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Page 2 DA Cleans Clinic Garden

Page 3 Standard Bank Centenary

Page 22 Q&A: Optometrist Kevin Hill

FRANSCHHOEK’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER AND ADVERTISER SINCE 1994 • DECEMBER 2018

Bonne Santé For Land Claimants?

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Proposed site layout and entrance facility

The environmental authorisation application for a mixed-use development on erf 1692 has publicly exposed rifts in the Franschhoek Claimants’ Trust (FCT) that owns the property and has given permission to Surrey Holmes Developments (Pty) Ltd to subdivide and develop the site.

According to a submission by the Franschhoek Concerned Claimants Group (FCCG) contained in the environmental authorisation application and signed by former Stellenbosch speaker Gordon Pheiffer, Erf 1692 – located at the eastern end of Reservoir Street above the Franschhoek Tennis Club – was given to Franschhoek land claimants by Stellenbosch Municipality. Three hectares of the original 5 ha site was subsequently sold to the developers of the Fransche Hoek Estate for R1.2 million.

The FCCG contends that the meeting where Surrey Holmes Developments was given permission to develop the site was unconstitutional and the resulting decisions invalid. They also claim that some M of the R1.2 million has been squandered and/or Y misappropriated and have asked for an investigation.

CM The preferred development alternative consideredMYin the Basic Assessment Report (BAR) provides for 28 single residential erven, three CY general residential erven, a general business erf CMY and two open space erven. Because of the irregular K shape of some erven in the area, the part of the site identified as a general business erf is on what is currently generally thought of as the Franschhoek Tennis Club’s parking area.

In addition to the issues relating to the FCT, other key issues and concerns raised in the public participation process were related to the project’s potential impacts on resources, service provision, sense of place / visual impacts and biodiversity impacts.

Heritage Western Cape has indicated “that

there is no reason to believe that the proposed development will impact on heritage resources.”

Cape Nature does not support the development and is not in agreement with the conclusions reached by the botanical specialist retained by the developer. According to Cape Nature the site consists of critically endangered Swartland Alluvium Fynbos (SAF). According to the botanical specialist “the site is ecotonal – representing a transitional vegetation type between SAF and Boland Granite Fynbos (BGF) – with no species of conservation concern identified on the site.”

Cape Nature is also of the view that the botanical assessment was not done at an optimal time of year for species identification and that the site is of sufficient size to be viably conserved – including controlled burns. The botanical expert disagrees with Cape Nature on both these issues.

The developer’s environmental authorisation application states that “The proposed development can be viewed as desirable for a number of reasons relating to the location (within the urban edge) and type of development (mixed-use). The development promotes spatial efficiency through compaction as opposed to sprawl; mixed-use as opposed to mono-functional land uses; residential areas close to work opportunities as opposed to dormitory settlement, and prioritisation of public transport over private car use.”

Text: Editorial Desk | Images: BAR by Khula Environmental

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2 | December 2018

Franschhoek Theatre Open For Business On the evening of 6 November guests gathered at the new Franschhoek Theatre in the Franschhoek High School grounds. The team in charge of the project had invited donors to the project for a celebration. Also in attendance were the principal of the school, Mr Cilliers, and the school’s governing body.

After more than two years of planning, authorisations, design, building and renovation, the Centenary Library building was ready for its new life. The guests who had come to celebrate were enchanted by the grey and blue interior, the re-laid old parquet floor and new carpeted seating tiers, the spruced up shutters and the brand new amenities.

The project team thanked the donors who had so generously supported the fund-raising initiatives which enabled them to realise a Franschhoek community dream. Mr Denver Adonis, the chairman of the school governing body also thanked everyone involved and pointed out that the school did not have the means to renovate and save the building.

He added that the benefit to the school, both financially and culturally would be most valuable.

Guests tried out the seats as they viewed a music video on the wonderfully large screen, wandered down the passage to inspect the bathrooms, admired the wall with the inscribed teak tiles and chatted excitedly over glasses of complimentary wine as they planned future theatre outings.

The Franschhoek Theatre is a multi-purpose venue for cultural events of all kinds and small

conferences. The facility also houses the historic school archive, with many interesting articles from the collection forming part of the décor.

The theatre uses the Franschhoek Wine Valley tourism information office at 62 Huguenot Street (above Franschhoek Pharmacy) as its ticketing office. A monthly programme is also available here.

Patrons who wish to receive the programme by email are asked to please sign up for the theatre newsletter via the theatre’s website. www.franschhoektheatre.co.za | 021 876 2861 (FWV) Text & Image: Editorial Desk

Lower Water Tariffs in Time for Christmas Level 2 Tariffs, but Level 5 Restrictions The Stellenbosch Municipal Council gave consumers an early Christmas present when it adopted reduced water tariffs at its October meeting. The reduced rate will be effective from the November billing run, which is payable in early December. The council’s decision lowered the current domestic water tariff from the 40% water restriction tariff back down to the 20% water restriction tariff.

Executive mayor, Adv. Gesie van Deventer, said: “The decision was taken in light of the improved water situation in the province and the difficult economic conditions affecting many of our residents.”

The Western Cape was declared a disaster area by national government as a result of the protracted drought. Stellenbosch Municipality had to reduce its water consumption by 45%. This was achieved in a number of ways, including a war on leaks programme, pressure management, installation of demand management devices and punitive tariff increases for large water consumers. Numerous boreholes were also drilled.

Good winter rains that brought the average level of dams in the Western Cape Water Supply System to above 75% made it possible for water restrictions to be relaxed. Level 5 water restrictions however remain in force.

The tariffs up to 18Kl were lowered and cater for at least 70 litres per person per day – in line with level 5 restrictions.

For example a household of 8 people using 70

litres per person per day for 30 days, thus consuming 16,8 Kl for the month will pay 39,2% less after November with the new tariffs. (This calculation is based on the new rates and is excluding VAT and the basic charge.)

The lower water tariffs are certainly good news for battered consumers, but a bit more rain would probably not be sneezed at either.

Text & Image: Editorial Desk

Bridgehouse School Grade 3 Pupils Learn About Leopards The Cape Leopard Trust (CLT) is a conservation organisation founded in 2004. Its focus is scientific research and environmental education offering experiential learning programmes in the Boland and the Cederberg.

On a fine and rather warm day in October, the Cape Leopard Trust environmental education team took a group of 24 grade 3 learners from Bridge House School for an educational hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve in the mountains above Franschhoek.

Part of the CLT’s environmental education programme is to raise awareness around protecting natural habitats and minimising the threats facing biodiversity; not just here in the Western Cape, but in the rest of the world. It is especially important to conduct our environmental education work in areas where people are living so close to the mountains and to leopard habitat. Increasing development means that there are fewer green buffers between human and wildlife habitat, which can ultimately lead to human-wildlife conflict.

These grade 3 pupils had previously raised money for a camera-trap for the CLT, and this outing was a chance for them to see first-hand how our research is done. We hiked with them to our camera trap and repositioned it in another location. They learned about camera-trap research, biodiversity in the Cape Mountains, food webs and food chains, pollinators, endemic fauna and flora species, water catchment areas as well as many other topics. “We learnt why we need to protect our leopards and what they help to do in the ecosystem”, says Hugh, a grade 3 learner from Bridge House who attended the outing.

Leopards are the apex predators in the Cape mountains and it is vital for people to understand that the leopard has an important role in ecosystem functioning, because as top predators they maintain a healthy and natural balance. The CLT uses the rare Cape mountain leopard as a flagship species to highlight broader environmental issues.

The Cape Leopard Trust recently took 24 Grade 3 learners from Bridge House School on an educational hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve.

The Cape Leopard Trust is an active predator conservation working group in the Cape. It uses research as a tool for conservation, to find solutions to human-wildlife conflict and to inspire interest in the environment through an interactive and dynamic environmental education programme.

The CLT Environmental Education Project facilitates experiences in nature that change the way young people see themselves, and the environment. Our aim is to educate and empower young people by connecting them with the natural world. Wilderness camps, day outings and ecoclub experiences are available to all schools, youth groups and organisations. Content is uniquely created to help educators with the complex subject of learning for sustainable development. www.capeleopard.org.za Text: Catherine Kühn | Image: CLT

DA Cleans Clinic Garden

DA members and councillors cleaned up the overgrown garden of the Groendal Clinic on Friday, 26 October. Working in 40-degree heat the group filled nearly a dozen black bags with weeds uprooted from the garden. Ward 2 Councillor and Speaker Minnie Petersen (Ward 2) said: “It is a pleasure for us as public representatives to serve our community, not only through our work in council, but also by being a pro-active force for good in our communities.” In the photo above, FLTR, Cllr Petersen, Rachel Pearce, Cllr Aldridge Frazenburg and Simpiwe Nomnqa collect the last of the uprooted weeds.

December 2018 | 3

Standard Bank Celebrates 100 Years In Franschhoek!

The Standard Bank of South Africa’s opening a branch in Franschhoek on 13 November 1918 was the result of a misunderstanding and the first few decades may have been difficult, but on the centenary of the opening clients and staff were glad that it all worked out well in the end.

During WWI South Africa’s banks agreed not to open any new branches until the conclusion of peace. Rumours, however, emerged that the National Bank wasn’t going to wait for peace and was going to open a branch in Franschhoek on the day after the signing of the armistice on 11 November 1918. The branch managers of both the African Banking Corporation (ABC) and Standard’s Paarl branches were sent to Franschhoek the next day with the instruction to immediately open branches should the National do so.

12 November 1918 was declared a public holiday, so the Standard’s Paarl branch manager, JR du Prè, arrived in the village on the thirteenth. To his surprise there was no National Bank branch, but ABC had opened a branch that morning in order to forestall the National. Du Prè immediately followed

suit and opened a Standard Bank branch – making use of temporary accommodation in a hotel.

The bank’s first building was especially constructed for them by H L Pepler, from whom they purchased it for 750 pounds in May 1919. In November 1920 Standard Bank and ABC amalgamated and the ABC branch closed on 31 December 1920.

The first three decades were difficult, with the office generally running at a loss. As a result its status alternated between agency and sub-branch. Pressure from inhabitants eventually led to it becoming a full branch on 1 August 1948. The original building was replaced by the current one in 1957.

To celebrate their centenary staff welcomed clients with a festive drink and cupcakes. (The Tatler suspects that the big cake was to be enjoyed by staff after closing!) Outside the branch festive flags and a vintage car decked out in Standard Bank livery showed that it wasn’t just business as usual that day.

Standard Bank’s original building photographed in 1935.

Text: Editorial Desk Images: Standard Bank, Editorial Desk

A vintage car and corporate banners showed that it was a special day for Standard Bank Franschhoek.

Mayoral Committee Shuffled The Municipal Systems Act makes provision for the executive mayor to appoint a number of mayoral committee members to advise her and assist her with the execution of her duties. At the October 2018 council meeting Mayor Gesie van Deventer informed the council that she had decided to reshuffle her mayoral committee.

Mayor van Deventer said the following about the • Rural Management and Tourism – Councillor changes, “With the recently revised organogram Salie Peters of the municipality, the changing needs of local • Community and Safety Services – Councillor government within Stellenbosch, the growth Jan de Villiers of skills amongst the councillors since 2016, the • Infrastructure – Councillor Quintin Smit appointment of the previous chief whip, Minnie The Corporate Services portfolio is still vacant, Pietersen, to the Speaker’s chair as well as the but according to the mayor the process to fill the need to transfer more skills to councillors, I vacancy is underway. recently decided to change the composition of As a consequence of the reshuffle long-standing my mayoral committee. mayoral committee members Councillors The new mayoral committee is as follows: Aldridge Frazenburg (Community Development • Financial Services – Councillor Patricia Crawley and Community Services) and Johannie Serdyn • Parks, Open Spaces and Environment – (Planning and Economic Development) return Councillor Xoliswa Mdemka to being part-time councillors.

Councillors • Planning and Local Economic Development – Patricia Crawley and Manie Pietersen are the new Councillor Esther Groenewald members of the committee.

• Youth, Sports and Culture – Councillor Manie HC Tatler Ad Best Restaurant F.pdf 1 2018/11/15 9:57 AM Pietersen Text: Editorial Desk

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4 | December 2018

FRANSCHHOEK VALLEY IN ASSOCIATION WITH “LES VIGNERONS DE FRANSCHHOEK”

Chamonix Pinot Noir Reserve 2016 The Chamonix Pinot Noir Reserve shows a ruby red colour, with notes of cherry, wild red berries, crushed black pepper and violets on the nose. Although firm in structure and intense in flavour, textures are mellow and round, expanding with time to extraordinary opulence and length on the palate. It should reach its prime in about 5-8 years after release.

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Apple & cranberry smoked quail, sea salt meringue, pickled beetroot, crispy pancetta Yield 4 INGREDIENTS Smoked Quail 80g smoking chips; 2 deboned quail portioned Apple & Cranberry Glaze 100g granny smith apples, peeled and chopped; 45g onions, chopped; 2g ginger, finely chopped; 1/4tsp. crushed peppercorns; 50gr granulated sugar; 25ml white wine vinegar; 50ml water; 50g dried cranberries Sea Salt Meringue 70g egg white; 35g sugar; 10kg maldon salt; Pickled beetroot; 100g baby beets, scrubbed; 1 cups apple cider vinegar; 125ml water; 1 tablespoons kosher salt; 1⁄2 teaspoon allspice berries; 1⁄4 teaspoon; black peppercorns; 1 star anise pod; 1 cinnamon stick Pancetta 20g sliced Pancetta

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METHOD For the quail: Line a tray with tinfoil, place smoking chips on it and set alight. Place quail on cooling rack, place on top of tray and cover with foil. Allow to smoke for 10 min. Remove quail. On serving brush with apple glaze and roast at 180°C for 8 min.

For the apple and cranberry glaze: Place all ingredients EXCEPT cranberries in a saucepan. Heat gently, uncovered, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer until tender, add cranberries and simmer for 10 min. Cool, blend until fine and refrigerate.

For the meringue: Whisk the egg white until foamy and add the sugar slowly until soft peaks form, place in a piping bag ready for use For the beetroot: Trim beets and place in a large nonreactive pot, cover with water and

boil until just tender. Strain and rinse. Once cool, remove skins and set aside. Prepare brine by bringing vinegar, water, salt to a boil.

Place allspice, peppercorns, star anise and cinnamon into a bowl. Cut the beetroots in half and tightly pack into the bowl. Pour boiling brine over beets, and fully cover with liquid. Cool and store in the fridge overnight.

For the Pancetta: Place the Pancetta on a

tray, place in the oven at 180°C until crispy, To plate Pipe a line of meringue onto the plate.

Sprinkle the maldon salt over the meringue and blow torch. Space the quail onto the meringue, along with the halved pickled beetroot and top with crispy Pancetta. End off with a few pea shoots and shaved radish for an elegant feel

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ANSWER THIS EASY QUESTION! Which Franschhoek bank recently celebrated its centenary?

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December 2018 | 5

Platter’s by Diners Club 2019 South African Wine Guide Launched

Cellar Chat Mark Tanner

I was recently in England visiting family and friends. I spent a couple of days in Gloucestershire with Ron and PJ (who would like to be remembered by those who knew them here). It was while with them that I experienced two of the highlights of my trip. The first was to walk to the source of the river Thames which is 294 km from London, however, as they live only about 2km away it was an easy exercise.

The second was to attend a tasting of New Zealand wines with the Cirencester Wine Society. New Zealand has often, and correctly, been likened to Germany as a wine growing region. This is never more evident than at Otago on the south island which has the southernmost vineyards on the planet.

Never before had I experienced such a comprehensive and detailed talk covering everything from which clone to plant through to how to design an eye-catching lable (on the assumption that restaurant table clothes are white).

David Pratt founded Ata Mara Estate in central Otago in 2003. 16Ha of vines include 60% Pinot Noir with 40% devoted to Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling and, surprise (?), Gruner Veltliner from Austria. All cool climate varieties.

Ata Mara is situated at 45 degrees south at the extreme southern edge of the winemaking world and David’s wines showed the results of limited sunshine and, correspondingly, adapted vineyard management. Interestingly, at harvest, David flies in labour from tropical Vanuatu in the Fiji Island group. They then muffle up with gloves, scarves and anoraks as they work the vines.

But, what are these wines like? First on the block was a 2015 Sauvignon Blanc which David introduced as having intense flavours and aromas.

I found none of this. The colour was so pale it could have been water but with a total acid of 6.8 g/l it at least had a tingling bite, but pale, very pale. Next was a 2014 Pinot Gris which for me failed to produce David’s “Floral aromas and exotic spices on the palate”. Sharp acids prevailed and I wondered what on earth one would pair these wines with? Maybe a

The Platter’s by Diners Club South African Wine Guide 2019 was launched at Cape Town’s Table Bay Hotel in early November 2018. Franschhoek producers shared in some of the top accolades.

terminally frightened flounder or a naked hake? It would seem that south Otago lacked braais.

Incidentally, at around R170 a bottle, they were well priced by UK standards. Their 2015 Pinot Gris at last had some colour. Pale straw, and, as David mentioned, “Full of life with a purity of balance that is very appealing”. And so it continued through the 2016 Riesling, improving in nose, palate and finish to the final two wines.

