20 December 2017

20 December 2017

Published every Wednesday by CXpress 2006 (Pty) Ltd - PO Box 1449, Plettenberg Bay 6600 - 6 Park Lane, Plettenberg Bay - Tel: 044 533 1004 - Fax: 044 533 0852 Email: editor@cxpress.co.za / advertising@cxpress.co.za Web page: www.cxpress.co.za Printed by Group Editors

Time out!

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The year is speeding to its conclusion, with Cyril Ramaphosa at the reins and a Rand that’s heading skywards. But if you’re holding this final CXPRESS of 2017 in your hands, it means the real world has been left behind for a little while and for the next few weeks you should, in the words of Baloo, ‘forget about your worries and your strife’. This edition is packed with holiday activities and interesting articles, and we thank our advertisers for the support that enabled us to produce this bumper issue. Now go have yourselves a fabulously festive time in our paradise - the CXPRESS team will be back in the saddle on January 3.

Photo: Plett Tourism

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NEWS & VIEWS

20 December 2017

Notes on marine mammal strandings, and your part in alleviating the plight of our oceans Plett-based marine mammal expert DR GWENITH PENRY tells of a recent stranding in the bay, and possible causes for this ever-increasing phenomenon ECEMBER 14 is a date many of us will never forget; on this day two years ago, a beautiful killer whale (Orcinus orca) washed up dead on our beach and the necropsy revealed it had a stomach full of plastic.

This was most likely the cause of death - it was starving, but because the whale’s stomach was full, it couldn’t take in any food.

The story of this killer whale went global, as did numerous similar reports on the state of our oceans, suffocated by a terrifying amount of plastic.

May her story continue to remind us that small changes to our daily habits will reduce the amount of waste entering the ocean. Say no to single use plastic straws and water bottles, and always carry a reusable shopping bag and coffee mug with you.

These are simple but effective ways to alleviate the plight of our marine life.

Returning to present-day Plett, November and early December hailed a busy time in terms of marine mammal strandings around the bay.

Most of these have been Cape fur seal pups, and Frikkie van der Vyver - a Plett resident and seal researcher - provided an account [turn to page 10] on this phenomenon, informed by his PhD research on the subject.

--On Monday December 11, Ocean Safaris owner Marlon Baartman informed me of a dead dolphin on Keurbooms Beach, near the kelp gull colony. He spotted the animal during one of his marine mammal tourist excursions, and called me from his boat.

After a long walk down the

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beach, I eventually found and identified the adult female common dolphin (Delphinus delphis). This species usually occurs in large groups of several hundred, and in deeper water than the bottlenose and humpback dolphins regularly seen here.

Common dolphins feed on small pelagic fish, mainly sardine and anchovy, and there has been much activity in the bay recently with dolphins, sharks, and seabirds feeding on these shoals. This is normal for the summer and autumn months.

The first step when starting a necropsy is taking detailed measurements of the animal.

This was a 2.2m long female, indicating physical maturity. I then set about collecting specimens for genetic, dietary, and toxicology studies.

The dolphin was very fresh and had only been dead for a few hours. However, once the body cavity was opened up, it was clear that she was heavily pregnant and had already started producing milk.

The foetus was 82cm long, the size at which they are born, but this baby had sadly died quite a while ago and was beginning to disintegrate.

This sort of case is rare indeed, but according to vet and marine mammal scientist Dr Alejandra Vargas, there can

be several reasons for foetal anomalies and disintegration, such as endometritis (inflammation of the uterus lining due to infection), or a blockage in the cervix preventing the female from giving birth, eventually leading to the mother’s death from septicaemia.

Whale and dolphin strandings evoke profound emotions and seeing one washed up is heartbreaking. We want explanations and someone or something to blame for causing the demise of such a beautiful animal.

These animals often die from natural causes such as pregnancy complications, old age, illness or injury.

However, as our oceans become noisier and busier with more ship traffic, offshore mining and commercial fishing practises, it is critical that we record the frequency of strandings and identify species and areas most heavily impacted.

This will allow conservation managers, particularly those working in Marine Spatial Planning, to implement mitigation measures that reduce humanwildlife conflict and competition for resources, while ensuring that sufficient protected areas enable our marine life to take refuge and perform essential life history processes such as breeding, feeding, and resting.

THEN AND NOW: The killer whale that washed up on Plett’s beach in December 2015 with the plastic contained in its stomach, at left, which caused this animal’s death by starvation Photos: Gwenith S Penry

MUCH BETTER ALIVE: The stranded common dolphin before the necropsy revealed her dead calf, and common dolphins, below, alive and well and playing in the surf

NEWS & VIEWS

20 December 2017

CXPRESS

Plett N2 crash adds to seasonal road deaths

Two people died and 41 escaped unscathed after a head-on collision on the N2 just outside Plettenberg Bay last Thursday - YOLANDÉ STANDER reports

FATAL IMPACT: The driver of this Fiat Punto was killed instantly when crashing head-on into an Intercape bus, but by going to press the man’s identity was still being investigated Photo: Supplied

LETTENBERG Bay SAPS spokesperson captain Marlene Pieterse said the police were investigating a case of culpable homicide following the December 14 crash, which occurred near the Blue Hills Bird Farm on the national road between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, at about 10:20pm.

Pieterse said an initial investigation into the collision revealed that the incident involved an Intercape bus, travelling to Cape Town, and a white Fiat Punto with a GP registration, travelling in the opposite direction toward Plett.

It is alleged that the Punto veered into the lane of oncoming traffic and collided head-on with the bus. “The driver of the Fiat was alone in the vehicle and died on impact,� Pieterse said.

She added that the identity of the driver was still being established as the man had no identification in the vehicle. “There was no identity document or driver’s licence on the scene.�

Pieterse said the 36-yearold bus driver was seriously injured and transported to a local hospital, where he lat-

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er succumbed to his injuries. “The 41 passengers, the co-driver and trainee driver on the bus were treated for minor injuries on the scene.

The passengers were then transported to their destination by another bus.�

In the meantime, the Western Cape department of transport has been cracking down on reckless drivers after five people died on the province’s roads over the weekend.

According to provincial traffic chief Kenny Africa, 36 motorists had been arrested for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol between Saturday and Sunday; 10 of these were arrested on the Garden Route around Mossel Bay, and three in the George area.

A further five people were arrested in the Swellendam area; five in Worcester; five in Brackenfell; three in Caledon; three in Laingsburg; and two in the Somerset West area.

In addition traffic officers arrested three people for reckless and negligent driving in the province, two for being in possession of false documentation and two for overloading goods vehicles. “Breath testing was per-

formed on 4,157 drivers at 29 alcohol blitz roadblocks across the province.

The highest breath-alcohol reading was recorded in the Swellendam area. At 1.49mg of alcohol per 1,000ml of breath, this is over six times the legal limit of 0.24mg per 1,000ml,�

Africa said.

A total of 287 speeding offences were recorded and 600 fines totalling R857,690 were issued for a variety of reasons, ranging from driver to vehicle fitness violations. “The highest speeds recorded were 164km/h in a 120km/h zone on the N2 near Mossel Bay, 129km/h in an 80km/h zone in Somerset West, and 95km/h in a 60km/h zone, also on the N2 near Somerset West. “Drivers under the influence put their own lives and those of their passengers in danger, and they endanger the lives of other road users. If you’re drinking, don’t drive or walk,� urged Africa. “Help us create booze-free roads. If you have friends or family who still drive under the influence, speak to them before they get into trouble with the law.�

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

20 December 2017

Festive season messages from CX Country’s first citizens Looking back and planning ahead S we are closing this year, we know that the majority of South Africa’s people will be travelling, for families to come together and celebrate the 2017 festive season.

It is the time to thank our creator for the life he has given us, for his blessings, while keeping in mind the need to share with those who are less fortunate.

We also need to celebrate and plan for new opportunities that will be provided to us in 2018.

We need to acknowledge that 2017 was not an easy year to many families, particularly in our poor communities, given the negative impact of SA’s junk status on rising food prices, increasing fuel costs, job losses, sluggish economic growth, and many other challenges we have experienced.

Recently, our region was severely devastated by fires, lives were lost and properties were destroyed during this time. I salute everybody who participated in the fight against the fires, and who continue with the

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CHEERS TO YOU! Executive mayors of Plett and Knysna, Peter Lobese and Eleanore BouwSpies, welcome visitors and wish readers a splendid and safe festive season

rehabilitation processes.

The Western Cape is experiencing a severe drought, and the Bitou municipal area has also been declared a drought-stricken area. Bitou is under Stage 1 water restrictions and we encourage residents and visitors to protect our environment and to preserve this precious commodity: our water.

On behalf of Bitou Council, I would like to thank our residents, business community, municipal employees, councillors across the political affiliation, and all our communities.

It gives me pleasure to announce that Bitou now boasts six beaches with Blue Flag status, and our water quality received Blue Drop recognition. All the communities in Bitou are provided with quality services daily.

I would like to encourage you to support our law enforcement officers as they strive to maintain law and order. Please adhere to the rules of the road, do not exceed the speed limit, always look out for pedes-

trians, and please do not drink and drive.

Avoid drugs and similar substances, and help us in promoting and encouraging good conduct during this time of the year.

Importantly, we want to assure holidaymakers that we are pulling out all the stops to ensure quality services and a peaceful stay in Bitou.

We extend a warm welcome to all our visitors who decided to make Plettenberg Bay and its surrounding areas their holiday destination.

We would like you to enjoy your time with us, and I wish you and our residents a blessed festive season.

By working together with our people, we will be the best together and continue to build Bitou to be right up there with the top municipalities in this country.

I wish you all an enriching and merry Christmas, and quality time with your loved ones, friends, and extended families. May 2018 be a very prosperous new year for all.

I thank you Bitou mayor Peter Lobese

Greetings from Knysna! offer a very warm welcome to all those visiting Greater Knysna, and further extend an invitation to these visitors and all our residents to enjoy our area known for its vast natural beauty and friendly people.

This welcome includes the Knysna Municipality and its seven communities that make up Greater Knysna. As you and our communities already know, Greater Knysna is possibly the most beautiful and diverse region of the Garden Route and we are excited to share with you the many reasons why we live here.

It is my wish that you enjoy and rediscover our region, which is renowned for its appealing natural resources, including our estuary, mountains, farm land, forests, valleys, lakes, and beaches.

For our first-time visitors, allow me to explain

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sunglass boutique

that our municipal area stretches from the beautiful Swartvlei to the west of Sedgefield, right up to Brackenhill in the east. The magnificent Outeniqua Mountains in the north and Indian Ocean in the south form our boundaries.

Kick back and let your hair down while you play in our “garden”. Take a dip in our estuary and catch a wave on our many beaches, two of which (Brenton-onSea and Buffels Bay) have Blue Flag status.

Let the canopy of our indigenous forests keep you cool while you discover their beauty. Breathe in the clean, fresh air and I guarantee you that you will be reinvigorated.

We are proud of our Blue Flag recognised marine vessels that will take you out onto the estuary or through the magnificent Heads to watch the marine life frolic

in their own home.

