THE NEWSPAPER
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stories that are life changing
January 2015
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KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH A RACING START
ORGANIC FOOD Page 7
TRAVEL Page 10 J&B Met™ 2014 winning horse "Hill Fifty Four" with Jockey A Marcus taking the lead to the finish line - Photo Credit J&B Met™
Summer is the most spectacular season in Cape Town and the Western Cape with perfect temperatures provides an endless array of things to do by day and night. It is also a key time for events – both cultural and sporting, making it an ideal time to plan a trip to the Western Cape as participant or as a spectator. “Cape Town’s line-up of events has increasingly become a major drawcard for international visitors,” says Cape Town Tourism CEO, Enver Duminy, “Cycling events like the Cape Town Cycle Tour (previously known as the Cape Argus) and the ABSA Cape Epic are on the hot-list for serious and adventure riders, runners flock to the breathtakingly beautiful Old Mutual Two Oceans Ultra and Half Marathon – and the city is on show with jazz, carnivals and parades in full swing.”
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Sales at Sitari Country Estate Exceed Expectations
No expense has been spared at The Grand Olive, the very first and flagship apartment complex to be released within Sitari Country Estate, the huge new rural suburb coming to the greater Somerset West area. Set on 192 hectares between the N2 and R102, neighbouring Croydon Olive and Vineyard Estates, this is one of the last private access-controlled estates that will be built within the Western Cape. It is 10 km from Somerset West, 20 km from Stellenbosch, 35 km from Cape Town Northern Suburbs and 39 km from Cape Town CBD.
LEISURE Page 11
The Grand Olive is indicative of the exclusivity of the estate as whole, and its extra-spacious designer apartments feature top of the range imported finishes, including ovens by Miele, large matte-finished porcelain tiles, engineered stone countertops and vanities, Berber 100% wool carpeted bedrooms or water-resistant vinyl flooring, down lights in living and dining areas, large walk-in showers, wallhung toilets, and Grohe taps throughout. Exceptional capital growth is anticipated, as The Grand Olive forms part of phase 1, with prices set to increase as phase 2 is released. Those in the know have identified this early on – with the result that 50% of the 69 apartments in The Grand Olive have already been sold. Says John Coetzee, one of the Executive Directors of Uvest, who are developing Sitari Country Estate: “We are selling properties on the estate at a current average rate of one property per day.
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CONSERVATION Page 13
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THE NEWS
THE NEWSPAPER
KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH A RACING START
OUR INFORMATION
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Proteas versus West Indies - Cricket The 3rd Sunfoil Test will take place from 2-6 January 2015 and the 1st KFC T20 international will take place on 9 January at Newlands, Cape Town. L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate The L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate will take place on 10 January 2015 at Kenilworth Racecourse, where race-goers, will look on as the country’s top thoroughbreds pound the turf in pursuit of the R1 million purse.
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J&B™ Met
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On 31 January 2015, South Africa’s oldest horserace, the 2015 J&B™ Met, takes place at Kenilworth Racecourse in the always-picturesque setting of Cape Town.
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Cape Town Cycle Tour The Cape Town Cycle Tour will take place on 8 March 2015 from Cape Town CBD and end in Green Point. One of the largest sporting events in the world and offers a 109km route that takes you along a spectacular scenic circle around Cape Town, displaying significant mountain and ocean views. Cape Town Carnival The funwalk takes place in Greenpoint on 14 March 2015. The Cape Town Carnival is a glamorous celebration presenting a colourful parade of large scale floats accompanied by over 2000 costumed dancers, musicians and performers. Infecting the City
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The 8th annual Infecting the City public arts festival in Cape Town CBD takes place 9-14 March 2015 and brings new artworks out of theatres and galleries and into public spaces.
Tel: 011 - 484 - 3612/8 Fax: 011 - 484 -3619
Absa Cape Epic The Absa Cape Epic, an annual mountain bike stage race for elite professional mountain bikers covering more than 700 km and lasting eight days - a prologue and seven stages takes place from 15-22 March 2015 from Durbanville to Stellenbosch. Cape Town Jazz Festival The Cape Town Jazz Festival will be held from 27 & 28 March 2015 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Affectionately referred to as “Africa’s Grandest Gathering” - is largest music event in sub-Saharan Africa. Old Mutual Two Oceans Ultra and Half Marathon The world’s most beautiful marathon takes place 3-4 April 2015 in Cape Town. This 21km and 56km road race follows a scenic route all along the ocean and mountains for which Cape Town is so famous. Discovery World Triathlon Cape Town The ITU World Triathlon Series is the pinnacle of the sport and takes place in the best locations in the most iconic cities in the world – including the Mother City. The event will take place on 25-26 April 2015 in the V&A Waterfront. It also has the largest and world’s best age-group events – for sprint and standard distance. For more information on events taking place in 2015, visit our website www.thenewspaper.co.za for daily updates
Hospitality stars shine bright at World Luxury Hotel Awards The eighth annual World Luxury Hotel Awards was celebrated first time in six years on South African shores. Local and international award winning hospitality super stars shone bright at the gala dinner ceremony hosted at the Bay Hotel’s majestic Rotunda in Camps Bay, Cape Town. The World Luxury Hotel Awards, positioned as the pinnacle of achievement for luxury hotels worldwide, offers hoteliers a unique opportunity to celebrate their achievements over the past year. Established in 2006 the event recognizes worldwide luxury and service excellence in the hotel industry. Over 1,000 hotels from 145 countries were nominated to participate in the world’s most prestigious Awards initiative for luxury hotels in 2014. The Awards account for over 50 categories in the luxury hotel industry and include amongst others Luxury Private Island Resorts, Casino Hotels, City Hotels, and Lodges. Voted by International tour operators, travel agents, hotel guests get the opportunity to cast their valuable votes annually, ensuring the process is fair and unbiased.
Photo Credit: Julia Janse Van Vuuren Photography
Gracing the red carpet at this year’s gala event were well-known SA celebrities Ryk Neethling, Natalie Becker, Katlego Maboe, Roxy Louw and Derek Watts, to name a few, alongside leading hoteliers from around the globe who gathered in anticipation of acceptance of this coveted awards.
Award winners have raised the bar of service delivery since inception, rising in recognition to become some of the world’s leading hotels. Annual competitors to receive top honours include Swissôtel, InterContinental, Hilton, Kempinski, Anantara and Mövenpick to name a few. Leading partners to the 2014 Gala Ceremony included France 24, also awarded the global hotel of the year.
Performances by TheMarilynZ, Shen FM and Fusion Entertainment kept the audience in tune, and tapping away between the much anticipated prize giving conducted by MC Bruce Taljaard with a key note address by honourable guest speaker Derek Watts.
Atlantis the Palm, United Arab Emirates, was announced the 2014 World Luxury Hotel Awards Global Hotel of the year winner and the award was presented to Clive Bennet, representative of the Atlantis The Palm and Managing Director at the One & Only, Cape Town. Congratulations!
THE NEWSPAPER
THE NEWS
Holden Manz Wine Estate scoops up more awards! Holden Manz Visionaire 2012 Blend came out tops at the SA Top 100 Awards, winning a highly acclaimed accolade in the Other Red Blends category earlier this year. The Visionare 2012 Blend is a combination of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot,10% Shiraz, with a 20% blend of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. It reflects a dark centre that follows right through to the edges of the glass, and on the nose an upfront Dark Fruit, Plums, Chocolates, backed by some well-integrated oak flavours which follows through with elegant raspberry and redcurrant flavours backed by some spice from the Shiraz.
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Take a trip with MyCiTi Bus The sales of the MyCiTi single trip tickets have exceeded all expectations since the roll-out on 18 October 2014. A total of 1 186 single trip tickets have been sold within the first two weeks of the launch of this product on 18 October 2014. Furthermore, another 1 875 tickets have been sold at our MyCiTi station kiosks and at the kiosk at the Cape Town International Airport during November 2014. The single trip card is ideal for visitors or residents who do not have a myconnect card and only want to make use of the MyCiTi bus service once to travel from point-A to point-B. A single trip card costs R30 and cards for journeys connecting with the airport cost R75 each. The cards are on sale at the kiosks at the MyCiTi stations across the city.