A 2013 Pinot Noir which showed refined flavours and classic Pinot characteristics, while we finished with a 2015 Pinot Noir that actually hit the spot.

Not yet released it showed bags of promise. A wine made from half Clone 667 with the balance from Clone 777 and a small portion of Clone 115, each Clone individually batch fermented with whole bunches included – just to give you some idea of the complex winemaking hurdles involved.

Redemption at last. These two wines won Decanter magazine Golds and for me made the evening, even at R243 each they were not badly priced.

David lives in England for half the year. As a vigneron he is kept in daily touch with progress in Otago thanks to modern communication technology. His production is limited and his wines will not be found on high street shelves. Rather seek them out in fashionable UK restaurants.

Forgetting any frightened fish for the moment, the first wines would no doubt complement sautéed chicken (with mushrooms?) and the last could be well matched with game birds. In all a great experience and a reminder that we have Elgin just beyond the pass.

This year a total of 90 wines achieved the coveted five star status – reserved for “South African classics” scored 95 points or more on the internationally recognised 100-point scale.

This edition, the ultimate Platter’s accolade – Winery of the Year – has expanded to become a trio of awards. The Newcomer Winery of the Year recognises the winery that records the best results as a first-time participant in the guide. This honour goes to Erika Obermeyer Wines with two five stars on debut. The Top Performing Winery of the Year award goes to Mullineux; who are no strangers to Platter’s accolades, having twice previously been Winery of the Year. In the new guide they achieve a remarkable four five stars plus a Wine of the Year. In addition the Leeu Passant Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2016 from their Franschhoek venture with Analjit Singh was also awarded five stars and Wine of the Year. Finally, the Editor’s Award for 2019 goes to Newton Johnson Vineyards, as editor Philip van Zyl’s personal commendation of this family venture’s consistently superb quality over a range of styles of wine.

In a further innovation, the number of Wines of the Year has also been increased. The line-up now reflects the highest-scoring five star wines in their category (or, in instances where wines were tied with the highest scores, the judging panels’ preferred wine).

Another first in this edition is the introduction of 100-point scores, printed alongside the familiar “Platter’s Stars”, for the recently tasted wines. JeanPierre Rossouw comments: “100-point scoring is the global standard, and by combining this notation with our own long-standing star-rating system, we hope that our international readers in particular will better understand and contextualise our judges’ assessments. We see the two rating

systems coexisting in the guide in the future.”

The Five Star Wines and Wines of the Year from Franschhoek producers in Platter’s South African Wine Guide 2019 are: • Allée Bleue L’Amour Toujours 2014 (Cape Bordeaux Blend) • Plaisir de Merle Signature 2012 (Cape Bordeaux Blend | Wine of the Year) • Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2017 (Red Blend with Syrah) • Leeu Passant Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2016 (Wine of the Year) • Rickety Bridge Road to Santiago Semillon 2016 (Wine of the Year) • Colmant Absolu Zero Dosage NV (Méthode Cap Classique) Text: Editorial Desk | Images: Supplied

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December 2018 | 7

Protégé Ready to Spread Its Culinary Wings The former Garden Room and Bar at Leeu Collection’s Le Quartier Français boutique hotel has emerged from a lengthy renovation in the guise of Protégé – an exciting new casual-style eatery under the guidance of previous Eat Out Chef of the Year, La Colombe’s Scot Kirton.

Scot is proud to be part of the process of recognising young talented chefs and giving them the opportunity to put themselves on the map. The restaurant’s name reflects this.

Stephen Raaff heads the kitchen team with Rebecca Warner overseeing the front-of-house.

Stephen has been part of the La Colombe group since 2013 and has been involved at both La Colombe and Foxcroft restaurants in Constantia, working closely with both Scot and Glen Williams, Chef Proprietor of Foxcroft.

Rebecca started working with Scot in 2009 in the kitchen of the River Café at Constantia Uitsig Wine Estate. A few years later she made the switch to frontof-house at La Colombe and has never looked back.

Scot describes the Protégé experience as casual, comfortable and very much one that the locals can call ‘home’. His philosophy and approach to food lies

in the fusion of Asian and French cuisine and the pursuit of excellence and perfection on each plate, resulting in numerous local and international awards.

The menu is based on an à la carte offering where guests are free to select as many or as few courses as they desire. Stephen will be working with local suppliers to keep the menu as fresh and as seasonal as possible.

“The opening of Protégé excites me,” says Kirton.

“It’s all about the freshest local produce used in the simplest of ways – it’s comfort food I cook at home. I could not be prouder of having Stephen lead the team. He has given me so much over the years and now it’s time for me to help him achieve his dreams.”

The restaurant space has been designed around the central show kitchen with al fresco dining planned at both ends of the restaurant. Interior

design was under the careful watch of Rotem Shachar and Megan Bond.

“Food and beverage in the hotel and hospitality sphere has evolved to the point where hotel guests must be offered a unique The interior of Protégé Restaurant features a central show kitchen. and top-class dining experience and choice as part of their overall guest 10h00, for lunch from 12h00-14h30 and for dinner experience. Protégé will complete the Le Quartier from 17h30-20h30. Hotel guests at Le Quartier Français transformation that has been ongoing for Français will enjoy breakfast as part of their room rate. the past year,” says Analjit Singh, founder of the Leeu www.protegerestaurant.co.za | (021) 224 0801 Collection.

Protégé will be open for breakfast from 07h00-

C ILQAUS UAER · L I LY P O N D V I L L A R E S TA U R A N T · C A P CCAL P ASS E SCIEQL L

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or join us for a delicious slice of one of our speciality cakes.

Please make your reservation at Orangerie Restaurant for Lunch, High Tea The Tasting Room is open for Cap Classique tastings, canapés and sales. or join us for a delicious slice of one of our speciality cakes.

The Tasting Room TASTINGS is open for Cap Classique tastings, canapés and sales. · LUNCH · HIGH TEA Mon-Sun 10:00-17:00 TASTINGS · LUNCH · HIGH TEA Mon-Sun 10:00-17:00 Orangerie Restaurant 021 100 3464 Lude Cellar 021 100 3465 Le Lude Cellar 021 Le 100 3465 · Orangerie Restaurant 021 100 3464 Lambrechts Road Road Franschhoek Franschhoek Lambrechts info@lelude.co.za ·· www.lelude.co.za www.lelude.co.za info@lelude.co.za

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

8 | December 2018

In ‘13 Questions’ the Tatler combines the serious with the silly. We start by posing our subjects ten random questions from our ever-growing database. They then get to ask themselves a question, before the interview concludes with two questions from the editor.

with Robyn Kadis: Owner of the Franschhoek Adventure Centre Drink of choice?

That’s an easy one… I enjoy a glass of wine. Lovely dry blush rose in summer and good full-bodied red in winter.

The thing that is bad for you that you will never stop eating?

Oh bread! I love bread but it is terrible for my waistline.

Two role models?

It might seem like a cliché nowadays, but Nelson Mandela. I am in awe of his ability to forgive and move on to create a better future for all (although as we know, this dream of his has not been sustained). I learned forgiveness from him. Martha Stewart is probably also a role model for me. She started with nothing at all and built an enormous empire which continues to grow. Yes, she did time for insider trading, but I believe her when she says she was relying on the advice of her financial people and don’t hold that against her. Everyone makes mistakes; we should not be defined by them, particularly if they are not intentional. Let he who never sins cast the first stone…

The strangest place you’ve ever been to & what you did there?

I have been to quite a few strange places over the years but in this story it is not so much the place, but what I was doing there. I lived in Egypt for 2 years and during that time took a trip with the local church to a few monasteries on a particular Saint’s feast day. One of the places we visited was St Damiana Convent where the Priest in charge of the trip for the day insisted that I get a “salib”. This is a tattoo of a Coptic Cross on the inside of one’s wrist and something that almost every Christian Egyptian has. They usually get it when they are children and it is a public acknowledgment of their faith, especially relevant when living in a Muslim country. It took 10 seconds to do and was extremely painful, but I do not regret it for a

moment.

Your biggest fear?

Oh no, don’t ask that. If I say it out loud it will happen!

Where did you go to school?

So many places. I am a gypsy and have lived in more places than I care to remember, but school started in Windhoek, then to the Cape (Boston Primary, Brackenfell Primary, Brackenfell High and De Villiers Graaff in Villiersdorp). I finished high school and matriculated at Clapham High School in Pretoria.

What do you do in your spare time?

I used to spend most of my time outdoors and bird-watching until it became my job. Now I spend most of my spare time socialising with my friends in the village because I do the things I would normally do in my spare time as a job, so get to do it all the time! I’m lucky that way.

Do you collect anything? Why? I’ve been a collector all my life. As a child I loved paper and collected all kinds of stationery. I also collected stamps (SA, Namibia and British mostly) which is a passion I shared with my father. Now I mostly collect “fieldifacts”, interesting items I find in the field when out doing my bird research. I have a rather large collection of animal skulls that I have picked up over the years. I can’t resist an interesting skull!

If you were given R50 000 right now how would you spend it?

I am not a materialistic person; I’d rather spend it on an experience than a thing. I would book a ticket to Scotland and maybe have enough over for a few nights in a hotel, to see my kids. It’s a long overdue visit, but I might wait to see if the exchange rate improves at all.

Most embarrassing song or artist in your music collection?

Might not be that embarrassing, but it would

be Ben 10 by Early B. Not my usual type of music but has some significance in my life, as those who are familiar with the song and know me well will understand.

Do you have a bucket list?

Absolutely and earlier this year I had a huge tick by going to Vic Falls and making it to the “Angel’s Pool” on the Zambian side (Devil’s pool was not accessible due to the huge amount of water flowing at the time). It was a scary, but thrilling experience to sit on the edge of the falls in the rushing water.

I’m about to tick another item on the list when I go Hot Air Ballooning in a few days’ time. I can’t wait. Biggest tick is to go to Papua New Guinea to see the Birds of Paradise. They are spectacular and it’s an absolute must-do for a birdy person like me.

You’re a serious birder. What draws you to birding and what’s been your birding highlight?

Birds are the most amazing creatures. Incredibly beautiful, so clever and resourceful. What’s not to love? Wherever you go in the world, no matter what the environment, you will find birds. You are never bored when you are constantly looking for birds. My highlight would be finding a Palmnut Vulture on the beach at Mtunzini on the East coast after searching for it in the Raffia forest for hours.

How did the Franschhoek Adventure Centre come about and what services does it offer?

On my travels around Southern Africa, I found that most tourist towns have an Adventure Centre and knew that Franschhoek needed one too. It would also serve as a base for my Franschhoek Adventures tours. We are a onestop activity booking centre which means our visitors can come and find out about every activity happening during their stay and we book them and provide transfers if needed.

Most visitors do not know about the less obvious events such as music concerts, special dinners with chefs & winemakers, movie nights, etc.

We also tell them about free events that they might enjoy such as the various markets. We have our in-house transport company, Absolute Transfers, on the premises for their convenience.

Our centre also has a Memento shop where they can purchase gifts and souvenirs made by local Franschhoek residents. In our Tourist Hub, we have a large screen with a video showcasing all the activities available. The visitors can relax, use the free Wi-Fi, charge devices, have a coffee and enjoy cake made by our local home bakers.

FRANSCHHOEK’S SPECIALIST PAINT SHOP We stock a full range of Midas, environmentally friendly paints (water and oil based) and Earthcote specialised, textured trowel-on and brush-on products for wall and floor surfaces (300 colours to choose from).

We also stock waterproofing products, Plascon water and oil based paints. Hamilton’s paint brushes, rollers, crack fillers, sand paper, masking and buff tapes, turpentine, lacquer thinners and putty. For DIY enthusiasts, we stock ladders, overalls, drop-sheets and paint trays.

All textures and colours are on show in our showroom.

Pop in and have a coffee with us, whilst leisurely selecting your paints and colours.

For FREE technical advice, specifications and quotations contact Paul 082 567 6162 Operating in the Franschhoek Valley Community Sport Centre, Franschhoek. In partnership with Hope through Action and Score.

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December 2018 | 9

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CO N S C I O U S LI VI N G

10 | December 2018

Accolades for Le Lude

Prescient Chardonnay Report

Boutique MCC producer, Le Lude, is having a very good 2018. No stranger to acclaim, the property is basking in praise from two of the wine world’s more influential writers – the UK’s Tim Atkin and SA’s Tim James.

La Bri’s Chardonnay 2017 shared top honours in Winemag.co.za’s annual Prescient Chardonnay Report when the results were announced in mid-October.

When Tim Atkin’s much anticipated 2018 South Africa special report was released Le Lude could hardly have done any better. Le Lude’s Magnum Vintage Cuvée 2012 was not only judged to be the top sparkling wine with 96 out of 100 points, but that was also enough to earn it the status of ‘South Africa’s Sparkling Wine Producer of the Year’ in the highly regarded report.

Tim said “Le Lude is fast becoming the leader of sparkling wine in the South Africa and the New World.”

Le Lude’s other wines also fared well, with all of them earning more than 90 points. The wines and their scores are as follows: Le Lude Agrafé Brut 2012 (95 points) Le Lude Brut NV (93 points) Le Lude Magnum Vintage Brut 2012 (93 points) Le Lude Magnum Vintage Cuvée Agrafé 2012 (94 points) Le Lude Magnum Vintage Rosé (93 points) Meanwhile Tim James in his list of ‘SA’s Top Newish

Wineries’ ranked Le Lude joint second, along with another local winery, Leeu Passant Wines. James included Le Lude in his ‘newish’ list as their first vintage wines were only released last year and described them as a “brilliant sparkling wine specialist”.

Le Lude also received a score of 92 points for its Brut NV at the International Decanter Competition.

This competition is open for Champagne, Cava, Franciacorta and Sparkling Wines.

Le Lude winemaker, Paul Gerber, is a member of Les Chevaliers de L’Arc - Le Mesnil sur Oger – a champenoise organisation for the care and promotion of Champagne and Chardonnay. This rare honour certainly makes him a standout in MCC circles.

With such accolades to celebrate the Le Lude team certainly has enough reason to open a bottle of two of their products!

The organisers say that the report – compiled

by SA wine critic Christian Eedes and a panel of expert wine judges – highlighted two key facts: “South Africa’s ability to produce exceptional Chardonnays across multiple regions and the category’s continuing increase in quality.”

A record number of 117 entries were received, with several regions represented among the top 24 wines. Ten were from Stellenbosch, six were from Elgin, three were from the greater Hemelen-Aarde area, two from Franschhoek, one from Constantia, one from Darling and one was a multi-regional blend.

The five wines that topped the rankings, each with a score of 94/100, were: Delaire Terraced Block Reserve 2016, La Bri 2017, Le Riche 2017, Meerlust 2017 and Paul Cluver Seven Flags 2017.

Report author Eedes indicated that the overall quality of the entries was outstanding, with the average score being 89.9/100. “This would suggest that local Chardonnay is not in some mysterious state of stagnation but rather going from strength to strength,” Eedes said in his report.

The second Franschhoek wine in the top two dozen was Môreson’s Dr. Reason Why 2017.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Supplied

www.lelude.co.za

2018 Eat Out MercedesTerbodore Sparkling Cold Brew Benz Restaurant Awards Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Le Lude

Franschhoek coffee favourite Terbodore Coffee Roasters has launched South Africa’s first sparkling cold brew coffee – in three flavours.

“We feel the time is right to introduce this amazing product to the market,” says co-owner Michael Macaskill. “We’re exploring the many possibilities of coffee and this is one of them.”

Terbodore’s Sparkling Cold Brew features three main components. The first is cold brew coffee, i.e. ground coffee that’s immersed in cold water for around 12 hours and then filtered. “The result is a smooth, low acidity coffee with a natural sweetness,” says Macaskill. The coffee roaster is using their flagship coffee blend – The Great Dane – to create the cold brew.

The cold brew is then blended with the second component – carbonated mountain spring water – before the third component – the natural flavourants – are added to create the ready-to-drink beverages.

The beverage is available in three, thirst quenching flavours: Marula, Lemonade and Honeybush & Orange. The beverages are already available for preorder from the Terbodore Coffee Roasters website.

www.terbodorecoffee.co.za/shop Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Terbodore Coffee Roasters

The 2018 Eat Out Mercedes-Benz Restaurant Awards were presented on Sunday, 18 November, during a gala event in Cape Town. Franschhoek restaurants and culinary personalities were well represented at the awards.

For the first time since 2012, there’s a new top restaurant. Chef Gregory Czarnecki’s The Restaurant at Waterkloof, outside Somerset West, was confirmed in the top position when it was awarded the Restaurant of the Year title.

Le Quartier Français’ La Petite Colombe was the top performing Franschhoek restaurant, coming in at no.

5 in the Top 10 list. Another three local restaurants cracked the Top 20: Foliage (no. 13), Le Coin Français (no. 14) and Chefs Warehouse at Maison (no.16).

The winning restaurants were determined by the scores of a panel of anonymous judges, convened by Franschhoek’s Margot Janse, who dined around the country unannounced.

