, picturesque natural surroundings and a way of life similar to South Africa. This is all on offer in Cyprus – an Englishspeaking, full member of the EU. The Mediterranean lifestyle is about scrumptious cuisine & enjoying life to the full.

Cyprus represents being a very popular investment, retirement & relocation destination for South Africans. Properties in Cyprus offer exceptional value for money when compared to other European countries – especially homes right on or near to The Med. The choice of where to buy is very personal and the type of property depends on your lifestyle requirements, your budget and also your short, medium & long term plans.

The lush & beautiful city of Paphos on the Western side of the island is very similar to the Western Cape and year-on-year continues to enjoy the most demand from investors. There are 4 world class golf estates, an abundance of fine dining venues, numerous wine routes and a plethora of outdoor activities. Paphos is also a very cosmopolitan town and the entire picturesque province is the nicest and most secure part of the Island, where magical waterfront locations provide a sublime setting & idyllic lifestyle for discerning buyers.

The key benefit of buying a property in Cyprus and owning your slice of paradise is that the property investment automatically comes with acquiring permanent residency – thereby tangibly benefitting your family for generations to come.

A new home in a new country is the achievement of a lifetime and an investment in the future for the next generation.

In Cyprus the investment options really are the best. Living is laid back and you set your own pace. And what better place to do this than where the blue skies meet the Mediterranean Sea: on the beautiful island of Cyprus.

Cypriot Realty – a proudly South African company in operation for more than 13 years – can assist you. We are recognised and respected as Southern Africa’s authoritative offshore investment specialists, promoting Cyprus as an ideal destination for acquiring permanent residency, property investment, immigration or retirement and starting an EU-based business - we understand investor’s needs.

Contact us for a confidential meeting to discuss how Cyprus can fit in with your offshore plans – we will assist and guide you every step of the way to realise Your Plan B.

BUSINESS

PAGE 14

THE NEWSPAPER

COWORKING OFFICE SPACE NOW AVAILABLE Remote working has become a whole lot easier for residents and businesses of the Helderberg area with the opening of a new coworking office space. Located at the trendy Sanctuary Mall in Somerset West, Venture Workspace offers the perfect solution for all remote working needs, whether you are a freelancer, small business or larger company.

A home away from home, the coworking packages on offer include hotdesking, fully serviced shared or private offices, virtual offices and meeting rooms. All utilities, internet connection and reception assistance are also included with the added bonus of free parking.

The ‘new normal’ is demanding a more flexible work environment, and Venture Workspace is spearheading the drive for companies to provide their employees with added value and alternative working solutions. By opting for a coworking package, businesses can enjoy the following benefits: Flexibility – without long-term leases and penalties, companies have the freedom to grow and scale their business, while offering their employees flexible working solutions.

Affordability - you only pay for what your business needs now. Companies can significantly reduce their monthly costs by not having to fork out the usually fixed office costs such as internet connection, parking, long-term equipment leases (e.g., printers), cleaning and reception staff, office maintenance, electricity, coffee, toilet paper etc.

Productivity – with office management taken care of workers can focus on their tasks. The work-life balance that comes with coworking spaces also makes for happier employees who are more motivated and productive.

For more information visit www.ventureworkspace.co.za or call 021 035 1400

TURNING GREAT STRATEGY INTO GREAT PERFORMANCE! The Balanced Scorecard Institute of South Africa (BSCISA) will present their 2021 Executive Programme (EP) on 16 July and 30 July at Technopark in Stellenbosch sponsored by Toyota Stellenbosch, Highberry Winery and SASFIN Bank.

This Executive Programme (5 modules) is meant for corporate and public companies and institutions who need to dramatically increase their business performance by facilitating practical performance targets, delivering results by streamlining operations and building capacity through excellence services.

Goals of this programme: Introducing the basics of Strategy; Build, Implement

and manage with a Balanced Scorecard (BSC) System and Strategy Map. This will enable participants to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to implement a BSC.The Balanced Scorecard Institute of South Africa (BSCISA) was formed in 1999 after discussions with Proff Kaplan and Norton from the Business School in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. The BSCISA owns four trademarks, BSC SA, BSCI AFRICA, BSC UK and BSC EUROPE. The new trademark will expire in November 2031. The BSCI trained 12 000 people and supported 130 organisations on 3 continents.