Let’s not forget how spoilt for choice Greater Knysna is when it comes to culinary delights. I am hoping to bump into you during the festive season at one of our many world-renowned eateries open throughout the holiday season.

Whatever it is that you choose to do this holiday, have fun and enjoy every moment. To our visitors, I ask that you treat Greater Knysna as your home away from home while you recharge your batteries for the year ahead.

I thank all our residents for their continued involvement in making the Greater Knysna an inclusive, innovative, and inspired town. Have a blessed festive season and a prosperous 2018.

Warm festive regards Knysna mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies

NEWS & VIEWS

20 December 2017

CXPRESS

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Great-hearted trailie runs from George to Plett for #SoundstheCall cause OTHER City dweller Roelof Mostert is the founder of a unique event called the Seven Passes Ultra-marathon - a 135km run from Saasveld University in George to Plett via the iconic Seven Passes road, and then a combination of forestry tracks and paths.

“In 2015, after a pretty remarkable podium finish at the 65km Ultra-trail Cape Town, I started thinking of a couple of cool training runs I could do while on holiday along the Garden Route,” he recounts.

“With my cousin living in George and my final destination for December being Plett, I figured ‘why not run the 80-odd kays along the N2?’ But after consulting with my good friend James Frost, I was convinced to veer inland.”

Months of planning, route

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recces and marking finally secured Roelof’s course, and on December 19 of that year, at 12 midnight, he set off on a monumental 20hour endurance run with a small team of athletic mates.

Whereas that run raised funds for Plett’s Sabrina Love Foundation, Roelof had another cause in mind for his 2017 traverse, which set off in George at 12am on December 16.

“I decided to change the race format, with a portion of funds going towards aiding those affected by the fires that rocked the Garden Route recently (see #Sounds theCall block below), while also promoting the sport of ultra/trail-running.”

This new format will officially kick in next year, so watch this space for news of the inaugural Seven Passes Ultra. But last Sat-

urday, Roelof used the course for ‘speed assault’ purposes, also known as FKT (fastest known time) in running circles.

James Stewart of the Buco Adventure Racers and a handful of local runners joined Roelof on the last stretch of his epic run. The group was on hand to offer much-needed moral support to the exhausted runner en route to Plett Surf Lifesaving Club where a happy welcoming party included Steve Ritky, crews of the associated FMUs, and some of the brightly-coloured fire-fighting equipment used in their line of duty.

A huge shout-out goes to Roelof for the sweat, if not quite blood and tears, he shed in pursuit of creating awareness and raising funds for a cause very close to locals’ hearts.

WITH RESPECT: Roelof’s effort to support those affected by the recent Garden Route fires deserves a huge shout-out

A brief history of #SoundstheCall HE Plett community regularly faces situations where people require assistance and others wish to contribute time or funding in a structured manner, to ensure their efforts reach those they are trying to assist in an efficient and timeous manner. Plett People’s Purse (PPP) was set up to achieve this sans outside agenda.

When fires raged in the area on June 7, PPP found an urgent and immediate purpose and began to raise funds through various sources. The need for a non-political fund was duly proven, and a meeting

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held on June 12 provided purpose and direction, ultimately resulting in the formation of #SoundstheCall.

Its primary goal is ensuring that volunteer firefighters are adequately equipped at no cost to themselves inadequate equipment and maintenance thereof should not be firefighters’ concern.

Apart from lobbying for professional firefighters and supplying volunteers, secure sources of regular funding are always sought to enhance safety equipment and prevention strategies, and streamline emergency procedures.

Another priority is to con-

tinuously review communication procedures to build on the incredible example of the Joint Operation Centre established during the June fires, to enhance communication with all levels of government, and to demand accountability for funds raised through official channels.

If you would like to further the #SoundstheCall cause, email maggie@maggiezeelie.co.za for additional information or deposit directly into the MA Hurwitz Attorney Trust account at Nedbank Plettenberg Bay (code 109014), acc no 1090043813. Please use the reference STC.

ULTRARUNNING CAN BE LONELY: Roelof going solo, at left, before being joined by local runners as he neared his enddestination on Central Beach, at right - Photos: Martin Hurwitz

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NEWS & VIEWS

20 December 2017

Clean Plett Campaign sharpens its focus on keeping the town sparkling T’S been nearly five years since the humble efforts of a few Plett individuals turned into a project that continues to draw praise from both local and foreign visitors.

The Clean Plett Campaign has grown from strength to strength, and with a firm footing in the hearts of many Bitou residents and businesses alike, its momentum is sustained through generous donations of time and funds.

So it certainly looks as if this is one local non-profit organisation that’s here to stay. Sponsored by Beacon Isle KwikSpar, Clean Plett is overseen by the energetic and super-efficient Alison Bryant and David Scott, who manage the campaign’s two permanent employees.

The long road towards a clean Plettenberg Bay has been no walk in the park. However, with effective working methods now firmly in place and a clear line of communication with Bitou Municipality, the campaign runs like a well-oiled machine.

With a small group of volunteers, who meet every

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AWARENESS IS KEY: Although funds raised are mainly used to cover the wages of two permanent Clean Plett employees, the campaign recently sponsored car-guard uniforms to further spread awareness of its important mission, along with the brightly branded rubbish bins on main thoroughfares and routes frequented by tourists

Tuesday evening to target key problem areas, there is only so much that can be realistically achieved.

Public areas, the most obvious tourist routes, and Plett CBD are cleaned on a daily basis, but the urban and outlying areas can seldom be given the attention required, in light of limited time available.

With this in mind, the Clean Plett campaigners are making a strong appeal to both locals and visitors to Plett.

“If we all manage our own areas, such as the verge in front of your house, or even the empty plot across the road, or possibly a park within walking distance from

your home, this alone will make a noticeable difference,” says Bryant.

“It’s also worth familiarising yourself with the correct day for refuse and recycling collections, as leaving bags out a day or two beforehand results in seagulls ripping them open and the wind spreading the contents over a vast area.”

Visit www.bitou.gov.za/ waste-management for a refuse-removal schedule.

Mapping out the road ahead, the campaigners believe that the more people they can involve and make aware of litter, the tidier and more desirable Plett will become as a destination of choice.

“So let’s all do our bit and make a difference in keeping this slice of paradise sparkling. It’s simple, if we keep the areas around us litter free, the largest part of the problem is solved,” she concludes.

Contributions are gratefully received, as it helps pay the wages of the fulltime cleaners. Deposit donations into the Keep Plett Clean account at Nedbank Plett (code 198765), acc no 1096711974.

PROMOTION

20 December 2017

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CXPRESS

NEWS & VIEWS

20 December 2017

This teacher training centre truly benefits Plett graduates Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

La Luna

WO years ago, Plett Evangelical Fellowship (PEF) was approached by the Love Trust organisation to initiate a fully-accredited Early Child Development (ECD) training centre.

Although each student enrolled would benefit from a substantial subsidy, the task seemed daunting - until it was realised that Susan le Roux, one of the new members of the Fellowship, was in fact a past principal and highly experienced ECD practitioner.

“Within days, Susan was appointed as lecturer and facilitator of the Centre,” explains PEF founder and full-time pastor Anton van Stormbroek.

Sebastiaan van Wyk - a student in his gap year was appointed to manage the administration. And suddenly the project appeared a whole lot less daunting.

After attending lectures every Saturday morning

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JUST DESERTS: Freshly-certified ECD teachers celebrated the successful completion of their very useful course 10 days ago - from left with facilitator/lecturer Susan le Roux at back are Shereen Cloete, Roma Gongqo, Evelyn Mojapelo and Jody McCullum, with Liesle McCullum, Veronica Oraai, Emma van der Westhuizen and Yvonne Jansen in front

from 9am to 1pm except for school holidays, eight students have now successfully completed their ECD course, which is equivalent to an N4 qualification and gives them the opportunity to enter the market place with accreditation that warrants an income.

“On Sunday December

10 during a short graduation ceremony, family and friends gathered round to thank the Lord for providing this facility and also to celebrate the achievement of the students.

“Susan has proved to be a tremendous asset to the Plett community, not only seeing to the requirements of the curriculum

but also displaying a genuine interest in the wellbeing of her students,” beams pastor Anton.

Please take note that there will be an information meeting for interested students on Monday January 22 at 6pm in the St Christopher’s hall, just behind Checkers. Applicants must have a Matric certificate, and Maths Literacy is a preference.

• Anton and Dawn van Stormbroek started the Plett Evangelical Fellowship in their home in 1994. Anton was headmaster of Plett Primary School from 1991 to 2001, but presently serves as full-time pastor.

Dawn teaches Sunday school, and is an active member of the Music ministry and Caring committee. Email anton22@ telkomsa.net for more information on the course, and see the advert on page 24 for seasonal PEF services times.

Streets sports keep kids away from crime

Initiated by New Horizons Community Sport, the Youth Against Crime team recently did an outreach in Pinetrees, where the street was demarcated and blocked off to accommodate street netball, touch rugby, and street soccer. The event was very well received and the kids also got a full three-hour display of fun musical entertainment by local DJs. The New Horizons Community Sports team planned a series of similar events to keep local kids occupied during the long school holidays, and welcomed Bitou residents’ support in this quest to keep youngsters to steer clear of crime.

Pictured above are some of the players with Sector 2 manager, warrant officer James, at centre.

Oyster Fest and Knysna municipal crews share excitement over emerging event organisers NYSNA Municipality and organisers of the Pick n Pay Oyster Festival embarked on an Event Incubator initiative to encourage emerging event coordinators to improve their existing skills set and become successful in the world of events.

Says Oyster Fest manager Glendyrr Fick: “Criticism was received over the fact that the festival was not inclusive enough.

One of its key objectives is to create economic benefits for Knysna through various events, and this inspired the Knysna Event Incubator Programme concept.”

Adverts were placed in local publications and on

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BRIGHT FUTURE: Pictured with the keen Incubator Programme candidates are, from left, Knysna Municipality tourism coordinator Ntombekaya Sibali, Oyster Fest manager Glendyrr Fick, Oliver Mabukane, Bulelani Memani, Knysna mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies, Theodore Oelf, Anel de Bruyn, and municipal Economic Development manager Ilse van Schalkwyk

social media to make potential participants aware of the opportunity.

“We received 11 applications of which nine were

viable. Each candidate was interviewed and five selected from the group, the successful candidates being Oliver Mabukane,

Vuvu Ralushe, Anel de Bruyn, Theodore Oelf and Bulelani Memani,” explains Fick.

Knysna mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies says: “It is great to meet these event coordinators who will hopefully develop their skills and companies to take the festival and many other events into the future, ensuring an inclusive, innovative and inspired town. We can’t wait to see the impact of this programme on Oyster Fest 2018!”

The programme kicks off in January and will include accredited eventsmanagement training and mentoring support, as well as marketing and financial-management training.

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20 December 2017

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NEWS & VIEWS

20 December 2017

Spotlight on Robberg’s Cape fur seal colony Local marine mammal biologists FRIKKIE VAN DER VYVER and DANIELLE CONRY explain why seals have been washing up in numbers of late, and give guidance in terms of action to take when encountering one of these animals on the beach APE fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus) breed at some 40 mainland and island sites along the South African coastline.