Janse will remain at the helm of judging for the restaurant awards, as she takes up the position of chief judge. Said Margot: “I am a chef at heart and know what it takes to make a restaurant unique and successful. I understand the pressures of

maintaining and exceeding expectations. It has been my absolute honour to convene the judges this year, and I am looking forward to becoming Eat Out’s chief judge.”

The chefs of the 30 nominated restaurants were given the opportunity to vote for a champion chef amongst their peers. In a first-ever tie, two chefs share this award, receiving admiration in equal measure from the nominees. The winners of the Eat Out Graham Beck Chefs’ Chef Award are Franschhoeker Chris Erasmus of Foliage and Ivor Jones of Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia.

The Werf Restaurant at Boschendal received the Eat Out Woolworths Sustainability Award in recognition of its commitment to implementing environmentally and socially responsible practices. www.eatout.co.za Text: Editorial Desk

PROMOTIONAL ARTICLE

Good Food & Co.: The Home of Good, Tasty Things Good Food & Co. keeps building on its reputation as purveyor of exactly what its name promises. Owners, and sisters, Joey Stiglingh and Emmarentia Klaasen say they are grateful for the support of their regular customers – many of whom come from out of town to stock up on Good Food & Co.’s range of vegan, low-carb and gluten-free products.

Emmarentia, who is gluten intolerant, says that she is always looking for new products to offer customers with special dietary requirements. Good Food & Co.’s list of low-carb, gluten-free and vegan products already includes, gluten-free biscuits and crackers; egg-free, gluten-free and low-carb pasta; diabetic-friendly, wheatfree, low-carb bread, hamburger rolls and pita breads.

Special dietary options even extend to the cake selection, which includes popular gluten-free chocolate brownies and low-carb, gluten-free cheesecake as well as vegan chocolate brownies and millionaires cake.

Enjoy a guilt-free slice with a cup of Terbodore coffee while watching life pass by on the main road.

Old favourites are still there: well-known carrot and cheese cake, freshly-baked pies, quiches – including banting-friendly quiches, all manner of condiments, preserves and spices and a freezer stocked with delicious ‘heat & eat’ frozen meals. The heat & eat options also include several vegan, gluten-free and banting-friendly options, including: lasagne, moussaka, mac & cheese and chicken tikka masala.

The fully-licenced restaurant’s menu offers something appropriate for any time of day or degree of hunger – with loads of vegan, vegetarian and low-carb and gluten free options. Veganfriendly options alone include breakfast, topless sandwiches, toasties, burgers, lasagne and sweets.

The drinks options have been forgotten either, with almond rice and soya milk cappuccinos and vegan wines part of the vegan offering.

Even meat eaters will be happy to tuck into Good Food & Co.’s Quinoa “fried rice” for lunch. Think brown rice & quinoa, mixed vegetables (black mushroom, spinach, white and purple cabbage, pickled onion), roasted nut and seed mix, beetroot crisps and coconut flakes with soya chilli dressing.

If gluten is a problem try a 200g beef, chicken or vegetable burger served on black mushroom and served with a salad or sweet potato chips.

For dessert gluten-free or vegan pancakes and strawberries with (or without) cream are summer winners. Don’t forget to try the gluten-free and vegan sorbet ice-cream. It’s delectable, irrespective of your dietary preferences!

With such variety on offer, it’s no surprise that a satisfied guest remarked: “It is such a nice change to be able to sit at one table with my family and have everybody’s dietary requirements met. And that when all I want is a simple burger!”

As always Good Food & Co. make entertaining easy with a variety of palate- and pocket-pleasing platters for work functions, parties and other gatherings. These range from sandwiches to meats to canapés and anything in between. Vegetarian

and gluten-free platters are also available. It’s even possible to make up a mixed platter by combining halves of two different platters!

The sisters say that their loyalty card for regular customers has been well received. Cardholders qualify for 10% off anything from the menu and 5% off heat & eat meals. “Our regulars are an important part of our business,” they say, “this is our way of thanking them for their support.” Pensioners can now also apply for their own card, offering them 20% off anything on the sit-in menu from Monday – Thursday. (Ts & Cs apply for both cards. Enquire at

the counter.)

With the festive season around the corner Joey and Emmarentia would like to wish residents and visitors alike a joyous Christmas and happy New Year.

Good Food & Co. is open from 08h00 – 18h00 (Monday – Saturday) and 08h00 – 16h00 (Sunday).

Open until 15h00 on 24 Dec. Closed on 25 & 26 Dec. Like the Good Food & Co. Facebook page to stay up to date with specials and new products – Good Food & Co Deli/Restaurant Franschhoek.

E-mail your orders to: goodfoodco.franschhoek@ gmail.com | 021 876 3556

December 2018 | 11

PROMOTIONAL ARTICLE

Sweet 16 for Physios in Franschhoek!

The Physiotherapists at Claire Horn and Associates are as active as ever, treating all sports injuries, pre- and rehabilitation, pain management, specific exercise classes and delivering hands on orthopaedic manual therapy. The practice wishes to thank the people of Franschhoek for their wonderful support and the local doctors for holding physical health high on the list of priorities for good health.

We’d like to introduce residents to Maans Lintvelt, who joined the practice based in the village and at Bridge House School. Maans has a very specific mandate to develop community services, making physiotherapy as accessible as possible to the broader community in the valley and surrounds. We decided to start at “home”; to this end, Maans works with Fleur De Lis assessing residents for physiotherapy needs, mobility requirements and rehabilitation advice.

We make this service available at cost or less to our elderly and those with limited resources for advanced medical care.

Both Maans Lintvelt and Bronwen Talbot are a resource for our local rugby club and endeavour to make themselves available to keep the team in the game. Treatments, strapping, advice and exercise programmes to address the various injuries of the players is how they contribute – with an emphasis on affordability for our team players.

PHYSIO on FARMS was launched last year by Claire Horn and Maans Lintvelt in association with Boschendal farm. We have initiated a weekly morning physiotherapy clinic with premises provided by Boschendal and a physiotherapist supplied by our offices (mainly Maans). We consult and regularly treat farm workers and any employees of Boschendal farm services. This includes the hospitality and gardening staff. This has been an extremely successful venture funded

by Boschendal as a service to their staff.

Musculoskeletal health and well-being is critical to our community and productivity. Pain is a common complaint that restricts overall function and good health. What we found with our research in the area is the accessibility to state health supported physiotherapy services is very limited. The cost of transport, general lack of services available or lack of referral to these services, are cited as reasons why many do not seek out care. We are interested in taking our physiotherapy services further into the community of Franschhoek.

The Boschendal clinic works as a free service to its employees because we, as a practice, are willing to provide the service and Boschendal is willing to contribute a rate for the service. This business experiment has worked well, keeping employees on the job, reassuring individuals concerned with the symptoms they experience and empowering individuals to manage their

IN FRANSCHHOEK

claire horn & associates @ 48 VILLAGE ARTISAN

021 876 4234 · 082 582 1029

Sauna, Heated Indoor Pool physical health. Pain education is a specific focus with hands on manual therapy, exercise prescription and rehabilitation.

Maans Lintvelt has done an outstanding job of running with the community service development in the physio practice and we commend him for this dedication. We hope to expand this service to other farms, factories and corporates that may be interested in a once-a-month clinic for employees with painful musculoskeletal conditions. On-site services work well as this enhances accessibility; however, our offices in Artisans Village are also readily available for this service. Please enquire directly with Alishia at reception.

Maans is also well known for his exercise classes for the seniors in the community, running a biweekly class at the rooms in a small group.

Many Franschhoekers will also have met him in our treatment rooms where his skills as an orthopaedic manual therapist have developed and grown significantly over the last two years as he works towards completing and advanced certification in orthopaedic manual therapy via the South African Society of Physiotherapy.

Regardless of all the physio work at the practice, 2018 has also been the year of more weddings.

Hermanus Lintvelt and Elizabeth Loock were married in Stanford on 11 August 2018 and it was revealed that he is significantly skilled at dancing – see picture!

Please do contact our office directly on 021 876 4234 for a physiotherapy appointment and do please contact me directly (clairehornphysio@ gmail.com) if you are interested in having us provide onsite physiotherapy on your farm or factory or work site.

Check out our new Facebook page “Physiotherapy in Franschhoek Claire Horn and Associates” and or our website www. franschhoekphysio.co.za Yours in Physical Health Claire Horn and Associates Physiotherapists, 48 Artisan Village, Franschhoek | 021 876 4234

Franschhoek Chiropractic Dr. Glynn Till - Chiropractic Clinical Specialist DC, FCCS(Can), FCASA(Hon), FSAHA(Hon) Treatments offered: Spinal & Extremity joint manipulation | Shock wave therapy | Low level laser therapy | Graston technique | Dry needling | Massage | McManus traction | Rehabilitation exercises | Strapping & Taping Conditions frequently treated: Back & Neck pain | Sprains & Strains (muscles, tendons and ligaments) | ITB, plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff, tennis & golfers elbow, Achilles tendonosis, bursitis | Trigger points (myofascial pain syndromes) | Sciatica & Brachial neuralgia | Sports injuries | Headaches | Arthritis 57 Cabrière Street, Franschhoek, 7690 | Cell: 073 227 1851

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12 | December 2018

Tatler Motoring MICHELE LUPINI

Exclusive First Drive: Subaru STi Diamond Edition Shine On: Out & about with Subaru’s crazy diamond

It stands apart by a Day-Glo yellow all-round body kit for that classic Subaru WRC look, but all signature STi features remain unchanged right up to that rear wing.

Interior tweaks include cool dash inlays and a numbered panel, 7-speaker, 440W Harmon Kardon power audio with STi’s standard 7-inch Touch Screen Bluetooth Infotainment now incorporating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone interface too.

I heard Diamond Edition rumbling up the street and first impressions were plain and simple STi splendid.

That yellow petticoat may not appeal to all tastes, but I love it. All of it.

To me, ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’ is to me perhaps

Swing open the door and a familiar STi feel greets

the most poignant piece of music ever produced. The

you — seats are not quite as hard as those old race-like

nine-part Pink Floyd composition written by Gilmour,

buckets, but slip into them and press that button to

Waters and Wright as a tribute to fallen band member

start a history lesson of note. Strangely enough, Floyd’s

Syd Barrett touches my (and so many other people’s)

lyrics fit it like a glove — ‘Remember when you were

deepest emotions as it strikes a special chord right

young, you shone like the sun?’ Well I certainly do — that

back to the highs (and lows) of my youth.

boxer four rumbles to life just like my Group N racer did

I suppose Shine On could never avoid being sucked into this piece — see, like Floyd, the Doors and one

back when, rough and rorty, it resonates through the seat tempting you to take it by the neck.

or two other classics, Subaru is indelibly stamped

So I took it by the neck. STi is manual — woo boy, is

on my brain alongside a few other brands close to

that a relief? Changing gear by hand will soon become

my heart — Ferrari, Ducati and KTM among them.

a forgotten art — it’s a tragedy to consider that people

Suppose it’s no surprise —Subaru arrived in SA more

will one day not be able to do what I did with this

or less when we started publishing and we’ve been

car. Imagine eliminating foreplay? That’s what they’re

like two peas in a pod ever since and to be honest,

doing killing manual cars. So yes of course, Diamond

this Diamond Edition struck just as special a chord

Edition is demanding to drive, just by dint of it being

as Shine On does to take me straight back to the

a manual!

great old days…

Taut on the road, that quick ratio steering is finely

I was fortunate enough to be the first to get my hands

weighted and reports back just what you need to

on this Crazy Diamond — the thirty-off Subaru WRX STi

know about what’s going on between car and road,

Diamond Edition — Subaru SA’s most powerful STi and

while that sublime Symmetrical All Wheel drive shines

the new jewel in Subaru’s performance crown. Locally

on through and that rorty Subaru soundtrack is ever

developed, Diamond Edition builds on that extreme

present to edge you on.

World Rally-bred STi philosophy of extreme driving enjoyment.

Midrange punch really impressed me — it gets you in the small of the back as Diamond Edition distorts the

Crazy Diamond gets a performance exhaust and

horizon with its progress towards it and soon you find

remapped ECU to massage that 2.5-litre turbo Boxer

yourself panting and sweating after a stint over a good

four to 260kW and 464Nm. Subaru claims a 5.03-second

mountain pass, but that’s just the driver trying to keep

0-100km/h dash, a second quicker to 160km/h and

up with the car.

the same 255km/h top end as the standard STi. I

Subaru promises a driver’s car through and through

can confirm it is quick, but you will have to wait for

and I am afraid I am forced to fully concur – Diamond

Performance Car of the Year next month to learn by

Edition salutes that STi legend in absolutely stunning

how much.

style and first impressions are sufficient to warn you that

Add 20mm wider front and rear tracks, 10mm-

if you want one, you’d better get down to your Subaru

lowered suspension and a STi engine brace to add

dealer right now as pre-orders are open for the R799k

stability. Full five-star safe Diamond Edition STI has

Diamond Edition with deliveries set for January 2019

Brembo brakes with 4-sensor 4-channel ABS with

complete with a special Owners Certificate certifying

EBD and rides on darkened lightweight 19-inch alloys.

limited-edition validity and a 3-year/75 000km Full

Maintenance Plan and a 5 year/150 000km Subaru Warranty.

Not much can match the charisma, remind me of my and its heritage and make me smile quite as much as this thing does. Subaru South Africa certainly has captured the essence of STi in this car — shine on you crazy diamond!

Images – Michele Lupini Don’t miss January’s Tatler to learn how Diamond Edition fared in our annual Performance Car of the Year.

Find Michele Lupini’s Franschhoek-based Auto Bakkie Race! magazine on village and national bookshelves and also online at www.autobakkierace.co.za

December 2018 | 13

Gio Salutes Local Supporters Franschhoek’s teenage race driver Giordano Lupini may have endured a tough season on track, but he is ready to bounce back next year. Lupini was often the pacesetter in the supercompetitive Class C of this season’s WP Burly Pro GTi Challenge, but he was unlucky for his Golf to consistently only find trouble at the most inopportune moments.

“I promise you, I know how Vettel, Ricciardo and Alonso felt in F1 this year!” Giordano grinned. “Of the seven championship races this past season, we managed to get through qualifying in five and of those I was on pole position three times and second once.

“We had several fastest race laps too and a couple of second places, but let’s just say that those results don’t justify our potential! We’ve regrouped and are already preparing for next season – I’m taking the positives from 2018 and building up to 2019 on that.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to salute our backers and supporters, not least my longstanding Franschhoek sponsors, La Vie de Luc mineral water and CIR Construction and I must thank Christian and Jeff for all their support over the years. Also, special thanks to our panel sponsors, acciDent Guru in Paarden Island and Accelerate 102 Special Gasoline.

“Finally, a shout out to Bridge House School for all the tolerance and support of my extramural sport over the past nine years through karting and on the main circuit – it has been an honour to have attended a school that backed me all the way despite many days off and all the focus on track!”

Giordano moves on to study an entrepreneurial marketing degree at Vega College next year and will continue on track in GTi Challenge.

“We’d love to get back into the national Polo Cup series too next year,” Giordano concluded. “That requires significantly more budget than we have at this point, but we are happy to talk anyone keen on a great race-based multimedia marketing campaign – I’d be delighted to fly your flag around the country!”

Contact motorsport@m-cmedia. co.za to learn how sponsoring Giordano can best benefit your next marketing campaign.

to all these amazing sponsors for so generously supporting Annette’s 15th Quiz Night!

JO MIDDLETON

14 | December 2018 14 | November 2018

SPCA Probus News Club GRAEME COMRIE

MARK TANNER

Our meeting is on 5 aNovember when Chris Tylernext Swanepoel’s Lunch R15 000 Success!

Hartnady will introduce to his world of structural Fourteen-year-old Tyler us Swanepoel wanted to do geology, tectonics, fractured aquifers andfrom risk something special for the SPCArock so she arranged, assessment geohazards. insight into start to finish,regarding a lunch that was held An at Haut Espoir. our futurewas water sources?

The lunch a great success with donations totalling We are nearing theSPCA year sterilisation end and programme. a reminder almost R 15 000 for the that will be of noFoliage speaker in December andand no Tyler there had the help Chef Chris Erasmus meeting January ThereSunday will be the usual his staff inin setting up a2019. wonderful lunch.

Christmas lunch inTyler December so the keep watching In her own words described experience: this We are reasons also expecting visit from the “We space. set ourselves to not ado something, Hermanus new whether it’sProbus our age,Club, beingsomething too busy, or justand us something to look to. because it limits us procrastinating.

It’sforward a sad thing, What is probusour all about? from achieving true potential. This fundraiser In South Africa there is a rapidly growing number of Probus Clubs, which offer retirees the

Fleur de Lis News SPCA News

facility to successfully manage the transition from high pressure executive, professional and other vocational activity to a calmer way of life.

This is achieved through these valuable features of membership: • Opportunities to extend compatible social contacts and maintain interest in the topical issues of the day.

• Nurturing positive attitudes to ageing through group recreation and the sharing of information on issues of concern to Senior Citizens.

