Franschhoek Tatler - May 2017

May 2017

FRANSCHHOEK Scan the QR code to read the Tatler online

Councillors support Stellenbosch Can Project

Q&A Herman Uys

Hoedown!

Page 3

Page 18

Page 19

No Zuptas welcome!

Franschhoekers show their opposition to state capture

Franschhoek is welcoming village, but on Monday, 10 April, our country’s kleptocracy would have felt decidedly less than welcome here. At noon a large crowd – many dressed in black – gathered in front of the Town Hall in mostly silent protest at what our own ‘dear leader’ and his acolytes had wrought.

While villagers from all walks of life stood in protest, some holding placards voicing their sentiments, tourists passing by on foot and in tourist

coaches signalled their interest and support by giving the crowd the thumbs up and taking photos to share with friends and family back home.

The SAPS and municipal law enforcement maintained a low profile throughout the protest. Thankfully their services weren’t required. Also maintaining a low profile was Stellenbosch Mayor, Adv Gesie van Deventer, who quietly joined the protest after spending the morning in meetings in Franschhoek.

Municipal draft budget tabled

Durable, luxurious

to R390 million and the operating budget expenditure amounts to R1.477 billion.

The proposed capital budget for 2017/2018 represents a decrease of R74 million over the previous year. This is largely due to a number of particularly large capital projects relating to waste water treatment works having been expensed in previous years.

The mayor said that the capital budget “will be spent on creating opportunities for all communities, with a definite focus on provision for previously disadvantaged communities and job creation.”

(Note: Projects specifically identified in this report are either Franschhoek specific, or municipality wide that could also benefit Franschhoek.)

Some of the projects included in the MTREF are: • Local Economic Hubs R2 000 000 • Informal Trading Sites: Groendal R570 000 • Adventure Tourism: Berg River Dam R1 350 000 • Groendal Library R2 000 000 • Improvements: Langrug R6 200 000 • Langrug: Access to Basic Services R750 000 Continued on Page 2...

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Stellenbosch Mayor, Adv Gesie van Deventer, presented the draft municipal budget to the Town Council on 29 March. Formally known as the Medium Term Revenue and Expenditure Framework (MTREF) it covers the 2017/2018 to 2019/2020 financial years.

In her speech the mayor said the budget “reflects our determination to reduce poverty, create jobs, expand our economy and build and maintain our infrastructure.” She also pointed out that the current Council inherited several challenges especially with regard to infrastructure. Other challenges include an outdated staff structure, informal settlements in need of upgrading, enormous housing backlogs, serious security concerns and overdue upgrades to roads and access routes. She continued to say that the council intends to “take the next four years entrusted to us, as Council to position Stellenbosch as one of the top Municipalities in South Africa.”

Consultation on the budget took place during April and it will be approved before the end of May. Capital budget The 2017/2018 capital budget expenditure amounts

Franschhoek Tatler

2

Compactors to help keep towns clean

Mayor Gesie Van Deventer in one of the municipality’s new compactor refuse trucks.

The Executive Mayor of Stellenbosch, Advocate Gesie Van Deventer welcomed the delivery of two compactor waste trucks on Thursday, 30 March 2017.

Mayor van Deventer said when she took office in August 2016 that “making sure our towns are clean is a priority. Residents have informed me directly that clean towns are a priority for them. Furthermore, by keeping our towns clean we ensure that the first impressions for our visitors are memorable and positive. Our new compactors will help us to do exactly that – keep our towns beautiful. I urge every resident to do their part in keeping our towns clean by using rubbish bins that are available throughout all areas.”

The specially branded trucks are valued at R2.5 million each. The compactors were purchased in order to replace older ones. Replacing aged and defective vehicles

prevents continuously spending large sums of money on repairs and prevents costs in overtime for staff.

The refuse compactors are designed to mechanically lift two wheelie bins simultaneously, empty them into the receiving cab and then compress the waste in order to maximise volume for transport to the disposal facility. With proper maintenance and care, each compactor should have a lifespan of 8 years.

These units are designed to only collect general waste i.e. household domestic refuse and trade or business waste. No rubble, acids, grease or large bulky objects such as tree trunks should be collected by the compactor, as it will damage the mechanical parts.

The Municipality made use of a National Treasury tender to cut down the delivery time and costs of the trucks.

MAD charity art auction

On Saturday, 25 March, we were invited to attend the Make A Difference Leadership Foundation annual Valley Flair art auction at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards.

The Make A Difference Leadership Foundation was established by former Springbok Captain François Pienaar and focuses on leadership development through education. The foundation aims to identify academically talented scholars, who do not have the necessary financial resources, and offer them comprehensive support in the areas of education, mentorship, leadership and life-skills development.

The event brings together art enthusiasts and socialites for a great cause over drinks and canapés in beautiful Franschhoek.

The auction was led by the very talented Ariella Kuper and showcased artwork from some of South Africa's most well-known artists including Guy du Toit, Keith Calder, Janko de Beer, Jaco Sieberhagen, Mbongeni Buthelezi and John Moore. Over a

Municipal draft budget tabled ...Continued from Page 1

Housing remains a challenge for the municipality as it is reliant of funding allocations other spheres of government. Nevertheless R2 200 000 is provided for the Old La Motte Forest Station IRDP. With regard to safety there are, amongst others provisions for improvements to fire stations and associated services and R2 000 000 for the installation and upgrading of CCTV cameras in the municipal area.

R17 251 950 is budgeted for upgrades of sport facilities and R2 100 000 for upgrades of parks in the MTREF. Upgrades to roads, resealing projects and intersection improvements to the value of R68 million have been budgeted for over the next 3 years across the municipal area.

A tour bus parking study (R1 000 000) and Franschhoek Taxi Rank (R3500 000) are among the projects aimed at improving access to public transport over the next 3 years.

The removal of solid waste and clean towns is a priority. Some projects budgeted for over the next 3 years are: Vehicles (R5 400 000), Major Drop-Off Facility - Franschhoek (R10 000 000) and Stellenbosch Material Recovery Facility (R15 000 000).

The capital budget is funded from three sources: the municipality’s own reserves, external loans and government grants.

Operating budget The proposed operating budget expenditure for 2017/2018 is R1.477 billion – an increase of R27 million.

The main elements of the operating expenditure for the 2017/2018 financial year are: • Bulk electricity and water purchases • Employee related costs; • Interest on external loans and depreciation costs; • General expenditure; • Repair & maintenance costs;

Arno Carstens and François Pienaar

million rand was raised, with the highest selling auction item being Anton Smit’s ‘Head of young boy and girl’ which sold for R200 000!

The bar has been raised for the 2018 auction and all art enthusiasts are encouraged to support this great initiative.

Martine Bauer

• Conditional grant expenditure; and • Provision for bad debt; leave; landfill sites rehabilitation; contracted services; collection costs; councillor remuneration; special projects; grants and donations represents the remaining operating expenditure.

The proposed operating budget revenue for 2017/2018 increases by 0.44% to R1.479 billion.

Property rates revenue is budgeted to increase with 7.3%. Property rates will however decrease by 24.67% for residential property, 24.30% for agricultural property and 17.28% for business property.

Electricity tariffs will increase by 2.2%. Revenue from electricity is however expected to increase with 4.2%.

Revenue from water is expected to increase with 11.5%, while the water tariff will increase by 7%. The increased revenue is partly due to an increase in collection as a result from the applicable water restriction tariffs. These tariffs will remain in place until the drought is over.

Sanitation revenue is projected to increase with 11.6% and that from refuse removal with 10.3%. The tariff for sanitation service will increase by 9%, as will the tariff for refuse removal.

Indigent households The qualifying income level for indigent households has been increased from R5000 to R6000 per month.

From July 2017 indigent households will receive 100 units of free electricity per month (up from 60), 10 kilolitres of free water per month, free refuse removal services and free sanitation services.

The property rates rebate has been increased from the first R95 000 of the property value to the first R200 000. Additionally pensioners and disabled persons also qualify for a 100% rebate on property rates if their earnings are also less than R8 000 per month. Rebates of 75% apply to pensioners and disabled households who earn less than R10 000 per month; 50% to those who earn less than R12 000 per month and, 25% for those who earn less than R15 000 per month.

May 2017

Margot has left the building

She joined the restaurant 21 years ago, she trained a team to work in it, created food for it, won awards with it and now it’s time to move on. Margot Janse, executive chef at The Tasting Room and Le Quartier Français, has left and The Tasting Room is closing down. All is not lost for the restaurant space at Le Quartier Français however, as La Colombe will be opening a new restaurant there later this year.

Margot says she has loved her time at LQF and The Tasting Room adding that as change has come to Le Quartier Français, so change has come to her too. It is time to change gears and she is looking forward to taking some time off, having time for herself and finding out what it is like having a social life. To everything there is a season, even for a world famous award-winning chef.

Margot cannot look away when children a stone’s throw away go to school hungry and so she started feeding hungry minds in 2009. Initially she developed a nutritious muffin that was delivered to a crèche in the valley on Fridays and today 185 children at three schools are given lunch prepared by the staff of the restaurant every day; tiny tots at Early Learning Centres are given breakfast and lunch. All the funds collected locally and from generous sponsors overseas for Margot’s charity, Isabelo, are spent on the children. In addition to the meals prepared by her staff, 1100 children are fed every school day by the Kusasa Breakfast Club, which Isabelo funds and runs.

Isabelo is leaving the restaurant kitchen with Margot and will initially find a home in her home. Research into nutrition and feeding needy children, building

Margot Janse

a central kitchen to supply meals and feeding more children is what is on the cards so far. The idea is for cooking to happen in the kitchen in the mornings and to use the space for education in the afternoons.

Margot’s knowledge in this commendable field is already being sought and she has been invited to do informative talks in Spain and Ireland.

Margot is excited about the new path she is taking and we can’t wait to find out where it takes her. She is a thinking, listening, creative person whom we previously called a great talent and lovely lady who wants to feed you something wonderful. This is how we still see her.

Cabrière Street update

Since the March 2017 report on building work at erven 173 and 1643 in Cabrière Street the Tatler has gained insights into more recent developments and can offer more elucidation on certain aspects raised in that report.

Erf 173 was originally laid out in 1874 as erf 6 and erf 7. The General Plan approved in 1956 shows that erf 6 and 7 were consolidated into one erf – erf 173.

As this General Plan precedes the promulgation of the Land Use Planning Ordinance (LUPO) in 1985 the owners believe that subdividing erf 173 back into its constituent parts (now erf 173 remainder and erf 1643) was exempt from LUPO regulations – such as lapsing periods. The owners therefore insist that they were acting within their rights in registering the subdivision with the Deed’s Office. The objectors are, however, continuing to dispute the validity of the subdivision.

With regard to the heritage grading and work done to the cottage on erf 173 Heritage Western Cape’s (HWC) Built Environment and Landscape Committee (Belcom) noted the following in the minutes of its 28 February 2017 meeting: “The plans that were tabled were submitted in terms of a discussion [between the owner of the property and] … the CEO of HWC in December 2016, including a letter containing the additional information that was submitted.

The Committee is of the opinion that the grading of the building is IIIC as it contributes to the heritage context within a heritage area. The principle heritage issue in question is about the scale of the building in its context, rather than the fabric and age of the building. Photographs provided of the building (circa 2016) with unauthorised work demonstrated that the building is too high for its

context. The Committee resolved that the 2015 approval provides a datum for the apex of the roof (9,681m).”

The decision quoted above replaces the 23 November 2016 decision, quoted in the March article.

As the parties are now in agreement as to the way forward with regard to the cottage HWC has lifted its cease works order. At the time of writing, HWC had issued a new permit and subsequently the revised plans were submitted to Stellenbosch Municipality for final approval. These plans show that the street façade of the cottage will essentially be returned to what it was in 2015 – before work on it commenced.

Construction on the cottage will, however, only resume once potential appeals of the HWC decision have been dealt with.

Regarding the new building on erf 1643, Stellenbosch Municipality – during March 2016 – approved building plans for a single residence.

Although the term single residence isn’t defined in the Franschhoek Town Planning Scheme Regulations of 1985 it is generally regarded as a structure that includes a kitchen and living room. The municipality also approved the change of roofing material to thatch from the originally indicated corrugated iron.

Stellenbosch Municipality is still considering the application for rezoning the two erven from single residential to general residential to allow their use as a guest house.

Finally, residents who may have raised an eyebrow at the cutting back of the mixed hedge are, no doubt, relieved that a Eugenia hedge has been planted to maintain the green frontage on Kruger Street.

Councillors support Stellenbosch Can Project

Right: DA councillors make donations to the Stellenbosch Can Project before the start of the March town council meeting. They did so again at the April meeting.

Stellenbosch Municipality is supporting the Stellenbosch Can Project that collects canned food for the Stellenbosch Feeding in Action Project. The project will use the cans collected to prepare meals for less fortunate people.

Each directorate in the municipality has received

a wooden box and employees are encouraged to bring canned food items from home and place it in the boxes provided. Donations are collected every Friday and kept in a safe place until the end of the project when they will be handed over to the project.

The project runs until the end of May 2017.

May 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

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Innovative shelter displayed at Huguenot Museum

An innovative temporary shelter for refugees was on display at the Huguenot Museum during March. The shelter was the centrepiece of a travelling that opened at the museum on Human Rights Day, 21 March. Franschhoek was the exhibit’s last stop in SA, before it headed off to Canada on 28 March.

The Save Our Souls project by Achilleas Souras is a response to the current global refugee crisis that the world is facing.

It proposes the re-use of a by-product of this crisis, the common life jacket, to provide low-cost temporary shelters to help refugees: Protection in Water – Shelter on Land.

In only a few months last year more than 450,000 discarded life jackets have accumulated on the Greek island of Lesbos, providing an abundance of building material for the project. For Achilleas, a 16-year-old student, it all started with his toys, particularly Museum staffers Silvia Boonzaaier (left) and Elizna Davids with the Lego. He soon outgrew the instruction sheets innovative shelter that was on display at the Huguenot Museum in March. With them is Silvia’s granddaughter Dionisia. and would let his imagination run wild, like wonder to respond to the situation he saw the life building structures that would re-appropriate much of his jackets as more than a throw away item. Instead he parents’ house. The more he built, the taller the structures saw them as a building block much like Lego. would get, challenging himself to keep the structures The exhibit was visited on its opening day by a group standing despite the artificial gales of wind and earthof children from the Franschhoek Valley Community quakes he would generate.

Sports Centre. The children were given a guided tour Fast forward to today and feeling troubled by of the museum before Dr A Roman addressed them witnessing the current global refugee crisis, Achilleas about human and children’s rights. wanted to help in some way. Using his creative child-

Crime briefs

On Thursday, 13 April, Franschhoek SAPS along with the Winelands crime prevention and flying squads executed an operation targeted at drug houses and unlicensed liquor outlets.

A large volume of wine was confiscated at a shebeen in Groendal. A woman was arrested at the scene and taken to Franschhoek SAPS. During the Easter weekend a number of operations took place with the assistance of law enforcement and the Winelands crime prevention squad. Several arrests were made for: housebreaking (1), drugs (20), possession of stolen property (2), possession of dangerous weapons (1) and illegal dealing in liquor (2).

Elizabeth Jacobs (51 jaar oud) is op 5 Februarie 2017 om 03h30 voor haar huis te Santa Rosastraat 79,

Groendal, deur ‘n motor omgery. Die motor het booor haar gery en toe weggejaag. Jacobs is met ernstige beserings na die Tygerberg Hospitaal geneem waar sy op 8 April aan haar beserings beswyk het.

Niemand is nog in verband met die voorval in hegtenis geneem nie en ‘n beloning word aangebied vir enige inligting oor die voorval. Enigiemand met inligting kan die ondersoekbeampte, Sersant Dominica Van der Berg, skakel by 083 862 4636.

Capt. Norman Davids wishes to thank the community for assisting the SAPS. He appealed to residents to contact the SAPS at 10111 when they see unknown people walking around their neighbourhoods as these individuals are often scouting for break-in opportunities.

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Cellar Tour followed by Sabrage Monday to Saturday: 11:00am Contact: reservations@cabriere.co.za | 021 876 8500 RESTAURANT BOOKINGS Lunch: Tuesday – Sunday 12h00 – 14h00 Dinner: Tuesday – Saturday 18h30 – 20h30 Closed on Mondays Contact: restaurant@cabriere.co.za | 0218763688 HISTORICAL HIKING TRAIL Cat se Pad hiking trail access from the premises Website and Online Shop: WWW.CABRIERE.CO.ZA Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Enjoy Responsibly.

Franschhoek Tatler

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May 2017

Boekenhoutskloof

Allora Restaurant

Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2015

Lamb shank prepared in a rich merlot and tomato sauce

The wine is vivid purple, almost inky black, in colour with a pomegranate rim.

The nose is intense, dark and brooding with violets and whiffs of white pepper.

The juicy palate shows blue- and blackberry fruit with liquorice and hints of spices. The wine is balanced, elegant yet complex, with fine grained tannins.

The spicy finish lingers with a bouquet of violets and black cherry following through from the palate.

Cellar Price: R160 per bottle

Ingredients 2 Lamb Shanks (450g portion) 250 ml Red wine 2 x 410 g Whole peeled tomatoes 1 Stick celery 1 Large carrot 1 Medium onion Salt to taste 2 Pinches black pepper 2 Sprigs rosemary Flour Paprika

Boekenhoutskloof 021 876 3320 info@boekenhoutskloof.co.za

Method Mix flour and paprika together. Dust the lamb shanks in the flour and paprika mixture. Brown the shanks in a hot pan with enough oil so not to stick Chop the vegetable into chunks. Mix all the sauce ingredients together in a deep oven pan. Cover the pan with a double layer of foil. Cook in your over at 180 degrees for up to 3 to 4 hours. (This will depend on your oven and also tenderness of the lamb shanks)

Allora Restaurant 021 876 4375 franschhoek@allora.co.za

Mont Rochelle

Miko at Mont Rochelle Hotel

Miko White 2015

Ham hock terrine

Pale straw green in colour, with beautiful stone fruit nuances and lovely fresh citrus and lime tones including butterscotch and orange peel aromas.

The palate is complex and is well balanced by a finely judged and elegant toasty oak component.

Cellar Price: R313 per bottle

Ingredients 3 Ham hocks on the bone; 1 Large white onion; 2 Large carrots; 4 Garlic gloves; 50ml Grapeseed oil; 500ml Apple cider; 150 ml Raspberry vinegar; 100ml Elderflower syrup; 2 Bay leaves; 1 Star anise; 4 fresh thyme sprigs; 1.5 litres water; 1 tsp Coriander seeds

Mont Rochelle 021 876 2770 wine@montrochelle.virgin.com

Method Soak hocks overnight. In large saucepan over medium heat, add grapeseed oil and coriander seeds.

Cook for 2 min. Add carrots and onions and gently fry. Add ham hocks, followed by remaining ingredients.

Gently simmer covered for an hour over medium heat, then uncovered for 1 ½ hours. Once tender, remove and allow to cool in the liquid. Once cool , remove hocks from the liquid. Strain liquid, discard vegetables

Place stock back into saucepan and reduce to about 600ml. Line a 1.5kg loaf tin with a double layer of cling film. Remove skin from the hocks, and shred meat.

Place the shredded meat into a bowl and season with salt and pepper according to taste. Place the mixture into the lined terrine mould and compact tightly. Pour the cooled stock mixture over the terrine Place terrine insert/lid on top of the terrine and place it in a fridge until set. From the terrine from the mould by lifting the lid, and pulling on the double layer of cling film. The terrine is now ready to serve.

Miko at Mont Rochelle Hotel 021 876 2770 miko@montrochelle.virgin.com

How to enter

Who is the new owner of Franschhoek Electric?

MO NNEAUX RESTAURANT Tel: +27 (0)21 876 3386 email: info@fch.co.za www.monnea ux.co.za

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Send your answer to: tatlercompetition@gmail.com. The winner will be informed by return mail before 15 May 2017 Prizes have to be collected from the Franschhoek Info Office before end May 2017 or be forfeited.

May 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Cellar Chat

Mark Tanner The road from Vàclev Havel airport to central Prague is lined with huge billboards advertising pneumatic drills, chain saws, earth moving equipment and other domestic items. A leftover from the days of Soviet influence, no doubt.

