The village News 25 April 2017

Village

NEWS NEWS The

25 April 2017

Cape Whale Coast

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BIG CAT RESCUE

Animals here soon

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WHAT’S COOKING

Your restaurant news DISHING UP ART The first of three sculptures that will form part of the Sculpture on the Cliffs Exhibition for Hermanus FynArts 2017, was installed at the Old Harbour over the weekend. The huge, circular, mild steel piece is 3 metres in diameter and weighs 500 kg, which made the installation a challenge that required strength and precision. Read more on P 21.

PHOTOS: Lien Botha

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Fun in the Xtreme for Whale Coast

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event of its kind in the country it draws a lot of athletes not only looking to push the boundaries of their bodies but also to experience taking part in their disciplines in this beautiful environment,” says organiser Rick Oosthuizen.

“Although the Xtreme is a relatively new event it has drawn close on 600 participants from 5 countries. As the only

Starting on Saturday 29 April, the Xtreme will host 11 events over three days, including the gruelling Big Six Xtreme, where a select few will compete for the fastest time across the 18 km run, 17 km

De Waal Steyn he Cape Whale Coast is ready for an extreme weekend of extreme fun and extreme sports with the second annual Walkerbay Xtreme being held in and around Hermanus.

trail run, MTB criterium, triathlon, open-water swim, and swim-run-jump.

Rick says the event specifically caters for spectator involvement. “Access to the Race Village Arena above the Old Harbour is free of charge.

Spectators are welcome to come and relax and watch all the action as it is live streamed to the big screens. We will be erecting several gazebos with tables and chairs where people can come and relax in the

shade. All races (except the open-water swim) will start and finish in the race village, so you will be perfectly placed to witness all the thrills and spills from the comfort of your seat.

coming long weekend were received than for the Easter weekend. “This is true for the whole region. It seems that the variety of activities on offer are a huge drawcard.

inaugural Global Challenge – an international women’s golf invitational – as well as Stage 1 and the Stage 2 start of the ABSA Cape Epic in March,” says Frieda.

“Apart from the spectator area there will also be look-out areas along the Cliff Path where people can watch the action as it happens.”

“The Whale Coast is establishing itself as an international sport and adventure hub. In addition to bringing some of the country’s finest adventure sport athletes to town during the weekend, Hermanus recently played host to the

What makes the Xtreme unique is that it is made possible through the combined efforts of the community, See & Sand, the Sports and Life Skills Orientated Training Centre, Hermanus Business Chamber and Tourism.

Whale Coast Tourism Manager Frieda Lloyd says more queries for accommodation for the

See P 22 for more details

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25 April 2017

A not-to-be-missed destination

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he Whale Coast, best known for its whale watching and shark cage diving, is slowly but surely establishing itself as a national and international sport and adventure hub.

In just the first four months of the year we have played host to three large international sporting events. Combined with the ever-growing number of different adventure sport activities, the region is becoming increasingly popular in what was traditionally known as the quiet season.

According to statistics, events that stimulate tourism and spread visitors across the

Editorial Comment

By De Waal Steyn province during the traditional winter season has shown phenomenal growth.

In the Western Cape, regional events created 1 600 temporary jobs, drove 150 000 visitors into the regions and resulted in an estimated economic impact of R260 million over the April to September period in 2016.

With all the towns in the Overberg set to be even

busier than during the Easter weekend, we as residents can be thankful for the economic injections that come our way.

Together with our exceptional food and wine offerings, the upcoming FynArts Festival in June and the Kalfiefees and Wine and Food Festival in August, the traditional divide between winter and summer seasons is fading fast.

Together with the growth in our seasons, the number of attractions and events are also growing fast. These include the Hermanus First Fridays Artwalk and the recently launched Vermont Onrus Second Saturdays (VOSS)

Letters and opinions

A wonderful time was had by all and, besides creating awareness of the plight of unwanted babies and toddlers in our community, business people in Hermanus took hands with faithful members of our church to make a difference.

We are happy to announce that a nett total of R 42 000 was raised and we would like to sincerely thank all the corporate participants in the competition and everyone involved in the organisation of the event.

Special acknowledgement and thanks are due to Jernald Kennedy, Leonie Croucher,

René Gräter and Lizé Joubert, for being key players in the success of the event. Most importantly we give God the glory for His continued blessing on Ikaya Izibusiso.

This is indeed good news and all involved must be congratulated for the hard work they put into growing our region.

This is the GOOD NEWS – Ed

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Apostolic Mission; 2nd Prize Kennedy & Hattingh; 3rd Prize - Overberg Computers. Winner of the Lucky Draw – Rose Grimanis.

The esteemed judges: Rudolf van der Berg, Anton Verhoogt, Warwick Taylor and Wessels van Vuuren.

A big thank you to the corporate contestants in the Izibusiso Potjiekos Competition: Builders Express, St Paul’s Apostolic Mission, Cliff Cottage, Standard Bank Hermanus, Coastal Flooring, Talisman Hire, Hermanus Hardware, Overberg Computers, Hermanus Pharmacies, Safe Security, Kennedy & Hattingh, Seeff Hermanus, and Toyota Hermanus.

Thank you to the sponsors of the spectacular prizes: Skin Harbour - for sponsoring a weekend at Harbour Lights in Struisbaai; Karoo Art Hotel in Barrydale; the Kennedy Family for sponsoring the prize at Langebaan, and Pam Delport for the donation of the lamb as a prize for the lucky draw.

Plus a big thanks for the cash donations from: CCS Plant Hire, PSG Wealth, Onrus Pharmacy, Penny Pinchers, Coastal Trusses, and African Jewels Arabella.

Last but not the least, thank you to the entertainers for providing the life of the party: Rewind 60s band and Fanie de Jager.

Congratulations to the winners: 1st Prize - St Pauls

But our region not only offers art, food, wine and sporting delights – great care is also taken of our environment.

Read more about the rescue of four big cats from an abandoned zoo in Argentina by locally based Panthera Africa on P3 and the efforts to conserve our flora on P7.

Send your letter to news@thehermanusnews.co.za

Izibusiso Foster Home says thank you Last Saturday a fundraiser in the form of a Potjiekos Competition was held on the church premises in aid of Izibusiso Foster Home – an outreach of the United Church in collaboration with Child Welfare.

Art Stroll. Read more about the art scene in our region on P 10 & 11.

Sheila Lyle Izibusiso Administration

More letters on P 4

No more peace and quiet in Onrus I have lived off the Old Main Road, Onrus for 5 years now and in that time there has been an increase in traffic flow. Not in itself a problem, as I expect an increase in noise during peak hours.

What concerns me more is the speed of the traffic during the quieter times. Because of the very straight stretch between the petrol station and the OK Mini Market, it is treated like a racetrack.

I used to be able to sit with the patio doors open – but not anymore! It is also very dangerous with most vehicles

well exceeding the 60km/h speed limit. As there are no proper footpaths it is a concern for pedestrians, particularly in the holiday periods.

I would suggest extra stop streets and speed humps to solve the problem – it seems to work well on Mountain Drive.

And also a visit by the naughty speed camera could collect a few Rand for the Traffic Department.

Perhaps other residents or the Municipality would like to pass comment.

Denis Fryer

Let’s wait for the mall I refer to the letter by JP Claxton, New mall an eyesore (The Village News, 11 April 2017).

Wish I also had the gift to visualise exactly what the Mall will look like when it is completed!

In any case, it would be interesting to see the writer’s concept of what he considers to be aesthetically acceptable as well as making economic sense.

Or is this again just a case of “Beste stuurman staan aan wal?”

Hekkies

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25 April 2017

Panthera rescues zoo animals “The 17-year-old Tika has spent her whole life at the zoo after being bought from a nature reserve. Tuna has been at the zoo for six years after she was bought from a circus,” says Lizaene.

De Waal Steyn

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he Overstrand will soon be home to two lionesses and two tigers that were left stranded in a zoo in Argentina after it closed down in 2014.

The rescue operation has become a reality after the Stanford-based big cat sanctuary, Panthera Africa, was able to raise a whopping R740 000.

This will cover the costs for transport, the building of three new enclosures, permits and procedures, and a flight ticket for their own vet to ensure everything runs smoothly.

According to owners Cathrine Nyquist and Lizaene Cornwall, R75 000 was raised during a fundraising dinner in Stanford at the beginning of April. “We also received two large donations from anonymous donors from both hemispheres and we have now reached our goal of R740 000,” says an excited Cathrine.

“We were contacted in January for an urgent rescue of big cats from a closed-down zoo in Argentina. They are currently merely surviving in 25 square metre concrete cages with minimum sunlight. At the moment their basic needs in terms of water and food are being met, but it is important to get them into a sanctuary where they can roam

Baguira in the small trailer that she lived in for 6 years after the circus that bought her did not have the finances or space to train her. She will soon have her own enclosure to run around in when she is moved to Panthera Africa. about and feel less stressed.

“The tigers, Tika and Tuna and lions Baguira and Tomasa, will be brought to South Africa together with three other lions who have found a home in a sanctuary in the Free State,” she says.

“Initially we would have only taken in the two tigers, but when we saw Baguira and Tomasa we realised that we really want to bring them here as well. Tomasa stole our heart as she is a 19-yearold lion and has lived her whole life in the small zoo enclosure. She

is in a very bad condition and through a contact in Argentina she is being fed vitamins to build up her system before we bring her here. We want her last years to be happy and without stress.”

According to Lizaene, Baguira’s story is especially tragic. “She was born 14 years ago and would initially have been trained as a circus animal. But due to a lack of finances and space this never happened and she survived for six years in a 1 x 2,5 metre trailer before being taken in by the zoo six years ago.

According to Cathrine there is still a lot of work that needs to be done, especially in getting all the necessary permits and documentation in place. It is expected that the tigers and lionesses will arrive in July and the Panthera team is working very hard to get their new homes ready for them.

As the animals are coming from very rough conditions, there will be a lot of aftercare with a specialised veterinarian.

Panthera is home to nine lions, two tigers, a black leopard and three caracals. Panthera offers two educational visits daily (closed on Tuesdays), at 10:00 and 15:00 depending on availability, so make sure to book at least a day or two in advance to ensure your spot. This is really something for everyone to see – you will leave a changed person, both more educated and with a sense of hope and love for this world.

Educational visits cost R240 for adults, R130 for children under 13, and R190 for pensioners.

Pre-bookings only. Visit www.pantheraafrica.com

Seagull, you are indeed a lucky fish!

A seagull can thank its lucky stars for the Hermanus NSRI after it inadvertently swallowed a fisherman’s bait. The hook not only got stuck in its beak, it got entangled in the fishing line, leaving it flapping helplessly in the water.

Members James Janse van Rensburg, André Barnard and Rosa Kunz of Hermanus NSRI Station 17 who were busy with training in the New Harbour on Saturday 22 April saw the commotion after the bird swallowed the bait and it was flailing in the water.

In true NSRI style they immediately sprang into action and swam out into the harbour to save the hapless bird.

“The bird was entangled in fishing line that was quickly cut and removed. The members took the bird to dry land and

with the help of a pair of pliers were able to remove the hook that stuck through the thin flesh just behind its beak,” said Station Commander Deon Langenhoven.

According to him the bird was slightly injured but after feeding it some fresh water, it immediately took flight when it was released. “The NSRI is on standby 24 hours a day and we will save anyone and anything that is in trouble,” said Deon.

The NSRI is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and the Hermanus NSRI its 40th in 2018.

To stand a chance of winning R10 000 per month or R100 000 in December simply become a donor by sending an email to monthlydraw@searescue.co.za

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The Wrath of Grapes: Uncorking the solution

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he high-ranking government officials decided to ignore protocol on two fronts. Firstly, they avoided an exorbitant fivestar hotel, and because the weekend symposium was at the internationally renowned Duck ‘n Fiddle, they booked into the luxury cottages on the estate instead.

