The Village NEWS 28 April - 4 May 2021

THE VILLAGE

NEWS

28 APRIL 2021 YOUR FREE COPY #ALLOVEROVERSTRAND The next issue of The Village NEWS will be out on 5 May 2021.

THIS IS THE GOOD NEWS

What a weekend!

Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor Trail Run

Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor Dash for Cash winners

Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor MTB

Race2Stanford Triathlon PHOTO: Oakpics

Race2Stanford Triathlon (below) PHOTO: Oakpics

Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor Sprint Triathlon (left)

Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor See & Sand Swim Run Jump

The Cape Whale Coast came alive this weekend with several long-awaited sporting events, including the Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor Sports Festival and the Race2Stanford Triathlon.

The various events included trail runs, MTB races, open-water swims and kayaking which took place in different locations, from the New Harbour to the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley to Stanford, drawing both athletes and spectators to our beautiful region. “It felt like a second Easter weekend,” said Tourism Manager Frieda Lloyd. “The influx of athletes and visitors provided an economic injection for our local businesses, which was sorely needed at this time as we head into the winter months.” Read more on P3.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 April 2021

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#ALLOVEROVERSTRAND

28 April 2021

Celebrating the great outdoors T

Race2Stanford a huge success A nother highlight on the sporting calendar that took place this weekend was the annual Race2Stanford Triathlon, with 250 brave athletes setting off early on Saturday morning from the New Harbour in Hermanus.

his year’s Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor Festival brought a record number of participants to Hermanus over the Freedom Day long weekend, with over 1 500 athletes taking part in a total of 21 events spread over four days. As The Village NEWS was going to print on Monday, the last events were still wrapping up and all the results will be available on the website, walkerbayoutdoor.com.

The golden-pink sky looked like an oil painting as the sun rose over Walker Bay and the participants swam out into the cold, calm water. The 1.9km open-water course, laid out by the Station Commander of NSRI Station 17, André Barnard and his team, marked the first leg of this gruelling ultra-distance triathlon.

Gerhardi Odendaal, group CEO of Old School Group, the organisers of the festival, said the event was a huge success, even under the difficult circumstances that resulted from the global pandemic. “The main reason for the popularity of the Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor (WBO) is people’s love of the great outdoors – and what better place to experience just that than Hermanus and surrounds. This beautiful and hospitable seaside town, with its scenic beauty and world-class MTB routes and hiking trails, not to mention its fantastic wine route and restaurants, is perfectly placed to host sporting events of this nature,” said Gerhardi.

Ironman champion and pro triathlete, Matt Trautman led Durban-based open-water ace Gareth Dias and young Port Elizabeth professional athlete Keegan Cooke out of the water and into the second leg of the race – the 90km cycle. The threetime Race2Stanford champion was imperious as he rocketed his way over the toughest and most scenic bike course in the world.

“There is a global trend towards embracing a healthier lifestyle, and the WBO is as much a competition as a celebration of people’s desire to be fit and strong. Every athlete I spoke to said it was an amazing experience and that they would be back next year, which is also good news for Hermanus businesses, many of whom said they’d had their busiest weekend in a long time.”

The steep and now infamous La Vierge and Shaw’s Pass climbs provided a massive challenge and equally large bragging rights to amateurs, while Trautman set a new 4 hour and 17 minute course record in ideal windless, cool April conditions. Behind him, South African champion Annah Watkinson made her way past the early swim leaders on the point-to-point bike leg through Caledon, past Raka Wines and onto the Akkedisberg Pass. She kept her lead into the

Above all, Gerhardi thanked the locals of Hermanus for their enthusiastic support.

“The hospitality of the locals and the splendid weather was more than we could have hoped for,” he said. (See more photos on our Facebook page, Village Explorer) TOP: Athletes were treated to beautiful sea and mountain views during their races.

ABOVE: The Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor was enjoyable for both athletes and spectators as Hermanus was blessed with sunny and windless weather for the weekend.

LEFT: Locals Leanne and Adam McConnell took part in the Hi-Tec Walker Bay Outdoor Ledlenser Twilight Run on Friday from Grotto Beach to Hermanus Old Harbour.

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

CIRCLE: Annah Watkinson continued her winning streak and set a new record for the women's category, finishing the triathlon in 5 hours.

RIGHT: Matt Trautman took the win in the men's category again this year with a new record time of 4 hours and 17 minutes.

PHOTOS: Oakpics (for more pics, find them on Facebook)

third leg of the race (running) all the way to the tape on the village green in Stanford, clocking a new record time of 5 hours flat.

The riders were safely escorted by exceptionally well-received traffic services and the Think Bike motorised marshals, who were especially necessary given the ongoing roadworks in the Overstrand region.

The beautiful four-lap running course (21km) took athletes from all over South Africa on a scenic tour along the 'wandelpad' around the quaint village of Stanford. “Athletes laughed, many almost in tears, as they collapsed over the finish line onto the grass at the village green. Almost everyone agreed that it was a ‘brutal but beautiful’ course,” said Paul Ingpen, founder and organiser of the Race2Stanford event.

This 116km challenge, which took athletes anything from 4 hours and 17 minutes to a staggering 10 hours and 10 minutes, is ideal for those who love to test their true limits in the great outdoors.

“Thank you to the patient business owners at Hermanus New Harbour, those on the walking trails and road users for putting up with the crowds. Many locals commented on how good it was to see tourists and events back after 13 months of lockdown," said Paul. “A big thanks also to event partners SEESA and to National Health Care for the R10 000 given to each overall winner. The future looks bright for this event!”

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#ALLOVEROVERSTRAND

28 April 2021

Mthimkhulu, deeply rooted in Kleinmond community Writer Elaine Davie

T

here is something about a big, old tree that seems to speak to us in a very fundamental way.

It represents resilience, continuity, shelter, and perhaps ultimately, hope.

One such tree has taken on iconic status in Kleinmond, so much so that the NGO that operates within its shadow has linked its name to the landmark: Mthimkhulu – The Big Tree.

The large property on the Main Road was bought by Kleinmond’s Grail Centre Trust in about 2004, and the Mthimkhulu Community Development project was launched in 2007.

Over the past 14 years a considerable amount of development has taken place on its extensive campus, but at the same time, from a project point of view, it has experienced many ups and downs. As with other NPOs in this country, most of the downs have been occasioned by severe funding constraints.

