The Village NEWS 28 March 2017

Village

NEWS NEWS The

28 March 2017

Cape Whale Coast

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FERNKLOOF Turns 60

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PAGE 12 Pre-school children from Hermanus cheer on the participants during Stage 1 of the Absa Cape Epic as they ride through the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

PHOTO: Dominic Barnardt/Cape Epic/SPORTZPICS

An epic win for the Cape Whale Coast De Waal Steyn

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he Cape Whale Coast has been one of the biggest winners of this year’s Absa Cape Epic. With thousands of visitors, international television coverage equaling that of the Tour de France and millions of views on social media, the area received immeasurable exposure.

Tourism Manager Frieda Lloyd

says both accommodation establishments and restaurants did brisk trade.

“A week before the Epic there was still accommodation available, but this changed quickly and on the Monday before the start there was a scramble to find accommodation for visitors.”

“The spirit of residents, especially the school children, who came out to watch and support the riders was electrifying. The Waldorf

School marimba band at Newton Johnson, the striking art installation depicting a cyclist on the dam at Creation and the thousands of people cheering them on delighted the riders.”

Frieda says that although the region is already well known as a mountain biking destination, the kilometers of new trails that were developed will act as an additional draw card.

“Research has shown that a

large number of first-time visitors to the Whale Coast due to an event return for a holiday.”

Local riders Mathew Browne and Claude Tyers completed the gruelling stage race on Sunday in an accumulated time of just over 42 hours. The pair, competing under the banner of Hermanus High School, was awarded the mayoral trophy for best Overberg team for the Hermanus stage of the race.

“We are elated to have won the mayoral trophy and to have completed the race,” says Mathew, owner of the Pro Active Gymnasium. With an accumulated time of 42:01.55,6 he and Tyers finished 91st in the Masters category and 285th overall.

They completed the race 15 hours and 26 minutes after the winners, Nino Schurter and Matthias Stirnemann.

Mathew says the conditions, especially during the first few

days of the race, were very trying. “This was my 7th Epic, but I have never before experienced a stage being shortened, as occurred on Stage 2 of the race this year.

This stage, due to end in Greyton, was shortened by 40 km, ending in Caledon.

“This was due to the intense heat and humidity, resulting in the withdrawal of a number of riders.”

Continued on P 3

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Busy times ahead bodes well for local economy With Epic fever behind us, the busy season for the Cape Whale Coast is not yet at an end. Soon our towns will once again be bursting at the seams with Easter holiday makers and two weeks after that another long weekend awaits, during which Hermanus will host the Walkerbay Xtreme.

The economic injection of events such as the Epic and the Walkerbay Xtreme, especially during times of the year that have not traditionally been busy, cannot be underestimated.

Combined with the ever increasing popularity of

Editorial Comment

By De Waal Steyn Hermanus FynArts during June, the region is losing its traditional rhythm of busy summers and quiet winters.

The positive impact of this can be seen in the economic growth of our towns and the number of people moving to Hermanus, bringing with them new businesses and business skills. The downside,

however, cannot be ignored.

Economic prosperity draws unskilled workers in desperate need of jobs, leading to not only a high unemployment rate but also an increase in crime. The latest crime statistics for the area shows an increase in many crimes.

To counteract this, several programmes have been started to assist in creating employment and skills development. These initiatives can only be successful if we as a community wholeheartedly support it. The Whale Coast has shown itself to be a region with a big heart – a place

Letters and opinions Eviction of Market Stall traders a tragedy More than 20 years after the Apartheid government was replaced by a democratically elected government, the Last Bastion remains in the small conclave called Hermanus (Concourt finds stall traders must move, The Village NEWS, 14 March 2017).

The National Party run town cloaked under the guise of the Democratic Alliance has sent us back to the past. White supremacy reigns supreme and is alive and well. Once again the down trodden get the short end of the stick.

The majority of the market traders are non-white and had worked themselves up from nothing, trading on vacant lots with minimal amounts of stock.

But they stood fast and were encouraged by the everincreasing number of overseas tourists coming to Hermanus and supporting them.

Twenty years of hard graft trying to live the South African Dream. Working through both

good and bad times, seven days a week, finally getting decent accommodation to trade – and guess what? They now have nothing.

Cast out onto the street after establishing a tourist draw card over many years of hard work. They will be replaced by white middle to upper class businesses, some of whom already have other businesses in town, purporting to be selling "locally sourced goods" and transforming the market to a "more appropriate" venue for locals and tourists, thus putting an end to "The Flea Market".

I see also booking offices for local tourism service providers who are hardly battling to make a living. Other stalls remained empty this long weekend – how ironic.

Shame on you and shame on me for allowing this tragedy to take place.

St John

where residents become involved to help their fellow humans. For that, everyone who is involved needs to be lauded, and to those who are not yet involved, may this serve as a wake-up call and an invitation. Read more about our caring society on P4 and P5.

It is not only our residents that we take care of. Read more about the 60th anniversary of Fernkloof and the plans to better market this popular tourist destination on P 7.

This is the GOOD NEWS – Ed

Send your letter to news@thehermanusnews.co.za Follow us on

More letters on P 4

Night Shelter Association seeks assistance “We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty” – Mother Theresa A small group of local and committed residents are hard at work raising awareness and funds, and organising the logistics of opening a night shelter for the homeless in Hermanus. To date land has been identified and purchased, building plans drawn up and a total of

R603 000 raised towards a target of R2,1 million for the full project.

Members of this group are all volunteers and just don’t have the capacity or time to give a professional thrust to raising the remainder of the funds required. The group is appealing to any local residents who have experience in this field as they urgently need someone to take on the portfolio of Fundraising & Marketing for the project. If you are available to make a long-term

commitment to this community initiative please contact Ray Hartmann on 083 731 0678 or nightshelterhermanus@ gmail.com and come on board as we turn this vision into a reality.

You can also visit the Hermanus Night Shelter Association’s office at the Grobbelaar Hall on Marine Drive or visit their website, www.hermanusshelter.co.za Hermanus Night Shelter Association

Stop mutilating library books Who are these self-righteous, arrogant people who persist in defacing our library books by crossing out, or blotting out, every mention of the names of their gods?

Have they no respect – for books, for public property, for other peoples’ rights of enjoyment or points of view?

Does their religion not teach them this respect?

If these defacers are so offended by such usage in public books, let them simply close the relevant book and return it to the shelf. Do they have to damage it? Their arrogance is stupefying, selfish and small-minded.

The librarians are understandably helpless to trace the culprits of these mutilations, much as it

angers them as well.

Will the people concerned, I wonder, even read this letter? If you have, and are guilty, please desist with this behaviour. It is not going to attract anyone to your cause – in fact you are probably turning people away.

Concerned member of our excellent Hermanus Public Library

Overstrand Hospice thanks community Once again our heartfelt thanks to all our donors who continue to bless Hospice with their generous donations.

band of volunteers, without whom we could not achieve our vision for free palliative care in the Overstrand municipality.

A big shout-out to the loyal

“You matter because you are

you. You matter to the last moment of your life and we will do all we can, not only to die peacefully, but to live until you die.”

Dame Cicely Saunders

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Local Epic riders do us proud From P 1 Other local riders who completed the race include Braam Gericke and Jacques Wentzel, from Wildekrans Wine Estate and Black Elephant Vintners respectively, in an accumulated time of 40:49.13,8.

This placed them 125th in the men’s category and 253rd overall.

Another local pairing – Anel Henn and Francois Mostert (Team Hennmoss) – completed the stage race in an accumulated time of 44:25.16. This placed them 339th overall and 28th in the Mixed Category.

The final stage took riders from Oak Valley in Grabouw to Val de Vie in Paarl on Sunday. Only 501 of the original 670 teams completed the event.

Frieda says the Epic was an event that everyone looked forward to.

“From our local cyclists to residents helping to prepare the trails and businesses participating in the spirit of the race, this was an event that the Cape Whale Coast can be proud of, with everything working out to our advantage.

“Despite the unexpected heat and shortening of the route on the second day, we provided a spectacular background to this prestigious event. Hermanus and Stanford were both in the spotlight with spectator points in these two towns. It was incredible to see how well Hermanus High School worked as a stage location and a minivillage was set up overnight with all the amenities to cater for 1 300 adventure athletes. We are proud of our association with the event and hope to welcome the Cape Epic back next year,” says Frieda.

WHAT A DAM SIGHT: Acclaimed land artist Strijdom van der Merwe was commissioned to create a special Epic installation, featuring as a landmark on the dam of the Creation Wine Estate. The installation is entitled ‘Create Your Own Path’. The estate served as a water and spectator point during Stage 2 of the Cape Epic.

PHOTO: Nick Muzik/Cape Epic/SPORTZPICS

SEA YOU LATER The leading ladies leave Hermanus during Stage 2, which was shortened from 102 km to 62 km due to high temperatures.

PHOTO: Greg Beadle/CapeEpic/SPORTZPICS

How to obtain rates clearance certificates hassle-free Buying and selling real estate entails much paper work and most important is obtaining a rates clearance certificate, as a seller cannot sell a property legally without one.

Applications for rates clearance certificates are handled by a conveyancer and not the seller. The Municipality will only issue a clearance certificate once it has received a completed application form, together with all required documentation, from the conveyancer. However, the seller remains responsible for paying all costs incurred in this regard, as well as for any outstanding amounts owed. The cost for manual applications via e-mail or fax for rates clearance and valuation certificates amounts to R451. The cost for electronic applications via Korbitec or L@W amounts to R144.

On the sale of a property, the transfer will be delayed without a clearance certificate and until such time as all rates, service and sundry charges and any estimated amounts are settled. The validity period of a rates clearance certificate is 90 days and the amount due for payment will include 4 months’ advance collections plus all current outstanding debt on the property.

Sellers and buyers must ensure that connection/disconnection forms are completed for properties equipped with water/electricity meters. These forms are available on www.overstrand.gov.za. Click on Documents, click on Forms, click on Revenue Application Forms. For queries call 028 313 8000 and ask for the Rates and Data Control Office or email enquiries@overstrand.gov.za.

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The strange but true origins of April Fools’ Day

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ver the centuries there has been a great deal of debate over the origin of April Fools’ Day. One thing is for certain though – its roots reach deep beneath the murky undergrowth of mythology, going back much further than conventional wisdom would have us believe.

Some historians maintain it came about when Julius Caesar’s old calendar was replaced by a bloke called Gregory in 1582. Until then, the New Year began after their spring equinox in late March, heralding the swing towards summer. However, Easter was also a holy week, so they respectfully waited a few days after the mourning period before they all got vrot on 1 April.