While never a part of the Soviet Union, the Czech Republic absorbed many mantels of Soviet culture – or lack of it. Outside of city hotels life is very 'country' with plain and simple cuisine and no-nonsense wines.

Reminiscent of the airport drive, one wine label sports coal mining headgear. The workers obviously need the odd 'dop'. Of course, other wines have more appropriate labels and offer a more appropriate quality.

Czech vineyards are mainly situated in the south, bordering Austria and its wines from the Neusiedler See region. They do not share quite the same terroir and Czech wines are limited to mainly white varieties with not-quite-so-interesting Pinot Noirs. There is just not enough sun. Their most successful wines are Sauvignons from Znomo and Rieslings from Vatice, Mikulov and Novy Saldorf.

I had the pleasure and privilege of travelling for 10 days around our wine regions with a group of winemakers from Mikulov. Theirs was an 'inspirational business tour', to explore our production methods and our cellar door techniques. Being some way

'behind us' (their comment) they have yet to develop hospitality facilities at the sales point. No corkscrews or T shirts, no souvenirs or wine literature for sale.

They photographed wine making equipment, architectural features, furniture and fittings, labels and, of course, our dramatic mountain scenery. A far cry from the chilly, undulating plains of home with a climate ideal for ice wine (Eiswein), warm clothing and entry level whites.

Do not, however, think for a moment that the Czech Republic is a place of dark bread and grey skies – far from it. I once visited Cesky Crumlov in the south. It’s a seriously romantic place that could have been designed by Disney, with towers and turrets that have not changed since the middle ages. I looked for Rapunzel with her golden locks, but no luck!

Not far away is the town of Cesky Budawice, or Budweisser if you’re German. Famous of course for its beer. The brewery attracted international giant Annhauser - Busch who wanted to buy it. The offer was refused as this brewery goes back to the 11th century and being a national treasure, is definitely not for sale.

Czech wine production does not keep up with local consumption and foreign imports make up the difference. Local wines are improving at 'restaurant' level and are winning international awards. This is encouraging and I would happily recommend a visit. For those who call it home it is a land of surprises as they change focus from Moscow to Manhattan. One can feel the energy of exploration and learning. There are encouraging smiles.

There are of course also some areas that hanker for the old days, where people have difficulty in extracting themselves from the time warp. Naz Drovè!

5

Join us at Ryan’s kitchen for daily food & wine collaborations.

RYANS@BEVINTNERS.CO.ZA 1 Place Vendome, Huguenot Rd, Franschhoek 021 876 4598 (Lana) Cesky Crumlov looks like it was designed by Disney

FRAN SCHHOEK

Two Eléphants of Franschhoek

The Franschhoek Feeling

Franschhoek Tatler

6

May 2017

La Petite Ferme wine & food experiences The Franschhoek Cellar clinches 4 May, 8 June, 6 July and 3 August two major wine tourism awards

Your inner gastronome will thank you this winter if you snap up a seat (or two) at the exclusive Wine & Food Experience presented by La Petite Ferme mountainside estate.

Four dinners are scheduled as part of the Wine & Food Experience that takes place on the first Thursday of every month from May to August.

Each is distinctly different from the others and will be hosted by the La Petite Ferme’s well-travelled winemaker Wikus Pretorius, who draws on his experience of local and international wines.

During the course of each evening, Pretorius will begin with a showcase tasting of four wines - one from La Petite Ferme; two from other local Cape winelands terroirs; and, one international. All the wines on the evening will be the same cultivar, providing a rare opportunity to compare different expressions and the effect of terroirs and techniques.

On 4 May, Viognier takes centre-stage. Traditional to France's northern Rhone valley, the cultivar is known for its delicate acidity, dryness and varied expressions.

On 8 June, it’s the turn of Chardonnay, a bold grape that continues to surprise and delight in all its different guises.

The dinner of 6 July is dedicated to what many consider the king of reds - Cabernet Sauvignon.

Famous as a full-bodied wine, it is nonetheless capable of delicacy and elegance in skilled hands.

The curtain call then on 3 August belongs to Cape and red blends. The dinner features La Petite Ferme’s own Verdict, a champion wine that performs outstandingly with or without food.

The tasting will be followed by a three-course winematched dinner with dishes inspired by Pretorius’

Wikus Pretorius

most sumptuous taste experiences which he gleaned from his world travels.

The tasting dinners get underway at 18h30.

The cost is only R750pp, which includes the tasting of four wines and the three-course, wine-paired dinner. Reservations have been limited to ensure an intimate, personal and premium experience. Bookings are essential and early reservations pr@lapetiteferme.co.za | 021 876 3016 (Ruan)

The Franschhoek Cellar was recently awarded not one, but two coveted local accolades for excellence in wine tourism.

In an awards ceremony held on 29 March, The Franschhoek Cellar was presented with the New Tourism Business of the Year Award at the Cape Winelands District Municipality Mayoral Tourism Awards.

Criteria for this award included demonstrating a positive impact on Celebrating at The Franschhoek Cellar tourism as well as the ground to handle our rapid growth. We are thrilled potential to generate future tourism growth. with these achievements which inspire us to work The second recognition came from the highly even harder at being the best,” says Carla Malherbe, anticipated annual Klink Awards, presented by Wine Hospitality Manager at The Franschhoek Cellar.

Tourism South Africa. The Franschhoek Cellar won One of the secrets of The Franschhoek Cellar's the 'Out of the Ordinary' category, awarded to a success is that they satisfy their visitors' every need. winery for a unique and memorable attraction or This means that there is something for the whole selling point that distinguishes it from the rest. family, from delicious and varied food and wine “It is such an honour to receive awards of this nature pairings and tastings, to a wonderful children's having been in operation just short of three years. entertainment area and the very popular The Platform The Franschhoek Cellar has grown immensely since restaurant and beer garden. we first opened in December 2014 and this could not have been possible without a strong team on the www.thefranschhoekcellar.co.za | 021 876 2086

La Motte Millennium – new vintage, new award

The latest (2015) vintage of La Motte’s acclaimed Bordeaux-style red wine, La Motte Millennium, was recognised as the Best of Show South African Red at the Spring Tasting of the Mundus Vini Grand International Wine Awards.

Nearly 200 international wine experts from 44 countries, comprising oenologists, winemakers, professional wine traders, sommeliers and wine journalists made the selection from almost 6 200 wines from more than 150 wine growing regions all over the word.

Released in March 2017, the 2015 La Motte Millennium is a classic red blend of Merlot (56%), Cabernet Franc (28%), Malbec (10%) and Petit

Verdot (6%). Grapes originate from the Walker Bay, Villiersdorp, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch areas.

“South Africa’s diversity in terroir – a compact system of closely situated but very different pockets – enables excellent blends of various areas and varieties”, says La Motte Cellarmaster Edmund Terblanche.

With its elegant style and versatile character, the 2015 La Motte Millennium is a dependable choice on the dinner table and an unbeatable choice for a glass on its own. The nose is intense with cherry and mulberry fruit, cinnamon and a hint of aniseed as well as some delicate oak-derived toffee and caramel flavours. www.la-motte.com | 021 876 8000

DGB – Best SA Producer at MUNDUS VINI

DGB, South Africa’s largest independent wine and spirit producer and distributor – and producer of wine brands such as Boschendal, Bellingham, Brampton, Franschhoek Cellars, Douglas Green, Tall Horse and The Beachhouse, amongst others – was announced as the Best South African Producer at the recently concluded MUNDUS VINI International Award and Spring Tasting.

Group Winemaker, JC Bekker, accepted the certificate for ‘Best Producer South Africa’ on behalf of the company. The award is presented by the Board of MUNDUS VINI and put DGB in the company of top wineries from Germany, Italy, France, Portugal and Australia. The presentation took place on 19 March, the first day of the world’s largest wine trade fair, ProWein in Düsseldorf.

DGB clinched this award following a rigorous tasting conducted by 200 international wine experts from 44 countries, of almost 6 200 wines, from more than 150 wine growing regions. According to the organisers, this was the highest number of wines ever tasted at MUNDUS VINI. Wineries honoured with ‘Best Producer’-status, receive this accolade based on achieving the highest overall results, per country, in the competition. A

total of twelve wines from DGB achieved individual medals, including Gold Medals for the Bellingham Homestead Sauvignon Blanc 2016 and the Boschendal 1685 Shiraz 2015, respectively. Additionally, DGB also received 10 Silver Medals, representing close to 20% of the total award tally presented to wines from South Africa.

Wines in the competition are evaluated according to product category, origin, quality level and flavour, and only the best 40 percent of submitted wines receive medals – making these awards even more valuable and meaningful.

According to JC Becker, this is a major achievement for DGB and its international reputation: “The MUNDUS VINI International Wine Award tasting is considered as one of the majorly important trade tastings where international buyers and consumers compare the quality of wines from all over the globe. To be acknowledged at this forum is massively exciting and important to how our individual wine brands are positioned abroad. Its association with what is largely considered as one of the world’s most important trade shows, ProWein, adds additional weight and importance.”

He added: “Personally this award also serves as a

Cosy up for winter at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards

Conventionally a time to hibernate, this year, winter at Leopard’s Leap will see some exciting renovations! The kitchen, run by the passionate Chef Pieter de Jager and well-known for its popular hands-on cooking classes, delicious Rotisserie lunches and those delightful bites for the weekly food and wine pairing, will be revamped for a new interpretation of all that is food, family and fun!

For the duration of the refurbishment, Leopard’s Leap will be embracing all that is wonderful about winter in the Winelands, with a cosier version of its Rotisserie lunch and Harvest table.

Starting from Wednesday, 17 May, guests are invited to select their favourite seasonal sides and salads from the winter Harvest Table while their chosen cut from the succulent selection on the Rotisserie, will be served family-style on the table. Dessert comes from the Chef ’s daily inspiration and will be in the form of a warming sweet bake that will make you forget all about beaches and bikinis and body fat percentages!

The selection of Leopard’s Leap as well as Culinaria Collection wines will still be available at tasting room prices. www.leopardsleap.co.za | 021 876 8002

barometer of where we are standing in terms of our own work standard, and performance, and we are very happy it reflects that we are indeed on the right track when it comes to international, quality standards.”

24 dirkie uys street · tel 021 876 4304

www.davidwalters.co.za

HANDMADE IN FRANSCHHOEK designer craftsman · ceramic studio · gallery Fresh fare from the harvest table

May 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

FRANSCHHOEK

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Franschhoek Tatler

8

Plaisir de Merle’s pinnacle

Plaisir de Merle has launched what they deem as the pinnacle of blends in the estates entire winemaking history. The limited edition 2013 Charles Marais is a heady blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Merlot and winemaker Niel Bester says it’s the finest wine released in his 25 years as cellar master.

Niel says that as with any extraordinary wine, the story starts in the vineyard where he first selected the individual grapes for their exceptional quality long before deciding what the blend components would be.

“The grapes were destined for greatness and we ensured they enjoyed the royal treatment they deserved by handling the grapes separately from harvesting to fermentation and maturation. And when the time came to blend I only selected 12 out of the 100 barrels to create what I think is a magnificent wine.”

The Cabernet Sauvignon brings red berries, dark fruit and juicy tannins to the blend, while the Cabernet Franc adds blueberries and an herbaceous note. The Petit Verdot contributes forest berries and spice as well as some firm tannin. The Merlot lifts the blend with aromatic violets whilst French oak delivers flavours of pencil shavings, sweet vanilla and spice.

Dense, inky plum in colour the wine is aromatic with dark fruit and savoury notes on the nose. Luscious and full-bodied the palate opens up to reveal layers of ripe red and black fruit with juicy, soft tannins.

The dramatic Simonsberg Mountain offers a variety of elevations and slopes where the grapes are shaded from the harsh afternoon sun resulting in slow-ripening of the grapes with concentrated, terroir-driven flavours. Once harvested by hand, the grapes were hand-sorted, crushed and destemmed, cooled down to 13°C and transferred to small 5000 litre stainless steel fermentation tanks.

During fermentation the juice was controlled between 24°C and 26°C, collected from the bottom of the tanks and transferred back to the top to soak through the skins, ensuring a soft and delicate extraction of colour, flavour and tannins. After alcoholic fermentation was completed, a period of maceration followed when the skins and wine remained in contact for up to two weeks to achieve optimal richness of colour and depth of flavour. The wines underwent malolactic fermentation in third fill 300-litre French oak barrels.

The wines were racked off the sediment and returned to new 300-litre French oak barrels. After a period of 16 months the barrels were individually tasted and evaluated. Only the barrels showing the purest varietal character were chosen for the final blend. The blended wine was transferred back to third fill barrels and matured for a further six months to ensure a smooth integration of the components.

The wines were transferred from the barrels and bottled without any prior filtration. Thereafter the wine spent almost two years in the bottle to develop further complexity and structure.

The wine is named after founder Charles Marais who fled his home in France, setting sail with his family in 1687. They settled in the Groot Drakenstein Valley and in 1693 the Cape Governor, Simon van der Stel, granted him land, which he named after his home town, Le Plessis Marly. Today the farm is known as Plaisir de Merle. Charles Marais was one of only a handful of Frenchmen who had experience in winemaking when he arrived at the Cape and his vinous legacy lives on in Plaisir de Merle’s winemaking tradition.

The 2013 Plaisir de Merle Charles Marais will be available from the brand home, online at www.vinoteque. co.za/collections/plaisir-de-merle and selected fine wine stores and expected to retail for about R1 000 per bottle.

Plaisir de Merle is located in Simondium on the R45 between Paarl and Franschhoek. www.plaisirdemerle.co.za | 021 874 1072

Leeu Estates on Hot List 2017

Leeu Estates is one of a selected few hotels in the world, and the only South African property, to appear on Condé Nast Traveller’s HOT LIST for 2017 in the category for Africa and the Middle East.

This comes shortly after Leeu Estates was named as one of the best new hotels on Travel + Leisure’s It List 2017, one of only 44 properties around the globe with this distinction.

The Condé Nast Traveller HOT LIST celebrates the best properties that have opened their doors during the past year. For this 21st edition of the HOT LIST, editors and reporters crisscrossed various countries and continents to review hundreds of new properties first hand. From this the winners are chosen, hotels that represent the vanguard of the hotel world.

Leeu Estates opened its doors in June 2016. Located between the mountainside and river with spectacular views of the Franschhoek Valley, this exceptional property on 68 hectares of vineyards, landscaped gardens and fynbos is the ideal setting for unrivalled escapes where guests can see and enjoy the true experiences of a working wine farm.

Leeu Estates is testimony to the pillars of the brand: superlative service with attention to the smallest detail; an award-winning wine portfolio, distinctive architecture and sophisticated design; inspiring art collections and manicured and detailed landscaping which reflects respect for the environment.

It all started as a personal journey for Leeu Collection’s founder Analjit Singh (aka BAS), an international investor of Indian origin. Captivated by the Western Cape’s exceptional beauty and vibrant energy during a trip to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, he decided to buy a family home in the Franschhoek Valley. The idea of a family home, however, soon transformed into what it is today – three historic farms joined to create a world-class hospitality and winemaking destination.

“I am extremely grateful for all the people who never stop discovering new places, says Carrie Wicks, Leeu Collection CEO. “Being mentioned among some of the world’s best new hotels with the highest standards, is a confirmation of Leeu Collection’s philosophy, the effervescent talent of our team and the memorable journey we want every guest to experience and revisit.” www.leeucollection.com | 021 492 2222

May 2017

A reason to celebrate!

One of the priorities at Leopard's Leap is to ensure that delicious and affordable Leopard's Leap wine is always available - whether it is online, from a local supermarket, on restaurant wine lists or directly from the farm.

Another priority is to make those who come out to Leopard's Leap Family Vineyards in Franschhoek, feel like they are home. Inviting families and friends to relax, enjoy a glass of wine or a snazzy wine cocktail and of course to indulge in the sensational seasonal menu – on the rotisserie, on the harvest table, on the pairing menu or in the cooking classes!

And it seems that making hospitality a priority has paid off! Leopard's Leap Family Vineyards has recently received two exceptional wine tourism awards: • The Cape Winelands District Mayoral Wine Tourism Awards Wine Tourism Destination of the Year • The 2017 Klink! Awards Winner: Wine Country Cuisine "We have a team that is passionate about sharing good food and wine with our guests in a friendly and relaxed space. To receive recognition for the quality and variety of the offering, is wonderful motivation for the whole team", says Leopard's Leap CEO Hein Koegelenberg.

"Seeing smiling faces, empty plates, glasses raised in cheers and moms actually relaxing are more than enough reward for us", says Leopard's Leap Chef, Pieter de Jager. "But we can't help feeling exceptionally blessed after receiving two awards in one week!" www.leopardsleap.co.za | 021 876 8002

New winter menu sizzles at Grande Provence

Experience diverse cuisine styles and savour perfection on a plate with the new winter menu at The Restaurant at Grande Provence.

Drawing from the best local seasonal produce and embracing a variety of cuisine styles and cooking methods from around the world, Executive Chef Darren Badenhorst lives out his passion exploring more unusual and challenging ingredients, some even foraged by his own hand. Grounded by his strong focus on the visual aspects of food, great depth of flavour and meticulous attention to detail down to the last micro herb, every plate is a culinary revelation for all the senses.

“Our new menu promises a diverse experience showcasing some rather exciting ingredients. Interaction with our serving staff coupled with the visual aspects of the food allow the elements of this menu to reveal themselves to all the senses, be it sight, smell or touch,” says Chef Darren.

For his new winter menu, Chef Darren is using a wide variety of meats and fresh produce adding interesting twists from various cuisine styles. Long, slow cooking times and utilising locally foraged and supplied ingredients from speciality purveyors allow Chef Darren to be truly creative in his approach.

Opulent yet accessible is what his new winter menu is all about: “I would like my guests to feel challenged by my methods and ingredients while simultaneously imparting a sense of comfort and familiarity of the home style characteristics and depth of flavour. This is the key to satisfying the wide spectrum of nationalities who visit our restaurant and at the same time staying true to what South Africa as a whole has to offer.”

Diners are spoilt for choice with a starter selection of wild porcini & salt-cured foie gras mousse; confit wild rabbit terrine with a smoked pork belly & bean cassoulet; cured, seared & cold smoked local trout with candied lemon korokke; and ocean umami risotto of seared scallop, BBQ langoustine, estatecured chorizo, asparagus & fennel.

Vegetarians will go wild for Chef Darren’s “Monochrome of forest green”, a woodland of baby courgette, tempura kale, wild herb & whipped tarragon crème, river sprout pesto cups, charred asparagus & pickled mushroom.

A master of sous-vide cooking, Chef Darren’s 12-hour beef cheek with foraged local mushrooms

& bone marrow jus gras; and slow cooked Karoo lamb neck with roast garlic & parsnip puree, minted halloumi & charred baby broccoli are the ultimate winter comfort mains for carnivores. Fish lovers can tuck into either a saffron, coconut & smoked tomato bouillabaisse with sustainable sea food, vanilla & red pepper rouille & toasted sesame sushi dumpling; or the pork crackling encased line fish. The vegetarian option is raclette & baby leek arancini, wild saffron milk cap dusted tofu, truffled vichyssoise velouté & peppery radish sprouts.

To wrap up, there is ample choice with almond & orange calisson, rose water parfait & white chocolate pearls; bitter chocolate hot fondant, toasted cinnamon sponge, popping gold & frozen vanilla anglaise; and molten Comté & estate amphora fondue, caramelised onion marmalade & guanciale centred doughnut. For a local twist try the condensed milk terugoule-style sago pudding with frozen pistachio crème, shaved coconut & basil.

To make your dining experience all the more memorable, a perfectly paired Grande Provence wine is recommended for each dish by winemaker Matthew van Heerden.

The à la carte menu is served daily with a threecourse lunch option at R450 per person, and dinner at R725 per person with an additional course and other surprises on the night.

An elaborate 6-course gourmand dégustation menu is available by prior arrangement. For the ultimate indulgence, Chef Darren hosts a Chef ’s Table in the stately Jonkershuis private dining room for a table of six or more. restaurant@grandeprovence.co.za | 021 876 8600

The Kitchen at Maison awarded Best Gourmet Restaurant Klink Wine Tourism Awards

When it comes to quaffing wine, sampling delicious food and seeking out new experiences, who better to ask than the people who go out there and try everything?