• Tyler Support in griefwith and Foliage’s illness. Ann Marie Fouché Swanepoel • Speakers at monthly luncheons provide a was the act of me just deciding to who do something fresh that I’vemental always challenge wanted toand do.stimulation.

It was me jumping • We are a-political and non-sectarian into something and doing it even though I am only • We are mindful of the fact that costs are an fourteen, at school and am busy. It was one of the important consideration. Membership fees, greatest things I’ve ever done. It was also wonderful therefore, are kept to a minimum; while monthly to see so many people supporting this event! It luncheon costs vary. showed the beautiful aspect of human kind.”

• Probus is not a Service/Fund Raising organization.

Thank you Tyler For more information please contact Mark Tanner on 082 773 9217.

WILNA VAN DER WESTHUIZEN

Fleur de Lis received a very big, early Christmas November. Through the genorosity of donors we now have our very own Tin Soldiers minibus.

The vehicleSPCA will make easier for The Franschhoek rely life formuch a signifi cant residents, it is by taking to doctors portion of whether their funding from them the little blue appointments, shopping onthe outings.

Once again tins which are to be seenorat tills of retailers, our community has shown just caring they restaurants and coffee shops in how the village.

We are. are de Lis wil vanbusinesses die geleentheid gebruik veryFleur appreciative of the which support maak om die Franschhoek gemeenskap the SPCA byvir keeping the tins safe and close tobaie the dankie vir die ruim skenkings en bederf tills.

Over te thesêyears a number of volunteers have gedurende 2018.

Ons is ook dankbaar the vir tins die made significant contribution by emptying nie sorting, in Franschhoek blyand nie –banking almal is ondonateurs a regularwat basis, counting altyd gewillig om te help.

Diepieces Bestuur, personeel the many 10, 20 and 50 cent donated by en ouerpersone waardeer dit baie en besef net thoughtful customers.

Hospice News

delicious wine courtesy of Leopards Leap and sparkling wine donated by DGB. Every lady left with a fabulous Goodie Bag and we thank all our donors for their generosity: Franschhoek Skin Care, Franschhoek Clicks, TANIA VAN DEEMTER On Saturday, 10 November, a group of Bridge House parents and pupils worked together Huguenot Fine Chocolates, Sandra Slabber, Nico du Plooy, Ian Engelbrecht from Aquelle Water, on a project to build a sustainable outdoor adventure playground on some unusedSteven land ACVV Franschhoek 110 Years of Service to the Cronje from Kaap Agri, The Residents and Staff alongside the Groendal Community Centre.

Community of Fleur de Lis, Lig Tydskrif, Franschhoek Medical On 19 September the ACVV Franschhoek had a Practitioners and the local community for flower Almost all of the materials used were donated wonderful morning of celebrations in the Town Hall donations. Thank you especially to the Board of and the team were very grateful for the additional to celebrate 110 years of service to the community.

Fleur de Lis for your amazing work in putting this generous contributions from Paintsmiths Paarl, It was cold and rainy outside, but the atmosphere wonderful event together.

Paul Carruthers (Mr Fix-it) and the Bridge House in the town hall was warm and festive with 180 The ACVV works tirelessly in the community to Parents’ Association as well as the support from people gathered to enjoy the morning. guide, help and protect vulnerable children and The River Café in Franschhoek. The project was Thank you to ACVV Head office for attending families. We rely heavily on donations, fundraising developed as a much needed add-on to the and for Mrs Abel who entertained us with all her and volunteers. existing Friday afternoon play group held at the interesting stories about the ACVV over the last Our next event will be the Franschhoek Christmas centre at which a number of Bridge House pupils 110 years. Dowwe Dolle and Wicus van der Merwe Lights on Saturday, 1 December 2018, where we currently volunteer. had us crying with laughter with all their funny will be singing Christmas Carols, await the arrival of For further details on both the play group and the antics. The entertainment finished on a highlight Father Christmas and switching on the Christmas playground please contact Melissa Wainwright on with a very moving ballroom dance performance tree lights front ofCommunity the town hall.

Please Thein Groendal Centre nowsupport 071 870 2057 or Mary George on 076 932 6377. The

by Cassidy Bailey, an inspirational 13-year- old girl this eventboasts by sponsoring a light on the Christmas a brand new playground. team is developing a file containing all the detailed in a wheelchair.

Tree or purchasing an advertising board for your plans used in the construction as well as ideas for want to undertake similar projects elsewhere.

We enjoyed a delicious meal which was prepared business. Ask me how! We cannot continue to do where to source the materials, volunteer help, etc.

by Feedem and served by their fabulous troop of the important work we do without your support. which other groups are welcome to use if they Text: Mary George | Image: Bridge House young local waiters and waitresses and enjoyed Tania: 076 726 2873 / tvandeemter@gmail.com

First Spelling Bee in the New

GRAEME present onCOMRIE Monday, 22

The income from the more than 40 SPCA tins which are in the village covers the cost of 10 voluntary sterilisations per month which is a valuable and worthy cause.

The current volunteers who have the task of managing the SPCA tins (who took over from Angela Fraser at the beginning of this year), are COLLEEN DOUGLAS

Parents and Pupils ACVV Construct Playground News

Rotary Groendal Library News dat ons dit nie sonder julle hulp sou kon doen nie.

We look very much forward to 2019 and invite everybody to come visit us and see what we do at our beautiful residential facility.

Hiermee wens ons julle almal ‘n geseënde Kersfeesseisoen en ‘n baie voorspoedige 2019.

Astrid and Bjorn Meth Wees veilig op die paaie.

Astrid and Bjorn Meth. Astrid and Bjorn have been in Franschhoek for 18 months and enjoy the opportunity to “meet the people” while supporting the animals in need.

Thank you to Astrid and Bjorn for your ongoing commitment and support.

It’s true - every cent does count!

Hospice would like to thank the residents of Domaine des Anges for their generous donation of the clubhouse and facilities for our Potjiekos lunch.

To the chefs, Lynette, Juandré, Tinus, Rob and Marelize, Liz for the delicious brandy pudding dessert, our barmen, Esmé and Adel, staff Tiana, Pearl and Cornelia.

Potjiekos chefs Thank you for your time and endless energy in assisting me in putting this fabulous luncheon together. Dale, from Three Streams, again for your donation of ice and Chamonix for your donation of wines.

To our guests on the day, thank you for your support.

Thank you to the NG Kerk for an amazing Christmas carol service and for the door collection in aid of Franschhoek Hospice. Thank you also to Chris and Bronwyn Orpen for accommodating the carol singers.

Hospice House’s office windows have had a ‘facelift’. Beautiful blinds and clear security bars have been affixed throughout. We thank the Rotary Club of Franschhoek Valley and the Rotary Hospice’s new banner wall Foundation for making this possible.

To the Hospice staff, thank you for all your hard A huge thank you to The Graphic Ballroom and XXL work and dedication. To everyone, I wish you a Digital for their generous donation of a wall-size banner. blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

On 1 and 2 December we are at the Franschhoek Save these dates please!

Cap Classique & Champagne Festival. Come and • Volunteers Tea: 13 February 2019, 10h00 at support us. We will be selling our famous croissants Hospice House with smoked salmon trout & cream cheese - R40 • Sunset Concert: 17 February 2019, 17h30 on the each. We look forward to seeing you there. lawns in front of the Monument. For details call Franschhoek Hospice would like to thank all our Staff of the Huguenot Memorial Museum planted 27 olive trees in celebration of3085 the Mandela Centenary Colleen on 021 876 or 082 887 8666. Year. supporters, businesses and individuals in the valley The olive trees were donated to the Museum.

Inmates of Drakenstein Correctional Services, where Nelson • Bridge Drive Lunch: 22 February 2019, 09h00 at andMandela all our volunteers for theirtowards supportthe during 2018. was incarcerated end of his imprisonment, assisted with the digging of the holes.

Domaine des Anges

Olive Trees for Mandela Centenary Year

MARK TANNER

The Bhabhathane Programme in partnership with the Franschhoek Library held the inaugural spelling bee at the new Groendal library on 19 October. All the primary schools in The Rotary Club of Franschhoek Valley the Franschhoek Valley for were represented recently provided funds the installation by of five Grade 5 learners each. security bars and replacement of blinds at the The competition created lots of excitement among Franschhoek Hospice. The finished product has the spellers, who were keen to show their love for been well received and certainly looks good as words. The Bhabhathane Programme would like to the accompanying photograph shows. The Rotary thank the Franschhoek and Groendal Libraries for the Club of Franschhoek Valley was able to submit opportunity and their support. Dedicated teachers this project to the Rotary Foundation for financial who prepared the learners for this special event also assistance, a system whereby a Rotary Club’s deserve thanks. Congratulations to all the learners contribution is matched by the Rotary Foundation. who participated and special congratulations to For information on local Rotary activities please the top performers: First place: Amelia Manual contact Mark Tanner on 082 7739217.

(Wemmershoek Primary), Second place: Culan Papier (Wemmershoek Primary) and Third place: Tyler Colombo (Bridge House Preparatory).

Heritage Month Celebrations

Text & Image: Emmalene Ravell Bhabhathane

Letters

The valley’s top grade 5 spellers. FLTR: Amelia Manual, Culan Papier and Tyler Colombo.

St George's

Anglican Church

Passing of Swallow Dear Editor The many friends of Drs John and Pat Burton will be sad to hear that John too has died in England after suffering ill-health for many years.

Pat and John were swallows, and had been coming to Franschhoek every year for over 25 years. John was a man of many parts and in addition to the medical books he published during his career as a dermatologist, he was well known locally for the book he authored and illustrated on Franschhoek birds. Pat was equally erudite, formerly a pathologist who only recently was asked to publish a medical paper.

But apart from their achievements, they were above all loyal friends and wonderful The Huguenotand Memorial Museum celebrated Heritage Month (September) in collaboration with a number neighbours, I shall miss them, as will their of local schools. Grade 3 learners were to make the national flag out of various bits of scrap materials. children and grandchildren in England.

Learners from Wes-Eind Primary, Groendal Primary, Wemmershoek Primary and Franschhoek High School RIP Pat and John participated.

Assignments on the Heritage of Franschhoek by Franschhoek High School’s Grade 9 learners

Groot Drakenstein

CHRISTMAS SERVICES

Monday, 24 December: 18h00 Crib Building Service 22h30 Midnight Mass Tuesday, 25 December: 10h00 Christmas Day Service

Lizalso Lawrie were exhibited. The participating learners (pictured above) were treated to light refreshments for their efforts. The management of the museum would like to thank all the schools for their participation.

December 2018 | 15

Editor’s Letter Siegfried Schäfer

Dear Readers In my September letter I mentioned that James and Deborah Fallows’ book Our Towns was on my must-read-soon list. I have now finally read Our Towns. It certainly paints a very different picture of the US of A to what we usually see on CNN and offers some useful pointers to other jurisdictions.

Harvard Magazine described Our Towns as “a buoyant travelogue filled with quiet jubilation: at a time of malaise at the national level, the towns and cities [the authors] got to know provide bountiful evidence about the American capacity for local renewal … The United States they experienced is not the surly democracy that has dominated political conversation, sharply polarized between the largely blue coasts and the mostly red heartland. Their country is a big, open vessel of possibilities that divergent places are realizing wonderfully in their own ways, despite muchbetter-known troubles. That discovery – largely missing from public awareness – is unexpected, heartening news.”

As I read Our Towns I made cryptic notes of points I considered interesting or significant. Only when I got near the end of the book did I realise that the authors conclude with a chapter called 10 ½ Signs of Civic Success!

Here’s the Fallows’ list: People work together on practical local possibilities, rather than allowing bitter disagreements about national politics to keep them apart. “…the focus in successful towns was not on insoluble national divisions, but on practical problems a community could address. The more often national politics came into local discussions, the worse shape the town was likely to be in.”

You can pick out local patriots. “Who makes this town go? ...The more quickly this question was answered, the better shape a town was in.”

The range of answers varied widely. Examples

included property developers, mayors, military base commanders, historians, community activists and even saloonkeepers!

The phrase “public-private partnership” refers to something real. The authors admit to thinking that public-private partnerships were “probably a euphemism for sweetheart deals between big government and big business.” They conclude: “In successful towns, people can point to something specific and say; ‘This is what a partnership means.’”

People know the civic story. “As with guiding national myths, the question is not whether these assessments seem precisely accurate to outsiders.

Their value is in giving citizens a sense of how today’s efforts are connected to what happened yesterday and what they hope tomorrow will bring.”

They have downtowns. “Most of the cities we visited were pouring attention, resources, and creativity into their downtowns … downtown ambitions of any sort are a positive sign, and occupied second- and third-floor apartments and condos over restaurants and stores suggest that the downtown has crossed a decisive threshold and will survive.”

They are near a research university. “Research universities have become the modern counterparts to a natural harbour or a location at a river confluence, in the economic benefits they confer … they sustain demand by bringing in a student population … university academic staff can broaden the international diversity of a community and raise its median education level … (and) research universities are powerful start-up incubators.”

They have, and care about, a community college. “Just about every other world-historical trend is toward a less equal, more polarized existence … community colleges are the main exception, potentially offering a connection to higher-wage technical jobs for people who might otherwise be left with no job or one at minimum wage.”

They have distinctive, innovative schools.

“We would ask what was the most distinctive school to visit … (if) four or five answers came

quickly to mind, that was a good sign.”

They make themselves open. “Every small town in America has thought about how to offset the natural brain-drain tendencies that have historically sent its brightest young people elsewhere. The same emphasis on inclusion that would make a town attractive to talented outsiders increases its draw to its own émigrés.”

They have big plans. The authors observe that national political gridlock makes it difficult to have faith that national plans will ever be realised.

“Cities, because they can do things, still make plans … When a mayor or community council shows me a map of how new downtown residences will look when they’re completed, or where the new greenway will go, I think: I’d like to come back.”

You may ask at this point what the ½ sign is. Well, it’s a… micro-brewery!

As I’ve mentioned, I also made notes of some other interesting points. Here are a few that stood out for me: Places to commune with nature and each other.

I was struck by how many of the towns visited invested significantly in parks, trails, cycle ways etc.

Two examples include the ‘Highline’ in NYC and a trail circuit that completely surrounds Sioux City.

The City of Columbus, Ohio, has a ‘small business concierge’ to assist in navigating official processes.

A number of towns offered tax credits to preserve historic buildings, or invest in rundown areas.

Local ownership of public utilities meant that towns were not dependent on, or prescribed to by ‘outsiders’ who might not be responsive to local conditions.

In Dodge City tax payers voted for a 1% rate increase to fund necessary infrastructure investment. The point being that people are sometimes willing to pay more to fund necessary projects if there is sufficient trust in how moneys are spent and agreement about the project.

Despite differences of culture and governance between the US and SA, I do believe that all of the Fallows’ conclusions have at least some relevance to the debate about what we want for our own towns in SA. With that, all that remains for me to do is to wish you all a merry Christmas and best wishes for 2019.

Until next year!

DEADLINES - JANUARY 2019 ISSUE Bookings - 10 December

Artwork - 10 December

Editorial - 10 December

An Evening of ‘Carols for Change’ on 17 December

MARK YOUR DIARIES FOR WHAT IS SURE TO BECOME A WINELANDS SOCIAL HIGHLIGHT.

Vrede en Lust Wine Estate, in association with Franschhoek Life, is delighted to be hosting an evening of Festive Carols – ‘Carols for Change’ in support of the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy and Learning Centre (FHALC).

The event will take place at 17h00 on Monday, 17 December, on the lawns of the beautiful Vrede en Lust Manor House.

Tickets are R550 per couple and include a welcome drink, an evening of entertainment featuring the smooth vocals of Newton & Co, carol singing and a picnic basket for two (crammed with goodies from famed chef and FHALC Ambassador Jean-Pierre Smith of the estate’s Lust Bistro & Bakery).

Estate wines and a limited number of blankets will be available for purchase on the evening and all proceeds will go towards building a teaching kitchen at the new premises of the FHALC. Patrons are asked to donate a kitchen gadget on the evening.

Children are welcome and food for them will be available for purchase.

Strictly no bring-your-own food or drink.

Tickets are available online at: http://qkt.io/carols4change To find out more about how you can assist the FHALC visit www.franschhoekhospitalityacademy.co.za

16 | December 2018

Not Minding Your Own Business

Petit & Grand Plaisir Shine at Lilizela Awards 2018

Geoff and Carola are The Franschhoek Property Management people. Theirs is not the usual type of property management with blocks of flats or big housing developments on their books, they look after residential homes. They spotted a need in Franschhoek for a dependable and capable service in this field and they happily set out to provide it. What they do, is look after a property while the owners are away, whether it be for a weekend or an extended period of say six months. They adapt the service they provide to the needs required. They also manage locals’ Airbnb’s fully or partially. They can do the day-to-day running or simply do the receiving and settling in of guests. They are fully aware that current and new legalities are to be considered and accept that their customers do the necessary.

This is not a hit and miss venture for Geoff and Carola; they have been managing properties of their own for fifteen years. They did it as an investment while working at their respective professions; Geoff in the motor industry and Carola in recruitment. In so doing, they developed an understanding for property, its management and dealing with the pitfalls.