The breeding colony on Robberg Peninsula is one of three on our south coast, where up to 7,000 seals may haul out at any given time.

Every year during the pupping season, usually from mid-November to

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end-January, a number of pups are washed ashore on Plett’s beaches after rough sea conditions.

When strong easterly winds coincide with spring hightides, big swells roll into the bay and hit the peninsula’s eastern side, washing newborn pups off the rocks.

Still unable to swim efficiently, these little pups soon exhaust themselves

trying to get back onto the rocks. Depending on the currents, some get swept out to sea and drown or become shark food, while many others wash ashore.

On local beaches - mainly Robberg, but sometimes as far as Nature’s Valley - they are often spotted by members of the public or local NGOs, who report them to relevant beach manageNO CLUBBING: Many cute seal pups like these have been washing up dead on Robberg Beach, but the three found alive were rehabilitated and reunited with their parents on the peninsula Photos: Frikkie van der Vyver

ment authorities.

Unfortunately, by the time most pups wash ashore they have already drowned, but a few lucky ones are sometimes found alive and taken to Tenikwa Wildlife and Rehabilitation Centre for shortterm treatment of dehydration and minor wounds.

These pups cannot survive on their own, and need to be returned to the colony as soon as possible where they may have a chance to reunite with their mothers.

Since November, over 30 pups have washed ashore on Robberg Beach, three of which were found alive.

Through collaborative efforts local researchers collected various samples for ongoing research at Port Elizabeth Museum, and live pups received uniquely numbered plastic flipper tags prior to treatment for dehydration at Tenikwa.

As soon as they showed good signs of recovery, they were released back at the colony by Offshore Adventures.

This project forms part of a larger study led by PE Museum, which aim to assess the success of seal pup rescue and rehabilitation efforts. By tagging stranded pups, researchers track the survival of released individuals, and determine whether they were able to reunite with their mothers.

Adult seal carcasses are also often found ashore; on November 7, a large adult male carcass was found on Solar Beach. The cause of death in adults may range from disease to starvation, predation or even interactions with fishing operations, and is of great interest to marine mammal scientists currently focussing on this species.

Samples are routinely collected from adult seals as

part of various collaborative research projects studying the impact of fisheries and environmental changes on seal mortality, population demographics, diet and foraging behaviour.

This is important in relation to the cessation of commercial seal hunting in South Africa by the early 1900s, the subsequent boom in fishing technology and fishing efforts, major environmental changes since the 1980s, and the steady increase in seal numbers on Robberg Peninsula since its re-colonisation around the late 1990s.

Unravelling these questions may one day inform the decisions of management authorities, based on scientific advice.

Fortunately, Plett hosts a number of experienced biologists who act as agents for the PE Museum to deal with seal stranding situations effectively and collect relevant scientific data.

All dissections and sampling procedures are carried out under research permits issued annually to the PE Museum by the Department of Environmental Affairs, and relatively good relations have now been established with Bitou Municipality and CapeNature to allow the collection of samples from seal carcasses washed ashore on Plett’s beaches.

Unfortunately, news about stranded seals does not always reach the local stranding network in time, resulting in missed opportunities - not only to rescue and treat injured animals, but also to collect valuable samples from fresh carcasses.

This is where readers can make a valuable contribution. Please report any seals on the beach, dead or alive, directly to the Plettenberg

Bay Stranding Network on 072 817 7979, Offshore Adventures on 082 829 0209, CapeNature on 044 533 2125, or Bitou Beach Control on 044 501 3125.

The stranding coordinator can immediately activate the response team and notify the relevant management authorities who deal with carcass removal.

The next danger periods for potential pup strandings are December 30 to January 6, January 16-21, January 29 to February 5, and February 15-21. If swells over 3m from the east occur over these dates, there may be more pup stranding events, and adult seal carcasses may also wash ashore.

When coming across a live seal on the beach Do not touch the seal, as they are potentially dangerous and can inflict a serious bite, even the pups. Keep dogs away. Do not pour water on the seal. Do not chase the seal back into the water.

Seals often come ashore to rest, and are not always injured or in need of rescue.

Phone one of the numbers above and wait near the animal until an experienced biologist arrives with a permit to assess the condition of the animal and determines the necessary action.

Note that all seals are protected under the Seabirds and Seals Protection Act of 1973, and it is an offence to disturb them.

When finding a dead seal on the beach Report the stranding and its location as above. Do not touch the carcass, as seals can carry diseases transmittable to humans, and rotting carcasses, harmful bacteria.

If possible, wait near the carcass until a member of the response team arrives with a collection permit.

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NEWS & VIEWS

20 December 2017

Ball-sense awarded at Fab Squad’s year-end bash ETBALL ruled during the first weekend in December, when the Bitou-based Fabulous Squad Club held its yearend awards ceremony at LM in Plett. Both the junior and senior teams came out in style for this night of the stars, when they received their hard-earned gold cups and certificates.

Says convenor Adam van Rhyner: “The ladies did not disappoint this season, with spectacular performances in our lo-

N SAY ‘FAAAAB!’ Upcoming and Most Improved Player were just some of the awards handed over by Fabulous Squad Netball Club’s Adam van Rhyner, at centre in white, this month

cal netball league landing them these rewards.”

He thanks Cameron Attwood, Andries Trahms (Smhart Alarms), Plett Tourism, Luiz da Fonseca (LM in Plett), Beacon Island Resorts, Island Diner, Maria’s Taxi Services, Formosa Primary School, Rosie and Marius Jafta, Lettie Terblanche, and Cecelia Theodore for their support.

“Without you, this event would not have happened.

A big thank you also goes

to the most inspiring ladies who graced us with their presence, Yuline Jafta and guest of honour Beaudene van Rhyner.”

Juniors awarded on the night were centre Jamie Lee Daries, wing attack Chloe Dicksen, wing defence Leatitia J Mase, goal attack Alexis Witbooi, goal shooter Johneline Scholtz, goal defence Sydney Windvogel, and goalkeeper Suney Ruiters.

Senior honours went to centre Miralde Groe-

newald, wing attack Jessica Corneelse, wing defence Carolicia Luiters, goal attack Nolene Koopman, goal shooter Shaan Louw, goal defence Mari Astrid Arendse, and goalkeeper Babalwa Gqotole.

Additional awards were bestowed upon Yunine Jafta as Upcoming Player and Brucia L Booysen as Most Improved Player.

Congratulations to them and to the management of Fabulous Squad NC for a successful year.

Black-belt pioneers do Bitou’s martial arts fraternity proud

Bitou resident Sensei Reynard Westraad was a veritable ground-breaker when he established the local Sports Karate Academy (SKA) in June 2016. Both SKA Plettenberg Bay and the town’s Goju Ryu Karate Do crew form part of the Plettenberg Bay Martial Arts Academy, allowing students to compete in kick-boxing as well as traditional karate. On November 25, Sempai Gerald Bleeker was the first SKA instructor to receive his Senior Black Belt in kick-boxing, and Aiden Trahms, 13, the first SKA student to receive his Junior Black Belt in the same discipline. Being a bit of an all-rounder, Aiden was also the first youngster from the Plettenberg Bay Martial Arts Academy to receive his Junior Protea colours in Sports Martial Arts recently - an incredibly impressive achievement! Aiden is pictured at left on that memorable occasion with ISKA South Africa vicechairman Shihan Phil Anderson, and above with his proud kick-boxing instructors, Sempai Bleeker, left, and Sensei Westraad at centre.

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NEWS & VIEWS

20 December 2017

The Mungo Mill - where contemporary textile design meets art of traditional weaving N Friday November 17, Plett’s Mungo Mill crew celebrated its official opening - an overwhelming occasion for everyone at Mungo, as it hailed the culmination of many moons worth of planning and practical travails.

The building has been selffunded by Mungo and was conceptualised years ago. Ground was finally broken and building started in January 2017.

Now, as the year draws to a close and but a month since opening its doors, the new Mungo Mill has already become an aesthetically-pleasing Plett landmark, towering proudly over the landscape at Old Nick Village on the N2 just east of town.

Says Mungo’s Dax Holding: “Not only is The Mill our thriving new hub of production, but it’s also the embodiment of our commitment to transparency in what we make and do.

“We strive to shape and uphold the standards of sustainable manufacturing. We challenge the idea that value is a product of price. We don’t compromise on production methods or cost of raw materials when it comes to producing a quality product.

“We believe strongly that what we create, and the manner

O

in which we create it, will filter down to the end-user and help improve the world we live in.”

The new Mungo Mill was designed by architect Andrea Cristoforetti. Where at all possible, it was built using materials and contractors local to the area. One of the building’s most distinguishable characteristics is a wooden slatted ‘skin’ that wraps around an elevated walkway along the front.

This unique feature was inspired by the overlapping warp threads and angles seen on the heddles of a loom. The curved façade also emulates fabric folds.

Visitors enter through a set of arched glass doors and can walk through the production process, from weaving to CMT (Cut, Make & Trim). A large, central, double-volume room houses a collection of 16 restored looms from different weaving eras, which can be seen from an elevated viewing deck that weaves from the walkway into The Mill.

Outside, a water feature snakes around the entrance and underneath the ‘skin’ of the building.

“Looking to the future, we have already planned a second phase to house all our warping equipment, as well as a museum that will showcase the history of

WORKING WEAVING WONDER: Images on this page show the active interior and delightful exterior of the new Mungo Mill at Old Nick Village

weaving from preindustrial revolution to present day,” says Dax. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience first-hand The Mungo Mill at Old Nick Village this season. See the advert on page 15 for contact details.

Praise from the press • The building itself is extraordinary - a large open space with

curved walls and exposed beams.

From the inside, the shape and materials (face-brick, steel and wood) give it the feeling of a ship - something ready to take off and explore the world. Outside, the surface is made of woven wooden strips, designed to replicate the folds of fabric. A moat runs around the front and from a viewing platform visitors can watch the journey of the cloth.

- Sunday Times • The opening of the new Mungo Mill is exciting for the area, and a significant moment in Old Nick’s and Plettenberg Bay’s history. We are excited to see the growth and impact made by the historical buildings that comprise Old Nick Village, and in particular the impact the mill and its museum will have on the tourism industry. - Plett Tourism

Fabulous fabric of Africa now available on Plett doorstep XCEPTIONAL, original African cloth steeped in tradition is available from MakeAfrica at Old Nick Village.

“Says Village co-founder Janet Holding: “We supply a wide selection of the wellknown cotton called Shweshwe. Unique printing methods give distinction to the patterns and colours. Used in traditional African ceremonies, in recent years it has also become trendy with young African clothing designers.

“We are proud to stock pure cotton ‘Vlisco’ Java prints.

Created by top fabric stylists, these unique designs service the elite clothing market in West Africa. Wildly colourful and exciting, they conjure up the vibrancy of the African di-

E

CONTINENTAL TREASURES: Keita and Janet pore over some of the colourful beads that complement cloth and prints stocked by MakeAfrica at Old Nick Village on the Plett N2

aspora,” she says.

Traditional West African weaving, carried out by men on simple narrow looms, is not easy to come by. Mud cloth,

patterned with colour-fast natural dyes and raffia Kuba cloth, form part of the selection in store at MakeAfrica.

