News Of Hermanus 13 October 2015

NEWS

Hermanus

The

News You Can Use

Issue 4

FREE COPY

R952

13 OCTOBER 2015

A fest success

Though the Whale Festival was staged this year with only 20% of its normal budget available it was widely received as once again being a success and a huge drawcard for Hermanus.

R1 659

“We had a shoestring budget to work with after the title sponsor Distell withdrew most of its sponsorship a few weeks before the festival was due to start. In terms of cash in the bank from sponsors to organise the festival with, I had access to R120 000 this year compared to R290 000 for the previous year. That is apart from what we normally receive in terms of infrastructure,” says Leon Theron, organiser of the festival.

According to Frieda Lloyd, PR manager of Hermanus Tourism, this year the festival weekend took on a new shape with not only the Whale Festival as the main attraction but a lot of other events being staged. “Apart from the main festival there was also the Fringe Festival and various other events like a comedy show and the traditional Whales n Wheels exhibition and other smaller events that gave visitors ample choice for things to do,” she says.

According to Bruce van der Spuy, organiser of the Whale Fringe Festival, their events were well attended. “Overall the music did well and we were fully booked out for the Boulevard Blues Band, which contributed roughly R4 000 to the Hermanus High School hockey and rugby tour to Namibia in 2016. The film festival did not do as well as we expected but it is still a new concept that needs to be refined,” says Bruce. Louise van Zyl, owner of Sprokkelster Productions who organised a concert by the internationally renowned PJ Powers in the Old Harbour on the Saturday evening was less fortunate.

“It was a disaster for us. Only about 100 people attended the concert although it was pleasant evening. We had a lot of people phoning us before the concert stating they were caught up in traffic coming into town and would rather skip the concert than face the traffic. I am devastated. I was sure that the concert would be a success, but I was wrong. I lost more than R100 000 with this concert. It seems that open air productions in the evenings in Hermanus just do not work,” she says.

This sentiment is echoed by both Leon and Fabio Lenci, chair of the Whale Festival. “The Coke Music stage was very well attended during the day, but the evening performances were hardly attended,” says Fabio.

Leon says the move of the music stage to Gearing’s Point had a positive effect on the festival. “On the Saturday there were 960 visitors to the marquee. If you take into account that it could accommodate 320 people, we were able to fill it up three times over during the course of the day.”

However, fewer people than normal attended this year’s festival.

“Less people attended the festival on the Friday and the Sunday, but on Saturday the town was buzzing and the thousands of visitors created a great festival vibe. Although we will feel the impact of this on our bottom line, we will make some profit this year,” Leon says.

According to Frieda the Hermanus Tourism Bureau answered many calls about the entertainment on offer and it is clear that visitors want to know exactly what is on offer before they venture to Hermanus.

“The weekend with all its many activities was a success as there was something for everyone. Event organisers realised that there was an opportunity to present activities even if these were not directly tied into the Whale Festival. It would work much better, however, if activities could be united and a more coordinated programme offered to visitors. Scheduling of events should aim to prevent multiple activities in the same popular timeslots. Hermanus Tourism is more than willing to help with the distribution of the programmes and can also be of more assistance as a ticket office as we already have the structures and equipment in place,” says Frieda.

According to Fabio there was not one incident of crime reported, nor any incidents of public drunkenness. “The success of this year’s festival has filled us with renewed inspiration and I am looking forward to the next one,” says Leon.

Read more on what local business owners have to say about the festival on page 6.

The Eastcliff Pop-up Shop had its official opening at the Eastcliff Village shopping centre in Hermanus on 8 October. The shop is stocked with a host of products for moms, kids and dads as well as for expectant moms. The shop is run by Louisa Kruger of Louisa's Antenatal Classes. Popular brands such as Peekamoo, Baby Blossoms Baby Pearls, Cheeky Bum, Suikerklontjie and many more can be found in the store. There are also tongue-in-cheek underwear for men, leather wallets, sarongs, towels, summer scarves and artisan chocolates available. You can also purchase Louisa's merchandise online. The shop is open from 09:00 to 17:00 Monday to Friday and from 09:00 to 14:00 on Saturdays. Find the Pop-Up Shop at Eastcliff Village next to the Running Rabbit Bistro. For more information call 082 656 7273, e-mail: info@louisasbabyshop.co.za or visit www.louisasbabyshop.co.za. Sophia (4) enjoyed the opening with her mom, Louisa.

Hermanus Toyota 028 312 1177 Maryka

Get ready to parkrun

Good news for residents looking to commit themselves to a healthier lifestyle is that on Saturday 31 October Hermanus will be the latest addition to the international parkrun family.

Training Institute (OTI) and will take place on our farm and the Camphill School grounds in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley,” says Debbie Peiser, OTI managing director.

With more than 60 local and 700 international parkruns taking place every Saturday it is not only the perfect event for locals to commit to a healthier lifestyle it also has huge potential to attract large numbers of visitors to town. There are more than a quarter of a million registered parkrunners in South Africa.

According to Edmund Bucchianeri of the OTI they have big plans for the Hermanus parkrun over the next few months. “I cannot reveal everything right now but in the meantime participants will be able to grab a post parkrun coffee or tea at the Bush Diner where we also serve light breakfasts. There is also a children’s play area and tables and benches for those looking to take a break after the run.” There are also toilet and shower facilities and free parking available.

The concept is simple: turn up every Saturday at 08:00 and run (or walk) 5km. It doesn’t matter how fast you go. It doesn’t matter how old you are. What matters is taking part. It is a timed event, but that is only for your own reference. Every parkrunner receives an e-mail after the race with their official time. All the parkrun events are free of charge and it is organised by local volunteers.

“The Hermanus parkrun will be co-hosted by the Overstrand

According to Torrin Theron, Regional Director for the Boland, Garden Route and Karoo, parkruns are aimed at being a family activity. “We want people to start living healthier, get out and do some exercise. Anyone can come, no matter what your age or fitnesslevel.Dogs(onleashes)andthewholefamilyarewelcome.”

Read more on page 10.

The

Rambler

Times are tough and money is tight. Prices continue to rise and we need to make sure that we get the best value for every Rand we spend.

This applies to all our purchases and a recent post from an angry consumer on Facebook confirms the point: "Why is toilet paper not only much cheaper in the U.K. than here but also twice as absorbent, wider and a roll lasts two to three days longer?"

Now The Rambler considers himself to be something of an expert in this particular field, having spent many a happy hour studying the strengths and weaknesses of the various forms in which toilet paper, rolls or indeed tissue manifest themselves. For some, this might be a sensitive and delicate issue (in more ways than one) but The Rambler is always happy to take

A very thorny (t)issue responsibility, roll his sleeves up and get his hands dirty.

Indeed, on his very first visit to this country, a full 14 years ago and well before this particular question was raised in social media, The Rambler's diary reveals an early interest in the subject, albeit a relatively superficial one as the study dealt exclusively with the differences between two-ply and single-ply. The latter was adjudged to be totally useless (and largely a false economy as one generally has to use twice the amount thereby doubling the "ply" by default). In those days, it was a much appreciated pleasure and blessed relief to find a guest house or hotel which, thoughtfully, provided the former.

A more detailed study than this, however, would require considerable time and additional equipment. Now, the male species is notorious for spending time in the smallest room armed with newspapers, magazines, books (one man claimed to have read "War and Peace" on the

loo but would not disclose how many sittings it took), crossword and Sudoku puzzles, pens, pencils, tablets and cell-phones. This phenomenon has caused as many arguments as the perennial "seat up or down?" debate.

The question posed here, though, presents a number of logistical barriers. Let's look at the issues.

First "much cheaper": This is not quite so easy to calculate as one might think. Bearing in mind the Rand's volatility, R50 for 9 could equate to ₤4.00 one minute and ₤2.00 the next. And how does one take into account the number of sheets per roll or differing paper weights, not to mention differing VAT rates and cost-of-living indices?

Next "wider": This one is relatively easy, requiring only a ruler or some other sort of measuring device.

"A roll last two to three days longer": Any calculation of this sort would depend for

accuracy on strict entry criteria to the facility involved as well as comparative dietary information on the user. Other factors which might have an influence here include information relating to the user's health - does he have a head cold for example and therefore might use the paper for non-toiletry purposes.

Finally, and this is the really tricky one, "twice as absorbent": Some sort of subjective opinion might be formed on this subject but this would require not only considerable dexterity but also a phenomenal memory or other record-keeping system. The Rambler is no scientist but is inclined to think that a truly objective answer to this conundrum would require access to a small laboratory complete with test tubes, Bunsen burners, pipettes, lab coats and that very strange smell which he remembers from his school days.