They do not employ Geoff and Carola Gray other staff members, but have searched for and selected professionals industry is a good place to be and the fact that on whom they call when necessary. Performance Carola speaks German has been a boon. standards are very important to them and they oversee Why would the Grays do all this in Franschhoek? every job. Having travelled extensively, they have stayed They discovered the valley a few years ago, came in and seen many establishments, so they know what back again to marvel at the colours and difference expectations for accommodation generally are. in the seasons. Carola says, “You can’t find a better “We want to offer a really good service that people place to live; the greenness, the fresh air, the can afford and we can manage comfortably,” is mountains, the wonderful people, the village life – their explanation when Geoff says he retired from and we have kids nearby in Cape Town.” the corporate world and now does something nice There’s a lot to be said for living in a place you he enjoys and understands, not something he really like and doing a job you really know and has to do to earn a living. He is very conscious of planning a future you really want. a reputation built on loyalty and consistency that is dependent on word of mouth. The hospitality Text: Editorial Desk | Images: Foto Artist Studio

Petit & Grand Plaisir self-catering cottages shone at the recent Lilizela Tourism Awards.

The Lilizela Awards are an initiative of the National Department of Tourism (NDT); spearheaded by South African Tourism and delivered by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.

Owner, Marlicia Meyer, is justifiably proud that her cottages won the 2017 and 2018 legs of the provincial competition and was one of three category finalists at the national of the 2018 awards. “Since opening Petit Plaisir twelve years ago, the business has grown substantially. The addition of Grand Plaisir gives guests options, thus catering to their specific needs. My personal touch and approach (while giving guests ample privacy) is what I pride myself in – and what I think sets me apart from many others,” says Marlicia. “All the units are beautifully decorated and spacious, whether

accommodating a single person or families/ friends travelling together. The guesthouse is situated near many amazing restaurants and wine farms, but still provides guests the option to cook their own meals in the fully equipped kitchens in each unit. Many of our guests visit time and again, knowing that they will always get friendly service and more than what they expect,” she continues.

Launched in May 2013, the Lilizela Tourism Awards aim to recognise and reward the highest levels of excellence in tourism value chain. The name is derived from the Zulu word ‘’Lilizela’’ which means celebrating and praising by ululating when someone has done well. The Lilizela Tourism Award judges are hand-picked from across the industry as the ultimate experts in their fields.

Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Petit Plaisir

Authentically South African – the table is set at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards

Culinary tourists and foodies are now invited to take their place at the Leopard’s Leap South African Table! Around this table, those interested in culinary culture can share an authentic South African meal, enjoy Cape wine and join the conversation on the origin and development of the local gastronomy.

South Africa is a melting-pot of cultures, all of which influence food traditions and styles of cooking.The passionate Chef Pieter de Jager introduces guests to the diversity of South African cuisine and explains the rich culinary history and shares the tales behind the food he serves. Guests are also introduced to the versatile collection of Leopard’s Leap wines and their unique South African attributes.

The South African Table at Leopard’s Leap brings together old and new friends for a relaxed mid-week luncheon of authentic South African cuisine and conversations on food and wine a highlight on any Franschhoek itinerary.

Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 12:00 – 13:00 Cost per person: R295 Reservations can be made in advance at reservations@leopardsleap.co.za or +27 (0)21 876 8002 #SharingSAFoodandWine

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December 2018 | 17

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18 | December 2018

Business Leadership

This they do to celebrate what they have achieved and to examine what they could do even better next time and they look at their failures for the same reasons. They don’t embark on a witch-hunt to crucify or punish the perpetrators of the failure, because failures are generally

TONY FROST

Financial Matters

calendar year, then you are required to register as an importer with SARS.

year. This is in spite of the fact that VAT and customs duty is already being recovered.

CELIA MCGUINNESS

That’s bad news…

the result of a systems malfunction and seldom the

Getting Teams to Work as Teams

result of one person’s mistakes. Rather they examine

Importing From Amazon: You Could Be Forced to Register as an Importer

The way performance is managed in organisations

the failures to see what they can do to prevent similar

almost always amazes me. If you listen to the

failures in future and much more importantly, to learn

Picture this: Gavin brings in books and DVDs from

organisational rhetoric you would think that teamwork

what they can do to improve the way the organisation

Amazon (to take just one example – this applies to anything

is of vital importance and central to the success of the

works and to prepare it to work better in the future.

sourced from foreign online retailers like eBay, Alibaba

organisation. Yet, if you examine how performance is

This is key to improving team performance – collective

etc.). He pays VAT and customs duty on the products and

managed it is very rarely that the team is managed as a

assessment and team learning.

is frustrated when his couriers don’t deliver his purchases.

So how should we make performance management

team. Invariably the focus is on individual performance a

and not on that of the team.

A plethora of individual performance management

better,

more

effective,

more

team-oriented

experience in organisations?

He gets even more frustrated after phoning them as they tell him that his products have not been released from customs because he is not a registered importer.

Firstly, for it to be truly team-oriented the team must

carries out their daily tasks. To make matters even more

be central to the whole process. This starts with the

If you bring in more than three shipments or if your

complicated, or worse, one finds that the remuneration

team agreeing what it has to achieve as a team and,

imports cumulatively are more than R50 000 per

of individuals is linked to these performance appraisals.

secondly, what each member of the team has to deliver

If the appraisals were always fair it would ameliorate

for the team achieve its goals. Once this is in place

matters somewhat, but often they are not. Invariably

the system is set up for effective and fun performance

it is the boss, who owns the structural power, having a

management. In fact, it becomes a self-regulating and

one-on-one appraisal discussion or interview with the

organic instrument of the organisation as a whole and

subordinate who occupies a significantly lower position

not a one-off disconnected annual process of evaluation.

The management part of this process should not only be

the effect of the team on the individual’s performance,

an annual event, but rather an on-going regular part of the

nor is the team’s view of the contribution of that

management systems in the organisation. Performance

individual taken into consideration.

The team will

should be part of the daily ritual. Formal review should

always have a more informed idea of this than the boss,

take pace monthly, or more often if the deadlines and

because invariably they have much more regular and

tasks are time critical. This approach ensures that there

direct contact with the individual both as a supplier and

is a built-in feedback loop that is constantly honing the

recipient of whatever the person has to do.

performance of team members with all members having

It is very difficult to find the system that places the

the opportunity to contribute every step of the way. It

team at the centre of managing performance and one

also ensures that all team members are fully informed of

that allows everyone who has a stake in the outcomes of

everything relevant to the team’s performance. Of course,

this performance to participate in reviewing the past and

the focus must be on improvement and therefore forward-

planning the future. Mostly the planning is done elsewhere;

looking; not on appraisal and therefore backward-looking.

the outcomes of this planning arrive on the desk of the team and individuals as a fait accompli and instructions.

Teams work as teams if they are managed that way. If the emphasis is on individuals and individual

When the game

performance then we should not be surprised

is over they sit down and debrief. If there is video of

when silos develop, alongside internal petty politics,

the game they watch themselves and critically review

jealousies and self-absorption.

Except for most sport teams...

what happened as a team and what can be done to

The truth is, of course, that not one of us can be nearly

improve their collective performance in the next game.

as effective and successful as all of us working together!

The best companies in the world make a profession out of debriefing – both their successes and their failures.

tony@siroccostrategy.com

Registering as an importer is not easy. You have to: • Complete a DA185 and a DA185.4A1 • Show proof of address • Have a tax clearance • Have a certified ID • Lodge a bank statement • Lodge an affidavit stating that all the above information is correct.

The Customs Act and regulations pertaining to importers are more than 6 000 pages long! Be warned, if you want to import a lot of books, DVDs or other

When must you register?

systems have been developed to manage how a person

on the power equation. Seldom is any notice taken of

This has been a requirement

since 2013, but SARS have only been enforcing it this

goods, your life will get a whole lot more complicated.

Don’t take chances here; ask your accountant for help if you fall into the net.

Rate Hike: Consumers Carry Cost of Corruption and Poor Decisions The decision by the Reserve Bank in late November to increase interest rates will have the biggest impact on the poor and is the result of poor policy decisions made by the national government, Minister of Economic Opportunities in the Western Cape, Beverley Schäfer said.

“We believe that this crisis has been created in Pretoria as a direct result of corruption which had cost the

Consumers are being punished for the national government’s poor decision making,” Schäfer said.

country billions of Rands and bad policy decisions like

South Africans are paying more for petrol not just

land expropriation without compensation,” Schäfer said.

because the cost of oil has increased, but because

“If

the

country’s

systems

and

state

owned

enterprises had been properly operated over the past nine years, this rate hike would never have been necessary,” she continued.

economic decisions had seen the Rand devalue, and the cost of imports increase as a result.

Schäfer said that the rate hike had not been an attempt to reign in consumer spending, as local

The rate hike is likely to impact the poor and middle class the most, as it becomes more expensive for them to service their debt.

inflation had been subdued, and had registered within the six percent band.

“What consumers are essentially paying for is

“This is just the latest in a series of blows the

imported inflation because the currency has been

consumer has had to shoulder this year including

devalued. Consumers are paying more for imported

several consecutive fuel price hikes which have

goods and fuel and then being further punished

put the cost of fuel at an all-time high, and a

with interest rate hikes,” Schäfer said.

regressive VAT increase. Eskom has also requested a 15% electricity price hike over the next few years.

Text & Image: Editorial Desk

Skills Development to Position Western Cape as Global Technology Hub The Western Cape can become a global technological hub was the message from the provincial Department of Economic Development and Tourism as it launched a process to develop the skills to achieve this in early November.

the digital space, and in order to meet the needs of

million e-commerce users, with this expected to grow

a hyper-connected global economy, and remain

by an additional 6.36 million by 2021.

educational institutions and employers in order to

The tourism sector is a major job creator. The study

competitive, Western Cape businesses and individuals

According to the study, the sector will require skills in

notes that only 22% of visitors to South Africa make use

must keep pace. We cannot afford to be left behind.

e-commerce management and planning, call centre

of traditional travel agencies in order to book their trips.

The impact on our competitiveness as a region and on

agents, and software developers. However, as the

Online booking tools for flights, hotel reservations and

jobs would be too great.”

sector becomes more digitised, significant upskilling

other tourism attractions have changed the tourism

and re-skilling of staff will be required in order to keep

landscape, and yet, the study found that few tour guide

up with changes.

courses offer any kind of mobile technology training.

The Western Cape is already home to a strong and developing tech sector, with a wide mix of tech start-

The Department hosted a workshop with trainers,

It notes that bigger international hotel chains will be

ups and international giants like Amazon recently

Business and financial services:

announcing a new data centre in the Western Cape.

This sector is the biggest employer in the province,

able to keep up with changing digital needs; however,

adding 64% of the total jobs created in the Western

smaller and medium sized hospitality businesses

Cape since 2011.

must possess social media skills as these are key to

present research about the current state of digital

Minister Schäfer said: “As opportunities in the digital

skills in the province, identify opportunities and map

economy open up, and more investment is driven into the

the way forward for development.

region, we need the skills to support this growth and amplify

Cape Town made its debut on the World Financial

it. We also need to increase the ability of marginalized

Centres Index earlier this year at number 38, and

communities to participate in a digitally enabled world.”

overtook Johannesburg as the top financial centre in

The next step is to develop a shared agenda and roadmap for release in April 2019.

The

target

includes

ensuring

80%

internet

The as-is research report examined various sectors in

penetration for citizens in the province and securing

the Western Cape economy in order to understand its

R10 billion in investments in the sector by 2030.

digital readiness and skills requirements.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Economic Opportunities,

Tourism:

Retail and wholesale:

marketing their businesses.

Animation, film and media, gaming: The Western Cape’s animation industry is small but well developed, while the film and media industry has

Sub-Saharan Africa.

Key skills required include data analytics, big data,

shown good growth in recent years. These industries are

cyber security, machine learning and cloud computing.

technologically driven, and with the correct skills base, have

The study suggests that universities will not be able

the potential to contribute significantly to economic growth.

Beverley Schäfer said “We have set the ambitious goal for

The retail and wholesale sector plays a major role in

to adapt their modules to keep up with the fast paced

Key skills gaps identified include film and video

our province to become a leading, global digital hub. To do

the province’s economy, registering average annual

changes in this field, and as such, a culture of innovation

editors, sound engineers, drone operators, game

this we need to have the fundamental pillars of digital skills

growth of 2.6% between 2007 and 2016. Nearly a

needs to be developed in order to keep up with skills needs.

developers, and visual effects artists.

and competencies in place.”

quarter of all South Africa’s jobs (21%) are created in

Accelerators, incubators, boot camps and master classes

“Changes are happening at lightning speed in

this sector. South Africa currently has around 18.4

would be ideally suited to keep skills in this area fresh.

Text: Editorial Desk

Susan Charlesworth ATTORNEY NOTARY CONVEYANCER

Areas of practice:

Estate and succession planning | Commercial Law Administration of estates, trusts & curatorships Engineering & Construction Law Antenuptial contracts | Conveyancing The Franschhoek Cellar Offices, Main Road, Franschhoek, 7690 Tel: +27 (0)21 876 2592 Fax: +27 (0)21 863 1495 Email: susancharlesworth.law@telkomsa.net Also at 342 Val De Vie, Paarl www.susancharlesworth.co.za

WE HAVE MOVED!

December 2018 | 19

Gardening in December

December is a month of reflection, relaxation, family

NATIE FERREIRA

I am writing this article with the sound of gentle rain on our tin roof, some November rain to cool and nourish the earth. After what was a reasonably good winter rainfall season, we jumped straight into summer. Is it only me, or did we skip spring this year? The early heat and accompanying South-Easter challenges and catches me unawares every year. Luckily it is December now – the time to enjoy summer like it should be enjoyed. For those of us lucky enough to go on our annual summer vacation the choices are obvious – you’re probably on the beach already.

Those of us staying at home might just end up with some gardening time. I am surely looking forward to that.

towards ensuring your garden survives your absence.

young trees against the South-Easter.

time, al fresco dining and enjoying life. If you do go away

For those of us staying at home with hands itching to

Harvest ripening veggies regularly and pick up fallen

over the festive days, there are a few things you can do to

garden there is plenty to do. Some free time can be spent

fruit. Keep up your succession sowings of beans, carrots,

help ensure that you return to a healthy-looking garden.

tackling a project – try building a tree house with the kids,

beetroot, lettuce and radishes. Stake tomatoes as they

Water restrictions are still in place and in most areas it

install a hammock, build a fire pit in the bottom of the

grow and pinch back the tips of indeterminate types.

includes a sprinkler system ban. You might have to get

garden or fix that water feature that has been attracting

Also pinch the tips of runner beans when they reach the

someone to come and hand water the garden at least

mosquitoes for the past few years. Walk your garden

top of the poles. I am going to take a chance with some

twice a week. Patio pots should be placed in a shady spot

regularly, keeping a pair of secateurs at hand to deadhead

late sowings of pumpkins, squashes, sweetcorn, peppers,

where they can easily be watered by your hired helpers.

roses, cut wind damaged branches, cut some flowers for

tomatoes and even watermelons and sweet melon.

A deep layer of mulch is a good investment, but you do

the vase and keep topiaries and hedges under control.

A hot summer day is not the ideal time to spend behind

need to really soak the garden after applying this to make

You will be amazed at how much work this simple act

a hot stove cooking jam, but you sure will have plenty of

sure that the water actually penetrates into the soil. Give

can save you later. It is also very therapeutic when done

fruit at hand to can or preserve in some way or the other.

your roses a light summer prune to make sure you don’t

at the end of a stressful day. There is still time to pretty

Try setting up a canning station outside in your braai area

have too much dead heading to do when you come back.

up a dull looking area with some flowering seedlings –

– I have found this to be much cooler and it also turns the

Harvest all vegetables that you can and nip back runner

the nurseries are bursting with colour this time of year

whole process into a family event – you can even combine

beans and other climbers to keep their vertical growth in

and you might find some decent special offerings. While

it with a braai! This is also the ideal place to cook “smelly”

check. A healthy plant is a resilient one, so an application

planting up pots invest in some moisture retaining

foods like bone broth or to render fats.

of foliar feed just before you leave might go a long way

granules to save on watering later. Stake standards and

Fyn, Fyner, Fynbos

Have a blessed Christmas and enjoy the holidays.

Franschhoek newcomer, Dr Gert van Tonder, shares how he combines ancient Japanese techniques and local fynbos to create ‘bonsan’.

