February 2017
FRANSCHHOEK Scan the QR code to read the Tatler online
Sensei Chris a sport legend
Fhk matrics did us proud
V&A Riaan Badenhorst
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Bladsy 20
Photo: Ashley Bauer
Franschhoek fires fewer than last year
WFPA members on the fire line of one of the La Motte fires
Responding to a request for information from the Tatler, Ashley Bauer – manager of the Franschhoek Ward of the Winelands Fire Protection Association (WFPA) – said that there have been 35 fires in the Franschhoek ward since the beginning of the fire season (Nov 2016 - Jan 2017). “Two of the fires resulted from contractors doing hot work, i.e. grinding and welding. The rest have been unlawful ignitions, deliberately lighted fires and fireworks over the New Year,” he said. Four major fire incidents were dealt with during the period: three at La Motte Plantation and one at the Berg River Dam wall. “We conducted a preventative burn at the Berg River Dam wall area just before the festive season which has resulted in no calls to this area over December. This spot is a traditional “hot spot” with multiple calls over the holiday period.” One fire near Wemmershoek required the evacuation of the Voortrekker Campsite. Aerial resources were called in and, fortunately, there was no loss of life or property. This fire resulted from an unlawful ignition
on a nearby wine farm. Bauer is positive about the fire situation in the valley thus far. “Last year, by sharp contrast, we were dealing with 1 - 2 ignitions daily throughout December 2015 alone. So, there’s been a dramatic reduction.” “We have had great success in the suppression of these fires with the WFPA member volunteer fire team”, Bauer continued. “I really have to commend the dedication of these individuals who spend hours on the fire lines in both suppression work and, more importantly, securing the lines to prevent re ignition. I also have to thank the Franschhoek community for their support – whether it’s in the form of sandwiches, energy drinks or prayers!” According to Bauer vigilance and early notification has also played a part in the successes achieved this season as all fires are promptly reported on numerous WhatsApp groups. He however cautioned that seconds count and that veld fires should be reported to the Cape Winelands Fire Department’s control room on (021) 887 4446 before being posted to social media.
Mettler new Municipal Manager
Geraldine Mettler has been appointed government, 12 of which at a senior level. as the new municipal manager of Mettler is an LLM graduate and an Stellenbosch Municipality. She started in admitted Attorney of the High Court. the role at the beginning of January. Her special interests are in the fields of She replaces Christa Liebenberg who public administration, governance and resigned in October 2015. Since then the public accountability. Over and above her post was temporarily filled by a municipal interests and qualifications Mettler finalised director, before Richard Bosman was the relevant municipal competencies with seconded to Stellenbosch Municipality by the University of Stellenbosch last year. the City of Cape Town on 1 February 2016. Mettler says she is looking forward to Mettler was previously employed by the Geraldine Mettler the next five years and to bringing the best City of Cape Town as Director: Councillor Support possible service delivery to residents and maintaining and Sub Councils and has vast knowledge of local sound and sustainable financial management within government. She has 16 years’ experience in local the municipality.
La Motte Tasting Room Mondays to Saturdays: 09:00 – 17:00 Food and Wine Tastings on Fridays: 10:00 – 11:00 (reservations essential) Contact: 021 876 8820 | tasting@la-motte.co.za Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant For lunch: Tuesdays to Sundays For dinner: Thursdays to Saturdays Winelands Tea: Tuesdays to Sundays Chef’s Table: Thursdays to Saturdays (reservations essential) Contact: 021 876 8800 | pierneef@la-motte.co.za
La Motte invites you to experience its beautiful Franschhoek Valley setting, historical charm, stylish offering in the enjoyment of wine, cuisine and the arts, its environmental care and, above all, its people’s warm spirit of sharing. We look forward to welcoming you to La Motte!
La Motte Museum Tuesdays to Sundays: 09:00 – 17:00 Historic Walks on Wednesdays: 10:00 – 11:00 (reservations essential) Sculpture Walks on Thursdays, 10:00 – 11:00 (reservations essential) Talks on Aspects of History and Art Culture (visit www.la-motte.com for programme) Contact: 021 876 8850 | museum@la-motte.co.za La Motte Hiking Trail Mondays to Saturdays: 09:00 – 17:00 Contact: 021 876 8820 | tasting@la-motte.co.za
Visit our Farm Shop for a take-home reminder of La Motte, join us for a sustainable walk or enjoy classical music at our monthly Classical Music Concerts. Visit www.la-motte.com for more information.
www.la-motte.com