“Screw Jules!” bellowed Greg in his best Latin. He’d just had a light-bulb moment while

Wit’s End

pretty festive around then anyway so we can start earlier!”

Fellow bingo players back in the Senate endorsed the concept. Sadly, the shuffling scum out in the rural backwaters of the Empire had no clue of the change, and soon became targets for ghastly tomfoolery by the switched-on city slickers.

jogging home with a few cardinals after a bingo marathon in the Colosseum.

Another theory blames Constantine. In those days, a court jester was a valuable ally to an Emperor or King. They were often his eyes and ears on the ground, and relayed the sentiments of the riff-raff to the boss as light-heartedly as possible to avoid being killed.

“Let’s make another calendar and have New Year after Christmas instead,” he yelled to his entourage. “Everyone’s

One such chap was Kugel, who jokingly told Constantine that he would make a better ruler. Tickled by his audacity,

Murray Stewart

Letters and opinions

Constantine made him top dog for a day. The jester immediately passed an edict calling for one day of absurdity each year. It was 1 April.

But these fables are found in any internet search, so delving deeper into the real history behind this international day of delinquency, I consulted my trusted The Duck ’n Fiddler’s Explanation of Everything, which, I might remind you, is an accumulation of ancient facts compiled by King Arthur and signed by his brother Bob. Apparently – long ago, before they invented things – a fellow called Aprilla the Hung was involved. Now apart from being the lead singer in the wildly popular R&B band The Hungsters, he was dashingly handsome, like a younger, taller Tom Cruise. Being on tour most of the time, the

band gigged at all the major venues in Asia Minor, and their fan base was huge. But the ladies just loved Aprilla, and being an obliging chap he made himself available whenever necessary.

While on tour, The Hungsters had a string of successes back then with hits like Rivers of Babylon, Stairway to Yemen, Walk like an Egyptian, and much later Do you know the way to San José?

Anyway, after socialising extensively in the Middle East for a few decades, the fruit he bore was understandably multiple and diverse. Hell, nearly everybody in the region was an Aprilla offspring, so the likelihood of unknowingly making out with your brother or cousin was common. A few wellconnected families though, had remained unsullied, and

they distanced themselves from these illegitimate kids, who foolishly thought they’d all cash in when ‘The Hung’ was finally laid to rest.

The hoity-toity set called them Aprilla’s Bastards or Aprilla’s Fools and dedicated a month after them – May – the first day of which you could poke fun at, or generally ridicule them till lunch. After realising their mistake, they created another month called April. It made more sense.

However it started though, and whatever it has developed into, a few rules remain sacrosanct until today. Firstly, noon is the cut-off time. After that, you’re the fool. Secondly, no hissy-fits or grumpiness if you are busted.

It just makes it funnier for the oke busting you. And thirdly, you are not allowed to kill anyone – even if you don’t like them.

Send your letter to news@thehermanusnews.co.za Follow us on

Sparkling matriculant needs a helping hand Many of your readers are probably familiar with Sparklekids, a local organisation that financially supports ‘kids’ with ‘sparkle’. In other words disadvantaged young people with drive and ambition are helped to get from a place of disadvantage to a position of self-support through education in the shortest time possible.

ambition. Nyasha Bokko is a young woman with a mission – to help avert our looming water crisis.

She is a dedicated, bright student at Qhayiya Secondary School. A school trip to a waste water management unit two years ago ignited the flame of her ambition, which is to secure safe and sufficient water for the current and future needs of the country.

In six years of existence Sparklekids has helped more than 50 young people, mostly from Qhayiya Secondary School in Zwelihle, to pass Grade 12 and go on to tertiary education.

The recent report on Sparklekids and their activities in the Village NEWS (Helping our kids sparkle, 17 January 2017) inspired me to get involved.

I am now working with one kid with lots of sparkle, and she needs some help to achieve her

Her early years were spent in a small village in Zimbabwe where she had first-hand experience of the havoc wreaked on all forms of life by water shortages and polluted water.

Nineteen-year-old Qhayiya matric learner Nyasha Bokko with Anna Marie Shutte.

She is determined to obtain a degree in water engineering so that she can play a role in ensuring that our water supplies are managed wisely

and efficiently. She wants to contribute positively to our environment and community and she needs help to achieve this laudable ambition.

Nyasha has been living in Zwelihle with her family for six years and they speak only Xhosa at home. She has attended Qhayiya since Grade 8 and is currently preparing for her matric exams later this year.

Her subjects include Maths, Life Sciences and Physical Sciences, in preparation for an engineer-ing degree in water management – but there are two intertwined obstacles in her way: she lacks funding for a university degree and her Zimbabwean nationality disqualifies her for the majority of loans, bursaries or scholarships that are open to South African students.

Praise for initiative to preserve Cape Vultures Last month saw the inauguration of the new Vulture viewing platform at Potberg in CapeNature's De Hoop Nature Reserve.

A fortuitous meeting in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve in December 2016 between Adrian Fortuin, Conservation Manager at the De Hoop Nature Reserve and bird enthusiasts Daphne Hutton and Arne and Mariette Pitlo led to an invitation being extended to the Hermanus Bird Club to arrange for a group of members to become the first visitors to inaugurate the new Cape Vulture viewing platform in Potberg.

Craig Holmes, Chairman of the

Hermanus Bird Club responded to Adrians's invitation by getting together a group of 28 Hermanus Bird Club members who recently made the journey to this exclusive natural tourist attraction in the Overberg.

The Potberg is the last remaining breeding colony of the Cape Vulture in the Western Cape. It is the most threatened bird species in the De Hoop Nature Reserve – at present there are approximately 240 birds in the colony and 120 breeding pairs. The birds nest and breed in the cliffs and lay only one egg per year.

It is possible to overcome both these obstacles.

Obtaining a permanent resident’s permit will potentially lead to several funding options. She has no desire to return to Zimbabwe, and is currently in the process of applying for a residence permit.

The knowledge and skills that this determined young woman will no doubt acquire will directly benefit South Africa’s environment.

Some help from you - the generous community-minded and environmentally aware inhabitants of the Overstrand - in either financial or practical ways will assist Nyasha in moving closer to her goal.

This is an appeal to you to contribute towards funding her study or to help her by providing information about

occasional food shortages.

This is truly a success story for the vultures, and a tourism attraction linked to the De Hoop Reserve and the Whale Trail.

Arne Pitlo

Any financial contribution, either a once-off amount or a monthly contribution of your own choosing, would be extremely welcome and most gratefully received by both Sparklekids and Nyasha Bokko.

You may send your contributions to the following account: Sparklekids NPC First National Bank Branch no. 200-412 Account no. 62431987794 Thank you very much. All contributors will regularly be updated on Nyasha’s progress.

For any further information, I can be reached on 072 176 4734.

Anna Marie Shutte

Hermanus Dry Cleaners temporarily closed after fire Hermanus Dry Cleaners regrets to inform its customers of a devastating fire on 16 March which destroyed all its machines and most laundry items on its premises in Mitchell Street.

Thanks to the positive attitude of farmers in the surrounding Overberg, the bird population of the colony is steadily increasing.

Threats to their survival include power line collisions, agro-chemicals and

individuals or organisations that would see the value in opening doors for her.

Affected customers are requested to forward their collection slip number with a contact telephone number by email to hermanusdrycleaners@gmail. com to obtain a status report.

Alternatively, a note with the collection slip number, name and legible telephone

number may be left in the container provided at Swisstech (next door to the Hermanus Dry Cleaners) during office hours.

Pending reconstruction of Hermanus Dry Cleaners, arrangements have been made with Hermanus Laundry Corporation at 5 Paterson Street, to attend to customers’ laundry requirements.

For laundry services please contact Sandra Carstens on 071 397 8772.

Leon Weakley Hermanus Dry Cleaners

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CAMPHILL COMMUNITY HERMANUS

Living, learning and working together

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he scent of rosemary and basil is heady in the herb workshop as a dozen adults sit stripping the stalks from the freshly picked leaves, before they are dried and processed into herbal teas or soothing lavender eye pillows.

Outside, others tend to the many rows of organic herbs, as well as a thriving chilli plantation. It is a peaceful and productive environment, with everyone engaged in a useful task.

One resident used to be very depressed and angry, but since he was given the responsibility for a certain section of the herb garden, he has blossomed, becoming much happier as his quality of life has improved.

“At Camphill, we believe in empathy, not sympathy… doing with and not doing for.

We want to empower our residents. We try to make them as self-sufficient as possible,” says Elma Young, one of the long-standing house leaders at Camphill Community Hermanus. “Not all of our residents can function in the outside world, which is not geared to people who are different.”

Camphill executive manager Sam Hodson concurs: “At Camphill we don’t ‘care’ for the residents. Rather, we support them to care for themselves as much as they can. Our residents are encouraged to live as full and normal a life as possible, including working a normal day, Monday to Friday, from 8am to 5pm with a break for lunch and a rest.”

A community Creating a safe and fulfilling space for intellectually disabled adults is the primary aim of Camphill Farm Community which was established in 1978 to provide quality accommodation, meaningful work opportunities and therapy for them. It is part of a global Camphill Movement, of about 120 communities worldwide.

Camphill School Hermanus,

The Hermanus Camphill Farm Community in Hemel-en-Aarde Valley not only provides a safe and productive environment for adults with intellectual disabilities, but also serves as an example of eco-friendly and sustainable living, as SARAH TAYLOR discovered during a recent visit. established in 1952, still exists adjacent to the adult community, but runs as a completely separate entity.

The 126-hectare Camphill estate currently accommodates 54 residents, between the ages of 20 and 70, as well as some of the approximately 30 community staff and volunteers.

With the recent opening of its seventh house (Raphael House), Camphill will now be able to accommodate up to 63 intellectually disabled adults.

There is a strong sense of community at Camphill.

Residents receive three wholesome meals a day at their houses and help wash up after meals. Some also assist with the preparation of meals.

Therapeutic activities provided for the residents include Biodanza, music, yoga, dance, eurythmy and physiotherapy.

various therapeutic activities are covered by donations and sponsorships, fundraising and government grants.

DAIRY HERD Cow Catherine with her 6-day-old calf.

HERB WORKSHOP Residents engaged in stripping leaves.

Camphill, which is registered as a non-profit organisation, is an active community as well, currently producing various farm produce, as well as craft products. Residents are involved in all these activities through the five workshops in which they work on a daily basis, depending on their abilities and interests.

These workshops are poultry and vegetables, herbs (growing and processing), craft, dairy and the overall caring for the land (including milking the cows, tending to the beehives, irrigation and invasive vegetation clearing).