As an international spiritual movement the Grail particularly concerns itself with the education and empowerment of women, environmental protection and the promotion of peace through active community development. The location of Mthimkhulu on the Main Road of Kleinmond at the point of intersection between the various sub-sections of the community placed it in the ideal position, felt the founders, to bring together residents at all socio-economic levels to work together on projects and build bridges of understanding between them.

A couple of years ago, the Trust decided to sub-divide the very large property and sell off one section, using the capital as an on-going source of funding. Due to a number of unforeseen difficulties, this has unfortunately not yet happened and lack of funding is still a huge stumbling block.

However, In June last year, a new manager, Joan Daries was appointed to run the Mthimkhulu Development Centre and more specifically to co-ordinate existing projects, initiate new

projects and recruit new tenants for some of its under-utilised buildings.

A former High School teacher and a community development practitioner with over 40 years’ experience, Joan took on the challenge with enthusiasm, although arriving slap-bang in the middle of the pandemic was not what one might call good timing.

These adverse circumstances notwithstanding, Mthimkhulu is once more coming to life with a host of diverse projects. Some are run by the project itself and others by NPO tenants, each with its own focus, but together forming an interlinking network with outreach into the surrounding community. Every second Saturday, now, a market is held there, with the purpose of giving local entrepreneurs the opportunity of selling their wares.

Gradually local performing artists are also starting to use this platform to showcase their talent.

As Joan says, “The market is a place where the different communities are starting to mix on an informal basis, and they are seeing Mthimkhulu as an accessible resource. We have a fully-equipped commercial kitchen, which was formerly used for chef training and people are able to hire it for small community functions. We also find that various groups, like the fishers, or small church groups now make regular use of our venues for their meetings.”

A small vegetable garden that was started some time back at Mthimkhulu is now being expanded in collaboration with Food and Trees for Africa, assisted by Shoprite, to produce organically-grown vegetables. These will be used to feed the children attending the various projects on campus, again using the cooking facilities to operate a daily soup kitchen. The vegetable garden project was officially launched on Monday 26 April.

Mthimkhulu is indeed becoming a place filled with the sound of children’s voices. Apart from its own small ECD centre catering for about 42 children, it also provides additional space for the Kidz Can after-school centre round the corner. Now that the

primary school children no longer attend school every day, the centre has been obliged to double its capacity and offer a full-day service.

Since the beginning of this year, Mthimkhulu has also been happy to provide a home for the newly-established Kleinmond Special Daycare service run by the Overstrand Association for Persons with Disabilities (OAPD). Since they opened their doors on 4 January 2021 they have worked hard to create a safe space where children with disabilities can follow a daily programme that focuses on a holistic approach to child development and learning.

A brand-new project which has only just been launched at Mthimkhulu is an after-school centre for Kleinmond’s High School learners. Since there is no High School in Kleinmond, most of its learners are bussed to Hawston, Hermanus and Caledon and return to their home-town around mid-afternoon. Given the amount of teaching they missed last year as a result of lockdown and the fact that many of them don’t have access to the internet, this centre has been set up by NPO, The High School Trust to provide them with extra coaching, especially in subjects like Maths and Science.

“The response to this project has been fantastic,” says Joan. “The classes are filling up fast. Apart from two large ordinary classrooms, they have access to our computer room with 30 desk-top computers and free WiFi. Because they are usually hungry when they arrive at about 3 pm, with the assistance of Shoprite, we are able to give them soup and bread before they settle down to their school work until 6 pm.”

Another project for teenagers and young people, run by Mthimkhulu itself, involves skills and entrepreneurial training. “Most of these youngsters are school drop-outs from poor families,” explains Joan. “Many of them are at risk of getting into trouble with the law; some of the girls have had teen pregnancies. To break the chain of intergenerational poverty, they must be given access to some type of

The Mthimkhulu Community Development project in Kleinmond has taken its name from the isiXhosa word for ‘Big Tree’. Dwarfed by its size are, from left, Project Manager Joan Daries, Financial Officer Brandon Smook and Programme Manager Debbie Hull.

PHOTO: Elaine Davie skill which will empower them to start their own small businesses.”

The courses they offer include basic computer skills, catering (former students are now making muffins and cookies to sell at the Saturday market) and beauty treatment. They also attend workshops on job readiness, which includes compiling a CV and office etiquette. Mthimkhulu is presently exploring the option of introducing the participants (around 200 at any given time) to online courses, which will provide them with a certified qualification on completion.

Joan is particularly proud of their community health project run in collaboration with the Department of Health. They have 10 trained community health workers under the supervision of a nursing sister, who, as she says, do a sterling job of creating public awareness and educating the community on all aspects of health care and safety in the home, anything

from teaching them to do a bed wash for an elderly parent, to recognising the symptoms of a childhood ailment, as well as doing screenings for Covid-19 and facilitating immunisations. Several of them have seen this as a first step towards a full-scale nursing career and have gone on to qualify at a higher level.

The opportunity for women to take leadership roles in all aspects of life is something Joan strongly promotes.

“By excluding them from these positions, society is a lot poorer. And here in Kleinmond, surrounded by nature, there is such a strong Sense of Place and such a powerful spirit of human kindness that we at Mthimkhulu believe we are in the right place at the right time to activate meaningful personal and community empowerment.”

For more information and funding options, visit the Mthimkhulu Community Development Facebook page or call 028 271 5213.

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

FROM THE EDITOR

28 April 2021

Who will speak up for democracy?

This past week President Ramaphosa announced the date for this year’s municipal elections – 27 October. On Tuesday we celebrated Freedom Day commemorating that remarkable day in 1994 when we queued around the block to participate in our very first post-Apartheid general election. Most of us will have vivid recollections of the celebratory mood and the hope we had for a better future.

Let’s look at where we are today. Across all population groups it would be safe to say, that state of euphoria has long since dissipated. And maybe that’s not

such a bad thing. Instead of believing that government, or a particular party, will hand democracy to us as a free gift, an increasing number of citizens are beginning to realise that’s not how it works. If true democracy is to take hold in South Africa, we the people will have to step up – despite the best efforts of those in authority to keep us submissively compliant.