The Klink Wine Tourism Awards are about far more than wine. By nominating and voting during the campaign participants show their support for their favourite wine farm, winelands restaurant and activity. The innovative categories are designed to highlight the unusual, the traditional, the exceptional and everything in between.

The ‘At The Cellar Door’ category recognises gastronomic destinations with signature chefs who create cutting edge cuisine. Maison was awarded Best Gourmet Restaurant for the great attention to detail they pay in terms of an overall wine and food experience, their great location, first-class service, their focus on artisanal and local winelands produce, seasonal favourites and tasting menu, which expertly pair food and wine.

Chef Arno heads up The Kitchen at Maison and began his adventure as the Head Chef at the ripe

young age of 26, after winning a challenging sevencourse cook-off with Chris Weylandts himself. Chef Arno views cooking in the same way that one would view art – unique and highly personal. www.maisonestate.co.za/the-kitchen-restaurant 021 876 2116

May 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Hanneli Rupert on art, fashion and entrepreneurship in SA

Okapi is an art and fashion brand created with the aim of becoming one of Africa’s true luxury brands. It was founded by South African painter Hanneli Rupert in 2008 and has since entered international markets in the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia and United States of America.

In the Cape Winelands the brand is exclusively available at Franschhoek’s The Boutique Gallery on Huguenot St. The Boutique Gallery was founded by couple and art enthusiasts William Vaesen and Ellen Christiaen.

The pair carefully selects artworks, sculptures and accessories with their customers in mind and also provides customised art consultancy.

Hanneli Rupert was invited for a brunch on Wednesday, 22 March, to talk about the inspiration behind the Okapi brand, their latest collection, as well as what customers can expect in the future. The brunch, at Le Quartier Français, was attended by more than 30 well-heeled art and fashion lovers.

“The brand ethos of Okapi echoes that of ours as well as our vision for our business,” commented Christiaen.

“We believe in marrying art and fashion with sustainability as well as providing a platform for local talent to thrive. We are thrilled to be a stockist of such an aspirational brand.”

Hanneli Rupert and Ellen Christiaen show off their shared passions at The Boutique Gallery.

“South Africans have a really good sense of nature.

They understand sustainability and its importance”, said Rupert. “At Okapi we manufacture everything locally with carefully selected partners. We aim to ensure that the more our customers wear their bags, the better it looks,” she continued.

The two brands aim to continue providing locally made fashion and artworks, creating job opportunities and skills development. www.theboutiquegallery.co.za | 021 876 2723

EBONY/Curated doubles up

dedicated team have grown the business On Friday, 19 May, at the start of this by focusing on showing the best in year’s Franschhoek Literary Festival, local design and works of art from EBONY/Curated will open its second the continent. They have maintained a gallery in Franschhoek at Bordeaux House consistently high benchmark and organic – previously known as The Moór Gallery. growth that has mirrored the increase Complimenting EBONY’s two existing in popularity of Franschhoek as an art galleries (one in Franschhoek Square and destination. one in Cape Town’s bustling CBD) this new Ebony’s Curator and co-founder Marc space will focus on exhibiting a diverse range Stanes says: “Opening a new gallery in of fine artists from the entire continent.

Franschhoek makes perfect sense for us.

One of the largest gallery spaces in With over 800sqm of combined gallery Franschhoek, EBONY/Curated at space we are able to fully engage with our Bordeaux House will have dedicated areas ‘The Oil Merchant’ by collectors and allow our artists an even for specific exhibitions, a gallery of South Victor Ehikhamenor bigger platform to experiment and not be African Masters and a space for young, (Enamel and Acrylic on limited. Our original Franschhoek Square emerging luminaries.

Canvas and Rope) gallery will continue to show great pieces For the opening exhibition look out of design alongside works of art and will remain the for works by Erik Laubscher, Cecil Skotnes, Peter much loved personal vision of the 3 owners” Clarke, Norman Catherine, Wole Lagunju, and this EBONY/Curated will open an exhibition of new year’s Venice Biennale participating artists Mohau paintings by Andrew Barlow titled ‘Illuminate’ in Modisakeng, Victor Ehikamenor and many more. their Franschhoek Square Gallery on Saturday, 20 EBONY/Curated first opened its doors in May, at 12h00.

Franschhoek in September 2007. The owners and their

MADE IN FRANSCHHOEK 62 HUGUENOT STREET, FRANSCHHOEK +27 21 876 3094 info@penchantdesign.com www.penchantdesign.com

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Franschhoek Tatler

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May 2017

Depression has risen by 58% in South Africa

In South Africa the number of people suffering from major depressive disorder has risen by 58% from 1990 to 2013 affecting 407 578 people and just over 253 million world-wide.

Dr Mvuyiso Talatala, board member of the Psychiatry Management Group (PsychMG), says the significant increase is due to a number of factors of which raised awareness of the disorder and people seeking help are some. This is despite of the mental health services in South Africa being under-resourced contributing greatly to the under diagnosis of depression and preventing people seeking treatment.

He says, “Depression continues to be amongst the leading causes of disability and can affect anybody at any time in their life. However depression remains largely underfunded despite evidence that shows that treating depression improves a country’s economy.

“Due to limited funding for mental health and a delay in implementing appropriate policies, there is still an emphasis on the treatment of more severe illnesses such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in South Africa. There is less funding for treatment of depression at primary health care level in the public sector and in outpatient care in the private sector.

The funding is skewed towards hospital- based care in both public and private sector and this is more apparent in the private sector.”

He says people with depression often find it difficult to talk about their condition with family and in the workplace due to the stigma associated with mental illness. There is often an impression that people suffering from depression are lazy and should snap out of it.

Dr Talatala says one of the serious consequences of depression is suicide which is amongst the leading causes of death in people aged 15 to 29 years.

“Depression results from a complex interaction of social, psychological and biological factors. Those at highest risk are people who have endured distressing experiences such as trauma, unemployment and bereavement. Genetics, changes in hormone levels, certain medical conditions, stress, or difficult life circumstances are all contributing factors. Depression can, in turn, lead to more stress and dysfunction and worsen the affected person’s life situation and condition”.

He says depression is an illness characterised by persistent sadness and loss of interest in activities one would normally enjoy.

“It’s different from usual mood fluctuations and emotional responses to challenges in everyday life and can be categorized as mild, moderate, or severe depressive

episodes. Symptoms of hopelessness, worthlessness, indecisiveness, lack of sleep or increased sleep, reduced or increased appetite and at times anxiety, lasting longer than two weeks might be a sign of depression. It severely affects relationships and leads to absenteeism or reduced productivity at work which could lead to job losses.”

Dr Talatala emphasises that depression is treatable through medication or psychotherapy or a combination of both. But the first step is seeking help.

“I would suggest going to a public health clinic or a general practitioner and voice your concerns as soon as possible. It’s however important that patients adhere to and stick to treatment. Too often patients stop using medication mid-way through their treatment with longterm effects on their healing process.

“But the best way is to try to prevent depression in the first place. Monitor your stress and seek immediate help before it spirals out of control. It’s important to identify the stressors in your life and address them to avoid long-term health effects. Live a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep, exercise, diet and avoiding substance abuse such as drugs and alcohol.”

Dr Glynn Till DC (USA), FCCS (Can) Practice Number: 040 1110 Registration Number: A07609

Chiropractic Specialist Clinician Low back, Mid-back and Neck Pains Myofascial Pain Syndromes (“trigger points”) Sciatica & Brachial Neuralgia TMJ Problems Sports Injuries Headaches Arthritis

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May 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

Gardening in May

11

Plant of the Month

Natie Ferreira

May is the month of maybes. It may be hot, it may be cold. It may be wet, it may be dry. Will this be the start of the wet winter we’ve all been praying for? May it be so. The drought is on everyone’s lips. Is this climate change or natural cycles? We don’t know. Will it rain soon? Maybe.

What is certain is that we need a massive mind shift regarding not only water, but all our earthly resources.

I do believe that we have everything we need for the survival of mankind on this planet, no matter the population. But this does mean that we will have to be much more responsible with what we have. We have, for example, some of the cleanest natural water in the world right here in the Berg River Dam. To use that water to flush toilets is an atrocity. We need to find alternative ways to deal with sewage. The same goes for industrial cooling, cleaning and processing. We are all familiar with the term carbon footprint. Maybe it’s time we look at the water impact of the products on our shelves.

I went long on rain in my March article. Glad I did not put real money on it! But I do have very young seedlings in the ground because of this. They are suffering in the current heatwave. We are lucky to have borehole water, but even this is a finite resource and the cost of pumping it is huge, not only in money but also to the environment. If you did the same and went ahead and sowed and planted up your winter vegetable garden you might be in a similar position. Mulching, temporary shade, wind protection and whatever water you have available will help the plants to survive. We have mostly acidic soils in our area and I have found that grey water is not only a survival tool, but can even be beneficial to plants – especially the brassica group.

May is a big gardening month, and it can be an

Frankie Brookes

Dainty Alyssum

exciting one. That is if you find pruning, mulching, composting and bed preparation exciting. Then this is a great month. We do need to prune all summer and autumn flowering shrubs this month. This includes Hydrangeas (if you still have them in the garden).

Just leave the roses alone. It is a good month for tree surgery – plan this well and anticipate winter storm damage. There are plenty of expert companies around that specialise in this – book them now before they get too busy with winter damage and spring pruning. Clean your gutters and storm water drains. Lawns should be mown shorter, but less often now. There is still time to fertilise the grass with a high potash and phosphorous fertiliser. This will ensure deep and well developed roots and healthy grass come next summer. You have 2 weeks to plant your spring bulbs – do this by the middle of the month. Seeds of spring annuals can still be sown. This is also a good time to establish new fynbos plantings and trees. Should we get rain that is.

In the food garden, you can sow all winter veggies – brassicas, broad beans, peas, lettuce, carrots, turnips,

beetroot and radishes. Transplants will take quickly.

Fertilise all citrus trees with a balanced fertiliser. Mulch fruit trees well. You can start with the training and trellising of espaliered fruits. Prepare for winter storms by making sure there is adequate drainage and that all trees are properly tied to their stakes. Cover crops can still be sown. Vetch, wheat, rye, clover and fava beans are all good choices in our soil. I have experimented with fodder radish as a cover crop in very compacted soils – and got some exciting results.

May is olive time. We have already started harvesting our Frantoia trees – nothing says autumn like the first flow of liquid gold from the oil press. Table olives should be ripe for processing. Not that I process mine much! They get washed and placed in large containers filled with a 10% salt solution. And then I seal them and forget about them. It is only now, a year later, when I need the containers for the new crop that I would open last year’s olives. They are always beautiful and ready to be bottled in a 5% salt solution with a little bit of olive oil on top.

Alyssum is a stalwart in any and every garden. If you need a very good reason to plant it, how about this one: Bees, butterflies, birds and other “good” insects are very partial to Alyssum. This is as a result of the strong honey fragrance of the flowers as well as the nectar it produces.

Alyssum enjoys sun or semi-shade and prefers a rich, very well drained soil. It tolerates light frost and grows ±15cm tall and ±20cm wide. Available colours include white, pink, purple, citrus, violet, lavender and deep rose.

The uses for Alyssum are varied. Generally used as a filler in containers, it has a slightly aggressive trailing habit and spills beautifully over the edges of pots and hanging baskets. Due to this trailing and mounding habit it creates a wonderful, thick carpet of colour in your flower beds if planted en masse. Alyssum is shallow rooted, low and spreading and because of this habit, you can use it as a “living mulch”. It helps to reduce the rate of evaporation of moisture in the soil and assists in controlling the ever present, lurking weeds.

www.lifeisagarden.co.za

Bring back the rains!

Implications of persistent drought in the Western Cape

The Berg River Dam on 9 April

The agricultural sector has overall survived the worst of the recent drought that gripped the country over the past three years; however, the Western Cape has not been as fortunate – damn levels are low and the lack of rain has led to decreasing soil moisture that is threatening production.

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) reported that dam levels have eased marginally as we approach the end of the rainy season in the summer production areas, reaching 73.7% full versus 54.8% last year during the week ended 03 April 2017. In contrast, the winter rainfall areas of the Western Cape (WC) did not receive sufficient rainfall and dam levels remain critically low at 24.2% full compared to 31.2% last year this time.

“Recent weather forecasts indicate that we might

see a return of the El Nino weather pattern in the new season (2017/18), however, it is early days as the situation may improve. Already, the weather forecasts have signalled a possibility of above normal rainfall for late autumn to mid-winter which is a welcome relief for the Western Cape winter crop areas” says Paul Makube, Senior Agricultural Economist at FNB Business.

Makube shares some implications from the drought that is gripping the agricultural sector in the Western Cape.

Wine: Production volumes have declined. However, the drier conditions in general mean improved quality of wine. The lower volumes may lead to a modest increase in prices to the benefit of producers.

Fruit and vegetables: Not all areas in the Western Cape are badly affected by the drought: an example is

Rainfall Figures Measured at La Cotte/Nerina Street for periods indicated mm/year 2005

916

2006

884

2007

1153

2008

1217

mm/month

Dam Levels 2017

2016 Month

Accumulative

Month

Accumulative

January

27

27

28

28

February

9

36

1

29

March

57

93

11

40

55

As at 17 April 2017 Steenbras Upper

49.6%

Steenbras Lower

33.4%

148

Wemmershoek

35.9%

2009

978

April

2010

740

May

28

176

Voëlvlei

21.1%

June

198

374

Theewaterskloof

18.7%

July

209

583

August

73

656

Berg River Dam

34.1%

2011

830

2012

1079

2013

1471

September

56

712

2014

1033

October

14

726

24.1%

2015

661

November

6

732

754

December

22

754

Total Storage This Time Last Year

2016

Total Storage

29.9%

the Ceres region which is reportedly doing fine. We must however differentiate between water available for human consumption and that for irrigation. Although the situation with dam levels is dire, some farmers have onfarm water storage capacity for irrigation which is not for human consumption. Nonetheless, some vegetable farmers who do not have this capacity are expected to face a bleak future if it does not rain sooner.

Grain production: The rainy season normally starts beginning of May, so everything is not yet lost.

Fortunately, the rainfall outlook has improved with the possibility of above-normal showers in the winter ahead which will be beneficial for wheat and other winter crops. This will also help alleviate the current water shortages across the Western Cape. Some farmers have

opted to diversify into barley production, a product only produced in the southern Cape in the past.

Livestock: The persistent drought conditions are devastating for livestock producers especially for beef and dairy. Stock reduction will result in elevated prices. During a drought, animals lose condition and production suffers which erodes the farmer’s margins.

“While both the overall SA producer and consumer inflation are expected to moderate in the coming months, local trends may remain stubbornly high if the drought conditions persists. The agri-value chain may come under pressure and impede potential job growth in the sector. With that said we remain hopeful that the much needed rains will return in the coming month,” concludes Makube.

12

Franschhoek Tatler

May 2017

LEOPARD’S LEAP SAUVIGNON BLANC LEOPARTINI

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

100 ml Leopard’s Leap Sauvignon Blanc 25 ml vodka 12,5 ml ginger syrup 50 ml berry juice blueberries for garnish

1) Pour the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice-cubes.

2) Stir for 30 seconds.

3) Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

4) Granish with the blueberries.

LIMBIK/8088/E/2017

A sophisticated addition of leopard print is quite a fun part of fashion but if you find this a bit daring, why not add something spotty to your sundowner?

Inspired by their dedicated support of the Cape Leopard Trust and the plight of the Cape Mountain Leopard, Leopard’s Leap have developed the Leopard’s Leap Sauvignon Blanc Leopartini. It will add fun and fabulosity to your repertoire of winter drinks!

Don’t be intimidated - get to know your car

Most of us don’t know much about the inner workings of our cars. But what’s stopping us from asking questions when it comes to servicing and repairs? Nothing, except possibly our pride. “Your best line of defence is to ask the right questions from the get go,” says Vishal Premlall, Director of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA). “By asking the right questions and showing you have an idea of what should be done to your vehicle, you are setting the tone for a frank conversation with your mechanic and getting a good pre-service idea of the state of your vehicle.”

While there are many questions you could ask your mechanic, Premlall recommends starting with these basics: “Firstly, ask about your cam belt. Does the vehicle have a cam belt and if so, when was it last changed?

The cam belt synchronises the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft(s) so that the engine's valves open and close at the proper times during each cylinder's intake and exhaust strokes. The lifespan of cam belts varies depending on the manufacturer. It is best to refer to your vehicle handbook for a guide on when the cam belt should be changed.”

“Next you should ask about the condition of your

brake pads and at what limit they should be changed.

Brake pads should be replaced at 70% of total ware to ensure the safety of the driver. It’s also important that your mechanic inspects the brake discs so ensure you suggest that this is done.”

The third question you should be asking, says Premlall, is whether your brake fluid and radiator coolant needs to be changed. “It’s also important to ask how often this should be done and whether it was done at your last service.”

Personal safety is obviously a concern for most drivers, so asking about the state of the airbags, seatbelts and ABS is also a must. “A light appearing on your dashboard is not a guarantee that the ABS is working correctly. ABS (Anti-lock braking system) allows the wheels on your vehicle to maintain traction with the road surface, preventing the wheels from locking up and avoiding uncontrolled skidding. Your mechanic will be able to check that the system is working correctly and the airbags are programmed to deploy in the event of a collision.”

Premlall says the last question you should be asking is for the mechanic to contact you with a quote, should he find any other work that needs to be done.

“The quote should include an approximate cost for the parts and labour. Remember that preventative maintenance through early detection can prove more cost effective in the long term.”

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions and expect

comprehensive answers from your mechanic. Make sure that your mechanic is accredited with an industry body such as MIWA to ensure you have access to recourse should the service you receive not be up to scratch,” he concludes.

Franschhoek Tatler

13

Tatler Motoring Michele Lupini

Amarok ups the bakkie ante

Were I to ask you if you’d ever buy a bakkie for three-quarters of a million rand a few years ago, I think you’d ask me for a bit of what I was smoking.

Indeed, now that it can be grown in the back garden, you may well still ask; but it is almost fact now that Volkswagen is asking just R2k less than that for the flagship Amarok — and this is just the start.

Volkswagen’s latest incarnation of its double cab pick-up not only benefits a fresh new look, the new Amarok is now also available with a much-anticipated new 165kW 3-litre turbodiesel V6 and bristling with an all-new interior, the latest in in-car safety and a level of spec previously reserved for luxury cars and SUVs. The 550Nm Amarok 3.0-litre V6 TDI is also the only six-cylinder diesel bakkie on the market to ensure a record-breaking 8-second 0-100km/h dash and top speed of 193km/h.

You will notice the new Amarok by it’s refreshed front end style including a redesigned front bumper and radiator grille, new alloy wheels and a third brake light, but the changes are more prominent inside with an all-new dash design incorporating Volkswagen’s modular infotainment system with touchscreen radio, App-Connect, Bluetooth and an iPod/iPhone compatible USB interface.

A comprehensive list of safety equipment includes four airbags, ESP and an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, which can reduce the chance or severity of a secondary accident in the event of a collision.

Available in Comfortline, Highline, Highline Plus and Extreme comfort levels, the base 4-cylinder 103kW Amarok 2.0 TDI continues with a 6-speed

manual transmission and the option of permanent 4Motion four-wheel drive. Step up to the tried and tested 132kW 2.0 BiTDi in 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmissions and the option of the selectable 4Motion on the derivatives and again to the all-new 165kW 3.0 TDI V6 that now tops the range.

Amarok retains all its dimensions at 5.25m long, 2.23m wide and 1.83m high with a 2.52m2 load bay capable of accommodating a Euro pallet sideways and the ability to tow a 3.3-ton braked trailer. It is also expected to retain its position as a technically advanced bakkie that’s as comfortable to drive, as it is rugged and capable over rough terrain; which is now likely to pique the interest of buyers who may previously have shopped in the classic car or SUV segments.

So, getting back to that R750k — it is indeed a big step for bakkies, but it is likely just the first of a few with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz X-Class set to join this revolutionary flagship Amarok before too long. And yes — the bakkie certainly is now quickly becoming something many would never expect it would be.

Read more of Michele Lupini and his team’s motoring views in Bakkie & Car magazine on sale on village bookshelves now.