Walking in the mountains, I am always intrigued at how

making – especially rock arrangement and the planting

enough heat to dry out the soggiest rusk. What looks

the small stones and vegetation at my feet capture in

of moss. The most efficient teaching method proved to

like a desiccated dry arrangement instantly turns green

miniature the character of the mountains and valleys of

be bringing them to my home, where they could look

after a quick misting with water.

the landscape at large. For more than a millennium, Japan

at a very old, established moss garden, while going

Moss obviously forms part of the fynbos ecosystem,

has excelled at miniaturization of the natural landscape

through the key steps of garden making in a bonsai tray:

its topsoil carpet probably capturing nutrients for

at aristocratic residences and temple courtyards. Ordinary

how to choose rocks, create harmonious compositions

symbiotic use with members in the protea and other

Japanese, too, enjoyed a touch of nature in their strictly

and then, how to plant moss to round it off. The best

plant families that sprout shallow temporary surface

quartered urban enclaves; illustrations of the old capital,

solution was to use only local rocks, local soil, and

roots during their active growth phase. The few ericas

Kyoto, show small trays, planted with tiny trees and rocks,

local moss. Within two hours, students could recreate

and other fynbos I used in bonsan so far seem very

on the verandahs of living rooms. Today this art form

a Japanese garden with just the right look typical

happy to be surrounded with a plush covering of moss,

is widely known as Bonsai, albeit formally focused on

of a grand classical garden, just on a much smaller

and with a few well-placed rocks appear as if I picked

delicately shaped miniature trees, rather than conveying

scale. From this evolved my own style of miniature

up the small cosmos at my feet, as found during a

a sense of landscape using rocks.

garden creation, which I prefer to call bonsan (literally,

mountain hike, and placed it carefully into a bonsan

While working as a neuroscientist in Kyoto over the

meaning tray mountain). Strikingly, these creations not

tray. Look again, and it looks a bit like… Drakenstein, or

past 23 years, I was fortunate to have an opportunity to

only resemble an old Japanese garden in miniature,

Simonsberg! Despite its Japanese inspiration, it does

also complete an internship at an ancient landscaping

but powerfully evoke natural scenery – the original

not in the least appear exotic if placed next to an old

guild. Training focused on traditional techniques

source of inspiration for Japanese gardens and their

Cape-Dutch gable, decorative Xhosa wall, modern

The good news is that what works for a bonsan, scales

for rock arrangement, moss cultivation and pruning

Chinese precedents.

house or with the Franschhoek mountains in the

up to the size of an urban garden. No matter how dry,

background.

the fynbos out there survives the blistering heat. With

of peaks and slopes matter most.

of garden-sized bonsai trees, and took place in the

At the same time, I could feel the imagery of the

meticulously manicured gardens of some of the

veld of my youth calling. Having recently returned to

Thanks to its Japanese roots, bonsan is free of Euro-

this style of landscaping, it may well serve as an original,

foremost Zen temples in Japan. Slowly but surely the

South Africa from Kyoto, I finally had a chance to begin

centric and Afro-centric baggage. It literally is living

indigenous garden metaphor that can withstand the

aesthetic of the discipline began to sink in, until my

quenching this thirst by making the first bonsan, here in

landscape artwork; properly framed by a beautiful

drought, serve as an urban biodiversity reservoir, and

eyes could effortlessly analyse and eliminate, leaving a

Franschhoek. With water-wise gardening on everyone’s

ceramic or bronze container. At the scale of the bonsan

bring an aesthetic sense of belonging to this part of the

garden with only the essence of landscape.

mind, I was happy to discover that moss does not only

pot, the aim is to capture impressions of a natural

continent as never before.

As I became an expert on Japanese gardens, foreign

grow everywhere you look, but the Cape mosses nearly

location, not its literal recreation in the style of a model

visitors to Kyoto wanted demonstrations of garden

all grow in sand and most are adapted to withstand

train enthusiast: the essential shape, colour and texture

Text & Image: Dr Gert van Tonder

mm/year

Rainfall Figures Measured at La Cotte/Nerina Street

2008 1217mm

2009 978mm

2013 1471mm

2014 1033mm

mm/month

2017

FRANSCHHOEK’S SPECIALIST PAINT SHOP

All paints ordered from us are delivered by this classic!

Pop in and meet our team

hamilton’s

ENVIROLITE 021 876 2082

SHOWROOM: Unit 80C Village Artisan, Cabrière Street, Franschhoek franschhoek@paintsmiths.co.za

January February March April May June July August September October November December

2010 740mm 2015 661mm

2011 2012 830mm 1079mm 2016 754mm

2017 501mm

Dam Levels

2018

MONTH

ACCUMULATIVE

MONTH

ACCUMULATIVE

28 1 11 19 17 136 58 87 25 55 54 10

28 29 40 59 76 212 270 357 382 437 491 501

4 22 23 84 109 227 108 104 113 12

4 26 49 133 242 469 577 681 794 806

As at 12 November 2018 Steenbras Upper

69.0%

Steenbras Lower

84.3%

Wemmershoek

90.0%

Voelvlei

93.9%

Theewaterskloof

57.1%

Berg River Dam

98.5%

Total Storage

73.4%

Total Storage this time last year

37.0%

20 | December 2018

Book Review

CHARLOTTE VAN ZYL

with Kevin Hill, optometrist at Pinz Nez Your practice name has a strange spelling, how did it come about?

It’s an adaptation of Pince nez which in French means pinch nose, the name given to earlier spectacles without temples (side arms).

What are the differences between an optometrist, an optician and an ophthalmologist and how do their fields connect?

An optician has completed a three-year diploma, and is knowledgeable re optical lenses, frames, frame repairs, fitting of lenses, lens materials and generally will advise best options to fulfill the optometrists prescription. An optometrist has completed a four-year degree, and is knowledgeable re optical prescriptions and ocular pathology. An ophthalmologist is a specialist doctor in eyes. Most take 12 to 13 years to qualify.

Their role is to medicate and operate on the eyes.

What were the options for spectacles 100 years ago?

Fused bifocals were available from 1908, polarised sunglasses from 1929, commercial varifocals (multifocals) from 1955. Most earlier lenses were glass, but today most are a polymer.

When was the first known optical lens made?

By 750 BC there were “reading stones” made of polished crystal/quartz.

What is the latest developments in optometry?

Digitally lathed lenses that allow optical mathematical knowledge to be applied to the manufacturing process. Blue control anti-reflection coating that protects the eye against modern-day

high levels of exposure to dangerous high energy visible (HEV) light emitted by most electronic media e.g. smart phones, TVs, computers, iPads, etc.

Will spectacles always be with us?

I suspect for a long time still due to the cost factor and embryonic advances in ocular prosthesis.

What would be the rarest thing for an optometrist to see in a practice?

There are many variations, just to mention a few: Haemolacria – crying tears of blood; Polycria – two pupils in one eye; Heterochromia – two different colored eyes; Cat eyes – incomplete iris and Micropthalmia – minute eyes.

What is the funniest thing you have experienced with a customer?

It has happened on two different occasions that the person was convinced their vision had deteriorated, only to call me a miracle worker after I presented them with their own spectacles that I had cleaned.

What do you do in your leisure time?

Spend time with my son Keyan and wife Yolande and then soccer, golf, reading and watching sport.

You are known for saying you prefer quality of life over turnover – what do you mean?

Franschhoek’s turnover potential for my practice is limited by its inherent demographic size compared to say the Northern or Southern suburbs, but the enjoyment my family and I have had in living here in this “international” village for the past 12 years negates that limit.

Goodbye Vitamin

By Rachel Khong Publ: Scribner. 198 pages.

For quite a while I misread the title of the book as “Goodbye Vietnam,” misled by an echo of the Robin Williams’ movie “Good Morning Vietnam” and also by the name of the author. Well, that teaches me to read properly.

The title comes from a very quiet joke perpetrated by one of the main characters who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, who regularly pops his daily pills with a cheerful “Hallo aspirin!

Goodbye vitamin!”

This ironic attitude to Alzheimer’s is typical of the tone of this intelligent, funny short novel which marks the debut of Rachel Khong, the latest in a crop of ultra-smart Ivy Leagueeducated young women writers.

Many recent novels have imaginatively explored the influence that mental conditions have on the actions of people; for instance, the effect of Asperger’s Syndrome in both “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime” and in “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close”. These two titles have been made into movies and the first one into an incredible play as well.

The book on Alzheimer’s that most people have read is “Still Alice”, which was also made into a movie. Neither Lisa Genova (the author) nor Rachel Khong approaches the subject in a sentimental or maudlin way. Both writers, in very different ways, use the condition to explore the connection between the disease and the use of language.

In “Goodbye Vitamin” Rachel Wong offers a sympathetic portrait of the dilemma that Ruth Young, a young college drop-out, faces when she decides to stay on in the family home to help cope with the deteriorating memory and diminishing command of language of her father, a retired professor.

One of the hilarious methods she invents is sneaking him into his former college, finding an unoccupied lecture hall and packing it with sympathetic friends and students. Like an old warhorse, the professor sniffs the academic air

Author Rachel Khong

and proceeds to deliver perfectly acceptable, if repetitive lectures.

However, Ruth also discovers dark places in the family’s history as the professor’s synapses misfire and he confuses a meeting with his lover with a romantic dinner with his wife. There are several such instances, all of which are recorded by Ruth in her diary. The diary-form makes the novel proceed in episodic spurts, often very funny, but also in a curious way reflecting the way that the old man experiences his reality.

The main story, however, is about the crisis that the 30-year old Ruth finds herself in when she is crudely and unexpectedly dumped by her lover.

Having run back home to recover, her mother persuades her to stay and assist with the father.

She reluctantly agrees and relapses into a sort of late-adolescence haze of parties and near-affairs.

Luckily, the account of the deterioration of the professor’s mind does not become a grim chronicle of loss. It is Ruth’s chirpy good humour that sees the absurdity of a fine mind getting it all wrong.

Apart from the comic aspects of Alzheimer (like finding the old man’s pants up a tree for no apparent reason) there are also tender moments as Khong finds beauty in the breakdown of knowledge and language. She also finds a new dimension of understanding of this affliction.

“Lately I’m more forgiving. I used to be very quick to judge the old men who don’t know that, when you are walking past them on the sidewalk where they are sweeping leaves, they should stop sweeping. But it now occurs to me that these old men have maladies –diseases that affect their manners – and should be pardoned.”

This is a kind and witty, and very readable, novel.

Images: Simon & Schuster UK

A PROUD SPONSOR OF...

December 2018 | 21

Music Alchemy JAMES STEWART

Hipster beards, ironic trousers and vinyl.

I ambled into a ‘music’ retailer a short while ago.

Inverted commas because most of the shop space was allocated to Play Station and Xbox and their various accessories. While I was surprised, I also wasn’t. Like anyone with kids I obliquely knew that gaming is huge because of Fortnite arguments and massive home data usage.

Another surprise was an entire display wall dedicated to vinyl records. Again, it’s fairly common knowledge that vinyl has made a comeback of late, but the records displayed were classic album re-releases. In a world where the ear-candy hit single has become everything, albums have been usurped by playlists.

In the age of digital everything the resurgence of vinyl almost feels like a glitch. After all, why go through the process of putting on a record when you can just press a button, or let some streaming service do all the work for you? As it turns out, however, a large number of people actually like getting up close and personal with their music. Vinyl sales are on the incline with artists like Ed Sheeran one of a few ‘modern’ artists amongst the classics.

Hipsters have been onto this for years, eschewing all things grubbily commercial; always in search of an authentic, grounded experience to the point of cliché. But I saw no carefully manicured lumberjack beards, ‘ironic’ spectacles or tweed waistcoats circa World War 2 in that music mall. So if they aren’t buying their Pink Floyd, Van Morrison, The Beatles, Dire Straits, Bob Dylan from these fluorescent-lit retail temples, who is? They’ll be found scratching through bric-a-brac shops in recently-gentrified suburbs looking for first editions. It’s so old-school, it’s new school and while a bit ridiculous let’s make no mistake, I’m all for the ‘album experience’.

When streaming music or listening

to a playlist, there often comes an ADD-like tendency to skip tracks in the middle of a song or bounce around from artist to artist. In the golden age of the album, the soul and identity of the artist could be discovered in amongst the perfunctory radio hits, which were a record company requirement to sell us into a journey which forged a relationship between fans, together with a different level of appreciation of the music which would last a lifetime. How far we’ve had to stray to find that convenience offers very little in the way of creative stimulation.

Furthermore, I’m up to venture further beyond the digital album experience into the ‘no remote’ territory. ‘Playing a record’ is a truly hands on analogue affair where changing the track requires getting up and moving the stylus (coinciding with pouring another glass of wine or putting the cat out). The immersive ritual; physically holding that broad-square album cover, removing the shiny grooved plastic from its protective sleeve with deliberate care (thumb on the outer edge, middle finger in the centre-hole), placing it on its spinning altar, dropping the arm and hearing the soft crackle punctuate the silence with anticipation as the stylus finds its groove.

Curiouser and Curiouser Much praise has been heaped upon the stage production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. Many Franschhoekers had read the Mark Haddon book and the Culture Vultures were determined not to miss the new stage production scripted by Simon Stephens. The play had been selected to feature as the opening drama for the revamped Theatre on the Bay in October and it suited them perfectly.

The plan came together on a very warm spring evening in our valley. Leopard’s Leap bubbly and wines were chilled, snacks were packed and a bus was waiting. No matter that the bus’s air conditioning was faulty, the intrepid Franschhoekers opened some windows and breathed in the cool evening air.

In what seemed like no time at all, Patrick stopped the bus in front of the theatre door in Camps Bay. The well-dressed group filed out, into the smart new foyer where they collected their tickets.

The play was amazing. What most thought to be an impossible story to convert into a script, worked extremely well with the help of the innovative sound and lighting design. The cast handled

Community Events SPORT

New Apostolic Church: Le Roux Street, Groendal.

Franschhoek Cycling Club Outrides: Regular

Sundays

Roman Catholic Church: Mass every 2nd Saturday of the month at the Methodist Church, Bagatelle

07h00 in summer. To check times in shoulder

St, 073 488 6816.

seasons contact Paul Barkley. 083 302 9096.

Shofar Christian Church: Services: 09h00 English

Franschhoek Tennis Club: Social tennis is played

service at 7 Lambrechts Street. 18h00 Afrikaanse

at the club on Fridays, Sundays and Public Holidays

diens by Franschhoek Rugbyklub, Groendal. Pastor

from 08h00. For more information contact Ross.

Richard Wade. 083 225 8529. All welcome!

www.parkrun.co.za Methodist Church: Sunday service 09h00. Rev Nuno Vergueiro. 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509.

NG Kerk: Sondagdienste 09h30. Geen aanddiens.

Ds Peet Bester. 021 876 2431. Besoekers welkom.

-Grade 12 -Retail experience is a plus -Experience with working with people The job involves but is not limited to: -Jewellery sales- Predominantly -Managing/maintaining of general stock, diamond stock and consignment stock -Operation of our computer jewellery sales program (invoicing, payments, etc.)- JSK -Assisting with maintaining and managing the shop environment -Following up with customers about quotes and repairs The applicant must have the following character traits: -Friendly, approachable and self confident– a people’s person -Well groomed with a professional demeanour -Good communication skills (bilingual) -The ability to solve problems -Good organizing skills -Must be able to work as a team Salary will commensurate with experience.

-CV -References -Recent photograph of yourself to: sales@penchantdesign.com

Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Rector Fr Joe Humbles. 073 560 3566. at L’Ermitage Chapel, with Holy Communion.

Weekday service Thursday at 10h30 at Fleur de Lis. Contact Gavin – 083 799 0726.

Uniting Reformed Church: Sunday service 09h30.

Dr Shaun Burrows. 021 876 2632. Visitors welcome.

NOTIFICATION OF AN INTEGRATED WATER USE LICENCE APPLICATION (IWULA) PROCESS IN TERMS OF SECTION 21 OF THE NATIONAL WATER ACT, 1998 (ACT NO. 36 OF 1998) (NWA) FOR VARIOUS WATER USE ACTIVITIES ON THE VIGNE D’ OR FARM, LOCATED BETWEEN STELLENBOSCH AND FRANSCHHOEK, WESTERN CAPE PROVINCE

DESIGN

The applicant must have the following qualifications/experience:

St George’s Anglican Church: Groot Drakenstein.

Trinity Church: Worship every Sunday at 09h30

CHURCH SERVICES

The position requires the selling of our handmade fine jewellery with diamonds, coloured gemstones and standard stock items in our shop front. We also have a diamond division that is included as part of the sales and this would need to be managed closely by keeping up on standard stock, managing consignment stock, following up with suppliers and quoting. We also specialise in custom designed and handmade make-ups (we have a workshop on the premises) for ‘walk-in’ customers, and this would be a key function of the successful applicant.

Rector:

followed by coffees. Meet at 08h00, winter months,

Estate. Time: 08h00. Cost: Free. Register at

The Penchant Design brand is exciting, innovative, very distinct and utterly feminine. It is also growing and developing and as such we are excited to be looking for a dynamic and dedicated individual, who has a passion for Sales, customer service and for people. We have a position available from the 1st of December 2018 in Franschhoek for a Jewellery Sales Consultant.

19h30.

to Stellenbosch/Jonkershoek and back (75km)

Parkrun: Saturdays at Rickety Bridge Wine

Jewellery Sales Consultant In Franschhoek

Wednesdays

road rides on Saturday mornings from BP garage

078 278 4843.

S P E C I A L I T Y J E W E L L E RY A N D D I A M O N D S WITH EXTRA CREAM

09h00,

Charles Leibrandt.

®

**Please E-mail us your:

everything asked of them with skill, not to mention Kai Brummer’s mind-boggling delivery of reams and reams of text. Kudos also to Paul Warwick Griffin, the director.