Three events occurred in the last fortnight in different parts of the globe which brought this into sharp focus. On the one hand there was the incident in Hawaii where a young black South

African was killed by police; secondly, there was the terrifying fire on Table Mountain and thirdly, there were the football clubs in the UK which unilaterally decided to form a Super League.

Different countries, vastly different circumstances, but with one thing in common: accountability, or lack of it.

other government entities, the perpetrators have not been held to account – think Marikana, Life Esidimeni and the Andries Tatane case, for example.

Next, take the Table Mountain fire which wreaked destruction on a devastating scale. We hear that the uncontrolled spread of alien plants and vegetation litter, together with a lack of effective fire breaks was significantly responsible for its size and speed. Who will be held responsible and by whom?

In Hawaii, spurred on by the recent George Floyd case, steps are being taken to hold the police officers to account. We must demand to know why, in this country, case after case involving the death of ordinary citizens at the hands of law enforcement and

The saga of the English football debacle has received wide media coverage,

mostly because of its outcome. While the football bosses and financial backers took the decision to go ahead with their proposed Super League, the fans made their voices heard in no uncertain terms and they were forced to back down.

As our own elections loom, we need to ask ourselves how we can bring back our dream of democracy. Let’s take back the power as citizens, not by force and not just at the polls, but by numbers and a united spirit of justice for all. Each one of us has a voice. Let it be heard. This is the good NEWS - Ed

Marco at a crossroad in NEWS Mandalay THE VILLAGE

De Waal Steyn

terrifying enough, but now, if he was to reach Mandalay by ‘just heading north’, he had to negotiate this sweltering cesspit called Burma. Easier said than done.

PUBLISHING EDITOR

Hedda Mittner

It was a never-ending impenetrable jungle with slimy swamps breeding creepies and crawlies he’d only had nightmares about. Deadly vipers dangled overhead, and scorpions scrunched underfoot while mosquitos the size of bumble-bees attacked every inch of exposed skin. It was horrible.

CONTENT EDITOR T: 083 645 3928

E: hedda@thevillagenews.co.za Taylum Meyer PRODUCTION MANAGER, PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN T: 084 564 0779

E: taylum@thevillagenews.co.za

Charé van der Walt MARKETING & SALES MANAGER T: 082 430 1974

E: chare@thevillagenews.co.za

Elaine Davie

JOURNALIST T: 084 343 7500

E: elaine@thevillagenews.co.za

ADMINISTRATION & SOCIAL MEDIA

By Murray Stewart murray.stewart49@gmail.com

B

eing the last week of the month, we pick up where Marco’s travels found him in the port of Phuket, Siam. He was told to ‘just head north’ past Rangoon, and he would eventually reach the famous Silk Route. If he turned right at the T-junction, that road would take him directly to where the silk comes from – the land where Pa was staying with Kubla Cohen in his casino resort called Xanadu.

It had taken Marco three weeks to travel from Phuket to Rangoon by boat – a rickety sampan with more holes than a golf course. That was

He’d replaced his make-shift gold-bearing jockstrap with a conventional money belt, as the clanking of the coins drew unnecessary attention to his groin area when he walked. With seven of the twelve coins left, he used two of them to secure a place in the weekly caravan to Mandalay. The fee included meals, accommodation and transport, which Marco considered a bargain for the seven-day trip.

Sadly though, the meals were basically spiced roadkill on a braai, followed by any low-hanging fruit for dessert. Together with the herbal green tea, opium hookahs were passed round as an ‘after-dinner mint’. A relaxing nightcap for an oblivious slumber.

Accommodation included a blanket and a spot near the fire after dark for safety, while the transport turned out to be a combination of walking, riding an elephant, or straddling a huge grey water buffalo with horns like a Hell’s Angel’s Harley.

The leader of the expedition, Mongol Angelo – nick-named Mongelo – was, as his name implies, of mixed race. His dad was a regular rank-andfile invader and pillager – very popular amongst the marauding Mongols at the time, so he got around a bit.

His mom was a missionary, born and bred in Naples before travelling east to spread the gospel to the Muslims and Buddhists. Here she encountered his dad and they fell in love.

As a result, Mongelo learnt a few languages, and thanks to his mom – and thankfully for Marco – Italian was one of them.

With a Fu Man Chu moustache that would make any Mexican bandit jealous, he assembled the travellers to brief them on the journey – not unlike today’s in-flight safety announcements, although far less pleasant on the eye. He warned them to be wary of three things.

Firstly, thugs. They were the masked highwaymen, the caravan-robbers of the region who would happily

relieve you of your money, your elephant and your wife before slitting your throat.

Secondly, the jungles were teeming with snakes, scorpions, crocodiles and sabre-tooth tigers with a penchant for humans. And thirdly, bands of militia from Cambodia to the south-east were constantly scouring the jungles in search of sacrifices for Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge.

“Better to die by tiger,” Mongelo suggested cheerfully, “not Khmer Rouge, okay?”

As they set off north from the city, and with a shiver of anticipation, Marco took his place among the other twenty travellers chanting ‘Do you know the way to Mandalay?’ to which Mongelo would yodel ‘Goodbye yerrow blick load’ in reply. Anyway, it turns out they weren’t robbed, murdered, eaten or sacrificed, but after the first night of the opium and green tea, Marco couldn’t care less if they were.

He took to the after-dinner mint cocktails like a duck to water, and didn’t restrict his intake to after dinners only. As a result he reached Mandalay comfortably numb and high as a kite, and this, sadly, was where things went haywire. Until next time…

E: barbara@thevillagenews.co.za

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FORECASTS: HERMANUS, OVERBERG Proudly sponsored by Talisman Tool Hire Hermanus

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LEGEND / KEY

Wed | 28 Apr

Thu | 29 Apr

Fri | 30 Apr

Sat | 1 May

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Mon | 3 May

Tue | 4 May

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#thevillagenews #alloveroverstrand #lovealittlelocal #thisisthegoodnews

The next editon of The Village NEWS will be out on 5 May 2021.

De Bos Dam N/A Last week 83.64% Weekly Rainfall N/A Last week 5mm

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#ALLOVEROVERSTRAND

28 April 2021

LET'S TALK The Village NEWS firmly believes in freedom of the press as well as the right of individuals to freely express themselves, as long as they don’t infringe upon the rights of others. The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors therefore do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Village NEWS. Letters may be shortened and/or edited for clarity and style.