“Sometimes a trader will ap-

pear with irresistible piles of cloths, hand-spun and dyed strips sewn together to form a wrap or curtain - or who knows what!” says Janet.

She further explains that Kente cloth - also called ‘chief’s cloth’, as it has been used by and wrapped around Ghanaian chiefs for centuries - was previously woven with silk unravelled from European fabrics, but is now woven with bright Viscose.

Known as poor man’s silk, these large and colourful Viscose pieces make a strong statement commensurate with high status.

“Come and have a look!” invites Janet. “Fabrics form only part of all the treasures on offer at MakeAfrica.”

• See the advert on this page for contact details.

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20 December 2017

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Local registered counsellor for REAL debt counselling and COMPLETE peace of mind. Phone today for a FREE consultation with no obligations.

Gerhard van Huyssteen is your LOCAL registered Debt Counsellor (NCRDC#778) Cell: 071 332 2341 Tel: 044 533 2805 Email: plett101@gmail.com

A new ERA wil soon dawn in Plet !

If you are energetic, motivated, enthusiastic, love people and property and are ready to embark on a career where you write your own paycheck, join ERA and become a true Property Professional. For more information on this great business opportunity -

Contact Empie - 082 787 6654

Properties

BUSINESS

20 December 2017

Plettenberg Bay

Sotheby’s Plett property agents rake in national accolades T HREE Plettenberg Bay estate agents and the local office received national awards at the Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty national convention recently held at Fairmont Zimbali in Durban.

Hein Pretorius, owner/ broker and principal, won the Agent of the Year award for the highest turnover in residential properties, and runner up for farm properties.

Hein has consistently been one of South Africa’s top agents and has sold many of the most expensive properties in Plett.

Desré Reck received third place in development sales in both turnover and units sold. Desré is the onsite agent at Thulana Hill and attributes her success to the exceptional value for money the complex offers.

Elbie Pama received third place nationally for

my team, and take great pleasure in their success.

It is quite an achievement for agents in a small town to compete with their city counterparts - and come out triumphantly.”

If you are interested in property, please contact an agent on 044 533 2529 and see the adverts on the cover and pages 3, 18, and 19 for listings and additional information.

WINNERS ONE AND ALL: Sotheby’s Plett owner/broker Hein Pretorius with his impressive Agent of the Year award, is flanked by able team members Elbie Pama, left, and Desré Reck, both of whom scored podium positions once again at the Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty national convention

Why the erf you buy is as important as the home OW important is the stand on which a house is built? One might assume, taking location into account, that the bigger the stand, the more the buyer would pay for it.

Gerhard Kotzé, MD of the RealNet estate agency group, says that this is not always the case.

“Depending on buyer requirements and lifestyles, the ‘usability’ of a stand - sometimes also called a plot or an erf -

H R

farm properties. Elbie has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in lifestyle properties.

The Sotheby’s International Realty Plettenberg Bay office also won the award for best online presence from Private Property for excellent photography, property descriptions, and attention to detail.

Says Hein: “Congratulations to Desré, Elbie and our team for their hard work and dedication.

Both Elbie and Desré have received awards before and this just highlights their commitment to their work.

“It is great to know that we have the highest calibre of successful professionals working right here in Plett. I am proud of

frequently outweighs the importance of its size when it comes to calculating its value.”

A house situated on a large piece of property that is on a very steep hillside might have less appeal and also sell for less than a similar house on a smaller, level stand, if what most buyers in that area want is space for outdoor entertaining, children, pets or gardening.

Similarly, in a suburb where all the homes are

on level stands, the ones with the biggest stands may no longer command the highest prices these days, because of the steep increases in municipal property rates in recent years, and because large grounds usually cost more to maintain and secure.

“The latest FNB figures show that these considerations, combined with the rising cost of land itself and densification due to urbanisation, have reduced the average stand

size in SA’s urban areas by almost half over the past 40 years, to the current 552m2,” adds Kotzé.

At all times, bear in mind though that buyer preferences can change, and that a home set on a stand that is unusually big or small for the area, or oddly shaped, could become difficult to sell in the future.

• Extract from article at www.hometimes.co.za see the RealNet advert on page 17 for contact details.

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20 December 2017

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Fuel for thought… energy prices bite as they climb the clockwork ladder There are informative statistics on the ongoing impact of petrol and diesel price increases on our inflation rate, but the fundamental overall effect on the cost of living is more or less unfathomable - STUART MURRAY reports HE recent hike (petrol up 71 cents/litre, diesel 57 cents/litre) takes us to five consecutive months of price increases. The unsavoury fact is that the cost of fuel has doubled in a decade.

As the international price of crude oil rises, the costs of our goods and services rise with it. Everything connected to our daily lives is influenced.

We had a fairly lengthy and welcome breather after the international price of oil fell off the barrel in 2014 - slumping from just over $140 a barrel in 2008, and inexorably slithering up to the 2014 cliff edge.

A year later it sat at a modicum below $40 a barrel. What a break for consumers - and for energyhungry economies!

However, those golden days were relatively shortlived; in 2015, Brent Crude bottomed at slightly below $40 a barrel. The oil cartel pledged to put a hold on production, but oil demand couldn’t be contained and up again, slowly, the price began its skyward ascent. It now sits at $64 a barrel.

Distribution is a major perhaps the major - factor in the cost of goods. South Africa is a huge country and the longest on the African continent. Due in part to neglect, corruption and mismanagement, rail transport has waned over the past decade, leaving road haulage top of the bulk transport industry.

T

According to the Road Freight Association, volumes have grown more than 20% in the past decade. Today, around 88% of all freight is transported by road.

Transnet, nevertheless, has been catching up and aims to have grabbed 35% of the market by 2018/19, insisting that rail transport is 75% cheaper than road.

The State-owned company claims that it has been removing 525,000 trucks from the roads each year as part of its “market demand” strategy.

‘The era of cheap fuel made it difficult for rail to oust road in the transport sector, but the gap is beginning to narrow. Fuel is around 40% of the cost of running a truck.’

However, the transport and supply chain management department at the University of Johannesburg argues that road transport is more reliable than rail, even if it is more expensive. “People are prepared to pay more for better service,” it says.

The era of relatively cheap fuel made it difficult for rail to oust road in the transport sector. But the gap is beginning to narrow. Fuel is around 40% of the cost of running a truck.

Price comparisons vary in terms of commodity; certain cargo categories, such as bulk minerals, are cheap-

er to transport by rail. In the long run, though, it all impacts on our cost of living.

Oil, however, is something of a honeypot. As fuel at the pump (petrol and diesel) it attracts around 10 different levies on its way to your vehicle’s tank. About 40% of what we pay goes to fuel tax.

Then the Road Accident Fund takes the next heaviest chunk, followed by transport, storage and secondary distribution, wholesale margin, excise duty… and so on.

The sad fact is that we have no control or influence over the international oil price and thus are a captive audience. “But what about the contribution by Sasol and PetroSA?” you might ask.

Precise details on the volume of oil from coal produced by Sasol are difficult to find - some estimates put it at around 19% of our liquid fuel requirements.

PetroSA’s contribution to our liquid fuel requirements are reckoned to be around 7%, from its oil/gas field off Mossel Bay. Take note that Sasol’s coal-to-gas production is not all for combustion. The group also produces a wide range that includes LPG, paraffin, paints, lubricants, and oils - even sun creams and perfumes.

Its contribution to the national fuel needs is important in volume terms, but due to a deal with the National Party government at its inception, it enjoys Import Parity Pricing, i.e. it is enabled to charge

for its products based on whatever is the reigning international price; not its own production price.

So, basically, no relief for

the fiscus, or the motorist at the petrol pump.

• Stuart Murray (stuartmurray758@gmail.com) is a former senior assistant

editor of Financial Mail and co-founder, editor, and CEO of Finance Week.

He is retired and lives in Plettenberg Bay.

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PROMOTION

20 December 2017

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CXPRESS

BUSINESS

20 December 2017

Interesting facts and figures on Plett Polo’s financial contribution OLO attracts 250 international and national tourists annually, all high spenders. The 2017 financial contribution is estimated to be between R20million and R22-million.

Direct Employment • Grooms: 80 low season, 100 high season • Domestic staff: 25 low season, 50 high season • Drivers: 10 • Farm labourers: 50 year round • Casual labour: 20 at the club over the season • Ambulance staff daily for 80 days Equine Service Financial Support Polo ponies in training in

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2017 have been 400 and 700 during low and high season respectively. Other contributors include feed suppliers (concentrated feed and roughage), farrier services, vets, grooms, physiotherapists, and chiropractors - totalling the estimated spend on equine services at R11.4-million.

• Polo’s contribution to Plett Tourism services is estimated at a restaurant spend of R2.5-million and accommodation at R3.125million.

• Data is still being collected on the money spent on tourist activities in the region, such as flights, car rental, bungee jumping,

STRUT YOUR STUFF: The annual Plett Pony parade is one of the more public events of Plett’s Polo fraternity, but behind the scenes a huge amount of cash is pumped into the local economy plus employment opportunities

canopy tours, fishing trips, boat excursions, shark-cage diving, etc.

Social Upliftment and Training Plett is a training hub for grooms, the top of whom during off-season travel in-

ternationally and earn foreign currency.

It is also the training ground for young Springbok players with annual international polo training camps and national training clinics. The country’s

Perspective View Typical New Block Layout

Properties

Plettenberg Bay

Ground Floor Plan Unit Type A

First Floor Plan Unit Type A

Ground Floor Plan Unit Type B

First Floor Plan Unit Type B

largest polo area, Plett serves as epicentre for South Africa’s professional polo players.

Plett is also the training ground for polo ponies of which the cream of the crop is prepared for the ex-

port market, on average six horses a year.

Even though this is just six horses, they are of an extremely high rand value.

Currently South Africa is under travel restrictions, which once lifted this number of exported horses will grow.

So when you converge on Kurland on December 29, you’re not just watching polo; you are supporting an industry, adding to the improvement of our national side, and securing jobs for a multitude of people.

• See the article on the back page and the advert on page 23 for more details.

BUSINESS

20 December 2017

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Outlook 2018: A great year for buyers and investors EGATIVITY seems to have become the fashion in SA’s real estate industry over the past few months, but while there will be challenges, the property market is not going to “fall off a cliff ” in 2018, says Berry Everitt, CEO of the Chas Everitt International property group.

“The simple reason for this is real estate’s remarkable and well-documented ability to re-balance and create opportunities for both consumers and property practitioners in virtually any economic or political circumstances,” he says.

“For example, when economic growth is slow as it has been in South Africa for the past few years, or when interest rates rise and it becomes difficult for new homebuyers to obtain cred-

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luxurious properties.

“Indeed, I foresee that there are going to be some amazing opportunities available for those able and willing to look beyond South Africa’s immediate political and economic woes to the next three to five years, just as there were after the Global Financial Crisis in 2008/09.”

As a group, he says, Chas Everitt International is expecting property price inflation to remain low in 2018 (except perhaps in certain isolated hotspots), interest rates to remain relatively stable, and home loans to be readily available - albeit under strict credit-granting guidelines.