Secondly, they swapped the standard uniform worn by senior officials, dominees and Donald Trump - black suit, white shirt and red tie - for casual pants and open-neck shirts.

Midsummer in Heaven’s Valley is stifling. Deprived of the cool onshore winds by a range of hills, the oppressive stillness shimmers and the hot breezes jostle for breath.

Emma Kalema, spokesperson for the Department of Acquisitions for Formerly Targeted (DAFT) was also

Wit’s End

Murray Stewart

battling to breathe. She too was in casuals. She loved Hillary Clinton’s revival of the acrylic slack-suit, which blended informality with business-like efficiency, so she had one especially made for herself by Cedric the government seamstress.

Four months later, she’d gained a lump or two, and apart from the waistband having mysteriously shrunk, buttons and buttonholes in the jacket remained intact only when she breathed out.

Big problem. As the delegation’s main speaker, she just had to breathe, both out and in. Undeterred, she strode to the podium and grabbed the microphone confidently.

They’d formulated a catalyst to accelerate the fermentation of the powder to under a minute. Just pour the sachet into water, stir, and wait a bit.

Add ice, if necessary. Now as you can imagine, the wine farmers were up in arms.

At stake was solving the emotional issue of land

“The wine farmers were up in arms,” she flailed. “That’s until

We are thoroughly enjoying exploring the town and have come down half a dozen times since the apartment was finished in about October last year. We are loving the mountain biking trails. My hubby recently took part in his third Cape Epic and it was logistically easier than most years as he, his partner and another Irish team were able to make use of the apartment most days.

The Wine farms in the Hemelen-Aarde Valley are divine and we are also having great fun trying out the many restaurants in town. We already have a few firm favourites, but with over 70

The markets on Saturdays and Sundays are another favourite and a great place to meet new people. We haven’t even got around to the hiking trails yet and have yet to explore the mountain biking trails around Stanford.

My girls have their favourite spots for milkshakes but we are battling on the ice cream front. For sure there is the one shop, but at R58 for 2 scoops, it would mean spending over R200. We’ve found the gorgeous honey ice cream at the Honey Shop, but where else is there?

they understood how the scheme works. Then they were overwhelmingly in favour of it!”

Apparently this is how it works. The farmer supplies Guptech with his particular varietal of grape. This would be to flavour the chemicals in the powder, so it would taste like Cabernet or Riesling. The farmer though, will only need a quarter of his land to supply his quota for a handsome financial return, so he won’t need the other three-quarters of his farm. He won’t need to irrigate, weed, spray, prune, harvest or worry about it at all any more. This is where DAFT, Guptech and Gupfin Bank step in with their revolutionary redistribution program.

“Apart from the social upliftment,” continued Emma, “thanks to Gupfin Bank, farmers are guaranteed greater profits for a quarter of

the work. We can then utilise the excess land for settlements where people can plant their mielies or keep cattle and goats to eat… and some chickens for the vegetarians,” she added as an afterthought.

“A sachet - like Grandpa Headache Powder - is one glass of wine,” she explained, “so you could easily go to a concert or dinner party with the equivalent of five bottles of wine without anyone noticing.

Bottled water is allowed everywhere, so Vin de Gup is destined for great things globally.”

At the back of the auditorium Merlot producer Druiwe du Toit was delighted. Same return for a quarter of the work? Brilliant!

Next to him though, his neighbour and olive farmer Klippies Combrink felt dejected and marginalised. “How long must I wait,” he lamented, “until they invent powdered olive oil?”

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Searching for ice cream in Hermanus… restaurants, we have many still to try. The Cliff Path is sensational and the beaches are a firm favourite with my teenage daughters and their friends.

The breakthrough came from Guptech Laboratories in Delhi, conveniently owned by the brother of Gupfin Bank’s chairman. At last, after years of research, they’d perfected the formula that would revolutionise the approach to drinking wine. They had created what nobody thought possible – powdered wine, in sachets.

“Hello everybody, and welcome to those who have come from overseas to witness this historical breakthrough in government policy,” she said to the packed auditorium. “With the help of our technical partners in India, Guptech, and the formation of our new bank, Gupfin Bank, we as government can implement our policy, and everybody wins.”

Letters and opinions Last year my husband and I were lucky to be able to buy a holiday home in Hermanus.

redistribution, while granting acceptable compensation to the farmers. The delegation chose the Cape wine farms as a pilot project, a blueprint for future ventures.

In contrast, last week I took my daughters to Stellenbosch to have a look around. In a matter of minutes we found three or four ice cream shops.

We stopped at one, bought 3 ice creams and it cost R84 in total (R32 for 2 scoops instead of R58 in Hermanus).

So have we just not found any hidden gems or is the ice cream shop at the waterfront the only place to go? I would imagine that it could be a very seasonal business – but here’s hoping that we see some more reasonably priced Popup Gelato stands springing up at some of the markets or setting up in town.

From a very happy recent import to Hermanus.

Donna

Well done to the Traffic Department I recently had the agonising and never-looking-forwardto-do duty to obtain a roadworthy certificate for a vehicle in Hermanus.

Mine was the last of four vehicles accepted for testing just before closing time on a Friday afternoon and did not

pass the test the first time around.

But the management, testing officials and administrative staff with whom I interacted during this and the subsequent test the following week, certainly did. Their friendly and helpful attitude

and professional service changed a negative perception of roadworthiness to a positive experience that is worthy of praise.

Well done to the Roadworthy Testing Centre for being part of the Good News in Hermanus.

Frans van Rensburg

Stalls taken over by the ‘well-heeled’ I was compelled and inspired to reply to DBR regarding the eviction of the Red Shed Traders (Don’t blame court order on Apartheid, The Village NEWS, 11 April 2017).

No, no, DBR. Most of what St John said went over your head. The problem of the tender process is over

regulated bureaucracy which keeps the legitimate but poor from continuing to earn a living and feed their families.

They paid their stall fees to the Municipality for 20 years and throughout the legal process of eviction.

Now the well-heeled have generally taken occupation of

the Red Sheds with a few token African craft stalls.

Tell me what is "Proudly South African" when goods are still purchased in Thailand, India, China or Bali but merely labeled "Made in South Africa". Wake up, as the truth will set you free.

E. B-W

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Hermanus - a town of two harbours

he Old Harbour is central to the sense of place of Hermanus – it was the origin of its economic activity and is now a National Monument – and is a vital drawcard, along with the whales, in enticing tourists to the town. The New Harbour, in contrast, is some distance from the usual tourist routes and is virtually un-signposted. There is little activity and few visitors, or even residents, know of it at all.

You can wander freely in and out of the Old Harbour, but have to pay R5 every time you want to enter the New Harbour.

The original harbour of Hermanus was called ‘Visbaai’ (Fish Bay) for nearly 100 years and only became the Old Harbour after the New Harbour had been built. But if similar-sized and even larger coastal towns in South Africa have only one harbour, how did it come about that Hermanus has two harbours? asks Dr ROBIN LEE of the Hermanus History Society.

At the same time angling and fishing in Walker Bay was being further damaged by foreign trawlers – during the ‘60s and ‘70s up to 80 foreign trawlers were recorded in the bay over a weekend. Eventually, gross over-fishing led to activity at the harbour falling away to almost nothing and the underutilised fish-processing factories closed. Only ski-boats and dinghies still operated on a small scale and occasionally a motorised fishing vessel would tie up at the quay and sell snoek out of hand.

How has this strange set of facts come about? To answer that question we have to first turn our attention to Visbaai, and how it became the Old Harbour.

In the mid-1850s a small group of families was living at an inlet in the cliffs called Herries Bay (now in Hawston) and sustaining themselves by fishing. Herries Bay was really quite unsuitable for the launching and landing of boats and the families became aware of an alternative inlet at a nearby village called Hermanuspietersfontein. In 1857 all five families moved to the village and over the next 70 years a fishing industry grew up around Visbaai that supported most of the village inhabitants.

Some minor improvements were made to the original cove, including a wall and a layer of concrete over the rock ramp on which the boats landed, but the environment was quite hostile to the development of a busy commercial harbour.

The two greatest drawbacks were, firstly, that the site was not protected at all from the ocean currents and swells, and only one boat at a time could negotiate the narrow entrance.

Secondly, there were no anchor moorings and boats had to be carried up a ramp by 16 men before the next boat could land.

As this took some time, boats would have to wait for hours at the harbour entrance for a chance to land their catch. As the earliest catch landed generally got the best prices, many disputes broke out

The industry was driven by the realisation that there was a market in the Far East that for all practical purposes could never be fully satisfied – which remains the case today.

However, the harvesting was unsustainable and by the early 1970s catches were dropping away to nothing and the divers departed to other pastures.

The Hermanus New Harbour in the 1950s (photos left) and today (photos right). regarding places in the queue.

any part of the harbour built.

In 1930 the then Harbourmaster at Hermanus, H R Hall, was instructed to find an alternative to Visbaai and produced an excellent report which identified a larger and deeper inlet to the west of the town that was known to the fisher community as ‘Stilbaai’ (and to Mr Hall as ‘Still Bay’).

The origin of the name is obscure – and deceptive – since Still Bay has produced some of the wildest swells and currents ever seen around Hermanus.

The Great Depression of the 1930s curtailed almost all capital expenditure and the report was filed. In 1938 the report was revived, but had barely been discussed before South Africa was involved in the Second World War and small harbours were not a priority. So a report written in 1930 was only implemented from about 1948 onwards, with most work done in 1951 and 1952.

Hall proposed two breakwaters, one on the south side of the inlet and the second angling from the northern shore towards the first breakwater, leaving a small opening for access. He clearly stated in his report that the second breakwater was absolutely necessary to ensure reasonably calm water in the harbour. The second breakwater has never been built – in fact, Hall never saw

The contract to build the harbour was awarded to J Donaldson and Co. and the southern breakwater was tackled first, but proved to be a major headache. The sea washed powerfully over the construction, rolling away the huge concrete blocks being used and on at least two occasions (and perhaps four) the huge cranes needed to lift the concrete blocks were themselves washed away.

However, the company

persisted and in due course there was enough breakwater in place to build the quayside.

The cliff on the western side of the inlet had to be blasted out for about 30 metres to create working space.

The harbour was ‘complete’ by 1952 (except for the second breakwater). The boats using Visbaai were encouraged to move to the New Harbour and did so gradually.

Unfortunately, almost exactly when the New Harbour opened, fish catches started to decline. This was mostly a consequence of large-scale trawling in Walker Bay, which has continued until today, though long since illegal.

The boomlet set off by the New Harbour was not for fishermen: it was for a mixed group of adventurers, many from Europe, who came to dive for ‘perlemoen’ (abalone). It was their boats and dinghies that populated the space recently built in Still Bay.

The abalone, a sea creature related to the snail, had been a delicacy for decades, but available only near where it was harvested. Local fisher families had a whole variety of ways of preparing it. The ‘shells’ (another word in use then) were so plentiful that they could be picked off the rocks at low tide.

The boom lasted from about 1950 to about 1970 and was driven by the sheer quantity of abalone that lived along the coast. One well-informed observer recorded that in the 1960s, 6 000 cases of abalone were despatched from the processing plants each year – with 72 cans in each case and 1, 5 abalone (on average) in each can, this amounts to 648 000 individual abalone.

Divers were paid 6 pence per abalone and the average catch for an individual diver was 1 000 shells a day. The daily income was £25 – more than a month’s wages in most unskilled jobs ashore.

Another reason for the stagnation of the New Harbour was the fact that, once built, its management passed to central government, but in 15 different departments over time. This meant that there was little consistent maintenance and no consistent relation with the various forms of local government in Hermanus. More than one request by Council to complete the Harbour by constructing the eastern breakwater was denied by Government.