As such, unless someone can provide an extraordinarily-sized bathroom (to use the American euphemism) this whole experiment will have to come out of the closet.

SMS & FB

The

Working together

Betty Blue Bistro 126 Main Road Hermanus Tel: 028 125 0037 Fax: 086 461 7400 info@bettyblue.co.za

OPEN DAILY 08:00 - 17:00 7 DAYS A WEEK

It seems as if the winds of change for Hermanus are blowing. It has been a busy three weeks for Hermanus with the Whale Festival, Fringe Festival, a wedding fair, mountain bike race, night run, daily films shown, conservation exhibitions, flower exhibitions and festivals, comedy shows, live music and the KAMERS craft and design showcase. . .

And now we have Hermanus Connect, described as a caring consortium of community organisations, with the aim of ensuring a bright future for our town by discussing the issues the town is facing and looking to work together to find solutions and come up with new ideas for bolstering our economy.

The consortium consists of tourism, the business chamber, Whale Coast Conservation and the Hermanus Rate Payers.

This is an initiative that is well worth supporting and can go a long way in at last ensuring that the various entities in town work together for the benefit of all. For too long the phrase “working together” has only been paid lip-service.

GOOD

Dave Smith

News You Can Use

I am sitting in my lounge reading The Hermanus News on my laptop. What a wonderful feeling it is to read news from Hermanus all the way over here. Well done to all of you on a stunning job. The articles are newsworthy and interesting and I am enjoying it very much, Annemarie van Oudtshoorn, Randburg The Whale Festival was great, but we really need to do something about the pollution problem.

Crazy that an eco-festival produces so much rubbish... All of which ends up in the ocean and affects the whales and other animals we are celebrating, Meaghen McCord Gray The festival was lively and lovely but traffic a nightmare! Rene Smit Taljaard Can we please get some of the news you can use on what the municipality is doing. They do such wonderful things and we need to know about it, Chris

In these days of tough economic circumstances we as residents need to know that the specialists are hard at work looking at ways to ensure that our town stays the buzzing seaside hub it has always been.

Social media indicated how much visitors enjoyed Hermanus.

Twitter, Facebook and Instagram were alive with images taken during the past few weeks.

Let us all stand together and stay the best town in the country.

This is the good news - Ed

Publisher De Waal Steyn 083 700 3319 dewaal@thehermanusnews.co.za

Marketing Ester Schultz 079 163 0810 ester.schultz@outlook.com Graphic Designer & Layout Artist Nickey Jackson 079 408 7722 nickey1094@gmail.com

2

Working together for our children. The Hermanus Rate Payer’s Association in cooperation with Ward 3 in Hermanus will start restoring the children's play parks in Eastcliff and Northcliff. The parks will be mowed twice a month and they hope to do further maintenance of these areas under the guidance of Ward 3 Councillor Kari Brice. According to Kari the Municipality needs this kind of assistance and public participation in order to keep our town and its amenities in good working condition. Here are Pam Herd and Grant McLachlan from the Ratepayer’s Association with Kari Brice, Ward 3 Councillor, and Deon Engelbrecht and his team from Groenberg Tuindienste.

Ombudsman

The press exists to serve society. Its freedom provides for independent scrutiny of the forces that shape society, and is essential to realising the promise of democracy. It enables citizens to make informed judgments on the issues of the day, a role whose centrality is recognised in the South African Constitution.

The News of Hermanus subscribes to the South African Press Code and subsequently to the South African Press Council and the South African Press Ombudsman. Should you feel that our reporting was not free, fair or unbiased or that serious errors were made, you are welcome to lay a complaint with the Ombudsman, Joe Thloloe. He can be reached on 011 484 3612/8, or via e-mail at pressombudsman@ombudsman.org.za or visit www.presscouncil.org.za

NEWS The

GOOD

Content Manager Megan Smith 082 411 1343 smalltowntiger@gmail.com

Turn Hermanus pink to show you care “We are calling on the residents of Hermanus to help us turn Hermanus pink during the Pink Trees for Pauline campaign on 16 October. The campaign is aimed at assisting people who suffer from cancer,” says Anthea Woolstencroft, one of the local organizers of the campaign.

According to her, Pink Trees for Pauline will raise funds in order to assist people affected by cancer with their right to access cancer treatment. “As the branch manager of the Anré Funeral Group and as a local business I feel it is our duty to give back to the community we operate in. That is why I decided to get involved in this CANSA supported fund raiser. We would love to see the town wrapped in pink to show that we all care.”

In 2012 Carol-Ann van Jaarsveld, together with Adri van Nieuwenhuizen, a breast cancer survivor, and Dr. Pam Kerr, an Educational Psychologist, founded Pink Trees for Pauline as cancer is so prevalent in our society that it is not even a stretch of the imagination to say, that each of us knows, or is connected to, our own Pauline.

“Pink Trees for Pauline strives to promote quality of life during and after cancer. The idea is to wrap tree trunks, offices, garden posts, basically anything in the signature pink material in order show support for those affected by this disease.

Residents can buy the material at R20 per metre either from Anré Funeral Services at 11 Argon Street or from the CANSA offices on the corner of Roos and Douglas Streets in Onrus,” says Anthea.

The biggest reward of Pink Trees for Pauline is

Go out and buy your pink material now at only R20 per metre and show you care. The material is available from Anré Funeral Services at 11 Argon Street or from the CANSA offices on the corner of Roos and Douglas Streets in Onrus. knowing that funds raised in towns are allocated to the cancer communities of those specific towns. During the 2014 project nearly 65 km ofz material was sold in 101 towns.

According to Adri all of us have a ‘Pauline’ or ‘Paul’ in our lives. “Someone who survived cancer or someone who lost the battle. To remember them, to honour them we want to do something significant to help others. Whether

you wrap a tree, all the trees in your road, an obelisk, a truck or ask someone to drape pink material around a friend’s shoulders in a faraway town… to be part of the Pink Trees for Pauline drive is deeply emotional and immensely rewarding.

“Most often we find that from pain something beautiful comes to life. We find people doing

extraordinary things for others even though they themselves are still heartbroken, maybe even still morning the passing away of someone dear. This sadness deep within them becomes almost like a source of energy which they use as a reserve to help others,” says Adri.

For more information call Anthea on 028 312 2789 or the CANSA office on 028 316 3678. Visit www.pinktrees.co.za and for daily updates visit the Pink Trees for Pauline Facebook page. To speak to Adri van Nieuwenhuizen you can contact her on 082 460 6386 or email adri@pinktrees.co.za. Should you wish to make a financial contribution the details are: Pink Trees for Pauline, FNB, account number: 62398852238, branch code: 210114.

A John of all trades finds a new home in Hermanus Meet John Morris, the new owner of the much loved The Book Cottage. He has not been in town long, only three weeks to be precise. John spent the previous 24 years in Cape Town. “I have lived in S.A. since 1991 and seem to have found a permanent home in Hermanus!”

Further claims to fame include a global tech. award from Microsoft in 2002 for a mark-up language which describes a set of rules for encoding documents in a manner which both machine and human can read.

John gave up the corporate life after a career in information management at the prestigious Ernst & Young, a multi-national professional services firm.

More importantly, he fulfilled a lifelong ambition to become a student at the age of 40, joining UCT’s film school as an honours student, receiving a PhD five years later.

A love for books has always been a part of his life.

His first job in London was in bookselling and he considers himself an avid book buyer and more recently an author.

John penned the book “Culture and Propaganda in World War II: Music, Film and the Battle for National Identity”. "The book tells the story of how, during the War, the British used classical music for the purposes of “cultural propaganda” in film, on the BBC and even in live performance. Also, how composers and musicians rallied to the War effort."

NEWS

GOOD

The

John hopes to host regular events and possibly to become a centre for classical music (recorded books, and if possible, performance!).

Otherwise, he aims to continue the tradition begun by the late Sue McNaught and continued by previous owner Meghan Warren, with whom he shall be working to achieve these incredible tasks. The famous children’s section will go from strength to strength.

Find The Book Cottage on 17 Long Street, Hermanus. Call: 028 313 0834

3

Watching out for our neighbourhoods If the recent crime stats are anything to go by, it would seem that more needs to be done in order to solve the problem. Sadly the police force and security sectors are already under a lot of pressure. There is however a glimmer of hope and a sense of community through the creation of neighbourhood watch groups. MEGAN SMITH reports.