Buyers with cash will nevertheless be in the strongest position.

“As for demand, we ex-

‘My hope is that the worst of public and private sector corruption and incompetence, that has robbed so many ordinary South Africans, has now all been uncovered’ it, there is usually a spike in demand for rental homes, opening up opportunities for buy-to-let investors and property developers, as well as estate agencies with a track record of good property management and rent collection.

“At the moment, South Africa is also experiencing rapid youth urbanisation which is further fuel for this trend.”

Everitt says the market is obviously going to be affected by business and consumer confidence levels, and that these will differ regionally and from area to area, “but overall, 2018 will be a buyers’ year - and buying is what the smart investors and consumers will be doing, whether they are first-time buyers getting a toehold in the market, buy-to-let investors building up their portfolios or existing homeowners upgrading to bigger or more

pect that lifestyle will continue to drive flourishing sales in top-end security estates, and that there will also be very strong demand at the low end of the market in the R400,000 to R600,000 price range, driven by first-time buyers and by investors purchasing buy-to-let-properties, as well as repeat buyers who are scaling down to smaller homes that require less maintenance and are cheaper to run.

“Due to the increasing pace of urbanisation, we also foresee more densification taking place wherever this is possible in high-demand, central suburbs that are close to all amenities and well-served by public transport.

“Developers will once again be on the hunt for older homes on large stands that they can rezone for multi-unit sectional ti-

tle and cluster projects in areas such as Fourways, Rivonia, Houghton and Rosebank in Johannesburg, for example, or Brooklyn and Lynnwood in Pretoria, Durban North, and many of the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town.”

Thirdly, Everitt says, the group anticipates that an increasing number of foreign buyers with cash to spend will take the opportunity now to purchase luxury South African real estate at a “discount”, in order to make the most of a market upturn after 2019, if not before.

“According to the latest Global Wealth Report from Credit Suisse, some 2.3-million new dollar millionaires have been created over the past 12 months, taking the world total to 36-million.

“And because of the weather, scenery and lifestyle on offer, South Africa is one of the top 20 destinations in the world for such individuals to buy a second home.

“What is more, as a member of the global Leading Real Estate Companies of the World network, we have ourselves seen international interest continuing to rise steadily in recent times, almost irrespective of the day-to-day political and economic news that consumes so much of our attention locally.”

As to that news, he says, and the daily evidence of public and private sector corruption and incompetence that has robbed so many ordinary South Africans of their chance at a better life, his personal hope is that the worst of it has now all been uncovered, “and that we can now focus our collective efforts on cleaning up the mess and realising our country’s immense potential”.

• Visit www.chaseveritt. co.za for more information and see the advert on page 5 for current listings.

We, at PG Glass Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, would like to take the opportunity to thank all our customers for your loyal support during 2017! Without your patience and understanding, we would not have been able to render our world-class service to you.

Happy holidays and have a blessed Festive season!

Please note that we will be closing on Friday, 22 December 2017 and re-opening on Monday, 08 January 2018.

We are however available for any emergency (Building glass and Automotive glass)and can be contacted on the following after-hour numbers:

PG Glass National Call centre 0860 03 03 03 Jacques van der Merwe 061 450 8299 We serve you from Hoekwil to Tsitsikamma!

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CXPRESS

20 December 2017

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

20 December 2017

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CXPRESS

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

20 December 2017

Good reads for young and old now available for Christmas baskets LITTLE LIZARD LIKED: Maxi Witte and the cover of her illustrated children’s book

Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za

AXI Witte has contributed a number of poems to CXPRESS over recent years, the latest of these being ‘A Stranger Cried in my Arms Today’, which was published a few weeks after the June fires.

Lighter rhymes included titles like ‘Barking Dogs’ and ‘Smiling Dogs’, which pointed to a keen eye for the beauty in our world and its four-legged creatures, specifically.

So it was no great surprise when Plett resident Maxi contacted CXPRESS a fortnight ago to tell of a children’s book that flowed from her pen this year.

“It might interest you to know that I have written and illustrated - and self-published - a book for children, which is written in

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PLETT ON FIRE: This marvellous coffee table book containing 50 pages of original pictures has just landed in Plett back from the printers, and is the perfect Christmas gift as well as a great way to remember the fires. It will be available at various shops around town at a cost of R495 and all proceeds will go to the local FMUs via #SoundstheCall (also see the story on page 5).

rhyme and verse. The book is selling so well that I am quite in awe!” she laughed.

“Entitled ‘The Little Lizards who lost his Tail’, the story tells of how he lost it and his quest in trying to find it again. It takes place in the bush, and involves different animals he meets along the way.

“I have had lovely reports on ‘The Little Lizard’ from a variety of folk - even from two men in their 60s, one of whom said he could not put the book down, and the other who said that he had a tear in his eye.”

So whether you’re in your first or second childhood and are interested in laying your hands on Maxi’s book, email maxiwit@absamail.co.za to find out how.

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

20 December 2017

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CXPRESS

20 December 2017

Cinderella’s school report

INTERVAL

We use a really strong sunblock when we go to the beach with the kids.

It’s SPF 80... which means you squeeze the tube and a sweater comes out.

The usual question...

AIRY Godmother’s School for Girls.

Name of Pupil: Cinderella. Age: 17.

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Dear Baron Hardup, Yet again, Cinderella has fallen asleep at her desk.

That makes it the third time this week, and the 21st time this month.

(And she snores so loudly! No husband she might eventually win for herself will find that particularly charming).

This really must stop.

Clearly, she is not getting enough sleep. But why?

As her personal counsellor, I felt it incumbent upon me to find out. This is why I am writing to you.

Having spoken at length to Cinderella (when she woke up), I fear that we are dealing with a much bigger problem than simple insomnia.

I suspected as much when she said that the usual cause of her tiredness was the vast amount of castle-work - scrub-

bing, cleaning, polishing buttons, etc. - which, she claims, her delightful sisters force her to do.

But when she told me the reason why she was especially tired today... Well, I was left in no doubt.

My dear sir, it is my unpleasant duty to tell you that Cinderella is, to put it bluntly, stark raving bonkers.

What other explanation can there be when a girl claims that she didn’t get to bed until after midnight because she had to hop all the way home from a glittering ball wearing one glass slipper, due to the coach she arrived in having turned into a giant pumpkin!

Now I ask you... What a whopper!

I’m sorry, but I think we should meet to discuss some treatment for the girl. I only wish I could wave a magic wand and sort her out myself.

Yours despairingly, Cinderella’s teacher

Remember the Thatchers?

HIS anecdote was told about Denis Thatcher waiting for a car to take him to Paddington just after his wife, Margaret, got into Downing Street.

The car was late. So, running late himself and annoyed, Mr Thatcher got the tube, only just catching his train.

The only seats available were designated ‘reserved from Reading [a large town on the Thames and Kennet rivers in southern England]’ so he decided to take one of those, at least until Reading.

At Reading Station

T

a medical person who was looking after a group of people who all suffered from serious attacks of confusion, got on the tube.

Their carer had counted them on the platform and re-counted them in their reserved seats, hoping not to have left any behind.

“One, two, three…” all very simple until he got to the unexpected Denis Thatcher.

“Who the heck are you?” the medical carer asked.

“Me? I’m the Prime Minister’s husband.” “... four, five, six…”

As a little girl climbed onto Santa’s lap, he asked her the usual question: “And what would you like for Christmas?”

The child stared at him open mouthed and horrified for a minute, then gasped: “Didn’t you get my text?”

Traditional dinner...

A little girl is in the kitchen watching her mother prepare for the following day’s Christmas dinner.

She asks: “Mommy, can I please have a cat for Christmas?”

Her mother replies: “No honey, you’ll have turkey just like the rest of us.”

ENTERTAINMENT

20 December 2017

Sound advice for undiscovered artists

WORD AND VOCAL FLAIR: Khanyisa Poswa is a multi-talented Bitou local, who strongly advises up-and-coming performers to make use of the Tshisa Talent platform to advance their artistry

Words & photos: Sinalo Ngcola

IDDEN talents there’s a whole lot of them, just waiting to be discovered in the town of Plettenberg Bay. But platforms for exposure are not widely provided and many of our young artists have nowhere to showcase themselves.

Says KwaNokuthula local Khanyisa Poswa, who is currently studying at Nelson Mandela University in Port Elizabeth: “The amount of talent we have in Plettenberg Bay is unbelievable. I just wish that more people had

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the opportunity to make their dreams come true.”

Some of Khanyisa’s talents include singing and writing, and she is also involved in her University’s drama club, where she serves as secretary.

Though many of Bitou’s schools host talent shows, which is exciting for the kids who compete in them, these budding young artists seldom have the funds to take it further. So more than often, this is where it ends, and the talented youngsters find themselves doing other jobs while waiting for an opportunity to arrive.

Providing a bright ray

of hope, Tshisa Talent is a Plett-based organisation that allows members of all Bitou communities to enter their annual competition and win a very grand prize.

Several rounds lead to the Tshisa Talent finale, and the winner walks away with the opportunity of being groomed as an artist and to learn the basics of handling the business side of artistry. The Tshisa crew also helps to promote the winners and finalists.

Workshops are facilitated by industry experts to transfer these skills to local artists, and also serves

Skeletons in his camera…

as a wonderful platform for them to share their own experiences with each other.

Khanyisa is a firm proponent of the work Tshisa Talent does, and says: “Even though Plettenberg Bay may have only one public talent show a year, this should not make you feel less obliged to enter.

“You should always grab the chance of sharing your talents, as that is why you were blessed with it!”

• Visit www.tshisatalent. co.za to find out more about talented locals and how you can support their efforts in the arts.

Plett PhotoFUNatics (find out more on page 9 of the November 1 edition issue at www.cxpress. co.za) recently chose this photo

by Marty Reddering as the top pic in their Senior section, with Annabel Clapham having won the Junior selection of November’s Halloween theme. Says Marty: “The photo was taken at the Skeleton Coast, slightly inland, one late afternoon with a howling wind skimming sand off the dune’s top.” The club’s next theme, entries for which close by mid-January, is a cell phone photo challenge. PhotoFUNatics convenor Derek Rushton wishes club members and CXPRESS readers all the best over the festive season, and safe travels if heading out of town. Like the Plett PhotoFUNatics Facebook page, where you’ll find the top five examples of members’ latest pics and club updates.

Photo: Marty Reddering

Keurhoek dancers let rip in Rheenendal IDS from Keurhoek turned up the heat at a dance-off held at the Rheenendal Primary School field on Friday December 15.

After two days of auditions the kids, ranging in age from eight to 18 years, were ready to strut their stuff for the chance to take home the crown.

At the judges’ table were two international dancers and a Rheenendal resident with a background in theatre, watching just over 20 individuals and seven groups perform from 2-5pm.

Ten kids and three groups took home certifi-

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HIT THAT PERFECT BEAT: Infinity B-boys were the stars of last weekend’s Keurhoek dance-off - from left are Zandre, Bradley, AJ, Denre, and Samich

cates and prizes, but each dancer had a blast, and the spectators enjoyed themselves as well.

