Irene Town Crier June 2016

IRENE

1

Town Crier Jun 2016 / Living in peace

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

2

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

3

CONTENTS Living in Peace You said it Irene Garden Club From the ILA Destination Irene Irene Long table dinner Street braais Irene Homes Fete Small businesses Small cries Important numbers

04 06 09 12 16 18 19 21 26 28 30

Deadline for the July 2016 issue of Irene Town Crier is 30 June 2016.

Front cover photo: Julia Davies Advertising and editorial contact: Tracey Garde 082 460 6007 info@tlgpublishing.co.za

I

rene Town Crier is published by TLG Publishing (Pty) Ltd. All material is subject to copyright and permission to reproduce may be obtained from the publisher. Editorial contributions are welcome and can be sent to the publisher. All rights in said editorial contributions, whether it be in the form of a letter or article and whether it includes graphics or not, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for the publication and copyright purposes and material will be subject to TLG Publishing’s unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially.

TLG Publishing will place editorial contributions at it’s own discretion, space allowing.

07 10 18 June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

4

LIVING IN

Peace

Judging from the amount of phone calls and emails I’ve had of late from residents asking about whether or not they’ve missed an issue of Irene Town Crier, I’m pleased to say that our village magazine is well read (and well loved!).

U

nfortunately soon after returning from the April holidays, my father became very ill and I spent a number of weeks by his side in hospital until he sadly passed away… The weeks of uncertainty and the many hours visiting as well as travelling to and from the hospital, left very little time to concentrate on getting an issue of Irene Town Crier out and so I sincerely apologise to those who have patiently waited for this issue to land on their doorstep.

At the same time I would like to thank those who knew of the situation and not only offered support, but understood the delay in getting this issue out and continued to share their valued advice. Unfortunately, life sometimes unexpectedly throws difficult times our way when we least expect it and this was one such time. Finally getting around to putting this issue together, I can say that I am feeling more at peace with the

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

loss and hopefully will continue to heal from here on out.

On a happier note, quiet a lot has happened in the Village since our last issue.

The pages of this issue are filled with happy pictures of events such as the Long table dinner, street braai and Irene Homes fete to name a few.

The ILA have included a piece on the recent monkey sightings in the village – something which has been more frequent this year as the drought has left them searching for food further than their usual territory. Please read this editorial and take down the person to contact should you spot a roaming monkey in your yard.

As winter is in full swing, I see many Irene chimneys hard at work for most of us are fortunate enough to enjoy a good fireplace in our living rooms. I hope you get to soak up the warm winter daytime sun and snuggle up during the cold evenings. We have yet to wake up to frozen water pipes in the morning so I suspect the weather is still going to get chillier – time to get even more blankets/ jerseys and scarves out…

Till next month

Tracey

5

What’s On 2016

JULY Irene Village Market @ The Big Red Barn

Peter Rabbit and his friends - Irene Village Hall

3

10

4

Peter Rabbit and his friends - Irene Village Hall

11

24

18

25

2

Organic Market @ Smuts House

Paper Pick up

5

6

7

8

9

12

13

14

15

16

Organic Market @ Smuts House

Paper Pick up

20

21

22

23

Organic Market @ Smuts House

Paper Pick up & The Stall

27

28

29

Market @ Smuts Museum 8am-2pm & Irene Village Market @ The Red 30Big Barn

School re-opens

17

1

19

26

Organic Market @ Smuts House

Paper Pick up

Market @ Smuts Museum 8am-2pm

Irene Garden Club

The Stall is a monthly market held at Southdowns Shopping Centre.

For more information about the Irene Garden Club please contact Lucia on 083 272 5268.

If you have an event that you would like to feature in What’s on please email the details to info@tlgpublishing.co.za.

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

6

YOU SAID IT

A village filled with history

W

e found this invite in our archives - very interesting…

Unveiling of Monument on the Irene Oval: 17 September 2011 at 18h00 You are invited to attend the unveiling of a monument at the Irene Oval. The function is arranged by the Polsslag Voortrekker Commando, who has built and sponsored the monument.

The Oval originates in the concentration camp that was established during the Anglo Boer-war in 1901. Lieutenant Alexander Bruce RAMC established a sports field in the middle of the camp to lift the morale of the inmates. We are going to be very honoured to have his great-granddaughter present who is travelling from the UK for the event. The Oval is still on the original location.

A time capsule will also be placed in the monument and anyone who attends will have the opportunity to place a letter no larger than 10 x 12cm in the container.

Is this your Christmas card?

A

fter Christmas I found some partially destroyed letters and cards in our garden. I managed to trace owners of all but one. The only legible word in the address is "Albert" - the envelope is virtually destroyed, but the card itself is still in reasonable shape. It is addressed to Val and family, from Sue and John in the UK, (possibly Ireland). If this is meant for you, please ring me (Lynn) on 012 667 2808 so I can drop it off. _____________________________________ Thanks guys!

R

ecently, when a tree was blown across Bruce Road endangering traffic, a cantankerous old man of our community was seen to be struggling to cut and move it.

In no time a group of young men arrived to assist.