According to fundraiser MariLouise Kannemeyer, the families of the residents pay a monthly pledge towards the cost of residents’ tenure at Camphill, while the remainder of the costs of running the estate and providing the

Prioritising the residents While Camphill had boosted its land production in recent years to enable it to sell some of its produce to the wider Overstrand community, including bread and dairy products (e.g. yoghurt, ice cream and cheese), a decision was taken last year to refocus on the core business of the farm’s community – that of the support of its residents.

Part of this refocus resulted in the dairy herd being reduced – now numbering around 20, with around 12 in milk at any time. Last year, the farm’s 30 bee hives produced 300 kg of cold-filtered, pure honey for the residents’ needs, and 50 eggs a day are laid by the chickens.

Products such as woven mats, ‘wonder ovens’ and reusable cloth shopping bags, as well as lavender eye masks and herbal teas, are produced by the residents in the craft workshop and sold at outlets in Hermanus. Other crafts are made by the residents purely for therapeutic purposes.

VEGGIE GARDEN Mari-Louise Kannemeyer with staff member Trevor Nokoyi.

CAMPHILL PRODUCTS The residents’ handywork includes pickled chillies and dried herbs.

Says Sam: “It’s a fine line, a daily challenge, constantly to find the balance between being a commercially viable organisation and providing the necessary support for our residents. We are very much a community that happens to live on a farm and not the other way around. Everything that happens here is primarily to support our community.”

Holistic approach The estate is managed with environmental sustainability uppermost in mind, with each of the houses using the

‘wonder ovens’ to reduce electricity costs for cooking, for example, and vermi-compost being produced for the gardens from kitchen and garden waste.

The chickens (including about 100 ‘in lay’) mostly forage on naturally occurring bugs for their food, as well as fallen fruit, such as grapes, planted especially for this purpose and to provide shade. They also eat scraps from the house kitchens and leftover whey from the dairy, so nothing goes to waste.

The poultry house now breeds its own chickens (87 were bred last year, according to Debi Diamond, the poultry workshop manager), and roosters are culled from time to time for the community to eat. The vegetables and herbs are grown using biodynamic and organic principles with ‘companion’ gardening in mind to minimise pests. The cows are grass-fed, living off pastures rather than being grain-fed. “We are very proud of how we raise our animals,” says assistant land manager Duncan Clews.

A big challenge on the estate is the vast amount of invasive vegetation clearing required, as there is an abundance of port jackson, black wattle, pine and eucalyptus trees, to name a few.

Says Duncan: “The invasives are a big issue. They are a fire hazard and they use up a lot of water. They also choke out the fynbos, which we want to preserve for future generations.”

The community is currently looking for sponsors to help clear this invasive vegetation.

Hodson notes that the dairy is currently being refurbished with plans to reopen it in the near future. In time, excess produce will once again be sold to the greater Overstrand community.

Members of the public are welcome to visit the community, but should please make an appointment first by contacting Mari-Louise on 021 200 2230.

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Passion Play spells gratitude and giving Nelly Roodt

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ermanus Passion Play director Fanus le Roux looks like Dozi and yes, people call him that. But this curly mophead with the pensive blue eyes does not earn his living from the arts. Instead, he gives much of his life and soul and income to the arts – all out of pure gratitude.

Fanus, a Villiersdorp businessman who lives in Greyton, spends a substantial part of the year preparing for the Passion Play – in Afrikaans – which has been staged at the Old Harbour in Hermanus on Good Friday night without fail since 1995. This year the play will be performed on Friday 14 April.

“I will continue with this project for as long as I can. I hope it’s for another 100 years,” he quips.

Fanus is 61 but there’s been no waning of his passion for this moving play.

It was a fall from a four-storey scaffolding that brought him to this pledge. He suffered many broken bones and long days

and nights in hospital. What carried him through it all was the miracle that he had survived.

said and put his money where his faith was.

In 2006 the play continued in the exquisite rocky harbour setting. It attracts an audience of between 2 000 and 3 000 people every year.

“I wanted to show how thankful I was. I do so with the Passion Play production annually.”

Hermanus residents will remember that it was the late Lisma Kotzé and her husband, Kobus, who started with the Passion Play in Hermanus 22 years ago. Fanus signed on at the start.

Lisma passed away in November last year at the age of 81. “This year’s production is a tribute to her,” Fanus says.

Fanus and his team have no desire to make any profit. “We present the Oberammergau marvel simply to spread the message of God.” Director Fanus le Roux and veteran actors Etienne Rossouw en Adelé Matthee at the first rehearsal of the 2017 Hermanus Passion Play.

The Kotzé couple retired in Hermanus after becoming well known for the excellent results they had achieved in training actors at their drama school in Bellville.

They perpetuated their success by producing the play locally.

In 2005 Lizma, then 71, phoned Fanus to tell him that the play run had come to an end. Not so, Fanus thought.

“This show must go on,” he

Someone once asked Fanus whether non-believers were also welcome. More than welcome, he replied. “We have had Chinese tourists coming to watch and they did not understand a word of Afrikaans. It touched them. That is exactly what we want.”

In 2015 the Overstrand Municipality gave recognition to the quality of the production and the contribution it makes to Hermanus. Lizma, Kobus and Fanus received certificates of excellence as its producers and presenters.

HERMANUS PASSION PLAY A multicultural cast depicting Oberammergau a la Old Harbour.

Year after year the production is a fulfilling venture. It is also

undeniably stressful for Fanus and his team. The expenditure for the sound system, the laser lighting, the banners, ticketbooking company rent, the design and make of costumes, accommodation and transport, and recording studio rent has to be budgeted for. Revenue from ticket sales has to cover this.

The production is multicultural and sometimes the player cannot afford public transport.

This aspect has to be managed week by week. Tracing past performers and recruiting new ones, updating the sound track, visits to the recording studio and ensuring that all involved are able to attend rehearsals are other arrangements that require meticulous planning.

This year the Passion Play actors started rehearsing on Sunday 5 March. For the next five weeks they will be at the Old Harbour every Sunday practising their parts.

Persons interested in taking part in the spectacular showpiece can contact Fanus on 078 483 3080. Tickets are available at Computicket, or at the box office at the Old Harbour venue on 14 April.

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28 March 2017

Book to illustrate Fernkloof’s natural heritage

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ne of the Overstrand’s biggest attractions, the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, will celebrate its 60th anniversary in style this year.

“Not only will the rich heritage of the reserve be highlighted during the annual Flower Festival from 22 – 25 September, the Hermanus Botanical Society (HBS) will also publish a full-colour glossy book to showcase all the reserve has to offer and serve as a guide to visitors,” says HBS Chairperson Di Marais.

“Hermanus is defined by its majestic mountains to the north and a breathtaking sweep of Walker Bay to the south. The mountains and the coastal Cliff Path constitute the protected areas of the reserve and it is visited annually by thousands of local and international tourists,” she says.

The custodians include the Overstrand Municipality, the Fernkloof Advisory Board and the HBS. According to Di the HSB not only has a mandate to protect the flora and fauna, it is also heavily involved in educating people on the need for conservation. “The society also maintains the gardens and other amenities, such as the Botanical Centre, which includes a visitors’ centre, hall and kitchen, an herbarium with 4 000 plant specimens, an office

Other animals such as porcupine, genet and hare are nocturnal and these mammals are seldom seen.

Although not as rich in bird-life as other areas in South Africa, 92 bird species have been recorded.

and storeroom, a toilet block and an area devoted to an indigenous nursery.”

The 60 km of hiking trails afford endless opportunities to explore the rich biodiversity in the reserve and entry is free.

Fernkloof was proclaimed in 1957 with 192 hectares of land and has over the years grown to cover 1 800 ha. It ranges in altitude from sea level to 842 m and protects coastal and fynbos and a small patch of evergreen forest.

Di says apart from the Cliff Path nature area, the coastal part of the reserve includes the Mossel River valley and the area from De Mond to Kettle Point, including the mouth of the Vogelgat River and a part of the Klein River

The sandy slopes of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve are home to the special Hermanus Erica (Erica hermsni) that is rated as endangered on the South African National Biodiversity Institute’s Red Data list of South African plants.

lagoon. “This means that the coastal area with its unique fynbos – different from that on the mountain slopes – as well as the sensitive lagoon area are linked to the area of the mountain that forms part of the reserve.”

There is no other place on earth where so many different species can be seen growing in such close proximity. In Fernkloof alone more than 1 600 species have thus far been collected and identified and the reserve is proud to host six of the seven endemic plant families specific to the Cape Floral Kingdom.

Grey rhebok, Cape grysbok, klipspringer, baboon, mongoose and dassies are present in small numbers.

Di says the book will be A5 size and glossy throughout and will be launched at this year’s Flower Festival in September.

“We are appealing for sponsorship for this very special publication that will illustrate and describe plants and creatures found in the reserve.

The cost of the book decreases if we have the funds to print more,” she says.

All sponsors of R500 or more will be listed in the book, while those sponsoring more than R5 000 will receive a company logo. A donation of R500 will secure a free book and donations of R1 000 or more will assure a special numbered and signed copy of the book with the donor’s name. These are limited to 100 copies.

Contributions can be deposited to the Hermanus Botanical Society, FNB Hermanus: Acc. number 5247 2034 711, Branch 250655.

Use your surname or company name and the word BOOK as the reference and email to botsochermanus@telkomsa.net

NEWS

GOOD

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28 March 2017 Thursday 30 March

■ 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 31 March ■ 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.

■ Bhuki Café: Enjoy tea, coffee and eats for only R20 (2 eats) or R30 (3 eats) to support the Friends of Hermanus Library. New volunteers are welcome and will be much appreciated. At Hermanus Library, every Friday from 09:00 - 11.30.

(2 adults & 2 children). At Paul Cluver Wine Estate, Elgin Valley, from 11:00 – 16:00.

■ 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.

■ ‘Kolwyntjie-Teetuin’: Senior citizens in the area

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

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

■ Easter Music: Johan Radloff, a long-standing member of U3A Overberg, has created a programme of sixteen parts, organised to follow the story of Easter in all its aspects. The programme will include music by Dvorak, Handel, Beethoven, Haydn, Bach, Elgar and Mendelssohn. At the Catholic Church hall, at 10:00.

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

Saturday 1 April

■ Fools & Fans Beer Festival: This inaugural festival is hosted by the TV show Beer Time and will feature local breweries, wineries, gin distillers and restaurants in the heart of Greyton. With live music by the Country Conquerors, Gary Deacon Duo and so much more! Tickets at R100 pp are available from www.quicket.co.za and children enter free. At the Moravian Hall, Greyton, from 11:00 – 18:00. For more details, contact Trevor on 078 802 0006 or tgerntholtz@gmail.com.