The New Harbour is an underutilised asset to the town. At present, it offers few attractions except the two restaurants, the whale watching charters and the Ski Boat Club. The way forward is for the New Harbour to be developed as a multipurpose facility to meet recreational needs of the community and to attract tourists. Many small fishing harbours around the world where commercial fishing is no longer practised, have successfully reinvented themselves by offering recreational fishing, boat trips, boutique shops, galleries and restaurants, and providing an attractive venue for special events that draw both residents and visitors.

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25 April 2017

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BUCO: A change in name… nothing else!

he more things change, the more they stay the same.” Anon

the other stores. This fact was not only recognised by the customers, who voted with their Rands, but by the PG Bison Group and later Steinhoff Africa, with Pennypinchers Hermanus being voted Store of the Year for five years in succession, making it arguably the most successful Pennypinchers ever to have opened its doors.

This is true of many things but none more so than for Pennypinchers in Hermanus.

The Gateway Centre building has acquired a bright new orange face, logo and trading name – BUCO. But for now, nothing else.

Long may that proud tradition continue in its new coat of orange.

The Pennypinchers brand has an interesting history. Few people will know that the original ‘pennypinchers’ was a second-hand trading store. An apt name for a business counting its customers’ shillings if ever there was one.

The record books have it the Pennypinchers general hardware store dates right back to the early 1960s. Starting in Cape Town with one store, the brand was quick to expand into other areas, one being in Tokai main road at the now infamous Spotty Dog. Once the location of a drive-in road house, the Spotty Dog landmark can still be seen today watching over the passing traffic into Muizemberg and the warm Indian Ocean surfers’ paradise.

In Hermanus, Pennypinchers

Pennypinchers Hermanus at the Gateway Centre has acquired a bright new orange face, logo and trading name – BUCO. opened doors in the heart of the town’s business district back in 1983, moving to the industrial area two years later in April ‘85. It was only in the year 2000 that a custom-built store was erected specifically for Pennypinchers at the Gateway Centre just off the R43 – where the brand has made its mark, grown and flourished to this day.

“Hermanus was essentially a holiday town,” explains Neil Mulder, BUCO owner operator.

“The change of trading name to BUCO Hermanus is just that – a change of name – and the proud history and tradition together with the total focus on customer intimacy supported by the teamwork of the staff, will long continue to make BUCO Hermanus a great place to do business,” says Neil Mulder, new BUCO Hermanus Owner Operator.

“As the founding Owner Operator of Pennypinchers Overberg, I wish Neil and his team and the customers and suppliers of BUCO Hermanus, many years of success under the new brand.” John Makepeace (now retired.)

“As a holiday destination, the typical general hardware store had to adapt to its customers’ needs – so in addition to

being the DIY and builders’ friend, we also stock tents, outdoor and camping equipment. And, obviously, a

host of Weber braais.”

The turn of the century saw Pennypinchers focusing on serving not only Hermanus, but the greater Overberg region. The highly successful move to their purpose-built premises at Gateway with a customer drive thru, together with the huge customer and staff focus, quickly established Pennypinchers Hermanus as the leading business within the group and the benchmark against which to measure all

Lynette May – Creditors Clerk 32 years of service excellence and still going strong. 1 April 1985, Lynette started her life-long career at Pennypinchers Hermanus.

Fresh out of school, April’s Fool will always be remembered as a day of celebration… the day she was employed as the store’s telephone operator and front desk receptionist.

Lynette moved into financial administration to become the store’s Debtors Clerk and now Creditors Clerk.

“I love my work. It’s a happy place. It’s sad to say goodbye to Pennypinchers. But I’m good for many more years with BUCO,” says the smiling Lynette.

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25 April 2017

The environmental legacy of Frank Woodvine Hedda Mittner

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n outing to the Bouchard Finlayson boutique wine estate in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley usually entails some serious wine tasting, but on a recent visit I discovered the no less intoxicating pleasure of hiking through the botanical splendour of the farm. I was amazed to learn that the estate’s treasures are not all to be found in the cellar, but lie scattered across its fynbos-clad mountains, ravines and wetlands.

As a World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Conservation Champion, the Bouchard Finlayson estate has only 22 hectares under vine, while the remaining 100 hectares remain as natural fynbos that is protected in the interest of biodiversity. And no one knows this floral paradise better than Frank Woodvine, who is the farm’s very own resident conservationist and amateur botanist.

Guided Nature Walks Despite being 87 years old, Frank would be an excellent candidate for the British television series Are you fitter than a Pensioner? He clearly knows every inch of this land like the back of his hand, and his intimate knowledge of the Cape Floral Kingdom and the rich biodiversity of the farm turns a guided nature walk into a wide-eyed journey of discovery.

After a career in environmental conservation spanning more than 60 years, the outdoors is Frank’s natural habitat and embarking on a 10 km hike that comprises some pretty steep up- and downhills requires no special effort for him – in fact, many a much younger city sleeker might have a spot of bother keeping up with Frank.

Visitors have a choice of three different Walking Trails – 45 minutes, 60 minutes and two and a half hours. The cost is R300 for up to 6 people and thereafter an additional R50 per

person, with a maximum of 12 people in a group. The trails are also available free of charge to nature lovers who prefer self-guided walks – hikers may collect maps and sign indemnity forms at the cellar door. It would be a pity though, to be deprived of Frank’s expert guidance and wealth of fascinating information.

The Red Route (2,5 hours) incorporates an extended Forest Loop in the Galpin’s Kloof, after which the estate’s famous Pinot Noir is named.

This part of Afro-montane forest is one of the few still surviving on the northern slopes of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley and carries some fine specimens of indigenous trees. It is the only section of land on the estate sheltered from the strong winds and veld fires, allowing fine specimens of Rooiels (Cunonia capensis), Boekenhout (Rapanea melanophloes), Cape Holly (Ilex mitis) and others to flourish here. The Forest Loop trail reaches a small, grassy sward at the foot of a waterfall that is ideal for a picnic.

WWF Conservation Champion It is largely due to Frank’s tireless work as environmental consultant at Bouchard Finlayson over more than a decade that the estate is acknowledged as an environmental leader in the industry for its commitment to conservation, responsible production practices, and integrated environmental management systems, and for spearheading innovations in water, energy efficiency and climate adaptation.

More than 330 plant species of the Cape’s precious fynbos flora have been identified on the farm, some of which are scarce and protected, such as Witsenia maura (commonly known as the Bokmakierieriet), which was thought to be locally extinct in the greater Hermanus region. The walks may also include other exciting sightings such as the first bloom of the Gladiolus

Conservationist and Nature Guide Frank Woodvine points to the wetland area on the Bouchard Finlayson wine estate which is being restored to its natural state.

Frank explains how biological control is used to eradicate the alien species of myrtle on the farm by introducing a leafeating caterpillar from Australia. Other alien-clearing methods include ring-barking and releasing a fungus which has almost eliminated seed production among the invasive Port Jackson willows on the estate.

Among the many fynbos species found on the farm are Saltera Sarcocolla (Vlieëbos). The best time to see the wildflowers is during the spring months when they are in bloom after the winter rains.

Rooiels trees (Cunonia capensis) are only found in Galpin’s Kloof on the estate, where they are protected from wind and fire.

bullatus, also known as the Caledon Bluebell, and many different species of Erica and Protea. Hikers may also be lucky enough to spot South Africa’s national bird, the Blue Crane, as well as grysbok and mongoose, and on rare occasions could even come across footprints of the elusive Cape mountain leopard, which is known to roam through this region.

Apart from laying out kilometres of hiking trails and recording the many rare species of fynbos found on the farm, the back-breaking activities that Frank has undertaken at Bouchard Finlayson include removing alien vegetation by means of physical, biological and chemical control, restoring a large wetland and instituting a composting programme which combines cellar waste with chippings from alien clearing and then recycles them back into the vineyards as compost.

Under his guidance, and in collaboration with the viticulturist, wine-making is done in partnership with nature, by protecting both the vineyards and the wildlife on the farm.

Wildlife strips have been implemented, bird census has been introduced, Blue Crane nesting sites are avoided, and owls have been encouraged to thrive by bringing in owl boxes.

Passionate conservationist and botanist Born in Lancashire, Frank did his diploma in Forestry in Wales and worked for the UK Forestry Commission before moving to erstwhile Rhodesia in 1955 to oversee the rehabilitation of oak woodland. He ended up spending 21 years in remote wilderness areas teeming with wildlife, often hundreds of miles from the nearest town, and where none of the local inhabitants spoke any English.

When he wed his wife Val in Bulawayo in 1960, the couple even started their married life in a tent, but fortunately Val

grew to love the bush as much as Frank did and never regretted leaving her native Manchester to start a new life with him on the dark continent.

With the Bush War dragging on, life in Rhodesia became increasingly difficult for the Woodvine family, which now included their two young daughters.

“I’d never heard of Hermanus,” says Frank, “but when I saw an advertisement in the Sunday Times for the post of curator of Fernkloof Nature Reserve, I applied. Val and I travelled to Hermanus for the interview and were pleasantly surprised to find a delightful little fishing village surrounded by nature.”

An added advantage was the sudden access to luxuries such as fresh milk and daily newspapers, which they’d never enjoyed before!

Frank took up the position in 1976 and served as curator of Fernkloof, and later as superintendent of Nature Reserves, Parks and Gardens for the newly established Overstrand Municipality, for almost 20 years, spearheading conservation and ecotourism in the area. On retirement in 1995 he served as chair of the Fernkloof Advisory Board for five years, and as a member for many more. He is also a life member of the Hermanus Botanical Society and founder member of the Cliff Path Management Group.

After 55 years of marriage, Frank’s beloved Val sadly passed away in 2015. Despite his advanced age and the fact that he “retired” 12 years ago, Frank is still actively working six days a week and continues to make an invaluable contribution to our constantly threatened natural environment.

At the end of our walk he apologised for “maybe talking too much” and I was quick to assure him that he had been an excellent guide. “You were fantastic!” I said, to which he bashfully replied: “My dear, it’s been a long time since a lady said that to me.” What a charmer.

NEWS

GOOD

8

25 April 2017

stroll from gallery to gallery, meet the artists and mingle with fellow art lovers. (Find the HFF map and more info on P 10.)

Tuesday 25 April ■ Night Skies: Join thephotowalkers.com for a fun night out learning how to photograph the stars and night skies, from 20:00 – 22:00. Meet at the Onrus Trading Post at 19:30 and travel in convoy from there. R500 pp; to book contact Leanne Dryburgh on 083 293 7208.

Thursday 27 April ■ The Colour of Hope: The inspirational guest speakers include Lize van der Walt, Alexa Kirsten and Riekert Botha, with a performance by the Pro Musica Choir. Drinks and snacks will be provided by Hermanus Staan Saam. Tickets at R100 pp are available from Mariet on 071 520 4012 or the church office. At the Dutch Reformed Church, Hermanus, at 11:00.

Every Saturday ■ 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.

■ Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine

Market: In the courtyard at HPF cellar, The Village, from 09:00-14:00. Where wine and food lovers both local and international meet.

■ The Hermanus Country Market: A

favourite among the locals, young and old.

Fresh local produce, wholesome goodies, and home-made crafts. Next to the cricket field, Fairways Avenue, from 09:00-13:00.

■ Market in the Garden: Set among the trees in the heart of town, at St Peter’s Church in Main Road, from 09:00-13:00.

Every Sunday ■ Lemm’s Corner Sunday Market: Fabulous fine arts and crafts, gourmet eats, craft beers and wine bar. On the corner of Main and Harbour Roads, from 10:00 – 15:00.

■ 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.

Friday 28 April ■ Hermanus Hacking Group: Meet at the bottom of Rotary Way at 06:15 for 06:30 every Friday. All volunteers welcome. Contact Charlyn Vosloo on 082 558 8731 for more details.

■ Sketchcrawl: All artists and sketchers are welcome to join in a morning of plein air sketching in Stanford, with its beautiful scenery and architecture. Meet at the Ou Meul restaurant at 08:30 and bring your own art supplies, a chair and sun hat. For more info, contact Charmé on 082 773 9125.