The pallet has an expressive, medium to full-bodied mouth feel with good structure but with a classy elegance to it. Tannins are soft but slightly grainy on the mid pallet making it a great food wine. The Visionare 2012 Blend has been matured in 20% New French 225L oak barrels and 80% second and third fill barrels for about 23 months before blended and bottled. It is a ready to drink wine. Notwithstanding, it will benefit from a further few years bottle aging, and is expected to last 10 years and longer. Following its success in the market since its release, Holden Manz is proud to announce that the new addition to the family has been praised yet again, achieving 3 silver medals from IWSC, Veritas and the Old Mutual Trophy Show! Holden Manz flagship Bordeaux blend, The Big G has also achieved 4 stars in the Platter’s wine guide recently to add to its collection of accolades too! For more information on Holden Manz wine visit www.holdenmanz.com
Sales at Sitari Country Estate Exceed Expectations (Continue from page 1)
The Grand Olive was 50% sold out just 80 days after release, which exceeded expectations. There is currently strong rental demand throughout the Western Cape, which is ideal for buy-to-let investors. Sitari allows for a good mix between rental return and capital growth, making for a well-balanced investment. High rental yields are expected at The Grand Olive, of no less than 9% gross. The two-bedroom apartments are proving to be an excellent buy-to-let option, at an expected rental of R8500 per month. Of the buyers in The Grand Olive, about 70% people are planning to live there, while 30% see it as a good addition to their rental portfolios.” Adds Martin van Rooyen, Sales Manager at Sitari Property Sales: “Everything about Sitari is above and beyond any norm. The two-bedroom apartments (83m2) at The Grand Olive are the size of typical three-bedroom apartments – while the three-bedroom apartments (122m2) are the size of entry-level townhouses in typical new development builds. All of the ground floor apartments have private exclusive use gardens with low boundary walls and gates to external estate pathways. The design and construction of the covered parking bays has also been carefully considered to ensure a premium appearance.”
Single trip cards are valid for one journey, including transfers at stops and stations. Users can benefit from such a free transfer if they tap out when they leave the station or exit a bus at a roadside stop and tap in again at any MyCiTi bus or station within 45 minutes to resume their journey, provided that less than two-and-a-half hours have passed since they first tapped in. Those making a return journey using such a card will have to buy two single trip cards. The single trip card is valid for one year from the date of purchase. The MyCiTi Table Mountain service (Route 110) was introduced to provide a high quality public transport service to Table Mountain and the surrounding area, as well as to improve public access to this great tourist attraction. This service is not aimed at tourists only; it also makes it easier for local residents to visit Table Mountain. Visitors to Table Mountain should take the MyCiTi buses to Camps Bay (Route 106 or Route 107) to the top of Kloof Nek Road, where they should alight at the Kloof Nek stop. From there, visitors should walk over to the MyCiTi stop next to the Kloof Nek parking area and take the Table Mountain service (Route 110) to the Lower Cableway station. On their way back passengers should board at the Lower Cableway station, alight at Kloof Nek and transfer to MyCiTi Route 106 or Route 107. Passengers needing to cross Kloof Nek Road can now do so more safely by using the signalised pedestrian crossing. While travelling by bus to Kloof Nek is the most convenient way, people who are travelling by car can avoid the frustration of the traffic congestion around the Lower Cableway station by parking at the Kloof Nek parking area and taking the MyCiTi bus from there to the Cableway station. Visitors should please note that myconnect cards are not sold at the Kloof Nek stop, but at the Lower Cableway station.
Franschhoek, Paarl and Wellington Sitari Country Estate's design and urban concept is broadly based on that of the ever popular Schonenberg Estate (where erven now sell for over R2000/m2) - the difference being that 36% of Sitari will be allocated towards the re-creation of a 22 hectare natural wetland (which on its own is half the size of the entire Schonenberg Estate), numerous parks, 40 m wide green corridors and over 14 500 trees. The independent school brand Curro is set to open its doors to pupils (from 3 months up to 18 years) from January 2016. The fact that there will be a Curro school (in addition to a lifestyle shopping centre) will greatly add to the popularity of Sitari Country Estate and ultimately drive up property demand and prices. Construction of the main gatehouse at Sitari Country Estate will start in March 2015, with expected transfer of first phase erven in June 2015, and of the first batch of completed Village Homes and apartments in The Grand Olive in late 2015. Contact Sitari Property Sales Martin van Rooyen on 083 452 6909 or Office 087 890 0033 or view www.sitari.co.za
Gordons Bay, Strand and Somerset West Stellenbosch Johannesburg North West +27 (0) 86 172 5824 Update.salt@gmail.com
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THE NEWS
THE NEWSPAPER
Klein Karoo Gourmand Awards New App to promote discovery The third annual Klein Karoo Gourmand Awards of the Top 10 Restaurants for 2014 took place at the Bello Cibo Italian Restaurant in Oudtshoorn on 12 December 2014. At the steer of proceedings was Francois Ferreira, president of the South African Chaîne de Rôtisseurs, and Anne Hadley, a food critic.
of Western Cape Winelands Cape Town based consumer engagement agency, iKineo have launched Sideways, an interactive new app which aims to maximise the experience of tourists visiting the Winelands of the Western Cape. According to Marthinus Botha from iKineo, Sideways is a free app that offers a powerful, sophisticated search engine, offering the end user the perfect guide to the winelands of the Western Cape: “You can search by keywords, region and filters and whether you are looking for a wine farm with a fireplace for winter warmth or a family-friendly, awardwinning restaurant in a specific area, the app will give you exactly what you need,” says Botha. Each wine farm’s profile page in the app, brims with useful information, everything from opening times, to available wines and even GPS co-ordinates that seamlessly links to your smart phone’s own navigation software. Another function that sets the app apart is its updated and themed curated lists, boasting fun line ups and must see activities compiled by experts, celebrities and people in-the know. “Not only can users feed off curated lists, but they can also create their own favourite experience by adding their most liked wine farms, adventure activities, meals and estates to personal lists, making it easy to relive or share their good times with others,” he says.
Top Ten: Front from Left to Right is Anne Hadley (Co-Founder of the Awards), Mizé van Rooyen (Porto Deli), Leonardo Minnaar (The Hillock), David Hyman (Chairman of the Outeniqua-region Chaîne des Rotisseurs), Gerard Mare (Rambling Rose), Fida Hess (Mimosa Lodge), Mike Clarke (Clarke of the Karoo). Back Left to Right is Niekie Eksteen (The Village Trading Post), Alie Killian & Rickus Engelbrecht (The Colony), Frikkie Vermeulen & Hugo Nel (Su Casa), Bernard Hess (Mimosa Lodge), Deon van Rooyen (Port Deli), Soan Jacobs (The Village Trading Post) & Francois Ferreira (Co-Founder of the Awards). Photo Credit: Schalk le Roux, Die Hoorn
Restaurants in the Klein Karoo were judged by ghost-diners visiting restaurants unannounced, who paid for their meals while performing an independent dining evaluation. Various Restaurants within the Klein Karoo region were nominated as the top 20 restaurants with eight Restaurants, The Black Swan, Café Brûlé, The Colony, Bello Cibo, Su Casa, Karusa, Buffelsdrift and Smitswinkel form Oudtshoorn; three restaurants, Cafe Photo Albert, Swartberg Arms Steakhouse and Prince Albert Country Store from Prins Albert; three restaurants, Diesel & Crème, Clarke of the Karoo and the Barrydale Karoo Hotel from Barrydale, two restaurants, Mimosa Lodge and the Rambling Rose from Montagu, Porta Deli in Calitzdorp; Village Trading Post in De Rust, and The Hillock at Mymering Guest Farm in Ladismith. Only nine top restaurants were crowned prize winners and received Chaîne des Rotisseurs top restaurants awards sponsored by the Outeniqua region of the Chaîne des Rotisseurs. The top 10 of 2014 winners are Mimosa Lodge, Rambling Rose, Clarke of the Karoo, The Hillock, Porto Deli, The Colony, Su Casa, The Village Trading Post. According to Francios Ferreira the winning recipe by these winning restaurants is based on their dedication in providing quality dishes recommendable to all, while giving attention to service and atmosphere. The event was sponsored by Hartman & Sons, with ‘Die Hoorn’ as media partner.
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Judy Lain, Chief Marketing Officer for Wesgro, the Western Cape’s official Tourism Trade and Investment Promotion agency believes that the app will allow visitors to discover the Cape Winelands with ease. “The app is not only designed to discover wine farms and restaurants. It gives tourists information needed to discover adventure activities like running or cycling trails or the best picnic or sundowner spots,” she says. A big draw card for the end user is the Sideways rewards system whereby visitors can check in with their smart phone at specific wine farms. They will then accumulate points which will unlock rewards like meal discounts, free wine tastings and more. The app is currently available for download on iPhone devices from the app Store and will be available on Google Play for Android devices in early 2015.
Film Industry Stimulate Local Economy The Cape Town bug bit the cast and crew of ‘Homeland’. Filming of season four of this popular television series was recently completed in the Mother City and it is hoped that Cape Town will once again be home to season five. The city remains a firm favourite for the film industry with more than 6 700 permits being issued since the beginning of the 2014 for a range of feature films, television productions and photo shoots, among other categories. A total of 10 309 bookings have been made since January 2014, with 6 741 permits being issued for various shoots. The bulk of the permits were issued for micro shoots (2 596), followed by commercials (1 656) and stills photography (1 413). A number of local and international movies and series are on the cards, including ‘Stone Cold Jane Austen’, ‘Eye in the Sky’ and ‘The Curse of Hendon’ – all from the USA; ‘Fear Factor’ India; and ‘Endless River’, ‘Ace Hunter’ and ‘Submarine’, which are local productions. The streets of Cape Town are also popular for car commercials, with the most recent being shoots for Volkswagen and Toyota. Currently, commercials for Opel, Renault, BMW and Kia are being shot around the city, as well as numerous magazine and fashion photo-shoots taking place mainly for the northern hemisphere summer ranges. The local film industry contributes approximately R5 billion to the economy and has over the past three years created more than 35 000 jobs. It is a labour intensive industry and therefore has a long value chain.