Rookie Giordano on the polo pace

Franschhoek racer making a strong impression 16- year-old Franschhoek racing driver Giordano Lupini has made an impressive start to his Engen Polo Cup career since stepping up to national championship racing this year. The Bridge House Grade 11 scholar has shown great promise and qualified impressively every time before going on to show solid pace and regularly lead the rookie standings, but he has been dogged by bad luck in the four races so far.

“I qualified ninth for my debut race at Killarney and I was leading rookie in 8th in that race when I lost third and fourth gears on the last lap and I had to tour home well down the Giordano Lupini impressed again at Kyalami pack,” Giordano explained. of those things and as tough as it’s been, we have “Then I was taken out on the first lap of race 2, so I some great positives to take out of it, so we are was really looking forward to Kyalami at the end of really looking forward to East London later in May. April and things went very well again in qualifying up Hopefully we can be third time lucky there and I can there, but I ran into gearbox trouble again and was finally deliver some results worthy of the pace we forced out of both races.” have already shown.”

Polo Cup, as it is popularly known, is the recognised “I would like to specially thank my team Pepper breeding ground of South African racing talent and Racing for all their effort — we will get it right soon — young Lupini’s pace out of the box in this tough as well as my hometown sponsors — La Vie de Luc, racing arena has been among the highlights of the CIR Construction and BP Franschhoek — acciDent rookie pack. His progress has not gone unnoticed.

Guru and Cornright Motors and of course my folks “Motor racing is tough sometimes,” Giordano for making this all happen. Bring on East London!” concluded. “This patch of bad luck is just one

Photo: Paul Bedford

May 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

14

Fleur de Lis Nuus

FWV News Reinher Behrens

Leigh Reabow

On 8 March the front lawn of Fleur de Lis was buzzy once again with our eager residents and friends for the AmaKierie-Kierie Sportfees.

We had a total of 5 teams enter this year from all over the Western Cape, with around 60 participants – all over the age of 60 years.

The competition was tough this year, with participants having practiced for a full year leading up to the event. Once again, the most popular events were the Bokdrol Spoeg and the Bean Bag Toss.

It was wonderful to keep the winning trophy in Franschhoek this year, with Dennegeur coming in tops. Well done!

The spirit was high and the dance floor was seldom empty. All of the teams made a huge effort to represent their teams as best they could, however it was Ons Tuiste from Bellville who walked away with the "Gees" Award.

We were very privileged to have fellow Franschhoeker and ex-Springbok Rugby Player, De Villiers Visser, join us as our guest of honour. His

DStv Franschhoek Bastille Festival

passion and dedication to the game touched all of us.

As massive thank you must go to the Board Members of Fleur de Lis, for their support (and yummy food), Feedem for the amazing prizes, Music by Rainer for keeping us moving, Trish Heywood for the incredible photos, the Fleur de Lis management and nursing staff for their support, both during the preparations and on the day and then, of course, every single person who came to help on the day. Without all of you this day wouldn't be possible.

We look forward to the next AmaKierie Kierie Sportfees on 7 March 2018. Start practicing in the meantime and enter your team of over 60s!

Hospice News Colleen Douglas

Evelyn Africa, who started working at Hospice in 2002 as a housekeeper/translator, has been promoted to shop manager. She has grown over time and has fulfilled many duties outside her job description.

Assisting in the shop and helping with fundraising.

She is a most willing and pleasant person – always greeting you with a smile. She is very excited about her promotion and cannot wait to welcome you.

We congratulate Evelyn Africa on her promotion and wish her great success.

Literary Festival – 19th and 20th May The following will be on sale from 9.00am till 15.00pm: Books @ R5.00 • Boerewors Rolls @ R20.00 • Bottled Water @ R10.00

“One man alone can never fix all the problems.”

Msindisi Kwini represents the Franschhoek Youth House on the Franschhoek Youth Forum. He decided to join the Forum as he believes no one can work in isolation while trying to fix the many problems youths face today. We simply have to work together.

The Youth Forum gives him the space to brainstorm with other youth leaders and allows him the opportunity to share ideas on how to counter some of the problems the youth face. Msindisi matriculated from Groendal Secondary School in 2003 and decided to enroll for a Diploma course in Civil Engineering at the Buffalo City College in the Eastern Cape. However as he was already deeply involved in his church’s choir since he was 16 years old, he decided to return to Franschhoek. In 2006 he took up a position as a sales representative at the Photo Lab and assisted with printing of photos and small graphic design tasks.

In his free time he worked with the church choir and was always concerned about the young members of the choir. He would talk to them about their education and their personal growth and dreams – about life skills.

Msindisi’s efforts were recognized when he won a Franschhoek Youth Award in 2008 in the Arts and Culture portfolio. This allowed him to then work very closely with other youth leaders in the valley who were

What’s Happening @ SPCA

busy doing good work with youth. As he became more socially conscious he decided to move on from his job at the Photo Lab and took up the position as a Community Support Officer in the Franschhoek Youth House under the Stellenbosch Municipality.

One of the first things Msindisi did was to market the services of all the NGOs in the valley working with youth. It struck him that there were so many organizations working with youth, but still many young people were not aware of the services. At the same time he opened the doors of the Youth House for youth to type their CVs, to use the internet for school assignments and created an information desk where youth can get valuable information about available services.

Msindisi indeed has a lot of experience in working with youth in the valley and therefore his role on the Youth Forum is to provide advice, but also share the plans and programmes of the municipality. His vision for the Youth Forum is that the structure continues to help develop youth leaders as the leadership problem in our country is enormous. We need principled, selfless leaders who stand in service of others. He would want to see that the Youth Forum members who leave the Forum due to reaching the maturity age of 35, becomes personal mentors of current Forum members.

Rotary News Mark Tanner

Developing Supporting Youth Leaders in the Valley Contact Jeremy Davids (Director) 082 472 5156 jdavids@thecharter.org.za

SPCA News

Errol Cunnama & Graeme Comrie

Jeremy Davids

Fhk Youth Forum Presents Msindisi Kwini

15 & 16 July 2017 Berets in hand. Check. Red; white and blue outfit planned to perfection. Check. French flair. Check.

Now you’re ready to celebrate this year’s DStv Franschhoek Bastille Festival on15 and 16 July in style!

DStv are the proud partners of this year’s Franschhoek Bastille Festival, adding an extra special offering to the festivities with the introduction of an exclusive four-day hospitality package. Valid from 13 to 16 July this offering is perfectly suited to those with an adventurous spirit and promises to be the ultimate Franschhoek experience. Inspired by joie de vivre a limited number of packages are available to celebrate the joy of living – the French way! The package includes participation in the Contre La Montre, a mountain bike race against the clock in a ten-segment time trial, held over three days. This is a new mountain biking concept in South Africa and is better suited to fit and experienced mountain bike riders. The package also includes luxury accommodation, access to exclusive functions, all meals as per the programme, as well as a partners’ programme and day activities to enjoy some of the finest experiences available in Franschhoek.

The Joie de Vivre packages are available at R30 000 per couple excluding VAT. For more information please contact Robert Cook at robert@openfield.co.za.

The Food & Wine Marquee, which festivalgoers can visit during the weekend of the 15 and 16 July, is set against the backdrop of the historic Huguenot Monument and is the place to be. As winter sets in the marquee is guaranteed to keep out the cold, yet still offer exquisite views of the mountain. Ample parking on the grounds allows for comfortable walking distance to and from the village. Sample the superb Franschhoek wines on offer or treat your taste buds to the selection of delicious gourmet fare available to purchase from

Last year the Rotary Club of Franschhoek Valley helped to donate a car to Hospice. 'Helped', because being international it is possible for local Rotary clubs to raise sponsorships and donations from other Rotary clubs worldwide. In this case it was the Rotary Club of Hereford in the UK who stepped in and provided the necessary to allow us to purchase. Once more we are involved in an undertaking in aid of Hope Through Action who are in need of a vehicle.

Watch this space next month!

Charity Golf Day Tuesday, 23 May 2017 @ Pearl Valley Golf Estate We are having our Annual Charity Golf Day and we hope to raise more than the R111 000 that was raised last year.

Please join us for a fun day of golf or bid on our online auction to help us raise money: www. southernstroll.com/charitygolfday.html 100 Club - Friends of Franschhoek SPCA Join 100 Club Members by donating R100 for 12 months and have a chance of winning the monthly draw (R1 000 for 11 months & R2 000 for the final draw). The first draw will be on the 31 May, so hurry to book your space.

E-mail: spca@southernstroll.com to book confirm your participation.

May 2017 some of Franschhoek’s well-known eateries.

Add the quirky caricature artist who captures your Bastille experience, the popular Porcupine Ridge Barrel Rolling Competition and a dedicated children’s area, and you have all the ingredients for a fun-filled festival.

Tickets to the Food & Wine Marquee cost R280 person and include entry, a complimentary tasting glass and a booklet of five wine tasting coupons.

Additional coupons can be purchased on the day.

Tickets are limited. To avoid disappointment prebooking through www.webtickets is advised.

Adding that extra zest, the village will be kitted out in its finest French flair, as you take in the sights and sounds of all that’s on offer. Boules, markets, fine food and so much more. www.franschhoekbastille.co.za

Bubbly festival wins

The winners of the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM), 6th Annual Mayoral Tourism Awards were announced on Wednesday, 29 March 2017 in the Wellington Town Hall.

Franschhoek’s Cap Classique and Champagne Festival walked off with the prize for best tourism related event/festival of the year. In the photos are FLTR: Ald (Dr) Helena von Schlicht (Executive Mayor of CWDM), Tania Steyn (Franschhoek Wine Valley), Reinher Behrens (Franschhoek Wine Valley) and Cllr Dirk Swart (Deputy Executive Mayor of CWDM).

Pet Food Drive @ Pick ’n Pay We have a trolley at the large Pick ’n Pay and we would appreciate it if you can donate pet food when you next go shopping at Pick ’n Pay. Sterilization Day on 30 March 2017 With the help of Dr Ilze of the Stellenbosch Animal Hospital, we had a Sterilization Day on 30 March in Langrug, in the informal settlement, where a total of 47 animals were treated during the day.

Sterilizing a significant number of animals will have a positive impact on the number of unwanted puppies and kittens in our community.

Another Sterilization Day took place on Thursday, 20 April, in Langrug.

Do you know the Franschhoek SPCA wish list?

To ensure that the SPCA runs smoothly, we need some suppliers and we call on you all to please help us.

Please visit www.franschhoekspca.co.za/our-wishlist/ to see our comprehensive list of items and how you and your business can assist.

Thank you to everyone who supports the Franschhoek SPCA – we really appreciate your assistance.

FVFC squad announcement

Franschhoek Valley Football Club, established in September 2016, announced their under-13 side in Mid-March. They are: Sakumzi Potina, Daniel de Jongh, Kearabetswe Masiy, Athenkosi Gibiselo, Kamva Sifuba, Joshua de Jongh, Ntando Mashiqa, Jake Downie, Lisakanya Hlangani, Joey Baylet, Welcome Maqwara, Ricardo Krediet, Asenathi Va, Avumile Sinxutu, Philla Gosa, Emihle Zazaza, Thandolwethu Mathu and Asonele Elija.

The club is a partnership between Black Elephant Vintners (sponsors) and sport management company Forward Zone. Their aim is to give children from the Franschhoek Valley, the opportunity to play club football with a chance to develop into future professional players. Though currently limited to an under-13 boy’s side the intention is to expand the number of teams by the 2018 season. The club programme’s objective is to develop the team into well-rounded individuals both on and off the field.

Training sessions, under the watchful eye of

Probus Club Julie Mitchell • On Monday, 1 May 2017, Eugene Du Toit will talk on ‘Development of the St Helena Airport and Port – making one of the most remote islands in the world accessible!

• In June Peter Nicolle will talk on Learning to Paint (Art).

What is probus all about?

In South Africa there is a rapidly growing number of Probus Clubs, which offer retirees the facility to manage successfully the transition from high pressure executive, professional and other vocational activity to a calmer way of life.

Another Score for the Franschhoek Valley

coach Azola Tafeni, are held 4 days a week at the Franschhoek Valley Community Sports Centre. The participating schools are Franschhoek High School, Groendal Primary School, Dalubuhle Primary School, Bridge House School, Wemmershoek Primary School and Wes Eind Primary School.

Anyone would like to support or sponsor the team is welcome to contact Daniel Costa at 072 705 0673 or daniel@forwardzone.com www.franschhoekvalleyfc.co.za This is achieved through these features of membership: • Opportunities to extend compatible social contacts and maintain an 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.

• Support in grief and illness.

• Speakers at monthly luncheons who provide a fresh mental challenge and stimulation.

• We are a-political and non-sectarian • We are mindful of the fact that costs are an important consideration. Membership fees, therefore, are kept to a minimum; while monthly luncheon costs vary.

• Probus is not a Service/Fund Raising organization.

If you are interested in joining or just wish to come along to any meeting please contact me on 083 303 333 5.

May 2017

Letters

info@franschhoektatler.co.za Knowing it’s Sunday I must admit, that April fool “master plan for Franschhoek 2038” was brilliant. Particularly as most of the letters in the Tatler are always about the Franschhoek Heritage. And charm. And intimacy.

And mystery. As the letter Roaring Motorcycles states. Well, the motor cyclists come but one day. On a Sunday! I love the sound of them coming down the pass, knowing it’s Sunday. They’re here by 08h00 and gone by 10h30 latest. I don’t see how that is taking away Franschhoek’s intimacy and mystery…

Speedbumps? Causes more pollution from slowing down and pulling away. Not such a good idea I think.

Maybe we should ask the motorcyclists to switch on their mute buttons when coming into Franschhoek.

Regards, Shaz Simons

Fire season thanks Now that we’re (hopefully) nearing the end of the fire season I’d like to thank Ashley Bauer and the rest of the Franschhoek ward for all their work during the past season. It was an honour working along all of you on the fire line.

I’ve learned a lot and am humbled by the collective knowledge, bravery and hardworking, selfless attitude of everyone. It will be impossible to quantify in Rands the amount of assets that were saved by the quick response of volunteers this past summer.

Natie Ferreira

Another planning problem Dear Madam Mayor Following from the article in the Franschhoek Tatler of March 2017, I have to bring to your attention that the exact same situation is busy playing off at 8 De Wet Street, Franschhoek. The new owner, to believe a Mr. J. Fischer has started about a month ago to convert two buildings on the property, zoned for Industrial purposes, into 8 loft apartments (general residential), without any land use rights (rezoning) in place, or ant building plans being approved, or even submitted to the local authority for consideration.

I have lodged complaints with the Chief Building Inspector some time ago. Although I was informed that the required notices were served on the property owner to cease works, absolutely nothing has happened. The owner is working, even on Sundays, and the conversions will be completed within weeks.

The question is raised why an interdict was not obtained, as is believed to be the correct procedure?

All of a sudden I have a quite large window in a loft apartment overlooking the whole of the back- yard of my property (see attached photo), my swimming pool and the like. Here, I’m talking of a window that is approximately 2 meters away from my swimming pool. Furthermore, I’m convinced that part of the asbestos roofing (on the sides of the shed- building) has been removed without any of the required regulations been followed.

Now, the question to you is, why law- abiding citizens, like myself, still need to apply for building plan approval? Not even to talk about zoning rights (in terms of the approved Planning By- law of the local authority). It took me almost 6 months to obtain building pan approval for ‘minor building works’, where such application needed to be considered by the local heritage committee, etc. This whilst others can just go ahead, change the use of buildings and a property, and nothing gets done to rectify the situation. I’m convinced that, should the local authority eventually take the property owner to court, nothing will really matter anymore. If there was any heritage value to the building facing De Wet Street…. it is gone! Eventually, there will be nothing left of the ambience this village portrayed for years, all thanks to lack of action by the local authority.

This is just another example of ‘do as you wish’, and the inability of the local authority to take the

Franschhoek Tatler required actions, is questioned. Is it an issue of favors for some? Furthermore, as a DA-led municipality, it is questioned why the said political party is at all times eager to question other political parties why they do not enforce the legislation under their jurisdiction…. but at the home turf ?

I, as property owner, can just hope that the Franschhoek Trust and Ratepayers Association will eventually be successful in pressurizing the local authority to take some form of responsibility, as is required by law.

Kind regards J J Cronje Editor’s Note: Since this letter was received Stellenbosch Municipality has referred the matter for legal action.

Re: Cabriere Street Planning Blues The letter from Mr Pickstone-Taylor in response to my article Cabrière Street Planning Blues refers.

I don’t intend to launch into a quasi-legal tirade on behalf of a ‘neighbour’ but wish to point out the following: We stand by all that was published. Is it disingenuous to suggest that events that occurred after publication should somehow have been predicted and incorporated.

Mr Pickstone-Taylor’s allegation that I was writing on behalf of a relative illustrates that he failed to research the subject and discover that MY property in van Wijk St is about 50m from the proposed development.

Why does he object to my quoting minutes of Heritage Western Cape because it portrays his ‘neighbour’ in an unfavourable light? Minutes are an accurate record of what was said or discussed. They are not made up.

Mr de Vries seems unable to make up his mind about whether the house on the property has heritage status or not. He and or his consultants have made frenzied efforts to say it doesn’t and that it is “ungradable” – so as to justify their destruction of it. Yet, if you google Maison Cabrière, it says, “In the heart of the Franschhoek scenic Cape Winelands,(sic) we are currently renovating a heritage building into a six-suite……etc. Heritage Western Cape in its latest communication says, “The committee is of the opinion that grading of the building is grade IIIC as it contributes to the heritage context in a heritage area.”

In HWC’s Grading guidelines a building meets the criteria of a Grade IIIC Heritage Resource if “Such a resource is of contributing significance.”

It should be noted that way back, after HWC approved the original set of plans, Mr de Vries flouted the approved plans, particularly the permitted height, hence his current demolition work.

Most worrying about the whole thing is that it is part of the growing trend of ‘development by stealth’.

First you buy the property and tell the neighbours that you and your family plan to live there. Then your architect’s representative comes to ask permission to deviate from the building lines, failing to inform you that this is a proposed hotel and not a residence.

After approval of plans for a residence and several subsequent deviations, you have a light bulb moment and say to yourself, “Hey this would make a great hotel”. This is clearly not the case. Had Mr de Vries been upfront about his plans, he might not have encountered such opposition from his neighbours.

The proposed hotel already has a website, and a vehicle touting it on a door is driving around town, presenting it as a fait accompli. But yet the property is not zoned for a hotel, but Single Residential.

His rezoning application has met with strong opposition from the neighbourhood. The DA Council, that is constantly mouthing off about municipalities and government departments living by the rules, must also do so themselves.

Before the original article was published, it was emailed to Mr de Vries for comment. He failed to respond. Now it seems a ‘neighbour’ is writing on his behalf. Mr Pickstone-Taylor suggests that Mr de Vries is a good neighbour. We are glad for Mr PickstoneTaylor. To us, hugely affected by the development, the flouting of regulations and the deceptions, he has proven himself anything but a good neighbour.

Penny Gordon

Mayoral Fund established

A Mayoral Fund was recently established to assist people in need. Mayor Gesie van Deventer said that “the heart-breaking requests [I receive] for assistance from people in real and desperate need are really sad and I have a duty to provide help and assistance where possible. [The fund] will enable me to make a difference in the lives of some of our most vulnerable communities.”

The Mayoral Fund relies on donations and does not use municipal funding at all. To raise funds for the Mayoral Fund, a Mayoral Golf Day was organised on Thursday, 6 April 2017, with the assistance of the Stellenbosch Golf Club. The event raised R100 000 for the fund and will become an annual event.

On receiving the donation the mayor said that her special focus will be on assisting the homeless, victims of fires and destitute children.

Free museum entry!

Museums around the world will be celebrating

Mayor van Deventer (right) and Councillor Rikus Badenhorst (left) accept a R100 000 donation to the new Mayoral Fund from Stellenbosch Golf Club President Dr Edwin Hertzog (centre).

International Museum Day on 18 May 2017. In an effort to reach more local people the Huguenot Memorial Museum will offer free entry to SA citizens on this day.

Editor’s Letter

Siegfried Schäfer

Dear Readers, Have you also noticed the recent proliferation of cellphone masts and antennas around the village?

The first time I noticed it was while driving back from Stellenbosch late one early-April afternoon.

Approaching La Provence along the R45, with the sun beginning to set over my right shoulder, my eyes were caught by a glinting, silver technological marvel. Rising dead ahead of me was a new cellphone mast.