Monday 3 April ■ Classic Monday Bridge Club: Duplicate Bridge, every Monday at 13:00, at Fernkloof Hall.

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

Wednesday 5 April

■ Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine

■ Hermanus First Fridays: Join the 18 art galleries in the centre of Hermanus as they remain open until 20:00 for this month’s First Fridays Artwalk. Follow the orange as you stroll from gallery to gallery, meet the artists and mingle with fellow art lovers. (Find the HFF map on P 10.)

■ Lemm’s Corner Night Market: This popular 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.

Friday 7 – Sunday 9 April

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

■ Stanford River Festival: The Stanford Canoe Club is hosting the first Stanford River Festival at the King Street Slipway which will include all forms of paddling on the beautiful Klein River. Get all the details in the Stanford Good Guide on P 14.

■ The Hermanus Country Market: Next to the cricket field, Fairways Avenue, from 09:00-13:00.

Fresh local produce, wholesome goodies, and home-made crafts.

■ Lighthouse to Lighthouse MTB: This two day race is organised by Gansbaai Lions. The route starts at the historic Danger Point lighthouse near Gansbaai and follows the trail that the old wagons used almost a century ago to supply paraffin to the lighthouses. It will take you along gravel roads, spoor farm trails and through magnificent fynbos via the historic village of Elim to the Agulhas Lighthouse. The overnight stop is at the L’Agulhas caravan park. Departure the next morning is at 08:00 back to Gansbaai along a route that affords magnificent views over Walker Bay. The total distance is approximately 200 km.

Only 250 riders allowed. The entry fee for day 1 is R700 and for Day 2 R900. Enter online at www.roag.co.za/eventinfo. For enquiries, contact Boats van Staden on 072 789 3627 or boats@absamail.co.ca

Monday 10 April ■ Hermanus History Society: The speaker at this month’s HHS meeting is Prof Bill Nasson from the Stellenbosch University, who is an expert in South African history and author of many books and articles. He will be speaking on Afrikaners, the Second World War and its aftermath: the case of ‘sailor’ Malan and the torch commando. At the Catholic Church hall, at 16:00.

Wednesday 12 – Tuesday 18 April

Saturday 8 April

■ Market in the Garden: Set among the trees in

■ Hermanus parkrun: Meet at Hermanus Forest

the heart of town, at St Peter’s Church in Main Road, from 09:00-13:00.

■ South Hill Supper & Movie Nights: Join South Hill Vineyards in the Elgin Valley every Wednesday evening for sunset drinks from 18:00, supper at 19:00 and the screening of a movie at 20:00. This week it is the multi award-winning movie The Lunch Box (2014). The cost is R135 pp, incl. supper. Mid-week stay-over packages and baby-sitting facilities available. Contact 021 844 0888 or events@southhill.co.za

country for a wholesome family-friendly festival at Paul Cluver Wines. There will be apples, ciders, wines, tractor rides, lip-smacking country fare, oodles of games and live entertainment with Magic828AM broadcasting directly from the amphitheatre. Tickets are available at www.webtickets.co.za at R250 pp for adults, R100 for children under 18 or R550 for a Family Package

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

intimate evening with guitarist Albert Frost, who is a familiar and respected feature of the South African blues-rock music scene. See details in the Stanford Good Guide on P 14.

and crafts, gourmet eats, craft beers and wine bar.

On the corner of Main and Harbour Roads, every Sunday from 10:00 – 15:00.

■ Cluver Family Harvest Day: Escape to the

Saturday 8 – Sunday 9 April

■ ‘Kolwyntjie-Teetuin’: Senior citizens in the

■ Albert Frost at Stanford Hills: Enjoy an

■ Lemm’s Corner Market: Fabulous fine arts

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.

■ 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.

R20 (2 eats) or R30 (3 eats) to support the Friends of Hermanus Library. New volunteers are welcome and will be much appreciated. At Hermanus Library, every Friday from 09:00 - 11.30.

Sunday 2 April

■ Hermanus parkrun: Meet at Hermanus Forest

Friday 7 April

■ The Hermanus Country Market: Next to the cricket field, Fairways Avenue, from 09:00-13:00.

Fresh local produce, wholesome goodies, and home-made crafts.

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.

Thursday 6 April ■ Bird Club outing: Visitors are welcome to join the Hermanus Bird Club when they go twitching at Strandfontein – weather permitting.

Meet at 07:00 to consolidate transport at the Onrus Trading Post. The trip will be led by Barbara Palmer. For enquiries, contact Craig Holmes 028 313 2458.

■ 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.

■ Perlemoen Tip of Africa Slack Packing Trail: This 7 day / 6 night hiking trail from Gansbaai to Agulhas presents a new way of enjoying and exploring nature without the fuss of carrying heavy backpacks, as all kit will be transported to the next accommodation stop. The 95 km hike of beach and fynbos trails will include 2 nights camping and 4 nights in self-catering accommodation, with shared communal lunch and dinner. The cost is R3 750 pp incl. trail permits, guides and transport back to Gansbaai. Contact Iain on 072 327 2840 / 021 462 6755 or iain@awakening-intuition.com

Village

EXPLORER The

FOOD • WINE • ARTS

It’s a wrap for the 2017 harvest Hedda Mittner

H

arvest is the highlight on the calendar of every wine estate, when all the care lavished on their vineyards throughout the year finally comes to fruition. It is a time of great excitement, along with some anxiety – and long, back-breaking hours of labour.

But at the end of it all there are joyful celebrations to bless the harvest as it starts its journey from vine to bottle and the focus shifts from the vineyards to the cellars.

One of the first Walker Bay estates out of the starting blocks in mid-January was Benguela Cove, with the early pickings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes for the production of their vintage Methode Cap Classique (MCC), or South African bubbly if you will. Next up were the white varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Viognier, followed by the reds a few weeks later.

Most of the estates completed the harvest last week and the grapes are now safely in the cellars, where the winemaking teams still have a great deal to do as they work their magic.

After a dry warm summer with little rain and humidity, the harvest again started a bit earlier than the long-term average, as was the case in 2016. A sudden downpour at the onset of harvest brought a timeous replenishment of soil moisture and the overall verdict

“

is that the ripening conditions had been good and the grapes were in excellent condition.

Because of the dry conditions, most of the vineyards yielded a lighter crop. “Healthy quality fruit, phenolic and sugar ripeness coinciding well and good flavour development all create much expectation from this memorable vintage,” comments the Bouchard Finlayson winemaking team.

Predictions are optimistic for this year’s vintage of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the two varietals that our region is becoming increasingly known for on both the national and international stage.

The most recent accolade went to Bouchard Finlayson, when The Drinks Business announced the results of its prestigious Global Pinot Noir Masters Awards, recognising the finest Pinot Noirs in the world. In last year’s competition, Bouchard Finlayson’s Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 2013 scored Gold, followed this year by their flagship red, the 2013 Tête de Cuvée Galpin Peak Pinot Noir also taking Gold, at 94 points.

Bouchard Finlayson founder and cellar master Peter Finlayson and winemaker Chris Albrecht are delighted with these results, proving once more that the Hemel-enAarde Valley is now internationally established as a micro-location for the production of the finest quality Pinot Noir.

BOUCHARD FINLAYSON Ending the 2017 harvest on a high note by taking gold at the Global Pinot Noir Masters Awards.

The Hemelen-Aarde Valley is now internationally established as a microlocation for the production of the finest quality Pinot Noir.

”

Expectations are also high for Creation Wines’ new vintages of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

CREATION Cellarmaster JC Martin (second from left) with his harvest team, which included interns from all over the world.

SUMARIDGE Winemakers Reggie Maphumulo and Walter Pretorius in the Pinot Noir vineyard.

“This has been an exceptional vintage for Creation and we’ve had a great harvest team this year,” reports co-owner Carolyn Martin. “Our Queen of White Wines or ABC (Absolutely Brilliant Chardonnay) has been transferred to 225-litre French oak barrels, undergoing primary fermentation.”

Cellarmaster JC Martin’s take on the vintage so far is a Chardonnay-perfect scenario: “Great hang-time with brilliant levels of acidity.”

With all their Pinot Noir safely in the cellar, the enthusiastic cellar team reports some exciting experimentation with

wild ferments. “The first two batches have already been pressed and show beautiful and vivacious bouquets,” says Carolyn. “JC’s philosophy of ‘enhancing the beauty of nature’ is once again paying off and we are looking forward to showing our guests, clients, agents and sommeliers the provenance of our labour over the next few years.”

At Sumaridge, winemaker Walter Pretorius is also excited about the quality of the 2017 harvest. “The grapes are healthy with good acidity and the picking was done at optimum ripeness. I’m particularly impressed with the quality of our Pinotage this year. Because it’s been such a dry summer, the few showers we’ve had throughout harvest season brought some relief. Looking forward, we now need a lot more rain and hopefully a cold, wet winter.”

Sumaridge will be doing their last pickings of Syrah this week.

Then it’s a wrap for the 2017 harvest and the celebrations can begin!

If you’d like to join in the fun, Bartho and Suné Eksteen’s Wijnskool is hosting a Harvest Party over the Easter weekend on 15 April, followed by the Bot River wine community’s famous Barrels & Beards Festival on 22 April. Contact wijnskool@hermanus.co.za or call Suné on 072 323 5060.

Tickets to the Barrels & Beards are available on www.quicket.co.za or contact Wilmari Geyer on 084 231 8930 / info@bartonvineyards.co.za

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Village Explorer

28 March 2017

Stephanie and Greg Ferent are the new owners of The Plough Shed in Hermanus.

N

The Plough Shed broadens its range

ew owners Gregoire and Stephanie Ferent have brought a dash of French flair to The Plough Shed since relocating from Johannesburg and taking over this charming little shop in Hermanus in February.

The Plough Shed is already known as the only stockists of Annie Sloan decorative paints in the Overberg. While this will continue to be the cornerstone of their business, Greg says they now also offer a range of new products and services that have transformed The Plough Shed into a full décor destination.

As the owners of Wall Couture in Johannesburg since 2006, Greg and Stephanie are now able to offer an extensive selection of stylish wallpaper,

including paintable wallpaper, and wall murals to Hermanus and surrounding areas.

Wall Couture was born from Stephanie’s passion for décor and an increased fascination with the wonderful and decisive impact that wall covering and cladding have on a space, be it at home or at the office. Her work has gradually become more and more focused on adorning walls, and over the years, wallpaper has naturally become her most prominent field of expertise.