Send your letters to hedda@thevillagenews.co.za.

Your generosity will provide their shelter There is a place of shelter aching to open its doors to neglected people.

The good news is that the Hermanus Night Shelter in Mt. Pleasant is up – but it can't start running without the kindness of local residents and the generosity of businesses. Most of the basic infrastructure to accommodate the hapless and the abandoned is in place.

But – and this is more than just a plea – it is imperative that it be given urgent assistance with beds and bedding, for a start, to house the homeless, including the elderly, the

sick and the needy.

Ray Hartmann, Treasurer of the Hermanus Night Shelter (HNS) urges as many people with caring hearts to search through their homes to find unwanted beds, warm blankets, pillows and single mattresses and to donate them to the shelter.

There may be other items that will help to realise the provision of a night shelter as soon as possible in our town. If anyone has second-hand items in reasonable, working condition these will be most appreciated, too.

Especially needed are kitchen and bathroom shelves, worktops, bunk beds, single foam mattresses, heavy-duty plastic chairs, washing machines, tumble driers, fridge freezers, and a chest fridge. The list is comprehensive and particulars are obtainable from Ray at nightshelterhermanus@gmail.com. For example, three single bed bases plus mattresses with bedding are required at present for the flatlet and sick bay.

canteen tables, gutters and downpipes.

Local businesses may be in a position to assist with the larger items required such as an electric oven, gas hobs, built-in cupboards, desks, steel

Winter is on our doorstep. Sponsorships and donations go far beyond sparing a thought for the homeless – they are the lifeblood enabling the

Recently the shelter had the good fortune of receiving a donation from CTM in Hermanus of all the wall and floor tiles, plus tile adhesive and grouting for the shower areas in the building. Ray says he and his committee of voluntary helpers are extremely grateful for the show of support by that local business.

HNS to become a reality this winter.

Banking details: Hermanus Night Shelter, Absa Bank Limited, Hermanus Branch - Code 334812 (this defaults to 632005 for Electronic Fund Transfers), Current Acc No: 4082927061. Reference: your contact details e.g. cell number or email address for acknowledgement of receipt.

HNS is a registered Public Benefit Organisation (No 930045608). Donations Tax Certificates will be issued to donors who request these.

Anne Philip

Bylaws for walking your dog the Blue Flag requirements for this period.

24-hr Safety and Security Control Room on 028 313 8980.

People who walk their dogs must have bags with them to pick up dog droppings. In fact, carry extras and offer them to dog owners who aren't prepared or may not yet be educated about the importance of picking up after their dogs.

Alternatively send an email to enquiries@overstrand.gov.za, providing us with the licence plate or address of the person concerned.

Section 6(2) and (3) of this by-law clearly stipulate that "No person may or cause to be allowed any dog to be in a public place unless it is kept on a leash.”

Allowing a dog in a public place without being kept on a leash under control of a person will result in a fine or impoundment.

Also note, that dog owners making use of Overstrand’s beaches that earned Blue Flag status must respect

Any contravention of this bylaw can be reported to the Municipality’s Law Enforcement on 028 313 8996 or the

• Place all litter including cigarette butts in the bins provided • All dogs must be leashed • Dog walkers must pick up after their dogs • Municipal by-laws will be enforced

It is against the Municipality’s bylaw to have dogs off-leash in public places and people who follow the law are frustrated by those who don't.

The monthly Overstrand Hospice 600 Club draw was held on 15 April. The draw was overseen by Lynn Silifant (right) who represented Don Adams Auditors and Sr Wilma Barnes (left) did the draw. The lucky winners are: 1st prize Alison Ross (Toombs) - R5 000; 2nd prize Nigel Woods - R2 500; 3rd prize Laina Lesicnik - R1 000. Congratulations to our winners and a warm thank you for supporting our 600 Club. Please contact Suzette on 028 3124679 or email 600admin@ overstrandhospice.org.za to join. Not only do you stand a chance every month to win one of three cash prizes, but your support can make a difference in the life of a patient.

According to the municipal bylaw dogs must always be on a leash and should be under control of the person holding the leash.

Welcome to the Hermanus Cliff Path

Enjoy the cliff path experience!

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WHAT’S ON

OVERBERG 30

FRIDAY

Friday Morning Market Hosted by Gansbaai Tourism, this fun-filled market offers lovely, fresh, home-baked goodies, from jams to cookies and much more, every Friday morning.

Pretorius Hall, Gansbaai Main Road | 09:00 – 11:30 Wine Down Friday Celebrate that TGIF feeling at The Wine Glass at the end of a busy week!

Enjoy the vibe and get two for the price of one on selected wines, beers and nibbles. Book via www.thewineglass.guru or call 082 082 0007.

The Wine Glass, 2 Harbour Rd, Hermanus | 16:00 – 18:00 Bottomless Bubbles Fridays Start the weekend in style at the iconic Marine Hotel with bottomless bubbles from L’Ormarins and chef’s welcome canapés at R200 pp and get 10% discount off your dinner that same evening. Booking is essential on 028 313 1000 or bookings@themarine.co.za.

The Marine | 17:00 – 19:00

WINE & DINE

Nature Reserve Camp Whale Coast Conservation invites you to join them for an overnight camp under the milkwoods in the beautiful Whale Coast Nature Reserve.

Arriving at the Reserve gate at 17:00, you’ll settle in and enjoy a braai before going on a chameleon hunt, followed by a beach exploration the next morning, both under the expert guidance of WCC’s Sheraine van Wyk. (Then you can help to plant a forest – see 1 May.) You will need to bring your own camping gear, food, beverages, etc. Braai wood will be supplied. The cost for the overnight experience in this very special private reserve is R200 per adult and R100 for children U12. Book your place soon as a maximum of 30 people will

be allowed. Contact shirleym.wcc@ gmail.com. Detailed directions will be provided when you book.

Whale Coast Nature Reserve | 17:00 Stanford Sunset Market Stanford's favourite, family-friendly, dog-friendly market brings local food, coffee, deli products, gifts, plants, fresh produce and live tunes to the heritage market square on the last Friday of the month. Pop in, meet new people, hook up with old friends, support local vendors, and take delicious food home for the whole weekend. Free entrance and plenty of free parking. Please wear a mask and follow Covid protocols of social distancing.