Regards

Shortly after the tree was cut into manageable pieces and moved safely off the road.

Belinda and Susan Bouillon

Well done chaps, you are a credit to our community.

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

7 SAPS pulling their weight

S

APS are now patrolling Smuts Koppie area most Saturdays and Sundays between approximately 09h00 to 11h00 and 14h00 to 16h00. This is a little late for the early bird cyclists, but ideal for walkers and the lazy/easy riders.

They (SAPS) usually park on the top of the ridge & carry out foot patrols.

Sightings @ Irene Country Club

D

uring a weekly course inspection in April 2016, Irene Country Club staff came across this great bird sighting on the course. The African-Harrier Hawk was seen between the 6th and 7th Hole. We are blessed to be able to have so many of these birds call our Country Club home.

It is still recommended to cycling/walking groups and confirming their presence.

They are also patrolling the railway lines most nights.

SAPS were prompt to react to a recent armed robbery in Irene and have been thorough in follow-up activities.

It is reassuring that Lyttelton SAPS are pulling their weight – please give them your support and let them know that we appreciate their efforts.

The opinions expressed in this readers’ column are not necessarily shared by the publisher of the Irene Town Crier. Readers’ views can be emailed to info@tlgpublishing.co.za.

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

8 MUNICIPAL overhead electricity supplies A short information article

by Graham Finbow

I

’ve written a few articles for the Town Crier (Generators, CoC’s etc) but an incident a few weeks back definitely needs sharing with fellow residents.

I was called out to a thatched house in Lotus Lane. The residents’ complained of shocks from the shower and even from the garden tap. When I inspected the property, I saw that the plumbing at all 3 of the geysers had no ‘bonding’. That’s an earth strap connecting the hot and cold pipes to the earthing of the house. So put that right. Next, was the house connected to the municipal earth? Yes, I measured it and it was well within spec.

being able to get access to all the houses around and switch them on and off, only one thing to do. Phone the municipality (012) 358 9999. Next morning about 5 bakkies turned up and two and a half days later they had found the problem.

The house next door has a tin roof and an old overhead supply. The house was probably built over 50 years ago. The insulators going through the roof had broken and the neutral was now connected to the roof. Consequently all the guttering and down pipes were pumping 230 Volts into the surrounding lawns and the neighbours properties.

So, the physical house earthing was connected to the municipal earth and all the pipework was bonded. Why then was I still measuring 60 volts between the flower bed and the pipework in the house? Ever weirder was that I could stick the probes of my multimeter into the lawn and measure 60 volts between them. Only conclusion was that something in the area was pumping power into the ground around the house.

The municipal guys immediately took the old connections out and put and underground cable in. Problem solved and possibly lives saved.

Fortunately, I have a very nice cable tracer and using that, traced the source of the power to a section of the wall dividing the house with the property next door. Not

Graham Finbow (Registered Electrical Contractor and Irene resident for 20 years) 084 742 7689 or 012 667 2532.

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

So, if you have any strange tingling from the taps or feel there’s something up with the power, don’t hesitate to give me a call. This problem was exacerbated by the rains that we’d had and could have had a tragic outcome.

IRENE GARDEN

J

Club

UST ORGANIC! This was the theme of our April 2016 meeting at Jean Trollope’s home in Stopford Road. Our guest speaker was none other than the owner of Just Organic, John Masterten-Smith.

As John explained: • Organic fertilizers have been used for many years. Their popularity has increased significantly because of the dangers inorganic fertilizers have on crops, soils and water systems.

• John recognised a need in South Africa for a cured cattle fertilizer, which was organic, environmentally, user and pet friendly. Thus, his family-run business was born in 2014. You will now see his products at the tills of many nurseries!

• Cattle manure is turned and cured over a six month period. Temperatures within the compost rise above 65 °C - this sterilizes the composted material, breaking down any weed seed and pathogens.

• The composted material is then sieved through a double screening process, ridding it of foreign objects prior to mixing.

• The sieved mixture combined with other organic material, is carefully weighed to ensure consistent quality.

• •

9

His fertilizers do not contain chemical salts which can burn vegetation.

Just Organic fertilizers are environmentally friendly - they have no added chemicals, making them both child and pet friendly when applied to your garden or lawns.

What a wonderful morning we had and as we each went home with a complimentary bag of Just Organic crumbles or pellets, we were all inspired to GO ORGANIC! With winter here, the crumbles are perfect for our winter herb and veggie gardens!

For more information about Just Organic products and where you can buy them, visit www.ofmsa.co.za or the Just Organic Facebook page.

Yours in gardening

Irene Garden Club For further information call Lucia on 083 272 5268.

We learnt that: • Enriching the soil with organic matter improves soil structure which improves water retention and nutrients in the soil.

• John’s fertilizers release nutrients naturally, in a slow and consistent flow.

No single nutrient dominates - plants therefore receive a balanced diet.