There are neighbourhood watch groups operating in greater Hermanus and they are located in, Onrus, Vermont, Fisherhaven, Sandbaai, Paradise Park, Zwelilhe and Mount Pleasant. Areas from Swartdam Road in the Hermanus industrial through to Voeklip fall under the HPP (Hermanus Public Protection).

groups. These are purely for the purpose of reporting suspicious activities or incidents in the area and strict guidelines are in place to ensure that there is valuable content for the members,” says Caroline.

Members who form part of the patrol groups receive training from DOCS (Department of Community Safety) although the group has done their own informal training. A joint operation with SAPS and Traffic and Law Enforcement has already been done and a regular patrol schedule is being set in place.

“There are many ways of keeping watch over your community. Putting out the garbage or walking the dog can become opportunities to

The group has been involved in stopping at least one break-in, members did not approach the criminal directly but called the police and SAFE Security, who then caught the individual breaking and entering.

Caroline says in cases of confrontations the security companies and/or the SAPS are called.

“Our OnVerWag policy is that our neighbourhood watchers are ‘the eyes and ears’ of our community, our responsibilities are not that of confrontations. These should be left to the professionals, namely, our law enforcement groups.”

Caroline Gabb, treasurer of OnVerWag, the Onrus Vermont Watch says OnVerWag was started in response to the community’s concerns about crime in the area. “Many members of the area have been very supportive and they are keen for more people to become a part of this fast growing initiative. And we have received great encouragement from the community thus far. The OnVerWag group was established earlier this year and already has a total of 360 members which grow daily as more people sign up,” says Caroline.

Individuals in Vermont and Onrus can join by filling in an application form. Forms are available via the OnVerWag website at www.ovnhw.org.za or at the OK Mini-mart, the Whalemed offices, Onrus Vetinary Clinic or via their Facebook group: Onrus Vermont Neighbourhood Watch.

“Once an individual joins OnVerWag they will gain access to the WhatsApp and Facebook

watch and observe and be alert to any suspicious activity.

“Suspicious activity or persons are reported and shared via several active WhatsApp groups along with the Facebook network,” she says.

According to her they assimilate the data and report incidents to the CPF (Community Police Forum).

“OnVerWag has strong relationships with all our law enforcement groups and aims to work handin-hand with them to achieve positive results in our neighbourhood. People are more alert and observant and less negligent, which I am sure has made things more difficult for criminals. The decrease in crime is difficult to measure, if there has been a decline we unfortunately don’t have previous statistics to measure it against,” says Rachel Holmes, marketer of OnVerWag. A recent report, however, shows that Vermont hasn’t had an incident for the second week in a row.

Tel: 028 316 2348 Closed Mondays Open Tues to Sat from 11:30 to late and Sun 11:30 to 15:00 Sections 4 - 6 Hemel-en-Aarde Village

We also cater for all functions, including weddings, birthday parties, baby showers & year-end functions.

What is OurHood?

OurHood is a digital networking platform that connects communities to strengthen neighbourhoods and build a stronger, safer South Africa. The benefit of using that platform is that it’s very secure; everyone on OurHood has been vetted.

Visit www.ourhood.co.za to register.

What is the Community Police Forum?

It is based on the assumption that the objectives of the SAPS, namely the prevention, combating and investigation of crime; the maintenance of public order; the provision of protection and security to the community and their property; and upholding and enforcing the law, can only be achieved through the collaborative effort of the SAPS with other organisations and structures of civil society.

“An individual cannot become a member in their own right, but rather through one of their community associations such as ratepayers’ associations or a neighbourhood watch. The monthly meetings are only for elected members, however we are working hard to put in place information forums for the community. These will be advertised through the different community associations who are already members,” says Fiona Delport, Hermanus CPF Secretary.

What is the HPP? The organization was established in 2002 and arose out of the need identified by the residents of Hermanus to supplement and assist the local authorities and the SA Police Services with their duties, in order to enhance the quality of life and enjoyment for all who live in and visit our beautiful coastal town.

HPP operations are performed on a daily basis from 07:00 to 19:00 and up to 20:00 during the

December/January school holidays, seven days a week including all public holidays. The geographical area covered stretches from 17th Avenue, Voëlklip in the East to Swartdam Road in the West of Hermanus. The northern and southern boundaries are formed by the Fernkloof Nature Reserve and the coastline. A staff complement of 32 HPP officers completes daily patrols in the designated areas which include the residential areas, Swartdam Road Industrial Area, Hermanus Cliff Path from the New Harbour to Grotto Beach, Hoy’s Koppie and Piet se Bos. There are 24 HPP Officers on foot patrols which are complemented by an additional 5 HPP officers on bicycles in the residential and industrial areas.

The foot and cycle patrols are supported by a patrol vehicle manned by two supervisors. The vehicle is clearly identified with the HPP and ADT logo.

“We definitely feel that HPP is making a positive contribution towards the reduction of crime and grime in the area,” says manager of the HPP, Hennie Niemand. HPP hotline: 028 312 4900

Overstrand Protection Services Overstrand Protection Services is a locally based organisation that offers a 24-hour response and patrol service operating in the areas of Fisherhaven, Hawston, Karwyderskraal, Middlevlei and Bot River.

Call: 028 315 1492 Important Numbers: 028 313 5300 – SAPS 028 313 4900 - SAPS alternative number 028 313 0801/086 121 2306 – ADT Security 028 313 0777 – SAFE Security 028 312 4900 – HPP Security 028 315 1492 – Overstrand Protection Services 028 313 2703 – (Marine Coastal Management) to report poaching

The

123 - TATTOO - FREE Aluminium Security & Timber Shutters

TATTOO REMOVAL SYSTEM www.123tattoofree.com

Ria 082 925 6957 21A Mimosa Street, Hermanus Industria

Tel: (028) 312-3767 Email: sales@premiershutters.co.za Website: www.premiershuttersandfires.co.za

NEWS

GOOD

4

GOOD

GUIDE The

Thursday 15 October Overstrand Hospice Bridge Drive

United Church hall. Play starts at 13:00. Cost R75 pp. Contact Carin at 082 613 9390

sell cheese platters, muffins, boerewors rolls and top class wines. Registration at the venue from 06:45. The 11km run starts at 08:00 and the 6km at 08:15. Pre-entries receive discount; enter online at www.dirtopia.co.za.

News You Can Use

Tuesday 13 October Hermanus Connect Information Session

The starting time is 07:30 and the cut-off is at 09:30, followed by the prize giving. Find more details at www.stellenboschatletiekklub.co.za or contact 079 720 4315 / 082 628 3393.

Topics include new projects at Hermanus Tourism, the revitalisation of the CBD, “the environment Is our economy” and an update on the proposed bypass road. Municipal Auditorium @ 17:30.

Tuesday 20 October Cup of Tea for CANSA

Wednesday 14 October Monthly SAARP meeting

The Lake Marina Yacht club in Fisherhave will host the event. Starts at 11:00. Contact Pat on 028 315 1605.

Speaker: Sheryl Ozinsky, founder of the Oranjezicht City Farm. Contact Ingrid on 028 316 2390.

Friday 16 October Cape Town Chamber Choir

Under the direction of Marijke Roos de Villiers the concert will be held at the Municipal Auditorium at 19:00. Tickets at NG Church Hermanus or call 028 313 1112 for bookings.

Saturday 24 October Wildekrans Pink Festival

Sunday 18 October Benguela Cove Lagoon Swim

Wednesday 14 October Supper & Movie Evenings at South Hill

South Hill wine estate in Elgin hosts a supper & movie evening every Wednesday at their tasting room/restaurant. Drinks are served from 18:30, followed by supper at 19:00 and the movie starts at 20:00 on a big screen with surround sound. St Vincent (2014) is the story of a young boy whose parents have just divorced and who finds an unlikely friend in the misanthropic, bawdy and hedonistic war veteran who lives next door.

Starring Bill Murray, Melissa McCarthy and Naomi Watts.

The all-inclusive cost is R135 pp. Out-of-towners can enjoy South Hill’s mid-week stay-over package which includes the Wednesday supper and movie, overnight accommodation and a farm-style breakfast from R600 per head sharing. Contact events@southhill.co.za for more details or to be added to their movie mailing list.