Stanford Market Square | 18:00 – 20:00 (in the event of rain, the venue will be at Birkenhead Brewery)

so arrive with an appetite. Dress snuggly, bring your own camping chair/blanket and come with your best singing voice to join the Barden Bellas in this hilarious comedy.

Tickets at R100 for adults and R75 for pensioners and children 13 years and younger are available at milkywayproductions.co.za/events/pitch-perfect. Own food and drinks will not be permitted but the restaurant will be fully operational.

Wildekrans Wine Estate, Bot River | 18:00 (gates open & movie starts at 19:30)

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SATURDAY

Hermanus Country Market A favourite among the locals. Young, old, two-legged and four-legged family members are all welcome.

You’ll find wholesome goodies, home-made crafts, local produce, beers and wine, speciality foods, coffee and live music.

Next to Hermanus Cricket Field | 09:00 – 13:00 Die Markie It’s Saturday. Time to recharge the batteries... Where better to kick off your shoes and put your feet up than Die Markie, where you can meet up with family and friends and take it easy in a safe, open-air environment?

Share a platter, a pizza or a bottle, or grab an empty plate and glass to pick and choose a brekkie, brunch or lunch and sip of your choosing. Wear your mask, sanitise, energise and enjoy a Slice of Life...

Hermanuspietersfontein Wynkelder | 09:00 – 13:00

Outdoor Movie Night Enjoy a screening of Pitch Perfect under the stars at the picturesque Wildekrans Wine Estate. A yummy selection of food, popcorn and a cash bar will be available on the night,

Gansbaai Farmers’ Market Specialising in fresh produce, home-baked foods, and crafts.

Come and enjoy entertainment and refreshments at this popular kuierplek. For enquiries, contact 028 384 1439 or doulene@gansbaaitour-

30 APRIL – 8 MAY 2021 Send your events to hedda@thevillagenews.co.za ism.co.za Kapokblom Street, opposite Gansbaai Tourism | 09:00 – 13:00 The Big Tree Market Come and support Kleinmond’s local vendors and spoil the children at this fun family-friendly community market.

Mthimkhulu Centre, 102 Main Rd, Kleinmond | 09:00 – 14:00 Stanford Saturday Morning Market Come and sample the artisanal delights on display, from homemade sheep and goats’ cheeses to wood-fired ciabattas, pastries and pies, charcuterie, farm-fresh vegetables, free-range eggs, flowers, preserves and deli delights (including gluten-free, wheat-free and vegan goodies) to tantalise your taste buds! #Nomasksnoservice.

Stanford Hotel Stoep | 09:00 – 12:00 Plant a forest Celebrate Worker’s Day by making a difference for the environment and getting to work on planting ‘Frank’s Forest’. Whale Coast Conservation is planting 400 trees to celebrate Frank Woodvine's extraordinary life in conservation and they need an army of volunteers to help. Park your car about 200m on the Hawston side of the Green House next to the R43 (look out for the WCC banner). The nearby gate to the WCC Reserve will be opened for volunteers from 09:30 (no dogs allowed). Bring a shovel, watering can and refreshments, and walk just under 1 km to the forest planting site, where the holes will be ready for you to plant the trees.

For more info and directions, email shirleym.wcc@gmail.com.

Whale Coast Nature Reserve | 10:00 Craft Beer & Bratwurst Celebration Enjoy an afternoon of good vibes in

The Courtyard with local craft beers, delicious bratwurst, live music, wine and cocktails. The Wine Glass’s full menu will also be available for those who are interested. Call 082 082 0007 to make a booking.

The Wine Glass, 2 Harbour Rd, Hermanus | 13:00 – 18:00 (Sat & Sun)

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SUNDAY

Hermanus Art in the Park Come and support our local Overberg artists, every first Sunday of the month, come rain or shine as the venue has covered stalls. They’ll be exhibiting paintings, ceramics, jewellery, photography, books, woodwork and other crafts. Food and refreshments will be available, as well as children’s activities. If you wish to exhibit your work, contact Gilly Shreeve on 082 878 9558 or gillyshreeve@ netactive.co.za.

Hermanus Country Market | 09:00 – 13:00

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SATURDAY

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#ALLOVEROVERSTRAND

28 April 2021

LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

New restaurant replaces Betty Blue T

here are surely many foodies out there who were sorry to see Betty Blue closed up for several months, but these days the premises are sporting a fresh new look, a new name and new owners. ‘Brinjals & Thyme’ has an almost poetic ring to it and the muted colour palette creates a serene ambience, providing the perfect background to chef Hannes Pieterse’s gorgeous food.

After 10 successful years the partners sold Gerard Moerdyk to open a restaurant and function venue on Rademeyers Country Estate, bordering the Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve. They also went on to run the luxurious Shikwari Bush Lodge on a game reserve near Hoedspruit and were the owners of the Tea Café in Waterkloof.

Hannes and his business partner, Jaco Nel, who runs front-of-house, have 36 years of experience in the restaurant industry. Although he studied law, Hannes says he never practiced because the opportunity to purchase a restaurant all those years ago proved irresistible. Cooking had been his passion since childhood and he has never looked back since taking over the Matador in Pretoria in 1985. In 1991 Hannes and Jaco opened their second restaurant, Gerard Moerdyk, named after the renowned architect who designed the Voortrekker Monument, along with several other iconic

If the name ‘Brinjals & Thyme’ sounds familiar, it’s because this is Jaco and Hannes’s second stint in Hermanus – they opened the first Brinjals & Thyme in the Village Square in 2018. Having spent many a holiday in the Western Cape, mainly in Franschhoek and on the Whale Coast, they had always nurtured the dream of settling permanently in Hermanus. When they finally took the plunge their timing proved to be unfortunate as they not only struggled to find the right premises but it was also the year when rioting had a detrimental impact on the local economy.

buildings in South Africa.

But now they are back – and in a great location on Main Road. “It’s been wonderful to catch up with our old clients, many of whom have moved to Hermanus from Pretoria in recent years,” says Jaco. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast and lunch, and for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings.

They serve a variety of scrumptious breakfasts and great coffee (Miko, a rich Italian roast) and Mediterannean-inspired meals that range from open bruschetta treats, mezze platters and healthy salads to delicious mains such as pasta pescatore, a lentil and brinjal bobotie served with raita in a roti, and a rösti beef burger with avo, feta and tzatziki. Vegetarians are well catered for and vegan options are also available. Be on the look-out for the new deli that Hannes and Jaco plan on opening soon in the back section of the restaurant.