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

10

TSHWANE SPCA

Wag-a-walk

Although the weather incredibly cleared up between 07h00 and 10h00 on Sunday, 15 May 2016 for the Tshwane SPCA Wag-awalk at Smuts House, the rain was so bad on Saturday that the route was unable to be marked out. However, quite a few people and their dogs bared the cold and had a crisp walk! Everyone who arrived was informed that the route wasn’t marked out and so the race was ofďŹ cially cancelled but they were still welcome to walk. These people still went ahead and walked as well as insisted on giving the Tshwane SPCA a donation! The R2 600 that was raised will go towards doing outreach sterilisations and vaccinations.

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

11

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

12

MONKEYS

W

in Irene!

onderful for some and a worry for others. Following a number of sightings of vervet monkeys these last few months, we have consulted two wildlife experts and this is what they had to say: • From a conservation point of view, this is good news! The ever resourceful vervet monkey is looking for an alternative food source to beat the drought which has taken its toll on all wildlife in the surrounding veld. If they didn’t do this they would starve.

• Monkeys will normally return to their original habitat once their normal food supply is restored.

• We usually see monkeys in Irene about twice a year – mostly in the South of the village. This year they have been seen as far North as Alexandra Rd, indicative of the search for more food.

• If left alone, monkeys will not cause us any harm. They will not wilfully attack unless threatened. They normally prey on small mice and lizards and will eat berries and fruit from the trees.

• It is advised not to put fruit out on low bird tables this winter. Do not leave food on a window sill or place a bowl of fruit on a table near a window.

• Do not chase, throw stones, shoot or corner a monkey - if left alone, they will move on. Maintain a safe distance and call your dogs off if you hear them

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

•

•

barking at a monkey.

Residents are reminded that it is an offence to shoot or injure any bird or wild animal. The advice given is to accept the monkeys passing through the village, taking a few simple steps to protect ourselves until they decide to move back into the veld.

Should a monkey really become a nuisance or a danger, please contact the Tshwane Problem Animal Control Centre - Hencke Marais on 012 358 1728 or email henckem@tshwane.gov. za. Please also contact the centre if you see any monkey that appears to be injured.

Kind regards Your ILA

DEAR IRENE RESIDENTS & ILA MEMBERS

13

Winter is here!

EBS guards

The evenings are really cold now! The guards are now sporting scarves and woolly hats to keep the chill out at night. Donations of hot chocolate, coffee, tea, creamer and sugar would be greatly appreciated. Items may be delivered to Dawie, EBS Manager, at The Oval. We would like to extend a very BIG THANK YOU to our regular contributors!

Any complaint concerning the guards should be referred directly to Dawie Visser, EBS Manager at The Oval, and not at the guards themselves. It should also be noted that guards have specific duties, as instructed by their management, and cannot enter into any discussion with residents. These duties may change from time to time in response to the security situation in or around the village.

Verbal abuse towards a guard or assault is unacceptable.

Over active alarms There is still a large number of alarms that are constantly being activated for no reason. These activations are often related to beams. Residents should try and determine why their alarm is over active and take steps to prevent this, please.

Electric fence We constantly have to repair our perimeter electric fence due to overhanging or swaying branches. We again appeal to our perimeter residents to assist by keeping trees, shrubs and creepers far enough away from the wires so as not to touch them.

Residents who wish to make changes to their perimeter walls or gates should please contact Jan Swanepoel so that he can make arrangements to ensure the fence is not damaged by building work.

Vandalism A number of road signs and booms have been deliberately damaged! This behaviour is unacceptable and the ILA intends to take a strong stance against this in the future by filing criminal reports. Where we have video footage, this will be presented as evidence.

Ama krap krap (bin scratchers) We try to prevent this but these entrepreneurs are increasing by the week and we, the residents, are the cause! The answer is simple – RECYCLE, RECYCLE, RECYCLE! Separate all your recyclables and take them to Irene Homes – it couldn’t be easier. You will reduce your real rubbish to almost nothing and the bin scratchers will move on!

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

14

DEAR IRENE RESIDENTS & ILA MEMBERS CONTINUED...

Residents are also asked not to put out large items e.g. computers, printers, pool pumps, fridges – yes, we have even seen a fridge on the sidewalk! The Municipal trucks will not take these items and so they, too, become easy pickings for the bin scratchers!

in our beautiful village. Your support would be much appreciated, please.

In closing, the ILA Directors and staff would like to thank all ILA members for their loyal support and valued contribution towards our security. We would welcome enquiries from non-members about our services which we provide for the safety of everyone

Contacts:

Kind regards The ILA Team

• •

Jan Swanepoel: 083 607 6600, jan.swanepoel@irene.co.za Alyson Lea-Cox: 072 714 3740, ilamanager@irene.co.za.

We specialise in giving our clients the best service in their printing needs.

Proofs will be signed at your doorstep to ensure that you are happy.

For more Information please contact us at 071 354 5727

• LOW AND HIGH VOLUME COPYING • TRAINING MANUALS • THESIS PRINTING AND BINDING • BUSINESS CARDS • CAR MAGNETS AND BANNERS • SIGN BOARDS

CONTACT NN PRINTING ON 082 897 7898 Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

15 LEAPFROG Easter surprise

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

16

Grazing our way through winter…

You either love it or hate it but one thing is for sure, winter means us ladies can hide a few extra kilos under our coats which is extremely useful when all the cold weather prompts comfort eating!