The value proposition of the BSCISA is to: Align processes and actions with mission and vision, Create line-of-sight from KPA’s and KPI’s bases on mandates of boards, excos and senior management, Ensure that the right people are in the right place, and Create your future by applying the BSCISA strategy assessment and strategy mapping tools, performance assessment and tracker tools, and value curve tool.

The BSCISA is the main sponsor for years of the international conference on information communication technologies in education.

Prof Johan Hough is the founding and managing partner since 1991 and the coauthor of six books on strategy, global business and entrepreneurship. He is the strategy business developer for Ishango. College and MyElearning.Education and also involved with the Milpard Business School and False Bay College.

For more information contact 082 452 4393 or visit www.balancedscorecardsa.co.za

EVENTS

THE NEWSPAPER

WORLD CUP RUGBY SEVENS DATES CONFIRMED FOR CAPE TOWN

PAGE 15

ALL SYSTEMS GO

FOR 2021 BERG RIVER CANOE MARATHON The countdown to the 60th anniversary edition of the Berg River Canoe Marathon has begun. The race organisers have confirmed that they have plans in place to stage the four-day classic from Paarl to Velddrif from 7 - 10 July 2021 in full compliance with the prevailing lockdown regulations.

After more than a year during which the lockdown forced the cancellation of many sporting events, including the 2020 Berg marathon, there is a heightened interest in taking on the 240km odyssey to the Cape West Coast in July.

Race organisers have put in place plans that will enable the race to be staged within the protocols negotiated by Canoeing South Africa and successfully employed during the revised calendar of summer events, including the MyLife Dusi Canoe Marathon.

World Rugby and hosts, SA Rugby, confirmed that Rugby World Cup Sevens 2022 in Cape Town will take place next year from 9 - 11 September, with the Springbok Sevens and Imbokodo teams included on the playing roster.

The eighth edition – which will be contested by 24 men’s and 16 women’s teams – is the first to be hosted in Africa with organisers anticipating a very special and record-breaking event at the iconic Cape Town Stadium. The top eight men’s teams and top four women’s teams from the hugely successful RWC Sevens 2018 in San Francisco, USA, have already secured automatic qualification for the tournament in 2022.

These involve doing away with registrations and prize-givings, overnight accommodation and other interactions that are in conflict with the social distancing requirements, smaller batches, strict sanitisation protocols, screening and taking of each person’s temperature daily and the requirement that all participants wear masks right up to the moment they are called to the water to start their paddle each day. Each paddler will be allowed one person to act as a technical support, but spectators will not be allowed at the event, in adherence to the CSA negotiated protocols.

The qualified teams for the men’s event are defending champions New Zealand, England, the Blitzboks, Fiji, Argentina, USA, France, and Scotland. Amongst the women’s teams, the Springbok Women’s Sevens side will join defending champions New Zealand, France, Australia and USA in Cape Town.

Teams that have not qualified automatically will do so via their respective regional tournaments held in Europe, Oceania, Asia, North America, South America, and Africa. With 16 places available in the men’s tournament and 11 in the women’s from regional competitions. The HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series will no longer form part of the qualification pathway for Rugby World Cup Sevens.

Photo: Boros Solomon - Photo Credit: John Hishin/Gameplan Media

Alongside confirmation of the dates and new qualification pathway, the bespoke tournament brand, developed by World Rugby and SA Rugby, has also been unveiled. The striking brand radiates unity, energy and passion and celebrates the spirit of rugby sevens that will ignite Cape Town’s finest rugby stage, as the top men’s and women’s teams from around the world compete to be crowned world champions.

“The nature of the Berg lends itself to social distancing between the participants, as the long distances and the very nature of canoeing means that paddlers do not come into close proximity of each other,” said organiser Brandon Macleod. He added that entries in K2s were being taken, to make the race more accessible to the broader paddling community.

In addition, RWC Sevens 2018 attracted cumulative domestic and global broadcast audiences of more than 24 million and 31 million viewers respectively, which included a record-breaking live broadcast audience of 1.7 million on its final day.

“Finishing a Berg in a K1 is an accomplishment respected the world over, and the interest and support for the Ultra Paddle shows a keen interest amongst paddlers to test themselves against these long distances,” Macleod added.