The film production sector also adds value to a wide range of other sectors in the local economy through the creation of demand for products and services. The industry showcases Cape Town, its diversity of locations, technical film capacity and talent, and also provides value-added marketing and investment collateral for the city. Cape Town’s downtown streets are commonly used as production locations because they work as many different cities in the world, while iconic buildings are always in demand as they have character. The iconic Artscape Theatre was turned into the American embassy for the series ‘Homeland’. One of the most popular sites has been the cut-off freeway on the foreshore, which is the biggest unintended boon to the film industry. The City’s competitive film tariffs and user charges for filming ensure that Cape Town remains an attractive option in terms of production costs. The tariff structure acts as an incentive and in so doing helps to stimulate the local economy through generating increased opportunities for both local and international production companies. A host of subsidiary industries and sectors that support film-making in the city also stand to benefit.
THE NEWSPAPER
INSPIRATIONAL
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Touching the heart of children The Newspaper recently met Nicci Venter, a 24 year old with a big passion to give back to the community. In 2012, Nicci was working as a marketing and events coordinator at a small shopping village in the Northern Suburbs as her first job, and with this title it gave her the chance to seek new marketing opportunities for the shopping village, and also incorporate her passion. The first opportunity to plan something on own initiative, she called up the Durbanville Police station and shared her ideas and vision with them. She met Daphne from their team and from the start Daphne told her, “Nicci, we will make this work.” This was the start to the planning of the first 16 Days of Activism against woman and child campaign.
To Nicci this journey was amazing from sourcing all the sponsors for the shoeboxes, driving around collecting boxes and then, on the morning, getting into the back of a police van, driving through the township with sirens announcing her arrival, she acted as mother Christmas to these beautiful children.
During this period Nicci hosted a 5km walk in aid of abuse against woman and children, with ladies self-defence classes, and for the children bully proof classes with Gracie Jiu Jitsu, followed by Christmas markets, Baby and Kiddie markets, drug abuse awareness seminars, and even Christmas shoebox gifts to a local crèche and old age home in Fisantekraal. Nicci was overwhelmed by the support from sponsors. She packed almost a 1000 goody bags herself, and was the master of ceremonies at these events - definitely her biggest accomplishment, and something she is very proud of.
Nicci’s ultimate goal is to walk a path with these children for the rest of their lives. “I have to mention what amazing work Monica, the owner of the crèche and her dynamic team is doing for these kids. These children are probably the most mannered and lovable kids that I have ever come across - from saying thank you, to sitting still with their shoeboxes until they are told they may open it, to giving hugs and singing Christmas carols.” “I am amazed every year on how these caretakers touch the lives of these children coming from bad situations and houses with no parents, or parents not fit as an example. I am completely blessed, especially being part in something so special. I will not stop blessing those who have touched my life,” says Nicci. For more information call Nicci on 076 883 3809 At the beginning of 2013 she was informed that her department will be closing down, and no further marketing and events will be required. At the age of 22 years Nicci found herself retrenched, but decided even though she has neither brand, nor any corporate company supporting her, her dream to support the community will not come to an end. “No matter what happens, I will make the Christmas boxes work in the best possible way, and to the best of my ability,” Nicci says. She thereafter provided Christmas boxes to young children at a crèche who had impacted her lifestyle in so many ways. Christmas 2014 marked her 3rd consecutive year in organizing Christmas shoeboxes at the “Drie Beertjies” Crèche in Fisantekraal, which she claims an amazing experience. Not only did Nicci have the support of the Adlab team this year, The Newspaper noted the response of these young children overwhelmed with joy as they received their Christmas shoeboxes. With tears of joy Nicci witnessed the joyful hearts of these children unpacking their boxes and waving their gifts before her.
How can you help? The City of Cape Town would like to issue an appeal to the public to refrain from giving hand-outs to people begging on the streets. In recent years they have noticed an increase in the number of beggars migrating to town centres and other high traffic areas over the holiday season. The City of Cape Town wish to reintegrate people who find themselves on the street by offering services and assistance to get them back on their feet in partnership with the private sector and non-governmental organisations. During the 2013/14 financial year, they assisted 1 325 street people in getting off the streets and accessing health and other services. Not all of the individuals who beg at intersections and outside shopping malls are street people – some are known as day strollers and leave their homes specifically to collect hand-outs and then return to their communities at night or they sleep on the streets until the festive season winds down. Many of these individuals are children who, left to their own devices, are also subjecting themselves to potential danger by roaming the streets unattended. Handing over money to a beggar at an intersection might give some people a sense of making a contribution, but the reality is that they are simply helping to perpetuate a cycle that they are working very hard to break.
The R5 handed over to an individual will sustain them for only a short period. The City needs to impress upon the public that they cannot distance themselves from the consequence of such ad hoc monetary donations and that they are ultimately responsible for what happens with that money, whether it is used to fuel substance abuse or finds the receiver in a position where they become a target as a result of that donation. However, a contribution in cash or kind to a registered organisation that is committed to the welfare of street people will make a much more positive impact on the lives of those who need it most. This is at the heart of the City’s Give Responsibly campaign, launched a few years ago. Alternatively, members of the public can make a R10 donation by texting the word ‘Give’ to 38802. There is also the option of giving street people a hand up by helping them secure employment or providing a meal for them and their family, if members of the public really want to make a difference. In addition to the Give Responsibly campaign, the City of Cape Town will deploy a team of dedicated field workers over the festive season to assist with any street people-related matters, while 14 Local Networks of Care will be operational in various communities to deter migration to the streets. For more information contact Street People on 0800 827 201
FOOD
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THE NEWSPAPER
Oranjezicht City Farm Market at Leeuwenhof The Oranjezicht City Farm announced on the evening of 27 November 2014 that the popular Saturday Market Day will resume trade on 29 November, after Western Cape Premier Helen Zille saved the market when she agreed to relocate the market to her official residence, Leeuwenhof in Cape Town, every Saturday from 9am to 2pm until further notice.
Started two years ago, the Oranjezicht City Farm project has turned an underused public green space into a thriving small-scale food farm. The aim was to create a sustainable urban farming model that could be replicated in other communities affected by food security and economic challenges. Some of the achievements since Oranjezicht City Farm’s existence is the employment of 2 full time farm workers, 6 part time farmers and 6 casuals, over 10 000 hours of volunteer time, and supporting local small businesses and emerging micro farmers. During this time 1 600 learners from 40 schools received hands-on educational workshops while 5 Kids’ Markets and 70 market days filled the Saturday calendar.
The news comes just hours after the directors of the Oranjezicht City Farm (OZCF) issued a public statement announcing their decision to cease all market operations with immediate effect, due to weeks of struggling to secure certain permissions for their original market location in Homestead Park, as well as other heritage requirements and restrictions.
The market is listed as one of Cape Town’s best and the Oranjezicht City Farm was the proud winner of the 2014 Eat Out Zonnebloem Produce Awards. During selected Market days Leeuwenhof Estate, apart from the official residence, was also open for Day visitors to walk around and enjoy the extensive gardens for the very first time. The Oranjezicht City Farm Market will resume on 17 January 2015.
Peregrine Farm Stall Marks 50 Years
The Saturday Market continued trade at the ‘Zille Villa’ on 29 November, 6,13 and 20 December, creating public awareness and a many people flocked to the market to experience the magnificent vibe, buying farm fresh produce from OZCF as well as 5 emerging micro farmers from Manenberg, Philippi, Wynberg and Stellenbosch. Currently 40 traders display their fresh farm products including Farmer Fritz Rabe of Tanqua Karoo Natural Produce displaying his huge Karoo grown artichokes, signature roses and the freshest, hand plaited garlic and organic alfalfa sprouts; and colourful capsicum chillies.
The Oranjezicht City Farm is a non-profit project celebrating local food, culture and community through urban farming in Cape Town, located on the corner of 09:06:29 AM Sidmouthroodenburg10x4.pdf Avenue and1 2014/12/19 Upper Orange Street, Oranjezicht, adjacent to Homestead Park.