Find Brinjals & Thyme at 126 Main Road, Hermanus or call 076 176 5708 to book.

– Hedda Mittner

Hannes Pieterse and Jaco Nel welcome patrons to their new restaurant in the Hermanus CBD. PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

Eat, drink, crochet!

More than 10 years ago, when Petrus and Estelle Hendriksz were the owners of Fusion, an informal crocheting group was formed that got together weekly at the restaurant.

And while it often happens that these social groups peter out after a while, this particular group has been going strong ever since, with most of the original members (and a few newcomers) turning up for their jovial get-togethers at Char’d every Tuesday morning.

From left are Willi Neusch, who is well known in Hermanus for his woodworking skills and recently joined the group, Narina Howard, Marietjie Kruger, Michelle Jones, Molly Shnier, Estelle Hendriksz, Anita Comins, Nerina Heyns, Jane Bosman and Anja Kuiper.

The only thing that has changed over the years is the venue, although it’s still kept within the family, so to speak, as the owner of Char’d is Estelle’s son, Petri Hendriksz. Both of them are balls of energy and, since selling Fusion several years ago, Estelle has clearly found that retirement is not for her and now manages the financial side of Char’d. It can’t be all work and no play, though, and on Tuesday mornings the group enjoys catching up over a cup of free coffee and adding their handiwork to the growing pile of colourful

jerseys, blankets, scarves and beanies.

Their beautiful creations are donated to various charitable projects, be it for the Hermanus Hospital, for HAWS or Mandela Day, and now also the Zwelihle Recycle Swop Shop, chaired by Narina Howard, who is also one of the group’s newest members. “Yes, I’m the new kid on the block but I was made to feel so welcome that I immediately felt at home,” she says. “I’m very grateful for the way in which the ladies have embraced the children who benefit from the Swop Shop, and also for donating food items every week.”

Most of the group members have been crocheting for many years, including Estelle, while others were keen to learn and were taught by others in the group. “Coming here every week is almost like therapy – it keeps me sane,” says Nerina Heyns. A sentiment with which the others whole-heartedly agree.

– Hedda Mittner

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LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

Overstrand Municipality ranked 3rd in SA O Exploring alternative energy verstrand Municipality has added another feather to its cap after being ranked third among the best-run municipalities in South Africa, for good financial management and its impact on service delivery.

In a media statement Anton Bredell, the Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning in the Western Cape, says the province scored an average rate of 53 out of 100 across its 30 municipalities.

According to the latest Municipal Financial Stability Index report, published by Ratings Afrika, the Western Cape is the highest-scoring province in the country.

This is the highest in the country. The second highest scoring province was KwaZulu-Natal with 39 and in third place was the Northern Cape with 33.

The top municipalities in the Western Cape, are: 1.Mossel Bay 2.Saldanha Bay 3.Overstrand 4.Swartland

“We want to celebrate the results and congratulate all our councils of the Western Cape municipalities who have fared well,” says Bredell. “It doesn’t mean that we live in a perfect world. There are many challenges and the triple impact of poverty, unemployment and inequality remains a massive issue. In the Western Cape we continue to see massive population growth, driven in a large part by ongoing inwards migration towards the province. We also see continued urbanisation that is placing strain on larger councils.”

The index is based on municipalities' operating performance, liquidity management, debt governance, budget practices, affordability and infrastructure development for the financial year ended June 2020.

Ratings Afrika defines financial stability for municipalities as “the financial ability to deliver services and develop and maintain the infrastructure required by its residents without unplanned increases in rates and taxes or reduction in service”.

However, Bredell says independent reports like these are critical weathervanes indicating the ability of a municipality to continue providing services and a better life to the people in its communities despite the challenges.

The national government recently changed the country’s energy regulation, allowing municipalities to purchase electrical energy directly from independent power producers (IPPs) and/or to develop their own generation facilities.

According to Overstrand Executive Mayor, Dudley Coetzee, this opens opportunities for the municipality to investigate a variety of renewable energy projects to “see if we can purchase electricity from renewable energy independent power producers to reduce our dependence on Eskom”. He confirmed that Overstrand Municipality has been selected to take part in two provincial initiatives aimed at taking advantage of the new energy regulations, namely the Sustainable Infrastructure Development and Financial Facility (SIDAFF) as well as the Municipal Energy Resilience Project (MER).

In addition to the two Provincial Government programmes mentioned above, the Municipality has embarked on the following activities as a first step in a long journey to minimise load shedding: The municipality has an active Small-Scale Embedded Generation (SSEG) programme, with 25 clients taking part. This programme allows municipal clients with renewable energy generation capacity, for own use

on their own land, to feed excess energy into the municipal electricity network. The programme started in 2016 and the municipality has a total SSEG capacity of 201kVA connected to the grid. The municipality is in discussion with two IPPs regarding the installation of Solar Photo Voltaic plants in Kleinmond (18MW) and Gansbaai (10MW).

The municipality is in discussion with a renewable energy company, regarding the installation of a pilot Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) system for the generation of electricity from municipal waste water at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. The project is for a phased implementation, starting with a small pilot plant and over time increasing the capacity up to 5MW. The municipality is in discussion with an energy trading company regarding a pilot project to assist them to obtain an electrical power trading license from NERSA. The pilot project is for a capacity of 1MW and can be expanded. It should be noted that this journey to increase the renewable energy capacity will not be a short one due to a number of factors outside the control of the municipality. However, the public can rest assured that there is political and administrative will to ensure that the intent to increase renewable energy capacity is realised.

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LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

Jesse eyes international playing field Writer Sarah Taylor

J

esse Steyn, a Hermanus youngster with a passion for soccer and his community, has set his sights on the United States to gain international experience in both the academic and sporting spheres.

Inspired by his soccer-coach brother, Earl Maree, 19 years his senior, Jesse (now 17), was accepted last year to complete his Grade 11 and 12 at a school in the USA. He has now launched a Back-a-Buddy campaign to fundraise to help realise his dream.

In January 2020, Jesse participated in the College Connect International (CCI) Africa Showcase, a multi-country search for some of Africa's young and talented student-athletes looking to pursue an education in the US using their talent.