■ Hi-Tec Walkerbay Xtreme: A unique threeday multi-sport adventure festival, with all the action centred at the Race Pavilion at the Old Harbour in Hermanus. Find all the details on P 22.

■ Bhuki Café: Enjoy tea, coffee and eats for only

■ Pringle Bay Village Festival: The festival kicks off on Saturday with the very popular walk/run held monthly in the village. Attractions include live music, a fully-licensed bar with plenty of seating, an Art Route, children’s activities, a dog show, wine tasting and a variety of arts and crafts, and take-away meals.

R20 (2 eats) or R30 (3 eats) to support the Friends of Hermanus Library, every Friday from 09:00 - 11.30.

Sunday 30 April

■ ‘Kolwyntjie-Teetuin’: Everyone in the area is

introduce you to an understanding of your equipment so that you can enjoy your photographic journey to its fullest. Practice with your own camera, in a small group, and on location with an Accredited Professional Photographer. Meet at The Photo Shed on Market Square (opposite Oskars). From 09:00 – 11:30.

Contact Leanne Dryburgh on 083 293 7208.

country markets offering food, wine, beer, crafts, live music and fun for the whole family on the last Friday of every month. At Market Square, from 18:00 – 20:00.

look forward to a selection of the hits that have made Chris Chameleon a household name throughout the years, as well as a collection of new work from his much anticipated album Jy en Ek en Ek en Jy. Food and drinks will be available. Tickets are R120 pp (children U12 free) and gates open at 17:00. At The Tasting Room at Stanford Hills.

Contact 072 639 6135.

■ Arno Carstens Live: This popular local

musician will perform at the Gecko Bar at the New Harbour, from 19:00 – 22:00. Tickets are R150 pp.

Contact 028 312 4665.

Monday 1 May ■ Classic Monday Bridge Club: Duplicate

Bridge, every Monday at 13:00, at Fernkloof Hall.

To join the club, contact Riekie on 072 230 9179.

Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 April

Wednesday 3 May

■ Elgin Cool Wine & Country Food Festival: Join the Elgin Wine Valley at this annual weekend celebration for exceptional cool climate wine, delicious country fare and outdoor entertainment.

A weekend pass to the festival costs R140 pp, available from Webtickets or on the day from the festival office at the Peregrine Farm Stall for R160 pp. Children younger than 18 and accompanied by an adult may enter for free.

Get all the information on P 9.

■ Hermanus Photographic Society: Anyone who has an interest in photography and would like to improve their skills is welcome to join the meetings of the Hermanus Photographic Society (affiliated to the Photographic Society of South Africa) on the first Wednesday of every month. At the Hermann Swart Hall, Dutch Reformed Church Hermanus, at 19:00. Find more details at www.hermanusphoto.co.za or send an email to info@hermanusphoto.co.za.

Sunday market also trades on the first Friday evening of the month to coincide with the Artwalk.

You’ll find exclusive fine arts and crafts, locally manufactured clothing, accessories and home décor, as well as delicious specialty foods, craft beers and a wine bar. On the corner of Main and Harbour Road, Hermanus, from 17:00 – 20:30.

Saturday 6 May ■ Applewood Harvest Festival: Celebrate the end of the busy harvest season with this applethemed festival and the Tru-Cape Trail Running Challenge in the scenic Elgin Valley. Experience the best of the region’s gourmet artisanal and farmgrown produce, craft cider and Elgin wines. There will be lots of entertainment for young and old, from live music to hay-diving, zip-lining and apple bobbing, as well as loads of beautiful crafts and goodies from local artisans. The Tru-Cape Trail Run offers both an 11 km Trail Run (starting at 08:30) through the surrounding farmlands, or a more gentle 5 km Fun Run (starting at 09:00) through the apple and pear orchards. At Applewood Preparatory School, Appletiser Road, Elgin. Visit www.applewood.co.za for more information or call 021 848 9121.

Saturday 6 – Sunday 7 May

in Hermanus for three performances – a Master Class on Wednesday 3 May at 15:00, a Gala Performance on Friday 5 May at 18:30 (incl. snacks & wine), and two shows on Saturday 6 May, at 11:00 and 15:00. The programme will include The Dying Swan, La Traviata and Esmeralda as well as contemporary works by South African choreographers. At the Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus. Book online at www.webtickets.co.za or call Colleen Naudé on 083 301 6061 or Sue Holmes on 082 762 5644.

■ My Camera Basics: This course will gently

■ Stanford Sunset Market: One of the few real

■ An Evening with Chris Chameleon: Fans can

■ Beating TB with Ballet: Joburg Ballet will be

Thursday 4 May

invited to enjoy a sweet treat and tea or coffee at the Onrusrivier Care Centre (‘Dienssentrum’) of the Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus for only R30, every Friday between 09:30 and 11:30.

Saturday 29 April

Wednesday 3 – Saturday 6 May

■ Lemm’s Corner Night Market: This popular

Friday 5 May ■ Hermanus Hacking Group: Meet at the bottom of Rotary Way at 06:15 for 06:30 every Friday. All volunteers welcome. Contact Charlyn Vosloo on 082 558 8731 for more details.

■ Antiques Road Show: Enjoy tea, coffee and eats for only R20 (2 eats) or R30 (3 eats) at the Bhuki Café. This week’s special guest is Benadé Kruger, owner of The Book Collector. Bring along your precious old books for his opinion and valuation. At Hermanus Library, from 09:00 - 11.30.

■ ‘Kolwyntjie-Teetuin’: Everyone is welcome to enjoy a sweet treat and tea or coffee at the Care Centre (‘Dienssentrum’) of the Dutch Reformed Church, Onrus for only R30, every Friday between 09:30 and 11:30.

■ Hermanus First Fridays: Join the 18 art galleries in the centre of Hermanus as they remain open until 20:00 for this month’s Heart of Abalone First Fridays Artwalk. Follow the orange as you

■ Houw Hoek MTB Tour: This annual favourite 2day MTB stage event affords riders the opportunity to enjoy a weekend of scenic fun and noncompetitive riding on popular W2W routes. Each of the two stages are approximately 50 km, mostly on gravel roads, including jeep and single tracks. The tour sets off From the Houw Hoek Hotel in Elgin at 08:00 on Saturday and finishes at Hermanuspietersfontein winery in Hermanus on Sunday.

Registration on 5 May from 16:00 – 20:00 and on 6 May from 06:00 – 07:30 at the Houw Hoek Hotel.

Individual entries only at R800 pp. Enter online at www.mtb-adventures.co.za

Monday 8 May ■ Birdlife Overberg Monthly Talk: Johan Rothman, an expert on RAMSAR sites and the state of the country’s estuaries, will be the speaker at this month’s Birdlife Overberg meeting. Johan will present an overview of the problems faced by several of our estuaries with this brilliantly illustrated talk. Catering at R80 per head; bring your own drinks and glasses. RSVP: Helé at birding@southernartceramics.com or 073 456 0393.

At the Mollergren Park Community Hall, at 18:30 for 19:00.

Tuesday 9 May ■ Talk on Wills: Minister Clifford Heys will talk about the living will, organ donation, how and why to draw up a will, and practical steps to follow when someone has died. At the Onrusrivier Care Centre (‘Dienssentrum’), Dutch Reformed Church Onrus, at 10:00.

Village

EXPLORER The

FOOD • WINE • ART

Get ready for a cool festival in Elgin

T

he harvest has come to an end, the vineyards are decked in their autumn finery and just as the first vestiges of winter can be felt in the crisp air, the Elgin Wine Valley opens its doors to visitors from far and wide for the annual Elgin Cool Wine and Country Food Festival, which is to be held over the weekend of 29 – 30 April from 10:00 until 17:00 daily.

Each of the participating wineries will offer a unique programme, allowing patrons to tailor-make their experience according to their personal preferences. Award-winning wines, delectable culinary experiences, a plethora of outdoor activities, live entertainment and natural scenic wonders will ensure that visitors, young and old, enjoy a memorable time in this hospitable valley.

Tailor-made Wine Tastings Wine Connoisseur? Wine Lover?

Or novice? Enjoy the variety of tailor-made tasting experiences that cater to everyone's needs – MCC tastings, chocolate and wine pairings, vertical tastings and casual, informal wine tastings – whilst revelling in the beauty of the tranquil surrounds of the Elgin Valley.

Live Entertainment Let down your hair, jiggle a jive and get the party started with popular artists and groups such as the Ike Moriz Duo, Peter Liebbrandt and Jared Prior Entertainment performing a variety of genres, including rock, blues and country, Come Hungry A plethora of delicious foods to

• Take a photo during the festival • Share it on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag

• Mention/tag @Wines of Elgin and the wine farm where you shot it.

Finalists announced on Wednesday 10 May. Voting opens on 15 May and the top rated photo on 15 May at 5pm wins.

be served by the various wine farms, from pop-up kitchens to food trucks, pulled pork rolls, tapas and sushi to delicious cheese platters, à la carte menus and fillet on the grill – all appetites will be satisfied. For the little tummies there will be candy floss, pizza, popcorn, hamburgers and slush puppies.

Kiddies Fun While mom and dad sip and sample, the kiddies can enjoy fun times with the many activities on offer in the valley – from tractor rides, jumping castles, face painting, lawn games, and boules courts to wide open spaces to run and play.

Bookings Early bird entry tickets to the festival cost R140 pp (children younger than 18 and accompanied by an adult may enter for free) and can be bought online from www.webtickets.co.za. Your ticket includes a tasting glass, festival programme, access to participating farms, live entertainment and wine tasting of a selection of three wines of your choice at any of the participating wine estates.

Depending on availability, tickets may be purchased on the day at the Elgin Cool Wine & Country Food festival office at the Peregrine Farm Stall at R160 per person.

Tasting glasses and festival programmes must be collected at the festival office at Peregrine Farm Stall prior to visiting any of the farms.

Guests are advised to prebook activities and meals as space is limited and payable separately.

Participating wineries The 16 wineries participating in this annual festival are: Almenkerk, Arumdale, Belfield Wines, Charles Fox MCC, Corder Wines, Elgin Ridge, Elgin Vintners, Hannay, Highlands Road, Iona, Oak Valley, Oneiric, Paul Cluver, Paul Wallace Wines, Shannon Vineyards and South Hill.

To plan your weekend and find out more about what will be on offer at the various venues, some of which require pre-booking, go to ecwcf.winesofelgin.co.za to download the map and programme.

Don't Drink & Drive Please note that the festival promotes designated drivers and the responsible use of alcohol. No alcohol will be served to children under 18 years.

Photo competition Don’t forget to take your camera and enter the #ElginCoolFest competiton on Social media.

10

Village Explorer

25 April 2017

Artists’ interpretation of Hemel & Aarde

D

Collen Maswanganyi, Theo Paul Vorster, Lientjie Wessels, Ruhan Janse van Vuuren and Daya Heller.

The participating artists include Ronel Human, Paula van Coller Louw, Cathy Layzell, Rossouw van der Walt, Jenny Parsons, Alice Toich, Madelein Marincowitz, Rebecca Jones, André Prinsloo, Brahm van Zyl, Kelly John Gough, Haidee Nel,

The gallery was also the venue for the launch of the Vermont Onrus Second Saturdays (VOSS) Art Stroll over the Easter weekend. On the Saturday afternoon between 17:00 and 19:00 several artists’ studios and galleries were opened to the public, giving art lovers the opportunity to

aniël Kok Gallery at The Village is currently hosting a group exhibition titled Hemel en Aarde, curated by Carina du Randt.

HEART of ABALONE ARTWALK The Hermanus First Fridays Artwalk on 5 May is being sponsored by Heart of Abalone – the Hermanus based tourism company that conducts in-depth tours of Abagold, the abalone farm situated in the New Harbour.

