The Village News 14 June 2016

Village

NEWS The

14 June 2016

Cape Whale Coast

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A fine start to FynArts

Since the official opening of Hermanus FynArts 2016 on Thursday 10 June, the town has been buzzing with excitement as locals and visitors alike embrace this unique home-grown festival with unprecedented interest and enthusiasm.

while gallery owners got busy organising the displays.

Many of the galleries had openings over the weekend which drew large groups of festival goers and local art lovers, and several gallery owners also reported excellent sales.

Having grown steadily since the inaugural festival in 2013, Hermanus FynArts 2016 is offering more events than ever before, selling more tickets than ever before and drawing more visitors than ever before. It seems that this young festival, now in its fourth year, is no longer taking baby steps but has taken a giant leap forward.

With the excitement mounting, ticket sales rocketed for the diverse offering of musical concerts, talks, demonstrations and workshops. Many of the major musical performances had sold out weeks ago.

According to Festival Director Mary Faure more than 720 tickets were sold (compared to about 250 in 2013) for this year’s opening concert at the Dutch Reformed Church, featuring clarinetist Junnan Sun and the FynArts Orchestra conducted by Richard Cock. Both the afternoon and evening performances of Last Night at the Proms were sold out, along with Louis Armstrong and Friends, The Lyrical Clarinet concert, Kamal Khan’s Piano Recital and the music and poetry evening, Into the Blue.

As in previous years, the beginning of FynArts was heralded by the installation of the Sculpture on the Cliffs Exhibition last week, ahead of the official opening on Saturday 11 June. The spectacular sculptures that now adorn the cliffs around Gearing’s Point will remain in place for a whole year for all to enjoy.

‘Traveller’ by Jaco Sieberhagen

PHOTO: De Waal Steyn

The festive atmosphere spread through town as local galleries prepared for their special FynArts exhibitions. Artists were seen arriving with their works,

Tickets for the food and wine events were also snapped up early, including the Gala Dinner at Benguela Cove

and the FynArts Supper Club at the Grobbelaar Hall. Mary says the talks and workshops are also well supported this year, with several painting, drawing & sketching, creative writing and jewellery design workshops fully booked.

The good news is that the 10day FynArts Festival is still on until 19 June and there are still tickets available for various not-to-be-missed events that include musical performances, talks, demonstrations and workshops. One of the highlights on the festival programme is the heartwarming Youth Day Concert, Peter and the Wolf, narrated

by Katlego Maboe and performed by the Cape Town Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.

Book your tickets now before it’s too late!

The main FynArts exhibits that can be enjoyed for free are at the Windsor Hotel, The Marine, the Municipal Auditorium banquet hall, the Synagogue and most of the art galleries.

Programme and bookings: Hermanus Tourism office, Mitchell Street (028 312 2629), www.hermanusfynarts.co.za or www.webtickets.co.za - Hedda Mittner

Magistrate’s Court an eyesore

The exterior probably has not been painted or repaired since the turn of the century (19th). Internally the abject neglect leaves much

to be desired. As does the forgotten “garden” at its entrance.

I was under the impression that Hermanus prided itself in being a beacon of high standards when it involved its community and public spaces.

For the love of beige

Thought I would just mention how much I enjoy Murray Stewart’s column!

beige and zip your lip!” Only now do I understand that it was in fact a compliment!

As the parent of three sons, I have had the same amount of weddings to attend as the mother of the groom. I asked my best friend for advice regarding what I should wear.

As Mr Stewart says, beige is the foundation of all colours and a very comfortable tone to have around from which to build one’s colour character.

Joss Garrett

The Village NEWS is published fortnightly and is available every second Tuesday (Tuesday is NEWS day!) at all major retail centres from Kleinmond to Gansbaai, including Hermanus Pick n Pay and the Village Square, the Tourism Offices, restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, wine farms as well as various selected shops. If you are unable to find a copy, please contact us on 028 312 4424 / 083 700 3319 or visit us at our office at 6 Royal Street, Hermanus.

Editorial Comment

Her wise advice was “wear

I’m almost sure that nobody will assume responsibly. That would be a pity. Surely it’s either Justice or Municipal?

As they say in legal circles, “I rest my case, my Lord. “ Steele Brummer Voëlklip

Well done Let me congratulate you and the team for the outstanding subject matter, quality of paper, clarity of photographs, standard of language and editing in your FREE newspaper for the area.

Well done and keep up the good work!

Become a participant

Now in its fourth year, the effects of FynArts can be felt throughout town.

With a festival spirit resonating and scores of tourists and locals walking around with their cameras, primed to take snapshots of the abundance of art throughout town, this year’s festival can be declared a resounding success.

It is telling of the quality of a festival when visitors brave the cold, and at times the rain, to partake in the festivities. Galleries and restaurants are brimming and the sculptures on the cliffs are drawing as much attention as the whales in the bay.

As a community we take our hats off to the festival committee and in particular to Mary Faure, the driving force behind the celebration.

News You Can Use

6 Royal Street, Hermanus 028 312 4424 Publisher De Waal Steyn 083 700 3319 dewaal@ thehermanusnews.co.za

Content Editor Hedda Mittner 083 645 3928 hedda@hermanus.co.za

Elizabeth Gravenor

Ombudsman

By Thursday afternoon, the day before the start of Hermanus FynArts, traffic in town suddenly started moving slower because of all the cars, and if you happened to find yourself in one of the shops or restaurants in town you could easily tell it was busier than normal.

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Village

Letters

14 June 2016

Dismally dingy, and decrepit. That about sums up the current state of the Hermanus Magistrates building.

The Village NEWS would like to publish your thoughts and concerns about issues that are important to you.

All Letters to the Editor should be accompanied with the writer's name and contact details for verification. All letters are subject to editing for newspaper style and clarity, without changing the meaning of the content.

Letters should be limited to about 300 words. We reserve the right not to publish all letters received.

Send your letters to news@thehermanusnews. co.za

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To see town so busy during winter supports the notion that Hermanus is indeed a paradise for the arts.

But in order to keep Hermanus as a destination of choice we need to also ensure the safety and security of both residents and visitors. Hermanus Connect recently revealed a proposed Security Master Plan to coordinate crime prevention in Hermanus (read more on P 5).

The plan, which was met with approval by the SAPS as well as the Municipality, is an essential tool to ensure that the area stays a safe and secure environment. With social media platforms awash with reports of incidents of crime in the area, it is important for each and every one of us to become part of the solution to the crime problem.

We implore our readers to become part of their local neighbourhood watches and to also actively support the SAPS and Law Enforcement in their efforts. Become a participant rather than a statistic.

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.

He can be reached on 011 484 3612/8, or via e-mail at pressombudsman@ ombudsman.org.za or visit www.presscouncil.org.za

Marketing Kathy Mulock-Bentley 083 581 7219 kathy@chartwellsupport.co.za

Graphic Designer & Layout Artist Nickey Jackson 079 408 7722 nickey1094@gmail.com

Annemarie de Lange assisted in knitting 20cm X 20cm squares to make blankets for the underprivileged. The Overstrand Municipality is appealing to all residents to drop off any surplus wool to knit blankets from, for Mayor Nicolette Botha-Guthrie’s Mandela Day Campaign on 18 July.

The wool can be dropped off at the Municipal offices in Magnolia Street. The aim is to have enough wool to knit 67 blankets for those who do not have blankets this winter. Annemarie de Lange (left) was one of the many who participated in knitting squares at Fusion Restaurant.

“Residents at Kidbrooke Place have also started knitting in all earnest and are awaiting more wool,” said Nicolette. For more information, contact Elize van Zyl at 028 313 8058.

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26 JANUARY 14 June 2016 2016

Waiting for the winter rains A weekend of rain and the acceptable level of the region’s water sources should not lull residents of the Overstrand into complacency.

Unless the region receives a significant amount of rain over the next few months, the Overstrand could be heading to what the South African Weather Service (SAWS) refers to as a “meteorological drought”.

Although the Overstrand is fortunate not to be in the same position as many other towns and regions in South Africa, residents would do well to become and remain waterwise.

According to their website, the SAWS defines drought on the basis of the degree of dryness in comparison to normal or average amounts of rainfall for a particular area or place and the duration of the dry period.

Less than 75% of normal rainfall is regarded as a severe meteorological drought, and less than 80% of normal rainfall will cause crop and water shortages. Normal rainfall for a particular place is calculated over a 30-year period.

Over the past 70 years, an average rainfall of 609.7 mm was measured at the Hermanus Magnetic Observatory. The average of the past 30 years was approximately 629 mm per year.

Although the Overstrand received above-average

rainfall in 2012-2014, the HMO measured only 466.6 mm (less than 75% of the 30year average) in 2015 and the total for this year until the end of May stands at 162.6 mm (January 28.7 mm, February 26.8 mm, March 59.8 mm, April 34.2 mm and May 13.1 mm).

Until 9 June, 233 mm of rain was measured at the Hamilton Russell weather station in 2016.

Compared to an 18-year average of 841 mm, the area still needs approximately 600m this year to reach the annual average.

According to Johan Montgomery of Hamilton Russell Vineyards, the lowest rainfall they recorded in the past 18 years was 531 mm in 2000. The highest was 1187 mm in 2013.

In terms of temperatures, this June is shaping up to be a bit warmer than June 2015.

The warmest day of June 2015 was the 13th (23 °C).