What shocked me most about it was that from where I was on the R45 it perfectly bisected my view of Middagkrans and shortly after seemed to reach out to touch the ‘F’ of Franschhoek where it is spelled out on the mountain. Damn, I thought, another fine view f*cked!

A few days later, walking along Huguenot Street I spotted something peeking over the roof of the Post Office. The Telkom microwave tower now also sports cellphone antennas and, so it appears, a few more metres in height.

I am not about to ditch my cellphone because I object to the placement (and appearance) of some cellphone masts, but I will add my voice to an increasing number in Stellenbosch that are urging authorities to urgently develop a policy regarding the erection of these useful blights on our landscapes.

There used to be a time when cellphone companies tried to hide or, at least, mitigate the visual impact of their cellphone masts. Occasionally one still sees some of these rather ridiculous looking efforts. Usually they took the shape of trees – pines and palms three times the height of any living tree in the area seemed to be the preferred typologies.

These days cellphone companies don’t seem to care much about aesthetics anymore. Their

15 business models have moved on: They prefer to no longer own their own masts and with that any effort at visual mitigation has gone out the window.

Private concerns now erect these masts and lease space on them to cellphone companies. I cannot help but think that there are always people around who care for little other than money. On second thought, that may be a bit unfair, I suppose they probably also care about clear cellphone reception!

I turned to Google to see if I could find any examples of cellphone masts/antennas that were sensitively integrated into their environments. I found the expected plethora of terrible trees, but there were also some better and even a few good efforts. Here’s a sampling: In Arizona there are several huge cacti – somewhat reminiscent of the kind of roadside attractions that Route 66 is known for. In Lake Worth, Florida, a mast next to a church is in the shape of a giant cross. Rising from the town square of an unidentified European village is a mast that is integrated into a piece of contemporary sculpture and even lit up at night. Also in Europe antennas mounted to a church belfry are painted to look like the brickwork, making them practically invisible. Another example shows a less terrible tree – primarily because it is only a few metres higher than the trees it shares a parking lot with.

What appears to be an old wooden water tank rises above the landscape outside a Wyoming town. For patriots there is also the option of turning it into a giant flagpole. (Texas!!)

Probably the best examples of how deal with the aesthetics of cellphone masts that I came across were by a company that integrates them into the structure of buildings – think chimneys, turrets, towers, belfries & towers.

My conclusion is that there clearly are aesthetically pleasing ways to deal with the need for cellphone masts, but they require creativity, proper planning and money – three things that are far too seldom found in the same place.

Until next month!

Deadlines - April 2017 Issue: Ad Bookings: 15 March 2017 Artwork: 15 March 2017 Editorial: 15 March 2017

Dennegeur hou loopbaanuitstalling

Die Dennegeur Bemagtigingsvennootskap en die Rupertstigting het op 6 April ‘n loopbaanuitstalling aangebied in die Dennegeur gemeenskapsaal.

Verskeie opvoedkundige instansies – waaronder die drie Wes Kaapse universiteite, plaaslike owerheidsinstansies soos die brandweer en verkeerspolisie en staatsentiteite soos die SAPS en SA Nasionale Lugmag was teenwoordig. Die uitstalling was gemik op die kinders van ouers wat op die onderskeie Rupertplase in die omgewing werksaam is. Leerders vanaf Graad 8 tot Graad 12 het die uitstalling bygewoon.

Vir baie van die leerders was die dag se twee hoogtepunte die motiveringspraatjie deur die voormalige Bloubulspeler Chelton April en die SAPS, brandweer- en verkeersdienste se demonstrasie.

Met die Tatler se besoek het groepies leerders ordelik van een uitstaller na die ander beweeg en aandagtig geluister na die aanbieders se vertellings oor loopbaanaangeleenthede in hulle onderskeie velde.

Baie vrae is gevra en dit was duidelik dat die geleentheid nuwe horisonne geopen het vir die leerders.

Die Stellenbosse verkeersafdeling se uitstalling was ‘n gewilde bestemming tydens Dennegeur se loopbaanuitstalling. In die foto is (regs van voertuig) Luwellen Alberts, Leverd Visagie, Lee-Ann Jansen en Jamie Stuurman saam met die verkeersafdeling se Daniël Malan. Links is Francisco Appolus, Kimberley Williams, Amanda Rudolf, Semkelo Lase en Christopher Moos.

Change4Twenty - 20 Lives, 20 Futures!

As parents, we all want the best for our children and to be able to provide them with a solid education and hopeful future. However, in reality this can be a real challenge for most.

What if your child excelled in high school and you just weren’t financially able to afford to further their education?

“This is what many parents in the Franschhoek Valley are faced with. From farm labourers to kitchen staff in restaurants, these parents are all faced with the daunting reality that an education for their children after high school, is simply unaffordable and largely unobtainable,” states Tarryn Corlett, Founder of the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy and Learning Centre (FHALC).

Franschhoek is known as the Food and Wine Capital of the Western Cape and boasts a host of award winning restaurants, hotels, guesthouses, the Huguenot Monument and Museum, wineries and arts and crafts outlets. However, among all this beauty is a dire need for trained and skilled professionals within the hospitality industry. There just isn’t an affordable institution within this area to provide disadvantaged students/staff the opportunity to a well-recognized education and basic training. This is where the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy & Learning Centre comes in with high hopes of opening at the end of July with an affordable, almost free solution to the challenge so many local parents face.

“We have developed the Change4Twenty programme which is how we will pilot this initiative. Our aim is to provide 20 scholars with a first class internationally recognized education. The Franschhoek Hospitality Academy will operate from the Franschhoek Valley Community Sports

Centre in collaboration with Hope Through Action and Score,” states Michaela Julian (Trustee of FHALC).

Each student will receive 8 months of in-classroom training sponsored by the International Institute of Tourism & Management Bad Voeslau (Austria) as well as gaining access to the cutting-edge Lobster Ink supervised online learning courses. After 8 months these students will go for a 4 months’ internship in a hospitality establishment in the valley with the hopes of continuing their career and future in this exciting industry.

Before we can open our doors, we are calling on potential sponsors, funders, individuals, establishments and the public in general for some assistance to help us cover the setup costs in the form of monetary donations, IT equipment (tablets/laptops), goods and services or your time as an expert in this industry. Visit www.franschhoekhospitalityacademy.co.za to find out how you could get involved and assist in making sure the doors of this academy open soon.

We’ve got Change4Twenty, how about you? 20 Students, 20 lives to change in a year and so a very exciting, bursting-with-potential journey begins and we hope to see you along the way.

Franschhoek Tatler

16

Business Leadership Tony Frost

Creative Chaos and Managing Performance

Performance management is a challenge in any organisation – large or small; simple or complex.

There are so many factors to consider and that will impinge upon the performance of any individual or group. These range from some of the obvious ones: Skills and education; personality and emotions; group dynamics; current pressures on the person, the group, the division and the company; the state of politics in the country; and many more.

Often we tend to forget that the person who walks through the door does not, and cannot, leave the personal issues at the door and bring only the state of mind and focus that you wish to have at the workplace into the office or factory. The whole person comes in.

And this whole person may (and probably does) differ from day to day!

This is the person from whom the manager must extract optimum performance. Day after day!

In order to help and to provide the manager with some assistance we introduced the tyranny of the performance appraisal. This one-sided, power-imbalanced tool does little to enhance performance in the long run.

That performance needs to be managed is not in question at all. What needs intense scrutiny is the means we use to achieve this.

The first big mistake we make is to deal with this on an individual-by-individual basis and yet engage in doublespeak by telling everyone to work as a team and, indeed, even spending fortunes on team-building exercises!

It is difficult to comprehend this tool could have been invented by someone who understands team- and social dynamics of groups. There are few things better designed to cause dissention and upset in a team than the annual performance appraisal ritual. This system can only have been created by someone with a complete compliance mentality and one who needed measures to record into some system for purposes of comparison. And if there is a direct link between the appraisal and income this will almost certainly create even more unease and unhappiness.

Those who work in teams (and virtually everyone does) need to be managed as a team; and the team needs to participate in the provision of feedback to each member of the team as to how and what they can do to enhance the performance of the team as a whole.

This is how sporting teams operate. What makes a corporate or organisational team any different?

So what should we do?

First of all, performance is a continuum and so it should also be managed this way. Feedback should be constant and continuous, daily if possible.

Secondly, any action required should also be contiguous to the behaviour that needs focussing, or correcting, or enhancing.

Thirdly, there is ample evidence to show that regular

Financial Matters Celia McGuinness

Are you battling to get a tax refund? Tax Ombud to investigate SARS systems The Tax Ombud is now more independent of SARS and it hasn’t taken the Ombud long to flex these powers.

Over half of complaints received by the Ombud relate to the long time taken to get refunds to taxpayers. This relates to both Income Tax and VAT. The Ombud may launch investigations if systemic problems manifest themselves and the Ombud will probe whether the slowness of refunds is a systemic issue. The Minister of Finance has given the Ombud permission to proceed with the investigation.

SARS has welcomed the investigation and said it is

small rewards and acknowledgements are far more effective than one large bonus once a year.

Fourthly, the team should begin by jointly setting the goals and targets for the team and then for each individual in the team in line with the overall strategy of the organisation Fifthly, the appraising of the performance and results of the team should be conducted by the whole team as a team. Then it should address each of the components of the team to make sure that they are all working in synchrony and making the desired impact on overall team performance. Any rewards that flow should also be part of the team discussion so that there are no lingering suspicions that will negatively affect future performance.

It is no wonder that many major organisations are currently overhauling their performance management systems to take this kind of thinking and approach into account and to move away from the compliance mentality that has figured so prominently in the past.

So how do we translate this approach into one that enhances and promotes creativity? Creativity after all is the lifeblood of the organisation in the future.

Without it the company will wither and die.

Put creativity and/or innovation on the agenda of every team.

Creativity is hard, grinding work. It is seldom the result of a blinding flash of insight and usually it is a step-by-step process. Plan for it to happen this way.

Make sure that there is a target for the introduction of new ideas, practices and behaviour.

Creativity is not something that should happen in isolation. And seldom does. Often it is the result of focussing on a seemingly insurmountable problem.

Strive to manage and encourage a creative approach to everything we need to understand and capitalise on this dynamic. Create targets for change.

Make sure teams are measuring the right things in the right way and are being given the right feedback.

Once you have the targets, the focus, the feedback is logical and the appropriate changes will follow.

Grow consciously, carefully and judiciously Many organisations have crashed and burned because they allowed themselves to grow too quickly.

Manage the growth and the results will speak for themselves. Follow the Michelangelo injunction: “Just chip away at the pieces that don’t fit!”

You need the out-of-the-box unconventional crazies – encourage them.

All too often the unconventional types are punished.

Especially by performance management systems that are designed for accountants. Allow these people to be crazy. Create the safety nets for their foolishness.

Enjoy the huge successes that they will create!

Publicise and reward successes widely.

There are few joys that compare with shared success.

Just examine the faces of a victorious sporting team to appreciate this power. Power shared is power multiplied many times over. Harness this power by making sure the team is engaged, managed, rewarded and praised as a team. And share the success widely! tony@siroccostrategy.com confident of its systems, commenting: “Due to an increase in fraud, SARS has had to react by tightening up our Risk Rules. Despite such actions SARS has only referred 11% of cases for detailed audit. Regarding Personal Income Tax payment of 98.2% is paid within 72 hours.”

The problem is that the large refunds are generally in the 11% and 1.8% statistics quoted by SARS, and as small businesses are cash flow dependent, holding these back can threaten their solvency.

That’s all cold comfort to honest taxpayers made to wait for refunds genuinely due to them, and one can only hope that the Ombud’s intervention is successful in reducing the delays.

One should also remember that SARS will be R30 billion short in its revenue collections for the 2016/2017 year. The Minister of Finance has expressed concerns as the shortfall reverses the trend of SARS achieving or over-achieving its collection targets since 2009.

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 Unit 4 / 79 Artisan Village, Cabrière Street, Franschhoek, 7690 Tel: +27 (0)21 876 2592 Fax: +27 (0)21 876 2591 Email: susancharlesworth.law@telkomsa.net Also at 342 Val De Vie, Paarl www.susancharlesworth.co.za

May 2017

Drought relief; Internet access key priorities for Western Cape

Expanding access to affordable Internet and drought relief are key priorities for the Western Cape Government in the year ahead, said Alan Winde, MEC for Economic Opportunities, as he delivered the budget speeches for the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Economic Development and Tourism at the end of March.

Project Khulisa’s initiatives, aimed at strengthening the most competitive parts of our economy, namely tourism, oil and gas and agri-processing, are key objectives in the year ahead. There will be a focus on ensuring that small businesses are able to benefit from anticipated growth in these sectors.

"To boost Western Cape agri-processing, a fast growing sector which currently employs over 135 000 residents, we have put focused interventions in place to support emerging businesses in several competitive sub-segments, including in the Halal space. In 2017/18, we will invest R4 million to take local entrepreneurs through our Halal supplier development programme,” said MEC Winde.

In the oil and gas sector, DEDAT is working with the Saldanha Bay Industrial Development Zone Licensing Company to put together an enterprise development programme for local contractors, and a digital procurement portal which will enable small and emerging businesses to benefit from big international contracts landed here. It is set to go live in July.

MEC Winde said that through the Emerging Business Support Programmes, 2000 entrepreneurs have received the training they need to pursue their ambitions.

“In 2017/18, a further 1000 entrepreneurs will attend sessions across the province. We have been able to drive this programme over the past two years through our collaboration with the private sector, which shares in our commitment to growing entrepreneurs.”

To increase access to the new digital economy, the rollout of public Wi-Fi continues in the year ahead.

"Our Public Access Wi-Fi project with Neotel has seen the installation of 150 hotspots, with 250 new users signing up to the service each day. In the past year, 70 000 devices have connected to our public Wi-Fi hotspots. In 2017/18, a further 224 hotspots will be rolled out.”

MEC Winde said one of the biggest threats facing the economy was the impact of extreme weather events.

In 2017/18, R47 million will be set aside for drought relief, with a special focus on emerging entrepreneurs.

“In 2015, South Africa recorded its lowest rainfall in a calendar year since 1904. In the same year, the highest ever temperature recorded, 48.3 degrees Celsius, was measured at Vredendal. In the past two

years, drought and high temperatures, as well as floods and hail, have led to significant losses in agriculture.”

Losses in the agriculture sector include: • The loss of 200 000 tonnes of wheat due to insufficient rain during the 2015 winter; • A 15 percent decrease in fruit production in 2015/16 worth an estimated loss of R750 million; • The loss of 230 hectares of potatoes, which could not be planted due to the lack of water; • In livestock, it is estimated that in excess of 30 000 animals have been sold as farmers battle to feed their core herds; • A decline of 5 percent in the wine grapes harvested during 2016 due to high temperatures and lack of irrigation water. In rand terms, this loss amounted to an estimated R500 million; As a result of water restrictions agricultural economists are projecting a R112 million decrease in GVA and a possible drop of 1 728 available seasonal work opportunities.

Our budget is aimed at equipping farmers, especially emerging ones, with the support they need to mitigate further losses.

Anyone can give advice, but independent advice is priceless PSG Wealth Winelands offers • • •

Portfolio management Stockbroking Investment advice

Contact us at WINELANDS | T +27 (21) 863 3770 | E dawid.botha@psg.co.za | psg.co.za Klein Amsterdam, c/o Main Road and Berg River Boulevard, Paarl PSG Wealth Financial Planning (Pty) Ltd is an authorised financial services provider. FSP 728

May 2017

Let the Lawyer Handle It Graeme Falck

Facebook revenge: the defamation danger

“Good name in man and woman ... is the immediate jewel of their souls. Who steals my purse steals trash … but he that filches from me my good name robs me of that which not enriches him, and makes me poor indeed” (Shakespeare) Our laws of defamation are there to help you protect your good name from unlawful attack, and a recent High Court judgment about a defamatory Facebook post is a pertinent reminder of how this protection applies online as well as in the real world.

Neighbours, noisy chickens, smelly rabbits, and a “peeping tom” slur H and B are neighbours in a residential estate.

They argued over complaints which H lodged with the body corporate over B’s noisy chickens.

Later, when B replaced the chickens with rabbits, H complained about their smell.

B retaliated by publishing a statement on Facebook starting a smear campaign against H, accusing him of being a peeping tom, “a perverse neighbour, an idiot and an ugly piece of sh*t".

This Facebook message, which identified H by name, mentioned his place of residence and had a photo of him, was accessed by B’s friends and “a hundred other people”.

Having obtained a court interdict ordering B to retract her statement and remove his picture from Facebook,

Franschhoek Tatler H then sued her for R1.3m. B did not defend the matter, and the Court had to decide on the basis of H’s story alone (a) whether H had indeed been defamed and (b) if so, what damages to award him.

H told the Court that his reputation, good name and standing in the community had all been affected.

He had suffered shock, trauma, sleeplessness and depression, and his constitutional rights to privacy and dignity were infringed as a result of the post, which had provoked reactions including: Insinuations of paedophilia and child molestation Posts from other Facebook users like "shoot the bastard in the face with a pellet gun, the ugly two faced jurk (sic)" and he was called a pervert, a "flippen gemors", "a sick bleksem", "a monster", and "a disgusting piece of sh*t" Death threats, causing him to move to another residence on the estate (to no avail as it turned out, as B also moved, becoming his neighbour for the second time!)

“Suspicious looks” from other estate residents Loss of business clients (he ran a business in the estate).

Defamation being generally defined as 'the unlawful, intentional, publication of defamatory matter (by words or conduct) referring to the plaintiff, which causes his reputation to be impaired", the Court held that H had indeed been defamed and was entitled to compensation by way of damages.

Taking all the circumstances of the matter into account, the Court awarded H an amount of R350 000 plus costs.

(This article first appeared in LawDotNews and is reproduced with permission from the copyright holder DotNews and from Falck Attorneys. Graeme Falck is an experienced commercial attorney, litigant and conveyancer that resides in Franschhoek, with his practice in Stellenbosch. Graeme consults in Franschhoek.

Contact him on 082 8948075 or graeme@falckmb.co.za)

Stellenbosch Municipality and Leeu Collection develop budding talent

Stellenbosch Municipality in collaboration with Leeu Collection and with the help of eXtraordinary Solutions are embarking on a Mayoral Youth Skills Development Programme to develop 20 young and talented individuals from the Franschhoek area in the discipline of waitering.

The focus of this Mayoral Youth Skills Development Programme is to recruit and train youth between the ages of 18-25 to begin a career in the field of waitering. Youths are ultimately to be placed at hospitality businesses in the Franschhoek Valley, thus building Franschhoek into a centre of excellence in terms of service.

The programme will run for a period of 2 months and during that time learners will be provided with free training, transport and meals while training and working. Learners will be developed in a variety of personal, organisational and vocational skills in order to fulfil the function of a table attendant or waiter.

After completion of the programme, each successful individual will be enabled to effectively perform the duties of a restaurant waiter within a restaurant (food and beverage) environment to both NQF and international 5-star standards.

“An integral part to the success of this programme will be the involvement of the Leeu Collection management by providing mentors to each learner,” explains Carrie Wicks, Leeu Collection CEO. “These mentors will ensure all standards are being implemented with weekly nurturing and coaching that will guide individuals through the policies and etiquette of a 5-star hospitality environment.”

Successful learners will receive their certificates at an awards ceremony where the top performer and

Leeu Collection CEO, Carrie Wicks

runner up will also be announced. The winner will win a 3-course meal at one of the restaurants and the runner-up will win a wine tasting sponsored by the Leeu Collection. All successful candidates will be taken into consideration for a possibility of fulltime employment with a hospitality establishment in either Stellenbosch or Franschhoek based on their performance during the programme.

PSG Winelands Market View Dawid Botha

Amadeus IT Group

One of the reasons we invest internationally is that there are more opportunities to invest in companies which have strong global market positions; companies like Amazon and Google whose operations are extremely difficult to replicate. A European company that falls in this category is Amadeus IT Group, a Spanish IT company that provides software and systems to the travel and tourism industry. Amadeus is listed in Spain, has a market value of €20.5 billion and forms part of the Spanish IBEX 35 index, which is similar to the JSE Top 40 index.

Amadeus was founded in 1987 as a central booking system for the airlines Air France, Lufthansa (Germany), Iberia (Spain) and SAS (Scandinavia).