The tours provide a fascinating insight into this unique facility – yet another one of the tourist gems of Hermanus. Participants in the Artwalk will be able to purchase beautiful abalone shell pendants, donated by Heart of Abalone, at any of the participating galleries for only R20, and stand the chance of winning a Heart of Abalone tour or a magnificent pair of Geta Finlayson sterling silver abalone shell earrings (PHOTO).

get to know the many artists who live and work in the Onrus / Vermont area. Among them are Grant Preston, Hennie Niemann Snr, The Small Gallery, Vermont Contemporary Art Gallery, Die Groen Deur and The Gallery in Onrus.

The next VOSS Art Stroll will take place on Saturday 13 May. Any artists or galleries that would like to join the Art Stroll, can contact Teressa Jones on 072 796 2018.

Village Explorer

15 April 2017

11

Liz Coates puts a skip in your art step Hermanus First Fridays right from the start. The first event was launched within six weeks and was a truly collective effort.”

Hedda Mittner

W

hile there is no shortage of people with creative ideas in Hermanus, it takes a special kind of person to implement them successfully and actually get things done. One such person is Liz Coates, the owner of Pure South Gallery in Main Road, chair of the Hermanus First Fridays committee and curator of the annual FynArts ceramics exhibition.

Liz was born in Scotland and lived there until the age of five when she moved to Zimbabwe (then Southern Rhodesia) with her family, while her husband Gerald originally hailed from Durham in England. In 1980 the couple moved from Zimbabwe to South Africa with their two young daughters and settled in Durban, where Gerald worked in the building trade. They later relocated to Cape Town and, when both their daughters moved to the UK, they followed suit and opened an art gallery in Brighton, selling South African arts and crafts – hence the name ‘Pure South’.

Liz Coates in her gallery, Pure South, surrounded by an array of colourful art, décor and fine craft.

The Artwalk has a different theme every month, with December set aside for The Night of 1000 Drawings. Liz first attended this event at the Good Hope Centre in Cape Town in August 2014 and immediately saw the potential of incorporating this initiative into the HFF. With the motto ‘Draw anything, with anything, on anything A5’, 1000 Drawings is an empowerment project that culminates in a one-night-only art sale of donated works to raise funds for a deserving cause.

But, Liz says, they both missed South Africa dearly. When they were approached by a couple who was interested in buying their shop, they decided to sell and return to the Cape.

“We had friends who lived at De Kelders and we’d often visited them,” says Liz. “We really liked the area and instead of returning to Cape Town, we decided to settle in Hermanus.”

Having secured premises in Main Road, Liz opened the doors to her new Pure South Gallery in December 2005 – and has been there ever since.

Liz immediately threw herself heart and soul into her new life in Hermanus and became involved with the Hermanus Business Chamber as well as Hermanus Tourism.

Since October 2014, Hermanus First Fridays (HFF) has gone from strength to strength and is now a monthly highlight enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. “The number of participating galleries has increased from 11 to 18 in just over two years and every gallery has benefitted from the HFF,” says Liz. “It’s not so much about direct sales on the night as it is about creating awareness and engaging our residents, many of whom have only now discovered the amazing range of art and fine craft available in our town. It is also a wonderful way to introduce our children to art.”

Artwalker and watercolour artist Maureen Tomaino and Liz’s husband Gerald in front of Pure South Gallery which is decked out in orange for the First Fridays Artwalk.

“I managed the Arts Portfolio of Hermanus Tourism and had monthly meetings with other gallery owners – Terry Kobus from Originals, Ian Macdonald from Lembu and Klaus Dembeck from Bellini. We came up with various initiatives to promote art in Hermanus, including the Art Amble, the Reuse Recycle Reinvent campaign and an annual Christmas shop

window display competition.”

Slowly but surely more galleries opened in Hermanus and more artists and gallery owners were joining in the efforts of the Arts Portfolio to promote Hermanus as an art destination.

“Inspired by the First Thursdays Artwalk in Cape Town and the Last Thursdays Artwalk in Stellenbosch, we

started discussions in the winter of 2014 on launching a similar initiative in Hermanus,” says Liz. “We decided to have the event on a Friday as that would hopefully encourage people to stay over for the night or the whole weekend.

Jenny Jackson came up with the colour orange (as in ‘Follow the Orange’) and all the galleries were enthusiastic about the whole idea of

The event originated in 2006 when an inter-city feeding scheme in Johannesburg called Paballo ya Batho had its delivery truck stolen. This left hundreds of homeless people without their one meal of the day. Their rescue plan of collecting donated A5 artworks that were sold at R100 each at a unique one-night exhibition resulted not only in the necessary funds for a new truck, but also in a concept that was embraced by the public and now runs in seven cities around the world,

including Cape Town, Berlin, Amsterdam, Dubai – and Hermanus.

“We decided to divide the donated A5 artworks between all the galleries, which exhibit them on pegs outside their premises all along the Artwalk route, instead of at one central venue,” continues Liz. The Night of 1000 Drawings took place for the third time in December 2016, and every year the funds raised are donated to three different local charities.

With the return of the Hermanus FynArts Festival in June, Liz will also once again be curating the ceramics exhibition at the Windsor Hotel.

“Ceramic art is my personal passion,” she says. “We started in 2013 with only 12 participating artists, but FynArts has grown exponentially over the last five years and we reached our maximum of 32 artists last year.”

This year’s exhibition, Forms of Expression 3, will feature both art and utility pieces and demonstrate the wide range of themes, styles and techniques inherent in the versatility and characteristics of clay and porcelain. The exhibition will be opened at the Windsor Hotel on 10 June by Ann Marais and art lovers will be able to view the works of the best of South Africa’s ceramic artists during the eight days of the festival.

Village Explorer

12

25 April 2017

Out with the old, in with the new S

everal restaurants and coffee shops in Hermanus have changed hands recently and I set out to make the new owners’ acquaintance and find out what they will be bringing to the table.

Caffè Blu Wessels van Vuuren baked his way into the hearts of many an Afrikaans-speaking family when he became the runner-up of the Koekedoor reality baking contest on KykNET last year.

Having never watched this popular 13 episode programme modelled on The Great British Bake Off, I had no idea of his fame until we sat down to a cup of coffee and several people who walked by not only recognised him, but stopped to chat as though they were old friends.

Wessels is still a bit bemused by all this attention, as he moved to Hermanus from Simons Town and there, he says, this did not happen to him as the residents are mostly English and don’t watch KykNET. But Hermanus residents just love this klong from the Kalahari, who was born in Olifantshoek and spent his early years in the small town of Kathu.

Wessels’ forté is, of course, baking, and his talents are being put to good use at Caffè Blu Espresso Bar, where he was appointed as the new manager at the beginning of February.

This coffee shop, conveniently situated at the Station Centre (which everyone seems to refer to as the Checkers Centre) had lost its mojo and was in dire need of a new breath of fresh air. Enter Wessels, who’s had the walls repainted, the seating reupholstered, and outside tables and umbrellas replaced.

He has also redeveloped the menu and added a range of his own delicious cakes, pastries and cookies that are freshly baked on the premises every day.

“It’s a great challenge and I’m looking forward to being more creative in future,” says Wessels as he fondly arranges a bunch of freshly-picked proteas in a

from up north – the couple had lived in Nelspruit for 26 years before they started looking for a new business opportunity.

What’s cooking

SOUTH AFRICA’S DARLING Wessels van Vuuren of Koekedoor fame is baking up a storm at Caffè Blu.

Restaurant News

By Hedda Mittner

vase. Which brings us to his other great love – horticulture.

Wessels is in fact a man of many facets, and in between qualifying as a teacher and later studying horticulture, he spent several years working in hotels and managing restaurants. Before applying and being chosen as one of 10 Koekedoor contestants out of a nationwide pool of a few thousand entries, he’d spent 10 years living in the UK. But something tells me he’s here to stay and more than happy to make a living doing the thing he has enjoyed most since he was a little boy – baking with his mom, aunt and grandmothers. “I couldn’t wait to get to school and learn to read and write so that I could start following recipes on my own,” he says with a smile. How sweet is that?

At the beginning of March they were back and opened their doors at the end of the month. They have already redone the interior and the next step will be to enclose the outside seating area which backs on to The Fisherman’s Cottage.

FROM NELSPRUIT TO HERMANUS Endria and Johan Post are the new owners of Café 1904 Restaurant.

FOLLOW THE RABBIT Zumandi and Vaughan Smal, Antoinette Maré, Daniel Bishop, Dalene van Dyk and Xandré Bishop of The White Rabbit Pub.

Find Caffè Blu on the corner of Mitchell and Lord Roberts Street, next to the Hermanus Tourism Bureau. They are open daily from 07:30 – 17:30 for breakfast, lunch, coffees, teas and sweet treats.

Call 028 312 4096.

Café 1904 Restaurant Another restaurant that recently changed hands is Café 1904 in Main Road near Lemm’s Corner. New owners Johan and Endria Post hail

“When Café 1904 popped up during our search we were immediately interested,” says Johan. They flew down in November last year to take a look and it was love at first sight when they found this intimate little restaurant housed in a traditional old fisherman’s cottage. “We saw loads of potential and made up our minds on the spot,” says Johan.

FROM FEATHERS TO FIGGS Caz Flynn and Penny Childs

Their new menu is diverse and caters for all tastes and appetites, from hearty breakfasts to light lunches, and from kiddies’ meals to substantial main dishes that include fish, chicken and mussels, with a special focus on meat dishes such as fillet and rump steak, sticky ribs, lamb shank and oxtail.

On the day I visited their meal of the day was a hearty beef stew for only R45. And then there are the milkshakes, smoothies, cakes and desserts – as I said, something for everyone.

“There aren’t many places that serve real boerekos,” says Endria, “and we are also looking forward to offering a traditional three course lunch on Sundays. We are not licensed yet and patrons are welcome to bring their own wine.”

Café 1904 Restaurant is open Wednesday to Monday (closed on Tuesdays) from 09:00 – 15:00 for breakfast, lunch and anything in between, and from 18:00 until late for dinner.

Call 082 564 6096 or 073 379 6924 to make a booking.

The White Rabbit Dalene van Dyk and her family are as local as they come – they have been in Hermanus for more than 22 years and their two daughters, Zumandi and Xandré, attended Babbel & Krabbel, Hermanus Primary and later Hermanus High School.

While Dalene’s husband Gerhard works in construction and is often away from home for months at a time, this energetic mother and her daughters recently embarked on a new venture together as the owners of The White Rabbit Pub. Sporting T-shirts with the motto “Follow the White Rabbit” (inspired by Alice in Wonderland), the team also includes Zumandi’s husband Vaughan Smal, who is in charge of admin and accounts.

Zumandi runs the kitchen, while sister Xandré, who is a Grade 1 teacher at Curro Hermanus and her husband Daniel Bishop, a personal trainer at the Eastcliff Gym, help out in the afternoons and evenings.

The premises of The White Rabbit in Long Street previously housed Dorf Krug, which closed down towards the end of last year. Dalene says she felt there was a need for a late-night pub in Hermanus and that many of their patrons come to The White Rabbit after the restaurants have closed. “We draw both the younger crowd and older people; locals, swallows and visitors,” she says.

They are open daily from 12 noon until 02:00, and along with a full bar, offer real ‘pub grub’ such as chicken livers, Jalapeno poppers, bangers and mash, sticky ribs and chips, and beer-battered hake, as well as house specials that include pulled pork, grilled chicken and steak pockets, and build-yourown burgers. Live performances by popular musicians are a regular feauture, which adds to the convivial atmosphere. This is also the place to be if you

Village Explorer

15 April 2017 want to watch big screen rugby with your friends. Find them at 19 Long Street next to The Book Cottage. Call 082 358 9361.