The Ferents’ passion for wall covering and decorative surfaces at large, has resulted in Wall Couture taking wall adornment to a new level and their work spreads over a large residential portfolio as

well as corporate and hospitality markets. Customers will benefit from their décor passion and expertise, attention to detail, personal advice and free home or office consultation in Hermanus and surrounding areas.

Other new products offered by The Plough Shed include a range of attractive and durable outdoor fabrics and small pieces of vide poche furniture that are sexy and contemporary. Prototypes of these pieces can be viewed in the shop and once ordered, they will be locally manufactured and finished to the customer’s specifications in different styles and colours.

Visit The Plough Shed in Dirkie Uys Street, Hermanus or call 072 518 0485

Village Explorer

28 March 2017

11

Revisiting the colourful past of the Overberg killed per annum between 1916 and 1920. The extent of shipwrecks along the coast also surprised him, mentioning that over 140 have been mapped along the Cape South Coast.

Hedda Mittner

A

sudden downpour on Thursday last week did not deter book lovers from attending the launch of The Historical Overberg at The Book Cottage, where author Chris Schoeman was in conversation with Angela Heslop to talk about his latest book.

The topic of the book was of particular interest to locals, as The Historical Overberg contains comprehensive and fascinating information not only about the culture, architecture and character of the Overberg, but also the colourful figures – from the early Khoi inhabitants to the later explorers, innovators, artists and writers – that have been attracted to the region.

Chris was born in Somerset East in the Eastern Cape and holds Masters’ Degrees in History and Historical Preservation from the Universities of Port Elizabeth and Colorado State, USA. Having worked as an historian and journalist for many years, Chris has been publishing nonfiction books since 1994. He has authored and co-authored an impressive range of books, including The Historical Karoo, The Unknown Van Gogh,

Angela Heslop of the Hermanus History Society introduced the author of The Historical Overberg, Chris Schoeman at the book launch. On the right is the owner of The Book Cottage, John Morris.

Trudy and David HIlton-Barber deep in conversation with author Chris Schoeman.

Churchill’s South Africa, District Six and Boer Boy – Memoirs of an Anglo-Boer War Youth.

In The Historical Overberg, Chris turned his attention to the rich history of South

Africa’s southernmost region, which he has explored for many years. “I had collected so much information and taken so many photographs that a book was the logical next step,” he said. “I was very

Other discoveries included lesser-known small towns like Stormsvlei between Riviersonderend and Swellendam which, for more than 200 years, was a major junction on the Old Cape Wagon Route.

Avis MacIntyre was among the book lovers who had their copies of The Historical Overberg signed by the author.

Angela Heslop and Sandy Jenkin enjoying a glass of Creation wine at The Book Cottage. pleased when my publisher, Penguin Random House, agreed to publish the book in a similar format to that of The Historical Karoo.”

Asked by Angela if he’d made

any new discoveries while researching the book, Chris said he was fascinated by the scale of whaling activities in Betty’s Bay in the early part of the 20th century, with approximately 300 whales

Chris stressed the importance of not only travellers but also ordinary families and individuals recording their experiences in journals. “People might think their lives are insignificant but they’re not – these accounts provide historians with invaluable information,” he said.

“These recordings should be treasured and preserved for future generations. In contrast to other towns that do not thrive because nobody cares, Hermanus clearly is a town where people care about preserving its unique character and history.”

Copies of The Historical Overberg are available from The Book Cottage in Long Street, Hermanus.

Call 028 313 0834.

Art walk our town The winner of the lucky draw during the Epic First Fridays Artwalk in March is Sally Paulet, production manager at HIK Abalone Farm. Sally drew the lucky number at Malcolm Bowling Art Gallery and won an artwork donated by local artist Erna Dry of The Art Gallery.

Sally says she went on her first Artwalk in November last year and last month was the third one she’d attended. “It’s a wonderful initiative,” she enthused. “I thought once you’ve seen a gallery’s works there was not much point in going again, but in fact the displays change all the time and there is always something new and interesting to

see. I am now a regular Artwalker!”

The next Artwalk will be on Friday 7 April when the art galleries in the centre of town will remain open until 20:00. Enter the lucky draw for only R20 by purchasing a badge at any of the participating galleries and stand a chance of winning April’s artwork donated by Leon Müller of Art Thirst Gallery.

With Sally (on the left) are Lize van der Walt, Jeandré Marinier, Erna Dry and Malcolm Bowling.

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

Village Explorer

12

28 March 2017

Restaurants keep it fresh, local and seasonal

I

’ve been in love with The Marine since moving to Hermanus from the big city 15 years ago. Having drinks on the patio overlooking the sea on a balmy summer’s evening, enjoying an intimate dinner at the restaurant, Seafood @ The Marine, and indulging in an exquisite five course meal paired with the wines from a local winery at the Gourmet Food & Wine evenings at The Pavilion during the winter months… those are just some of my treasured memories.

While there are those who perceive five-star establishments as intimidating and forbidding, there is nothing stiff or fuddy-duddy about Hermanus’ own grand old lady.

Gracious and elegant it may be, but it’s a relaxed and inviting space – and it’s not only for wealthy tourists to enjoy. With its rich history spanning more than a century, this iconic landmark also welcomes locals and non-resident visitors to experience a taste of the good life.

In November last year, Seafood @ The Marine made way for a new restaurant, ORIGINS. Executive Chef Grant Parker says the name reflects its mission of telling the story of our region’s unique culture and cuisine on every plate. The emphasis is on local and seasonal produce, because they not only taste better but are part of the region’s fabric, providing us with what we need from season to season.

“Origins also sources locally to support our community, because, just as the Khoisan understood, there is nothing more communal than a meal shared, a meal savoured together,” says Grant.

Instead of the usual starters, mains and desserts, Origins’ innovative and highly original menu is divided into Small Plates (tapas); Shoots, Stems and Leaves (salads); Hunted (meat, chicken, fish and seafood); Gathered (veggies and side dishes); Sweetness;

to learn from the masters of the trade – an Italian charcuterie workshop by Lorenzo Ciman, the “singing Italian pig farmer” from La Masseria, and a French charcuterie workshop at Môreson in Franschhoek by Neil Jewell, “South Africa’s charcuterie king”, who is also one of Glen Oakes’s few select clients.

What’s cooking

Restaurant News

By Hedda Mittner

EAT Head Chef Connel Massyn (laft) with head waiter Tammy Nombewu and Pastry Chef Nikki Lee.

and finally, Cheeses of our Land and Preserves of Origins.

Executive Chef Grant Parker, whose wife Annemie is the general manager of The Marine, hails from Zimbabwe, where he developed a love of nature and wildlife while growing up. He trained at the Institute of Hotel & Tourism Management and has gained experience all over the globe, from the UK to Kuwait, Malaysia and Zambia. Among the top hotels where he has worked are The Palace, The Westcliff, The Royal, The Royal Livingston and Rattray’s on MalaMala Game Reserve.

Grant was also part of the opening team for The Durban Hilton and The Cardiff Hilton in Wales.

Grant and Annemie met when they were both employed at Cybele Lodge and together they joined The Pettenberg in 2013. When the opportunity arose last year to transfer to The Marine, they were happy to relocate to Hermanus. “Plet is very seasonal and Hermanus has become less so over the years,” says Grant.

“People visit this area throughout the year and it offers a greater variety of attractions.”

Grant’s philosophy of cooking is underpinned by using only

Among the new equipment that went along with this new venture was an impressive curing chamber imported from Italy, where the fruit of Connel’s labours – pancetta, coppa and lomo – is now slowly developing to its full potential.

The charcuterie will be added to the Eat’s menu within a few months and will also be available for purchase by restaurants, tasting rooms, caterers and accommodation establishments.

Connel has recently been joined in the kitchen by new pastry chef Nikki Lee, who graduated from Warwick’s Chef School last year and interned at Eat for six weeks as part of her practical training. Last month also saw the return of vivacious head waiter Tammy Nombewu after she’d been on maternity leave for three months. Tammy says she is overjoyed to be back at work as she missed the buzz of the holiday season and the cameradie of her “other family”.

ORIGINS Executive Chef Grant Parker tells the story of our region’s unique culture and cuisine on every plate, the freshest of ingredients and not overcomplicating his dishes. He is as mindful of what is put on the plate as what is left off the plate.

As creative and complex as his dishes are, they always ensure that the natural flavours of the ingredients are tasted and savoured. In addition to the menu, the Chef’s Blackboard introduces at least three new daily dishes to reflect the season and to allow Grant and his team to champion exciting fresh produce.

The interior of Origins offers

an intimate open-kitchen ambience with a fireplace for those chilly winter days, while another section of the restaurant faces towards the front lawn and the ocean.

Customers are also welcome to enjoy their meal outside on the patio when the weather allows. Origins is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week; contact 028 313 1000 for bookings.

Another local restaurant that prioritises local, reliable and ethical sources is EAT in The Village. This establishment

was taken over by Sheena Bruce in November 2014 and since then a close bond has been forged between her and Head Chef Connel Massyn.

Prior to securing Glen Oakes as a supplier of pork, I accompanied Sheena and Connel on a trip last year to this free-range pig farm in the valley near Solitaire.

Since then, Eat has embarked on a whole new venture into the world of charcuterie.

Immersing themselves in the study curing and smoking, Connel attended two courses

Apart from the consistently good quality of their food and the friendly service, I think it is this jovial vibe among the staff that always makes a visit to Eat an enjoyable occasion for me. Connel is probably the most even-tempered and unflappable chef I’ve ever met and the staff all adore “mama” Sheena – happy staff certainly make for a happy restaurant!

To add to the vibe, local musician Jared Prior is performing regularly at Eat. If you enjoy dining to the mellow tunes of golden oldies from the ‘60s to ‘90s, keep on eye on their facebook page – Eat Hermanus.

Call 028 316 2348 to book.

GOOD

NEWS NEWS

28 March 2017

Skip to the beat of Onrus

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bundle of energy and enthusiasm named Sulet Joubert has brought new life to Onrus by opening the Heartbeat Café & Lifestyle Shop on the corner of Van Blommestein Street and Old Main Road. It was a welcome sight when outside tables, umbrellas and comfy chairs recently reappeared at the premises that housed The Wild Duck before it closed down a few years ago.

Sulet, who is the sister of Nicole Verhoogt (married to chef Anton Verhoogt of Fisherman’s Cottage), spent many years in the catering industry in Cape Town and on private yachts overseas before relocating to Hermanus at the end of last

year. She chose the name Heartbeat because it contains the words ‘art’ and ‘eat’ – two of her favourite things. With the ‘eat’ part well on its way, Sulet is in the process of adding home décor, small gifts and clothing to her offering.