Well done to winners Nessa, 7, Nathan, 9, Lee-

Ann, 10, Carlen, 11, and to the stars of the show, Infinity B-Boys.

Says convenor Shireen Singer: “The dance competition was organised

in the hopes of giving Keurhoek kids something to do during their December holidays. The intention is to build up the children’s promising artistic skill and ability over time, while offering them a fun outlet for creative expression.

“With the first danceoff such a success, we’re aiming to host a dance workshop in the first quarter of 2018. If local residents involved in the performing arts world would like to support the Keurhoek kids, please email danskeurhoek@ gmail.com to discuss the possibilities.”

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Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

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CXPRESS

SOCIAL SCENE

20 December 2017

RECONCILIATION DAY IN HARKERVILLE: Clockwise from below, ‘Les Lads, brightened the Harkerville Saturday Market with their smiles on December 16 from left are Matthew Betty, Ethan Baker, Connor and Jarryd Robinson, Justin Beswick, Graeme Betty, and Tayne Beswick, all of Johannesburg and presently on holiday in Plettenberg Bay. Three of the Harkerville Saturday Market stalwarts, who set up their stalls on every Saturday of the year, come rain or shine are, from left Ashley Towell (semiprecious stones), David Wells (ceramics), and Cindy Jacobs (jewellery). Having market fun on Reconciliation Day are, clockwise from left, Karen Cilliers, Gill Goodall, Robbie Cilliers, Grace Short, Amy Cilliers; Jessica, Wallace and Julie Short; and Richard Cilliers, all of Johannesburg, and all of whom concurred: “We are having a lovely time - the breakfast was delicious!” At right, introducing their two-month-old baby girl Azayleah to the market were Adine Manuel and Earl Damonds, both of Plettenberg Bay. Photos: Timothy Twidle

SELFIES MET SCHWARTZ: So jaar of wat gelede het die blond-belokte Elandré Schwartz sy weergawe van ‘Tougher than the rest’ op YouTube gepos - en amper oornag meer as vierhonderdduisend ‘views’ ingepalm! Die boorling van Despatch in die Oos-Kaap het teen Desember 2016 ‘n kontrak vir sy eerste album geteken, en sedertdien het sy gewildheid met spoed toegeneem. So toe die span van Salon Divine in Plettenbergbaai hom op 8 Desember onder daai slim-sagte hande wat vir niks verkeerd staan nie neem, was dit onafwendbaar dat ‘n paar ‘selfies’ die goue geleentheid vir altyd moes vaslê.

Inderdaad, die Divine dames en heer laat elkeen wat voet in hul salon sit, soos ‘n ‘rock start’ voel met die uittrapslag.

People, places & events PLETT PARTY TAKES TO THE STREET: On December 16, Bitou locals were treated to a magnificent stage set-up in Plett’s Main Street, where dancing and singing acts culminated in a hip-hopping good time with King Melisizwe, who launched his latest album at The White House Theatre in July this year. The rain did little to deter revellers young and old, with quite a few visiting foreigners participating in the jollifications, too. Caps off to Trevor Mapitiza, below, who rocked the block as a most energetic MC. We thank Vinthi for sharing these pics - visit www.facebook.com/vinthi.neufeld for many more images and local updates.

Photos: Vinthi Neufeld

SOCIAL SCENE

20 December 2017

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BRISTOW’S ZULU RUNS WILD: David Bristow launched his book ‘Running Wild, the story of an African stallion named Zulu’ at Kay and Monty Vineyards in The Crags on Sunday December 17.

At left, the author signs a copy for Honor Hahn James of Wimbledon, London, who is an avid reader and presently on holiday with her family in Plettenberg Bay. Below, David is flanked by Jane Schulz of The Village Bookshop, where the book is presently on sale, and Plett Tourism’s Patty Butterworth, right, who arranged the lovely launch affair.

Photos: Timothy Twidle

A ROYAL CHORAL FEAST: At A Christmas Cantata by Candlelight, held in aid of Hospice Plett at Ouland Royale on Plett’s Airport Road on December 16 were, from left at back, Lyndall, Nicholas and Andrew Hill with Riaan, Janet and Matthew Loubser. In front from left are Jessica Loubser and Fenella Hill; the Loubser family hail from Pretoria, and the Hills come alive at Cairnbrogie…

Photo: Timothy Twidle

People, places & events

CRUSH ENSURES JETSKI’S PLETT STAY: The great-hearted couple behind Plett’s mighty Crush and Surf Shop brands, Liesel and Andrew Fosbrook, were on Robberg 5 Beach among a bevy of Bitou Lifeguards and representatives from Beach Control and Bitou Municipality, to witness mayor Peter Lobese’s arrival on the back of a jetski last Saturday morning. And this is not just any old ‘ski: a veteran of the NSRI fleet, it would have been returned to rescue HQ in the Cape if it weren’t for the Fosbrooks’ generous offer to buy the craft in order for it to assist the town’s lifeguards in their duties. Says commodore Chas Frasier, pictured at right: “This jetski will serve as a preventative tool, used to warn people and clear bathers away from dangerous obstacles, rather than as a traditional rescue craft. On behalf of the lifeguards, I thank the Fosbrooks profoundly for availaing this tool of proactive and preventative Lifesaving. The Fosbrooks are pictured with the mayor at top right, once he had effected a quick costume change into his gifts of a Surf Café t-shirt and hat, after having officially taken reception of the jetski’s ownership documents. - Photos: Martin Hurwitz

VAN DELIVERS! Just when the CXPRESS team risked succumbing to the pressures and stresses of meeting this edition’s print deadline, Flash Kitchen’s head honcho Jacques van der Merwe rocked up at the office with sustenance of epic proportions to put the pizza-kick back in our step.

Pictured here with Jacques is designer Sandi Smith, who’s responsible for the pretty Flash Kitchen ad on page 31 (check that to-die-for menu plus Flashbacks promos) - as she has been, in her capacity as resident design guru, for 99% of the eye-pleasing ads in this edition. Cheers to everyone involved! - Photo: Lezanne Watson

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CXPRESS

NOTICE

20 December 2017

The Great Greater ter Plettenberg Bay y area a has fantastic dive diversity ersity in both Faun Fauna na and Flora and to o cele c celebrate brate this this, was clas classified ssified as an Important Im mportant Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBA) (

by Birdlife South Africa in 2015. To maintain this status, we need to zone beaches in a way that protects our shorebirds while also being inclusive to both dog owners and holiday makers that enjoy our beaches.

In partnership with Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Valley Trust, Plett Tourism, PAWS and the Ratepayer Associations of Plettenberg Bay, Keurbooms and Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Valley, Bitou municipality is launching dog zonation on beaches, from Robberg to Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Valley.

Please keep an eye out at beach entrances for the zonation in your immediate area and your closest preferred zone. Transition zones will be marked with clear signage on the beaches. Please leash your dog when moving from a green zone to an orange zone and remember that dogs are not allowed in a red zone, whether on a leash or not; these are high-density shorebird nesting areas or are designated Blue Flag Beaches.

Non-compliance to these new regulations as well as unruly dogs may be subject to a fine.

Due to breeding shorebirds and other wildlife being very active in this area, no dogs are allowed in this zone.

Dogs must be on-lead, at all times, in this zone.

# S h a r e Th e S h or e s

No leads necessary but dogs must be under command of their owners at all times.

FOOD & WINE

20 December 2017

Gammon hot or cold, this classic roast is a festive table must-have OR the BEST gammon - a MUST- HAVE Christmas table festive classic - you’ve ever had, try this recipe. I’ve included two méthodes de glazing, so take your pick…

INGREDIENTS • 1.5kg+ unsmoked, boneless gammon joint • 2 onions, halved • 2 carrots, unpeeled, cut into 5cm/2” pieces • 2 celery stalks, cut into 5cm pieces • 12 black peppercorns • 1 tsp cloves Glaze #1 • 4 tbsp runny honey • 4 tbsp English mustard Glaze #2 • 2 tbsp peel-free marmalade • 1 tbsp dark treacle sugar • 1.5 tbsp Dijon mustard To Boil…

1. Place gammon in pot and cover with cold water and bring to the boil.

2. Remove, drain water and rest for 15 minutes.

3. Add fresh cold water, gammon and all the other

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ingredients and bring to the boil.

4. Reduce heat, cover with a lid and simmer for 30 minutes per 500g/1lb.

(If saucepan is not large enough to cover joint completely with water, turn over halfway through cooking time.)

5. Remove gammon and cool for 15 minutes.

Strain liquid and use for a nice soup or stock, some other time.

Next Step: Roasting!

1.

Heat oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6 and place gammon on tinfoil tray in roasting pan - this to catch all the juices.

2. Using a small knife, remove the rind from the

gammon, leaving a thin layer of fat. Score the fat in a diamond pattern and push a clove into the centre of each X. Glaze #1: Mix honey and mustard together and brush over gammon.

Glaze #2: Pop marmalade, sugar and mustard into a small pot and stir over a low heat until everything has melted. Increase the heat and bring to the boil. Remove and baste gammon.

3. Roast for 20 minutes, then turn pan around in the oven so front faces the back and brush over more glaze, and cook for further 10-15 minutes or until the fat on top is glossy ANY GARNISH GOES: There’s no beating a wellcooked gammon for your Christmas spread

and golden brown - cover with foil if the top looks toooo brown!

4. Remove and rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Pour juices from foil into small pot and heat gently.

Carve thin slices of gammon and serve on a large platter, spooning over the warmed juices. That’s it!

Eat HOT with boiled potatoes, stir-fried Brussels sprouts (trimmed, halved - spray oil in pan and stir-fry sprouts for 3 minutes, adding a splash of water if necessary, until they are bright green but still crunchy), or buttered cabbage and carrots.

Pan-fried fresh pineapple slices are a classic accompaniment (spray frying pan lightly, heat, add pineapple rings and fry 2 minutes per side, turning regularly until slices are golden brown and caramelised).

Eat COLD with pickles, chutney and crusty bread.

Happy cooking! Chef Jeeves

Size does matter - it depends on the size of your drink!

Finance guru STUART MURRAY reveals that he also has a very keen interest in wine and its intoxicating impact through the ages…

NTERESTING news from the Hallowed Halls of Cambridge University is that dons and students have collectively, and at grave danger to their livers, been researching the size of England’s wine glasses through the past couple of centuries.

I am filled with envy. In my day we researched the Enlightenment (in fact, I think both of them*).

Whisky would have won the day, but alas!

Professor Theresa Marteau and her colleagues have uncorked the fact that the average wine glass size has grown from 66ml in the early 1700s to an admirable 449ml today. With all sobriety, she draws the conclusion: “When it comes to how much we drink… size probably does matter!”

The researchers ob-

I

tained measurements of 411 glasses, dating from 1700 to modern day. They found wine-glass capacity increased from 66ml in the 1700s to 417ml in the 2000s - and the mean wine-glass size in 2016-17 even higher at 449ml.

During the research, Prof Marteau and her colleagues carried out an experiment in a Cambridge pub, altering the size of wine glasses while keeping the actual serving volume the same.

They found this resulted in an almost 10% increase in sales - and temperament.