De Nieuwe BUTCHERY & DELI
De Nieuwe SLAGHUIS & DELI
TEL: 021 853 6320 43 WESLEY STREET, STRAND
As the Burls family prepared to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Peregrine Farm Stall in Elgin, Western Cape, tragedy struck. On the night of 3rd of May 2014 the farm stall’s long-serving restaurant was badly damaged in a fire and had to be closed for extensive renovations. Now, out of the ashes, an exciting new restaurant has opened to serve the countless travellers that stop at the road trip institution. The new restaurant space echoes the architecture of the area’s many apple barns but uses a structure of Austrian spruce and glass to give it an open, contemporary feel, complete with screed floors, chalkboard menus and vintage Hoi P’loy lighting. The café flows into the original deli and still offers an outdoor seating area. The restaurant concept has been tweaked to streamline the experience for travellers - who generally want to stop, rest, eat and go. Guests in a hurry can now order and pay for their food at the café counter and will then have their food brought to them by a waiter when it is ready. Alternatively guests can be seated and enjoy excellent service from the waiting staff. The menu continues to hit the spot with old fashioned favourites like burgers and toasties but also includes a range of fresh and tasty salads with wood roasted vegetables and hearty meals such as the famous Peregrine Venison pie. Origin coffee, freshly squeezed apple juice, Elgin wines and locally made Everson’s Cider are also on offer. The focus is on fresh, local ingredients and homemade recipes, many of which date back decades. The signature collection of vintage tractors in the parking area has been gathered over the years by the Burls family and many a visitor has posed beside one. A fenced kiddies park is located around the corner from the main restaurant and visitors can browse the nursery, rose nursery and gift and décor store; Sleeping Beauty Traders. Elgin Valley Tourism’s information centre is also located in the complex. For more information visit www.peregrinefarmstall.co.za
ORGANIC
THE NEWSPAPER
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Olives Produced Organically - The Traditional Greek Way Skooby and Elizabeth Schoeman are the proud owners of Laharna Farm Products, a Proudly South African product manufactured in Hammanshof, situated between Worcester and Villiersdorp in the Western Cape. Skooby Schoeman left Zimbabwe for South Africa in 1985, and worked on various farms before he and his wife Elizabeth moved to Van Wyksdorp, and joined his sister in organic farming. During their stay the neighbouring olive farm became available, and they bought it. Skooby and Elizabeth built up their farm, constructed tunnels, and propagated Olive Trees. They decided to grow vegetables which they supplied to Pick n Pay and Woolworths, and at the same time Elizabeth engaged in marketing small quantities of olive products. The olive farming was doing well, but they struggled to generate an income by farming with vegetables. They were subjected to a four hour journey to Cape Town, an overnight stop, and a four hour return journey once a week to deliver their fresh produce to various suppliers. In 2000 they engaged in producing different Olive Products with added value. They established a niche market product and became the first pioneers in bottling smoked olives. Shortly thereafter Elizabeth became the first in making olive chutney and olive jam. It was not long before other olive producers followed suite with similar products, and the local market became saturated. Elizabeth and Skooby decided it was time to expand their horizons and started marketing their olive products at farmers markets in Gauteng. Their business flourished, yet the expense in running a farm as well as travelling to the various markets throughout the country, negatively impacted their success. In 2012 an Australian purchased the farm and they took up residency on a farm between Worcester and Villiersdorp. To them this was the best decision in a lifetime, not having the responsibility of running a farm while travelling the country to market their Olive products. Their entire business adopted a different marketing approach. They had more time on hand to source high quality olives from olive producing estates in the Western Cape, escalate their production and penetrate a much larger segment of the market. Research and Development became their forte in the production of other products with added value. These products include Olive Biltong, Smoked Olive Paste, Olive Pesto and Olive Paste flavoured with Basil, garlic, and almonds, Sweet Olive Chilli Sauce, Hot Olive Chilli Sauce, as well as a mixed herb Italian Rub saw the light, not to mention Extra Virgin Cold Press Olive Oil.
PRODUCTS Olives - The three olive pipped products are: Olives with Rosemary, Olives with Chilli and Lemon Olives packed in 1 Litre and 500ml tubs. The stuffed garlic olives and smoked olives are both de-pipped. These products are packed in 250ml containers. Olive Chutney - It is a very unique product with a flavour of its own and consist of olives with onions, apricots, vinegar, red peppers and mixed herbs. Olive Jam – The jam is made from olives, lemon and sugar with Elizabeth’s own recipe. Olive Biltong – This Vegetarian product's tasty seasoning consists of dried olives, dried chilli and dried garlic – It is called olive biltong because it is made from dried olives. Olive Paste - There are three products in this range: Olive Paste with chilli and garlic, Smoked Olive paste flavoured with chilli and garlic, and the Olive paste with Sundried tomato consisting of pickled Sundried tomato in a sweet and sour sauce, blended with olives. Olive Dips - Olive Dips are available in 250ml glass jars. The first product consists of an Olive Dip with chilli and garlic, while the second Olive Dip consists of an Olive Dip with honey and mustard.
WHAT MAKES LAHARNA OLIVE PRODUCTS SO UNIQUE? From the outset Elizabeth and Skooby decided to produce an Olive Product of quality by disregarding all methods toward fast-tracked commercial Olive production by shortcutting the process and placing olives in caustic soda for four weeks before it is bottled. To them an excellent Olive Product needs to be subjected to the old Greek technique, the organic natural method of preparing the Olive prior to bottling. Laharna Farm place their olives for a period of eight to nine months in raw mined Namibian salt, not iodized, with no chemicals added and they use only natural grape vinegars. This method enhances the Olive quality; it washes the olives, takes the bitterness out and softens the Olive texture slightly. It is very important to Laharna that their olive products stay organic and maintain its health benefits to customers.
An Olive Dip is a wonderful product when used to marinate meat. For a lovely olive flavoured dish, marinate meat or chicken for 2-3. Olive dip can also be used as dips for chips and other snacks as well as on a cold meat sandwich, or even on a baked potato. Honey mustard dip is delicious with cold meat, and the chilli and garlic dip can be used on salads or as a spread. Other product in the Laharna Farm Product Range include: Olive pesto flavoured with basil and almonds, basil pesto, Chilli Sauce (Hot), Chilli Sauce (Sweet), Extra Virgin Gold Press Olive Oil and the mixed herbs Italian rub. AWARDS Various gold and silver awards were bestowed upon Laharna Farm Products Laharna Olives with Chilli, Laharna Lemon Olives, Laharna Olive Paste with chilli and garlic as well as the Laharna Smoked Olive paste flavoured with chilli and garlic, and the Laharna Olive Paste with Sundried tomato in a sweet and sour sauce. Laharna Olive products are available in Guateng, Northern Cape, Namibia and the Western Cape with exhibitions at Homemakers Fair, Decorex, Good Food and Wine Show, as well as farmers markets in the Western Cape. For more information contact Elizabeth on 079 092 0161 or 023 340 4035 or e-mail scoobie@netconnect.co.za
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PROPE
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.co.za • 08611 23522
ERTY
R102
Kelderhof Country Village
Sales Centre
Croydon Olive & Vineyard Estates
Macassar
Main Rd
Sitari Country Estate
N2 M9
Firgrove
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TRAVEL
Stellenbosch Wine Routes opens Wine Tourism Visitor Centre The Stellenbosch American Express® Wine Routes celebrates the bustling festive season with the opening of a Wine Tourism Visitor Centre in the heart of the City of Oaks. It offers locals and visitors an engaging ‘hotspot’ to get up close and personal with South Africa’s granddaddy of wine routes and get an insider-scoop on what’s hot and happening in this popular wine tourism region.
THE NEWSPAPER
Tour the Western Cape The Cape Peninsula Tour covers the breathtakingly beautiful coastal routes to and from the most South Westerly point of Africa. At Cape Point, you can elect to take the funicular railway almost to the top or choose to climb along well marked paths taking the opportunity to stop at different levels to enjoy the views. There is a short walking climb from the upper funicular stop to the very highest point. It is advisable to take a warm top and/or wind cheater, even if the weather seems fine.
47 Church Street is your one stop destination for a slice of the vibrant Stellenbosch lifestyle, where free wifi, comprehensive information and wine tourism guidance, good quality coffee, friendly staff and casual wine tastings come standard, seven days a week. As the oldest wine route in the country, the Stellenbosch Wine Routes might be considered a golden oldie with its winemaking legacy spanning over more than four decades, but with all its innovative wine tourism initiatives going strong, this dynamic Winelands darling still manages to fuel all the senses. Stellenbosch Wine Routes clinched the title as Best Promotional Body at the Wine Tourism Awards 2014 of the authoritative Drinks International magazine, excelled at the 2015 Great Wine Capitals Global Network Best Of Wine Tourism Awards held in Mendoza, Argentina, where numerous local producers raked in awards and the Stellenbosch Winelands also consolidated its role as the country’s Gourmet and Wine Capital, claiming seven of the top twenty nominations in the 2014 Eat Out Restaurant Awards. The Stellenbosch Wine Routes is also proud to have the Western Cape Farm Worker of the Year 2014 as well as the Diner’s Club Winemaker of the Year 2014. For more information visit www.wineroute.co.za.
Hermanus Celebrates Cape Whale Coast Hope Spot The Cape Whale Coast Hope Spot (CWC-HS), which stretches for 200km from Rooi Els to Quion Point in the Western Cape is unique in its combination of rich and abundant biodiversity, spectacular scenery and cultural heritage.