After joining in loud applause and feeling culturally satisfied when the show ended, the group exited the theatre and boarded the bus in the street outside. A comfortable ride home later, it was “Goodbye and good night until next time!” as everyone went their separate ways.

If you would like to receive information on future outings, please send your name, cell phone number and email address to news@ franschhoektatler.co.za

DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND SANITATION (DWS) GCS REFERENCE NO: 16-0648 Notice is hereby given in terms of Chapter 4, Section 41(4) of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act No.36 of 1998) (NWA); of the Integrated Water Use License Application (IWULA) process being undertaken

by GCS Water and Environment (Pty) Ltd (GCS). The process is being undertaken on behalf of Skyline Investments for the activities identified in terms of Section 21 of the NWA ( the abstraction of groundwater from the borehole, storage of water in a dam, and irrigation areas are located within 500m of the wetland) that are taking place on the Vigne d’ Or Farm.

The Vigne d’ Or Farm (Remaining extent of the farm Moddervalley 1417) is located between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek and is adjacent to the R301 and is owned by Skyline Investments (Pty) Ltd. The farm is located in the Western Cape Province of South Africa within the Berg Water Management Area 19 (WMA 19). Government Notice Regulation 267, Regulations Regarding the Procedural Requirements for Water Use Licence Applications and Appeals published in Government Gazette 40713 on 24 March 2017 provides that the competent authority, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), requires the applicant to place a suitable notice in newspapers and other media, and to take other reasonable steps as directed by GNR.267 to bring the application to the attention of relevant organs of state, interested persons and the general public.

The abstraction and storage of water triggers water uses in terms of Section 21(a) and Section 21(b) of the NWA. There is also a wetland located in the property. The dam and the irrigation areas are located within 500 of the wetland boundary and as a result, Section 21(c) and (i) water uses are also triggered.

The following water uses require authorisation for the Integrated Water Use Licence Application (IWULA) in terms of Section 21 of the NWA: WATER USE DESCRIPTION

TRIGGERED BY

Section 21 of the NWA 21 (a)

Taking of water from a water resource

Abstraction of water from the farm dam and a borehole for the purpose of irrigation

21 (b)

Storing water

The storage of water in the farm dam

21 (c) & (i)

Impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse; and Altering the bed, banks, course or characteristics of a watercourse

Dam located within tributary of the Berg River Irrigation areas located within 500m of the wetland

You are hereby invited to register as an Interested and Affected Party (I&AP), to participate in the stakeholder engagement process, as well as to raise any issues or concerns about the proposed project, or to submit suggestions regarding the project. As a registered I&AP, you will receive further information and will be kept informed of the decisions taken by the competent authorities.

Should you wish to register as an I&AP or to receive a background information document, with additional details on the project, please contact Kate Cain via Tel: 011 803 5726, Fax: 011 803 5745, E-mail: kate@gcs-sa.biz or Post: PO Box 2597, Rivonia, 2128 on/before 7 January 2018. Please note that this date includes time for comments to be received by registered I&APs. The IWULA report is accessible for download and comment from http://www.gcs-sa.biz/

22 | December 2018

Smalls STUFF WANTED: All manner of clothing and household items needed for our ‘First Friday of The Month’ jumble sales.

Please help us to help the animals of the valley. Please drop of at the clinic in La Provence Street, Groendal, or phone for us to collect. 021 876 4808 ASSISTANCE OFFERED: I am a caring, friendly older woman who can assist you in your house, shop or office. I can run errands or drive you around.

Available afternoons, evenings or weekends. 083 270 9555.

CHANGING TO A SALT WATER SYSTEM? Let us advise & quote for you!

Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355

and belongings. Franschhoek only.

Contact Sue 083 270 9555.

PROFESSIONAL POOL SERVICE REQUIRED? Keep it local! Get a quote.

Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 POOL PUMP PROBLEMS? Noise? We quote and help you out! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND SHORT TERM LETTING service and hosting.

Frans 081 858 2966 Bill 076 598 4099 RE-THINKING YOUR GARDEN? For Garden Consulting call Susan at 072 932 5393

RE-FIBRE GLASS YOUR POOL in any colour you like. Call RiaPools for a quote: 072 347 5355

FRESH, ORGANIC FARM PRODUCE: Delivered weekly to Franschhoek, including vegetables and fruit in season, chicken, eggs, cheese, honey, etc. Lists of available produce received on Monday, orders placed on Tuesday for Wednesday delivery. A number of Franschhoekers are already receiving weekly deliveries. To be added to the list contact Sue Norman on 083 321 3442 or suesgardens@telkomsa.net.

PET SITTER/HOUSESITTER/ CARETAKER. I am a responsible, mature woman who adores animals. I can also supervise domestic staff, pool/ garden maintenance, car care etc. You can trust me with your precious pets

PUBLIC SPEAKING / LEADERSHIP: Paarl Communicators, part of Agora International, assists in the development of public speaking, communication and leadership skills. Once-off joining fee of R200, then R65 per meeting,

DO YOU STILL HAVE THAT POOL LEAK? Loosing water all the time? Let us quote and take care of the problem! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355

which included a light dinner & tea/ coffee. Meetings held as Villa Visaggio outside Paarl. Contact Len van der Walt – 082 579 2994. Booking essential.

PAARL TOASTMASTERS CLUB: Interested in the view outside your comfort zone? Paarl Toastmasters will assist in public speaking, communication and confidence to speak in front of people. Please contact Lynette Bester 082 418 4748 for membership, guests or just even to become a Toastmasters friend. Our events are held every 4th Thursday of the month at Simonsvlei Wines in Paarl.

Booking essential.

W e Va lu e A l l As s e t s gavin.c@thevaluator.co.za T: 0861 659 659 C: + 27 82 900 5385 www.thevaluator.co.za

DRIVER LOOKING FOR WORK: Have references from people in the village for whom I have worked for 9 years and 10 years respectively. School runs, airport runs etc. Also able to act as handyman.

Please contact Esau Floris 060 387 2775 HOUSE SITTER AVAILABLE: Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Riebeeck Kasteel from January onwards.

Deeply caring nature for animals and life. References available. Please call Ansie Chorn on Cell 0785724977 JOB WANTED: Maintenance/driver, Code 10/restaurant general / garden / pool / housekeeping. I am a 29 year old, church going, Malawian man looking for a job. I am honest, friendly and experienced and live in Franschhoek.

References available. Please contact me on 083 359 1109 LOOKING FOR HOUSEKEEPING JOB: My name is Mercy, I am Malawian. I have five years’ experience. I am hard working and friendly. For more information, please call me on 083 523 6288 / 078 827 4170. For reference call 083 700 4036

WWW.FRANSCHHOEKHOSPITALITYACADEMY.CO.ZA

SHOP ASSISTANT needed for busy dried fruit & wine shops Must reside in Franschhoek Valley, have matric, no criminal record. Previous similar experience an advantage.

CAP

CAP CLASSIQUE CLASSIQUE

presents renowned pianists Please forward your CVpresents to renowned pianists info@wineconnexion.co.za

Nina Schumann Nina Schumann & Luis Magalhães & Luis Magalhães performing Beethoven performing Beethoven & Rachmaninoff & Rachmaninoff

2 December Sunday 2Sunday December 11:00 NG Church,

11:00 NG Church, Franschhoek Franschhoek TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR

FRENCH FRENCH film film festival festival First weekend First weekend in October in October 20192019

December October 2018 2018 || 23 19

Member of the Institute of Plumbing South Africa

www.fhplumbing.co.za

Email: floormasterstell@gmail.com

Tel: 021 876 3759 Cell: 073 007 6001 or Cell: 082 875 6014

+27 (0)21 876 3640 Unit A, Fabriek Nationale No 1, 9 Fabriek street, Franschhoek 7690 herman@franschhoekelectric.co.za www.franschhoekelectric.co.za

Copyright: All rights reserved, reproduction in whole or part prohibited. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the editor. Publication of editorial or advertising matter does not imply endorsement or warranty in respect of goods or services therin described.

074 313 7829

Very hard

24 | December 2018

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Jyotish Vedic Magic Sudoku Astrology ROBERT RITTEL

Useful Numbers

Sudoku #4741

ACCOUNTANTS Tax Shop

021 876 2676

ATTORNEYS

Franschhoek High School

021 876 2079

Groendal Primary School

021 876 2448

Groendal Secondary School

021 876 2211

Susan Charlesworth

021 876 2592/072 402 9469

Wes-Eind Primary School

021 876 2360

Snipelisky & Killian

083 250 0943/021 876 2084

Dalubuhle Primary School

021 876 3957

BURGLAR ALARMS Pepler Alarms

CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS Boland Bridge Club

Franschhoek Tennis Club Franschhoek Trust & RPA Grt. Drak Games Club Lions

Stellenbosch Masonic Lodge (Chris) Franschhoek Rotary Club

Franschhoek Probus Club ELECTRICAL

Franschhoek Electric Rensburg Electrical EXCAVATIONS

Andrew Schmidt

Burger Excavations HEALTH & BEAUTY

021 876 3308 021 876 3031 078 278 4843 021 876 3460 021 874 1906 021 876 3775 072 211 9991 082 773 9217 021 876 3179

082 823 7119/021 876 3640 021 876 2120/083 309 2923 021 876 4431/082 972 5755 072 3408518

Franschhoek Pharmacy

021 876 2261

Franschhoek Health Club

021 876 3310

STORAGE Franschhoek Storage

021 876 2174

TOURIST INFORMATION & SERVICES Info Office

021 876 3603

Winelands Experience

021 876 4042

Huguenot Memorial Museum

021 876 2532

TRANSPORT GOODS Gerald Fourie

021 876 2940/082 821 5234

VETERINARY Franschhoek Animal Clinic (plus surgery) Emergencies/Weekends

021 876 2504

021 863 3187 or 082 8089 100

EMERGENCY NUMBERS Stellenbosch Fire Dept. (Buildings on fire)

021 808 8888

Cape Winelands Distr.Muni. (Bush & veld fires)

021 887 4446

021 886 9244

Police Eskom

10111/021 876 8061 086 003 7566

Omnipage Farm Watch

021 852 3318

Plaaswag

021 876 2346

Medium

HOUSE & GARDEN

N1, N2 & R300 Emergency number:

021 946 1646

DENTISTS

Clock Repairs

028 840 1716

Dr Schalk du Plessis

021 876 3070

Lighting & Accessories

021 876 3640

Dr Rob Hammer

021 876 2634

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PHYSIOTHERAPY Claire Horn PLUMBERS

Franschhoek Plumbing PUBLIC SERVICES Hospice Library

Post Office

Welfare (ACVV) SPCA SCHOOLS

Bridge House School

072 932 5393 021 876 3921 021 876 3025 021 872 3530

021 876 4234/082 582 1029 021 876 3759 021 876 3085 021 808 8406 021 876 2342 021 876 2670 021 876 4808 021 874 8100

DOCTORS Dr Karin Eksteen Dr Shelley Hellig

021 876 4622 021 871 1063

Dr Alexander Heywood

021 876 2474

Dr Hannes Van der Merwe

021 876 2304

Dr Nicolas Els

021 876 2561

AUDIOLOGIST Audiologist Tracy-Ann Morris

084 264 0000

EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONSE Medicare EMR

074 363 7744/021 876 4316

MUNICIPALITY (Ward 1) Councillor Frazenburg (DA)

021 808 8490

(Ward 2) Councillor Petersen (DA)

082 404 5055

(Ward 3) Councillor Manuel (DA)

074 686 2364

(Ward 4) Councillor Johnson (DA)

021 808 8019

Municipality (Office Hours)

021 808 8700

Municipality (afternoon only)

021 808 8890

Municipality 24hr Service

021 808 8700

Easy

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Marelise Bester

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OPTOMETRIST

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PostNet

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Franschhoek Photolab

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INTERNET ACCESS

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Sue’s Gardens

021 876 2612/072 347 5355

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Magic Sudoku

Ria Pools (Franschhoek)

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Very hard

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Solutions

I bet a schoolboy error? (8,7) 2,3 Doctor might fnd One Direction to be the dark secret of a child? (8,5) 4 Cheese, be mouldy please! (3,5) 5 Saint and queen accessing two narrow areas (6) 6 I help with church lesson, issue lost on some figure (9) 7,22 Row attributed to nuclear test site, sensitive area? (6,4) 8 In course of lifespan, is home let temporarily? It’s standard fare in Europe (7,8) 15 This is right, one viewed from the south in fact? (4,5) 17 Las Vegas employee with a worse lung problem? (8) 18 Artist has designed action that’s perfect for a British summer? (8) 20 Second best joker (6) 21 Covering bottom of utensil, often slippery — is it? (6) 23,16 US songwriter, guy who tried, when suffering, to inspire love (5,7)

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DOWN 1 Period in gym when core ignored,

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oku.com

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ACROSS 9 A 20, exceptionally rare (9) 10 Bound to hold money at first, spend less (5) 11 Punk is beaten up by fifty associates (5,2) 12 Coarse material from a Nazi leader? (7) 13 Inhabiting Transylvania, Gothic villain (4) 14 Children recalled eating meat, one in balls (10) 16 See 23 17 Hail on moon, mind how you go (7) 19 Fashionable bit about page viewing (10) 22 See 7 24 Motorway exit? That’s not sexy (4-3) 25 A stinker, abominable clue getting some stick (4,3) 26 Into clothes runs a snake (5) 27 Too simple, might you say, to secure capital in retrospect — could this help? (9)

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Aries, 21 March – 19 April: Mars in transit through Pisces speaks of a picture where energies get spend on impressions. Undermining your truth will not help, unconscious habits become active without you knowing it. Becoming completely conscious of one self, makes one a Guru; his impressions of contentedness come with a smile, evolution is just another mile.

Taurus, 20 April – 20 May: When Venus – the lord of this sign – dwells in the Scorpion’s water it is very stimulating to endorphins’ intensity.

Transformations in emotional equilibrium will challenge intimate truth. Venus in her refined frequency creates space for psychological necessities. Making love the teacher, results in teaching what needs teaching most.

Gemini, 21 May – 20 June: Mercury will meet Jupiter in Sagittarius; Mercury loves Jupiter because he so big, while Jupiter thinks Mercury is so small.

This is reflective of the thinking process of denial and overestimating potential. Many feel, a few think, and fewer still can express their thoughts.

Cancer, 21 June – 22 July: The family is the nucleus of civilisation. The home of our childhood, family roots are the soil in which our identity learned to grow. Emotional experience established psychological patterns. The remembrance of ourselves contains wonder and will awaken wings for flight.

Leo, 23 July – 22 August: No matter how old you get, if you can keep the desire to be creative, you keep the spirit young. Joy is the power in which all conspiracies become beauties. Love will entertain; the lesson needing to be taught.

Virgo, 23 August – 22 September: While Mercury is in an overwhelming awe of Jupiter, focus and pace become crucial in this obligation. Being of service, takes away the meaningless in all

conclusions. Refinement is a process of vigilance and effort. We work to become and not to acquire.

Libra, 23 September – 22 October: ‘No man is an island’ is the message here; how we meet the other, project, integrate and assert ourselves. As the Sun joins Jupiter and Mercury in Sagittarius, the sense of responsibilities with others will play the music. Duty becomes the pleasure desired by an honest soul.

Scorpio, 23 October – 21 November: Those Venusian characters are in the deep water of the scorpion’s demeanour, forbidden fruits and healing potion. Vanity is hidden behind every impulse, which brings out the worst and the best. Kali Yuga, the Indian goddess, has this characteristic, she destroys the ignorance bestowed for healing.

Sagittarius, 22 November – 21 December: This month Sagittarius is happily enriched with Jupiter’s coming home to this constellation. You’ll have a good year when ethical values are the light in your charm, stepping stones for a new circle to begin. The evidence of prophesy is the personality of the prophet.

Capricorn, 22 December – 19 January: The mystical story never ends, for every individual has a place to fill in this world, whether one chooses to be or not. The liberation in all earnestness comes with joy of the heart making love an art. In every corner in your soul’s eternal journey there is an altar to a different god.

Aquarius, 20 January – 18 February: The ideal creates values in collective identities of higher selves. A collective conscious of affiliation shares their talents in the gallery of self-expression.

Devotion gives all, and then love keeps back nothing. Pursuing the impossible is the best game there is.

Pisces, 19 February - 20 March: Try to see how your intention works counter to your actions. It causes others to doubt your actions. Faults and virtues are found on the bridge of self recrimination.

All learning becomes pale once divine knowledge begins to shine. There is a right side to every wrong and a wrong side to every right.

Solution of Sudoku #4741

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c ⃝2005-2018 http://www.PrintSudoku.com

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Cryptic Crossword

5

December 2018 | 25

Global Award for Val De Vie Estate Light-filled contemporary home Newly re-designed and completely

modernized house with all

bedrooms en-suite, a large openplan double-volume lounge, kitchen

and entertaining area with fully opening stacking doors connecting

to a very spacious undercover terrace,

galler y and pool area with a wooden deck.

The master bedroom has an intimate

open bath area and separate shower

room. Away from the bedroom side is

a large third bedroom with its own

bathroom and French doors leading

to the pool area. This separate suite is perfectly positioned as a guest room.