There were 20 days where the minimum temperature was below 10 °C. Last week the Overstrand experienced temperatures of 25.35 °C on Tuesday (7 June) and 29.4 °C on Wednesday (8 June). Until the 9th of June, there had been four days where the minimum temperature was below 10 °C. Montgomery explained that from an agricultural perspective, the region is faced with the following

problems: A possible winter rainfall shortage; seed germination and the growth of seedlings are under pressure because of a lack of moisture in the ground; and as a result of higher temperatures the fruit trees and vines have not entered their dormant period and this affects the planning and management of the pruning season.

“We are either going to experience a very dry year or we are going to have a wet late winter, spring and early summer,” Montgomery predicted.

Riana Steenekamp, spokesperson of the Overstrand Municipality, emphasised that there is no need for water restrictions yet but implored the public to use water sparingly.

“The watering of gardens is not allowed between 09:00 and 17:00,” she said.

“Water restrictions will be considered in areas where the levels of water resources reach 40%.

Dam levels and boreholes are being monitored carefully compared to usage to ensure that water restrictions will be applied in time.”

Some of the boreholes in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley were affected by cable theft and vandalism and are currently being repaired, but this is not affecting water supply to town.

- De Waal Steyn

Water situation in the Overstrand Bettysbaai/Rooi Els Kleinmond Fisherhaven to Voëlklip Stanford Gansbaai/De Kelders Gansbaai/Uilenkraalsmond Pearly Beach Baardskeerdersbos Buffelsjagsbaai

Buffelsrivierdam: 95% Palmiet River: Flow of river is still strong De Bos Dam: 61% Seven boreholes in Hemel-en-Aarde valley, four boreholes at Gateway Stanford fountain (oog) and two Kouevlakte boreholes Klipgat and Grotto fountains Koekemoer Dam: 100% Pearly Beach Dam: 72.5% Two boreholes One borehole

Water-saving tips o Install a low-flow shower head and tap aerators on all taps . o Flush toilets only when necessary. o Install a multi-flush or dual-flush mechanism in the toilet. A multi-flush device allows the user to choose exactly how much water goes to waste when pressing the handle. o Plant water-wise indigenous plants. o Water gardens only in early morning or the evening and only when necessary. o Install garden drip irrigation on flower beds and sprayers on lawns. o Collect rainwater for re-using on the garden or washing the car. o Use a broom instead of a hosepipe when cleaning driveways or patios. o Insulate hot water pipes so that not too much water is wasted when waiting for water to get hot. o Cover your swimming pool to reduce water evaporation.

Source: City of Cape Town website

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14 June 2016

Guided walks in Fernkloof South Africa’s scenic wonders are legendary and it is one of the most important reasons for visiting our country and also the Cape Whale Coast. Our mountains, forests and shorelines attract many travellers and motivate people to settle here.

CHANGING THE LANDSCAPE OF HERMANUS Construction on the new Whale Coast Village Mall is underway in all earnest. The ground work started during the second week of May and is expected to last well into August. The construction area shows the extent of the 30 000 m² mall that is expected to open its doors in October 2017. More than 60% of the available retail space has been let.

Wit’s End

By Murray Stewart

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PICK N PAY HERMANUS! Pick n Pay Hermanus is celebrating their 49th birthday. As part of their birthday celebrations, staff members gathered at Sandbaai beach on Saturday, 4 June to do a beach clean-up. “We’ll be celebrating our birthday for six weeks,” says Candice Martin, client services manager. “Our aim is not to receive, but rather to give back to our community.”

Fernkloof Nature Reserve is listed on TripAdvisor as one of the top three things to do in Hermanus. The latest review describes Fernkloof as a little jewel with well maintained walking trails with good signage and varying degrees of difficulty covering up to 60 kilometres.

This jewel is not just for the enjoyment of international guests but also the locals.

Visitors have remarked about the good views and peaceful feeling when walking amongst the fynbos.

Yet few people know about the guided tours that are available without any charge. The Overstrand Municipality employs four field guides who have completed field guide training and basic first aid.

Anathi Makhendlala, Oswin Arendse, Cameron Esau and Luzoko Zondani are available to accompany hikers, explain the environment and offer general assistance. The four men are fit and know the area well, thanks to the assistance of Botanical Society members who share

knowledge and information.

Guesthouses, hotels and B&B’s are welcome to make use of this service and should recommend these walks to their clients. Locals are very welcome to make use of this service as well. The field guides can be found at the

visitor centre in Fernkloof at the top of the tar road where the different walks start. Hiking can be enjoyed all year round weather permitting and the guides make it even easier for all to enjoy the picturesque environment that is so unique to Hermanus.

- Frieda Lloyd

The alphabet soup of C.R.I.M.E I love my crime, and apparently millions around the world agree. Crime is the answer.

Whether it’s CSI, NCIS, or Hawaii Five-0, the cocktail recipe is pretty standard and we just gulp it down.

However, there are a few essentials when stirring up one of these episodes.

Firstly, discovering a body must happen before the theme music and opening titles. Whether it’s a couple of teenagers playing tonsil hockey in the bushes, a drunk hobo rummaging through a telephone booth, or a strange pong around the scanner/printer, hours are spent inventing novel, if not entirely plausible opening scenarios.

Secondly, politically correct casting. Male, female, Asian, Hispanic, black, white, Muslim, Jew or Catholic, the more diverse the better. The odd atheist, cross-dresser or dwarf is chucked in for good measure. However, the

basic requirements for the female detectives are that they should be outrageously attractive, devastatingly lethal, and must prefer wearing plunging necklines to murder scenes.

Thirdly, the lingo. On arrival at the crime scene one of the detectives must say, “What ya got?” Thereafter it’s a bowl of alphabet soup.

The ME establishes the TOD at about 18.00 GMT. COD looks like a GSW, TnT (gunshot wound, throughand-through), and he’ll confirm after the PM. The drugs found require notifying the DEA, the CIA and obviously the DA. In the mirrored interrogation room at least one suspect gets to say, “What? You’re not suggesting that I killed her?” Indignation accompanies this outburst, but unruffled and oozing conciliation, the stock answer from above the cleavage is something like, “Just eliminating you as a suspect, sir”.

Now an episode without a chase is as unlikely as Steve Hofmeyr and Julius Malema singing Karaoke duets. It is astounding how quickly one of the dicks can manage to run or drive round the block to the other end of the alley, before the perp even knew he was going there. These guys are sharp!

At some stage a door needs to be kicked in, followed by gun-wielding dicks doing the tango from room to room while shouting for Claire, who obviously gets around a lot. Instead, they usually find a corpse, which facilitates another team to pitch up and ask, “What ya got?”

If the suspect actually answers the knocking, the door-kicking scene is deemed unnecessary. The absence of a search warrant entitles the suspect to be threatened with the IRS, the DEA, the Health Department/Immigration or any other intimidating anagram. This usually does the trick and the props

department doesn’t have to replace the door.

Then there’re the incredible computers that analyze the evidence. Male lab technicians must look a bit nerdy, and the females can be unattractive. Scriptwriters often create an ebb and flow of sexual tension between some of these labcoated types, so that even the ugly ones get a stab at romance, albeit while hovering over a dismembered corpse or a bowl of stomach contents.

From an i-phone photo of a street scene they can pinpoint a car number plate three blocks away from the reflection in the butcher’s window. They can also identify almost everyone in shot with this amazing Face Recognition Thingy. Within seconds up pops each person’s mug shot and criminal history on a screen the size of a small caravan.

With fingerprints, the word ‘partial’ needs to be said at least once for intrigue.

Similarly, a telephone recording can miraculously reveal a multitude of clues. To listen to background sounds behind the panic-stricken caller, the audio technician is inevitably asked, “Can you clean this up?” No problem.

After this wizard of the wireless waveforms fiddles with dials and switches, we can hear what make of cars are driving past, conversations from passing pedestrians, and the platform announcement from four blocks away that the 5.15 train is now leaving. Amazing!

Still, despite everything, these take-away cocktails of gore, tears and trauma have TV watchers by their collective Brazilians, and who can blame them really? Crime certainly pays. Ask the producers and the actors.

With all these innovations, imagine how good Colombo or Miss Marple would have been.

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Drive to keep Hermanus safe

“It is our aim to bring back pride to being a member of the SAPS and also to make the communities we serve proud of us. It is our duty to create a safe and secure environment and we want to do that by working together with all the stakeholders,” says brig.

Donovan Heilbron, SAPS cluster commander for the Overberg.

Donovan gave some insight into the crime situation in the area at the presentation of a Security Master Plan for Hermanus, hosted by Hermanus Connect, a joint initiative of the Hermanus Rate Payers’ Association, the Business Chamber and various other role-players.

“There are a magnitude of challenges in fighting crime, but there is a lot that can be done in preventing it. The SAPS in the Overberg Cluster that ranges from Grabouw to Villiersdorp, Struisbaai, Hermanus and Kleinmond, has

brought down the number of criminals that were on the loose from 484 to 148. We also have an arrest rate of 80%,” says Donovan.

Freddy Cronjé of Hermanus Public Protection (HPP) says since the security cameras in and around the CBD have been installed, huge successes have been made in curbing crime. “HPP Guards have arrested 63 people since the beginning of the year,” says Freddy.

A total of 16 cameras will be installed at a cost of more than R1,3 million. Eleven of the cameras will be in the CBD, one in Sandbaai and two on Rotary Way. Retired security expert Theuns Coetzee presented a Security Master Plan that aims to draw together all entities in Hermanus that have a stake in fighting crime. “The aim of the plan is to have a unified and co-

ordinated approach to combatting crime. The plan includes the SAPS, security companies, Municipal Law Enforcement, the Community Police Forum, Neighbourhood Watches and Emergency Services.