Figgs Over at The Village, the Viking Kitchen has made way for Figgs, but the owners have not changed. David and Caz Flynn purchased the business in 2009 and turned it into a popular venue for locals named Feathers until 2015, when they leased the premises to the Viking Kitchen.

Now Caz is back in the hospitality business, having joined forces with private maths tutor Penny Childs. “Penny and I met right here at Feathers years ago,” says Caz. “We became friends and she often helped out at the restaurant.” Now they are a team and together they are busy reinventing the eatery, with not only a new name but also new décor and a new menu.

Several customers have remarked on how lovely it is to have Caz back and she also

admits that she missed Feathers. “Because this is a fresh start for me and a new challenge for Penny, we decided to change the name.

‘Figgs’ was inspired by the giant ficus tree providing shade on the outside veranda where customers enjoy whiling away at leisure.”

Caz and Penny want to provide a welcoming and relaxing environment where coffee, light meals and drinks are served and special occasions are celebrated. They are also looking forward to offering Bingo, Charades, Karaoke and Quiz evenings at least once a month.

Figgs is situated between The Classroom and Daniël Kok Galery at The Village. They are open Monday to Friday from 08:30 – 17:00 (kitchen closes) and serve drinks until 19:00.

On Saturdays they are open until 15:00; closed on Sundays.

Call 028 316 4081.

Two other restaurants that have been renamed are

Europa and the Old Harbour Café. At the Village Square’s waterfront piazza, Liezel and Jonathan Hellings have been the owners of Europa for over a year, but recently decided that since their restaurant now sports a new look and a new menu, they needed a new name as well – and they settled on The Wooden Barrel. The name reflects the wooden barrels at the restaurant’s entrance and the wooden furniture inside which was made from old wine barrels.

In Harbour Road, new owners Luca Visser and Jaco Vosloo who took over The Old Harbour Café at the beginning of the year, have renamed it Café 4 Twenty and recently hosted an opening party to christen and celebrate their new venture. Luca is also introducing live music to add to the relaxed laid-back vibe of this charming eatery, and says she wants to create a friendly and welcoming venue for locals to enjoy.

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25 April 2017 lifetime. Email workshop@grazecafe.co.za to book your place or call Tabby on 076 243 1930.

Friday 5 May ■ Ladies Lunch: Enjoy the show Full Bloom, with comedian Mary Steward and her alter ego Cornelia – a great idea for a Mother’s Day gift for your favourite lady. R200 pp includes the show, lunch and a glass of wine. At The Tasting Room at Stanford Hills, from 12:30 to 15:00.

Call 072 639 6135 to book.

Every Saturday ■ Saturday Morning Market: Lots of cakes, fudge, salads, goat and cow’s milk cheeses, fresh vegetables, Scotch eggs, plus pies, ciabattas and quiches straight from the oven. Erwin’s sausages and cold meats are on sale as well as pickles, jams, sauces, etc. Come and have a look. Stanford Hotel Stoep, from 09:00 – 12:00.

Every Wednesday

■ Graze Farmers Market: Reduce your carbon footprint and get your fresh, seasonal veggies at Graze Slow Food Café, from 09:00 – 12:00. Stay for coffee and breakfast. Call Tabby & Alex on 076 243 1930.

Saturday 13 May Saturday 29 April ■ Junktique Market: This market is growing in popularity as people discover hidden surprises.

From butter churns to old telephones, and kitchenalia to books, you never know what you may unearth at the Stanford Junktique! At the Stanford Tourism Courtyard, from 09:00 – 12:00.

For more information, contact 028 341 0340.

■ Panthera Africa Sunset Picnic: Sunset is a magical time of day at Panthera Africa which they love sharing with their four-legged friends. You are invited to join them for the first of their monthly sunset picnics, and if you’re lucky, you may even hear and see the lions roar! R750 pp includes an educational visit and a picnic basket to enjoy while the sun is setting and the cats come out to play after a long day’s rest. Remember to pre-book at least three days in advance to ensure your spot! Regrettably no persons under 16 allowed. At Panthera Africa, at 16:00. Book online http://activitybridge.com/book?activityid=6534.

throughout the years as well as a collection of new work from his much anticipated album Jy en Ek en Ek en Jy. His performance at this outdoor lawn venue forms part of his national tour and is cohosted by the Skills Exchange Co-operative. Local singer-songwriter Mags Heckl and children from Die Bron Primary School will be joining Chris on stage. Food and drinks will be available from The Tasting Room. Tickets are R120 pp (children U12 free) and gates open at 17:00. At The Tasting Room at Stanford Hills. Contact 072 639 6135.

■ Pizza and Jazz at La Trattoria: Join this Family Italian Restaurant on the last Saturday of the month for their pizza buffet and jazz music. At La Trattoria, from 18:30. To book, contact Lionello on 081 805 7470 or Corrado on 071 381 1010.

Sunday 30 April

Friday 19 May

Friday 28 April ■ Sunset Market: One of the few real country markets offering food, wine, beer, crafts, live music and fun for the whole family. As the sun sets over the village of Stanford on the last Friday of every month, the Village Green comes alive.

Local farmers peddle their wares while local cooks, crafters and artists offer their finest goods for sale. Food-to-go and wonderful goodies to stock up on for the weekend. At Market Square, from 18:00 – 20:00.

■ An evening with Chris Chameleon: Fans can look forward to a selection of the hits that have made Chris Chameleon a household name

■ Music Evening at Springfontein Barn: Join the beautiful Sprinfontein Wine Estate near Stanford for another evening of great music courtesy of the spectacular Stelth Ulvang. Jon Shaban will be opening the evening, followed by Stelth and his full band of incredible musicians. The cost is R450 pp and your ticket includes a glass of Springfontein wine on arrival along with a two-course traditional German meal. Book at www.quicket.co.za. At Springfontein Barn, from 18:00 – 22:30.

■ Mushroom Forage: As part of their Autumn Self-sufficiency Workshop from 26 – 30 April, Graze Slow Food Café in Stanford will be heading out to hunt down some interesting and edible wild mushrooms with The Mushroom Forager, Justin Williams. R700 pp includes a light breakfast and lunch at Graze and the knowledge to last a

■ Okkie Smuts Auction: Vintage posters, superb art, fine wine, lifestyle items and holiday breaks... that’s what you’ll find at the second annual Art, Wine and Lifestyle Auction in aid of Okkie Smuts School. All the lots will be shown on the Facebook event page and can also be viewed from 13:00 – 17:30 on the afternoon of the auction at the venue.

Only 150 tickets available, selling at R150 each.

Your ticket will include a welcoming glass of wine, cheese and delicious canapés. Tickets can be bought from the school and from Stanford Tourism.

At Stanford Valley Guest Farm, from 18:00. Contact Shirley on 028 341 0553 or Okkie Smuts School on 028 341 0611.

Three cheers for the Stanford River Festival!

The Stanford Canoe Club is most grateful for the generous donations that made the first Stanford River Festival from 7 – 9 April such a success. More than 150 paddlers turned up and cheerful shouts from the water and warm support from families and friends on the river bank made the day festive and excellent fun for everyone.

Our thanks to the Western Cape Canoe Union for logistics on the day and to the NSRI, who were present to keep an eye on the paddlers and offer back-up. Although the festival had kicked off under the threat of rain, spectators enjoyed a cool swim in the river as the day got hotter.

The Stanford Canoe Club Development Academy also participated in a fun 2 km demo-paddle in which 8 to 12-year-old Guppies practiced their newly acquired skills to warm support from the river bank. The Grootbos Foundation in partnership with the Stanford Canoe Club has been training local children on Wednesday

afternoons using donated canoes, paddles, lifejackets and volunteers, and the smiles on the participants’ faces showed the real value of this experience for these young locals.

The generosity of the Grootbos Foundation in supporting the Development Academy, providing funds, equipment, transport and coaches, has made a real difference in the lives of the children. Well done to the dedicated committee of the Stanford Canoe Club and all those who selflessly did the legwork for this great community event by building buoys, collecting prizes, being on call, designing and printing, marshalling, etc.

Congratulations to all the participants and thank you to everyone who donated prizes for the races and the raffle, which raised over R15 000 in aid of the Development Academy. The funds will be used to buy equipment and pay for transporting development children to regattas. The Stanford Canoe Club plans for the Stanford River Festival to become an annual event.

Village Explorer

15 April 2017

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Bridging the gap through conservation

fact of South African society is that communities were separated on the basis of colour and by socio-economic circumstances for 40 years. Even though there are no longer official barriers between different sections of society, it is still difficult to find ways to bridge the gap.

Such an opportunity has recently been created by Whale Coast Conservation (WCC) in the small village of Stanford. It started around the Mill Stream Improvement Project, funded by the Table Mountain Fund, and with support from the Overstrand Municipality.

The project is run by WCC’s education Manager, Sheraine van Wyk. The Mill Stream originates from a spring called ‘Die Oog’ (the Eye) on the hill above Stanford, which is still the main water supply of the village. Over the years the Mill Stream was dammed up and the dam and stream became dumping grounds for waste from the surrounding communities. However, ecologically valuable wetlands still remain in the area, and it was deemed worthwhile to

cleaning sections of the Mill Stream such as at the Eye and the Willem Appel Dam. Supported by the Botanical Society, the volunteers collected 64 bags of waste along the Mill Stream and along the way they learned about the wetlands.

assess the ecological health of the stream, the dam and the wetlands.

This goal was achieved through an environmental study, broad consultation with experts, municipal officials and the surrounding communities, and involving community volunteers that included local school children who learned from experts how to monitor frogs, dragonflies and birds as bioindicators – all under Sheraine’s guidance.

Where problems were identified, the Overstrand Municipality made resources available to address at least some of these problem areas.

Through a Grant-in-Aid, the Overstrand Municipality also funded holiday programmes for senior schools learners where they had the opportunity to connect with nature and adult role models.

Junior Town Councillor Jordan Linehan motivated friends to join a service project during their April school holidays to clean up litter along the Mill Stream. The group of volunteers spent two days

During Whale Coast conservation’s clean-up operation around sections of the Mill Stream, the young volunteers learned all about the ecological importance of wetlands.

The holiday programme aoofrded learners the opportunity to connect with nature and adult role models. After the clean-up, they were treated to a birding boat trip on the Klein River.

At the Willem Appel dam it was a different story – despite their best efforts, the industrious volunteers only managed to clean about a quarter of the distance around the dam. Thankfully they had the use of some canoes to get onto the dam to collect litter and 8 canoes full of floating algae.

Participants were rewarded for their efforts with a birding boat trip on the Klein River on the River Rat, sponsored by the Stanford Bird Club and Ernie Blommaert. They sighted many birds, including giant kingfisher, pied kingfisher, malachite kingfisher, a couple of jackal buzzards, purple heron, barn swallows and many others.

To end their time together, they enjoyed a special lunch at Ou Meul restaurant, sponsored by Botanical

Society member Barbara Kahn.

The participants in the service project were so enthusiastic about their achievements, the learning experience and camaraderie that they have decided to make this a regular event and perhaps even start a ‘Friends of the Mill Stream’ group.

However, the real value of this project is in creating an interface between youth and mature, responsible community members. The older volunteers became role models and the young people were able to share what they have experienced through the WCC eco camps, particularly the long-term impacts such as career and study choices. The adult participants were exposed to the hopes, ambitions and achievements of young people from different, sometimes extremely underprivileged, circumstances.

The project became the structure that bridged the gap – with the short-term benefit to the environment of clean ups as a bonus.

– Anina Lee, WCC

Kiwinet – elegant, stylish and functional Stanford is home to a uniquely South African product. Kiwinet has been growing from strength to strength, draping the bedrooms of local homes and the luxury boudoirs of guest houses, hotels and game lodges in South and East Africa, the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean Islands with their elegant yet functional mosquito nets.

From Out of Africa white that gently billows in the breeze to highly customised nets, dipdyed in shades and hues or beaded to complement every style of interior décor, the Kiwinet team is dedicated to

delivering bespoke nets that add class to any bedroom or daybed.