Mooira rang me last night to say that she would like to escape the cold weather in the Midlands (they moved to greener pastures earlier this year and yes, it’s even colder there!), so we’ve decided on a moovelous, well-deserved cows weekend. I caught a sneak peek at Camdeboo Day Spa’s Winter Bliss special and when I mentioned it to Mooira she was moorse excited. I mooed, ‘’Mooira, it’s a SIX Timeless Skin Treatment (great for our winter coats) followed by a Taster Buff & Go, then we will put our hooves up and enjoy a cup of tea with a slice of cake for only R835 per person,” and her response was, “Moofect!”

I’ve also mentioned the fact that vouchers for various packages for Camdeboo Day Spa can be bought online to Bill, in the hope that he and Stan (Mooira’s bull) would think to book some surprise spoils for their ladies – sometimes our men need a little nudge in the right direction!

Mooira was worried about leaving the herd

behind as the calves will be on school holidays and Stan can’t really cope with them on his own, so they’ve decided to make a long weekend of it and take advantage of the Family Fun Getaway package that African Pride Irene Country Lodge still has on offer. The calves will have a complimentary interleading room and they eat breakfast for free.

As I mentioned earlier, this winter weather makes us hungrier than usual but as always, at Destination Irene we are spoilt for choice… on the menu for our weekend: The African Pride Irene Country Lodge Buffet Breakfast is a scrumptious way to start any winter day. Home roasted plunger coffee or a pot of international tea served at the table on arrival will do well for a start. Bill also suggested it to Stan as a great venue for ‘potential new business’ breakfast meetings whilst he’s here.

Lunch time is a breeze with the Irene Dairy Farm offering a great lunch menu so Mooira and I can ensure everyone is well fed. The calves will run around whilst the fresh winter air and warm winter sun will do them good.

On Friday evening (4pm to 7pm) we will be tucking into the BBQ Lakeside Special Menu.

(Also available on Saturdays from 11am to 7pm.)

African Pride Irene Country Lodge, Nellmapius Drive, Irene, Gauteng | Tel: 012 667 6464 Fax: 012 667 6476 | Email: lodge@irenecountrylodge.co.za | Web: www.irenecountrylodge.co.za

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

17 A unique American-Style BBQ prepared by Executive Chef, Hanroe Erasmus, who acquired his skills from travelling and cooking in the USA, with a selection of the finest Craft beers – Bill and Stan are going to love this evening out.

night… sorted.

Saturday Night Live promotions at Meadow Green Restaurant are the perfect night out where the entire buffet is a Chefs theatre - you can see the food being freshly made, plated and served. Bill is especially impressed by the spectacular range of wines on offer by the glass from the vinoteque walk-in cellar. Saturday

Mooira and I aren’t too worried about the extra kilos under our coats, that’s what spring time resolutions are for!

Before Mooira and her herd head home, Sunday Lunch (Meadow Green Restaurant from 1pm to 3pm) is booked.

Keep warm everyone… till next month

The Dairy Cow

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

18

IRENE

Long table dinner

S

ometimes borrowing ideas from other places can be fun. One such a borrowed idea was the first Irene Long Table Dinner, held early in March in a section of Queen Street. The original Long Table Dinner is held annually in Stellenbosch.

My neighbour Zani and I decided to celebrate the number of March birthdays between our two families by having a Long Table Dinner. One of the birthdays was a ‘big’ one, therefore all the more reason to have a function with a difference.

The evening was superb, from the catering, the friends and family attending to the perfect weather. Even the fact that there was an event at the Village Hall (about which we didn’t know) that resulted in more than normal Saturday evening traffic

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

in Queen Street, added to the excitement and atmosphere of the event. Proof of this was that, at 12am all the guests were still seated at the table and merrily chatting along and enjoying themselves… the oldest guest, being more than 80 years old only left at 12h30.

Our thanks to all the road users who smiled, waved and had patience on the odd occasion when there were two cars wanting to pass. Thanks also to EBS for lending us the chevron signs.

Wouldn’t it be great to extend this initiative to include the whole of Irene? Here’s the challenge: let’s fill the street around the Oval next year! Possible? I think it is… Watch this space!

Carien van der Watt

STREET BRAAIS

in Irene

19

W

e so often just drive or walk past each other not knowing one another so Jawitz has recently started hosting Street Braai’s in Irene in an effort to “Get to know your neighbour”.

The first Street braai was in March 2016 in Stanhope and Cromwell Streets. Igor, a professional violin player all the way from Switzerland, was there to entertain whilst residents got to chat!

The second Street Braai was held in April in Iris Lane. About 53 residents came to the braai and some knew each other from many years ago but never knew they stayed in the same street!

Liza and Chantal, both Irene residents will continue to schedule and arrange Street Braais around the village. Make sure you don’t miss out!

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

20

C

CORNWALL HILL

College Pipe Band

ornwall Hill College is blessed with a very unique, talented and dedicated group of musicians.

On cold, frosty Highveld mornings (come rain or shine) they proudly don their Cornwall Hunting tartan kilts and armed with bagpipes and drums battle it out for top positions at regional and national pipe band competitions.