HERMANUS

GOOD

GOOD

NEWS

to the first 350 finishers, prize money to the category winners and lots of lucky draw prizes for all finishers. The event is limited to 350 athletes and you have to enter online before 19 October at www.entrytime.co.za. The entry fee is R70 and temporary licence fee R30. Entries on the day, if still available, from 06:00 - 07:15 at Beau Joubert Wine Estate.

Hosted by Benguela Cove Wine Estate near Hermanus in association with the Freedom Swim Series, this inaugural event includes a one and three mile course in the Bot River lagoon. Starting at 10:00, the challenging yet protected swim offers the most amazing scenery and breathtaking views of the Bot River lagoon and Overberg mountains. Wine tasting and off consumption wine sales of all Benguela Cove’s award-winning wines will be available at the Tasting Room. Relax after the events by indulging in a delectable chocolate, cheese or Turkish delight and wine pairing. Medals will be awarded to all pre-entry swimmers and entry fees are R180 (1 mile) and R220 (3 mile). Email derrick@bigbayevents.co.za to register or visit www.benguelacove.co.za for more details.

Sunday 18 October Falke Blooming Trail Run

This third event in a series of trail runs on various farms in the Simonsberg area will be hosted by the beautiful L’Avenir wine state on the R44 near Stellenbosch. Run between the vineyards with fun single track and jeep track sections over either 11km or 6km. There will be medals for the winners and wonderful hampers from Falke to be won. Refreshment stations on both routes will keep the athletes going while the restaurant will

Join in the fun from 10:00 until the early hours of the following morning at this Botriver wine estate’s annual Pink Festival. The event brings the best of Wildekrans wines, food, music and culture together to create an atmosphere where all can be enjoyed in a beautiful, relaxed, safe and comfortable environment The Pink Way. The line-up of performing artists includes Karen Zoid, Chris Chameleon and Boo, Tamara Day, Dean Fuel, Burn To Tape and DJ Sharklady.

There will also be World Cup Rugby live on a big screen, food stalls and a wine tent. The cost is R275 pp and tickets are available from Computicket. Visit www.wildekrans.com for more details.

Saturday 24 October Stellenbosch Farm Race

The Stellenbosch Farm Race is run entirely on the roads of five picturesque wine estates on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, starting at 07:30 on the Beau Joubert Wine Estate on the Old Polkadraai Road. The challenging 10km route with a total elevation of 300m meanders through vineyards and indigenous forests of neighbouring farms Karibib, Skoonheid, Stirling and Jordan Wine Estate and ends again at Beau Joubert. Medals

Sunday 31 October and Sunday 1 November Elgin Open Gardens

A total of 21 venues will participate in this year’s Open Gardens in the Elgin, Vyeboom and Bot River districts, ranging from large established country gardens (some over 50 years old), to young, recently planted gardens in villages and on smallholdings. A number of gardens will have plants for sale, and some such as Keurbos, Fairholme and Fresh Woods will be offering unusual and interesting plants difficult to find elsewhere.

Many gardens are also offering teas and light meals, in addition to the many other restaurants and food gardens in the area. One of the main Elgin charities, Siphila Sonke, will be serving teas and lunches in the Elgin United Church hall along the Viljoenshoop Road, as well as at Eikenhof.

Other events include various art exhibitions featuring paintings by some of South Africa's most famous botanical artists. Other events include a Birding Workshop at Eikenhof, a one hour course on how to attract birds to one's garden, and the greenhouse tours at Oak Valley.

The many wine estates making up the Elegantly Elgin Wine Route will be open throughout the entire weekend, and some of them are planning special events. Full details with a map can be downloaded from www.elginopengardens.co.za.

General Fridays

• Hermanus Hacking Group meets at the reservoir above Gateway Centre at 06:15 and works until 08:30. All volunteers welcome. Contact Carlyn Vosloo 082 558 8731 • Kolwyntjie-teagarden at the Service Centre in Onrus. Phone 083 457 1896.

• Bridge at the De Wet Hall in Onrus from 09:00 17:00. Queries 028 316 3522.

• Art at the De Wet Hall in Onrus from 09:00 - 12:00.

Queries 028 316 3522.

• See you at the Hermanus Library Bhuki Cfé, for tea, coffee, eats and a chat.

Saturdays

• Hermanus Country Market from 09:00 - 13:00 at the Cricket Grounds.

• Hermanus Pietersfontein market from 09:00 - 13:00.

• Market in the Garden at St Peter’s Church from 09:00 - 13:00.

Are you recently divorced, widowed , new to the area? Join this club for singles and meet new friends, find emotional support and fun social events. Info 076 115 7382.

18 Arum Street Hermanus Tel 028 312 3704 Email sales1@fordhermanus.co.za

55

Whale Festival Feedback

Janine van der Nest, manager at the Eatery Co. “We were very quiet over the weekend but perhaps it has to do with our location. We hope that in 2016 activities and entertainment could be evenly spread through town.”

Ernst Gooris, manager at the Eatery “It felt like an average day for us here at The Eatery. It did not feel like there was a big event taking place in town. I’d like to see the focus placed on the town as a whole instead of just the waterfront area.

We have a lot to offer and I think showcasing Hermanus as a destination is the way to go.”

Sheena Bruce, owner of EAT “We did ok; we are a bit further from the centre of town so that is understandable. I would love to see more “foodie” events taking place.”

Bruce Geddes, Rossi’s Italian Restaurant “Business was down from last year. It seems to be that there were people around but they were not spending money. I would like to see it go back to having activities and entertainment spread over a few days and all over town, more music and live entertainment.”

Mina Naude, owner of @Miens “It was better for me this year but that is because I had more stock available and perhaps that the business is more established now. I would like to see the Main Road closed for the Whale Festival and allow for the local businesses to showcase their products.”

Annette Norman (co-owner of Elements) with Jean Livesy “Streams of people passed us by as they made their way to the front section of town! We feel the unique offerings of our town should be advertised to both visitors and locals.”

Percy Pretorius, owner of Amulet “We are very happy, it was good for business! We noticed a definite increase from last year. I would like to see better entertainment by introducing plays and concerts, almost as a small spill over from Kalfiefees.”

Anton and Nicole Verhoogt, owners of The Fisherman’s Cottage “Friday was packed for us. We set up a tent had some great bands playing and we showed the rugby. Everyone should take more initiative and offer something that will attract both locals and visitors. We felt that there were far too few rubbish bins and cleanup crews.”

Elizma le Roux, owner of OneLove – The Fashion Shack “Sales were down from last year and there were a lot less feet. I’d like to see more people and entertainment that draws crowds, including entertainment for the younger generation. I would say combine it with an event that does well like the Colour Run or use the event as inspiration to create something new. Kids also want to see skateboarding and surfing events taking place!”

John Reynell, owner of De Beers “I would like to see no outside stalls and instead the space be given to charitable organisations and schools. A cheese, wine and fresh produce event or stall that highlights local fare is something to consider.

Furthermore, if we could, I think it would be lovely to showcase seafood such as perlemoen, crayfish and linefish.”

Wine Village “We had a great weekend as always. It would be nice to see a Whale Festival walk that allows a person to experience and appreciate the Hermanus hot spots.”

André Lambrechts, owner of The Flower Scene “We were not affected by the crowds. The long weekend before was booming for us. It would be nice to see more upmarket stalls and events taking place.”

Liz Coates, owner of Pure South “Sales weren’t too bad but definitely not as good as last year. I feel that the name Hermanus Whale Festival is not reflected in the numerous food stalls, ice cream trucks, jumping castles and constant noise.

The festival should concentrate on just that, the whales and Hermanus.”

Ian Macdonald and Ed Bredenkamp, owners of Lembu Gallery “We are already seeing an influx of tourists, both local and from overseas, in October which indicates that Hermanus does not really need a festival now. People are making their way here to enjoy the whales and weather. Gearing’s Point is a premier whale-watching spot and it is replaced during the festival with big tents and loud music.

The festival should be moved to another time of the year as it is not about the whales. It would be good to see something happen around April/May and call it the Hermanus Autumn Festival instead.”

Serving us proudly for over 60 years

Alex Grant Pharmacy has been operating from the Gateway Centre for approximately 9 years but has a much longer, established history in town as it has been in existence for roughly 60 years. The pharmacy stocks an extensive range of items ranging from fine perfumes to dietary and slimming products.

Alex Grant is open from Monday through to Saturday from 08:00 till 17:30 and Saturday from 08:00 to 13:00.

There is also a clinic which is open from Monday through to Friday from 08:00 till 17:00 and then open on Saturday from 08:00 till 13:00. The consultation fee is R45 to see the clinic sister on duty.