Robyn Lavender bought Kiwinet in 1998. The company had started as a small home industry business based on Boschheuwel Farm until it moved to Stanford in 2005.

Robyn finally secured their own premises on Daneel Street, which were opened to the public on 1 April 2015.

Kiwinet is a proud local manufacturer and exporter that employs a local team of women and men who are committed to meeting the

individual requirements of their valued and loyal clientele. They will go to any lengths to ensure that their customers’ needs are not only met, but surpassed.

Their mosquito nets range from Basic Nets for single beds to the Classic Range for private homes and the Traditional Range of lightweight timber frames that can be suspended over king-sized beds to create a four-poster feel that is magically light and airy. The off-cuts of the tulle are used to make children’s tutus so that no fabric goes to waste.

Robyn is always expending her product range, and is currently adding beautiful natural bed linen and accessories to the shop.

She is also dedicated to conservation and the environment, and plans to build on her range of Consol solar jars to include other sustainable items.

Open to the public Monday – Friday 08:00 – 17:00, Saturdays 10:00 – 14:00. Contact 028 341 0209 or info@kiwinet.co.za.

Visit www.kiwinet.co.za - Phil Murray

Robyn Lavender and her Kiwinet team.

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25 April 2017

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25 April 2017

It’s a buyer’s market, says Lightstone

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round this time every year, leading property data company Lightstone releases its forecast of what home prices can be expected to do in the next 12 months – and this year it is predicting sluggish growth of between 0,2% to 2,3% - compared to the 3,4% achieved in the past year – making it a pretty good time for home buyers, but not so great for sellers.

Paul-Roux de Kock, analytics director at Lightstone, says this prediction comes on the back of a very interesting 2016, in which there was a “significant divergence” between the house price inflation figures in the Western Cape (8,7%) and Gauteng (2,5%).

This was driven largely by sales in the City of Cape Town and could be closely linked to increased migration to the Western Cape – which is an important trend to factor into any forecast for the next 12 months, he says, as it suggests provincial house price estimates might differ substantially, not only by value band but also by province.

Meanwhile, he notes, trends in previous years show that luxury house prices tend to be a leading indicator, so that a slowdown in inflation in this sector will usually herald lower inflation at national level. Similarly, the low- and mid-value inflation indices tend to lag behind the national house price inflation index.

As a result, says De Kock, there is a strong indication that the national house price inflation trend will follow a downward trajectory in 2017. As to how much it will slow down, that will depend on many factors including inflation, economic growth and interest rates.

“The economic outlook for 2017 remains pretty bleak with estimated economic growth ranging between 0,6% and 1,2%. Consensus seems to be on inflation (CPI) settling at about 5,5% for the year, which should leave interest rates unchanged. However, as witnessed in the notso-distant past, none of these numbers are cast in stone. We therefore modelled three scenarios that resulted in our prediction that house price inflation would end 2017 between 0,2% and

2,3%, with 1,3% being the most likely number.”

But in a buyer’s market it is important to keep a cool head while searching for a property. It is worth remembering that at the current core home loan interest rate of 10,5%, spending an extra R50 000 on your home will not only add R500 a month to your bond repayment, but add about R120 000 to the total cost of the property over 20 years.

When you buy a home you are not just buying bricks and mortar or a roof over your head – you are also buying your future. It’s a big mistake to get hooked on a home you can’t afford.

Dreaming about how great your life would be if you could only have the designer kitchen, solid wood floors or great pool patio that a particular property offers can easily tempt you to go overbudget on your purchase.

Do not get desperate if you have been househunting for a while without finding anything you really like. If you aren’t careful, this could result in you deciding to “settle” for something you actually don’t like much – or even worse, being tempted to overlook serious problems that will be difficult and expensive to fix.

Buyers need to remember that doing nothing for a while is also an option. New homes come on to the market every day, so there is no need to get stuck with one you do not like.

Another common mistake that many buyers make, especially when looking at charming older homes, is over-estimating their DIY skills. You might love the idea of buying a fixer-upper in order to secure your place in a pricey area, but before you go ahead you need to be seriously realistic about how much home improvement you can handle in terms of time, money or ability.

■ According to the 2017 Knight Frank Global Residential Cities Index Cape Town, at number 92 out of 150 cities, saw property values grow by 3,9% last year, topping major cities that include Paris and New York. The index looks at the property markets of 150 cities to determine the average increase in property values over a 12-month period.

The No 1 factor when choosing a retirement village There’s a growing realisation among developers of the fact that people today are living healthy, active, involved lives well into their 80s and beyond, and in SA there’s currently something of a building boom in housing to meet the needs of senior citizens.

In Hermanus there are many retirement villages to choose from and at least two new retirement developments are on the cards, one in Church Street as you enter Hermanus and another at the Mariner’s Village Estate in Westcliff. It is expected that construction on these developments will start before the end of 2017.

However, there’s a big variety in what these new retirement villages offer and what they cost – and because people are set to live longer and will have to make their financial resources stretch further, those considering a retirement home purchase now need to choose very carefully.

While many of them may currently own their own homes outright, they need to remember that they will generally not have another chance to build that sort of equity, or accumulate their current level of savings, even if they continue to work full or part-time for many years.

Consequently, their primary consideration

should be to make provision for the fact that their health and mobility will naturally deteriorate at some stage – no matter how young and healthy they feel now. Many people in their 60s and 70s can also attest to the fact that life “accidents” such as heart attacks, strokes and even a bad fall can undo even the best-laid plans for an active retirement.

So what they should be looking for are those villages which enable and encourage residents to stay independent as long as they're able, but on the other hand also offer several levels of stepped-up health care as they need them.

In short, they must use the funds they have available for their retirement housing to buy the most secure of lifestyle they can afford.

Of course this does not mean that there is anything wrong with villages that offer snazzy fitness centres, pools, computer labs and tennis courts in addition to the more traditional dance classes and outings to the mall.

It does mean, however, that senior citizens who are “shopping” for a retirement home should not be blinded by such facilities into giving up on a guarantee that they will also have access to various levels of continuing health care as they age.

To advertise in The Village NEWS, contact Rina de Wet on

083 604 0808

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25 April 2017

Nutrition: a vital ingredient in pet health

ne of the easiest ways for pet owners to guard against costly vet’s bills is by ensuring their pets are fed the best quality food the owner can afford.

Superior nutrition is a safeguard against a host of diseases as it builds stronger immunity, protects against allergies and can even aid in the treatment of particular ailments. It helps a pet to recover more quickly from illness, accidents, and surgical procedures because the proper balance of vitamins and minerals enhances tissue repair and organ maintenance.

Common diseases such as skin conditions and allergies can be made worse, or even caused by, consistently feeding a diet with an incorrect balance of nutrients.

Cheap isn’t cheerful It’s tempting to believe supermarket brands offer better value for money but with pet foods you usually get exactly what you pay for.

My Pet Dr Hilldidge Beer

If it’s cheap, it almost certainly contains cheaper ingredients which may fill your pet’s tummy but are difficult to digest. Cheaper brands are also deficient in the necessary nutrients as few conduct clinical research into actual nutritional needs. Sufficient nutrients are essential for strong immunity and tissue repair.

With cheaper brands there is also the risk of poor quality control at factory level so you’re not entirely sure that what’s on the label is what’s going into your pet.

With premium diets, most of the food eaten is digested with less excreted from the body as waste so you clean up less stool later and your pet

absorbs more of the healthy nutrients Better foods may cost more per bag but the superior nutrition and better digestibility of these foods means you end up feeding less per day.

What’s ‘good food’?

For proper nutrition, the diet

must provide the proper balance of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The label will list all ingredients in descending order by weight. The protein source will probably be the first ingredient listed and is an important indicator as to the overall quality of the diet.

Higher-quality pet foods will have animal meat like chicken or turkey as the major protein source which your pet is better able to absorb than the plant proteins like soybeans found in cheaper quality food.

Higher-quality protein provides your pet with the nutrients it needs to carry out normal body functions and to produce a strong-boned, welltoned and muscled body, along with a healthy, shiny coat.

A good indicator of the quality of your pet’s diet is by checking its stool. On premium food your pet should have a low stool volume that is firm and dark,

and have a reduced odour. If stools are soft, loose, watery, light-coloured, or smelly, this can be an indication that you are feeding a lower quality diet that is not meeting your pet’s nutritional needs.

Seniors need special care As with humans, pets have different nutritional needs which premium quality foods cater for. Senior pets, for example, often suffer agerelated ailments like kidney disease or elevated cholesterol levels. Good quality foods aimed specifically at senior pets will take these ailments into account, helping your pet to live longer and more comfortably.

If you’d like more information on your pet’s nutritional needs visit our EberVet Vetshops at Station Mall or the IPIC Centre, Hermanus; Onrus or Caledon.

Hilldidge Beer is CEO of the EberVet Pet Care Group and EberVet Vetshops

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25 April 2017

A new heartbeat for Village Health

amish and Amanda Hofmeyr are an entrepreneurial couple who would not look out of place on a billboard advertising the benefits of healthy living.

Despite the usual stresses and strains of raising two young tots while starting up their own businesses, they are glowing with health, energy and enthusiasm.

always have our ears to the ground when it comes to new business opportunities,” she says.

My Health weeks later the deal was done.

Their latest venture is the landmark Village Health Shop in Main Road which is housed in an old heritage cottage previously owned by the Hamman family. With a history dating back to the early 1900s, the building was later divided into two premises and their current neighbour is Café 1904.

With a background in hospitality, the health shop is a new departure for Hamish and Amanda, but it coincided with a renewed interest in healthy living in their personal lives. “We are reaping the benefits from a change in lifestyle to cleaner, healthier and more responsible living,” says Hamish, “and we are enthusiastic about sharing that with our customers.”

Village Health is the oldest health shop in Hermanus and has been in the same spot for many decades. The previous owner had the shop for 15 years and when the Hofmeyrs saw that it was for sale, they decided to investigate – and three

Hamish started as assistant manager at The Marine in 2008 and in less than two years he was appointed resident general manager, a position he held until the end of February last year, when he left to start up a new

HEALTHY LIVING Amanda and Hamish Hofmeyr are embarking on a new venture as the owners of The Village Health Shop. restaurant and tasting room for Idiom Wines in Somerset West. Having gained valuable experience over a period of nine months, Hamish then launched his new

hospitality consultancy, Hospitality Enhancement Services.

Amanda, who had worked alongside Hamish at The Marine as food and beverage

manager, went on to a managing position at Dutchies on Grotto Beach before deciding to turn her personal health quest into a new career. “Our house is full of dream boards and we

The couple has big plans for the Village Health shop, which will include a new image, renovations to the premises, and a new range of health products. They currently have a 50% off sale on all clothing and once the stock has been cleared they will focus purely on health, with fresh organic food and veg, Super Foods products, natural food oils, supplements, aromatherapy and carrier oils, women’s beauty and skin care products, organic kiddies’ products, natural household cleaning products, and even organic pet products. They will also carry real health shoe brands such as Green Cross, FitFlop and Crocs.

You will find the Village Health Shop at 82 Main Road, Hermanus. Call 028 312 1308.

– Hedda Mittner

25 April 2017

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Forest Theatre comes alive with the sound of music

The Blues meets Rock concert held at the Forest Theatre over the Easter weekend had fans on their feet, while the forest swayed and vibrated to the rocking sounds of truly South African, world-class performances by the likes of Boulevard Blues, Doc John and Jesse Jordan. An estimated 250 die-hard fans attended the event, which was brought to the Forest Theatre by Janet Marshall and Pieter van Aswegen of Stargazer Promotions. The duo is well known to listeners as the co-hosts of Home Brew and other music programmes on Whale Coast 96 fm.