At the moment she is working from a tiny kitchen at the back of the building, but plans are underway to extend it and create an open-concept kitchen. While she’ll be open for the whole of April, Sulet says she’ll probably close shop some time in May to complete the renovations.

Until then, locals can continue to enjoy Sulet’s wonderful

coffees, teas, milkshakes, smoothies and fresh juices; not to mention the most delectable cheesecake, carrot cake and brownies. There is also fresh bread on sale every day, along with home-made quiches, muffins, croissants, and Houw Hoek pies and sausage rolls. For lunch there is a variety of gourmet sarmies on ciabatta, sourdough or multi-grain bread, a scrumptious beef burger, salad or soup of the day.

The Heartbeat café is open from Tuesday – Friday 08:00 – 16:00 and Saturday from 08:00 – 14:30. Closed on Sunday and Monday. Sulet is also available for private and corporate catering; call 082 441 3344.

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Village Explorer

14 Every Saturday

28 March 2017 Friday 7 – Sunday 9 April ■ Stanford River Festival: The Stanford Canoe

Club is hosting the first Stanford River Festival which will include all forms of paddling on the beautiful Klein River. SUPs, K1, K2, K3, sea kayaks, Indians, guppies welcome. R100 per race, and R50 for Under 23s. There will be a market on the river bank along lower Shortmarket with food and drink on the Saturday. At King Street Slipway, Stanford.

For more information, contact Felix on 082 492 7914 or Stanford Tourism on 028 341 0340.

Saturday 8 April ■ Stanford Morning Market: Jadon’s real ciabattas are back! Lots of cakes, fudge, salad, goat’s and cow’s milk cheeses, fresh vegetables, Scotch eggs plus pies and quiches straight from the oven.

Erwin’s sausages and cold meats will be available, as well as pickles, jams, sauces, etc. Come and have a look! On the Stanford Hotel stoep, from 09:00 – 12:00.

Saturday 1 April ■ Autumn Market: Roosterkoek, boerewors

rolls with tomato relish, hamburgers, sosaties, a wine stall, fynbos stall, and coffee, tea & hot chocolate. At the Stanford Dutch Reformed Church, c/o Church and Queen Victoria Street, from 08:30. For more information, contact Elizabeth Gilman on 082 553 4250.

Every Wednesday

■ Graze Farmers Market: Reduce your carbon

footprint and get your fresh veggies at Graze Slow Food Café, from 09:00 – 12:00. Always seasonal, always fresh. Stay for coffee and breakfast. Contact Tabby & Alex on 076 243 1930.

Friday 31 March ■ Sunset Market: One of the few real country

markets offering food, wine, beer, crafts, music and

■ Market Square Family Gathering: The 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 and 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.

■ Supper in Stanford: A pop-up supper in a

private home with a Middle Eastern / Mediterranean menu back by popular demand.

Butter bean salad with halloumi, Za'ata chicken and Koshiri rice with a selection of Middle Eastern inspired salads and a caramel and macadamia nut yoghurt dessert. Bring your own drinks.

Contribution R200 pp. Booking is essential: Contact Marcelle on 083 227 6828 or Sally on 082 940 3243.

Monday 10 & Tuesday 11 April

Stanford Christian Community invites you to join in a day of family fun. Free face painting, jumping castles, quad bike rides, food stands, tea garden.

At Market Square, from 09:00 – 15:00. For more information, contact 082 960 5687.

■ Urgent Zoo Rescue: Support Panthera Africa

in rescuing two tigers and a lioness from a closeddown zoo at this semi-formal fundraiser. The evening will include a three course dinner paired with Creation wines, a live auction with great goods and services – and remember to bring your dancing shoes! At White Water Farm, Stanford, from 18:00 for 18:30. To secure your spot at R500 pp, make payment to Panthera Africa NPC, First National Bank, Branch code 250 655, Account no.

62459961142. Mark the payment: Fund + Surname. Visit www.pantheraafrica.com or contact 076 974 3088 / info@pantheraafrica.com.

■ Farm Style Cooking Experience: Learn how to

cook in the style of the farmers during the school holidays! The course includes bread baking, pasta making, use of organic veggie garden, lunch and farm-related activities. All ages welcome! The cost is R250 pp per day. Accommodation special for those doing the course. At Beloftebos, Paardenberg Farm, from 09:00 – 15:00. Contact Jann Gafney at stay@beloftebos.co.za or 082 479 1113 or contact Coia de Villiers for more details on 082 3915331 or coia@beloftebos.co.za

Monday 11 April ■ Full Moon Wandelpad Stroll: Join the Stanford

■ Albert Frost: Enjoy an intimate evening with

this familiar and respected artist of the South African blues-rock music scene. For the past two decades, the energetic performances of this accomplished guitarist have dazzled audiences as he deftly alternates between rhythm and lead, while showcasing acoustic and electric guitars R350 includes welcome drink, the show and a fantastic three course meal. At The Tasting Room at Stanford Hills, at 18:30. Limited tickets available; book on 072 639 6135.

Tourism Office for this monthly walk through the village. R30 adults, R10 kids and R10 dogs with complimentary refreshments served in the Tourism Courtyard. At 18:00. Weather dependent so please call 028 341 0340 to confirm.

Saturday 15 April ■ Junktique Market: From butter churns to

curtain rails and spanners to alarm clocks, come and browse through our junk to find your treasure. Bring a wheelbarrow to load up your loot! Make sure you get there early to snag the best stuff. At the Tourism Office Courtyard, from 09:00 – 12:00. For more information, call 028 341 0340.

Village Explorer

28 March 2017

15

A river runs through it

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Stanford teens become entrepreneurs Never short on creative ideas, local Stanford hangout Coffee Corner’s latest venture is The Tuxi, run by a group of local teens. This unique delivery service was founded by Coffee Corner’s owners Marisa and Steve, in collaboration with the parents of the teens, who now bring an authentic Stanford experience right to your doorstep.

THE TUXI TEENS Alex Chancey, Sara Walne, Ruby Walne and John Chancey.

The Tuxi delivers coffees, newspapers, croissants, muffins, cakes and lunches from Coffee Corner's menu to any destination in the Stanford area.

Among the meals that can be ordered online between 08:00 and 16:00 are bobotie and yellow rice, cottage pie, lasagne, chicken a la king, chicken pot pie and bangers & mash – all for under R50!

Cheesecake or carrot cake at R35 a slice and a range of cooldrinks are also available for between R15 and R20 per can.

kick-start their day with their fabulous coffee. They are also famous for their brekkies, delicious home-made bread, cakes and other sweet treats, pies and quiches.

evenings and locals rock up to celebrate the start of the weekend on Friday afternoons from 16:00, when drinks and snacks are served. A hearty supper is available from 18:30.

Another highlight is their popup dinner service on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings (except when there is a Sunset Market) when local foodie Bryan Robertson is in charge of the kitchen.

The teens are now working on expanding their business to also include a lift service.

Coffee Corner is the place where residents routinely meet up for a natter and a meal, and where visitors get to experience authentic village life. Their doors open at 07:30 for those early risers, and locals pop in to

On Spoil Mom Mondays, mom has the night off and the whole family can enjoy a home-cooked meal, with mom’s first glass of wine on the house. Dinner is also available on Wednesday

Find Coffee Corner at 2 Morton Street, Stanford. They are open Monday to Friday from 07:30 – 16:00, and on Saturday from 08:00 – 14:00. For enquiries, orders or to book for the pop-up dinners, call 028 341 0034 or 084 498 4385.

Orders can also be placed online at www.stanfordcoffee corner.co.za

he newly formed Stanford Canoe Club, in conjunction with the Grootbos Foundation and Stanford Tourism, will host an inaugural Stanford River Festival from 7 - 9 April. This family event will be held on the Klein River in Stanford, and anything that floats and can be paddled or rowed, is welcome to join in.

The main action happens on Saturday, 8 April, with events of 5 km, 10 km, 15 km and guppy (juniors) races, which will be open to all-comers – SUPs, K1s, K2s, K3s, sea kayaks, Indian canoes, surf skis and guppies. There will be food and beverages for sale on the river bank at the bottom of King Street. In excess of 200 craft from far and wide are expected

to be on the water.

The programme includes a WCCU President’s Trophy event, in which a number of current and former Springbok canoeists will be competing for line honours. For those who have not seen these athletes in action, now is the time!

There are piles of prizes, and a raffle in which the main prizes include a COREBAN SUP, Escape Gear equipment and Holdfast roof racks – amongst many other local prizes. All funds raised go to the Stanford Canoe Club Development Academy which teaches local juniors about paddling and water proficiency.

The Surf Ski division will be hotly contested by a number of local paddlers competing on the world circuit, while the SUP section promises stiff competition amongst top local competitors.

The Grootbos Foundation is key in this development training which occurs every Wednesday and Saturday, and Stanford children have started to participate in official canoeing events using their new skills.

On Friday evening, 7 April at 17:00 there will be a sunset cruise for those wishing to ‘blow out the cobwebs’, while on Sunday, 9 April, there is a Pursuit Race from Stanford to the Hermanus Yacht Club.

The Grootbos Foundation development juniors will be participating in the races too, many in the Guppy category.

Come and join in the fun on the banks of the Klein River! See the Good Guide on P 14 for details.

16

Village Explorer Just seven months after taking over as owners of Ford Hermanus, Wikus Niemand and Tank Coetzee have decided it is time to expand their business interests in town. According to Wikus (left) a new secondhand car dealership is being developed across the street from their current business in Arum Street. “We have identified the need for a business specialising in affordable and reliable secondhand cars and we are very excited about the new development,� says Wikus.

According to him the new dealership will open its doors by the middle of the year.

PHOTO: De Waal Steyn

28 March 2017

To advertise in The Village NEWS, contact Rina de Wet on 083 604 0808

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NEWS NEWS

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28 March 2017

OnVerWag rocks Davies Pool

L

ocal residents flocked to Davies Pool on Saturday evening for OnVerWag’s annual Unplugged Earth Hour Fundraiser. The wind might have been a tad chilly but there was nourishment and entertainment in abundance to keep everyone warm.

draws throughout the evening and all funds raised through the Lucky Ticket sales will go towards OnVerWag’s CCTV Camera project for Onrus and Vermont.

Among the musicians who performed out of the goodness of their hearts were Edian Barnard, the Pencilmen, Clive, Al & Mags, Ryno Velvet and Wiilem Welsyn. OnVerWag Treasurer and event convenor Caroline Gabb said she wishes to thank everyone who supported and participated in the event, which included switching off all lights from 20:30 – 21:30.

Earth Hour is a global initiative coordinated by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and other volunteer organisations.

Millions of people all over the world set aside those 60 minutes every year in support of climate change action.