The idea is not to interfere in the strategic planning or day-to-day operations of any of these entities. It is aimed at co-ordinating their individual efforts into a system where there is effective sharing of intelligence and information.

Each of these entities play a separate but important role in the Master Plan.”

Theuns, a former Colonel in the SANDF, has extensive knowledge of security matters after serving in the National Information Agency and managing security services in amongst others Afghanistan, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.

According to him the

Security Master Plan was presented to both the SAPS and the Municipality and it was met with approval.

Donovan said a crime threat analysis was done by the SAPS in the Overberg. “It has shown that there are a number of crimes that need our attention. These include drugs, illegal firearms, poaching, corruption and contact crimes such as assault and robbery.

“House break-ins in the area are out of control. The only way in which we can combat this is by visible policing and by educating residents on being more vigilant and security conscious. There are many instances where residents leave valuables in plain sight or leave their doors, windows or garage doors open. This will invariably attract criminals,” says Donovan.

He says the SAPS has

identified crime hotspots and the times when crimes are committed. “It is of no use that we do patrols during the week when we know most crimes happen on Saturdays and Sundays. In order to be effective, we need to establish partnerships with all the role players in order to coordinate our efforts. We need to have access to information that will assist us in bringing criminals to book.”

Donovan says residents can expect to see more stopand-search operations as well as a crack-down on the illegal sale of alcohol.

Corrupt members of the SAPS will also be rooted out.

“We have already arrested members in Villiersdorp and Stanford and more will follow.”

Director of Protection Services for the Municipality, Neville Michaels, says Law Enforcement will relentlessly

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pursue those who break the law. “We have apprehended 108 unlicensed drivers and fined 399 people driving unlicensed vehicles. With some 180 new drivers passing their driving tests every three months and more than 80 000 extra vehicles coming into town over busy weekends, we have our work cut out for us.”

Neville says illegal businesses and hawking will not be tolerated and the new Municipal Court will be used to prosecute those breaking By-Laws. “We have already prosecuted 40 self-appointed and illegal car washers in town.”

The Security Master Plan will now be further refined by amongst others the Community Policing Forum and role-players will be invited to take part and comment on it.

– De Waal Steyn

Astronomy Centre to open up heavens Despite objections from Whale Coast Conservation, the Hermanus Astronomy Club (HAC) is positive that construction of the new Astronomy Centre will continue.

According to Pierre de Villiers of HAC, the proposed centre will be the only one of its kind in South Africa and will become a draw-card for visitors to Hermanus. It will be located close to the existing viewing point on Rotary Way. “The centre will not only focus on night time observation but will also focus strongly on daytime astronomy, with at least two solar telescopes that can be used during the day,” says Pierre.

According to him the Astronomy Centre will consist of a three-tiered amphitheatre catering for at least 50 people for night-time star gazing, or daytime astronomy or fynbos talks. There will also be a sunrise viewing wall, a celestial

sphere depicting the 20 best-known celestial objects and a number of sundials of different designs.

HAC was awarded a R1 million grant by the National Lotteries Board (NLB) for the construction of the Hermanus Observatory and Amphitheatre.

Solar panels with batteries and an inverter will provide electricity and gas for heating. Water supply will come from tanks buried in the berms and two biodegradable eco-toilets with a waste storage facility is planned.

“In order to not disturb the natural surroundings, the outer walls are either bermed and planted with indigenous plants or clad with sandstone. There will also be Solstice and Equinox sunrise and sunset viewing slots in the amphitheatre.

Seating in the amphitheatre will be made from

hardwood.

“Granite tablets, like the information tablets at the Gearing’s Point sundials, will be affixed to all the vertical interior surfaces and will be engraved with educational themes, including milestones in astronomy starting with Aristarchus in 297 BCE, information on the moon, our nearest neighbour, and its role in solar and lunar eclipses and its dominant influence on tides, and our galaxy and the milky way explaining our place in the universe,” says Pierre.

The amphitheatre will have sufficient space for at least three equatorially mounted telescopes for night-time viewing. A sunrise viewing block will form part of an analemmatic sundial so that the viewer’s shadow will indicate the correct time.

However, according to Whale Coast Conservation (WCC) they fully support the

HAC's plans to develop such a centre, but not in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve.

WCC has written a letter to the municipal manager pointing out reasons why Fernkloof Nature Reserve land may not legally be used for purposes other than those for which the reserve was proclaimed.

According to Rob Fryer, General Manager of WCC,

they requested that the Overstrand Municipality identifies a site outside of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve on which the centre can be developed.

“There are many reasons why we object to the proposed construction area.

These include that the Fernkloof Management Plan does not permit use of the Reserve for an astronomy

centre. The Municipality also needs to produce evidence that the centre does not negatively affect the survival of any species or significantly disrupt the integrity of the ecological systems of the reserve.”

The timeframe for comments on the proposed centre ended on Friday 10 June.

– De Waal Steyn

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What’s cooking in our valley

Restaurant News

By Hedda Mittner

If you like dining out to be a bit of an adventure, head out to the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley this month. The Restaurant @ Newton Johnson, which chef Eric Bulpitt elevated to Top 10 Eat Out Award status in 2014, has re-opened after their winter break. But sadly Eric and his team will be leaving at the end of September to start an exciting new venture - the opening of a brandnew restaurant on Avondale Estate in Paarl Valley on 1 November.

Over at Creation Wines in Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, the tasting venue remains as busy as ever and they continue to set the trend with their innovative food and wine pairings. They cater for the whole family and visitors are offered

varied choices ranging from a three course pairing menu which changes weekly, to a cheese or charcuterie pairing, paradoxical chocolate and wine pairing, the Creation secret pairing which comprises five courses and five wines, and even a non-alcoholic pairing of tea and canapés and a young adults’ menu for nondrinking guests.

the 2014 Reserve Merlot were also selected as Grand Cru National Champions in their respective classes.

The best way to sample a wide range of Creation wines, remains the everpopular 8 course tapas pairing, which has recently been tweaked by the Creation culinary team to meticulously complement 10 different Creation wines. Five of these were recently awarded Top 100 SA Wines status while the Creation 2014 Syrah Grenache and

Equally delightful is the fynbos garden surrounding the tasting venue, which now forms the background to award-winning sculptor Gavin Risi’s remarkable sculptures constructed from copper and galvanised wire.

During our visit last week, Gavin was installing the last sculpture for this exhibition which forms part of the

Two groups of invited guests had the opportunity to sample these delights last week during an extended tapas and wine pairing session presented by Creation marketing director, Carolyn Martin.

FynArts festival.

“As dedicated supporters of the arts, we are delighted to curate this exhibition and to participate in this joyous festival again,” said Carolyn.

During FynArts Carolyn will also be sharing her skills in flavour profiling by demonstrating the art of

wine and food pairing with the Creation culinary team at the MacBrothers Pop-Up kitchen in the Whale Coast Hotel on 16 June, at 15:00. Creation will also be teaming up with The Eatery to present a Food and Wine Pairing Dinner on 17 June, at 18:30. Contact Dieter Odendaal on 082 659 2318 or dieter@creationwines.com

The Creation landscape forms the perfect background to these spectacular sculptures by Gavin Risi.

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Right next door to Creation is Domaine des Dieux (‘Place of the gods’), a boutique wine farm with a quaint little tasting room perched on a ridge among the vineyards. They also produce award-winning wines and are especially known for their Methode Cap Classique.

Bridget Bartleman, who was the chef at The Milkwood restaurant in Onrus, now runs the Domaine des Dieux tasting room. They offer a cheese and wine pairing and exclusive themed lunches once a month. On Father’s Day, 19 June, Bridget will be hosting a three course food and wine pairing lunch, ‘France to Hemel-en-Aarde’.

There are only 25 seats at this intimate and romantic venue, so make sure to book. Winter opening hours: Tuesday Sunday 11:00 – 16:00. Contact 028 313 2126 or tastingroom@ domainedesdieux.co.za

It seems Hemel-en-Aarde is the place to be on Father’s Day, as Norah Hudson of ELL Ethical Eatery on the Spookfontein wine farm will also be hosting a special Father’s Day lunch on Sunday. This is a wonderful place to relax in beautiful

surroundings – both the architecture and interior design of the venue are spectacular and the setting provides some of the best views of the valley.

ELL will also be open on Friday evening, 17 June for a

special event offering wine, food and music from one of South Africa’s premier singersongwriters, Robin Auld.

Booking is essential for these events. Contact 073 067 7936 or hudson.norah@gmail.com

Fusion Restaurant Village Square Waterfront Piazza 028 312 4277

Oskars Village Square Market Street 028 312 3873 Paradiso Village Square Piazza 028 313 1153

Rossi’s Italian Restaurant

Europa Village Square Waterfront Piazza 028 312 4377

Running Rabbit Eastcliff Shopping Centre 028 312 1515

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14 June 2016

gazing through the Centre’s telescopes. Book with Laura on 028 316 4453 / 083 651 7721 or dun@whalemail.co.za

Wednesday 15 & 22 June • Supper & Movie Nights: Join South Hill wine estate in the Elgin Valley every Wednesday evening for sundowners at 18:00, supper at 19:00 and movie screening at 20:00. R135 pp all inclusive. The movie on 15 June is The Revenant (2015), starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hardy. Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Oscar for this role and the movie also won Oscars for Best Director and Best Cinematography, as well as three Golden Globe Awards including Best Motion Picture.

The movie on 22 June is Bridge of Spies (2015) starring Tom Hanks and directed by Steven Spielberg. Stay-over packages and babysitting facilities available. Contact 021 844 0333 or events@southhill.co.za for more details, to book your seats or to be included on their movie mailing list.