He was selected as one of the players from the showcase and given the opportunity to be a part of the coveted CCI Africa Team, featuring some of Africa's most talented young student-athletes. CCI linked him to the Putnam Science Academy in Connecticut, USA, and he enrolled in online school in 2020 through Putnam, after completing his Grade 10 at Hermanus High School.

Jesse is set to complete the second and final semester of Grade 11 at the end of this month. He has kept his

eye on the ball and has maintained above-average grades and continued to develop on the field. As a result, he was awarded a 95% scholarship to complete his high school career at Putnam Science Academy, a top private boarding school.

Funds raised on the Jesse Steyn Backa-Buddy page will be the start of his move to a top university, where he has set his sights on competing at the highest level of college soccer and earning a degree. Through the online fundraising campaign, Earl hopes to meet his goal of raising R175 000 to cover travel, visa, health insurance and tuition costs. He has raised about R30 000 so far, with a large chunk coming from another brother living in the UK. Jesse says: "My dream has always been to reach the highest level and to become the best I can be at soccer. I am truly grateful to have been selected as a student at Putnam Science Academy. Their soccer reputation is highly regarded."

Jesse's first-semester report for the current academic year describes him as an "outstanding student in the class", noting that "his kindness and maturity is greatly appreciated".

He received academic High Honours and was top of his class for the first semester, scoring four A's (including two A+s) for his four subjects, a good omen for his upcoming final year of school and prospects for further study

Hawston local Jesse Steyn (back left) was selected as one of the players given the opportunity to be a part of the coveted CCI Africa Team, featuring some of Africa's most talented young student-athletes. in the USA. Since he was a very young boy, Jesse has been mentored and coached on the soccer field by his brother Earl, a coach at and founder of the local soccer club, Vivo United Soccer Academy.

Jesse says: "I was four years old when my love for soccer started. My older brother always had a passion for soccer, and we started playing in our yard and on the street where we live. Earl taught me to kick equally well with both my left and right foot. He introduced me to the fun side of the game and we would play daily. He was my coach from the beginning and always challenged me."

Not surprisingly for someone so passionate about the sport, Jesse has already been coaching the young players at Vivo, which was founded

by Earl and his business partner and fellow coach, Falcon Sauvage, in 2017.

The club offers coaching four times a week to about 70 members aged 5 to

20 years, using the Generation Schools Hermanus astro-turf facility as their training ground.

"Twice a week I train with the seniors, and twice a week I train the juniors. My schoolwork keeps me very busy otherwise," says Jesse. "After completing school, I would love to study further in the USA in my second passion which is music: music production and sound engineering."

While Jesse had planned to leave for the USA last year and again earlier this year, "COVID pushed things back about three times", he says. If he can raise sufficient funds in time, he is hoping to leave in August 2021 to start his Grade 12 academic year in the USA the following month.

Jesse feels strongly about returning home, once he has completed his international sojourn, to give back to local communities in the Overberg.

He is also eyeing a position in the SA under-21 soccer team and his brother

feels adamant that he has what it takes to get there.

Says Jesse: "I am very inspired to acquire skills and return to South Africa to help with development. This is my home, this is where I grew up," he says of Hawston and the broader Hermanus community. "There are many communities in SA like Hawston, where I have seen so many kids ending up on the streets. Through soccer, we can prepare ourselves for life by learning fundamental skills, which we can apply in all areas of our lives, including discipline, responsibility and respect."

To help Jesse, a future young South African leader, reach his US goal, donations can be made via www. backabuddy.co.za/jesse-steyn For more information about the Vivo soccer club and to join, contact Earl Maree on 081 480 9312.

Vivo is also on Facebook: @vivounitedsocceracademy.

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 April 2021

MY WELLNESS

Collagen - The age-defying protein

By Lindi Prinsloo Refine Anti-ageing & Laser Clinic

T

here is a constant search for the magic potion to keep wrinkles at bay and to obtain a youthful, glowing skin. When it comes to anti-ageing and longevity, you cannot avoid the word ‘collagen’ from popping up into the conversation – and with good reason.

What is Collagen and why is it so important?

When I explain collagen to my clients, the easiest way is to tell them to think of the skin as a mattress.

As babies, our skin is nice and firm, plump and resilient. As we age, it becomes worn out, loses its resilience and basically starts to look and feel like an old boarding school mattress.

Collagen’s primary role is to add strength and support to all connective tissues that provide strength to the body – much in the same way as the steel rods used in the building of massive skyscrapers before concrete is cast over them to strengthen the building’s foundation.

When we are young, these fibrils are tight and strong, but as we age, our bodies produce less and less collagen, ultimately resulting in our skin not only becoming wrinkled and saggy, but our cartilages and tendons weakening as well.

Bone, cartilage, tendons and muscles are all examples of connective tissue rich in collagen and this just shows

presence of fine lines, wrinkles, reduced recoil capacity (sagging skin), increased fragility, and a change in skin pigmentation.

how important collagen is.

Collagen is ultimately what provides the support mattress to healthy skin. Maintaining healthy levels of collagen requires the removal of damaged collagen and replacing this with normal levels of healthy collagen. The way we encourage new healthy collagen is to stimulate fibroblasts.

Now this might seem quite scientific, but there are only a few factors to consider when looking at anti-ageing, and in a society where anyone can sell almost anything from the internet, it is important to keep these in mind. Beside collagen, fibroblast cells also produce hyaluronic acid and elastin.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) has become a common term, but did you know that HA is a molecule naturally found in your skin? HA holds water to keep the skin hydrated and plump, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, replenishing lost moisture, and acting as a lubricant for joints and other tissue. HA plus collagen equals ‘the dream team’.

Elastin supplies the skin with flexibility to stretch and makes it able to

Rewrite your skin’s history with these collagen stimulating tips: Boosting collagen internally bounce back (the coil of the mattress). When Elastin decreases, gravity kicks in.

Two types of ageing Intrinsic ageing happens naturally and for most in their mid-twenties, all the perks of adulthood are unfortunately accompanied by the loss and slowed production of collagen and elastin. We lose approximately 1,5% of our collagen per year from age 25.

Hydration through HA not only plumps up the skin, but also contains anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation in your skin limits your skin’s ability to repair damaged collagen, leading to visible signs of ageing.