The Cornwall Hill College Pipe Band is still in its infancy, but already they have become a force to be reckoned with in the piping community. These pupils, ranging from as young as grade 5 through to matric, under the patient, passionate tutolage of Mr Paul Ross, Mrs Stef Ross and Mr Richard Dockerill, dedicate many hours a week (both on and off season) to hone their skills. They

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

not only have to master their instruments (which in the case of bagpipes can take many years!) but they also need to perform as a unit – with military timing and precision.

The Pipe Band not only competes on a regular basis, but also performs at various functions across Gauteng, delighting young and old with their wide repertoire of Scottish tunes. On 17 May, they proudly represented Cornwall Hill College at the 115th birthday celebrations of Irene Primary School, providing great enjoyment to both the staff and pupils.

For queries regarding the Pipe Band please contact Paul Ross at p.ross@ cornwall.co.za or Karen Cameron at chcpipeband@gmail.com.

IRENE HOMES

Fete 2016

21

Irene Homes annual Fete was once again, enjoyed by all. Thanks to all the local residents and loyal supporters, a proďŹ t of R228 000 was made.

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

22

M

THE JEWEL

on our doorstep

ost of us acknowledge and appreciate that we live in a ‘jewel’ of a suburb. However, few of us take advantage of the fact that we have another jewel very close by. Rietvlei is all of 5 or 6 km from Irene and has lots to offer - mostly of the outdoor type.

Despite the proximity to the urban areas, one has the feeling of being remote whilst in Rietvlei and this tranquillity is a welcome relief from the daily hustle and bustle most of us live in.

Watching the sun or moon rise over the dam to the call of a fish eagle or jackals, gives a sense of being ‘in Africa’ and this before or after a training session it is all the more rewarding. A cup of hot coffee or a braai does nothing to detract from the experience.

I have been involved at Rietvlei in various capacities for a number of years and every time after visiting, I come away refreshed and invigorated. It is a pleasure and privilege to be able to sail or paddle on the beautiful

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

dam and visits to the reserve enable one to experience ‘nature’, be it plant life, insects, birds or game in abundance with different sightings almost every time.

Brief history The water supply dam was built during the “Great Depression” (1929 and early 30’s) as what in modern terms would be called a ‘poverty relief programme’. Wages were minimal and the bulk of the work was done by hand with the aid of mules. The wall was raised in the 1980’s and the surface area of the dam now extends over approximately 200Ha. The reserve was established to protect the dam. This in turn became a Nature Reserve and is now home to a variety of plants, birds and game in what is known as a ‘bankenveld’ biome. This reserve covers approx 4,000Ha and is the largest falling within the bounds of a municipal area.

Facilities and activities Day visits, hikes, horse rides, night drives, day tours, training facilities, lapas, lion camp

and environmental education are available within the reserve. Best game viewing times are early mornings and late afternoons during the week. There is a picnic/braai area at the Marais Dam. A great way to spend time with family/friends/guests. The above can be arranged at the main gate (near ‘The Cradle’) off the M57 which runs past St George’s. Google ‘Rietvlei’ for more info.

Friends of Rietvlei In the 1990’s there was a plan to establish a golf estate within the reserve and this could well have gone through had it not been for the efforts of Madelaine Buffler, a neighbouring resident. Shortly thereafter ‘The Fiends of Rietvlei’ (FoR) group was established to protect and contribute towards the welfare of the reserve. This group is still active in the reserve and embarks on projects for the benefit of the reserve. There has been recent talk of 70Ha in Groenkloof Reserve, near Fountains Circle, being sold off for development – possibly the thin end of the wedge. A strong ‘Friends’ group could well prevent a similar occurrence in Rietvlei. FoR meet on the third Saturday of each month at the Main Gate at 08h00. This worthwhile organisation has fun while performing a beneficial role and would welcome your support. Go to www.friendsofrietvlei.org. FoR was established by Irene residents.

Dam activities 1. Fishing/camping/chalets/mountain biking are controlled by Nature Conservation. Facilities are well maintained and ideal for a ‘mini-break’ for a night, weekend or a few days.

Mountain biking is not too challenging.

Entrance is on Dam Road (extension of Nellmapius road on the other side of R21), linking the M57 (Boeing/ Goedehoop road) and R50 (Delmas road). Google ‘Rietvlei’ for more info.

23 2.

Pretoria Sailing Club (PSC) and Centurion Canoe Club (CCC). These two clubs share a clubhouse and facilities overlooking the Rietvlei Dam. Juniors and adults are welcomed at both clubs and both sports are suited to recreational as well as competitive participation. Both clubs offer training for new-comers. Canoeing provides ideal aerobic exercise with very low injury risk and competent paddlers can progress to the more exciting river events as well as flat water racing. Schools in KZN and the Cape are involved in all forms of canoeing and thus have taken the lead.

Johannesburg schools are now following suit. Why not Tshwane? Development paddlers in Johannesburg have made rapid progress and are now proving themselves at interprovincial level. South African canoeists, including Tshwane’s own Bridgette Hartley, are up with the best in the world. Members of PSC and CCC automatically qualify as members of Friends of Rietvlei.