Participants are collected at 08h30 and the tour takes approximately nine hours (depending on collection location), including breaks for lunch and morning and afternoon refreshments. Lunch will be taken at Cape Point. The tour ends at the Victoria & Albert Waterfront for a ‘Sundowner’ before returning to the collection point. By arrangement, the participants can remain at the Waterfront for their evening meal or simply walk around the shops and enjoy the ambiance. The outward leg of the tour follows the scenic route along the False Bay Coast, including St James, Fish Hoek, Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach (African Penguin colony), Cape Point and Good Hope Nature Reserve. The return journey is along the equally scenic Atlantic seaboard, through Scarborough, Kommetjie, Chapman’s Peak (subject to the pass being open), Hout Bay and Clifton. Wine and Whale Tours specialize in Wine Tours. All day tours include visits to areas of historical significance and natural beauty to ensure an interesting and informative day. Other tour offers include Scenic Tours, Golf Tours, Wine and Whale Tours in the Western Cape. For more information contact alan@wineandwhaletours.com or call +27 (0) 72 019 4456 Visit www.wineandwhaletours.com
Get control over your journey! While innovation in aircraft design over the past decade has improved the onboard experience, digital technology is giving customers more control over every aspect of their journey. Today most airline websites, such as ba.com, enable you to search for the most convenient flights or alternatively the best value and provide alternatives and breakdown of charges, so you can make an informed choice. You can even pay a nominal amount to hold seats for up to 72 hours. You can also book car hire, accommodation, pay a discounted rate for excess baggage and even check your destination’s weather forecast so you know what to pack.
Covering over 70% of the Earth’s surface, oceans represent the largest habitat on the planet, contain 99% of available living space and provide homes for more than 50% of all known species. Oceans provide people with more than 20% of our global protein requirements and contribute between 70-80% of the oxygen we breathe. Yet, the very oceans on which we are so dependent are threatened by decades of overfishing, pollution, climate change and acidification. Dr Sylvia Earle, world renowned marine conservationist and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, believes: “We are in a sweet spot in time. A time when we are equipped with the knowledge and technology to protect the oceans, promoting a global sense of hope for people, different cultures and the environment.” To date 50 Hope Spots have been declared worldwide. In December, Dr Earle, visited South Africa to inaugurate the first six Hope Spots on the African continent and officially launched the CWC-HS in Overstrand. The CWC-HS contains many unique natural and cultural sites, including the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, Dyer Island Provincial Nature Reserve, Walker Bay Whale Sanctuary, and Betty’s Bay Marine Protected Area. The latter exists adjacent to the land-based colony of African Penguins at Stoney Point – the only growing colony of African Penguins in the world. The Windsor Hotel and Apartments in Hermanus have a prime location overlooking Walker Bay, part of the Cape Whale Coastline with its champagne air, incredible views and marine activity. Information is supplied by the Windsor Hotel and Self Catering Apartments in Hermanus. For more information contact 028 312 3727 or Email: info@windsorhotel.co.za
Best of all is that all this can now also be done from a mobile phone or tablet while on the move, including booking, changing flights on eligible tickets or upgrading cabins. Since it was launched, well over a million customers have downloaded British Airways’ app, which elevates the customer experience to a whole new level. Not only can you check-in using your mobile device, but can also have your boarding pass sent directly to it. Effectively this means you can get your bag tagged at a fast-bag drop, skip the check-in queues and go straight to security. These include electronic bag tags, which are being trialled at the moment. When you check-in you’ll be able to store all the relevant information on the tag. At the airport you’ll simply place your bag on an automated baggage machine, which is able to read the tag and deliver it to the aircraft. The airline is also pioneering an initiative called ‘known customer’ which will allow frequent flyers who have been vetted by security services to fast track through security checks. British Airways has also provided over 2 000 iPads to senior cabin crew, loaded with bespoke customer-service software. This enables them to see immediately if a customer has a tight connection, particular preference or has raised a complaint or concern. Prior to take off they can link with colleagues on the ground who can deal with problems or make arrangements while the aircraft is in the air. This more personalised experience has also been extended to the way the airline interacts with its customers on social media, with South African customers now able to browse a localised Facebook page by selecting their country of origin on the airline’s home page. This gives them access to relevant offers, competitions and other information.
THE NEWSPAPER
LEISURE
PAGE 11
WELTEVREDEN ESTATE - THE PERFECT FAMILY FRIENDLY DESTINATION Carnival Something else that sets the Estate apart from other child-friendly venues, is the Carnival area. This family area is a place where children are never separated from adults and parents. Family tables are spread throughout the playgrounds, where they can have some time together, while child minders keep an eye on all children. The Carnival area consists of two humongous plastic jungle gyms surrounded by tar-tar rubber scooter tracks where kids can either ride their own scooters, or use those when available. Nestled in the shadow of the Simonsberg Mountain in the heart of Stellenbosch, adjacent to Welgevonden Estate, with its entrance off the R304, is the beautifully restored Weltevreden Estate - a heritage site transformed into a family-friendly destination. History reveals that Weltevreden Estate was awarded by Simon Van der Stel, the governor of the Cape, to Hans Henke in 1692 and became the third farm outside Stellenbosch likely to have been settled at the time of founding the small settlement of Stellenbosch. In 1812 the famous Voortrekker leader, Piet Retief, built the Manor House for his sister, Deborah. Legend has it that Retief cemented the blueprint for the Great Trek of 1837 while residing at Weltevreden – the reason being the wagon wheel insignia, the only one of its kind, added to the front gable of the Manor House. The Cape Dutch ‘werf’ located at the front of the Manor House has been expertly restored to its former glory, and dates back to 1804. In 1975 the buildings were proclaimed a National Monument followed by the entire property in 1998.
Apart from the trampoline, sandpit, kiddies table and chairs, a variety of other toys are to be found on the playground. The kids even have their own kiddies menu to choose from, while adults can order food and drinks while watching their children play.
Guest House All the buildings on the Estate have Heritage status, even the main Manor House, fitted with period furniture and representative of South African art with paintings by Christo Coetzee, and sculptures by Ruhan Janse van Vuuren. The exquisitely refurbished Manor House offers guest accommodation of world-class standard. There are four elevated bedchambers upstairs under a cosy thatched roof, while the executive suite on the ground floor includes access to a yellow wooded kitchen including a formal dining area and lounge.
Apex Collection The Apex Collection showcase 11 Porsche GT racing models between 1966 and 2008. The museum at Weltevreden is home to one of the largest Porsche collections in South Africa, displaying memorabilia and books.
The Estate The historic Estate comprise of a Restaurant, a Carnival, The Apex Collection, a Guest House, and serve as a venue for Weddings and other Functions. By the 1980’s buildings on the Estate had become quite dilapidated and the restoration project took 9 years to complete. The present owner purchased the Estate a few years ago and incorporated a social upliftment program by hiring people from Kyamandi and Cloetesville. Weltevreden Estate was never a wine farm nor engaged in winemaking.
LekkerNeh Heroes Restaurant LekkerNeh Heroes Restaurant & Bar, located in the Jonkerhuis provides homage to memorabilia from heroes such as Michael Schumacher, Ayrton Senna, Bob Marley, and Madonna. A large photograph and small statue of Mr Mandela reminds you that he is one of South Africa’s biggest heroes. A football jersey signed by both Lionel Messi and Nelson Mandela during the Soccer 2010 World Cup is also on display in the Restaurant.
The collection include 3 Vintage Porsche's dating from 1966, 1968, and 1972. From 1995 – 2008 the exhibition focus more on the modern range of Porsche's. Most of the Porches are RS models. The owner of the collection is an avid racer and his real interest is the race aspect of Porsche. The Apex Collection has a strong social responsibility programme in support of the Put Foot Foundation. The Put Foot Rally started at the estate during 2014 and travel around Africa to provide under privileged children the opportunity to wear shoes. The collection is open to the public from 09h00 – 12h00 on Saturdays, and any other days by appointment. An entrance fee of R40 is levied of which a portion goes to the Put Food Foundation.
Weddings and Functions Weltevreden Estate provides the most suitable platform which ultimately creates the perfect wedding day to suit personality, and style. Its gardens personifies rich, historical features, lush green foliage, a charming river and many other unique historic features to set the perfect location for wedding photographs. Having a wedding chapel on the estate makes it an all in one wedding venue with two different wedding ceremonies to choose from, as well as a selection of three different wedding packages. The Maze is an ideal setting for a wedding ceremony and creates a favourite amongst couples in search of the ultimate wedding venue. The Apex collection as part of the wedding package can also be included.
LekkeNeh Heroes specializes in ‘Gourmet Comfort’ and reflects the combination of meals which date back to the days when food was prepared as only mothers and grandmothers could – dishes with enriched authentic Boland flavours. LekkeNeh is not competing with fine dining venues, but claim to be a restaurant with comfort where families and friends can enjoy a good meal in the ambiance of a lovely estate.