Thursday 16 & 23 June • Rotary Club of Hermanus: Weekly meetings every Thursday at Mollergren Park, at 19:00.

Visitors welcome. Contact Ian Wallace on 082 895 8738 or Metcalf Fick on 082 568 2193.

Thursday 16 – Sunday 19 June

• Greyton Classic: This MTB & Trail Run event is going to be a fun-filled adventure long weekend for the whole family at The Oaks Estate in Greyton. There will be a variety of events to take part in, including mountain biking, trail running and even a two-day stage race. Why not do it all? Kids can also enter their own smaller stage race. Get all the details at www.greytonclassic.co.za or call 021 850 0082 / 021 850-0183. Enter online at www.webentries.co.za/entries • Napier Patatfees: The scarecrows along Napier’s streets will welcome visitors to this funfilled weekend festival. Fine cuisine can be sampled in the numerous restaurants, outstanding wines of the Overberg estates can be tasted and there will be entertainment for the whole family. Highlights this year will include a 21km half marathon, 10km run, 4km fun run/walk, 800m disabled track race, 1.2km disabled wheelchair race and 25m nappy dash, a trail run, mountain bike races (60km, 45km, 30km & 15km), veteran tractor & vintage car show, Harley Davidson motorcycle show, craft markets, live music, “langarm” dancing, fresh local produce, food stalls, a mardi gras and much more! Contact Frans on 082 675 1311 or Annette on 082 418 7629, or visit www.napierpatatfees.co.za for all the details.

Friday 17 & 24 June • Bhuki Café: Enjoy tea, coffee and eats at the Hermanus Library, every Friday, 09:0011:30.

• The Hermanus Country Market: Next to the cricket field, Fairways Avenue, from 09:0013:00. Stunning food, fresh and wholesome goodies.

• ‘Kolwyntjie-Teetuin’: Senior citizens in the area are invited to enjoy a sweet treat and tea or coffee at the Service Centre (‘Dienssentrum’) of the Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus for only R30, between 09:30 and 11:30.

Saturday 18 June • Penguin Plunge: Get ready to plunge at 12:00 on the riverside of King Street in Stanford. If you are too scared to be a penguin, come be a supporting chicken bring family, friends, foes & furry kids (on leashes please). The traditional Penguin Plunge is a fun day that raises funds for the soup kitchen for the elderly in the Stanford community. Everyone dresses up (or down) for the occasion and rumour has it that King Neptune himself will make an appearance.

There will also be a Pikkie Penguin Pool available for junior plungers.

• Hops at the Hills: Enjoy quality beer, wine and food combined with top SA talent in the laid-back, family-friendly environment of the annual Hops at the Hills craft beer festival at Stanford Hills, from 11:00 onwards. Aside from the twelve local craft breweries exhibiting their finest wares, there will be artisanal food stalls, kids’ activities and live music by the likes of the Rivertones, Louise Carver and Watershed, who performed at Stanford Hills in January to a sold-out crowd. Book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets are R250 pp for adults and R80 for children under 18, available online at www.louisecarver.nutickets.co.za or directly from the Tasting Room at Stanford Hills. Call them on 072 639 6135.

Saturday 25 June • Stanford Saturday Morning Market: The Stanford Hotel, 09:30-12:00. Farmers, crafters and hobbyists bring to you homemade and home-baked goodies.

• Swallow Park Market: Browse the new market at Swallow Park between 09:00 and 13:00.

Tuesday 21 June • Film Evening: Two episodes from the brilliant BBC series Nature’s Microworlds will be screened by Whale Coast conservation (WCC) at the Green House, at 17:30. The episodes Amazon and Scottish Highlands will be 30 minutes each, with a short break between, bringing the evening to a close at 19:00. R20 donation at the door. Find the Green House on the R43 just after the Vermont / Lynx Avenue turn-off. For more info, contact anina.wcc@gmail.com or 083 242 3295.

• Ballroom Dancing Course: Join Hermanus Social Dance Club for their Ballroom 101 Beginner’s 6-week course, every Tuesday until 26 July, at 19:00. Come learn the basics of the classics - Foxtrot, Waltz and Ballroom Tango. Singles and couples welcome. R400 pp or R700 per couple; 10% off if paid before 15 June. Contact Lani on 072 316 5787 for details.

Thursday 23 June • Ons Teater: Screening of The Lady in the van, starring Maggie Smith, at the Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus at 14:30. Donations at the door for the church’s Service Centre (‘Dienssentrum’) for the elderly.

Friday 24 June

Saturday 18 & 25 June • Hermanus parkrun: Meet at Hermanus Forest in Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley at 08:00. Free timed 5 km walk or run come rain or shine. The route is dog friendly and children are most welcome.

• Lemm’s Corner Market: From 08:30, Main Road, Hermanus. Crafts, clothes, jewellery, bags, toys and art.

• Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market: In the courtyard at HPF cellar, The Village, from 10:00-13:00. Where wine and food lovers both local and international meet.

• Market in the Garden: At St Peter’s Church in Main Road, 09:00-14:00. A wonderful market set amongst the trees in the heart of town. Join the St Peter’s Coffee Morning and enjoy a sweet treat for only R10 and a cup of coffee or tea for only R5. Sit down in the shady garden and enjoy the surrounds.

• Barry Hilton Live in Stanford: See the funny man himself at the Dutch Reformed Church Hall in Stanford at 19:30. Tickets are R100. This is a Stanford Rotary Club fund-raiser and all profits will go to Rotary Club projects. Two beautiful handmade children’s quilts will also be raffled at the show. Get your tickets from Stanford Tourism at 028 3410 340 or ask@stanfordinfo.co.za; or contact Annie Ranger at 028 3410 984 or ranger@reedcottage.co.za

• Know your Overstrand: U3A presents the fifth talk in this informative series at 10:00, Catholic Church hall. Mary Faure, Director of the Hermanus FynArts Festival, will outline the structure of the tourism market in the Overstrand, the functions of the four tourism offices, festivals and tourism-related activities, and whether we are gaining important potential benefits from this industry.

• Kidbrooke Open Day: Join Kidbrooke Place in Onrus between 10:00 and 15:00 for tea at their Frail Care Centre, which offers 24-hour care to the elderly. Contact 028 316 1142 or kidbrookecarecentre@telkomsa.net • Stargazing: The Hermanus Astronomy Centre will host Soup & Stars at 18:00, Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus. Join them for an evening of stargazing through telescopes and binoculars, focusing on objects around the Southern Cross. Even if it’s overcast or rainy, bring your binoculars along as there will be an exciting alternative program. The cost is R50 pp and includes soup and refreshments, star maps, newsletter and

• Art Bouquet All Seasons Exhibition: Browse the artworks and photography on display every last Saturday of the month at Bosko Centre, Fairways Avenue (opposite the Hermanus Country Market) from 09:00 – 13:00.

Not weather dependent as the exhibition is indoors. A great opportunity for new artists who haven’t exhibited before – secure your spot at only R150. Contact Mari on 084 506 7427 or artbouquet2015@gmail.com

• Beaumont Barrel Lunch: This popular winter event is back! Enjoy a long lazy lunch in the barrel cellar of this charming family wine farm in Botrivier. You’ll be greeted with a glass of their famous Chenin Blanc at 11:30, followed by a walk to their newest Chenin vineyard where winemaker Sebastian Beaumont will do a short demonstration on how they develop and shape these young vines. The festive three-course lunch will be paired with Beaumont wines. R410 pp. To book contact info@beaumont.co.za • Country Legends Unplugged: A tribute to the songs of country legends, from Johnny Cash and Don Williams to Dolly Parton and Trisha Yearwood. This acoustic show featuring Gareth James will be hosted by The Original Deli & Wine Bar, starting at 20:30. The cost is R100 pp. Only 65 seats available at this intimate venue; call 028 313 2137 to book.

Sunday 26 June

• Mushroom Forage: Gather at Elgin Vintners in the Elgin Wine Valley at 09:00 for an early morning coffee and an informative talk by Gary Goldman, aka The Mushroom Fundi, followed by an exciting mushroom forage in the forest. Gary will teach you which mushrooms are edible and which ones should be avoided, he’ll demonstrate how to remove them from the delicate forest floor, how to clean them off, and store them in your basket for safe keeping. After the forage there will be wine tasting and lunch, and you’ll leave with a bottle of lovely Elgin Vintners Wines. The cost is R695 pp. For bookings or enquiries contact 082 379 2623 or dre@drejohnsoninc.com

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Artists on a journey @ Bellini Gallery

Bellini, the gallery upstairs at the Village Square in the heart of Hermanus’s waterfront, is spotlighting two artists during the period 10-22 June. Shelley Adams and Louis Ströh van der Walt have both enjoyed a long relationship with Bellini’s owners, Klaus Dembeck and Willie van Wyk, and both were on show at the official opening of Bellini at the gallery’s first premises on Marine Drive in 2006.

Born in Johannesburg, Shelley moved with her family to Hermanus in 1986. As a longtime Overstrand artist of note, she is truly embedded in the local art scene; initially as dance teacher, then as artist, art teacher, gallery owner and leader of mystical explorations of colour and philosophy. It’s even rumoured that she is resuming her ballet interests.

Looking back at past articles I found, as expected, many mentions of Shelley over the years. Apart from her solo exhibitions, there she is with trademark wispy scarf and warm smile, at joint shows or perhaps generously opening the exhibitions of other artists.