Details of the ticket sales launch will be announced later this year

For more information visit www.berg.org.za

ANNUAL 3-DAY LADIES TOUR MTB TO TAKE PLACE IN OCTOBER The annual 3-day Ladies MTB event will take place from 15 - 17 October 2021 at the Wederom Guest Farm located in the picturesque wine-producing valley of Robertson - bringing the cyclist closer to the various biospheres and the beauty of nature.

Each stage will start and finished at the Wederom Guest farm and after three days the ladies will have covered a distance of 150km along the Breede river, wine farms and endured the trails in and around Robertson and the Rooiberg area. The cyclists will experience limited single track during the 3-days.

The cost of R4,550 per rider includes: back-up vehicle support, a cycling shirt, 3 breakfasts, 3 lunch packs, 3 suppers, and 3 night shared guest house accommodation at the Wederom Wine Farm Guest House.

For more information Contact Johan on 082 938 9886 or visit www.mountainbikeadventuretours.co.za

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EDITION #87

stories that are life changing

RESET & REJUVENATE WITH MYSTERY WEEKENDS In these turbulent times we find ourselves in why not treat yourself to an all-inclusive winelands getaway, where your weekend has been meticulously planned for you from check in to check out. Franschhoek’s popular Mystery Weekends hold the promise of surprise, relaxation and pure indulgence.

Your all-encompassing weekend includes all that Franschhoek is known for – from luxurious accommodation, award-winning wines, gourmet cuisine and bespoke experiences. Since its inception in 2012 the Mystery Weekends have welcomed more than 2 000 visitors to the region, reaffirming Franschhoek as one of SA’s premier travel destinations.

The Franschhoek Mystery Weekends are ideally suited to couples, seeking time out from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The allure of the weekend is that you don’t need to book a single thing as it is all taken care of for you.

Your experience starts with an exclusive (and unconventional) check in event planned for all guests. Mingle over a glass of wine before opening your special Mystery Weekend box, which contains all of the exciting details as to where you’ll be staying, where you’ll be dining and what you’ll be experiencing, including a fun and informal evening where you are welcomed to the valley in true Franschhoek fashion.

Although most of your weekend is pre-planned there is ample time to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the village to browse the local market, art galleries, artisanal chocolate shops and bespoke boutique ateliers you’re bound to discover.

The confirmed dates for this year’s Franschhoek Mystery Weekends are 25 - 27 June; 30 July - 1 August; with the final weekend set for 27 - 29 August.

For more information contact Carmen Arendse on mysteryweekend@franschhoek.org.za

KNYSNA OYSTER FESTIVAL OFFERS MORE THAN USUAL MID-YEAR BREAK With many international leisure travel restrictions still in place, Knysna invites you to substitute your usual mid-year break abroad with ten days of fun, adventure and food at the Knysna Oyster Festival from 9 - 18 July this year, made up of an exciting mix of physical and virtual offerings and activities.

According to Festival Coordinator Andew Finn the festival mainstays will be taking place, albeit in different formats.

The Knysna Cycle Tour will be taking place under COVID-19 prevention protocols and also include categories for E-Bikes. The Knysna Forest Marathon will, however, not be presented as in the past but, has been transformed into the In Knysna Virtual Marathon for this year.

The festival’s theme of STAY, WORK, PLAY is built on three factors. Put together, they make the greater Knysna area the perfect destination from which to work remotely, while staying in comfortable accommodation establishments and playing at the festival and other local activities. Visit Knysna General Manager Colleen Durant said the area boasts with fantastic accommodation options for visitors to STAY at. From high end, ultra luxurious hotels and guest-houses to self-catering chalets and backpackers.

A large part of what makes the 2021 Knysna Oyster Festival unique is that professionals who work remotely can do so from Knysna for the duration of the festival, or longer as The greater Knysna area boasts fast, reliable fiber-, broadband- and LTE Internet connections.

Photo: Knysna Cycle Tour Photo Credit: Elle Photography

There will also be wine evenings, live entertainment, family events and kids’ entertainment. While not yet finalised, the programme already includes a Winter Christmas Market in Sedgefield, a sailing regatta, the Houtkapper Trail Run and children’s activities. Entries to the In Knysna Virtual Marathon and the Knysna Cycle Tour are now open.

For more information visit www.knysnacycle.co.za

Bring your life Somerset West Shop 6 The Hub, Somerset Triangle 021 8500 514 076 8783 832 vos@bikerack.co.za