The university’s Dr Zovana Zupan explains that the development of lead crystal glassware by George Ravenscroft in the late 17th century led to the manufacture of less fragile

and also larger glasses.

Miles Beale, chief executive of the UK’s Wine and Spirits Trade Association, comments: “The size of a wine glass reflects the trend and fashions of the time and is often larger for practical reasons.

“Red wine, for example, is served in a larger glass to allow it to breathe something which perhaps was not a priority 300 years ago.”

Further oenological reflections include the fact that in England, wine consumption increased almost fourfold between 1960 and 1980, and almost doubled again between 1980 and 2004.

The strength of wine sold in the UK has also increased since the 1990s.

Although the enjoyment and drinking of wine is

a serious matter, its consumption still has its lighter side. Viz… An elderly couple were sitting sharing a bottle of wine on a cold winter’s night. The wife opened the conversation: “Oh, I do love you so, and I always will. I just couldn’t do without you.”

Her husband broke in: “Is that you or the wine talking?”

She replied: “It’s me talking to the wine!”

Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

• According to economist Adam Smith, there were two ages of Enlightenment in Scottish history: “…When our universities and educational system led the modern world, and when our engineers and scientists were prolific inventors and thinkers.”

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CXPRESS

HOME & HEALTH

20 December 2017

Take note: too much boozing can lead to holiday heart syndrome...

Read CXPRESS online at www.cxpress.co.za

what we love, since 1948

F you’re planning on partying it up this holiday season with champers, wine, and beer on tap, beware of a serious complication known as ‘holiday heart syndrome’ (HHS), which can cause palpitations and irregular heart arrhythmias.

Nicole Jennings, spokesperson for leading heart medication supplier Pharma Dynamics, describes HHS as a condition which typically occurs during the holidays when people who don’t suffer from heart disease experience irregular heart rhythms following heavy alcohol consumption.

“The effect of alcohol on the heart generally depends on your age, health, the volume and the pattern of your drinking. Excessive alcohol consumption over time can increase your risk of stroke, weaken the heart muscle, and render it less efficient at pumping blood to vital organs.

“Blood pressure also increases with each standard alcoholic drink, which contains roughly 10-16g of alcohol depending on the liquor of your choice.

“HHS is typically associated with the consumption of an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period of time and can cause acute cardiovascular effects such as heartbeat irregularities, shortness of breath and chest pain.

The effects are reversible if you stop drinking or greatly reduce the amount

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you consume, but can be alarming when you first experience it,” she says.

An association between the ingestion of acute alcohol and onset of cardiac arrhythmias has been well documented over the past few decades and was first reported in the 70s when Dr Philip Ettinger noticed an increase in cardiac rhythm disturbances in patients following heavy drinking over the holidays.

Most of the irregular heart rhythms associated with HHS are atrial in nature. Atrial fibrillation, or AF (when you experience heart palpitations, fatigue and shortness of breath) is the most common, but atrial flutter (a fast heart rate of more than 100 beats per minute), and ventricular ectopy (when your heart skips a beat) are also common.

Jennings says the mechanism of HHS isn’t fully understood, but alcohol affects the conduction paths of the heart, which explains the onset of atrial fibrillation.

“When the heart develops a rhythm like atrial fibrillation, the atria stops contracting in unison, which decreases the amount of blood moving through the heart. This causes a drop in blood pressure that can result in dizziness and in response, the body increases its heart rate.

“Abstaining from alcohol for a while is usually the recommended treatment for HHS, but it’s best to see a doctor who will check for a dangerous

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drop in blood pressure or signs of acute heart failure.

It’s better to always err on the side of caution when it comes to the health of your heart,” she advises.

So, what constitutes sensible drinking? According to the National Department of Health (NDoH), women should limit their alcohol intake to two drinks a day and men should preferably call it quits after the third glass.

It’s equally important to keep tabs on the amount of alcohol you consume, which can vary from drink to drink. According to the Association for Responsible Alcohol Use (ARA), the quantities of alcohol in popular liquors are as follows: • 340ml malt beer (at a typical 5% alcohol by volume) contains 12g of alcohol; • 340ml cider (at a typical 6% alcohol by volume) contains 16g of alcohol; • 25ml tot of brandy, whisky, gin, cane or vodka (at a typical 43% alcohol by volume) contains 11g of alcohol; • 120ml glass of wine (at a typical 12% alcohol by volume) contains 11g of alcohol.

Based on a Swedish study, red wine and spirits tend to produce more episodes of arrhythmia than white wine.

To help your heart survive festive season cheer, Jennings suggests the following: “Limit your alcohol intake, especially if you have congenital heart disease or have an in-

creased risk of heart disease as a result of obesity, smoking, high cholesterol or hypertension.

“Don’t overeat during the holidays either, and try to reduce your salt intake. Too much salt could cause water retention and an increase in blood pressure, putting you at greater risk of a heart attack.

“Lay low on coffee, energy drinks and fizzy drinks, as they all contain caffeine which can act as a heart stimulant and cause AF. “Avoid stress by exercising, meditating and getting enough sleep. Too much stress elevates cortisol levels in the body, which can increase your heart rate and blood pressure in the same way that caffeine does.

“Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

A sudden change in eating patterns and physical exertion (common during the summer holidays) can result in dehydration.

“When at a party, be sure to eat something before taking alcohol and remember to drink enough water in between drinks since alcohol strips water from the body,” Jennings recommends.

For delicious, hearthealthy festive season eats and treats, try any of the more than 100 recipes from www.cookingfromtheheart.co.za - they’ve each been given the Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa’s stamp of approval, and most are diabeticfriendly, too.

HOME & HEALTH

20 December 2017

CXPRESS

33

Celebrating compassion: Hats off to Hospice Plett on global Volunteers Day ECEMBER 5 marked International Volunteers Day and on that occasion, Hospice Plett acknowledged the men and women from various Bitou communities who have stepped up to serve in support of the essential work done by this caring organisation.

Bosky Dell was the perfect venue for a celebratory morning coffee, scones and champagne (MCC, to be correct!), and for Hospice Plett CEO sister Cecily van Heerden to pay tribute to the volunteers who have in numerous ways over the past year helped build further capacity into the organisation.

“And how the number of these kind and compassionate locals has grown!” enthuses Hilary Matthews, who has chaired the Hospice Plett board

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of trustees since 2014.

“At the end of 2015 we had one volunteer, but we end 2017 with 22 and expect that number to rise next year - a fact for which we record our sincere appreciation.

“Our gratitude is also extended, in this season of goodwill, to every kind and generous giver who has made a donation in kind or cash to enable Hospice Plett to respond to every call for our service in 2017.”

Hospice Plett’s services of palliative caring and comfort to all who find themselves in life-limiting or, indeed, life-threatening circumstances of ill health, are availed free of charge to individual patients as well as their families.

“We look to members of our community to continue giving so that we are

enabled to continue our outreach of compassion,” says Hilary.

Holding the Volunteer event at Bosky Dell meant that owner Rae Gilbert could give a progress report on the Gift of the Gardeners Project - an outreach of compassion in support of those who are trying to rebuild their gardens after the June fire.

So far 26 beneficiaries of this ongoing, longterm project have registered for assistance.

At present Rae is doing site visits to get an idea of what will be needed and come 2018, she will appeal to garden clubs and all gardening locals in Knysna and Plett to help in stocking Bosky Dell’s ‘After the Fire’ gardening nursery, which will be open free of charge to the registered beneficiaries.

Hospice Plett happily did the draw for the Gift of the Gardeners raffle, which raised R2,300 for the project. The prize of a painting by Liz Phillips was won by ticket number 50, Jeanine Horsfield being the lucky winner.

“As our volunteers left Rae’s beautiful rose garden, each carried a small bowl of succulents lovingly planted by our carers,” says Hilary. These little gardens of thanks will last and reflect Hospice Plett’s resolve to endure and to serve.”

• The board members and staff of the PlettAid Foundation/Hospice Plett are indebted to the National Lotteries Commission for its continued support. Visit www.plettaid. org for additional information and to donate to this incredibly worthy cause.

TOASTING TENDER CARE: Board of trustees chair Hilary Matthews addresses the group at Bosky Dell, with Hospice Plett CEO sister Cecily van Heerden, in red, ready to toast their volunteers’ selfless service

Now’s the time to round up summer garden colours SK any experienced gardener and they’ll tell you that no garden bed is complete without a representative of a certain group of annuals bringing their particular brand of hardy good cheer.

Dianthus is one of those all-rounders - if it’s a colourful show you’re after, these little stunners can be coaxed into flowering throughout the year!

And if you’re in need of something different, look no further than a globe amaranth. You’ll be forgiven for the “what?” expression, since these lovely globe-like flowers are not very well known.

But their intense purple blooms are eye-catching additions to any garden.

Dianthus The delicately-fringed blooms, typical of many of the dianthus, lend form and texture to borders, rockeries, flower beds and balconies, while their gen-

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BLOOMS OF GOOD CHEER: Rudbeckia, left, and dianthus form a wonderful combination for festive gardens Photos: Bedding Plant Growers Association

erosity of flowers promise a bright splash of yearround colour.

Plant your seedlings 15cm apart, with a thick layer of mulch between the plants, in a sunny position (although they will tolerate some shade in summer) in compost enriched soil.

Give them a fortnightly booster of a well-balanced fertiliser to ensure a bumper crop of blooms. Being water-wise, dianthus prefers infrequent but deep watering - another plus for

this family of favourites.

Gomphrena Also known as the globe amaranth, gomphrena is a bushy, hairy leaf annual with globe-like purple flower bracts that sit atop thick stems. With South Africa’s hot and humid summers, our climate is ideal for these stunners to thrive.

They are both heat and fairly drought tolerant and work well in containers or as borders and edging.

Gomphrena plants do best in half shade and

full sun positions in welldraining soil. They grow to about 60cm in height and make excellent cut flowers.

The showy blooms attract butterflies too, so make sure to place them where they can be appreciated for both the blooms and their visitors.

Rudbeckia Popularly known as Denver daisies, rudbeckia offers masses of showstopping yellow colour in the form of a low maintenance compact plant.

They flower for months on end, attract butterflies and tolerate heat too, so a perfect December choice for your patio planters.

Deadheading will go a long way to making that flowering period even longer, and with flowering stalks between 45cm and 50cm high, cut flowers for the house are not out of the question either.

• Visit www.lifeisagarden .co.za for more info.

Season Greetings Brito’s would like to thank all our customers for their support in 2017.

We would like to wish you and your family peace, joy and prosperity through the coming year.

YES!! We OPEN on the 24th & 31st Dec (Selected stores only)

Brito’s Meat Centres Customer Information: Tel: 021 950 1000. Cilmor Street, Kaymor, Stikland, 7535. www.britos.co.za

Dont forget our wide selection of your favourite festive meats.

Corned Tongue, Corned Beef, Boneless Gammon, Smoked Chicken Gammon Roll & so much more.

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CXPRESS

20 December 2017

HANDYMAN ON CALL 082 492 4417 / 072 724 6590

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CLASSIFIEDS

ON THE SOAPBOX

20 December 2017

Letters to the Editor

Email: editor@cxpress.co.za - Fax: 044 533 0852 - PO Box 1449, Plett 6600

Are traditional healers doctors, too?