Always a good opening talk, one that has intellectual content plus personal knowledge of the travails and concerns that every artist experiences.

Shelley founded the Art Centre in Hermanus where she taught for 10 years, both adults and the younger ones who took art as a matric subject. Her past period of teaching capitalised on her ability to draw out creativity.

Her critiques were wellfounded, her guidance taken to heart.

Philip Harper, founder of the Hermanus Galleries of that name, told me recently he and his wife still have an extensive collection of Shelley’s works and he follows her career and knows her as a very interesting person with great spirituality – high praise from this knowledgeable art lover now resident in Italy.

So what can one expect at this show? A wealth of new works, some on wood and incorporating found objects, feathers, stones or shells, all of which add deeper symbolism to her work, and all imbued with a sense of colour that is Shelley’s own.

One or two iconic works from further back, too – works she specially values for the depiction of her artistic and spiritual progress. It’s up to the viewer what they get out of her paintings. “My journey with the work is while it is on the easel; when it moves on, it becomes the new owner’s journey.”

Shelley now devotes herself full time to painting, dancing and spiritual pursuits, not as separate avenues but integrated into her life as a whole. “Colour, light and divine guidance continue to be my underlying source of inspiration,” she says. “My task is to help others become aware of the constant Divine messages being given to us through the world around us, through the medium of animals, plants, as well as the elements of Air, Fire, Water and Earth.”

Shelley’s spirit animal, the raven, recently visited her in a dream and features prominently in some of her works. In order to assist others in living their own sacred soul journeys, she offers readings, personal consultations and workshops where she assists others in connecting to their divine guidance through working together with their personal spirit animals, plants, trees and crystals. To find out more about Shelley and her work, visit www.shelleyadams.co.za Next up is Louis Ströh van der Walt, currently based near Stanford but no stranger to Hermanus. He has known Klaus and Willie for more than a decade and his work is a regular and popular

Works by Louis Ströh van der Walt (left) and Shelley Adams (right) will be on display at Bellini Gallery from 10 - 22 June.

Klaus Dembeck of Bellini Gallery with local artist Shelley Adams offering at Bellini. Like Shelley he is a seasoned fine artist and his CV reflects his professional training and the many collections, corporate, private and overseas which have his work.

Born in Swartruggens in the North West Province, Louis was an art teacher for many years before giving up teaching in 1991 to become a fulltime artist. He is best known for his serene landscapes – with dramatic aspects of light through cloud. Oil on board is his preferred medium, using broad, quick brushstrokes.

"I get my inspiration from my immediate environment and my approach is an expressive impression of what I see,” says Louis. “I use my subject (usually landscapes) only as vantage point to obtain as much movement and atmosphere as possible."

unlikely to give up.” You will also have the satisfaction of acquisition before prices escalate beyond your reach.

The youngster just out of arts school may need support but art is a demanding career and many fall by the wayside and elect to study brain surgery or nuclear science.

Sometimes when asked to guide prospective investment buyers, I tentatively offer this advice: ”Buy only works that you love, certainly; but it will help if you choose an artist who has been painting for a decade or two – they are

So, enjoy both of these experienced artists’ offerings at Bellini Gallery – and indeed all the other visual arts exhibitions currently on show during FynArts.

– Patrick Chapman

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14 June 2016

The exhibiting artists who attended the opening of Sculpture on the Cliffs on Saturday 11 June: Strijdom van der Merwe, George Holloway, Gavin Younge, Gordon Froud, Wilma Cruise and Jaco Sierberhagen.

Liz Coates, curator of the ceramic exhibition Forms of Expression 2, with Dr Ralph Johnson who opened the exhibition at the Windsor Hotel on Saturday 11 June.

Festival goers queued up to meet well-known artist Judith Mason at Abalone Gallery.

LEFT: Curator Marilyn Martin, festival artist Louis Jansen van Vuuren and festival director Mary Faure at the opening of Louis’exhibition at SPACE Gallery on Sunday, 12 June.

RIGHT: Danny Myburgh hosted a celebratory FynArts gathering on Saturday evening. From left are Danny, Terry Kobus, Mary Faure, Gordon Froud, Judith Mason and George Holloway.

Nanette Ranger and Adèle Fouché at the opening of their joint exhibition on Friday, 10 June.

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26 JANUARY 14 June 2016 2016

Christopher draws hope from FynArts

“In a world filled with endless and tiresome politics, there is a hunger for connecting with art. What it all boils down to is that art is the counter to disillusionment and despair,” says Christopher Hope, internationally renowned author and one of the founding members of Hermanus FynArts.

Sipping on a glass of wine and looking out over the ocean from the stoep of Lizette’s Kitchen in Voëlklip a few weeks ago, Christopher draws

hope from Fynarts.

“Sport can take care of itself. Millions of rands are spent annually on sporting events and they have the backing of large corporate sponsors to help take care of the sportsmen and women.

But artists need art festivals to help them to survive. And what better place on earth is there to have a celebration of the arts than in Hermanus?

“Hermanus is well known for

its painters and poets and it follows naturally that the town should have its own celebration of the arts.

FynArts in its very name is a reflection and echo of the region and the nature of the festival,” he says.

Coincidentally, it was Christopher who coined the name FynArts.

“Hermanus is a congenial place for the arts and over the years there has been a natural confluence of artists in the area which makes it an ideal place for any art lover to visit. In this vein, FynArts has grown over the last four years into a unique celebration of the arts.

“Not only has the amazing support from resident artists and residents alike contributed to this success, the festival has been enthusiastically embraced by its audiences. We have seen the festival grow each year and it is my firm belief that it has the legs to continue to grow into one of the preeminent events on the South African arts calendar.”

Author Christopher Hope at Sumaridge Wine Estate on the eve of Hermanus FynArts 2016

Leaning forward in his chair so as to emphasise his passion, he sweeps with his hand in the direction of town. “Look at where we are. This beautiful setting. The ocean, the mountains, the

fynbos. Hermanus is a cosmopolitan town that has a long history of drawing interesting people from all over the world. From pottery to painting, from photography to music, from actors to chefs, Hermanus has it all. And with all of that right here on our doorstep, FynArts is the perfect amalgamation of an arts festival and a winter school.

It is an example of what can be done over a period of ten days.”

Christopher has an intimate knowledge of what it takes to establish and successfully run a festival. He has played an instrumental role in establishing the Franschhoek Literary Festival that has for the past decade become an integral part of the literary world.

Christopher left South Africa in 1975 after his work drew fire from the Apartheid regime. His debut novel, A Separate Development, published in 1981, was banned by the government for satirizing the Apartheid system, but then went on to receive the David Higham Memorial Prize.

Over the course of his long and illustrious career, Christopher has earned several more writing awards, including the Thomas Pringle

Prize for his book, Cape Drives, and the Whitbread Prize in 1984 for Kruger’s Alp. In 1992, Hope’s other book, Serenity House, was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 1990.

“We started the Franschhoek Literary Festival on a wing and a prayer and it has become a must visit for both authors and readers. In much the same way we started FynArts on a zero budget. As a growing festival we subsist on the smell of an oil rag. But we are in the fortunate position to have local sponsors that keep the wheels turning. Without their continuous support we would not have been able to put on a festival of this magnitude.”

Relaxing over a second glass of wine, Christopher reflects on the programme for 2016.

“This year FynArts once again offers a plethora of choices. With such a variety of offerings it gives as many people as possible as much pleasure as possible. But, this is not just something that happens. With Mary (Faure) as festival director and the driving force, the programme has grown every year. It also helps that the advisory committee consists of people who are all

practicing artists in their respective fields. That adds substantial depth to the organising and I think it shows.”

With the chatter of the lunchtime crowd growing louder, Christopher leans on the table and in an almost conspiratorial tone, says the challenge now for FynArts is to bring in the crowds. “We have phenomenal local support and the audience numbers from over the mountain grow every year. But now it is time to also look broader.

“We need to be practical and pragmatic. The festival needs to grow in order for us to sustain it. But the growth needs to be both in the offering, as we see every year, and in the number of people attending. Once we reach the point where people from all over the country flock to Hermanus for FynArts, we will be in a position to say we are in turn supporting the very livelihood of our artists. I am hopeful of reaching that point very soon.”

• Christopher will be reading from his latest book, Jimfish, at the Book Cottage on Tuesday 14 June at 17:00. Find The Book Cottage at 17 Long Street.

- De Waal Steyn

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14 June 2016

Securing a future for vulnerable children “It is overwhelming to see a dream come true in this way,” said Jacques du Plessis, Managing Director of Aqunion, last week at the opening of the new extension of the Yomelelani Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre in Zwelihle. “It is a blessing to have been part of this journey.”

The centre provides a crèche, pre-school and after-school homework centre for the township’s young children, many of whom are orphans or from impoverished single parent households.

With the completion of the first phase of the extension in January, Yomelelani (which in Xhosa means ‘be strong’) was able to increase its capacity from 60 to 110 children. After the second phase was completed, the centre was able to enrol an additional 22 little ones between 3 months and 2 years on 1 June.

Helping Hand

“Parents and guardians had queued up in front of the centre since midnight,” said Corny Rode, General Manager of Yomelelani ECD Centre. “When I arrived at

7am the queue was so long that it broke my heart that I was only able to admit the first 22 children.” The centre now has a total of 132 children in their care, which Corny said is only a drop in the bucket as it is estimated that almost 5 000 children in the Overstrand do not have access to Early Childhood Development facilities.