Whatever your medical requirements are the friendly staff of Alex Grant will be happy to assist you.

Back: Demi Dickson; middle row from left to right: Chandre Admin clerk Anel Tredoux Arendorf, Christelle Olivier; front row from left to right: Sophie and nursing sister Ronel Adams, Gamerey April, Zeena Isaacs.

Meyer.

Pharmacist Ingrid Grundlingh, qualified pharmacist assistant Marianne Pienaar and pharmacist Petro Steere.

Hermanus Pharmacies/Clinics Emergency after hours tel: 028 312 4039

145 Main Road, Hermanus

Tel: 028 312 4039

brenda@hermanuspharmacy.co.za Hours: Mondays-Fridays 08:00 - 18:30 Saturdays: 08:00 - 13:00 & 18:30 - 19:30 Sundays & Public Holidays 10:00 - 12:00 & 18:30 - 19:30

6

Alex Grant Pharmacy/Clinic Gateway Centre, Hermanus

Tel: 028 312 4847

ingrid@alexgrantpharmacy.co.za Hours: Mondays-Fridays 08:00 - 17:30 Saturdays: 08:00 - 13:00

A. Stewart Pharmacy Pick n Pay Centre, Hermanus

Tel: 028 312 1410

arnold@aspharmacy.co.za Hours: Mondays-Fridays 08:00 - 18:00 Saturdays: 08:00 - 14:00 Sundays & Public Holidays 10:00 - 12:00

NEWS The

GOOD

Hermanus Pharmacy/Clinic

What a waste!

“On our stretch of coast we have picked up false teeth, bottles with heart pills in them, shoes, clothing, toys, vehicle body parts and bits of a television along with a pair of scissors,” says local waste and recycling expert Vic HamiltonAttwell.

Vic along with residents from the Overstrand area led this year’s International Coastal Cleanup spanning the area of Brekfis Bay in Vermont through to Davies’ Pool in Onrus.

“Participants trekked along the 2.3 km of coastline, logging each piece of refuse as they went. Dead animals are also recorded and those that are snared in fishing line and rope are photographed. Over three days a total of 3 200 items was collected totalling 17 bags and weighing in at 77kgs,” says Vic. In Hermanus, Whale Coast Conservation (WCC) together with volunteers from the Hermanus Waldorf School, the Overstrand Municipality, the Windsor Hotel, Hermanus Tourism and community members also joined the cleanup.

According to Anina Lee, Communications Manager of WCC, five teams of five volunteers each collected litter for 45 minutes in 5 different locations on the cliff path between the Marine and Windsor Hotels. Every item collected was separated into categories, counted and then weighed. The total weight of trash was 17.49 kg with 3 494 cigarette butts collected.

“It is concerning that this amount of litter, especially cigarette butts was found in an area

that is regularly cleaned by the municipal cleaners. We have to be more serious about our Greenest Town status,” says Anina.

The annual International Coastal Cleanup is a global initiative of the Ocean Conservancy which relies on providing all would-be participants the tools to plan and accomplish their own cleanup program. The conservancy, based in Washington, records all the data collected world-wide to give the only universal snapshot of debris that litters the ocean, shorelines and river-ways. Past data show that plastic bottle caps were in the majority but now cigarette butts top the list. The way people use products is reflected in what is thrown away.

Under the guidance of Vic and science teacher Miralese Wiegman grade 11 students of Hermanus High School are annually responsible for compiling a project on the waste footprint of his/her household for one week.

Learners have to weigh items separated into six waste categories every second day at their homes. The categories are paper and carton, plastics, glass, metal, food waste and scrapped edible waste including bio-waste such as tea bags, seeds and rinds.

The learners then collate their findings into a report together graphs and tables that is compared with those of the other learners. The children are expected to analyse why the data differs from each other’s. This information is consolidated and sent to Johan van Taak, waste manager at the Municipality.

Recently, learners have been requested to track electronic waste (discarded electronics) which has become a huge problem worldwide. On average there are 10 pieces of e-waste stored per household.

Over the last five years, based on 60 households per year, the data indicate the following: an average household generates 1.5 kilograms of domestic waste per day - 46.5 kilograms per month. The range of food waste is troublesome.

While some households do make use of leftovers, there are also some that dump edible food. On average 4 kilograms of food waste is recorded each month for each household associated with Hermanus High School. “While some households do not waste any food there are some that discard up to 60 kilograms per month. The positive aspect of this, however, is that all of the learners who participate say that they do recycle,” says to Vic. According to Johan recycling can always improve. “We have a diversion from landfill of 37% - the highest in the province. The 37% includes

Reduce • Buy only what you need and avoid buying excessively packaged products • Buy in bulk (less packaging) those items you use a lot. Buy refills and concentrates • Buy products that offer packaging made from recycled materials, such as kitchen towels and shampoo bottles with recycled plastic content • Try to avoid disposable products, such as disposable razors, cameras, paper plates • Choose glass over plastic as it can be recycled. Many plastic packaging items are still not recyclable in South Africa • Avoid toxic or hazardous products Reuse • Where you no longer have a use for something, find somebody who does.

Schools, charities, libraries and some dropoff centres may accept unwanted clothes, furniture, toys, books, videos and magazines • Repair items rather than throwing them away. Support your local seamstress,

shoemaker, bike repair shop and so on. This also stimulates jobs in your community Some handy ideas for reusing household goods: • Store food in reusable containers, rather than non-recyclable cling-wrap or tin foil made from resource-intensive aluminium • Reuse gift wrap and greeting cards • Consider non-material gifts such as a night out • Cut up used paper into squares to reuse as

R990.00

028 312 3704 18 Arum Street, Hermanus

We do a 20 check point service and safety inspection as part of a complete service.

EASTCLIFF AUTO CC

GOOD

NEWS

“We make it easy for residents to recycle as we provide the clear bags for recycling free of charge. Neighbours can also play a part by spreading the word if there is a new neighbour and advise them on how to recycle. New ratepayers can also phone the municipality and we can send a pamphlet explaining to them how to recycle. To recycle is each individual’s responsibility as landfills are very expensive to expand and maintain and without recycling we are destroying our environment by feeding the waste monster,” says Johan.

Vic echoes this. “People do not realize that we have to change our attitude towards the way we manage our waste as land-based waste is ending up in the ocean and is threatening marine life. When you walk on the coastal path or on the streets, pick up the waste you see, remove it from the environment. You will not only save the oceans, you will also save yourself.”

• Choose packaging and products that have recycled contents and are recyclable – look for the recycled symbol • Use your vegetable waste to make compost

We service ANY make or model vehicle OLDER THAN 5 YEARS Phone to make an appointment to have your ly vehicle serviced at the on unbelievable price of

recycling and garden refuse which gets chipped and made into compost. Clean builders’ rubble is used for the covering of the waste.

notepads • Use both sides of any piece of paper and then recycle • Plastic pots and waxed or plastic-coated milk or juice cartons make excellent pots for seedlings Recycle • Recycle waste that cannot be repaired or reused by dropping it off at your nearest recycling depot or drop-off facility

The benefits of recycling • Reduces the amount of waste going into landfill sites, saving space • Creates jobs and money for schools and organisations • Reduces pollution and litter • Saves raw materials needed to make new products • Reduces the need to import expensive raw materials • Slows down the consumption of the world’s non-renewable (oil, coal and iron) and renewable resources (trees) • Reduces energy costs in manufacturing of containers, packaging, etc.

• Saves water (used in packaging and product manufacture).Recycling paper uses 50% less water than paper that is made from wood pulp

Visit our NEW website

www.autohaven.co.za

To view the selection of vehicles in our inventory or visit our showroom.

AUTOHAVEN HERMANUS

QUALITY PRE-OWNED VEHICLES ...

Physical Address: 11 Arum Street, Hermanus Industria, Hermanus Telephone: +27(0)28 312 2676 Email: sales@autohaven.co.za 7

Stanford launches elegant wine route Eight wine farms in the Stanford area recently joined hands to establish the 21st official wine route in the country.

Down to earth and unpretentious, the wine farmers and wine makers of this wine route know how to live close to nature and how to have a good time without pomp and ceremony.

Although its members take their wine very seriously, this wine route epitomises laid-back country living.

“The idea to establish a wine route has always been on the cards and although this has taken longer than anticipated, we are overjoyed that the plan has come together,” said Chairman Tariro Masayiti from Springfontein.