While there don’t seem to be many individuals or businesses who honour this initiative in Hermanus, the OnVerWag Earth Hour is a wellorganised, popular and heartwarming event that will hopefully be able to obtain sponsorship in order to continue its good work.

OnVerWag volunteers with chairperson Abner Inghels and treasurer Caroline Gabb (centre back) at the Earth Hour Unplugged event. All funds raised through the Lucky Ticket sales will go towards OnVerWag’s CCTV Camera project for Onrus and Vermont.

Friends, neighbours and family arrived with blankets, chairs, picnic baskets and cooler bags for a fun-filled evening of live music, food and craft stalls, light photography and stargazing after the sun went down.

There were several lucky

Niki Greek’s food stall provided scrumptious sustenance to the Earth Hour supporters.

Emilia Knight and Peter Hodgskin were among the many friends, neighbours and family who celebrated Earth Hour at Davies Pool in Onrus on Saturday evening.

– Hedda Mittner

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28 March 2017

Please think of the otters Rare frog found at Phillipskop M

any local residents have had the pleasure recently of spotting Cape Clawless Otters along our coastline and capturing some striking photographs of the animals.

A large audience of otter enthusiasts turned up at the Whale Coast Conservation (WCC) public talk on Cape Clawless Otters by Nicola Okes, a PhD candidate at UCT. Nicola’s research was done on the Cape Peninsula, but her findings are almost certainly true for our coastline as well. She will involve locals in a citizen science “otter spotting” project to monitor otters here in the near future.

There are many different otter species around the world but only one, the clawless otter, occurs around our coast. Their footprints are therefore easily distinguished from that of a dog in that you will see no claws in the prints. Nicola’s research showed that otters favour river mouths and wetlands near protected coastlines where riverine vegetation provides shelter.

This is not surprising as they hunt in both fresh and salt water.

A marine protected area provides ample food in the form of crabs, rock lobsters and urchins.

But they are dependent on fresh water to wash the salt off their very thick fur that protects them from the cold water.

It is surprising that otters will inhabit these prime locations,

ECO KID Ten-year-old Morgan Hendricks (above and below) with her mom Tertia (left), WCC educators Sheraine van Wyk and Shirley Mgoboza, and otter expert Nicola Okes. alongside humans who also favour these very locations.

Human activity, pollution and the presence of other animals such as dogs are some high threats posed to otters.

However, such threats are far outweighed by the otters’ need for the freshwater/ seawater interface.

Otters hunt at dawn and dusk when they can be spotted crossing the beach to and from the sea. This is the very time that the proposed new legislation on dogs will allow dogs to be off-lead. Otters can seriously injure dogs if they attack the otters, but they will avoid dogs if they can. So dogs running loose near their hunting grounds can cause them to miss their morning hunt or stay out at sea much

longer in the evening, which can cause serious hypothermia.

Morgan Hendricks is a 10year-old eco-kid. She loves dogs. She loves otters. She is also the WCC Junior Reporter.

Morgan attended Nicola’s talk on Cape Clawless Otters and then joined an expedition led

by Nicola to try to find some otters at dawn the next day.

Along with WCC, Morgan has a special request for people walking their dogs at these times. “Please help to protect our otters. Be sure to keep dogs on the lead when you walk along the coast near a river mouth or wetland in the early morning or evening.”

– Anina Lee, WCC

An exciting discovery was recently made at Phillipskop Mountain Reserve near Stanford when the small rare frog, the Montane Marsh Frog (Poyntonia paludicola), was recorded at 280 m in the mountainous area of the reserve. The species is restricted to the Hottentots Holland, Kogelberg and Klein River Mountains.

1989. A few specimens had been brought to the attention of scientists by hikers in the mountains. The experts had been unable to place the specimens with confidence to any known frog. In fact, the frog was considered so distinct that when they did name it, they placed it in a genus of its own, Poyntonia, and it is still the only species in that genus.

The Montane Marsh Frog is only about 3cm long. It is covered with many small warts, which make it look more like a toad than a frog.

As its common name suggests, its habitat is in marshy areas and seepage zones rather than streams, in mountainous areas above 200 m altitude. The scientific name also reflects its habitat – paludicola means “marshdwelling”.

The frog was originally found in about five localities.

More have been discovered since, including at Fernkloof, Vogelgat and Maanschynkop in the Klein River Mountains.

However, Phillipskop is the furthest east that the species has been recorded, thus expanding its known range.

It is classified as Near Threatened due to its limited range and threat by alien plants. Knowing that it is protected at Phillipskop will help to ensure its ongoing survival.

The Montane Marsh Frog was only recognised as a species in

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28 March 2017

Protect pets against all kinds of worms

N

o pet owner, particularly those of us who consider ourselves responsible and loving, likes to imagine that our pets might harbour worms but the reality is that at some time or another most pets do.

4. Deworm pregnant pets before breeding, and again before whelping to help prevent infecting newborn pets.

My Pet

What medication do I use?

Dr Hilldidge Beer

Even pampered Poms and Poodles can carry nasty parasites and regular deworming is as important as annual vaccinations and good nutrition.

Pets can carry several kinds of worms, some of them deadly, yet only two types (tapeworm and roundworm) are commonly seen with the unaided eye.

Some cause few or no symptoms. These worms or parasites include the tapeworm, the roundworm, the hookworm, the whipworm and the heartworm.

Some worm eggs or larvae can lie dormant in the pet’s body and may be activated only in times of stress or, in the case of roundworms and hookworms, in the later stages of pregnancy when they activate and infest the soon-to-be-born puppies and kittens.

Worms that infect pets Tapeworms This parasitic flatworm lives in

the intestines. It has a long ribbon-like body with many segments that can become independent, and a small head bearing hooks and suckers. Tapeworms must first pass through a flea before they can infect your dog and cat.

Look out for Biting, licking at the tail or dragging of the hindquarters.

Dried, white, grain-like segments similar to rice in the faeces or under your pet’s tail.

Roundworms A round-bodied, unsegmented worm that hatches and lives in the intestines. The eggs enter the

body through contaminated water or food.

Look out for General signs of weakness in your pet, a swollen belly, dull coat and vomiting.

Hookworms Attach to the wall of the gut, puncturing the blood vessels and feeding on the animal’s blood. A severe infestation can kill puppies.

Look out for Diarrhoea, which is often bloody, weight loss and anaemia.

Whipworm Usually transmitted through ingestion of contaminated

matter.

Look out for Blood diarrhoea and faecal incontinence, weight loss and malnutrition.

intestine.

Look out for Dehydration, upset tummy, abdominal discomfort, flatulence.

Heartworm Heartworm disease is a serious, often fatal, disease that is spread through the bites of mosquitoes. In very rare circumstances, it can infect humans too. Heart and lung tissue is severely damaged.

Look out for Coughing, reduced exercise tolerance, heart failure.

Spirocerca lupi A potentially lethal disease.

Sudden death can occur.

Look out for Regurgitation, coughing, weight loss, loss of appetite, salivation.

Giardia Giardia resides in the small

How do I prevent worms?

1. Deworm every three months 2. Remove faeces from your lawn, street or kennel daily.

3. Control fleas

There are several preventive topical and oral medications available from EberVet Vetshops. These include: • REVOLUTION - a tick and flea drop that is also a de-wormer.

Safe to use on puppies from 6 weeks of age and pregnant and lactating bitches.

• PROFENDER – a topical drop for cats covering roundworm, hookworm and adult tapeworm.

• ANTEZOLE paste.

• MILBEMAX chewable tablet that’s safe for pregnant and lactating bitches, covering hookworm, roundworm and tapeworm.

When must I deworm?

• Puppies and kittens every 2 weeks until the age of 3 months, then once a month until the age of 6 months • For pets 6 months and older, every 3 months.

• Preventive drugs are highly effective when regularly administered.

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

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28 March 2017

Residents urged to still use water sparingly

A

lthough the current drought is extending its hold in the Western Cape and tough limitations on water consumption have been implemented in most towns, Overstrand residents can still enjoy a breather from water restrictions as there is not an immediate need to reduce water usage.

It is, however, important that residents take a longer-term view and consider the possibility of the drought extending into the next winter rainfall period.

Rainfall for 2015 and 2016 was below the long-term average and the De Bos Dam is 69,5% full, compared to 70,3% this time last year.

The Overstrand remains a water scarce area with limited water resources, and users are

reminded to use water sparingly, especially in view of the approaching Easter holiday period.

reducing the total annual potable water demand by 21% since 2008, despite a rapidly growing population.

replacement, water meter replacement, leak detection and repair, pressure management and awareness.

“For us to ensure that we have enough water available for everyone in the Overstrand, we need your help. We have a collective responsibility to use water sparingly. This means thinking about water differently and finding more efficient ways of using it. While this may cause a certain amount of inconvenience, we call upon all residents to lead the charge for water conservation and to educate our communities to use water sparingly,” says the expert on water management and Deputy Director of Engineering Planning, Hanré Blignaut.

Currently there are eight boreholes in operation, and they supply approximately 30% of the town’s water demand.

Save water Users are reminded of the Overstrand water services bylaw which determines that no irrigation should take place between the hours of 09:00 and 17:00.

Overstrand Municipality and its consumers succeeded in

The abstraction of groundwater to supplement the water supply from the De Bos Dam to the Greater Hermanus area played an important role in preventing water shortages from occurring during the current summer season.

The municipality’s successful water demand management programme further contributed to actual water savings and reducing water losses. The programme includes water pipe

In an attempt to reduce excessive water consumption, Overstrand Municipality has been using a rising block tariff.

There are six steps in the rising block tariff structure, with the highest being R47.64/kℓ for consumption above 60 kℓ per month.

The municipality’s sewerage tariff is also charged per kilolitre, based on 70% of the water consumption at a property, to a maximum of

50 kℓ of water consumed per month. This allows for irrigation consumption, which is not returned to the sewerage system.

Every property owner receives a graph illustrating their last 24 months’ water consumption trend on their monthly municipal bill, allowing them to identify abnormal consumption.

Gansbaai to benefit from R8,4 million bulk water supply upgrade The anticipated upgrading of the final phase for the bulk water supply to Gansbaai has begun in earnest, and if all goes to plan the project will be completed by the middle of June this year.

The first two phases of the project were completed in 2010 and 2015 respectively.

The construction of the last phase comprises of more than 2 km of 355 mm diameter PVCO pipelines that runs to the main reservoir in Gansbaai.

The phased upgrade of the bulk water supply pipeline from the Franskraal Water Treatment Works to the Gansbaai main reservoir is needed to ensure that adequate volumes of treated water can be conveyed to Gansbaai to supply the growing population with water.