The driving force behind the project of expanding Yomelelani was Aqunion, a local abalone farming business that was founded in 1994 and has operations in both Hermanus and Gansbaai. As part of their corporate social responsibility, Aqunion identified education, and specifically early childhood development, as the best way, besides job creation, to give back to the community and make a positive contribution.

“Due to the fact that early childhood is the most critical period of a person’s development, it was an obvious choice for us in order to try and make the biggest possible impact on

The children of Yomelelani performed at the opening the future of the underprivileged children in our community. We found Yomelelani to be an excellent choice because of the crèche being registered with the Department of Education, having qualified and dedicated staff and being situated on municipal grounds with the space for further expansion,” said Jacques.

He thanked all the role players, stake holders, sponsors, companies and individuals for their kind contributions towards the project, including

Engelbrecht & Scorgie, Hermanus Round Table 267, Charl Jooste & Dean White from Penny Pinchers, Blythe Scorgie from Polyfor, Talisman Hire, Northcliff Private School, and especially the building contractor, Koos du Toit of 360 Development.

The opening was also attended by Mayor Nicolette Botha-Guthrie, who said “This just shows us what can be achieved when we all work together to give our children a better quality of life. It is our collective responsibility as a

Jacques du Plessis, MD of Aqunion community to care for our children because they are our future.”

means investing in the future of the Overstrand and the country as a whole.”

Nicolette went on to say that she is a passionate supporter of early childhood development, because it lays the foundation for future learning and as such has both short and long term benefits. “Stimulation, nourishment and health care play a critical role in human development,” she said.

“Investing in this project

Local business are encouraged to make donations and get involved with this project as a platform for corporate investment.

For more information, visit the websites www.aqunion.co.za or www.yomelelani.co.za or contact the General Manager at Yomelelani, Corny Rode, on 084 855 8279.

Hospice cares to the end Since opening its doors in 2007, Overstrand Hospice has provided care to all referred patients diagnosed with an end-phase life threatening illness in the Overstrand sub-district.

The area covered is from Rooi Els to Pearly Beach and includes poorer resourced communities and informal settlements in areas such as Hawston, Mount Pleasant, Zwelihle, Masakhane and Blompark. Holistic care is provided to patients diagnosed with illnesses such as cancers, end-phase AIDS and organ failure, irrespective of religion or socio-economic status.

“When people get sick, they become ‘poor’; when the poor get sick, they become even poorer.”

Approximately 50% of their patients are referred by state hospitals and clinics.

Most of these patients (and their families) are from the under-resourced areas across our communities and struggle to make ends meet, or attend to basic needs such as food and shelter.

Poverty also places a huge limitation on these patients being able to access holistic

healthcare and health information, which places them in an extremely vulnerable and compromised position in terms of their treatment and care, and making informed choices about their health.

For example, people may be too ill, or not have money for transport to get to the clinic for their medication. They may not have the means to eat a healthier diet, which would boost their immunity and help stave off the often unpleasant side-effects of their treatment.

Some patients qualify for a disability grant (R1 400 monthly) which they receive when declared unfit for work due to illness.

However, rather than the grant being used solely for their needs, these meagre grants are often used to feed and provide for an entire household due to the prevailing high levels of unemployment in lower income communities; this also compromises the patient’s wellness and wellbeing.

Extending the reach of care “Providing holistic, compassionate quality care

is what underpins our approach to patients and their families referred to our organisation. We recognise that patients living with a lifethreatening illness are vulnerable; patients living in poverty are more vulnerable.

“To this end, we remain committed to providing care, and linking patients and families to those resources which may be beyond our capacity but necessary for optimal care.”

These resources might include sourcing bandages for wound care, a referral to a family agency regarding the future care of children, arranging transportation to a hospital, or providing companionship to a patient who is isolated. Providing optimal care is achieved through the generous support and interest from the public, as well as on-going collaboration and partnering with health care providers and NGO’s, who are able to support the work undertaken

by Overstrand Hospice and extend their reach of care.

This, in order to bring hope and care to people living in poverty and with a lifethreatening illness and keep the presence of desperation at a distance.

Sr Annetjie Squires, Sr Saskia Schiel and social worker Fransil Kotzé HOSPICE INVITES YOU TO JOIN THE 600 CLUB. For a R50 per month donation, you will be helping, plus also stand a chance to win a monthly cash prize of R5 000, R2 500 or R1 000.

For more information, please contact Norma Scott-Tomlin on 028 312 4679 or 600admin@overstrandhospice. com, or visit their office at 10 Hope Street, Hermanus

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26 JANUARY 14 June 2016 2016

Home is where the heart is

The new housing project in Mount Pleasant, situated between the cemetery and Schulphoek Road, comprises 220 affordable, state-subsidised housing units that were recently completed. In his address at the handover to the new home owners on 24 May, the Western Cape Minister of Human Settlements, Bonginkosi Madikizela, said the department had prioritised the elderly and disabled, as well as those people who’d been on the Housing Allocation List for many years.

The compact units each comprise a living room, 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. There is a kitchen sink against the back wall of the living room, but the new owners have to install their own kitchen units. There is only one tap for the kitchen and bathroom with cold water, and it is left to the new home owners to install their own geysers. The units were completed with basic light fittings and a cement floor.

In spite of these shortcomings, many of the new home owners are overjoyed to be settling in. Many of them said they are still in a state of disbelief. “I was very surprised when I received the official letter stating that my application has been approved,” says long-time Mount Pleasant resident Zelda Filander. “I had waited 13 years for that letter and had all but given up hope. I still can’t believe that I now have my own home.”

been working at the Gateway Spar bakery for the last 14 years. She does not have the money for a geyser, she says, but has managed to put carpeting in the bedrooms and has planted some flowers in her front yard.

laying down linoleum on the floor, but they too cannot afford to buy a geyser.

Colin Hansen and his daughter Caitlin

Myrtle and Albert Gertse “When we got our house we cried and gave thanks to the Lord,” says Albert Gertse. Like many other new residents, Albert and his wife Myrtle had been living in a shack in someone’s back yard with their two children.

They had waited 19 years for a house and cannot stop smiling. Myrtle has decorated their living room with colourful curtains and although they also don’t have the money for a geyser, she says they can at least boil water on their stove.

Proud new home owner Colin Hansen and his wife Mary-Rose had waited 13 years for a house for them and their three children. They had lived and raised their children in a shack behind Colin’s parent’s house in Mount Pleasant. Colin is a painter and says work is scarce during the winter months, so they also cannot afford a geyser at this stage. But he has put up a fence around his property and is looking forward to establishing a garden.

Anna Windvogel

Rachel Jacobs

Zelda Filander and her sister Louisa Zelda had lived in her mother’s house in Mount Pleasant with her mother, sister and the six children between them since moving to Hermanus from Caledon 31 years ago. She has

Johannes Booysen and his daughter Juliet Johannes Booysen says his mother, Elizabeth, was “more than happy” to get her own home which she had been waiting for since 2000. He is helping his mother out by putting up a washing line, starting a garden and

waited for a house, probably “more than 20 years”. Over the years she moved around a lot with her husband and two children (one of whom died), squatting wherever they could find a place. Prior to being allocated a house, Anna says she was living in a shack. There were also times when she lived in the bushes with her surviving child. “In the mornings I had to find water to wash her before she went off to school,” says Anna. Because of the hardships she’s endured, Anna is in ill health but says she is grateful to have a home at last where she can live out the remainder of her days. “When I got the news, I went on my knees and thanked the Lord,” she says.

Rachel Jacobs says she was overjoyed to move into her own home. “I waited many years for this,” she says, “from before my daughter was born and she is now 16.”

Rachel is one of the few new residents who was able to lay down new tiles and install a geyser.

Anna Windvogel is in her late sixties and says she can’t even remember how long she’d

The total cost of the project, inclusive of municipal services, was just under R38 million.

The criteria for housing includes a maximum monthly salary of R3 500 per month, and the allocation of houses is done by the provincial department of housing according to the prescribed criteria and the information supplied by the applicants.

Several residents of Mount Pleasant were disgruntled and asserted that people were given houses who have their own businesses and earn salaries higher than the maximum, who already own second properties, and who do not live in Mount Pleasant and have come from other towns such as Caledon and Worcester. A protest broke out on 5 May and the Municipality undertook to investigate these allegations.

- Hedda Mittner

14 June 2016

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SAVOY CABBAGE SOUP with CHEEZY CRISPS Who would have thought that a cabbage soup could be so comforting and warming on a chilly day in the Overstrand?

Not only does it look impressive - it is utterly delicious, great for the waistline and economical too.

Serves 4 Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 brown onion 1 chopped garlic clove 1 teaspoon crushed cumin seeds 1 Savoy cabbage 2 medium potatoes cut into 1,5 cm cubes 800 ml warm vegetable stock 60 grams grated cheddar cheese Method: Heat oil in large, heavybased pot Fry onion & cumin seeds until golden brown before adding garlic and frying for a further 2-3 minutes Add the cabbage & potato Keep a little raw cabbage aside for later. * See below Cook for 15 minutes on medium heat until potatoes are medium soft.

Remove from heat and

leave for a few minutes while preparing cheese crackers

and lift off with fish-slice The cheese crackers will be hard and crunchy

cheese cracker. A few drops of olive oil will add a dainty touch.

Method: Heat oven to 220˚C and divide cheese into 4 portions

Use a stick-blender or food processor to blend soup to smooth consistency. Season to taste.

* Fry extra cabbage in a little butter and pinch of salt before using as garnish on soup.

To serve, dish soup into warmed bowl, top with a little fried cabbage and a

Supplied by: Emilia Knight, Facebook - Clean Eating

by Appetite Knight.