Another key role player in the establishment of the Stanford Wine Route is Sandra Lotz, who has over 30 years’ experience in the wine industry. It wasn’t difficult for Sandra, who relocated to Sandbaai last year, to recognise the potential of the Stanford area as a destination for wine tourism.

“The region has everything that is required of a wine route,” says Sandra. “That includes not only picturesque vineyards and wine tasting facilities but also restaurants and accommodation establishments, all of which are to be found in this area along with unspoilt natural beauty and a quaint historical village.”

Although the Stanford Wine Route is still in its infancy with only eight members, Sandra feels that expansion is inevitable as more existing wineries join the fray, and more new producers are attracted to the cool climate and unique terroir of the area.

The public launch of the Stanford Wine Route will be held in November. The current members are: Misty Mountains Estate This is the first winery visitors will encounter when travelling from Hermanus on the R43 towards Stanford. The name comes from the fog that rises from the nearby Klein River lagoon and often shrouds the mountains in mist.

Exciting new developments are on the cards that include a deli, a cheese factory, a microbrewery and guest accommodation. The tasting room is open 6 days per week.

Sir Robert Stanford Estate The next winery along the R43 is situated about one kilometre before the town of Stanford.

Tradition, conservation and country hospitality rule the day at Sir Robert Stanford Estate.

Established in 1855, the farm used to be the food basket of the area, with the entrepreneur Sir Robert Stanford shipping fresh produce to Cape Town in his own cutter.

Due to owner Jan Malan's environmentally

8

friendly approach to farming, the more than 200 species of fynbos, a bounty of wildlife and vineyards manage to exist in total harmony.

Visitors are welcome to visit the wine shop / tasting room and enjoy a delicious freshly prepared meal at Madré’s Kitchen. And don’t forget to pop in to the quaint Stookhuis distillery and taste their famous Grappa. Open Thursday – Sunday from 08:00-16:00 for wine tasting, breakfast, lunch and tea/coffee. Call 028 341 0647 or visit www.robertstanfordestate.co.za.

Stanford Hills Right next door to Sir Robert Stanford Estate is Stanford Hills which epitomises laid-back country living. This child-friendly farm is owned by Peter and Jami Kastner, who grow vines, flowers and olives against the beautiful background of the Klein River Mountains. Their range of wines includes Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Shiraz and a highly acclaimed Pinotage.

The farm’s popular restaurant and wine tasting facility, The Tasting Room, forms the hub of the farm and is constantly packed with visitors.

The Tasting Room is open Thursday – Monday from 08:30-17:00 for wine tasting, breakfast and lunch. Call 028 341 0841 or visit www.stanfordhills.co.za.

Springfontein This large farm of almost 600ha lies on the opposite side of the Klein River lagoon and stretches all the way to the coast. Springfontein’s German owner Dr Johst Weber purchased the farm in 1994 and the cool, windy Walker Bay climate and limestone soils proved to bring out

the best in the Chenin Blanc and Pinotage, the grape varieties they decided to specialize in.

Winemaker Tariro Masayiti and horticulturist/viticulturist Hildegard Witbooi work side by side to coax the very best grapes from their unique terroir for their selection of handcrafted, award-winning wines. A great attraction at Springfontein is their excellent restaurant run by Michelin starred chef Jürgen Schneider and his partner Suzanne, while the new Springfontein Bar(n) which opened on 1 October, promises a new pairing experience with wine and snacks.

The tasting room is open 7 days a week and the restaurant is open for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, and for lunch from Thursday to Sunday.

Contact 028 341 0651.

Walker Bay Vineyards The rest of the wine farms are situated along the R326 towards Riviersonderend, the first of which is Walker Bay Vineyards, a boutique wine estate which is also home to the Birkenhead Brewery.

The winery conducts tours of the brewery and offers wine and beer tastings. There is also a pub/restaurant that serves up mouth-watering pub meals as well as spectacular views of the Klein River Mountains. Open Monday to Sunday from 10:00-17:00. Call 028 341 0013 or visit www.walkerbayestate.com.

Vaalvlei This is the smallest producer on the route with a mere 3 hectares under vines. The farm was established in 2005 by Naas Terblanche, a passionate conservationist and winemaker. The vines grow on predominantly sandstone and

koffieklip soils and comprise only two cultivars, Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz. Walker Bay, which can be seen from the vineyards, lends a cool maritime climate to the area which contributes to the production of elegant and classical wines.

Contact 028 341 0170 or 072 782 3431, or visit www.vaalvlei.co.za.

Raka Continuing up the valley on the R326 brings you to this family-owned cellar which has been producing award-winning wines for more than a decade. Owner Piet Dreyer bought the farm in 1982 and in 1999 established the first vineyards. In 2002 he decided to swap the ocean for the wine industry after spending more than three decades in the fishing industry. He named the farm and its wines after his beloved black fishing vessel, Raka.

The tasting room is open Monday to Friday from 09:00-17:00 and from 10:00-15:00 on Saturdays.

Call 028 341 0676 or visit www.rakawine.co.za.

Boschrivier Wines Right next door to Raka is Boschrivier Wines which is family-owned by the third generation of the De Villiers family. Their land comprises two farms, Remhoogte and Boschkloof, and lies at the foot of the picturesque Akkedisberg mountain range bordering the Klein River. The first farm, Remhoogte, hosts the vineyards from which Boschrivier wines are produced and the manor house has been turned into a wine house/coffee shop that is open to the public for wine tasting.

The tasting room is open Monday to Friday from 08:00 - 17:00, Saturday from 09:00-|17:00 and Sunday 10:00-13:00. Call 028 341 0630 or visit www.boschrivier.co.za.

NEWS

GOOD

Other tourist destinations in the area include Kleinrivier Cheese Farm, Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary and cruises on the Klein River.

Tertious van Deventer, owner of Wine Hoppers, Frieda Lloyd coordinator of the Hermanus Wine Route and PR manager of Hermanus Tourism and travel and wine writer Glynis van Rooyen attended the launch of this new wine tour initiative.

A hopping good idea for wine tourism

Wine tourism in Hermanus has taken another step forward with the launch of Wine Hoppers on Friday afternoon, when Mayor Nicolette BothaGuthrie cut the ribbon at their new premises.

Situated in the small fisherman’s cottage near the corner of Mitchell and Long Street which previously housed a bakery, Hermanus Wine Hoppers is a new initiative of local residents Tertious and Ilse van Deventer which offers hop on, hop off tours of the Hermanus Wine Route in three custom-designed safari vehicles.

Tertious says the idea for their new business was born after several wine tours in the company of his brother, who lives in the UK and is now a business partner. “As locals we have all taken visitors on a tour of the wine route at one time or another,” says Tertious. “But in order to enjoy the wine route responsibly, there always had to be one person who was the designated driver and who couldn’t drink. That meant that the driver had to miss out on all the fun. Now, with Hermanus Wine Hoppers, everyone can have a good time without worrying about driving home.”

Hermanus Wine Hoppers is specifically designed for wine lovers who want to explore the wine route at their own pace, and not necessarily in the company of a guided tour. All you have to do is purchase a day pass which gives you unlimited access to the safari vehicles which will be cruising up and down the wine route all day.

Once you have concluded your visit to one winery and are ready to move on, you simply hop back onto a Wine Hoppers vehicle and proceed to your next destination.

According to Tertious, there will be a Wine Hoppers vehicle passing by the wineries at 30 minute intervals and with a day pass you can

simply board the vehicles in the same way that you would catch a bus. “This gives visitors to the wine route independence and flexibility,” says Tertious. “If you’ve gone to a winery for wine tasting and decide to stay for lunch, you can do that and just catch a later shuttle without inconveniencing anyone.”

Invited guests got a taste of what Wine Hoppers has to offer during their launch on Friday afternoon. After the ribbon cutting, the group was bundled into the three vehicles and driven to Whalehaven for a chocolate and wine pairing, followed by tapas and wine tasting at La Vierge. “We already have some of the most beautiful vineyards, tasting facilities and restaurants right here in our valley,” says Tertious.

“All we want to do is to offer visitors a new way of experiencing and enjoying all the wine route has to offer.”

Rossi’s Italian Restaurant

Tertious adds that they hope to join hands with other role players in the tourism and hospitality industry to make the wine route more accessible to visitors. “We are already receiving tremendous support from various accommodation establishments and adventure companies who are referring clients to us,” he says.