They hosted the concert in conjunction with the Overstrand Training Institute (OTI) as a new partnership to develop this pristine forest venue, while providing practical training to students of OTI in event management and hospitality. Stargazer Promotions is an allinclusive event management company, with several events in the planning stages. They can be contacted on 082 456 8091 or 083 457 8235, or email stargazer4promotions@gmail.com

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21 NEWS NEWS Old Harbour joins Sculpture on the Cliffs Exhibition 25 April 2017

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he Old Harbour was the scene of some unusual activity on Friday as the first of the artworks that will form part of the Sculpture on the Cliffs Exhibition for Hermanus FynArts 2017 was installed.

This is the first time that the Old Harbour heritage site, by kind permission of the Old Harbour Trust, will be used for the exhibition, which in previous years saw the large sculptures installed at Gearing’s Point. This year’s group exhibition will comprise eleven sculptures, three of which will be placed at the Old Harbour and eight along the cliffs of Gearing’s Point.

The first one, which in the end took two days to install, is Richard Forbes’ Sonar Sound – a huge, circular, mild steel piece which resonates a gentle chime as a call to the whales and a hail to the fishermen to come home safely. The sculpture pays

“First they built the base, then they welded the two halves together, but in order to do this the dish had to be upside down. Turning it over proved impossible because of its immense weight, even with ten people attempting to lift and flip it.”

diameter and weighs 500 kg.

And that is only the big disc, not the smaller one and the base that supports the whole.

Additional assistance was required and on Friday evening Lien Botha, curator of the exhibition, called on Kleinmond welder Geoffrey Visser, who joined the team on Saturday morning to complete the installation.

“Rings were welded around the edges to which the strongest climbing rope was tied for the workers to grip with gloves and yank the disc upright before flipping it over with an almighty crash,” says Mary.

“It was a rather challenging installation,” says FynArts Festival Director Mary Faure.

“Then they dragged the hollow disc to the base and that’s where the most

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner Sonar Sound by Richard Forbes is the first piece of the Sculpture on the Cliffs Exhibition to be installed at the Old Harbour, where it will be left to erode over time. homage to the history of the Old Harbour, which over 100 years ago was the hub of the local fishing industry that supported most of the village’s inhabitants.

The disc was transported by

Richard in a trailer from Johannesburg and arrived in two halves that had to be carried down to the harbour from the parking area and then welded together. This was no easy task, as in total the disc is 3 metres in

precision was needed – to angle the disc, drag it closer to the base and place a hole, probably not much larger than 5 cm in diameter, over the holding pin!

This took some time, strength and coordination.”

Finally, by Saturday afternoon, the sculpture was securely installed. Although the disc now lies horizontally on the base and not vertical as originally intended, Mary says it should still chime when the wind blows as a small amount of oscillation is possible.

“The rusty colour of the steel echoes the earthy tones of the rocks, while the circular shape reflects the circumference of the bay,” says Mary. “With time, the corrosion from the salt will erode the mild steel and slowly take this large, man-made sculpture away, reminding us that all is impermanent.”

- Hedda Mittner

25 April 2017 Event

Day

Saturday, 29 April

Distance

Monday, 1 May

Any day –weather dependent

Discipline

Start Time

Venue

Cliffpath Xtreme

5.7km

Run

09:00

Race Village

Cliffpath Xtreme

12.6km

Run

09:00

Race Village

Cliffpath Xtreme

18.1km

Run

09:00

Race Village

5km

Fun Run

09:00

HI-TEC Tent

X-Fit

11:00

Race Village

Hi-Tec Xtreme Fun Walk Tough Mother Xtreme X-Fit Challenge

Sunday, 30 April

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Urban Xtreme MTB Criterium

800m circuit MTB / Urban Circuit

15:00

Race Village

Walkerbay Xtreme Triathlon

600m swim, 20km cycle, 5km run

08:00

Race Village

Urban Xtreme MTB Criterium (FINALS)

800m circuit MTB / Urban Circuit

15:30

Race Village

tbc

Race Village

OWS

11:30

New Harbour

Triathlon

Tough Mother Xtreme (FINALS) Open Water Xtreme Blue Water Xtreme

200m

SUP (Family)

13:30

Old Harbour

Blue Water Xtreme

6km

SUP

13:30

Old Harbour

Blue Mountain Xtreme

17km

Trial Run

08:00

Race Village

Strongman Xtreme

Strongman

11:00

Race Village

Sea & Sand Xtreme

Swim-Run-Jump

12:30

Old Harbour

Seagull Xtreme Paragliding Challenge

Xtreme: A Supporters’ Guide

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thletes from across the country will gather in Hermanus to participate in the second HI-TEC Walkerbay Xtreme – a three day sports festival comprising multiple adrenaline-filled events.

Among the highlighs are:

Paragliding

HI-TEC XTREME PIRATE FUN WALK Be sure to join the 5 km Pirate Walk with your brood on Saturday 29 April at 09:00.

Meet at the HI-TEC tent and receive your treasure map with your first clue to learn about the importance of nature and conservation with real pirates, while having tons of fun with mom and dad. At the end of the walk at the HI-TEC tent, you will need to walk the plank to receive your HI-TEC Goodie Bag. There will be lots of treats ready and waiting.

CLIFFPATH XTREME Whether you’re a novice or seasoned runner, our 5,7 km, 12,6 km and 18,1 km distances will test your endurance in every way. Run along Hermanus’ rugged coast-

line among the fynbos, dassies and enthusiastic spectators. This world-famous Cliff Path promises extraordinary scenery and sweeping vistas.

URBAN XTREME CYCLING Get your adrenaline pumping in this 800 m MTB Criterium Circuit Race, which combines a short track race with technical obstacles and urban flavour. The event features a number of elimination rounds on Saturday, culminating in an exciting finale on Sunday. The circuit is specifically designed to be spectator-friendly, incorporating the restaurant strip along the iconic Hermanus Old Harbour.

SEA & SAND XTREME The Sea & Sand Xtreme is not for the faint-hearted. This thrilling adventure comprises a 400 m swim, 1,5 km run, Dreunkrans Cliff Jump, 400 m swim, 1 km run, and finishes off with a final 500 m swim.

This will put your greatest fears to the test, and you can consider yourself the ultimate WBX Warrior when you conquer the Dreunkrans cliff jump.

OPEN WATER XTREME Brave the Atlantic Ocean in this 2,5 km swim from the New Harbour to the historic Old Harbour, as the panoramic Cliff Path offers a perfect bird’s eye view to family, friends and fans. This is a must-do event for long-distance open water enthusiasts!

BLUE MOUNTAIN XTREME This trail equivalent of a marathon promises sweeping vistas of the Hermanus area, as athletes tackle the expanded trail routes along the Klein Rivier Mountains before finishing on the beach front.

Only fit and experienced trail runners need apply.

XTREME CHEERING Make your way to the Cliff Path that stretches along the Hermanus coastline, and cheer on your loved ones – or random strangers, as one does during a race. The Cliff Path will also give you the perfect bird’s eye view as swimmers tackle their open water swim from the New to the Old Harbour on Sunday.

For more details or late entries, visit www.walkebayxtreme.com

GOOD

NEWS NEWS Two SA teams to be axed from Super Rugby In 2018

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he governing body of Super Rugby, SANZAR, announced that the 2018 Super Rugby competition would kick off with a three conference, 15 team format.

The 15 teams would comprise 5 from New Zealand, 4 from South Africa, 4 from Australia and 1 each from Argentina and Japan. The decision to reduce the competition by 3 teams, from the current 18, was unanimously agreed by the four SANZAR partners, New Zealand, South Africa, Australia and Argentina.

"The fans, media and broadcasters have spoken and we have listened to them,” said Jurie Roux, CEO of SA Rugby.

The retention of the Jaguares from Argentina and the Sunwolves from Japan is part of a broader 10-year plan.

Argentina, now a full SANZAR partner, has added value to both the Rugby Championships and the Super Rugby Competition. The Sunwolves have been retained to grow the game on the Asian continent and Japan will be the hosts of the next World Cup in 2019.

Roux admitted that a reduction in SA teams was a bitter pill to swallow, but retaining six teams would have put SA Rugby at

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25 April 2017

All welcome at fly fishing open day The Hermanus Fly Fishing Club has an open day scheduled for Sunday 30 April.

The club invites both members and non-members to bring their families and enjoy this fun-filled day at Zuiderkruis Dam.

My Sport

The dam is situated in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley on the R320 to Caledon, about 15 km from The Village. Signs on the right hand side will guide you down to the dam.

By Tony O’Hagan even greater risk in terms of financial sustainability and the resources could no longer support six teams at the required level.

Roux said that the large number of South Africans playing overseas had hastened the decision.

Supporting four franchises instead of six would allow more financial resources to contract better players in the retained franchises. SA Rugby acknowledged that the exodus of players had impeded the competitiveness of our Springbok rugby team.

As a matter of interest, in 2016 there were 331 SA players plying their trade abroad,

Jurie Roux, CEO of SA Rugby including 65 Springboks.

There are 8 Van der Merwes, 7 Du Preezs and 6 Du Plessis’ alone!

So, what criteria will be used to decide the fate of the SA franchises? This criteria will have to be clearly defined.

Performance and financial sustainability are the buzz words currently being bandied about. Over what passed period of time will this criteria be applied?

Performance and financial sustainability go hand in hand – the better the performance, the greater the fan base, with resultant financial upside.

On the face of it, the two most vulnerable teams from a

South African perspective are the Cheetahs and the Southern Kings. The latter was formed as a nursery for transformation in the sport, while the Cheetahs (in particular, Grey College) have provided a conveyer belt in producing many of our modern-day Springboks. Will there be compensation for the axed franchises? What of the contracted players in these franchises?

Big decisions lie ahead for SA Rugby. Quo vadis SA Rugby?

Will these decisions improve the future prospects of our Super Rugby teams and our national team, the Springboks?

The future months will be of interest to rugby followers!

The open day has proved a real highlight and there is no charge for those wishing to relax and enjoy the dam and its beautiful surrounds.

Bring some chairs and a cooler box with food and beverages and watch the

fishermen plying their passion.

The day starts at 08:00 and continues until 12 noon, followed by a braai (with wood provided). After the morning's activities there will be a prize giving, with last year's winners ready to defend their trophies.

Last year's winners were: Ethan Page (Junior), Kerry Tindall (Lady), Roland Oelofse (Visitor) and Tim Tindall (Club Champion).

Both children and adults can make use of the opportunity to receive free lessons from club members in attendance.

The trout are caught and released and it promises to be a wonderful experience for both participants and spectators.

25 April 2017

NEWS NEWS

GOOD

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Schools Hermies players show their skill

SHOOT THE HOOP Two netball teams from Curro Hermanus participated in a sports day in Belville on 22 April in which 24 schools took part. The U15 A and the U19 teams took part, with the U19s winning 3 of their 5 matches. ABOVE: The U15 team (from left) Nikhita van der Westhuizen, Camlynn Timmie, Melissa Jordaan, coach N Herbst, Chevonne Botes, Kerin Helmbold, Lara Arrison, Stella Bakker, and Caylin Lehman in front. BELOW: The U19 team (from left) Kirra Jardine, Kaci van Romburgh, Micheala Botha, coach M Lemmer, Zanmari Craffort, Zama Kamana, Nadia van der Westhuizen, with Chanel Momberg and Milla Botha in front.

WINNING STREAK The 23 U19 rugby players form High School Hermanus who recently took part in the 38th annual Oakdale Tournament in Riversdale returned home triumphantly after they won all three of their matches. Under the guidance of coach Graham Bellingan and assistant coach Jacques Mangiagalli, the boys won their matches against Hoërskool Sentraal from Bloemfontein 31 – 7, Hoërskool Brandwag from Uitenhage 24 – 15 and Hoërskool Upington 31 – 29. Team captain and flanker Michael-John Otto was selected to play for the Oakdale invitational team.

PHOTOS: Thinus Maritz