Slightly spread out bundles on a lined baking tray and bake until golden brown Leave to cool completely

OVERBERG SKIN & BODY CLINIC at Oudehof Mall just off High Street, where Surina Malan has been the owner for an astonishing 27 years, celebrated its 30th anniversary last year.

Now working alongside Surina is her daughter Elske, who is being groomed to take over the family business from mom.

Receptionist Cornelia James has also been with Overberg Skin & Body Clinic for over 20 years, but now a new face has been added to the team. Nadia Gouws hails from Stellenbosch and has 12 years’ experience as a beauty and massage therapist.

She completed her training with Isa Carstens before travelling the world and plying her trade. “I joined the team at the beginning of May and am looking forward to getting to know all Skin & Body’s loyal clients,” says Nadia. From left are Elske Malan, Nadia Gouws, Surina Malan and Cornelia James.

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26 JANUARY 14 June 2016 2016

The whimsical wonders of Amulet

The side streets and alleyways of Hermanus are filled with interesting little specialty shops just waiting to be discovered. One such gem is Amulet in Broad Street (just off Mitchell Street), where owner Hélène Truter has created a vintage shop brimming with nostalgia and romance.

Every nook and cranny of the shop is filled with what Hélène calls “pretty things”, everything from décor items, gifts, clothing, accessories and even skin products that are displayed on quirky shelves, tables and cupboards, while others are draped over the walls and dangle from the ceiling.

“I only do pretty,” says Hélène. “This is my pretty place where people come to spoil themselves. Every item in my shop is unique and transports you to another time and place.

We all need a pretty fix from time to time!” As people tend to linger in the shop, Helene invested in an imported coffee machine and they also serve delicious coffee and cake in the coffee corner and the charming little courtyard at the back of the shop.

Hélène hardly needs introduction. Our very own resident celebrity is a prolific actress, director and scriptwriter, perhaps best remembered for her endearing role as Poppie in the SABC2 sitcom Vetkoekpaleis. She started her writing career in the early nineties when she joined the Egoli scripwriting team, and 300 scripts later she moved on to Africa’s biggest soap, Generations, to become the head scriptwriter in 1997. She is also the creator and head writer of the multi award-winning SABC2 drama series Swartwater (‘Black Water’). The first series comprising 26 episodes of 48 minutes each, was screened in 2014 and she is currently writing the second series with her husband, Percy Pretorius.

The couple had met on the stage in the late eighties when both performed for PACT (“In the play he had to kiss me on stage and the earth just moved,” says Hélène) and were married in 1992. They later bought a holiday home in Vermont, but Hélène says “we hardly spent any time there as we were always working!” In December 2010 they left Johannesburg with their daughter Jana to

settle permanently in Vermont and embrace “small town living”. At the time Hélène was still employed as a director on the popular soap, Binnelanders, and she commuted regularly to Johannesburg, as she still does.

“Percy and I had no intention of giving up our careers, but we also wanted to start something new in Hermanus. I have always liked pretty things and am an avid fan of car boot and garage sales. One of my favourite shops in Hermanus was Amulet, and when I told the owner that I would love to run her shop for her, she said she was actually thinking of selling – and that was it!”

When the pet shop next door to Amulet closed last year, Hélène and Percy took over that space to enlarge their shop. “It had become very cluttered but now the shop can breathe again,” says Percy. After completing a barista course, he has taken over the coffee duties and also bakes Amulet’s famous carrot cake. Either Percy or Hélène are to be found on the premises on most days (“The ladies love Percy!” says Hélène), and they get much of their inspiration for the Swartwater script from the shop’s customers and the stories they share.

“Every day in the shop is different,” says Hélène. “You learn to ‘read’ people and how to engage with them. What I love about this shop is that it brings us into contact with real, genuine people and we have carried that experience through to our writing.

Swartwater is about a town very much like Hermanus, which also has its secrets and intrigues.”

Walking through Amulet’s doors is like entering Aladdin’s cave of wonders, a charming whimsical world of romance and nostalgia. “We may not stock everyday essentials, but we offer something that I think is even more essential – little treasures that make you feel good. Our customers come here to spoil themselves and walk out of the shop with things they have fallen in love with.

We don’t only sell ‘stuff’, we sell a feeling.”

Find Amulet at 4 Broad Street, Hermanus, www.amulatlifestyle.com / 028 313 0359.

- Hedda Mittner

Hélène Truter with her husband Percy Pretorius and their miniature Yorkie, Diva.

NEWS Tax tips for rental property owners

My Home

14 June 2016

Over the past few years, economic uncertainty and stock market volatility have boosted investor interest in residential rental property. And it can be a great source of income as well as long-term capital gain, but what many investors forget is that those returns are not tax-free.

“In SA, owners are liable in terms of the Income Tax Act to pay tax on the profits they make from any rental properties, and SARS requires them to keep and submit records of all income and expenditure with regard to those properties in order to accurately calculate the profits,” says Cornel Janse van Vuuren, Principal of RealNet Hermanus.

“This means that even if you are just breaking even on your rental property, or only renting out your holiday home or garden flat on an occasional basis, you can’t just quietly pocket the rental you receive and not declare it as part of your annual income.”

Having said that, however, most rental property owners also don’t realise that they can deduct certain expenses from their gross

Cornel Janse van Vuuren 083 704 8636 onrus@realnet.co.za

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rental income to determine the profit and therefore reduce their tax liability.

These expenses include: • Municipal rates and taxes; • The interest on the home loan used to buy the property; • Sectional title levies if applicable; • Any advertising costs paid to find new tenants; • Any fees or commission paid to a managing or letting agent; • The annual home owners’ insurance (HOC) premium; • The cost of security and garden services; and • The cost of repairs and maintenance needed to keep the property in good condition.

of the property and the cost of any additions or improvements (such as an extra bedroom or the refitting of an old kitchen) may not be deducted from rental received – but could possibly be added to the “base cost” of the property for Capital Gains Tax (CGT) purposes.

“But it must be said that SARS will expect landlords to present invoices, receipts and bank statements as proof of any and all expenses that they claim. In addition, landlords may not claim VAT as an expense or charge VAT on the rental.”

“But if you buy an investment property and then quickly resell it, SARS is quite likely to categorise the original purchase as speculative, and the proceeds of your sale as taxable income – even if your original intention was to hold on to the property and your sale was prompted only by a sudden change of circumstance.”

Cornel also notes that expenditure of a capital nature, including the purchase price

“That brings us to the question of whether the investor will be liable for CGT or for income tax if and when the property is resold. In general, if you can show that you bought a property with the intention of holding on to it as a long-term investment, and then rented it out for a number of years, SARS will regard the proceeds of the eventual sale as being of a capital nature, and thus subject to CGT rather than income tax.

Go smaller and hang on to your home Much has been said about the “hidden” costs of buying a home, such as transfer duty, legal costs and bond registration fees, but in these tough times, homebuyers also need to look ahead and budget for the additional costs they may face once they become homeowners So says Shaun Rademeyer, CEO of BetterLife Home Loans, who notes: “Buyers need to know, for example, what the implications are of buying a property with a large garden as opposed to one on a smaller stand that will

attract lower municipal rates and taxes – and may also save them time and money when it comes to upkeep.”

Other budget items to consider, he says, are Home Owner’s Insurance (HOC) premiums, levies in sectional title complexes, water and electricity charges, cleaning costs and time, and the cost of security measures such as fencing and burglar bars.

“And if you have a smaller home, the chances are that all of these costs will be lower than if you have a large property. The

levies in sectional title schemes, for example, are usually calculated according to the participation quota pertaining to each unit – so the larger the unit, the bigger your share of the overall levy bill will be.

Similarly, says Rademeyer, it costs more to secure, clean and maintain a large property, and to provide water and electricity for a large household. “And with utility costs continuing to rise steeply, we have seen that many homeowners with bigger homes keep having to rethink their budgets.

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What if it were possible...

What if South Africa as we know it provided a better life for all?

We write this as an open letter to all readers. Not for us, but for those of you who are striving for a better life long after we are gone - for our leaders of tomorrow.

We ask why is it that the very essence of education as a platform to life after school is currently failing our youth?

The need for a new Vocational Education System in South Africa is dire: - 3.2 million disengaged youth in South Africa... and the figure keeps rising - the majority of our past Grade 12 learners are unable to find employment - the failed school ‘dropouts’ are basically ‘unskilled’ for any business - on the job training or apprenticeships are few and far between, if any - our labour industries are

with a concerted effort it could easily grow to one in five!

crying out for workers with skills and aptitude

We ask why the original Green Paper on higher education has been so slow to move our status quo forward?

The fact that it was commissioned is a tacit acceptance by our government of the poor state of our tertiary education system.

Vocational colleges (prior FET colleges) are still seen as the second cousin to our universities as the leading tertiary institutions. There is much needed guidance as to South Africa’s real vocational needs. Without some urgent remodelling of our current systems, our youth are doomed to remain in the ranks of the unemployed.

We ask why are our education influencers and authorities not taking their cue from

Pioneer Your Own Frontier the Building Industry’s GO FOR GOLD programme?

GO FOR GOLD has 25 partner companies in a demand-driven programme that is working for the Building Industry. So why can’t we extend the concept of vocational training via Public and Private partnerships into other primary sectors of the economy?

- Agriculture: The recent droughts have left South Africa with major shortages in maize and other crops.

Large-scale farm production

and crop exports are of paramount importance. We understand that AGRIMARK has recently taken up the challenge with the introduction of a national training academy. Good on you AGRIMARK for stepping up to the plate.