Consensus among the guests on Friday afternoon was that the safari vehicles, which each seat nine people, are not only comfortable but also a lot of fun. “There’s a sense of adventure as soon as you step into the vehicle,” said Frieda Lloyd. “The views from the raised seats are wonderful and the vehicles perform well on dirt roads. With the emphasis on responsible drinking, Hermanus Wine Hoppers offers the ideal solution. It is an easy, fun and responsible way to tour our wine route.”

Die lekkerste biltong en droëwors in die Overberg!

028 313 1032 Swartdamweg Industriële gebied

Ma-Don 08:00 - 17:30 / Vry 08:00 - 18:00 Sat 08:00 - 14:00 / Son 09:00 - 12:00 GOOD

NEWS

9

Send us your news Send your SMS to 083 700 3319 and share your opinion about news and events.

EMAIL

dewaal@thehermanusnews.co.za

Look for us on & The Hermanus News

Alex Upholstery Alex 083 756 5202 Kurstan 071 534 8663 Office 028 312 3736 Email: zackjoshkf@gmail.com

9 Mimosa Street, Industrial Area Hermanus 7200

Buks Daffue

079 600 6399

• Steelworks • Palisades

• Canopies • Carports

ETC

parkrun: news you can use It’s for everyone: Whether you’re young or old, male or female, fit or unfit, able-bodied or not, you’re always welcome. It’s not about racing, it’s about running (or walking, at any speed) and gaining confidence to ultimately participate in more formal races.

Registering: Register on www.parkrun.co.za, print your bar code and turn up to take part wherever you want, whenever you want.

The course: The course is 5 km long and has been accurately measured with a professional measuring wheel.

It starts in the beautiful forest area near the Forest Adventure Centre past the entrance of the Bona Dea Estate and onto the grounds of Camphill School.

At the top of a small hill on a gravel road you will be greeted with amazing views of the mountains. Continue around the school clockwise and exit at the gate onto the gravel road before re-entering the forest. Then winding through the forest you arrive at a sneaky uphill climb which allows for a lovely decent to the finish at the Forest Adventure Centre.

Remember: The course is run on a mixture of gravel, tar and forest paths. Some sections of the course may accumulate mud, leaves and puddles after rain.

Dependent on availability, marshals will be at key sections of the course, or signs will be in place.

When running, take care on uneven surfaces whether on grass or on tarmac. Watch out for cyclists, other runners, pedestrians, children, dogs, wildlife, animals, vehicles, branches, bollards, posts and other obstacles around the course.

Please ensure that you are fit enough to walk, jog, run 5 km Remember to warm up before the run.

Runners pushing buggies are also welcome, but please take extreme care of other runners around you. If possible start from the back of the field and try to keep to one side of the main body of runners.

Getting there: Turn on to the R320 towards Caledon at the Sandbaai turn off past The Village Centre. Turn left at the Camphill turn off (one of the Hermanus Forest Adventure signs with a red flag should be visible). Follow the gravel road until you see the paintball sign on your left.

Earn discovery points: Discovery Vitality members 18 years and older can earn 500 points for participating in a parkrun event. Children six years and older who are dependents on their parents' Discovery Vitality membership can now also earn points for completing a parkrun. Just register for parkrun, go to ‘Manage my profile’ on any parkrun newsletter, link it to your Discovery account, print your bar code and have it scanned every time you run.

Wherever possible walk, jog or cycle to the start of the event. If you do have to drive, please consider car-sharing to reduce our impact on both the environment and other park users.

Please also watch out for other park users when arriving and leaving. Parking may be limited so try to arrive early.

Runners wishing to run with a dog are welcome, but please keep the dog on a short lead or harness and under control throughout the event.

Course Safety: Children under the age of eleven must be accompanied (within arm's reach) throughout the run by an adult.

Take care near roads and car parks - some vehicles drive very quickly. Please congregate away from the cars and be careful in particular if you have children. If you’re driving to the run, please drive carefully even if you’re late!

your time and uses the world record time for your sex and age group to produce a score (a percentage). This score allows you to compare your personal performance against other people's performances even though they might be a different age and a different sex to you - the higher the score the better the performance. The scores can also be compared across different race distances - to allow you to, for example, compare a 5km time against a marathon.

Results: All parkrun events use age grading to help athletes compare results. Age grading takes

parkrun international: The first ever event was in Bushy park, Teddington, UK, where 13 intrepid parkrunners got together on 2 October 2004. Now many thousands of runners are processed, websites updated and emails sent each week. The parkrun community is growing all the time – you will now find parkruns in Australia, Denmark, France, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, Poland, Russia, South Africa, USA. They are all based on the simple, basic principles formed from the start: weekly, free, 5km, for everyone, forever.

Child friendly dental services now available in Onrus Contact us to order your Personalised Rubber Stamps We offer a 24 hour service

Lindy will focus on providing dental care especially aimed at children.

“I practised as a dentist for a few years in London and when my husband and I moved to Hermanus I came to realise that there was no dental care available aimed specifically at children,” says Lindy.

According to her many children (and adults) are still scared to go to the dentist. “But visiting your dentist at least every six months is extremely important, especially for children.

“A lot of the problems we pick up with children’s teeth could very easily be avoided by regular visits. The aim should be on preventative management of your child’s dental health, rather than waiting for a problem to occur,” she says.

According to Lindy the way in which you work with children and their dental health does not differ greatly from that of adults. “I try to be friendly and open with children from the moment they walk into my office. Many times they are just scared and by building a relationship of trust it is so much easier to do the

10

necessary treatments.

“Children, and parents, will often be surprised that it is not always about injections and drilling.

Sometimes minor problems can be dealt with by simply using fluoride. When it does come to having work done on a child’s teeth I ensure that they are informed as to what I am going to do. It is important to explain to them what is happening as it calms the nerves.

option as they feel more confident and less scared at their next visit to the dentist,” says Louis.

Onrus Dental opened their new premises in 30 Main Road in September. They offer their children’s service on Wednesday afternoons.

You can reach them on 028 3161977.

“You must also always be kind and gentle and make it abundantly clear that the idea is not to hurt them but to help them. In case of an injection to numb the mouth we do apply a topical cream to numb the area and I ensure that the children do not see the injection or the needle. Sometimes we have to do the same for adults,” says Lindy.

According to Louis the practice does offer sedation in the chair for children who are too scared to have work done on their teeth or when major work needs to be done. “A specialist takes care of the sedation. When the work is done the child immediately wakes up and cannot remember what was done. This method is better than general anaesthetic as it has less of an impact on your body and you wake up immediately after the procedure.

“Especially with children this is sometimes a good

Drs Louis Lotter and Lindy Poole

NEWS

GOOD

Children in Hermanus can now smile both brighter and whiter with Dr Lindy Poole joining Dr Louis Lotter at his new Onrus Dental Centre.

Sport compiled by: Tony O’Hagan The Hermanus Cricket Club have pulled of a major coup by hosting a match between legends of South African cricket and their English counterparts. We may well see the likes of Adrian Kuiper, Brian McMillan, and Eric Simons representing the South African XI against an English XI, comprising legends such as Sir Ian Botham, Michael Vaughan and Andrew Strauss.

Player participation is still to be finalised but it should be a real festival of cricket. The match is due to take place on the 9th January, 2016 after the Test between South Africa and England at Newlands. So, as they say, in modern parlance, "save the date". .

In the meantime, the Hermanus Cricket Club continues to field 3 teams in the South Boland

Answers To Sports Quiz Hermanus News, 29th September 1. Name the Captain of the South African T20 cricket team?

Answer: Faf Du Plessis 2. Which team won the MTN8 soccer campioships played during September this year?

Answer: Ajax, Cape Town 3. Who is the most capped Springbok rugby player?

Answer: Victor Matfield 4. Who won the men’s singles at the recent UnIted States Open tennis championships?

Answe: Novak Djokovic 5. Who became the World No 1 ranked men’s golfer as at 21st September, 2015?

Answer: Jason Day (overtaken a week later

by Jordan Spieth)

International "Golden Oldies" to play at Cricket Club league with the 1st team playing in the premier division. Past winners of the Boland League, the 1st side finished 4th in the South Boland league last season and we wish them a successful season ahead. The competition is played on a 50 over format with fixtures on a home and away basis. In addition, Hermanus has an ''oldies '' team in the social league.

He is currently ranked No.1 in the world with Day at 2 and McIlroy at 3. But what a year for Spieth!!

A double major winner at The Masters and the U.S Open, he finished 4th at The Open and 2nd at the P.G.A. He also won the prestigious Fedex Cup contested by the world’s leading golfers. He has won 5 times on the PGA tour. At The Masters he tied the lowest score of 270 set by Tiger Woods (now ranked 310) in 1997. He is the youngest

caters for social membership at very affordable rates and any newcomers are welcome.