The kitchen and scullery areas are

Val de Vie Estate was awarded the best multigenerational resort in the World in 2018 at The Globals ceremony in London on 8 November 2018.

CEO and Founder of Val de Vie Estate, Martin Venter, commented: “After just over ten years Val de Vie Estate has now matured and the award as the top multigenerational estate in the world is testament to that. It was always my vision to create a place for families to spend their most precious time. There is a richness in a community where multiple generations live together, adding value to each other’s lives.”

Val de Vie Evergreen launched in 2017 and the inclusion of this development in the greater Val de Vie Estate has created an unrivalled lifestyle offering due to its diverse property portfolio, ranging from hotel rooms to small farms, and wide range of outdoor and recreational facilities on an estate with the reputation as the safest in Africa.

The Global Awards have been created to celebrate and reward the best individual and company performances in Seniors Housing/Care Trends, Healthcare IT, Apps/Digital Innovation, Disability Housing and Care Services and Medical Tourism sectors worldwide. The Awards recognize the rapid growth of these sectors worldwide, and the capacity of individuals to influence and set new performance standards across countries, regions and the world.

The Awards focus on elevated performance, the creation of new business models, contrarian thinking, recognising and embracing new trends, market leaderships, inspirational performance and the elevation of the customer experience. www.theglobals.net | www.valdevie.co.za Text: Editorial Desk | Image: Val de Vie

specifically designed and

handcrafted to the latest trends and fully fitted with top quality equipment.

Disguised stairs lead to a completely

insulated attic area to be turned into

R7 800 000

office or play & TV room.

An efficient JØTUL woodburner

creates warmth and atmosphere in

t h i s co n te m p o ra r y a n d we l l proportioned home.

Also see: www.privateproperty.co.za Web reference: T2055545

Frans Baerveldt 081 858 2966 fransb@just.property

021 020 1615 | 5 Reservoir Street, Franschhoek | www.just.property

26 | December 2018

Rawson Property Group recognised for innovation at Global Brands Awards The Rawson Property Group was recently announced as the winner of not one, but two prestigious Global Brand Awards: Best Real Estate Marketing Brand (South Africa) and Most Innovative Real Estate Brand (South Africa).

According to Tony Clarke, the Group’s Managing Director, these accolades (organised and awarded by the highly-respected Global Brands Magazine) serve as very welcome recognition of the need for innovation in the real estate industry.

“The property industry, globally, is going through a challenging transitional phase,” he explains. “The traditional model, as it was ten or fifteen years ago, just doesn’t work for modern buyers and sellers.

“Some brands are choosing to address this changing landscape by replacing service-driven models with technology.

That’s not our approach at Rawson – we firmly believe that service is still at the heart of our industry, and that digital innovations can never replace the knowledge and experience of our agents. Technology is an extremely valuable tool for enhancing efficiency and efficacy, but it’s only one part of our Rawson story. Our real innovation is

our use of technology to support our amazing agents, and to make property easier and more approachable for everyone involved.”

While the Rawson Property Group may be best known among competitors for its cutting-edge valuation tool, this is far from the only platform that contributed to the Group’s innovation award.

“We’re very proud of our valuation tool, which is a great example of how we combine data-driven insights with hands-on knowledge,” says Clarke, “but we have a lot more going on behind the scenes, adding value.

Rawson Engage, for example, is our back-end platform that keeps our agents constantly in-touch and informed. It not only makes them faster and more efficient at their day-to-day processes, it also facilitates a number of additional services that add a huge amount of value to our Rawson clients.”

Adding value to clients – and the public in general – has always been a key tenet of the Rawson Property Group, and this hasn’t been forgotten in the brand’s innovation efforts.

“Providing advice and information on all aspects of property is a big part of why we do what we do,” says Clarke. “This industry

can seem very intimidating and opaque to those who aren’t familiar with it. Our goal is to get rid of the smoke and mirrors and show people that property really can be easy.”

To achieve this, Rawson has built its website with a specific focus on access to information, providing a range of property calculators, a plethora of regularly updated news and advice articles, and even a series of eBooks covering all stages of the property journey. In addition to this, the Engage platform enables Rawson agents to send buyers, sellers, landlords, tenants and property owners on digital “Customer Journeys” using carefully-curated content to support and inform them every step of the way.

“It’s this kind of marriage of personalised service and professionalism, powered by modern technology, that is needed to bring traditional real estate into the 21st century,”

R 5 850 000

says Clarke. “We’re very proud of our awards because they mean we’re making progress in raising the bar for our industry and are staying relevant in an evolving property landscape.”

Despite the recognition of receiving two Global Brands Awards alongside titans like Apple Inc, Amazon and Facebook, Clarke says the Rawson Property Group’s quest for progress is far from over.

“As a brand, we’ll keep pushing the envelope to enable our agents to manage and sell properties more effectively, and empower the public to make better property decisions. I truly believe that traditional real estate still has an important role to play in the modern industry, but only if we embrace innovation and do things a little differently."

Tony Clarke

R 7 900 000

Great income potential

Bygone era

This delightful 3 bed 3 bath home is full of surprises and is set in the quiet gated estate which is within walking distanceofthe centre of the Village. The upstairs main suite has its own TV lounge, gym comfortable size bedroom with loads of cupboards and en-suite bathroom. The fully fitted kitchen has a Gas hob and electric oven. The beautifully appointed living/dining room with gas fireplace opens out onto a real country garden which has different secluded sections all with mountain views. Off the living room is the stunning pub which opens out onto the very secluded and private entertainment/pool area with gas braai and is surrounded by mature trees. Theoversized single garage also houses the laundry. Off the back of the garage is another room with shower which could be used as additional accommodation or a workshop with ownentrance. The enclosed passage way doubles as a “storeroom”. All rooms have temperature controlled units including the kitchen and all the bedrooms, lounge, TV lounge andGym have TV points.

In the heart of the Franschhoek village and within comfortable walking distance of the centre of town is this very special gem which was originally built in 1913 and has been graciously renovated to suite modern living.As you enter this home you walk into a stunning very spacious open living area with fireplace and original tiled floors (underfloor heating covers a portion of the area) which opens out through fold back doors onto an undercover veranda and Jacuzzi area. The beautiful modern kitchen leads off to the left of this room and has a cosy family dining area. To the rightare the bedrooms. The home comprises 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms (mes) with an additional room which could be used as a study, TV lounge or an additional bedroom. The guest toilet is off the living area. The kitchen is fully fitted with ample cupboards and a Eurogasstove. There is an additional storage cupboard which can be used as a pantry/storage space. The formal dining room leads offthe Kitchen and has a beautiful feature of Vintage Aga Stove set against the one wall which is fully operational. There is a very large loft area which could easily beconverted into a very special space –access is up an outside staircase. There is space for an internal staircase to the loft area for more convenient access.The established garden is planted with an assortment of fruit and nut trees and there is a sustainable veggie garden. There is ample space for a pool should you want to put one in. The garage has been converted into a generous size laundry and storeroom for garden tools. And there is a carport for 2 carsThis wonderful old home has it all and should definitely not be missed –please call me for an appointment to view.

Janice Hicks 072 991 6272 · janice.hicks@rawson.co.za · Office - 021 876 4579

Janice Hicks 072 991 6272 · janice.hicks@rawson.co.za · Office - 021 876 4579

December 2018 | 27

An Investment for Pleasure and Profit The Mantis Group, in partnership with Val de Vie Estate, has launched Phase Two of the development of the Pearl Valley Hotel. The success of Phase One has necessitated the additional 40 single suites which will benefit investors and increase occupancies, since the business of large groups and corporate conferences had to be turned away due to an insufficient number of rooms.

A capital investment from R2.2 million affords full sectional-title ownership of a 69m² one-bedroom suite in the second phase of the Pearl Valley Hotel by Mantis. 30 days per year stay in the hotel are included in the investment, and there is the additional benefit of rental income for the remainder of the year.

Added benefits include discounted membership at the Pearl Valley Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course as well as membership to the Mantis loyalty programme. Further opportunities have been generated through this business model, in St. Francis Bay on the Jack Nicklaus The Links course and another Mantis property at Simbithi in KwaZulu Natal. Owners of Pearl Valley Hotel by Mantis suites will be entitled to exchange occupancy nights between all three venues.

Mantis and AccorHotels entered into a joint venture in 2018 in a partnership that will benefit Pearl Valley Hotel owners through its loyalty program, called “Le Club”, with preferred access to over 4500 hotels worldwide.

Val de Vie Estate isconveniently located in the heart of the Cape Winelands, a tranquil environment conveniently close to the business hubs of Stellenbosch and Cape Town, which are respectively 15 minutes and 35 minutes away. An easy 35-minute drive via the new Berg River Bridge Gatehouse from the Cape Town International Airport sets Val de Vie Estate apart as a base for business meetings in one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa.

The estate is an idyllic environment for holidaygoers to unwind and offers parents with children the ultimate relaxation, where the young ones can play, swim and run to their heart’s content. The Valley is synonymous with exceptional food, wine, hospitality and a temperate Mediterranean climate, which attracts not only high net worth South Africans but a cosmopolitan mix of international

residents and visitors.

Named the Best Conditioned course in the Western Cape by Golf Digest Magazine for the last 10 years and awarded the Compleat Golfer’s Five Star Experience Award for six consecutive years, the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course has been ranked amongst the top 10 courses in South Africa

by Golf Digest Magazine every year from 2006 up to and including 2017 and as one the top 5 courses in 2018/2019.

Val de Vie Estate has taken pro-active steps to ensure that the Pearl Valley Hotel by Mantis is entirely ‘water independent’ by constructing a private water filtration plant on the estate in December 2017 that purifies groundwater from a localised aquifer. www.pearlvalleyhotel.com Test: Editorial Desk | Image: Pearl Valley

Belt tightening ahead for home owners as interest rate climbs Home owners and buyers will need to continue tightening their belts as the interest rate climbs and the economic and property market recovery takes longer than hoped, says Stuart Manning, CEO of the Seeff Property Group.

This follows the Reserve Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decision to hike the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6,75% (from 6,50%), increasing the base home loan rate to 10.25% (from 10%).

Seeff had hoped for a stay though and Manning says that despite further inflation creep to 5,1% (although still within the 3%-6% target range), there was still reason to hope for a stay ahead of the festive season which could bring a much needed economic boost.

“Nonetheless, even with this hike, the interest rate is still at some of the best levels in years and the Seeff Group does not expect much of an impact on the property market. The bigger impact is coming from the socio-economic environment and only once some of these issues are resolved are we likely to see the next upward phase”, he says.

“While we are looking forward to a much improved 2019, the reality is that with the general election scheduled for May, it is likely that any uptick will only really be seen from around mid-2019. We are therefore likely to kick off 2019 on much the same foot as we are now and will need to be patient for a while longer.

“Once the May General Election is out of the way and if we get a positive result we will see this translate into more positive sentiment, so critical for the economy and property market.”

Manning continues, “In the meantime, we welcome the busy summer tourist months, a time when there is generally more positive sentiment in the property market. Conditions remain favourable for buyers who are able to find good value given the flat price growth and

Stuart Manning, CEO for the Seeff Property Group

rising stock levels, but don’t wait too long.

“All economies and property markets go through cycles of ups and downs and many will tell you if only they had bought at a particular time. While price growth has flattened, there has been no price devaluation yet and it is still safe to invest in property”, he concludes.

Text & Image: Editorial Desk

28 | December 2018

F RA N S C H H O E K FRANSCHHOEK Office: 021 876 2100 | winelandsint@pamgolding.co.za | pamgolding.com/franschhoek

If you, like us, are captivated by that unique & special something we call the “Flair of Franschhoek”, speak to our area specialists about purchasing a permanent or holiday home, upgrading or downgrading to a new property, or renting a property, or just pop in for a chat with one of our agents with their extensive experience of the area.

Ref# FWI1406860

Franschhoek / R8.95 million Beds 3 / Baths 3 / Garages 1 A beautifully appointed and tastefully modernised classic Franschhoek home. The property creates excellent flow from the living and reception rooms to the outdoor entertainment areas that complement a truly stunning totally private garden and sparkling good sized swimming pool.

Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837 / Doug Gurr 072 610 7208

Ref# FWI1402111

Ref# FWI1402264

Franschhoek / R6.5 million

Franschhoek / R3.65 million (incl VAT)

Bedrooms 4 / Bathrooms 3 / Garages 1 (tandem) This immaculate, short-term rental income generating property is perfectly positioned on a quiet corner plot and offers open plan lounge dining, a spacious master suite with private lounge, heated indoor swimming pool, and wonderful entertainment spaces.

Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837 / Doug Gurr 072 610 7208

Approx total size 1524m² These three stunning plots, available at R3.65 million each, present a rare opportunity to create your dream home in Franschhoek outside of an estate, on a newly approved stand located in a wonderful elevated position in the village.

Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837 / Doug Gurr 072 610 7208

Ref# FWI1407509

Ref# FWI1392404

Franschhoek / R3.3 million

Franschhoek / R2.5 million

Bedrooms 2 / Bathrooms 2 / Parking 1 Stunning income producing apartment located at L’Ermitage, with open plan living dining and kitchen leading onto undercover patio for entertaining. Beautifully furnished and sold fully furnished to move straight in.

Bedrooms 2 / Bathrooms 1 / Parking 1

Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837 / Doug Gurr 072 610 7208

Shelly Schoeman 083 301 8833

Upstairs apartment with stunning mountain and vineyard views, comprised of an open-plan kitchen and living space, wood burning fireplace and French doors opening to the balcony. Live a harmonious lifestyle nestled among the vines in this exclusive security estate with communal pool and clubhouse.

December 2018 | 29

30 | December 2018

Harcourts Winelands harcourtswinelands.co.za

SIMPLY STYLISH & UNIQUE Designed by well-known Cape Architect, Simon McCullagh, this contemporary design immediately attracts one. Designed simply and elegantly along the concept of a series of

For Sale R13 900 000 5 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms Study Melina Visser 082 419 9928 harcourts.co.za/WWS9765

interlinked barns – the buildings are joined together to create interesting exterior spaces.

Rooms flow in and out of the home creating “open air” rooms and terraces flow right out of the internal living spaces leading the eye to the stunning mountain and vineyard vistas.

ENCHANTING VILLAGE VILLA Gently recessed and built on the top end of the property set in an enchanting parklike garden setting, this charming villa comprises of 3 generous sized bedrooms on the upper level and a well-designed study.

The downstairs living areas stylishly interact with each other with the kitchen, lounge and dining areas complementing each other. The home is lavish in finishes and the sandstone flooring and chandeliers give it a warm and inviting ethos.

For Sale R8 500 000 Adell Ferreira 083 964 1155 harcourts.co.za/WWS9963

December 2018 | 31

32 | December 2018

Local expertise, national presence and international audience

FRANSCHHOEK

R3 500 000 PLUS VAT

IMMACULATE TWO BEDROOM GROUND FLOOR APARTMENT Set in established well-managed complex within walking distance of the village high street this gorgeous ground floor apartment is ideally located with a quiet village position, a contained 54m2 garden and mountain views.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114 Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

FRANSCHHOEK

R7 950 000

CONTEMPORARY TWO-BEDROOM HOME ON FRANSCHE HOEK ESTATE On sole mandate. Boasting probably the best views in Franschhoek, this is the ideal home for the busy executive couple, jet-setting retiree or small family on one of South Africa’s Top 10 Estates. As featured in Home and Garden Magazine, this property sits comfortably in a landscape surrounded by indigenous fynbos, vineyards and olive groves on the slopes of the Drakenstein mountains and benefits from state-of-the-art security.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114 | Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

FRANSCHHOEK

R6 950 000

THREE BEDROOM FRANSCHE HOEK ESTATE On sole mandate. Stunning classic, contemporary home set amongst vineyards. Large open plan living areas and three bedrooms en-suite.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114 Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

FRANSCHHOEK

R 19 950 000

IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN - FRANSCHHOEK ESTATE On sole mandate. A truly distinctive home, with no expense spared in both the build quality and the finishes, characterised by generous living areas both inside and out with a focus on year-round comfort whether you are fireside, poolside or just relaxing on the deep covered terrace. Includes: entrance hall; double-volume lounge/dining room; separate winter lounge; breakfast room; open-plan solid timber kitchen; large covered terrace; library; four en-suite bedrooms; upstairs TV lounge, double garage, north-facing landscaped gardens with pool and private bore-hole.

Tom Clode 079 955 3114 | Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

Head Office Franschhoek Office 29 Autumn Rivonia, 7690 23 Huguenot Street,Street, Franschhoek, JHB, 2191 +27 (0)21 876 3322 +27 (0)11 234 6545 franschhoek@fineandcountry.com support.sa@fineandcountry.com

Park Lane Office 119/121 Park Lane, London, W1 +44 (0)207 079 1515 admin@fineandcountry.com

FRANSCHHOEK

R15 950 000

4 BEDROOM HOUSE LA FERME CHANTELLE Beautiful contemporary four bedroom home in a prime position amongst the vines with north-facing views Tom Clode 079 955 3114 Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194

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