As one of the 10,000 readers of your newspaper I look forward to and enjoy my free weekly read.

Your publication as a free community paper is obviously reliant ‘inter alia’ on income from advertisements.

In accepting and publishing fee-earning adverts, I believe it is essential for your editorial team to ensure that advertisers’ claims are not misleading.

Regarding the above, I note the following and would appreciate your answers to the questions raised.

On page 6 of your edition dated December 6, ‘Mama Shamim the Healer’ claims: “I solve problems including unfinished jobs left by other doctors.”

Does this statement imply that the advertiser is a

qualified doctor? The dictionary defines ‘doctor’ as a person who holds the highest university degree.

Presumably, your editorial staff are satisfied that the above claim is not misleading. It would be interesting for the Advertising Standards Authority of South Africa to confirm that the above claim is in the public interest and not misleading.

D Winckler, Plett (Thanks for writing, Mr Winckler, and for affording us the opportunity to comment.

Firstly - and this may be the only definite misconception contained in your letter, since other issues raised are debatable and open to discussion depending on the beliefs of our wide range of readers - as free community newspaper we are entirely

dependent on advertisements as sole income, as opposed to “inter alia”.

We virtually kiss the feet of our esteemed advertisers, since their support sponsors every single of the many costs incurred in our quest to bring you that enjoyable and free weekly read.

Although we wouldn’t allow advertising copy deemed offensive in terms of religion or racist sentiments, for instance, Mama Shamim’s claims should be seen in the light of her calling as traditional healer.

We believe that this ageold vocation in the most ancient civilisations, often referred to as “witch doctor”, still has a place in today’s hi-tech world.

Finally, we have great respect for medical doctors and their hard-earned degrees, and don’t believe that

Mama Shamim purports to compete in that realm.

However, apart from the fact that her regular advert helps cover the costs of printing, distribution, office rent and salaries, it could surely be seen as added value in terms of options offered on these pages. Ain’t variety the spice of life, and choices the essence of a free society?

PS: Just because we print 10,000 copies doesn’t mean we have only 10,000 readers; in fact, it is generally accepted in the trade that each newspaper is perused by between one and five readers, so you’re part of a vast fraternity of CXPRESS fans!

If you feel strongly either way on the Mama Shamim issue, please email editor@ cxpress.co.za to let us know your sentiments. - Eds.)

Knysna Provincial and Hospice Plett provide sterling service On November 2, I had a procedure at Knysna Provincial Hospital that resulted, through no fault of the hospital or staff, in complications. I then spent a further two and a half weeks in hospital - during which I received the most wonderful treatment.

Firstly, I wish to enlighten the public of Plett and Knysna that Knysna Hospital has been upgraded and is in exceptional condition; modern and pristine.

The wards are equipped with all the latest equipment and are kept beautifully clean. But most importantly, the staff -

from doctors to nursing staff and cleaners - are dedicated, empathetic, and efficient.

I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to them all, but should point out to the hospital’s administration that they need to consider increasing the numbers of nurses per shift, and not burn out their well-trained existing staff.

When I was discharged, I was introduced to Hospice, who arranged for a trained nursing sister who works for Hospice Plett to call in and take my blood samples and check on me at my home.

I was very surprised as most of our citizens, including myself, are ill informed as to the functions of Hospice.

We all need to be aware that this organisation does not only assist terminally-ill patients, but also provides a variety of support and services to other patients in need of postoperative and medical assistance. All you have to do, is give your local Hospice a call and obtain the services they can offer.

I urge everyone to support your local Hospice, all of which are NonProfit Organisations,

with whatever assistance you may be able to offer, be it your time or donations, no matter how small. And most of all, do spread the word.

Finally, a big thank you to the staff and congregation of the Parish of Formosa for their prayers, support and visits.

Alan Cherrington, Plett (We are always grateful to share good news, Alan, so thanks for taking the time to put pen to paper.

Turn to page 33 to find out more about Hospice Plett and visit www.plettaid.org for additional information. - Eds.)

Petty politics leave KwaNokuthula community high and dry this festive season Bitou Municipality in Plettenberg Bay has left a sour taste in the mouths of young people after it sabotaged the annual New Year’s Eve party by a local event planner Sivuyile ‘Sivu’ Nkomo at KwaNokuthula Stadium on December 31 - this after a deliberate “mix up” of booking with another company for the same venue on the same date.

Siv and Majiri Events

had received a confirmation email for all events at the stadium this year

by January 2 already, and this included the New Year’s Eve party.

But in November, we were told that another event company was favoured, even though they received confirmation on September 21 only - nine months after we had secured the venue.

After finding out about

We can’t socialise our dogs if they’re not allowed in public I would really appreciate CXPRESS doing an article on the fact that dogs are not allowed at Sedgefield Market and events like the Leisure Isle Festival.

It is a rubbish rule how can dogs socialise with others if they are never allowed to go anywhere in public?

Ricky Cooper, by email

(As explained in our correspondence, Ricky, we’ve not as yet had the opportunity to feature an article in this regard, but we invite readers - or, indeed, the organisers of said events to share their sentiments.

Email editor@cxpress. co.za if you feel strongly for or against the no-dog rule, and see the notice on page 30. - Eds.)

this, we went to the municipal offices to try getting clarity on the contract. But we were directed by [acting head of Community Services] Mark Fourie to Willie Swanepoel, who is a mere caretaker of the stadium, and also seems to be handling bookings on behalf of the municipality.

His arrogance forced us to approach the mayor’s office, which has still not resolved the issue.

This appears to be a case of sabotage because of petty politics in the Bitou municipal offices.

It is very demotivating to young people who are trying to develop this small town, and it also gives us cause to believe that there is a lot of corruption happening in Bitou Municipality.

I urge all young people to stand up to anyone who blocks progress when we are trying to chase our dreams.

We need to stand up

against corruption of any sort, especially in government sectors that are supposed to further our development, and we need to expose anyone that takes part in such activities.

Ayanda Malangeni, Plett

WRONGED? Young Kwanobased event organiser Sivu Nkomo had reason to believe his contract to stage the New Year’s Eve party was secured - turn to page 4 of the December 13 edition at www.cxpress. co.za to read the article in this regard

CXPRESS

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Read CXPRESS online @ www.cxpress.co.za

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CXPRESS

SPORT & ADVENTURE

20 December 2017

City slicker or lekker local, no one can afford to miss this year’s Plett Polo International!

HE holiday season is in full swing and Plett’s festive fever is rising rapidly.

Plans for this year’s Plett Polo International on December 29 are all in place and word is that spectators can expect this annual sporting highlight to be bigger and better than ever before.

According to the South African Polo Association, last year’s International was the second-largest equestrian event (excluding the races, of course) in SA, with an estimated 2,000 people in attendance at the magnificent Kurland Estate.

Plett Polo now boasts a young and energetic event team dedicated to this year’s spectacle and these ace organisers are unashamedly aiming to make Plett Polo International 2017 the biggest equestrian

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event in SA, with an estimated 3,000 well-heeled individuals in attendance.

“We appreciate just how tough the current economic climate is, so this year we are offering you more bang for your buck, while growing and improving the event,” says Plett Polo manager Tessa Moxon.

Their main drawcard on December 29 will be an after party - with a capital ‘A’ - featuring dedicated marques, an array of live bands, and world-class DJs. More good news is that VIP-box ticket holders will automatically

gain entry to this celebration, which starts straight after the prize-giving.

Signed music acts include Kyle Deutsch, Majozi, Stone-Age Citizens, Doppelgänger, and the Paradise Citizens.

“We have catered for all music lovers’ tastes, and the after party is sure to offer entertainment for everyone,” says co-organiser Garth Kanigowski.

“Other additions include an improved speaker system, grandstand seating, and a dedicated bar for the East Bank, as well as a gourmet

food truck court at the Pavilion and a dedicated gin bar.

“We are all super-excited about this year’s offerings and hope to see you on the deck enjoying the sporting action and excellent company. Remember, this day is not only about SA’s high flyers who congregate in Plett over December to strut their stuff, but also an excellent opportunity for local friends and families to spend quality time at the beautiful Kurland Estate.”

• Call Garth and Tessa of Plett Polo on 072 449 9057 and see the ad on page 23.

AFTER ACTION… Complementing the on-field exhilaration of South Africa’s national polo team battling it out against their counterparts from the UK, the after party following this year’s international clash promises to rock your socks off

PONY PARADE: Rubbing shoulders with the Springbok polo team and their opposition during the annual Main Street parade is always fun; this year’s event is scheduled for 6pm on December 27

Annual Sabrina Love Ocean Challenge lures best of the best...

HE Sabrina Love Ocean Challenge has become synonymous with active family fun and a celebration of all that is summer and sport in Plett. Founded on a family’s love, the annual event is now in its 14th year, and for the thousands of participants, hails the highlight of their holidays.

Although all eight of the sporting events held over the two days are designed to be achievable, they also attract the best of the best.

This year, the Mokke brothers join a long list of present and past Sabrina Love Ocean celebrity stars, which have included the likes of Gary Player, Natalie du

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Toit, and Bruce Fordyce.

David Mokke’s versatility and prowess across the various paddling disciplines means he is currently regarded as the best all-round paddler on the planet. Notwithstanding the esteem of that commendation, he doesn’t have to look much further than his own brother, Jasper, for a rival to that acclaim.

While their participation in the Sabrina Love Ocean Ski Challenge is all in aid of love, be assured that there won’t be much love lost on the water as those siblings go head to head.

The Mokke brothers are two of only a handful of men in the world whom

former woman’s world champion and Plett local Michelle Eray will accept reaching the beach ahead of her and even then, not without a fight.

So there won’t be a more competitive surf ski race anywhere in the world on December 21.

What happens above water is one thing; in the water is another’s domain entirely but here, too, performances will be no less than world class as Olympian Chad Ho is expected to surge onto the beach to claim yet another Sabrina Love Ocean title.

As per last year, the swim course will be a lapped race with all the action taking

THE POWER OF LOVE: The Ocean Challenge on December 21 and 22 is the main fundraiser for the Sabrina Love Foundation, which supports Bitou’s special-needs kids

place on Central Beach.

While Chad holds sway in the surf, on land it is the funky new kid on the block of South African trail running, Robbie Rodrick sporting his pink tie-dyed Sabrina shirt and possibly still wearing his Red Bull Lion Heart Crown - who will try to hold back all competitors in the 10km Beach Run, and then again at Kurland Estate in the 10km Trail Run. While Robbie’s on point in the men’s race, the lady who made the pink Sabrina Love Hot Pants the trendiest running garment on the trail, Chantal Nienaber will be guarding the front end

of the women’s race with her characteristic bubbling enthusiasm that makes her one of the most endeared of the country’s trail greats.

Although much of the excitement is focused on the performances of the Sabrina Stars, the fun flows throughout the field with great family rivalries renewed.

The annual Ocean Challenge is the main fundraising event for the Sabrina Love Foundation, which supports local children with special needs, the aim being to support 1,005 of Bitou’s special-needs kids. Visit www. sabrinalove.co.za/ocean challenge-2017/ to enter and see the advert on page 23.

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