The company has since developed into a market leader for IT solutions for the travel industry.

Amadeus operates two divisions. The distribution division serves the consumers of travel services and mainly facilitates flight bookings, but also includes bookings for trains and hotels. These bookings mainly originate from travel agents who use Amadeus’s software to gain access to a central booking system that allows them to find the most suitable travel options for their clients. Amadeus earns a commission on each booking and the company facilitated more than 595 million bookings in 2016.

Amadeus currently handles 43% of the global travel agency flight bookings. This strong market position can be partly attributed to Amadeus software offering travel agents the widest range of options, which include more than 440 airlines. The scope and depth of Amadeus’s agreements with airlines are very hard to replicate which is a competitive advantage for Amadeus and their clients.

Amadeus’s IT solutions division serves another side of the travel industry: the suppliers of travel products and services. Amadeus’s solutions include software that allows airlines, hotels and airports

17 to seamlessly meet their operational requirements relating to bookings, ticketing, departure control and disruption management. Amadeus also consults with these companies to optimise their processes.

The scope of these operations is reflected therein that Amadeus software boarded more than 1.3 billion travellers in 2016. It is clear that Amadeus has strong annuity income in its operations, which reduces its investment risk.

Amadeus IT Group reported €4.47 billion in revenue for 2016 of which 65% can be attributed to the distribution division and 35% to the IT solutions division. While I briefly highlighted Amadeus’s main activities, the application of their software stretches much wider. The outstanding quality of the company is not only their strong market position, but also their continuous ambition to remain at the forefront of developments in the travel and tourism industry, with 15.8% of revenue being spent on research and development in 2016.

This includes the development of new hotel booking systems which Amadeus, in partnership with InterContinental Hotels Group, aim to start implementing by the end of 2017.

Amadeus is very profitable with an average net profit margin of 18% and an average return on equity of 33% per year over the last five years. The company has strong cash flow and is reasonably priced considering intrinsic valuations. The company has an experienced, diverse and proven management team with the chief executive, Luis Maroto, being in Amadeus’s service for 18 years (the last six as CEO). The company is financially healthy and is well positioned globally to benefit from the growing travel and tourism industry.

Amadeus has been in our international portfolio for a while and I believe it still has excellent prospects as a long term investment.

Franschhoek Tatler

18

May 2017

Book Review

Charlotte van Zyl

The Course of Love

Q & A with Herman Uys, new owner of Franschhoek Electric What attracted you to a business in Franschhoek?

Firstly the challenge. My perception was that Franschhoek Electric was a business in need of leadership, and secondly the challenge of making a significant contribution to the staff, the community and the bottom line.

Secondly the beauty of the Franschhoek Valley: the mountains, the weather and the ease of getting away over the pass and finding space, quietness and freedom.

Time and time again you find another beautiful residence/home/farm that is another man’s dream. It is also just great to work in Franschhoek with all its challenges.

What have you changed at the business?

Ownership, sorting out problems, customer relationships, managing lead time for service, housekeeping, motivating staff … It is an on-going process of improvement. We have to get it right.

What were you doing professionally before you acquired Franschhoek Electric?

Started a Business focussing on the development of human potential utilising outdoor education and experiential learning methodologies.

Consultation work utilising the same technology and combining it with the Theory of Constraints methodologies.

University Pretoria, worked with the ENACTUS organisation on campus serving and developing the Leadership Programme.

What is your history concerning qualifications and training?

BSc Degree and Chairman of Exploratio, the hiking and mountaineering club on campus. This motivated me and gave me the experience to understand the potential and power of Adventure-based Experiential Learning. Therefore the business in using the abovementioned technologies.

Travelling abroad – attended workshops, visited operators, learnt and brought the technology back to South Africa; applying it here. It includes Outdoor Education Research Conference, International Consortium for Experiential Learning, The Feuerstein Institution for the development of learning potential.

You have turned around a number of businesses, which was the most challenging and why?

I was quite fortunate to work with a number of businesses in the rail industry applying the above mentioned methodologies to improve productivity.

The bottom-line is that if you combine the right methods with the right leadership, change of behaviour is not that difficult.

How do you change people from being disinterested to being aspirational and effective?

(1) Give them hope. (2) Develop their inner selves.

(3) Use positive reinforcement until they become independent of you.

Your business is dependent on electricity. How do you feel about renewable energy?

Currently we depend on electricity. It makes life comfortable, but we have only one planet which we are destroying at an accelerated rate. There are too many people on earth and the population is growing much faster than expected. We are going to run out of resources, so it is actually much too late to wakeup now, but renewables are still too expensive and infrastructure is insufficient. Fortunately awareness is increasing. LED technology is developing at a rapid rate and is in demand. The next step will be renewable energy and the prices will come down. Just look at the value of the Tesla Company and electric car technology.

You and your wife Betsie both have motorbikes.

What sort of riding do you do?

Safe riding, dirt roads, less-travelled paths, uncomplicated environments, peace and space.

What is the best thing about Franschhoek that you have discovered?

That we can walk in the streets at night without feeling threatened; have a party and walk home. (Still be streetwise.)

What is the most interesting or favourite book you have read?

Too many to name. Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond, Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive by Jared Diamond - But we have a choice.

They went to see a queen

The People of the Valley went to see the Queen of the Desert at the end of March. It was a lovely night out for the Franschhoek Culture Vultures who had been looking forward to Priscilla Queen of the Desert for months. They booked their seats, reserved a Davids Transport bus, made sure they had Leopard’s Leap MCC and wine for the evening and ordered two baskets of eats.

Manzel picked up the group of nineteen in the village and dropped them off in front of Artscape in plenty of time. Everyone was delighted by the show and marvelled at not just the talented performers, but also the wonderful props and outrageous costumes.

They came away with slightly adjusted views on singing an Elvis song to children and the comedic value of ping pong balls. Comparisons were made to the movie which many had seen twenty years before and in which they fondly remembered Terence Stamp as Bernadette.

The group was home safe and sound by midnight, keen to know when the next outing would be. If you

GOING IN STYLE 26 April 2017

would like information on Culture Vulture outings, please send your name, email address and cell phone number to news@franschhoektatler.co.za.

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY 5 May 2017

KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE SWORD 12 May 2017

By Alain de Botton. Publ: Penguin. 222 pages.

This book is as delightful as it is insightful. After finishing it, my first thought was: “Which married child should I give this to?” and then I thought “Which couple with a new baby should I give it to?” And then I caught myself thinking “Should I have underlined that passage on page 108, or maybe highlighted that line on page 192?”

After his many famous books like “Religion for Atheists” and “The Architecture of Happiness”, Alain de Botton has returned to fiction. However, the title of this story about the ups and downs of a married life contains a pun that shows that, in this case, de Botton is combining his creative and his didactic side.

“The Course of Love” is both a narrative about the twists and turns that make up the course of the love between a young married couple as well as a “Course IN Love” with many perceptive psychological insights inserted in italics throughout the narrative.

One could, of course, simply skip the insights and follow the life of Rabih Khan, an architect from Beirut, and Kirsten McClelland, a surveyor from Scotland. This is perfectly possible because it is a good story. The details of their courtship are affectionately but realistically depicted. De Botton has a sharp analytic eye for the different stages of a marriage. First, the romantic desire for complete happiness that we find in a courtship and the early married years. Then come the inevitable tensions that arise when a couple has two demanding jobs, followed by the unexpected stress of having to care for two babies. After that we witness the anguish that Rabih feels when he is tempted into an extramarital affair through the pressure of everyday life.

Having read the story and followed the course of love, the reader could go back and pick up the commentary - which would then read a little like “Marriage for Dummies” or “Seven Steps to a Successful Marriage.”

My advice is to read both the fiction and the

commentary as the story develops. To isolate the didactic bits reduces the book to yet another of the millions of “how to” books. To engage with the commentary immediately after having read about a traumatic event in the characters’ lives gives the reader a sympathetic insight into human behavior. And, incidentally, it shows how life deviates from the romantic expectations that all married couples have. For instance, when Kirsten has had her first baby and both young parents are driven to distraction by the demands of the child, de Botton says “Children teach us that love is, in its purest form, a kind of service. We are used to loving others in return for what they can do for us, for their capacity to entertain, charm or sooth us. Yet babies can do precisely nothing.”

Because we have seen the actual mistakes Rabih and Kirsten made and how they have found solutions, the advice of the commentary makes good sense. Because we are helped to identify with the obstacles to happiness of the two individuals, de Botton provides a sort of slow-motion analysis and counseling as the problems occur. Yet we never feel that he is manipulating Rabih and Kirsten to prove how clever he is. They go on with their messy lives and manage to adjust, sidestep or ignore the all too familiar problems as they arise.

“The Course of Love” is not at all like Sally Andrew’s bestselling “Recipes for Love and Murder,” yet both share an interest in the things that make love complicated, and the things that can solve its problems – whether it is a good bobotie or insights in Attachment Theory.

Mushroom forage at Boschendal with Justin Williams

Boschendal Estate has a variety of microclimate areas which are perfect for the growth of wild mushrooms. You are invited to spend a day, part of which is foraging for wild mushrooms with Justin Williams. Since boyhood Justin has been a keen forager and given his love for wild mushrooms, his has become a well-known name in Cape Town, and he is frequently consulted on matters mushroom.

His passion is infectious and he is approachable and easy-natured. This day promises to be a huge fun learning experience.

Justin will give a short educational talk about mushroom identification and foraging. Then it’s off to the woods, the poplar groves and the oak plantations to search for the perfect porcini and others.

To end off the hunt, Boschendal’s Executive Chef Christiaan Campbell, will provide a three-course meal based on the freshest ingredients from The Werf Garden and other local products.

You will need to bring a basket with you in which to

ALIEN: COVENANT 19 May 2017

take away your mushrooms and some of the fabulous products from The Farm Shop and Deli.

Date: 6 May; Time: 10h00; Cost: R600.00 per person includes the forage, a bottle of water and the threecourse lunch reservations@boschendal.co.za | 021 870 4274

OZZY 19 May 2017

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES 26 May 2017

May 2017

Music Alchemy James Stewart

So what do you do for a living?

“So what do you do for a living?” That question.

The one casually following the enquiry into your schooling. Until around four years ago I’d uneasily answer the former with whatever project I was busy with at the time. ‘I write music for film and television’ or ‘I’m finalising a licensing deal for an artist I work with.’ Truthful? Yes. Cryptic and mysterious? Check.

What I ‘do’ masquerading (as one comes to accept in these situations) as what I ‘am’.

Grandstanding, basically.

Music. Not a sensible career choice. Especially once I realised I had fallen into it and simply started swimming. Basically, a million years ago my sister left the band to go and study and we were stuck for a singer. I was somewhat reluctantly promoted. I was terrified but I loved it from the start and we started getting some attention on the local circuit. A man who became a life-long friend and business partner was a judge at a talent competition, the second prize of which was two days in a studio. We fired off an album’s worth of songs, sent it to local radio and we were on our way. The decision to sing other people’s songs or write my own had led me to become a

Franschhoek Tatler songwriter... and a band manager and a booking agent.

I galloped ahead being just bright enough to put a few basics together: owning my own copyrights being the central theme. Build a studio and sweat every hour in it to provide services and create copyrights.

Network them. Chase them. Fight for them and carve out a career. Ironically all ‘this business’ was leading me further astray from its genesis. That, before anything else I’m simply a guy who tripped into the music business by way of a series of somehow connected accidents, not design.

A re-wiring of sorts occurred driving home from a regular gig at The Alma Café in Rosebank – a converted corner café which still sells loose cigarettes and Wilson’s toffees during the day and at night morphs into a music mecca. Like the crockery and cutlery, the chairs don’t match. In fact the décor and patrons are as eclectic as the artists who perform there. Knitted and crocheted goods on sale hang behind the counter while fifty pairs of eyes and ears absorb every note and nuance in raptured silence and then disappear contented into the night. I pack my gear into the car and make my way in silence on the N1 back to Franschhoek with a full heart and enough money in my pocket for a decent trip to the grocery store. On the one hand this is not career income. On the other THIS is why I do what I do.

Now that question is answered with ‘I’m a singer.

And I do some other stuff.’

More on connecting with the world from Franschhoek next month.

Shiraz & Charcuterie at Anthonij Rupert 27 May 2017

Don’t miss out on sampling some of SA’s finest Shiraz wines at this year’s Shiraz & Charcuterie at Anthonij Rupert Wyne on Saturday, 27 May (12h00 – 17h00). A selection of delicious charcuterie accompanying the Shiraz means the event is guaranteed to be a culinary match made in heaven.

This is the ideal opportunity to taste Anthonij Rupert Wyne’s range of Shiraz wines, which include the Anthonij Rupert Syrah, the Cape of Good Hope Riebeeksrivier Shiraz and Protea Shiraz. The Protea Shiraz adds that extra allure with its eye catching indigenous flora inspired bottle – ready for upcycling! Joining these wines will be a selection of our country’s finest Syrahs paired with tasty charcuterie and other delicious artisanal fare.

Participating producers, amongst others, include Rust en Vrede, Waterford, Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, Hartenberg Wine Estate, Simonsig and Thelema.

Ideally suited to the colder months, savour your glass of Shiraz with one of the hearty winter-inspired dishes on offer. Drawing inspiration from the Rhône Valley, food choices include a traditional French Onion Soup, and homemade Sauçisson served with braised Cannellini Beans. The popular Olive Bar with a selection of the finest artisanal olives to choose from adds that extra touch to a classic food and wine pairing taste sensation.

Autumn Music Weekend here again!

play Beethoven and Brahms on During the weekend of 19 Sunday, 21 May at 12h15. Made – 21 May those in and around up of Junnan Sun (clarinet), Franschhoek will have the chance Aristide du Plessis (cello) and to indulge in a series of concerts Duigan, the Trio Frontier will in the NG Church and Café Bon play Beethoven’s youthful Trio Bon at La Petite Dauphine. in B-flat Op. 11, contrasted Presented by Christopher Duigan's with the Brahms Trio Op. 114, Music Revival, the Autumn Music one of the composers’ most Weekend holds a unique place in the beautiful ‘twilight’ works. local music landscape with Duigan Tickets for all the NG Church active as performer and producer. concerts are R100 with booking This dual role has won the festival a at www.webtickets.co.za Tickets loyal following over the past few years. can also be bought at the door.

“We strive to include a range Café Bon Bon at La Petite of musical styles and genres in Catherine Stephenson will be performing with guitarist, James Dauphine will host the the concerts but always with Grace, and flautist, Bridget Renniecandlelight soiree, Songs My the emphasis on happy working Salonen, in ‘Two Flutes and a Guitar’ Mother Taught Me, at 18h30 for relationships; where the friendship at the NG Church.

19h00 on Saturday, 20 May. off the stage leads to great In this concert, Duigan enthusiasm, brought together plays a selection of light classics that evoke a bygone by mutual love of music, onstage,” says Duigan, a world of nostalgia, often associated with salon music concert pianist, based in Pietermaritzburg. and evenings at the family piano. Included in the In the first concert, The French Piano, which takes programme are Brahms’s Waltz in A-flat, Dvorak's place in the NG Church at 19h00 on Friday, 19 May, Humoresque, Rubenstein's Melody in F and The Duigan plays a classical recital of French music by Maiden's Prayer.

Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel and Jean-Phillippe Tickets are R600, which includes a three-course Rameau with compositions drawing inspiration from meal. To book contact Café Bon Bon at La Petite the East, the exotic underworld and reflections of the Dauphine at 021 876 3936. magical world that surrounds us.

Also at Café Bon Bon at La Petite Dauphine is the At 11h00 on Saturday, 20 May, again in the NG Bon Bon Finale at 12h30 for 13h00 on Sunday, 21 May. Church, is Two Flutes and Guitar, in which the Duo In this concert Sun (clarinet), Du Plessis (cello) and Zomari - Bridget Rennie-Salonen (flute) and guitarist Duigan (piano) offer a thrilling afternoon of music by James Grace - are joined by Catherine Stephenson JS Bach, Saint-Saëns, Bella-Kovacs, Piazzolla and the (flute) in a programme of music ranging from JS evergreen The Swan from Carnival of the Animals.

Bach to music with a strong Latin-American flavour.

Tickets are R500, which includes a three-course The concert will include performances of Maximo meal. To book contact Café Bon Bon at La Petite Diego-Pujol’s Suite Buenos Aires and Piazzolla’s Dauphine at 021 876 3936.

Histoire du Tango.

The final concert in the NG Church is Trio Frontier www.franschhoekclassic.co.za

Frans Mulder’s ‘Elgin Marbles’ IS Art Gallery until 28 May 2017

Pre-booking is essential as tickets are limited. Your tickets, which cost R220 per person, include entry as well as tastings of the wines on show. Book directly via www.webtickets.co.za.

For more information contact the event organisers, DnA Event Management on info@ dnaevents.co.za or 084 207 3820.

Tracey’s Hoedown for charity Saturday, 13 May

Join friends and neighbours for a barn dance on beautiful Burgundy Bourgogne Farm. This event will raise funds for the restoration of Franschhoek High School’s Centenary Library and repurposing it as the Franschhoek Theatre for screening movies, housing the school archives and hosting community events.

Tracey’s Hoedown takes place at Burgundy Bourgogne Farm on Saturday, 13 May, at 19h00.

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Local band Uncorked will entertain. Tickets at R500 per person include a glass of bubbly on arrival, food and an evening of music and dancing.

Additional wine for sale. Dress country. Bookings with Theresa or Renecia at 021 876 4623 or email tkretail@saol.com.

Support this deserving school and help continue the tradition of movie screening in the village.

South African artist Frans Mulder is rooted in his small town, Eastern Cape origins.

After attaining his Diploma in Fine Arts at the Port Elizabeth Technicon in 1975 his career has spanned various disciplines, including architecture, design and tourism.

Frans re-immersed himself in art world in 2004, relocating back to the Eastern Cape where he set up and runs a farm studio.

The studio’s close proximity to many game reserves fostered an One of Frans Mulder’s ‘Elgin Marbles’ works immense love for the wildlife 1812 the 7th Earl of Elgin obtained permission from these nurtured. Some of his most notable works represent subject matter from the South African the Ottoman ruler to systematically remove the bush, particularly its endangered animals such as the marbles. Eventually they became the property of the wild dog and the white rhinoceros.

British Museum.

Frans uses a process of applying imagery primarily Frans uses the motives of prancing wild horses in charcoal and erasing parts thereof only to re-apply and classical figures of men – as are represented in the medium and erase it again – repeating the process the Elgin Marbles themselves – to create an air of multiple times. In this way he creates deep, enigmatic mystique. His works reflect both of these motives dreamscapes unlike any other. as being fragmented or broken, appearing in He has held many solo and group exhibitions both pieces – either arms, hooved legs or busts. This is locally and abroad. A particularly notable group representative of the damage sustained by the original exhibition was that of the Artists for Conservation Elgin Marbles, whether through wars or by Elgin’s held in Vancouver, Canada in 2012 and again in 2014. unsympathetic removal.

In this exhibition Frans pays homage to the always Whereas history has not been kind to the Elgin Marbles, enticing and controversial Elgin Marbles or ‘Parthenon Frans seeks to show his respect and pay homage to the Marbles’. The original pieces were commissioned for marbles through the upliftment thereof in his own work the Parthenon and other buildings on the Acropolis – creating something contemporarily beautiful from a of Athens and crafted by Phidas and his assistants troubled past, giving a new life to its darkness. from 447 – 438 BC. During the period of 1801 to gallery@isart.co.za | 021 876 2071

Franschhoek Tatler

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Proin in sapien Fusce urna

May 2017

Consectetuer in In consectetuer Proin in sapien. Proin in sapien.

Fusce urna magna neque.

Fusce urna magna neque egeuat vitae lorem ipsum dolor urna magna.

cafe bon bon, la petite dauphine CANDLE LIGHT SOIRÉE : SONGS MY MOTHER TAUGHT ME Saturday 20 May 6:30 for 7:00 pm Pianist Christopher Duigan turns his hand to a beautiful selection of light classics that evokes a bygone world of nostalgia.

Café Bon Bon at La Petite Dauphine 021 876 3936 R600 includes a three-course meal.