Pretoria Sailing Club: www.PSC.org, 082 488 9900 Centurion Canoe Club: Facebook Centurion Canoe Club, 072 100 6048 Rietvlei has much to offer in many respects.

Not only is it a jewel – it is a jewel with many facets. Do yourself, and those close to you, a favour by taking advantage of what Rietvlei has to offer. Initial permission to canoe at Rietvlei was obtained by Irene residents on behalf of CCC.

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

24

PUTTING

the record straight SMUTS HOUSE MUSUEM

S

muts House Museum in Irene is an NPO (Non-profit organisation) run by the Board of Directors of the General Smuts Foundation (GSF), none of whom receives remuneration for their volunteer services. The Museum and surrounding property, including the biologically unique Smuts koppie, is owned by the General Smuts Foundation and does not receive any Government subsidies.

The Foundation is run entirely on earnings received from, for example, Museum entrance fees, Ouma’s tea garden, the caravan park, trails and other events including those run by the Friends of the Smuts House Museum. The twice monthly Irene Village Market (IVM) was a very successful income-earner for the GSF. This market has now moved to a new site and the Smuts House Museum would like to inform its supporters that the muchappreciated Craft Market will continue to be hosted at the Smuts House Museum venue every second and last Saturday of each month. All the exciting food, craft and other stalls will still be there. To book a stall, please contact Ester: 072 733 7930.

The GSF has derived immense benefit from the IVM over the last 27 years, but there has been an impact on the environment particularly on the grass cover and in the parking areas.

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

The Board of Directors of the General Smuts Foundation would like to take this opportunity to explain why the IVM is not using the Smuts House Museum grounds any longer: The contract to run the IVM was due for renewal in February 2016. Negotiations about the renewal of the contract only took place on 5 February 2016 as the organiser of the IVM was away in the Cape for over 2 months and was not able to attend a meeting.

The organiser of the IVM, whilst running a very profitable business, never provided any additional facilities to the Smuts property such as toilets which were required for the 1000’s of visitors to the site at any one time.

Objections were expressed by the IVM organiser on initiatives that the GSF promulgated, such as the Wednesday Organic Market and a Sunday Art Market, despite the fact that the contract with the IVM only gave them full use of the grounds for 2 Saturdays per month.

The GSF drew up a list of amendments for renewal of the contract as 3 particular clauses were restrictive and impacted negatively on the ability of the GSF to arrange any new fundraising or incomegenerating events.

The two main points of conflict were a

25 clause under which the GSF could not host any event which the IVM considered to be in conflict with its market and the percentage of Stall Fees to be paid by IVM to GSF for the use of the grounds. Despite discussion, the Minutes of the Meeting supplied by the IVM themselves showed that no agreement could be reached. The Contract was therefore not renewed (it was not cancelled as alleged by IVM, but not renewed due to inability to agree terms) thus the use of the Smuts House Museum grounds for the IVM terminated with the last market on 9 April 2016.

It was the end of an era, but the General Smuts Foundation is confident that the future, without the restrictions imposed upon the organisation by the IVM, will be truly beneficial to the lasting memory of a very great South African: Jan Christian Smuts.

The Management of Smuts House Museum has now undertaken to run the market, which is to be known as Market @ Smuts House and will be held on the second and last Saturday of each month. Please support this initiative.

Arts & Farmers Market trading as

Market @ Smuts House Market Dates for 2016 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

25th June 9th July 30th July 13th August 27th August 10th September 24th September 8th October 29th October 05th November 12th November 19th November 26th November 3rd December (Christmas Market) 10th December (Christmas Market) 17th December (Christmas Market)

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

26

SMALL

Businesses

For advertising in the small business section please email info@tlgpublishing.co.za.

•

•

•

•

•

Rock/Stone walls: Americo Mungue builds beautiful rock walls in Irene. He also builds plant boxes, retaining walls and any other rock work you want done.

Please call Americo on 071 942 7823 to quote. References in Irene available.

Snake removal: Professional, safe snake removal. Snakes are relocated to Rietvlei Nature Reserve. Contact Wickus on 072 476 7554. Please keep this number.

Kate Wikner School of Dance: offering ballet classes from Tiny tots up to Adult level in R.A.D. Also open Contemporary classes for those who are keen. Irene Village Hall, Pioneer str.

Phone Kate 071 471 4675 or email katewikner@gmail.com.

Conquer English: Personal English Tuition from TEFL/TESOL qualified teacher - Foundation to Advanced levels; IELTS exam preparation; Improve your grammar, reading, writing, speaking and listening skills; Individual or small group tuition; Secondary school and adults; Business English. Flexible times to suit your needs. We travel to you if required. For more information contact Marion +27 82 805 2798.

Security/Steelwork: Welding and repair work of steel fencing, burglar bars, security gates and motorised gates and intercom systems.

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

•

•

•

•

Guaranteed professional work. Phone Koos Sutherland 082 374 7164.

Ann Campbell (ARAD - Teach Dip) School of Dance: offering Pilates and Body Conditioning, Ballet – especially for the younger child at home studio and Irene Homes Hall, Ballroom and Latin American – social group classes, private lessons and wedding dances.