After the ceremony while the bride and groom are posing for wedding photos, guests can have pre-drinks outside the Apex and afterwards view the museum, keeping guests occupied. The Waenshuis on the estate can also be utilised as a chapel, conference venue or private functions. Visit Weltevreden Estate – the perfect Family-friendly destination in the heart of the Cape Winelands! For more information call 021 889 6588 or marketing@seascapecollection.co.za or visit www.weltevredenestate.com
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GENERAL
THE NEWSPAPER
Airports Company contributes over half a million to disabled in Western Cape
Airports Company South Africa handed over 24 wheelchairs and 7 hearing aids to 8 special needs schools from the Western Cape at a cost of R 265,225.00 and as part of this amount, a Bariatric Hoist (600kgs) to the value of R 50,207.00 was donated to be installed at a disabled person’s house in Nyanga. Airports Company South Africa’s long-sustained commitment to the disability sector focuses on mobility projects to provide access to people with physical disabilities by increasing their access to resources and other relevant support systems. Over the past ten years, through their Wheelchair Donation Programme, more than 10 000 wheelchairs have been given to deserving recipients. The Wheelchair Donation Programme is conducted in conjunction with the Department of Social Department as well as with provincial departments responsible for health and social development. “Our company therefore pursues projects that enhance the integration of physically disabled persons into society through occupational and emotional support, provision of physical support systems, infrastructure improvement and skills development, education and awareness,” said Deborah Francis, Head of Department, Communications, Cape Town International Airport.
Wheelchair Beneficiaries include: Astra School for Physically Disabled (Montana) Athlone School for the Blind (Bellville South), Bel Porto School (Lansdowne), Nompumelelo School (Gugulethu), Noluthando School ( Khayelitsha), Paarl School for Disabled (Brackenfell), Maitland Cottage Home (Newlands), Disabled person in Nyanga and Robertson Home based in Milnerton.
Coffee and suits Calendar
HealthNet fleet gains
Getting out of a comfort zone and doing something different for a community project – these were the main reasons for the decision to take on the challenge of doing a special edition calendar with the main goal of raising funds and having fun at the same time.
Photo credit: mullerfoto.com
‘Coffee and suits - Calendar with a difference’ is the theme of a project collaboration between Eunice Visagie from Outsider Communications and CM Muller of mullerfoto.com - a special edition 2015 calendar.
Sportsmen from across various sporting codes gave their time for this calendar that will sell to raise funds for the Ithemba Foundation. They are captain of the Springbok Sevens rugby team Kyle Brown, gold medal winner with the Sevens at the Commonwealth Games Chris Dry, Springbok Sevens players Stephan Dippenaar and Steven Hunt; international hockey players Wade Paton, Pierre de Voux and Dylan Swanepoel; triathletes Bradley Weiss, Theo Blignaut and Matt Daneel; mountain bikers Adriaan Louw and Jurgens Uys. All the photos for the calendar were taken in the häzz Espresso Bar in Stellenbosch.
tailor-made wheelchair patient transporters Ahead of the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities being commemorated on 3 December, the Western Cape Minister of Health, Theuns Botha, viewed the new wheelchair patient transporters that have been added to the HealthNet fleet. The advanced conversion of the vehicles were done at just under R500 000 per vehicle, bringing the total project cost to just under R5 million rand. The ten new vehicles will be deployed throughout the Western Cape Province. In the past HealthNet transport services could not adequately accommodate disabled persons due to a lack of vehicles that could transport these patients safely. Emergency Medical Services together with Volkswagen and Advanced Vehicle Engineering designed a solution and recently procured ten wheelchair patient transporters. Minister Botha “tested” the technology, and acted as a patient being loaded onto the transporter. “I am extremely impressed. These new transporters demonstrate the dedication of our Department to address the challenges through innovation. It is a transporter that adds dignity to the transport experience of our disabled patients.”
The Ithemba Foundation is a non-profit entity with the public benefit goals of raising awareness of depression as a biological illness, and raising funds for research on depression. If depression is the illness of despair, then we need to constantly focus on HOPE (Ithemba means hope in isiXhosa). Every individual can be an agent of HOPE by talking openly about depression to break the silence and the stigma around this biological illness, which can become fatal.
Unlike normal HealthNet patient transporters, these new vehicles are able to transport four able-bodied patients, as well as a wheelchair-bound patient.
Calendars available from Eunice Visagie at 076 382 7754 or email eunicevisagie@gmail.com
How to curb your child Are you worried about the impact that smartphones, tablets and other handheld devices are having on your child? Has family time and homework been affected by your child mindlessly jumping for their smartphone or tablet every time it rings, sings or vibrates? The good news is that you’re not alone. Since 2011, usage of smartphones and tablets among young users has increased threefold, according to Common Sense Media, a San Francisco based non-profit that analyses the effects of technology on children.
Minister of Health, Theuns Botha
The rear hinged doors which would normally provide access to the luggage compartment, now open to reveal a foldout ramp and adjustable restraint and pulley system to quickly load a wheelchair bound patient with absolute ease.
The conversion is approved by VW Germany as well as VW South Africa which means the vehicle warranty and service plan remains intact. The new vehicles will form part of the HealthNet fleet of patient transporters, bringing the total number of HealthNet vehicles capable of transporting wheelchairbound patients to 12. The new vehicles are able to carry four patients (excluding the wheelchair patient) and due to their compact size and engine capacity the cost of operating these new vehicles is considerably reduced. EMS currently operates 540 vehicles in total of which 90 are specific to HealthNet patient transport.
While television, interactive video games and the Internet can be excellent sources of education and entertainment for children, too much screen time can lead to bad health, obesity and behavioural problems. The solution - Apps such as Dinner Time Parental Control, which enables parents to restrict when their children can use their - smartphones and tablets and ScreenTime, which allows parents to push a button on their phone, which blocks usage on their children's devices and sets daily time limits for particular apps. “Entry level smartphones and tablets has made it possible for more kids to have their own devices. This is fantastic on so many levels, but on the other hand, as parents, we need to be more vigilant with the amount of time our kids are spending on their devices,” says Riaan Swart, MD of Solv, an IT concierge company based in Cape Town and a dad to two young children, Jessica (seven) and Archie (five).
How does it work - To use the app, parents install it on their child’s device and enter in their phone number to link the two devices. Parents can then set specific break times, ranging from 30 minutes to three hours, when the device will be locked. A countdown screen displayed on your child's device shows when they can use it again. For apps like ScreenTime parents can purchase detailed reporting, which outlines how much time your child spend on certain apps, and how often they use them. Limit - The reality is that most kids can use a smartphone before they have learned how to write their name down or tie their shoes. “Technology is not going to go away, as parents we need to manage and control our children’s consumption and use. As someone who spends a lot of time using technology, I’ve found these apps incredibly helpful; they keep my own tech time in check. As a parent, setting personal limits on your own technology use is a very good start,” says Riaan.
THE NEWSPAPER
CONSERVATION
PAGE 13
Simply Bee – The Best in Natural Bee Products and Bee Conservation Simply Bee Natural Beeswax Products is a family business, situated in the remote town of Hopefield, 140km’s from Cape Town - in the heart of the famous West Coast fynbos area. It is not only Simply Bee’s mission to cultivate awareness of the health benefits of natural pure honey and beeswax products, but also to support bee conservation. History dates back to 1954 when Derick Hugo received his first beehive and became a passionate hobbyist beekeeper. When he retired in 1994, he and his wife Marie returned to Hopefield and transformed their hobby into a business. Today Derick Hugo’s first gloves, smoker and beehive displayed in the Bee Observation Centre is a reminder of the foundation he laid for Pierre and Helena van der Westhuizen who continued the family legacy of beekeeping since 2008. Pierre took over the beekeeping, while Helena, being allergic to most cosmetics with synthetic ingredients and harsh preservatives engaged in the research, trials and studying of the bees and their products. Their dedicated interest led to the beginning of Simply Bee, a range of natural, organic products for both the body and home.
Propolis Liquid - Traditionally, Propolis is used as an antibiotic as well as a stimulant of the immune system, reducing the occurrence and severity of colds, flu and throat infections. Propolis increase resistance to infection and is widely recognized as a preventative supplement and also limits the growth of Protozoa and therefore an effective treatment for some intestinal parasites. Propolis Balm - Simply Bee Propolis Balm can be used to repair sore and weak skin, prevent infections, heal open wounds and diminish acne. Positive feedback has been received from customers on applying Propolis balm to leg ulcers, shingles, warts and boils. Other Simply Bee Products - Simply Bee’s product range offers all natural handmade products, making it safe as well as environmentally friendly. The product range include Hand & Body Products, a Facial Skin care range, Baby Products, Men’s products, Hair products, Soaps & Candles, Medicinal ointments and Balms, Polishes and Gift Pack combinations.