The Autumn Music Weekend coincides with the Franschhoek Literary Festival

cafe bon bon, la petite dauphine BON BON FINALE : Trio Frontier Sunday 21 May 12:30 for 1:00 pm Junnan Sun (clarinet), Aristide du Plessis (cello) and Christopher Duigan (piano) offer a thrilling afternoon of music for a spirited Þnale.

Café Bon Bon at La Petite Dauphine 021 876 3936 R500 includes a three-course meal.

The Autumn Music Weekend coincides with the Franschhoek Literary Festival

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May 2017

May Calendar 4 May

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Food and Wine experience with Viognier Venue: La Petite Ferme. Time: 18h30. Cost: R750 pp.

Booking: pr@lapetiteferme.co.za or 021 876 3016

12 May

Yoga and Wellness retreat Venue: Boschendal. Time: 14h00 Cost: R4740 per person per room. Bookings: 021 870 4500 or foh@ boschendal.co.za 5

13 May

3 Tracey’s Hoedown, fundraiser with Uncorked for school and multipurpose theatre.

Venue: Bourgogne Burgundy Farm. Time: 4 19h00.

Cost: R500 pp. Bookings: 021 876 4623 or email tkretail@saol.com 19, 20, 21 May

Easy

Franschhoek Literary Festival Venues: Various in village. Time: from 10h00. Cost: R70 pp for most events. Booking: www.webtickets .co.za 4

19 May

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The French Piano with Christopher Duigan Venue: DR Church. Time: 19h00. ost: R70 pp.

Tickets: www.webtickets.co.za or at the door

20 May

7

Two Flutes and a Piano Venue: DR Church. Time: 11h00. Cost: R70 pp.

Tickets: www.webtickets.co.za or at the door

20 May

8

3

Candlelight Soiree, Songs my Mother taught Me Venue: Café BonBon, Time: 18h30 for 19h00. Cost: R600 pp includes dinner. Booking: 021 876 3936 5

21 May

2

Trio Frontier plays Beethoven and Brahms Venue: DR Church. Time: 12h15. Cost: R70 pp.

Tickets: www.webtickets or at the door

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Bon 3 Bon Finale 7 5 Venue: Café Bon Bon. Time: 12h30 for 13h00. Cost: R500 pp includes lunch. Booking: 021 876 3936

2 1 23 May

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SPCA Golf Day Venue: Pearl Valley. Details: Joan-Anne Harris, 082 442 6545 or golf@southernstroll.com

7 5 3 2 26 May

Korreltjie 4 Kantel 9with Luna Paige, Nick 3 Turner & Jamie Jupiter, ACVV fundraiser Venue: Franschhoek Cellar. Time: 19h00 for 20h00.

1 8 Cost:7R200 pp. Bookings: www.webtickets.co.za

6Tuesdays

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Alcoholics Anonymous Contact 021 433 2709 or 073 125 0188 (Jeffrey)

Fridays

Food and Wine Tastings Venue: La Motte Tasting Room. Time: 10h00 to 11h00. Cost:5R1309pp. Bookings: tasting@la-motte. co.za or 021 876 8820

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Franschhoek Tatler

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Franschhoek Village Market 8Breads, 7 olives, ginger beer,3 pastries, 9 plants, seedlings, breakfasts, coffee, crafts and more. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church Grounds. Time: 09h00 – 14h00 2 Parkrun 4 6 8 Venue: Rickety Bridge, Time: 08h00, Cost: Free, Register: 2 www.parkrun.co.za 8

Sundays 5 Class with Danielle 2 Rittel1 Yoga

5 Burrows, 021 876 4 2632.

09h30. Minister: Dr Shaun All visitors most welcome Church: Sunday 5Shofar Christian 7 4 8Services: 09h00 English at 7 Lambrechts St 18h00 Afrikaans at Franschhoek Rugby Klub, Groendal. Ps Theuns 3 All welcome!

Pauw 021 876 3348.

Roman Catholic Church: Mass every 2nd Saturday of the6 month 1 8 at the Methodist 2 9Church, Bagatelle Rd, Fhk. 073 488 6816 Church: Anglican Communion Service 9Trinity10h00.

7 Prayers Sundays Weekday Communion with Very easy Wednesdays 10h00. All services at L’Ermitage Chapel. Fr Gavin 9 Mitchell 2 (083 799 0726) 5 4 Anglican 6 9 Church 5 2Groot 1 3Drakenstein.

7 8 St George’s Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday 1 54 7 6 3 89 4 2School 9 10h00. Rector Fr Joe Humbles – 073 560 3566 Franschhoek 8 3 Methodist 2 4 Church: 7 9 Sunday 1 5service 6

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Venue: The Artemis Barn. Time: 08h00 to 09h00.

7Cost: R80 pp 2 1 6Church1Services

5 909h30. Geen NG Kerk Franschhoek: Sondagdienste aanddiens meer nie. Ds Peet Bester. 021 876 2431.

Uniting 6 7Reformed Church: 4 Sunday service:

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c ⃝2005-2017 http://www.PrintSudoku.com Jyotish Vedic Astrology Robert Rittel

Aries, 21 March – 19 April: Mars the ruling planet of this asterism is transiting through Sagittarius, the mutable fire sign, which likes to establish its righteousness. Reasoning is like a ladder; by this ladder one can rise, or from this ladder one may fall.

It is natural that heavenly reason does not agree with earthly reason.

Taurus, 20 April – 20 May: Venus has moved into this constellation and is at home. Here the sensuous attraction of nature becomes a need and the virtue of duty is in the pleasure of doing it. All learning becomes pale once divine knowledge begins to shine, for wisdom is the cream of intelligence.

Gemini, 21 May – 20 June: The wicked world does not allow one’s fine feelings to be cherished.

Mercury is a logical and rational thinker and creates superficiality, which has nothing to do with life.

Sensations are the shadows of exaltations. Every action that defeats its own object is wrong.

Cancer, 21 June – 22 July: Righteousness is nothing but a natural outcome of right thinking, and the realization of the truth is the greatest luxury. Facts are the illusion of the truth. If your heart is large enough there is nothing it will not accommodate. As the moon changes every day, you can change your mind.

Leo, 23 July – 22 August: With the Sun in Taurus, Leos like to spoil themselves. Try to look upon life not only from your point of view but also from the point of view of another. You will lose nothing, but on the contrary, it widens the horizon of your view. By creating happiness one fulfills one’s life’s purpose.

Virgo, 23 August – 22 September: It is not the heart of earth in which to confide, for it brings forth

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Library Huguenot Memorial Museum Magic Sudoku Post Office

Welfare (ACVV) SPCA 4 1 5 3

021 808 8406 021 876 2532 021 876 2342 021 876 2670 6 0212876 4808 8

7 9 2 School 8 9 4 6 1 3 0217874 8100 5 Bridge House Franschhoek High School 021 876 2079 6 7School 3 5 2 8 9 0211876 2448 4 Groendal Primary Groendal Secondary School 021 876 2211 7 1 9 4 2 8 6 5 0213876 2360 Wes-Eind Primary School Dalubuhle 7 Primary School 9 5 3 0214876 3957 2 6 8 1 STORAGE Franschhoek 5 Storage 3 8 1 4 7 2 0219876 2174 6 TOURIST INFORMATION & SERVICES 6 2 7 9 4 1 0215876 3603 3 Info Office8 Winelands Experience 021 876 4042 9 GOODS 4 1 8 3 5 7 6 2 TRANSPORT Gerald Fourie 3 2 2940/082 4 8821 5234 5 7 6 1021 876 9 VETERINARY Huguenot Animal Clinic 021 876 4278 8Surgery (pm only) 021 876 2504 SCHOOLS

Franschhoek IT Services 082 356 0226 c Solutions http://www.PrintSudoku.com Solution of Sudoku #4243 Emergency 082 577 9900 Solid ⃝2005-2017 IT 084 015 8808 EMERGENCY NUMBERS Apple Tech Support (John) 081 361 7228 Stellenbosch Fire Dept. (Buildings on fire) 021 808 8888 ELECTRICAL Cape Winelands Distr.Muni. (Bush & veld fires) 021 887 4446 Franschhoek Electric 082 823 7119/021 876 3640

021 886 9244 Rensburg Electrical 021 876 2120/083 309 2923 Police 10111/021 876 8061 EXCAVATIONS Eskom 086 003 7566 Andrew Schmidt 021 876 4431/082 972 5755 Neighbourhood Watch 083 493 7778 Burger Excavations 072 3408518 Omnipage Farm Watch 021 852 3318 HEALTH & BEAUTY Plaaswag 021 876 2346 Franschhoek Pharmacy 021 876 2261 N1, N2 & R300 Emergency number: 021 946 1646 Franschhoek Health Club 021 876 3310

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Sport

Fhk Cycling Club Outrides Regular road rides on Saturday mornings from BP garage to Stellenbosch/Jonkers and back (75 kms) followed by coffees. Meet at 08h00 winter months, Hard 07h00 in summer. To check timings during shoulder 7seasons 2contact 7 Paul 3 Barkley 9Club 6083 302 4 9096 8 5 1 Franschhoek Tennis Social tennis 5 is1played4 at the 8 Franschhoek 2 3 Tennis 9 6Club7on Fridays, Sundays and Public Holidays from 08h30. For 6 8 contact 9 1Ross7078 278 5 4843.

2 4 3 more information

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Magic Sudoku ACCOUNTANTS 1 3 4 8 5 2 6 7 9 Tax Shop 021 876 2676 5 7 1 9 4 2 3 8 ATTORNEYS6 Susan Charlesworth2 2592/072 402 9469 9 8 7 021 6 876 5 876 1 2084 4 Snipelisky &2 Killian 083 25030943/021 BURGLAR ALARMS 7 8 3 9 2 1 4021 876 6 3308 5 Pepler Alarms CLUBS & ASSOCIATIONS 4 1 5 6 3 8 9 2 7 Boland Bridge Club 021 876 3031 3 1 Franschhoek9Tennis 2 Club6 5 4 7 3082 557 8 0278 1 Franschhoek Trust & RPA 021 876 3460 8 Club 4 2 3 7 9 1021 874 5 1906 6 Grt.5Drak Games Lions 021 876 3775 6 Lodge 1 (Chris) 4 8 5 7072 211 9 9991 2 Stellenbosch3 Masonic 6 Franschhoek Rotary Club 082 773 9217 7 Club9 2 1 6 8021 876 4 3179 3 Franschhoek5Probus COMPUTER SERVICES

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09h00 All welcome. Rev Nuno Vergueiro 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509.

New Apostolic Church: Le Roux Weg, Franschhoek.Sundays 09h00, Wednesdays 19h30.

Rector: Charles Leibrandt

Very hard

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all that is given to it in simple trust; it is the soul of the heavens which is trustworthy, for it assimilates all in its own being. To express an impulse gives relief, but to control it gives strength.

Libra, 23 September – 22 October: The one who is lost on the path of love is lost in wandering ideas; the one who has won on the battlefield of love has won it for all eternity. Venus easily creates illusions of security, established by the daily media to sell you some temporary happiness. To love is one thing, and to own it is another thing.

Scorpio, 23 October – 21 November: The wealth seeker has no regard for relatives. The pleasure seeker considers no honours or respect; the sorrowful has no comfort or sleep, the hungry distinguishes not between ripe and unripe. Do you pass through life?

Or is it life that passes through you?

Sagittarius, 22 November – 21 December: Retrograding Mars and Saturn in this sign will force you to rethink and rearrange and can destroy years of making an ideal in a moment. The one who covers his grief under a smile is sincere; the one who covers his laughter under grief is a hypocrite.

Capricorn, 22 December – 19 January: That retrograding Saturn will change the right which seems right at the moment, but at another moment the same may seem to be wrong. Therefore do not attempt to impose the right upon the one who does not see the right of it. When facts fall dead, truth comes to life.

Aquarius, 20 January – 18 February: The vibrations of consciousness are so subtle that they cannot be detected by any instrument, only consciousness can comprehend consciousness. It is the vibrations of its objective aspect that are present in all forms of creation. Consider all its potential in thoughts, feelings, will and imagination.

Pisces, 19 February - 20 March: Jupiter is in opposition with Neptune in Pisces; during this transit it is often difficult to keep the real and the ideal separated.

Usually it indicates a mental state in which you become wrapped up in all manner of abstract speculations or high ideals that are difficult to actualize.

HOUSE & GARDEN

Clock Repairs Lighting & Accessories Paarl Pool Services Ria Pools (Franschhoek)

4

DENTISTS Sudoku #4258 Dr Schalk du Plessis

028 840 1716 021 876 3640 021 872 0747/083 658 4944 021 876 2612/072 347 5355

Dr Rob Hammer

021 876 3070 021 876 2634 021 876 4622 021 871 1063 021 876 2474 021 876 2304

DOCTORS

Franschhoek Photolab PostNet

021 876 3921 021 876 3025

Dr Karin Eksteen Dr Shelley Hellig Dr Alexander Heywood Dr Hannes Van der Merwe

Marelise Bester

021 872 3530

Medicare EMR

Franschhoek Photolab

021 876 4741

INTERNET ACCESS OPTOMETRIST

PHOTOGRAPHIC PHYSIOTHERAPY

Claire Horn PLUMBERS

021 876 4234/082 582 1029

Franschhoek Plumbing

021 876 3759

Hospice

021 876 3085

PUBLIC SERVICES

EMERGENCY MEDICAL RESPONSE MUNICIPALITY

074 363 7744/021 876 4316

(Ward 1) Councillor Frazenburg (DA) (Ward 2) Councillor Petersen (DA) (Ward 3) Councillor Manuel (DA) (Ward 4) Councillor Johnson (DA) Municipality (Office Hours) Municipality (afternoon only) Municipality 24hr Service

021 808 8490 082 404 5055 074 686 2364 021 808 8019 021 808 8700 021 808 8890 021 808 8700

Franschhoek Tatler

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Smalls Smalls R30. Text only, maximum of 30 words Leave, with payment, at Franschhoek Pharmacy before 15th of preceding month

BOOK BINDING AND BOOK REPAIRS. Contact John 021 876 4129 or john@thearmchair explorer.co.za PROFESSIONAL POOL SERVICE REQUIRED? Keep it local! Get a quote. Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 PRIVATE WINE TOURS: Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek. Full Day 10am - 5pm, 4 farms @ R500 per person. Lunch and tastings for your own account. Half Day @ R250 per person. Call 073 125 0188 for bookings.

EXCESS BOOKS? Shelves creaking, moving house or just thinning out your collection? Contact John Hicks 021 876 4129 CHANGING TO A SALT WATER SYSTEM? Let us advise & quote for you!

Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 LOOKING FOR THAT SPECIAL BOOK and can’t find it? Call John at the Armchair Explorer, we will source it for you.

Contact John Hicks 021 876 4129 PHOTOBOOK DESIGNER, DIGITAL PHOTO ORGANISER: Do you need assistance organising your photos, as you want it done or designing that personalised photo book? Call Sharon 076 7096487/sharonhart@telkomsa.net

TO LET: Furnished gate house to let.

1 Naudé Street. Available 1 May 2017.

Professional or couple, R9000 p/m + elec. Call 083 348 1230 POOL PUMP PROBLEMS? Noise?

We quote and help you out! Call RiaPools: 072 347 5355 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 RE-FIBRE GLASS YOUR POOL in any colour you like. Call RiaPools for a quote: 072 347 5355 HOUSE SITTER: Janneman van der Linde. Versorg u troetels in u afwesigheid, asof u daar is. Hy stap die woewe, speel en borsel die katjies en voer almal by Trommel se dik verby. SMS of Whats App vir Janneman: 072 630 0253 Of bel hom op 082 694 5001 TO LET: Furnished gate house to let.

1 Naudé Street. Available 1 May 2017.

Professional or couple, R9000 p/m + elec. Call 083 348 1230 TURKEY HELP: Are you going to Istanbul, Turkey? Please can you help me?

Are you traveling to Istanbul? I need an item exchanged at a shop in Istiklal street.

If you could possibly help me please contact Elsa 083 458 9835 TO LET: Attractive mountain cottage.

2-en suite bedrooms, fully furnished and equipped. Available 1st June. Minimum

6-month lease. 6 km from village on paved road. Phone: 063 017 9125 or 021 876 3760 COTTAGE WANTED: Small cottage or similar wanted for myself and medium-size companion dog. Either in Franschhoek area or surrounds between Paarl and here or Stellenbosch and here.

Have some flexibility on start date.

Budget around R6000. larry.clsn@gmail. com 083 965 4391 ASSISTANCE OFFERED: I am a caring, friendly, older woman who can assist you in your house, shop or office.

I can run errands of drive you around.

Available afternoons, evenings or weekends. 083 270 9555 APPLE TECH SUPPORT: For iPhone, iPad or Mac setup, training or support services, call John on 081 361 7228 PRIVATE TUTORING: Scholastic help, Grades R-9. I completed NILD, an American qualification for assessment & addressing of learning difficulties, in South Africa known as Brain Dynamics.

Prior experience. Did homeschooling for 11 years. Contact Wilma 078 475 2710 wilmabotha1962@gmail.com LOOKING FOR A VENUE?: Come and experience all that The Conservatory, Franschhoek, has to offer at their OPEN DAY on 14 & 15 JUNE 2017. Enjoy the beauty of this hidden gem and discuss your special occasion with our friendly function

FRANSCHHOEK’S

FOR BUILDING • GARDENING • RENOVATING SITUATED BEHIND BP GARAGE • WE SPECIALISE IN: TOOL & EQUIPMENT HIRE Brush Cutters, Lawn Mowers, Chain Saws, Concrete Mixers, Drills, Compressors, Pumps, Jackhammers SERVICING & REPAIR Light Industrial Equipment RUBBLE & REFUSE REMOVAL DELIVERIES LIGHT DOMESTIC MOVES PORTABLE LOOS CLEANING of businesses and other premises 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.

always at your service

072 378 1916 or 021 876 4123 Email: onhireo@gmail.com

May 2017 co-ordinator as well as the industries finest vendors. Address: Happy Valley Road, Franschhoek 071 3659612 Email:Joanne@theconservatory.co.za LOOKING FOR A POSITION AS GENERAL WORKER: 29 year old male from Groendal, Elvis Jozi. 064 3329084 HOMESITTING / CHILD CARE / PET SITTING / GENERAL ASSISTANCE: Responsible, trustworthy, mature lady. Contact Wilma 078 4752710 wilmabotha1962@gmail.com SINGLE BED FLAT: Comfortable independent, attached to main house, to let in Cabriere St – R5500/Month Excl Bills (Gas – Elec) 079 768 6378 mcnmike@hotmail.com PET-SITTER / HOUSE-SITTER / 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 & belongings. Franschhoek only. Contact Sue at 083 2709555.

DOMESTIC WORKER/HOUSE KEEPER: 30 year-old lady, Melody Nylkadzino. Contact 061 059 6727.

PART-TIME HOUSE CLEANER POSITION REQUIRED: For Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Call Elizabeth Gondwe at 084 314 8696 and for reference call 083 581 9686

AN ENERGETIC, MATURE CARER REQUIRED for our adult son, to work week days, mornings only.

Applicant must have endless patience, speak good English and have a sense of humour. Tel. 021 8764304 GARDENER / HOUSEHOLD WORKER / GENERAL WORKER: 40 year-old, physically fit male, married, with 3 kids and with sober habits. Hard worker. Prior experience. Contact Alick Kumwenda 084 071 6525 TRUSTWORTHY, MATURE 26-year old female looking for a house keeping/ baby sitting/domestic/general work. I am intelligent and work very hard.

SMALL FARM COTTAGE WANTED: I am working permanently in Franschhoek and am looking for a small cottage or similar for myself and my companion (medium sized dog), in or around the Franschhoek area from June or July (long term). Contact Larry @ 0839654391

May 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

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Email: floormasterstell@gmail.com

+27 (0)21 876 3640 13 fabriek street herman@franschhoekelectric.co.za www.franschhoekelectric.co.za

074 313 7829

Franschhoek Tatler

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May 2017

The Oaks launched at Val De Vie

Vanderbilt Construction, a joint venture between established and respected Devmark Property Group and Swieg Group, has launched The Oaks at the award-winning Val de Vie estate.

The Oaks is a portfolio of four tastefully designed floor plans by A3D Architects, eliminating the need to start the design process from scratch, saving both time and money.