Notification of planned water interruptions will be communicated to residents at least 48 hours prior to closure of the valves concerned.

Please report all leaks to 028 313 8000/8090/ 8196/8157 and remember to ask for a reference number.

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28 March 2017

Municipality to adopt tree management policy

O

verstrand Council is expected to adopt an Urban Tree Policy during its March Council meeting this week, which will guide the management of trees located on land managed by the Municipality.

Overstrand Municipality promotes greening and tree planting, encourages proper protection and maintenance of existing trees (with the exception of invasive alien species) and will from now on try to maintain a set standard for the management of street trees in the Overstrand.

“There is no existing policy regarding the management of trees on municipal land within the Overstrand Municipality and as a result, ad hoc decisions are taken and no uniform set of standards are applied. It is therefore the purpose of this policy to ensure uniformity

regarding tree management in the region,” states the policy.

It further states that the planting of trees in the area must be promoted by the implementation of sustained planting programmes that include community participation, with emphasis on previously disadvantaged areas.

Preference is given to the planting of indigenous trees dependent on local conditions. This does not exclude the use of exotic species, provided they are non-invasive and more suited to local conditions. Species selected are of utmost importance in order to eliminate problems associated with the growth characteristics of certain tree species, for example damage resulting from aggressive root systems

and excessive height that might obstruct the view.

The policy also makes provision for guidelines for the planting of trees on pavements and the pruning or removal of trees. “Pruning or removal of all trees on municipal property will be done by the Overstrand Municipality and requests for pruning or removal of trees should be directed in writing to the Overstrand Management.

“Generally, trees are only to be pruned for sound arboricultural reasons. Pruning will however be considered where trees cause damage to structures, or obstruct pedestrian or vehicular access, impede traffic sight lines, where trees obstruct solar powered electricity and heating devices or cause excessive shedding of leaves, fruits, seeds or any other plant material to fall on sidewalks.

“While it is not denied that in

certain instances trees may form a nuisance to a property owner, pruning or removal of trees will not be considered (but not limited to these) for the following reasons: interference with radio/TV reception, allergic reactions, causing excessive shade, view obstruction (other than reducing visibility of traffic sight lines), obscuring private advertising boards and signs (other than public signage), causing a nuisance in respect of swimming pools, hampering the growth of other plants or the attraction of insects or birds (including bats) because of its flowers and/or fruit,” according to the policy.

Generally the Municipality does not have jurisdiction over trees planted on private property, but it is in favour of the planting of trees inside private property in townships,

as space on most sidewalks in its informal settlements is usually insufficient. However, only trees that are donated to the Municipality may be used for this purpose – provided that the property owner takes full responsibility for the maintenance of the trees concerned.

Should a tree on private property interfere with essential services such as visibility of motorists, pedestrian passage or a general nuisance, a notice can be served compelling the owner to attend to the offending tree. Should anyone get caught damaging or felling trees without permission or poisoning public trees, the respective area manager will decide whether to take action against the responsible party.

Usually this will be to claim damages which might result in hefty fines being issued or a criminal charge being laid.

28 March 2017

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Overberg Dance Eisteddfod

Participants from Hermanus who took part in the annual Overberg Dance Eisteddfod held at Hermanus High School during March reaped the rewards of their hard work as they walked away with a number of trophies. The dancers from Dance Edu Centre (above) won the trophy for Best Ensemble in the senior’s category. They were also awarded a R1 000 prize from Overstrand Arts/Kunste (OAK).

A SPOT OF COLOUR: The Village NEWS boasts a funky, brand-new sign on its front door thanks to the creative spirit of Adele van der Merwe (right) of Picasso Signs.

“I wanted to create something that reflects the newspaper and what it offers its readers, as well as the spirit of the dedicated and passionate staff. To me, The Village NEWS is a vibrant and colourful publication that not only tells a wide variety of stories but is also one of the best newspapers I have ever read,” she says. Publisher De Waal Steyn (left) says the signage fits perfectly with the character of the paper. “The staff are colourful people who are dedicated to the community we serve and we just love to stand out from the crowd.”

PHOTO: Rina de Wet

Helena Faurie and Aduné van Dyk from Linda Booyse Dance School won the senior’s trophy for Best Ballet Duet.

Helena was also awarded the trophy for Best Gr12 Dancer and Aduné won the trophy for Best Solo.

The Ballerina Dolls from Marina’s School of Dance was awarded the trophy for Best Junior Ballet Group (under 6 years).

Mela Ngokro, Amber Isaacs, Mariëtte Nel and Zoe van Rensburg from Dance Edu Centre won the trophy for Best Improvisation.

Catherine Africa, Amber Isaacs and Lara Arrison (dancers), and Zoe van Rensburg (choreography) won the trophy for Best Trio Contemporary, Own Choreography in the senior’s category.

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23 NEWS NEWS The US Masters Golf and the famous green jacket

T

he US Masters, commonly known as ‘The Masters’, will take place from 6 - 9 April at the Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, USA.

28 March 2017

Sport

The idea of forming this club originated with champion golfer, Bobby Jones. Pre Masters, he won all four majors in the same calendar year – 1930. The four majors at that time were the US Open and Amateur, and the British Open and Amateur.

Jones sought advice from Cliff Roberts, later to become chairman of the club. They came across a piece of land in Augusta, Georgia which had been an indigo plantation in the early 19th century and a plant nursery since 1857. Jones hired Alister MacKenzie, an architect, to help design the course, which was opened in 1933.

name ‘Masters’ was adopted.

The Masters is one of four major professional championships and, unlike the other three majors, is held each year in the same location, in Augusta, Georgia.

The first Augusta National Invitational Tournament was played in 1934 and in 1939 the

The tournament has a number of traditions. Since 1949, a green jacket has been formally

By Tony O’Hagan

awarded to the champion, who must return it to the clubhouse one year after his victory, although it remains his personal property and is stored with other champions' jackets in a specially designated cloakroom. A golfer who wins the event multiple times uses the same green jacket awarded upon his initial win (unless he needs to be refitted with a new jacket).

The first recipient of the formally awarded green jacket was Sam Snead in 1949, although informally acquired by champions for many years before that.

One of the exceptions to the rule of the green jacket remaining at the club, was our own Gary Player, who in his joy of winning mistakenly took the jacket home to South Africa after his victory in 1961 (although he has always followed the spirit of the rule and has never worn the jacket).

By tradition, the winner of the previous year's Masters puts the green jacket on the current winner at the end of the tournament. Of late, winners in consecutive years (Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods) had the jackets put on by the club chairman.

In addition to the green jacket the winner receives a gold medal and a sterling silver replica of the Masters Trophy, plus prize money.

The Champions' Dinner, inaugurated by Ben Hogan in 1952, is held on the Tuesday before each tournament and is open to past champions and certain board members of the Augusta National Golf Club. The defending champion, as host, selects the menu for the dinner.

Some interesting choices have included: haggis (Sandy Lyle), bobotie (Trevor Immelman), Wiener schnitzel (Bernhard Langer) and fish and chips (Nick Faldo).

As the golf course was formerly a plant nursery, each hole is named after the tree or shrub with which it has become associated. Examples of this are Flowering Peach (3rd hole), Magnolia (5th), Carolina Cherry (9th), Azalia (13th) and Holly (18th).

Jack Nicklaus has the most Masters wins (6), followed by Arnold Palmer and Tiger Woods (4 each), while Gary Player has 3 wins with a few others on that number, but Gary was the first non-American to win this coveted title.

CHAMPIONS The Overberg kickboxing team took part in the Western Cape Kickboxing Championships on 25 March. The Overberg team did very well. Members of Legacy Martial Arts Academy won 10 medals (5 gold, 2 silver, 3 bronze). Here are at the back Miguell Boshoff (2 gold), Shihan Ruehan van Romburgh (2 gold) and Tiaan van der Westhuizen (2 bronze) and in front Ruben Minnie (silver), Michael Coetzee (4th place), Gideon du Randt (bronze) and Devine January (gold and silver). The next step for the medallists will be the South African Kickboxing Championships.

Charl Schwartzel received his green jacket after winning The Masters in 2011.

Other South African winners include Trevor Immelman (2008) and Charl Schwartzel (2011). The latter two will tee up with Ernie Els, Louis Oosthuizen and Branden Grace as the South African contingent and vying for a share of the prize pool of around $10m. Good wishes to our boys!

Gary Player was the first non-American to win The Masters in 1961.

Trevor Immelman got to wear the green jacket in 2009.

28 March 2017

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Schools Matrics of Hermanus High dine in style

The matrics of Hermanus High School held their annual formal Dinner on Saturday 25 March at The Class Room in The Village. The learners were dressed to the nines for what is one of the highlights on the matric social calendar. The evening included a three-course dinner prepared by Chef Kevin Warwick and his team.

Every year since 1991, Hermanus High matrics have had the privilege to attend the annual dinner that is aimed at teaching them the proper etiquette to follow at formal functions.

They were served by 18 dads who practiced their waitering skills after a crash course in service training.

GENEROSITY The coaches and players of Curro Hermanus’ U13 rugby team recently had the opportunity to thank their sponsors for the year. Here are Cillie Hamman (Onrus Garage); Manie Theron (Theron Bros); Jane Grindley Ferris (Solitaire Free Range Eggs); Mike Bayer (The Beanery), Francois Eloff (Santam); Sebastian Winter; Chritiaan Bernardß; Daniel Cornell; Marnus Prinsloo; Erik Eldring; Josh Grindly Ferris; Luke Kavanagh; Tiernan Ras; Christiaan Papenfus; Sean Smit (Kia Motors); Tertius Bruwer (team manager); Delray Janse van Rensburg (Phase Head), Gustav van Wyk (coach); Rossouw Hamman; Alex Swingler; Tiaan Eldring; Melusi Chakuchichi; Civanu Swarts; Indiphile Dywili; Iwann Vorster and Luca Cornell.

TOP NOTCH The SA JKA Western Cape Tournament was hosted earlier this month at the Sandbaai Hall. The event serves as the final selection for the Western Province JKA team that will take part at Nationals in May. The national tournament will decide the national team going to the Gichin Funakoshi Cup to be held in Ireland in August. The team members from SA JKA Hermanus Dojo that made the WP team selection are (back row): N Gillion, C Fortune, C Haskell, S Qotyana, W de Swart, B Govender, C Knott and R Brown. Front row: C Saayman, J Bezuidenhout, C Gruss, A Boshoff, P Nokwe, N Jantjies, K Roos and J Streicher.

Members not present: Elana Coetzee, Mignon Van Zyl, Johan van Zyl, Joshua Bryant-Mostert.

PHOTO: Leijla Steyn