Helena believes that natural ingredients must come from a renewable and plentiful resource found in nature, yet with absolutely no petroleum compounds. Equally important is how those ingredients are processed. Helena controls the manufacturing of Simply Bee products. Any processing, including distillation, condensation, extraction, steaming, and hydrolysis are kept to a minimum. Her goal is to maximise purity without negative effects on the ingredients, and to keep natural ingredients natural. This ensures full retention of their beneficial properties. Simply Bee is very fortunate to have their bee hives in Fynbos areas around Hopefield with no commercial farming within the immediate vicinity. Therefore, their honey, beeswax and propolis are all 100% organic. Health benefits of Propolis Most powerful natural Antibiotic Helena spend years researching the properties of Propolis, the most effective and natural antibiotic that has no side effects. Propolis can be defined as the resinous material gathered by honeybees from tree bark and leaves. Combined with the nectar from plants the honeybees use it as disinfectant as well as to waterproof their hives. Propolis contains a variety of pharmacological and biological properties, including the likes of anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory elements. Numerous substances in Propolis have been identified which belong to the flavonoid family including organic acids, vitamin and mineral content. Propolis has been used in the past internally to combat Gastro-intestinal Infections, Bacterial and Fungal, Sore Throats, Colds, Malaria, Cancer, HIV, Peptic Ulcers, Ulcers in the Mouth, Ulcerative Colitis, Parasitic, Tuberculosis, and Candidacies. At Simply Bee Helena only use the propolis harvested from their own bee hives to create the following 3 natural products: Propolis Serum - This richly repairing micro-emulsified serum contains a high concentration Propolis and combined with Neroli, calms, heals, and truly enriches your skin. Anti-bacterial and decongesting, this formulation alleviates micro-circulation problems and strengthens fragile skin. Propolis has been proved to be beneficial to human skin and is considered as luxurious, and with regard to the skin propolis promotes new cell growth and prevents skin aging and age spots.
Simply Bee also offers 100% pure Fynbos Honey, collected from a protected Fynbos area far away from any commercial farming, thus ensuring no exposure to pesticides and a high quality of medicinal value in the honey. Honey is available in a variety of volumes. Simply Bee started off with only 5 products in the range and today, due to public demand, it has expanded to an over 50 product-range. Conservation and Observation Centre As creators and owners of Simply Bee the Van der Westhuizen’s mission is not only to cultivate awareness on the benefits of using natural beeswax products, but also to aid in bee conservation as bees are their passion. In conjunction with their show room at Simply Bee, they have recently opened a Simply Bee Observation Centre adjacent to the shop in Hopefield. Simply Bee Observation Centre boasts with the West Coast's first glass beeobservation hives with two live bee colonies. The hives have glass panels which offer a safe opportunity to view a bee colony in their natural environment. The Observation Centre presents an informative, educational and interactive way of learning all there is to know about the incredible life-cycle of honey bees and therefore offer special educational packages for groups. Bookings are essential to ensure a full educational experience and demonstration. Protecting the Bee As much as the bee has an important role in ensuring the survival of humanity, even so is humanity responsible in securing the Bee’s survival. Honeybees are the pollinators of every third mouthful of food consumed. Ignoring the importance of a functional ecosystem with reference to the Bee, over a 100 different crops worldwide may be affected. According to statistics, bee populations around the world have plummeted by a staggering 30% globally over the last 30 years. Awards Simply Bee's products received exceptional ratings at this year's Free from Skin Care awards in the UK. The Propolis serum was a finalist with the Heal Balm and Anti-Ageing cream as nominees in the coveted Natural and Organic Awards in the UK for the best Natural Beauty & Spa Product. Simply Bee has 163 stockists in South Africa and also exports to Zimbabwe, Namibia, England, USA and Mauritius. For more information call 022 723 0569 or info@simplybeeswax.co.za or visit www.simplybee.co.za
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SAFETY
THE NEWSPAPER
BE SAFE AND SMART THIS SUMMER SEASON Safety at beaches & swimming pools is a shared responsibility The holiday season and the warm weather will see thousands of people flocking to swimming pools and beaches. In the rush to cool off on hot summer days, many people, especially children, tend to get caught up in the moment and forget about being safe in the water. A total of 250 trained and accredited lifeguards will be deployed to various beaches between 10:00 and 18:00 daily. This service will be boosted by lifesaving clubs on some beaches, Lifesaving Western Province’s volunteer services, and the National Sea Rescue Institute. In addition, there will be 218 lifeguards on duty who will oversee the City’s 36 public swimming pools over the peak holiday season. On peak days, the high numbers of people visiting beaches and pools make it very difficult for lifeguards to keep a watchful eye on swimmers all the time. The lifeguards are under constant pressure to keep a keen eye out for anyone in distress. Parents need to be on high alert when their children are playing in or near the ocean, a river or a pool. Children can also get lost on crowded beaches and parents are urged to be particularly vigilant.
Be aware of Rip Currents During spring tide these rip currents are stronger than normal and although rip currents at all times pose a danger to bathers they pose the greatest danger during the spring tide. Bathers are at risk of being swept out to sea by rip currents while swimming or wading in water along the beach front. Even bathers wading in shallow water who find themselves trapped in a rip current that forms suddenly are at risk of being swept out to sea by rip currents. Bathers caught-up in a rip current should not panic. Simply stay afloat by treading water, don’t try to swim against the current as it will only cause exhaustion. Let the current sweep you out to sea but at your first opportunity swim parallel to the beach front until you are free of the rip current and then use the incoming waves to get back to shore. While this is happening shout for help and wave an arm to alert people on the beach to raise the alarm.
Safety tips for Beachgoers - Swim only where there are lifeguards and where signs indicate that it is safe to do so. Do not swim in an area if there are no lifeguards present. Make sure that the lifeguards can see you when you are in the water. Always swim between the red and yellow flags. These indicate safe, supervised swimming areas. An area outside of these flags could have dangerous rip-currents and tides. - Only swim in areas where other people are present. Swim in groups and advise friends or family when you go swimming. - Do not swim when there are marine animals such as whales, dolphins and seals in the area. - If you find yourself in trouble, raise your arm and wave to attract the lifeguard’s attention. Try not to panic, as this will make you tired. If you see someone in trouble in the sea, alert the lifeguards or find trained help. Do not put your own life in danger as well. - Do not to allow family members and friends to go into the water if they have consumed alcohol.
Shark Spotters improve beach safety Shark Spotters is a pioneering shark safety programme that has attracted international and local attention because of the novel way it seeks to find a solution to potential conflicts between sharks and people. Adopted by the City of Cape Town in 2004 in response to a spate of shark bite incidents and increased shark sightings, Shark Spotting is now the primary shark safety programme used in Cape Town. Shark Spotters improve beach safety through both shark warnings and emergency assistance in the event of a shark incident. It contributes to research on shark ecology and behaviour, raises public awareness about shark-related issues, and provides employment opportunities and skills development for Shark Spotters. Shark Spotters are positioned at strategic points along the Cape Peninsula, primarily along the False Bay coastline. A spotter is placed on the mountain with polarised sunglasses and binoculars.
Swim at beaches where lifeguards are on duty and obey the instructions of the lifeguards and only swim within the safe swimming zones lifeguards mark (using their red and yellow flags). Children should have responsible adult supervision at all times around coastal and inland waters. To report a Sea Rescue Emergency dial 112 from a cellphone or SMS 32287 with your name and a message of support for the Sea Rescue crew (SMS charged at R1).
Tips while travelling - Awareness: Think for your fellow drivers. Be alert and aware of what’s happening around you at all time. - Obey the speed limit. - Never drive in the yellow line - Wear a Seatbelt: Ensure all vehicle occupants wear a seat belt. - Maintain a safe following distance. - Long distance travelling: If you’re on a long journey, divide the driving time into two hour shifts, taking turns behind the wheel with other eligible drivers in the car. - Do not use cell phones when driving. It is illegal and extremely dangerous. - Be patient
Photo Credit -Shark Spotters
- Do not drink and drive.
This spotter is in radio contact with another spotter on the beach. If a shark is seen the beach spotter sounds a siren and raises a white flag with a black shark. When the siren sounds the water users are requested to leave the water and only return when the appropriate all clear signal is given. Shark Spotters are on Duty on the following permanent beaches (365 days a year) from 8am to 6 pm: Muizenberg, St James/Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek and Caves, Kogel Bay. Temporarily Beaches (Oct – April: Weekends, Public Holidays and School Holidays) include Clovelly, Glencairn, Monwabisi and The Hoek, Noordhoek.
Where to get help over the festive season POLICE: 10111 | AMBULANCE: 10177 | EMERGENCY: 112 | | ER24: 084 124 | NETCARE: 082 911 | Call 107 on a landline or 021 480 7700 from a cellphone for all emergencies The 24/7 alcohol and drug helpline is available on 0800 435 748
THE NEWSPAPER
EVENTS
PAGE 15
The Classic Car & Bike Show On 17-18 January 2015, the International Police Association will celebrate the 15th Annual Classic Car & Bike Show at Timour Hall Villa in Plumstead.