Phone Ann 012 667 5187/083 316 7842 or email ann@netcampbell.com.

LP Gas: Cannisters delivered to your home. 9kg, 19kg, 48kg.

Phone Colin 082 856 5335/ Vernon 083 666 6212/e-mail orders colin.cns@gmail.com.

Stone walls, brickwork and paving: I have worked in Irene for 28 years and am an expert in building stone walls, and laying both brick and slate paving.

I also do brickwork and plastering. I can handle the entire job, from advising on material purchases to building rubble removal. Please call me, Bethuel Manyama, on 084 457 8682 or 071 497 4008 for a quotation and the names of people for whom I have done work.

Sprigs & Sprays: If you need a bowl of flowers for a dinner party or are celebrating a small occasion, Daphne would love to assist. Call Daphne 083 675 7310.

27 •

• •

•

• •

•

Dental Care. Smiles4All Dental Studio, general dentistry. Highveld Shopping Centre. Call : 012 6651631/5 or 082 443 1008. Email: smilesforall@iafrica. com. Website: www.smilesforall.co.za.

Extra Maths Lessons in Irene: Grade 7 to 9. R200 per hour. Call Justine 082 355 1545.

Certified Body Talk Practioner: Body Talk is a natural health care system, which is designed to work with and support, your body’s own natural ability to heal itself. Contact Eleanor 082 812 7606, www.bodytalkhealth. co.za or email eleanor@live.co.za.

Paving: I am John Banda and I do very good paving. I have learnt my skills from a paving company so I can do all kinds of patterns.

Now I am working on my own. I have done paving in Irene so I have good references. Please call me at 078 039 5197.

Bee removal: Contact Anton 073 527 9666.

Professional organiser: I will assist you with organising your home. Let me help declutter and take your unwanted items to charities. I can also project manage a renovation then clean up and pack the house back for you to move back into. References available.

Contact Coleen 072 618 3180 or 012 665 0716.

Firewood special while stocks

•

•

•

•

last. R750 small bakkie load and R1 200 for a double load. For cold spells, braais, weddings and other functions plus power outages. Contact Oscar on 078 389 9632.

Smart Labels: For iron-on (clothing) and peel & stick (stationery, books etc) labels. R130/100 labels. Contact Maureen 082 787 8300 or email peebs@worldonline.co.za for more information and orders.

Extra Maths lessons for Gr 8 to 12 in Irene: Lessons are one-onone in English or Afrikaans and can be arranged as needed. Lessons are given by a qualified Maths teacher with a Honours degree in Mathematics.

Contact Sigrid on 082 253 5079.

Irene School of T’ai Chi Chi’uan: Holistic Internal Martial Art incorporating deep breathing, slow rhythmic movement brining balance and harmony, peace and tranquillity.

Self defence martial applications. Often described as a moving meditation.

Please contact Ainslie at 012 667 2262 or 082 568 0467.

Painter: My name is Quinton, I’m a professional painter with references, able to do all types of handy work and garden work too, lives in Irene. I’m a 35 year old white male with equipment.

Tel: 071 408 3170. Able to work every day of the week except Saturday, will work on Sundays.

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

28

SMALL Cries

Accommodation • Large one bedroom garden flat. Own entrance and undercover parking for two cars. No children or pets. Rent R5 000 pm plus one month deposit. Available 1 August 2016. Contact Eric 082 461 1912.

• Garden cottage in Irene to rent from 1 May 2016. 2 Bedrooms, living room, private entrance, parking. R5 300 per month including electricity and water.

Contact Daleen at 083 386 8281.

• To rent: Self-contained flat in Irene. 2 Bedrooms 1 bathroom and additional toilet. Very large open plan living area.

Kitchen with granite tops. R6 500.00 per month including water but not electricity.

Contact Sharon 071 880 7007.

• 3 bedroom house in Irene to let. 2 Garages, 2 bath, 1 en-suite, large garden, large kitchen, separate dining room, lounge. Availability - 1 June 2016.

Monthly rental – upon request. Contact Petra 082 453 6133.

• Flatlet to let. Fully furnished. Suitable for single gentleman. Under net parking. R3 600 pm w/l included. Available 1 June. Contact Louis 012 667 5033 or 072 558 4349.

Domestics • Mercy (074 064 5400) is looking for domestic work Monday, Thursday and Saturday. She is a hard worker and very reliable, has domestic work experience and has a very pleasant personality.

References are available.

• Juster is looking for work on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. She is currently working for me in Irene and I can unhesitatingly recommend her as someone who is hard working and trustworthy. Please call 063 522 1214.

• Christina has been working for the Zaayman family for many years as a live in domestic. She served the family very well, is reliable honest and good with animals. Since the passing of Mr Zaayman and the sale of the house, she is now available to join another family in Irene with live in accommodation. Please contact Christo 082 451 1807.

• Tracy Chomudondo has worked for me for over two years. She is looking for domestic work on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Tracy is reliable, honest, hard working and friendly. Her work is of

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

•

•

•

• •

•

a high standard and thorough. She lives near Irene. Please call Tracy on 073 242 4204/074 825 5848 or Eleanor Kent on 082 812 7606 for a reference.