- Tourism: SA Tourism, while enjoying promising growth thanks in part to a falling rand exchange to both the dollar and the pound, still has large untapped capacity to employ and create new jobs. One in eight new jobs created in the Western Cape is directly attributed to incoming tourism. But experts believe

- Education: The need for more and improved education and training is a given. It already enjoys the lion’s share of our national budget. The opportunity for improved vocational based education and on the job training to create more jobs and employment is simply unquantifiable.

“ Education provides the single most effective route to breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty. Lack of education is also the greatest exclusion a person can experience. It is also critical to obtaining a job and higher productivity.”

Gill Marcus, ex Governor of the Reserve Bank.

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- Developing an Entrepreneurial mindset. While our education system is sadly lacking in stimulating entrepreneurship (South Africa ranks a lowly 38th out of 43 countries according to the internationally researched Global Entrepreneurship Monitor) the upshot of it all is that we are simply not creating a generation of capable and passionate entrepreneurs. A view shared by many in the education and training sector.

“ We must do everything we can to make entrepreneurship a reality.”

World Economic Forum

We at SOLOBEAR ask these questions simply because we ourselves do not have all the answers. So we welcome future input and assistance from all quarters.

Send an email to Alan Engelsman at alan@stoepsitstudio.co.za

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14 June 2016

Aviation set to take off in the Overberg Making the Overberg accessible by air would create a boon for not only tourism but also for the development of the area, says Johan Lottering, one of the conveners of the envisaged Overberg Aviation Forum.

“We could see development on a par with that of the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal if the aviation fraternity stands together to coordinate its efforts and work towards upgrading the existing infrastructure,” he says.

Johan says coordination and infrastructure seems lacking at the moment and the approach to safety management is uncoordinated. “Several accidents and serious incidents have occurred at virtually every landing facility in recent times and very little has been done to curb recurrences or to be proactive, preventative and predictive. However, with an integrated approach, aviators and other stake-holders alike could learn and benefit from each other.”

“This is the reason why we decided to hold an inaugural meeting of an interest group at the Lighthouse Tavern near Danger Point on Saturday Jun 25 at 8:30. Hermanus resident and former SAA Captain Brian Cartwright has responded to

an appeal from fellow aviation enthusiasts to share insights from his safety management experience in rural areas. Brian is the safety auditor for a large group of bush flyers in the Okavango Delta, as seen in the namesake TV series. His presentation would be an eye opener to those who attend,” says Johan.

The presentation will pave the way for the establishment of the forum.

According to Johan, other topics that will be discussed will be the identification of a municipal airport for the region, procedures for whale-spotting planes in the eco-sensitive Walker Bay area and the coordination thereof.

The region is a treasure trove of aviation talent and experience. Attendees of the meeting will have the opportunity to meet former 2 Sq. Commander Brig-Gen. Albie Götze. This 93-year-old Onrus resident is a former WWII fighter pilot who flew Spitfires for the RAF in the Middle East. He also saw gliders with troops shot down on D-Day in 1944 - not unlike scenes from the film Saving Private Ryan. He was flying strafing missions in a rocket laden Typhoon that fateful day. He is also credited with

The Britten-Norman Islander that will soon be carrying passengers from Cape Town International to Pearly Beach. This 10 seater plane has two 6 cylinder Lycoming engins that deliver 260 h.p. and was designed in the 1960s for short flights and short runways. downing V1 rockets over the English Channel, two of which were on the same day. His compassionate nature did not deter him from participating in the Berlin Air Bridge in 1946. He was recently awarded a gilded medal made from melted barbed wire of a Korean prisoner of war

camp, where he flew Mustangs in 1952.

Other prospective forum participants include air traffic controllers from the Overberg Air Force Base, Hermanus resident Brig-Gen. Piet van Zyl, former Mirage pilot known for his role in keeping the ageing fleet of

Lockheed C130s in the air, Hemel-en-Aarde resident LtCol. (ret.) Peter Dagg of Shackleton Pelican 16 fame and members of the local flying community at Pearly Beach and Caledon.

The potential future application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) is vast

and could play a vital role in local policing.

With the launch of the passenger transfer service in a ten-seater Britten-Norman Islander mere weeks away, a forum such as this seems to have its work cut out.

- De Waal Steyn

Sport

Sport written & compiled by: Tony O’Hagan

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Ex-Hermies rugby players in the limelight Congratulations to Leolin Zas who has been selected for the South African "A" squad to face the strong England Saxons rugby team on their two match tour of South Africa.

The Stormers wing has performed admirably in the Super 18 and a good showing against the Saxons could lead to higher honours.

Petrus du Plessis, who also attended Hermanus High School, played for the English team, Saracens, against Racing92 of France in the final of the European Rugby Champions Cup. Saracens, who were first time winners of this Cup, were victorious by 21 points to 9. Will he be another South African to wear the English Rose?

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Rugby, Netball and Hockey round-up With the approach of midseason fixtures, our rugby, netball and hockey teams have enjoyed both success and disappointments.

Herewith an update of the various disciplines:

Rugby

The Atlantic Rugby Club in Hermanus kicked off the season with a good win over Safcol of Grabouw, but then suffered three consecutive losses, dropping to 9th of the 11 teams competing in the Boland Super League. After these initial setbacks, the team has rallied to 5th position, following five good wins. Hawston remain in top position, with Caledon lying second at the halfway stage.

The club has suffered more than their share of injuries and the current mid-season break of 3 weeks is opportune, allowing those on the long injury list time to recover. With the availability of many of the injured players, match secretary Edward Wilkinson is optimistic of an improved performance in the second round and a higher position on the Super League log.

played in a lower league last season. All these netball games are played in Caledon and we wish the team continued success in the remaining fixtures.

Netball

The club invites aspiring netball players to join the club. Enquiries can be made with Club President, Elsabe Henn, on 076 155 9020.

Practices are held on Thursday evenings at the Curro School, so come and join the winning team!

Newly promoted to the Overberg Super League, the Hermanus Netball Club has started the season with a bang! The team is currently top of the log with 8 straight wins. This is a tremendous effort, considering that they

In terms of individual achievements, two players of the successful netball team, Famke Boonzaier and Michelle Porter, have been selected for the Overberg Provincial team.

Hockey

located near the cricket field.

However, good news is on the horizon, with the completion of the new astroturf hockey field scheduled for 20 August 2016. This field is under construction by the Hermanus High School and is

Due to astro-turf being compulsory at this level, the Hermanus team have to travel to Cape Town every weekend for games on their "adopted home ground" in Pinelands.

This has proved costly with field hire of R200 per hour plus travel expenses. Another challenge is the fact that practices are on grass and matches on astro-turf. With the advent of the new field in Hermanus, the team is hoping to play their three last fixtures on their "real" home turf in Hermanus. We hope for an improved position in the standings and now that we have the long overdue astroturf, a successful season next year.

The Hermanus men’s hockey team were promoted to the higher Western Province m3 league this season and are currently at the lower end of the log. The club has had challenges to overcome this season in the form of travel and different field conditions. All these league fixtures have to be played on an astro-turf playing surface and up to the present time, Hermanus does not possess this facility.

National Goju Ryu Karate Championship results The following students from Legacy Martial Arts Academy took part in the National Goju Ryu Karate Championships that was recently held in Cape Town.

They represented the Overberg Goju Ryu team and did exceptionally well, bringing back home 26 medals – 8 gold, 6 silver and 12 bronze. Eight new South African Goju Ryu champions were crowned. They have qualified for the World Goju Ryu Championship next year June in Okinawa, Japan – the birth place of karate.

In the back row: Ashlee Appel (gold, silver, bronze); Domonique Heydenrych (2 bronze); Zaanru Fraser (gold); Takura Kamizonde; Henry de Villiers (2 bronze); Devine Januarie (silver, bronze), instructor Sensei Ruehan van Romburgh.

Middle: Joshua Naude; Lerisha Montique (2 gold); Mealan Frans (gold, silver); Leeroy Botha (2 gold); Marquin de Klerk (2 silver, bronze); Joshua Botha. Front: Lorne Adams (silver, 2 bronze); Ayanda de Klerk (gold); Davino Phillips (bronze); Ncobo Mtyelwa, Christian Visidawa.

Schools

The children of Curro Castle are enjoying their new jungle gym.

SOUTH AFRICAN KICKBOXING CHAMPS RESULTS The South African Kickboxing Championships was held recently in Pretoria at the Zwartkop Airforce base. The following seven students represented the Overberg kickboxing team and obtained 7 medals – 2 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze. Two members, Sensei Jeremie Verdoodt and shihan Ruehan van Romburgh, were crowned South African Kickboxing Champions in their weight divisions. They were also included in the South African Protea team. Sensei Ruehan will represent South Africa at the African Kickboxing Championships in Madagascar, while Sensei Jeremie will compete at the Junior World Kickboxing Championships in Dublin, Ireland.

From left to right: William Maree, Miguell Boshoff (silver,bronze); Sensei Jeremie Verdoodt (gold, silver); Shihan Ruehan van Romburgh (gold).

Front row: Tiaan van der Westhuizen; Tyren van der Spuy (silver, bronze); Devine Januarie.

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On Friday 3 June learners from Curro Castle Hermanus were lucky enough to have an educational visit from Dr Maarten and Dr Sherry van Dalsen from Bergview Veterinary Hospital.

Assisting Dr Maarten is little Jack van Dalsen of Group 4E. A big thank you to Blackie for being such a co-operative patient. The children learned a lot about taking care of their pets and really enjoyed listening to Blackie’s heartbeat.