The popular, Hermanus business league has also commenced and comprises an open and over 35 division. There are 20 teams participating and the matches are played with 10 overs per side and will take place on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in the late afternoon.

The clubhouse has been "spruced" up with a new coat of paint and the venue itself has a bar,

Sports Quiz No.2 Here is a taste of our sports quiz which will be a sponsored corner in the weeks ahead with prizes for our readers. In the meantime try your hand at the following questions. submit your name, telephone number and answers via email to dewaal@thehermanusnews.co.za 1. Who was the Springbok captain against Scotland at the current World Cup? 2. What is the nickname of the English Premier League team, Arsenal?

3. Who is the alltime leading run scorer for the Proteas cricket team in the T 2 0 format?

4. Which country hosted the recent Presidents Cup golf event?

5. Name the boxer who is referred to as "Money"?

See answers in our next edition.

Jordan Spieth - The New "Tiger” There are a few pretenders to Tiger's throne, such as Rory McIlroy (4 Majors) and Jason Day (1 Major) but right now the man at the helm is the 22-year-old Jordan Spieth, who has had a phenomenal year on the golfing circuit.

lounge and braai area, together with television to watch the latest sporting events. The club

winner of the U.S. Open since Bobby Jones in 1923.

Get bowled over in Hermanus Bowls is played throughout the year at the club, but the official opening of the summer season took place recently and members are hoping for many sunny summer days on which to enjoy a game of bowls. In discussion with Christo Alheit (President) and Piet Meyer (Manager), it is evident that the club continues to be an active and thriving entity. With a membership of around 200, the club is the biggest in the Boland area.

Spieth has prize winnings of around $12m plus a Fedex Cup bonus of $10m, a tour record for a single year. He is playing with the same confidence that a younger Tiger Woods had in his heyday when Tiger was considered unbeatable. A by-product of Spieth's success is that his caddie, Michael Greller, a former teacher, is projected to earn around $2m this year (say R27m) which equates to the pro golfer ranked 39th on the money list.

The club has 3 greens and club bowls takes place on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons but the greens are also open for play on Friday and Sunday. Coaching clinics are free of charge and Monday is set aside specifically for this, with bowls supplied to assist beginners.

A tip for local golfers to improve their game Spieth "talks" to his ball after nearly every shot.

Maybe that's worth trying!

A first for the club is the Whale Festival Trips which is scheduled for the 24th October. The big event on the bowls calendar is the Ayala Cup

Tournament which is due to take place on the 14/15th January, 2016 and participants come from far and wide. This tournament was first held in 1927 and is South Africa's oldest continuouslyrun bowls event. The legacy of Ayala makes interesting reading and will be documented in a later edition of the Hermanus News.

There is also a well-run bowls outlet at the club, trading under the name Paul's Sports. The shop is owned by Paul Naylor and supplies all bowls equipment, apparel and accessories. The shop is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the week and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Paul is contactable on 083 596 2904.

The club also be hired as a venue for private functions.

Wishing all members "good bowling" for the summer season!

STEENKAMP KABINETWERKE KASTE VOLGENS U SPESIFIKASIES CUTOM-BUILD CUPBOARDS GRATIS ONTWERPE EN KWOTASIES FREE DESIGNS AND QUOTATIONS

Andre Steenkamp Jarina Park nr 1 Telefaks: 028 313 1939 Gideon van Wyk Singel Sel: 082 660 4455 Industiele area Na-ure: 028 316 3798 Hermanus E-pos: andres@vodamail.co.za GOOD

NEWS

11 11

NEWS

GOOD

The

T: 028 312 2038

News You Can Use

Gold for Hermanus beach Hermanus received a golden feather in its cap when a gold certificate together with its Blue Flag status was awarded to Grotto Beach on 6 October. Grotto is the only beach in the Western Cape that has received a Blue Flag status for 15 years in a row.

Both Kleinmond and Hawston also received Blue Flag status together with silver awards for receiving Blue Flag status for 10 consecutive years.

“Tourism is the life blood of the Overstrand.

Tourism is our biggest economic contributor and therefore it is with pride that we once again receive Blue Flag status for three of our beaches,” says mayor Nicolette Botha-Guthrie.

Two whale watching boats of Dyer Island Cruises that operate from Kleinbaai were also awarded Blue Flags. “It is a very special for us to receive Blue Flag status for our boats. It signifies that we are rewarded for the care and dedication with which we look after our marine resources,” says Wilfred Chivel, owner of Dyer Island Cruises.

Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom said at the awards ceremony the beaches of South Africa are a precious legacy that should be kept clean, be protect and conserved. “In South Africa a

holiday is defined by spending time at the coast.

We want people to know that South Africa boasts some of the most pristine beaches in the world. If we look after the environment more tourists will come, more tourists mean more jobs”.

What are the criteria?

• Environmental Education and Information - Information about the Blue Flag must be displayed.

- Environmental education activities must be offered and promoted to beach users.

- Information about bathing water quality must be displayed.

- Information relating to local eco-systems and environmental phenomena must be displayed.

- A map of the beach indicating different facilities must be displayed.

- A code of conduct that reflects appropriate laws governing the use of the beach and surrounding areas must be displayed.

• Water Quality - The beach must fully comply with the water quality sampling and frequency requirements.

- The beach must fully comply with the standards and requirements for water quality analysis.

- No industrial, waste-water or sewage-related

What does a Blue Flag mean?

A Blue Flag is a global award given to beaches, boats and marinas that meet strict criteria in the fields of safety, cleanliness, amenities and environmental standards. The programme, now in its 15th year, is managed by local authorities and WESSA (the Wildlife and Environmental Society of South Africa).

There are currently 84 sites nationwide of which 49 are in the Western Cape.

This voluntary eco-label requires that beaches meet 27 criteria spanning four aspects of coastal management: water quality, environmental education and information, environmental management and safety and

services. The status indicates that the beaches are clean, have adequate ablution facilities and parking, are environmentally sound, are safe and secure to visit and adhere to international safety and tourism standards.

The Blue Flag initiative was established in France in 1985 for their coastal municipalities.

Since then the status has grown and there are now over 3 450 Blue Flag beaches and marinas in 41 countries around the world. The Blue Flag programme works towards sustainable development worldwide and aims to create awareness for the public, decision-makers and tourist operators.

W BA

-

-

discharges should affect the beach area.

The beach must comply with the Blue Flag requirements for the microbiological parameters for faecal coli bacteria (E.coli) and intestinal enterococci/streptococci.

The beach must comply with the Blue Flag requirements for physical and chemical parameters.

• Environmental Management - The local authority/beach operator should establish a beach management committee.

- The local authority/beach operator must comply with all regulations affecting the location and operation of the beach.

- Sensitive area management.

- The beach must be clean.

- Algae vegetation or natural debris should be left on the beach.

- Waste disposal bins/containers must be available at the beach in adequate numbers and they must be regularly maintained.

- Facilities for the separation of recyclable waste materials should be available at the beach.

- An adequate number of toilet or restroom facilities must be provided.

- The toilet or restroom facilities must be kept clean.

- The toilet or restroom facilities must have controlled sewage disposal.

- There should be no unauthorised camping, driving or dumping of waste on the beach.

- Access to the beach by dogs and other domestic animals must be strictly controlled.

- All buildings and beach equipment must be properly maintained.

- Coral reefs in the vicinity of the beach must be monitored.

- A sustainable means of transportation should be promoted in the beach area.

• Safety and Services - An adequate number of lifeguards and/or lifesaving equipment must be available at the beach.

- First aid equipment must be available on the beach.

- Emergency plans to cope with pollution risks

-

must be in place.

There must be management of beach users and events to prevent conflicts and accidents.

There must be safety measures in place to protect beach users.

A supply of drinking water should be available at the beach.

Wheelchair access and accessibility features must be in place for at least one Blue Flag beach in each municipality.

National Marine Week is celebrated from 12 to 18

Overstrand Mayor Nicolette Botha-Guthrie and Minister of Tourism Derek Hanekom at the announcement on Grotto beach of the Blue Flag beaches for this season.

For Door, Window, Folding Doors and much More

Walker Bay Aluminium Hermanus Cell: 083 652 3470 Fax: 086 670 8104 E-maiil: walkerbayaluminium@gmail.com

NEWS

GOOD

12