Regina is looking for a live-in position or piece work in Irene. She is 41years old and single, is honest and very caring.

Regina is available Mon to Fri. She works for me every other Thur. Please call Alyson on 072 714 3740.

My name is Esther, I am looking for a room in Irene and work for Tuesdays.

I am currently employed for 4 of the 5 weekdays. I am honest and reliable. My cell number is 072 444 6875. You can phone Heila at 012 667 4972 for a reference.

Florah is an exceptional and very experienced domestic worker with an excellent command of English, a wonderfully loyal and genial attitude and impeccably high standards, she is meticulous, energetic, dedicated and enthusiastic about delivering the best level of service. She is also a very responsible and caring child minder, and will competently look after your cats and dogs. She is available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and comes with the strongest references. Please call Gwen for references 079 511 1331 or Florah directly 072 207 6061.

Queeneth (083 946 6883) is available on alternate Tuesday’s for domestic work in Irene.Please call Hilary for a reference (084 401 2165).

Paulina Thomas: Hands down the most fabulous employee to have in your home!

Due to my family moving abroad and having secured three days work, Paulina is looking for two days work per week. Paulina has a lovely disposition which is backed up by a sound work ethic and self-starting attitude.

She has efficiently and effectively managed my home for 7 years and I am heartbroken to have to leave her behind. If you need a reliable and conscientious help, please call me, Heather, on 083 498 8777.

Andrew and Immaculate Kwanjana have been working with me for some time and are recommended for any peace work or full time arrangement in addition to the occasional days they work for me as well as another Irene resident. Andrew is an experienced gardener and handyman and Immaculate has all the capabilities to do the domestic work required in a home. They do not need to be paired but it does have its advantages. Andrew can be

contacted on 078 797 4753 and Immaculate 078 259 6886. For reference you can contact me (Klaus) on 082 801 2667.

For sale • For sale - 1 Baby Bumbo Seat (orange) R150. 1 Madela Mini Electric Breast Pump (almost brand new) R1 000.

Please email: mariaanscott@yahoo.co.uk if you are interested.

Gardeners • Joseph (078 518 1959) is looking for gardening work in and around Irene for Wednesdays and Saturdays. He is neat, trustworthy and hardworking.

• Edwin is looking for gardening work and is available on Thursdays. He is a Malawian with valid work visa and a SADC driver’s licence. He has been working in Irene for 8 years and is hardworking, reliable and trustworthy.

Good references available from Irene residents. Call Edwin on 074 724 1329.

• Our trusted gardener of several years has a busy schedule working in Irene, he is looking for a gardening position for Mondays' as we have down scaled.

Boston has a bicycle and is punctual, hard working, understands English fairly well and works very quickly. Boston also has a carpentry background and has assisted

•

• •

•

29

me in repairing wooden items from time to time around our property. Contact Boston Mwandira: 078 939 8616/074 098 1165.

Reference Peter Harrison: 082 903 8520.

Benson is looking for regular work or piece work as a gardener and general assistant. He has been in my employ for over a year and is honest, willing, versatile and extremely hardworking.

Please phone 082 483 7532.

Mphatso Madi is a Malawian gardener looking for part-time or full-time employment.

Please phone Mphatso 073 838 9172.

Lazarus is a 30 year old Malawian gardener with a valid passport and working permit.

He is friendly, diligent, respectful, honest and hardworking. Other skills include: painting, cleaning and repairing swimming pools. He is available on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays Call Lazarus on 063 063 5224. For references – Piter: 083 273 1910 or Christo: 083 789 5123.

General • Looking for a home “Beasley”, a Vizsla (Hungarian Pointer). Male, 9 yrs old and neutered. Call Barbara: 082 857 1905.

• House sitter: Irene resident, sleep in (optional), feed pets, organise domestics.

References available. Rates negotiable.

Contact Gregg 079 703 3178.

082 622 9001

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

30

IMPORTANT

Numbers

EBS 24hrs Control Room:

tel:

012 667 6337 / 071 576 5904

EBS Irene Manager (Dawie):

cell:

074 939 8134

ILA members without alarms should phone the EBS 24hr Control Room for assistance.

ILA Irene Village Manager

Jan Swanepoel cell: 083 607 6600 e-mail: jan.swanepoel@irene.co.za

ILA ADMINISTRATION ILA Manager Accounts

STREET LIGHTS

Alyson: e-mail: Veronica: fax: e-mail:

072 714 3740 ilamanager@irene.co.za 071 657 9547 086 776 7452 accounts@irene.co.za

e-mail: tel

streetlights@tshwane.gov.za 012 358 9999

TSHWANE METRO EMERGENCY SERVICES Power Failures: Water Supply: Ambulance/Fire: Metro Police:

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016

tel: tel: tel: tel:

012 358 2541 012 358 2111 10177 10111

31

TO ADVERTISE IN

THE TOWN CRIER PLEASE CONTACT TRACEY ON

082 460 6007

June Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

32

Irene Town Crier | June Issue 2016