Says Hein Ehlers, director of Vanderbilt Construction: “All four designs are exceptional and allow for customisation to ensure that your requirements are met and the end product is perfectly suited to your needs and expectations. Your dream home can become a reality in Val de Vie’s Valley of Life – all you need to do is select your plot and one of the sensibly designed floor plans.”

Jan-Hendrik Swiegers, director of Vanderbilt Construction, adds that Vanderbilt Construction was founded on the principle of creating quality upmarket residential properties without compromise, and is establishing itself as the leader in this field. “With the right balance of experience, we pride ourselves on innovation, performance and trust. Successful projects require a high level of communication between homeowners, architects and craftsmen to deliver a faultless product within time and budget constraints. The Oaks will be no exception!”

With projects such as Fairhaven in Somerset West and Heerenzicht Estate in Durbanville under their belt, the company has concluded an agreement with Val de Vie to construct the houses in the soon to be launched retirement village on the estate.

Renier Swart, Sales Director and shareholder at Val de Vie, says that they did some research among their home owners and found a need to also

develop a retirement offering. “We’re excited about our association with Vanderbilt Construction. We share the same values and will set the industry standard in the construction of luxury residential houses as well as a retirement offering. They bring a wealth of experience in this specific sector to the venture.”

Ehlers continues: “With our background in retirement villages, we look forward to working closely with Val de Vie to also offer a world-class retirement option at the Val de Vie estate.”

Swart concludes that the estate has a variety of offerings.

“We’re about more than just polo, golf and 42km of trails.

Val de Vie is all about safety, social wellbeing and a stable financial return, so it will be a perfect fit.”

Furthermore, the acquisition of Pearl Valley within the larger Val de Vie family and amongst its other diverse offerings, which includes access to the Pearl Valley Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, completes the vision of providing the ultimate in secure, luxury living.

Val de Vie The Oaks offer spectacular views of

Downsizing as a lifestyle choice rather than economic necessity

During an economic decline, downsizing becomes more common when home owners find themselves increasingly cash-strapped and debt-ridden, but this is only one reason motivating South Africans to move to smaller homes.

Sandy Geffen, Executive Director of Sotheby's International Realty South Africa, says downsizing can also free up a considerable amount of money each month that can be put to good use, such as boosting your retirement fund, decreasing debt or saving for an overseas family holiday.

“Two other reasons commonly cited by people selling larger homes are lifestyle and security.

Compact homes generally require less maintenance, which means home owners can get out and enjoy life rather than spending weekends mowing the lawn and attending to a seemingly endless list of basic maintenance. And as the smaller properties are usually situated in gated communities or estates, they offer a greater level of security.”

According to a report by specialist property research company Lightstone, one in 10 recent residential property purchases in South Africa have been in gated communities, and despite the fact that the rate of development nationally had slowed, demand had not.

“Lightstone’s research shows that only about a tenth of the properties in this sector fall into the luxury category,” says Geffen. “The vast majority are the sort of compact homes that specifically cater to this movement in lifestyle demand – people wanting safer, smaller and easier to maintain homes.”

Older couples who have raised their families also often down size. “They want to have flexibility to travel, be with their grown up children, migrate to retirement homes at the coast or just have more time and money to do the things they enjoy like playing golf.”

Another common reason for downsizing is

convenience. “Buyers often want to move closer to major metropolitan centres for the convenience of being nearer to work, schools and amenities and cut down on commuting time, and in many instances are forced to downsize due to increased property pricing in certain areas.

“And, although it’s certainly not always the cheaper option, people place a high premium on the peace of mind afforded by living in a secure, access controlled complex or building rather than in a house with large grounds.”

According to a recent report released by FNB Property Economist John Loos, the overall percentage of South Africans citing “Downscaling with Life Stage” as a reason for selling, rose substantially from 13% in 2008 to 27% in 2016.

Loos says: “Selling to downscale due to life stage refers most often to home owners whose children have left home, or they are merely becoming too old to maintain a larger home, and so the decide to downscale to a smaller or cheaper home. These people are typically in the older echelons of the home owner market, and have now become a strong driver of repeat home buyer demand as they downscale.”

But whatever the reason for downsizing may be, it’s never an easy task and it takes considerable forethought and planning to minimise the stress of transplanting one’s life and worldly goods into a smaller space.

Geffen advises: “If you think that there is even a possibility of downsizing in the near future, start the process slowly by gradually getting rid of things that you haven’t used in years and researching property options in areas you like, as well as the potential moving costs.

According to Geffen, there are certain actions to help one navigate the ordeal with less stress, but it involves planning ahead and not leaving everything until the last minute.

Paarl Rock, Simonsberg and the Franschhoek Mountains. The bistro-style Polo Club Restaurant overlooking the polo grounds is ideal for enjoying delicious cuisine or spectating polo tournaments.

The fully-equipped gym and lifestyle centre including tennis and squash courts and heated indoor pool (host to the Ryk Neethling Swimming School) will ensure you stay fit.

Plots range between 675m² and 3 000m² and house sizes start at 320m2. Superior finishes such as Hansgrohe taps, gas hobs and electric ovens, heat

pump geysers, Daikin air conditioners, underfloor heating, and more are included, with prices starting at R6 251 000 all inclusive.

Among its accolades Val de View counts recently being named South Africa’s top estate by New World Wealth and receiving the award for the Best Single Unit Residential Development in Africa at the 2016 International Property Awards. It also received an International Property Award for the Safest Home in Africa in 2014. property@valdevie.co.za | 021 863 6105

Start thinning out your belongings at least three months before the move.

Set aside some time each day each day if possible and methodically work your way through the house. Work with three boxes labelled: keep, sell and donate. Be ruthless, especially with items you haven’t used for a number of years – you’re unlikely to use them in the future.

Use floor plans to prearrange your furniture before the move. This is a useful reality check and will also help to make any difficult decisions about what to keep and discard. If there is a choice between two items, always opt for comfort unless it’s a valuable family heirloom.

Be creative. While it’s impossible to recreate your larger old home in the new, smaller space, familiar elements can be incorporated or transplanted; a favourite chandelier can be moved across and builtin features like cupboards can be installed in similar colours, materials and design. Curtains can easily be altered so if you love your old floral drops then have them adjusted to fit your new space – it will save money and afford comforting familiarity.

Go digital. Memorabilia like photograph albums can take up considerable space, so if you can’t bear to part with them digitize the photos, which can then be stored on a computer or external hard drive. There are several smartphone apps available or you can simply

take your albums in to a photographic shop. Favourite photos can then also be blown up and framed to hang on the walls in the new home.

Spoil yourself. Although downsizing is a time to declutter and reduce one’s possessions, it’s also a great time to invest in new, high quality bedding and bath towels. They may be small luxuries, but few things make one feel as comfortable and snug as fluffy bath towels and crisp new sheets.

Geffen concludes: “No matter how welcome the move may be, it’s almost impossible to not experience a sense of loss and nostalgia, especially when sorting through one’s treasured possessions collected over many years, so it’s important to remember that the move is a fresh start rather than a sad goodbye.” www.sothebysrealty.co.za

May 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

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Franschhoek Tatler

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May 2017

Pearl Valley at Val de Vie Estate La Vue II at Val de Vie Estate Boschenmeer Golf & Country Estate

La Vue II at Val de Vie

From R 1 895 000

Web Ref: 1907348

Sought after La Vue II stands selling out fast. Situated adjacent to Pearl Valley nature stands with views over Simonsberg and Paarl Mountain. This magnificent approximately 900 hectare estate incorporates both a tranquil and secure country residential estate and an award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Ranked the Top Residential Estate in South Africa 2015 & 2016. Stand sizes range from 700m² to 1 570m².

Prices from R1 895 000.

Contact: Lindie Gaigher 082 718 7043 or Jacques Nortjè 082 084 0860

The Oaks at Pearl Valley

From R 7 854 100

The Oaks at Pearl Valley. Your dream home on Pearl Valley at Val de Vie Estate is now easier than ever before. The Oaks offers buyers the opportunity to select either a golf or nature facing stand and build a double storey family home from pre designed plans.

Residents enjoy the secure relaxing lifestyle on this super estate of approximately 1000 hectares and have access to the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf course, Equestrian facilities, Clubhouse, Restaurants and many more. Prices from R7 854 100.

Contact: Lindie Gaigher 082 718 7043 or Jacques Nortjè 082 084 0860

Pearl Valley at Val de Vie

Pearl Valley at Val de Vie

R 4 950 000

Web Ref: 2088360

An opportunity to own what has to be the most coveted Resort Lodge on Pearl Valley.

We are thrilled to have this beautiful 4 bedroomed lodge to market. This is truly one of the most ideally positioned lodges on Pearl Valley at Val De Vie with its incredible uninterrupted views over a large expanse of water directly towards the iconic Simonsberg mountain. Sitting on the patio or on the lawns is the ideal way to start or end your day taking in the changing colours and shades on the mountains and the incredible bird life.

Contact: Leigh Robertson 082 882 8243 or Annelize Reinmüller 076 788 9918

From R 6 900 000

Web Ref: 2080540

Modern 4 bedroomed lakeside home on the exclusive Pearl Valley at Val De Vie. Entering this immaculate waterfront home, the visitor is met with beautiful views across the canal from the spacious double volume foyer and living areas. The ground floor houses an open plan lounge, designer Poggenpoel kitchen with integrated Meile appliances, dining room, large enclosed patio / braai room and a pool area all inter-connected by stacker and corner sliding doors. There is also a guest suite with en-suite bathroom, a guest cloak room, a utility room and a double garage. The first floor offers three en-suite bedrooms with a large main suite.

Contact: Leigh Robertson 082 882 8243 or Annelize Reinmüller 076 788 9918

Office at Pearl Valley Clubhouse +27 (0) 21 867 0161

Web Ref: 1995796

We are thrilled to be marketing this property. Upmarket finishes throughout this modern golf course facing home which comprises of 3 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a study, open plan kitchen, dining and living room, a spacious family / TV room as well as a large enclosed braai room with stacking doors that open to a wooden deck and pool. A wooden deck is perfect for watching the golf and sunset from. Contact your on-site agents in the Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty Office located in the reception area of the Pearl Valley Clubhouse.

Contact: Leigh Robertson 082 882 8243 or Annelize Reinmüller 076 788 9918

Pearl Valley at Val de Vie

R 7 750 000

Web Ref: 1172790

Boschenmeer Golf & Country Estate

R 6 890 000

Web Ref: 1873662

Architect, designed and set beautifully over two levels, with four bedrooms and four bathrooms. The Open plan living, kitchen and dining area has glass sliding doors which open onto a full - width terrace. The modern gas kitchen and European appliances flows to dining ensuring entertaining is effortless. Three en-suite bedrooms are found upstairs maximising the spectacular Boschenmeer Golf Estate views. We are the HOA Preferred Agents for Boschenmeer Golf Estate! Our offices are at the main Clubhouse and we would love to show you around.

Contact: Marinda de Jongh 082 573 2204 or Marilize Brown 083 241 1580

www.sothebysrealty.co.za Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

Office at Boschenmeer Golf Estate Clubhouse +27 (0) 21 863 0266

May 2017

Franschhoek Tatler

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R 8 900 000

Domaine Des Anges DUAL MANDATE –This recently thatched home is being offered for sale for the first time and comprises of 4 bedrooms 4 bathrooms.A double sided feature fireplace separates the large open-plan living and dining room. The kitchen is well appointed with quality fittings and has a large scullery with separate laundry -access to the garages from the house is thought the laundry. There is a separate self-contained fully equipped apartment upstairs which is accessible though the main house or via the private outside entrance and has lovely mountain views from most of the windows and from the Juliet balcony. The solid Kiaatwood cupboards in the dressing room are a feature of the main bedroom, and there is underfloor heating in all the bathrooms. The spacious covered patio/entertainment area with built in braai has views over the pool, vineyards and surrounding mountains. The estate offers a clubhouse for home owners with gym and tennis courts. The security on this beautiful estate is excellent. Levies : R 4730.00 Rates: 1525.00

Janice Hicks 072 991 6272 janice.hicks@rawson.co.za

R 5 100 000

New 3 bedroom house for sale in a fynbos estate This newly built home is situated on the well-known FranscheHoek Security Estate As you enter the house on the ground level it comprises of kitchen and lounge/dining room which are open plan with stacking doors that open up onto an expansive veranda/entertainment area that overlooks the valley with stunning views. The scullery is off the kitchen which is separate. Thelower level comprises 2 bedrooms both ensuite the main bedroom has a dressing room both rooms open out on the lawn with sliding doors.On the mezzanine level is the 3rdbedroom ensuite and separate to that is a large TV lounge / storeroom.The house has a double garage with automated doors. This Estate is known for their excellent security and is exceptionally well run.

Janice Hicks 072 991 6272 • janice.hicks@rawson.co.za

R 2 750 000

Top floor apartment with beautiful views This immaculate apartment is situated in a small safe and secure complex which is a rare find.

Within walking distance of the pulse of the centre of the village where the shops and restaurants make our village famous. It comprises of 2 beds 2 bath with climate control and ceilingfan. The kitchen and living area are open plan and share a balcony with the main bedroom which is en-suite. The lounge has a gas fireplace which is a great feature and warms up the apartment in winter. There is also underfloor heating and travertine tiles. The extra-large garage houses the laundry and the communal pool is a fantastic bonus. It also has a guest parking within the complex. The apartment will be sold fully furnished at an additional cost of R150,000.Levies: R1726.00 Rates: R 843.00

Janice Hicks 072 991 6272 • janice.hicks@rawson.co.za

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R 6,200,000

FRANSCHHOEK

3

3

Garages 2

420667

FRANSCHHOEK WINELANDS LIVING IN A SECURE ESTATE. This immaculate home commands spectacular views across the vineyards of the surrounding Franschhoek Mountains. Offering a lovely open plan lounge dining room with imported log burning fireplace and air-conditioning, beautifully fitted kitchen with separate laundry room, 3 bedrooms with en-suites, large undercover veranda, double garage and a landscaped garden with irrigation system.

R 2,250,000

FRANSCHHOEK

1

1

Garages 1

330433

ELEGANCE, LUXURY, VIEWS.A spacious and luxuriously furnished villa at L’Ermitage. Situated on the top floor with a large private terrace and fantastic views! One bedroom en-suite, lounge, dining area with fully equipped kitchen. Common features include swimming pool, Bar and Hotel. An ideal lifestyle getaway with income generating potential.

FRANSCHHOEK

2

R 2,800,000

1

Carport 1

423773

QUAINT FRANSCHHOEK COTTAGE WITH SPLENDID VIEWS AND HEAPS OF POTENTIAL. A wonderful opportunity to own the quintessential quaint Franschhoek cottage in a quiet part of town with fantastic mountain views. The cottage offers two bedrooms and 1 bathroom along with an open plan kitchen and lounge, a lovely covered stoep to the front and a garden as well as a carport. This splendid little gem would now benefit from some updating and has heaps of potential. It would make a lovely small home or be an excellent rental investment in our vibrant and busy town of Franschhoek.

May 2017

FRANSCHHOEK

10

R 37,500,000

9

Garages 2

423555

MAGNIFICENT FRANSCHHOEK SMALLHOLDING. A rare opportunity to purchase one of Franschhoek’s landmark properties, located on the edge of the village with breathtaking views of the valley and mountains. This 5.6 hectares property has a classic Cape Dutch manor house with lovely lounge, dining room, family room, bar, French style eat in kitchen, 4 bedrooms of which the main has his and her en-suites, staff accommodation and a swimming pool all of which are set in a landscaped garden. In addition, there are two cottages, one having 2 bedrooms and the other having 3 bedrooms and a double garage with flatlet above. There is borehole water for irrigation and domestic usage. Eskom supplies electricity..

FRANSCHHOEK

4

R 6,900,000

4

Parkings 2

387594

EXCLUSIVE HOME ON SOUGHT AFTER ESTATE. An exquisite north facing 4 bedroom family home on the La Petite Provence Wine Estate. The house is light and spacious and offers a double volume lounge with large fireplace, sitting room, country style kitchen and dining room, all opening onto the patio, pool and garden. The house offers 4 ensuite bedrooms, and a magnificent master bedroom, designed with space in mind! Dressing room and full bathroom ensuite. Enjoy beautiful mountain and vineyard views from the two terraces and fantastic security on a very sought after Estate with excellent communal facilities which include a Clubhouse, communal pool and tennis courts.

PEARL VALLEY

5

POA

5

Garages 2

WEB REF: 419315

OUT OF AFRICA. Designed for entertainers, this thatch roof home has extensive inside and outside living spaces, which capture the magnificent views while protecting outside entertainment areas from the prevailing winds. Generous living spaces include open plan lounge with double volume, dining room, kitchen, built-in-bar, sun patio, enclosed braai patio and family/games room with wine cellar and guest-toilet. In addition there are 5 en-suite bedrooms with the main having a balcony, walk-in dressing room and double shower. Outside undercover pool patio with log fireplace overlooks the pool which has a 360-degree rim flow walls, set in the same area is a thatch boma with sun deck and Jacuzzi.

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FRANSCHHOEK Office: 021 876 2100 • winelandsint@pamgolding.co.za

Ref# FWI1305138

Franschhoek / R8.5 million Bedrooms 5 / Bathrooms 4 / Garages 1 / Parking 2 / A masterpiece of elegance and style. The master bedroom en suite is situated upstairs with a private balcony enclosed by fold-back American Shutters to frame some of the most spectacular mountain views in the village. The property is sold unfurnished, but furniture can be purchased by separate agreement.

Doug Gurr 072 610 7208 / Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837

Ref# FWI1306488

Ref# FWI1248338

Franschhoek / R1.7 million

Franschhoek / R8.5 million

Design and build your own home within a secure estate. This 450 m2 plot offers beautiful views in the Fynbos area of Franschhe Hoek Estate. Building guidelines apply.

Bedrooms 4 / Bathrooms 4 / Parking 3 / Set in the exclusive Deltacrest Equestrian Estate, is this elegant, bright and spacious home.

Doug Gurr 072 610 7208 / Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837

Doug Gurr 072 610 7208 / Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837 /PamGoldingProperties

pamgolding.co.za

@PamGoldingGroup

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May 2017

Local expertise, national presence and international audience

FINE & COUNTRY FRANSCHHOEK AWARD-WINNING OFFICE Fine & Country Franschhoek were proud to receive the top sales award at the recent prestigious Annual Fine & Country Sub-Saharan Awards ceremony.

Our Principal Agent Tom Clode and Sales Agent Terry-Lee George jointly won First Place as a sales team out of 300 agents across 50 offices nationally, together with a number of other awards.

Following on from our “Licensee of the Year” award in 2016, this is a tremendous result and a testimony to the hard work and commitment shown by our entire Franschhoek team and to the Fine & Country brand.

We remain extremely grateful for the support we receive from the Franschhoek community and remain committed to continuing our professional service to buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants alike.

MANAGING PRINCIPALS OF FINE & COUNTRY FRANSCHHOEK, TOM AND HEIDI CLODE

FRANSCHHOEK

R6 500 000

FRANSCHHOEK

BRYAN CHAPLOG (EAAB) AND TERRY-LEE GEORGE

R6 900 000

FOUR BEDROOM VILLAGE HOME IN A QUIET CUL-DE-SAC IN FRANSCHHOEK VILLAGE

CLASSICALLY STYLED HOME WITH VIEWS ON SECURE WINE ESTATE IN FRANSCHHOEK

This lovely four bedroom property is set in an elevated position with stunning views. Featuring a large open-plan living room with fireplace, dining room and kitchen with patio doors out to a covered stoep overlooking the pool area . Upstairs is a pyjama lounge with a terrace with magnificent views over the village to the mountains.

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 | Tom Clode 079 955 3114 WEB: 177712

Immaculate home with generous accommodation in 4 en-suite bedrooms. All living areas flow around a central courtyard for poolside entertaining. Includes open-plan kitchen/dining with separate scullery/laundry, two lounges, study and two upstairs balconies with vineyard and mountain views. Double garage with direct access.

Terry-Lee George 082 650 9194 | Tom Clode 079 955 3114 WEB:177892

Franschhoek Office 23 Huguenot Street Franschhoek, 7690 +27 (0)21 876 3322 franschhoek@fineandcountry.com

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

Regionally 20 offices throughout Gauteng Nationally 50 offices across South Africa Internationally Over 300 offices globally

www.fineandcountry.com