Established as a fundraiser, this event is not only one of the highlights of the International Police Association (IPA) calendar, but it has become an institution in the Cape amongst nostalgia fans. With this proud heritage, it is important for the Western Cape Region of IPA to make a difference in the local community. The Classic Car & Bike Show features some of the rarest and most beautiful cars and bikes in the Cape and is one of only a handful of exhibits on this scale with tremendous growth over the past 14 years, in numbers of both exhibitors and attendees, therefore making it a two day event. On Saturday 17 January the exhibition will consist of vehicles which can be defined as ‘Modern Classics,’ including Hot Rods, Street Rods, souped up vehicles,racing cars and bikes, custom vehicles and motorcycles and a few new cars and bikes. On 18 January, the second day of the exhibition vehicles dating from as far back as the late 1890’s, to more recent times will be showcased. These are the classics that invoke an era of elegance, a more relaxed way of life and a time when craftsmanship was an important element of vehicle design and manufacture. The Classic Car & Bike Show strive to make this event enjoyable to the whole family – young and old with plenty of refreshments available, a number of food stalls and the ever popular, well shaded beer garden. For more information contact Jo Huysamen on 021 797 2582 or visit www.classiccarandbikeshow.co.za
Mix it your way at the 2015 J&B™ Met It’s a vibrant social mix of the fashionable and the famous, the groovers and movers and the thousands who seek to enjoy the intensity of life. On 31 January, South Africa’s oldest horserace, the 2015 J&B™ Met, takes place at Kenilworth Racecourse in the always-picturesque setting of Cape Town. It’s an event truly different to all others - brought to you by a whisky that’s ‘Made Different’. This year, the theme for the J&B™ Met is “Made for the Mix”, which calls on you to showcase how you pursue the unconventional path by combining different fashion styles together, rubbing shoulders with a mix of different people and dancing to a myriad of different beats. The “Made for the Mix” theme is largely inspired by the recently launched J&B™ Urban Honey – a spirit aperitif that mixes whisky with the flavours of honey. It is that which is seemingly unrelated that combines to create something outstanding. Regarded as Mzansi’s most prestigious horserace and Cape Town’s hottest party, the J&B™ Met is the culmination of the Cape summer calendar dating back to the 1880s and has been run ever since. The race became an iconic South African event after J&B™ became sponsors in 1977. Now in its 38th year, it’s a recordbreaking feat in that it’s the longest continuing sports sponsorship in the country.
Today, the race showcases twenty of South Africa’s top horses who compete for the R2.5 million stake over 2 000 metres.
The art of the Brick Expo
L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate
The Art of the Brick has already attracted millions of visitors worldwide in New York, Los Angeles, Melbourne, Shanghai and Singapore. The Art of the Brick® museum show tours North America, Asia, Australia and now South Africa. This New York-based artist has multiple unique exhibitions created solely from standard LEGO bricks with several new sculptures created specifically for each exhibition. Expo RSA is bringing the worldrenowned exhibition “The Art of the Brick” to South Africa for a limited engagement. Over seventy art sculptures created from more than a million LEGO® bricks will be on display at the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town from 12 December – 28 February 2015. These one-of-a-kind LEGO brick sculptures are the work of US artist Nathan Sawaya. The Art of the Brick has been proclaimed by CNN as one of the world’s 10 must-see exhibitions. The artworks on display are large-scale sculptures, many of which are human figures, but also includes a T-Rex skeleton constructed from over 80,000 LEGO bricks that measures over six metres in length. In addition, visitors will have a chance to see Sawaya’s recent interpretations of some of the world’s most famous artworks, such as Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring.
Each show has countless colorful LEGO pieces which Sawaya has transformed into whimsical and awe-inspiring creations. Sawaya’s ability to transform this common toy into something meaningful, his devotion to spatial perfection and the way he conceptualizes action, enables him to elevate what almost every child has played with into the status of contemporary art. “These works are very personal to me, since they reflect my growth as an artist as I strove to discover my creative identity,” said Sawaya. “The museum exhibition is accessible because it engages the child in all of us while simultaneously illuminating sophisticated and complex concepts. Everyone can relate to the medium since it is a toy that many children have at home.” “But my goal with this exhibition when it first debuted in 2007 was to elevate this simple plaything to a place it has never been before.”
General tickets for the J&B™ Met are available through www.jbscotch.co.za
Cape Town will once again receive a significant boost to its tourism and trade sectors when the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate (LQP) 2015 returns to Kenilworth Racecourse on 10 January for its 154th running. As one of the UK Telegraph’s top five race days in the world – with strong ties to Glorious Goodwood (UK) and the Breeder’s Cup (USA) – the annual event draws in excess of 4 000 horseracing enthusiasts, punters, owners, local and international media, socialites and tourists to Cape Town each year to experience both the race and the City. With horseracing contributing in excess of R2.71 billion to SA’s Gross Domestic Product (according to Horseracing South Africa’s most recent economic impact study), to bolster economic growth and community development in the Cape Town area, LQP sources and showcases only local suppliers and vendors, for all its needs from event coordination to food offerings. Further to this end, the event sponsored by leading brands like BMW South Africa & the Julius Bär Group, provides direct and indirect employment to the 100s of people – including jockeys, trainers, groomsmen, administrative staff and security personnel, amongst others – involved in all areas of this highly labour-intensive industry. In addition, LQP gives back to society by its support of local charity, the Montrose Foundation and its various programmes, including an Equine-Assisted Youth Development Programme, designed to address the problem of substance abuse affecting communities in South Africa. The 12 races at the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate will take place on 10 January 2015 at Kenilworth Racecourse, where race-goers, beautifully decked out in the event’s signature blue and white, will look on as the country’s top thoroughbreds pound the turf in pursuit of the R1 million purse. Photo Credit : Anne Photography
SPORTS NEWS For the dedicated fans
January 2015
Tel: 021 855 2900
www.thenewspaper.co.za
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World’s toughest inflatable boat challenge celebrates 27 years
When Sparks Esterhuyzen, well-known resident of Hermanus, first came up with the idea of organising an inflatable boat race of this magnitude, it was dismissed by many who believed it would be an impossible, dangerous quest. This did not stop three inflatable boat teams from entering the first Trans Agulhas Challenge in 1988. Today, 27 years later, the race is as popular as ever with many teams entering year after year. Each day the boats are expected to reach a number of check points on beaches along the route before proceeding to the finish point. On day one, stage one (December 28), the challenge starts at Hobie beach and ends at Santos beach in Mossel Bay. Stage one is the longest in the race, spanning 188.5km. On day two (December 29), the boats will have a beach checkpoint at Vleesbaai and Gouritz River Mouth before finishing at Stilbaai main beach. The total distance of stage two is 86km. Day three (December 30), man and machine will be racing a distance of 161km, stretching from Stilbaai to Struisbaai main beach.
Brothers Pierre and Philip Naudé - Photo Credit Heinrich Sauer
It’s called “the world’s toughest inflatable boat challenge” and this year, the 27th annual Trans Agulhas Challenge will once again test man, boat and machine. More than 30 teams have already signed up for the 2014 race, covering a distance of more than 600km in five days. Thirteen of these teams are first-time entrants. This gruelling race, hosted by the Agulhas Inflatable Boat Club (AIBC), is due to start on December 28 in Plettenberg Bay and set to end on January 1, 2015 in Strand.
Stages 4 and 5 takes place on December 31. The boats will head out from Struisbaai and check in at Die Damme, Pearly Beach, Uilenkraalsmond and Gansbaai before finishing in Hermanus. A night race takes place that evening, depending on the weather. Total distance covered on day 4 -135km. The final stage of the 2013/14 Trans Agulhas Challenge over 131km starts at 09:00 in Hermanus new harbour. The first teams should reach Strand on New Year’s Day at around 11:15, where the winners will be crowned. After each stage, a King of the Waves competition takes place at 13:00 at every overnight point. This spectacular event is always a huge crowd pleaser. For more information and the expected time of arrivals at the beach stops and overnight stops, go to the website www.trans-agulhas.com
PRIZE PURSE ANNOUNCED FOR SANLAM CAPE MILE Stillwater Sports, the organizers of the much anticipated Sanlam Cape Mile, are proud to announce that the prize purse for the inaugural event will be a whopping R50 300. Taking place at the Eikenhof Dam at the Grabouw Country Club in the Western Cape on 14 February 2015, the Sanlam Cape Mile is an exciting open water swim. Entrants can choose between an exhilarating mile (1.6km) and a refreshing 500m swim. “We are very excited to be able to offer a substantial prize purse for the inaugural event,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director Stillwater Sports. “Due to the superb support of event sponsors we are able to offer prize money to the top ten swimmers in the Elite Male and Female categories, while the school with the top five swimmers and the school with the most swimmers will also be awarded for their gallant efforts. We would especially like to encourage the participation of as many schools as possible as this is where the future of the sport lies. The Sanlam Cape Mile will be a well-organized, safe mass swim that is ideal of the whole family”. Speedo SA has also been appointed as the swim partner of the Sanlam Cape Mile, organizers, Stillwater Sports, announced.“The aim of the Sanlam Cape Mile is to create a special, well-organized, safe mass swim that is ideal for the whole family”, says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.
“The credibility and support of Speedo will assist tremendously in achieving this goal. Together with Speedo we look forward to building on the event year on year and believe that it will become a prominent fixture on the Cape sporting calendar”.