Extrinsic ageing is the exposure to external factors such as pollution, UVA, UVB, visible light rays, smoking and facial expressions. Extrinsic ageing can be characterised as the

With so many products on the market it can get quite confusing to know what to use.

When considering a collagen supplement, it is important to pick one with the collagen in a hydrolysed form, meaning all proteins and peptides need to be hydrolysed to ensure good absorption in the gut and into the blood stream.

At Refine, an added benefit of the collagen supplements stocked is the addition of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, Co-enzyme Q10, Vitamin C and glutathione.

These additions make them potent youth elixirs.

A new product we are excited to announce is QMS Medicosmetics. QMS is a topical application of collagen with a superb delivery system to add to any home skincare regime.

Refine favourites: iSkin Super Collagen Powder and QMS Collagen

Intravital Plus Supplement Boosting collagen externally Collagen activation and stimulation treatments can be done to encourage as much removal of damaged skin components as possible, while optimally stimulating new healthy levels of collagen rebuilding in the skin. Below are a few treatments outlined.

Treatments to include into your collagen combatting plan: Dermapen4 is designed to create a safe healing response within the body to ignite natural collagen and elastin production from within the skin.

HIFU is a tightening procedure that applies high-intensity, focused ultrasound energy to deliver the energy into deeper layers of the skin in a non-invasive way.

Chemical Peels are used to create a controlled injury of a specific skin depth with the goal to stimulate new healthy skin, thus improving surface texture and appearance.

Fractionated Laser is the next level up from micro needling and is a combination of micro needling and radiofrequency.

Let’s plump up that mattress!

Book your QMS collagen boosting treatment in conjunction with a Dermapen for R1 900 (Save R450) or book a FREE consultation with one of Refine’s qualified therapists to get your collagen going.

#ALLOVEROVERSTRAND

28 April 2021

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LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

Sparklekids with healing hands Writer Hedda Mittner

U

ncle Theo” Krynauw and his wife, Angie, who have devoted the past decade to supporting young people in getting from a place of disadvantage to self-support, are proud of all their “Sparklekids”. Many of them have gone on to study at tertiary institutions and qualify as engineers, lawyers, nurses and teachers, while others have become entrepreneurs and opened their own businesses.

Two Sparklekids who hold a special place in the Krynauws’ hearts are Nyasha Boko and Thandi Kuka, who recently opened their own beauty salon, Organic Beauty. These two attractive young ladies have sparkling personalities, loads of talent and ambition – and the healing hands needed for a career in the beauty industry. Each of them also has quite a story to tell.

Thandi comes from an impoverished rural village in the Eastern Cape where she was brought up by her grandmother, before deciding at the age of 18 to come and live with her aunt in Zwelihle. She says at first she didn’t like living in the crowded township and immediately wanted to go home again, but she soon found a job helping a friend of her aunt’s who had a stall at Market Square. Theo just happened to be passing by one day when he noticed Thandi sitting on a crate and struck up a conversation.

Realising that here was someone with the potential to achieve more in life, Theo chatted to his friend, FC Hamman, who had just opened a massage salon called Driftwood in the Village Square. Thandi was employed and while receiving on-the-job training in massage therapy it soon became apparent that she had exceptional skills. “It came easy to me,” says Thandi, “maybe because I always used to massage my granny.”

Among Thandi’s clients was a German couple who was so impressed with her talent that they offered to help her study for a beauty qualification. So in 2016 Thandi went off to the Cape Nail & Beauty Academy for a full-time, one-year course which saw her graduating with an international diploma in beauty, nail technology and holistic massage.

While at the academy, she also learnt about the possibility of working on cruise ships when OneSpaWorld did a presentation. She immediately signed up and had to undergo a further three-week training course with OneSpaWorld, which operates spas, salons and fitness centres for several Nyasha and Thandi recently opened Organic Beauty in Westcliff. prestigious cruise lines.

While waiting for a placement Thandi worked part-time at The Marine’s Carchele Beauty Spa. When she was finally recruited for Anthem of the Seas, she says she was completely overwhelmed. She had never travelled before and here she was, boarding a plane for New York City all on her own, and from there she had to find her way to the cruise ship before sailing off to the Caribbean. Fortunately she took to her new life at sea like a duck to water, and over the next few years Thandi worked on three different cruise ships (on a nine-month contract each) before the pandemic brought it all to a screeching halt.

For now, while they are looking for premises in the CBD where they’ll be able to offer more services, these two friends are renting a room in a private home in Westcliff, and are focusing on massage therapy and pedicures. So if you are feeling a little stressed out (aren’t we all!) do yourself a favour and pop into Organic Beauty for anything from a 30 min back, neck & shoulder massage, to a 60 min full body deep-tissue or Swedish massage. Their premises are set in a tranquil garden and all Covid-19 safety protocols are followed. An added pleasure will be making the acquaintance of these two delightful young ladies.

“All through lockdown I’ve been waiting and waiting to get back,” she says, and then, at the beginning of this year, got the idea of opening a massage salon with Nyasha. At 23 years of age, Nyasha is five years younger than Thandi and came to Zwelihle from Zimbabwe as a young teenager in 2011. It was during her high school years at Qhayiya Secondary that she met “Uncle Theo” and he quickly identified her as a “sparklekid” who was not only performing well academically but also involved in sports and other extra-mural activities, including serving on the Junior Town Council.

To make an appointment, Nyasha can be reached on 062 843 9880. You can also call Thandi on 063 372 3644, although she could get the call to board a cruise ship at any moment now. We wish them both all the best for the future!

Nyasha’s favourite subjects were physical science and life sciences, and she had her heart set on studying hydrology engineering. However, because she is a Zimbabwean national, she couldn’t apply for study loans and had to set her sights a little lower. While she was accepted for nursing at CPUT, she decided to rather do the same diploma course as Thandi at the Cape Nail & Beauty Academy.

“Theo helped with the funding and accommodation, but then the lockdown came and I had to return to Hermanus. I went back to working at The Wine Glass, where I’d been waitressing since they first opened, and was finally able to complete my qualification in November 2020.”

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 April 2021

LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

Hermanus High theatre evening L

ast week, the senior drama students at Hermanus High School held a most entertaining theatre evening in the school hall. Numbers were limited due Covid-19 restrictions and the audience's chairs were spread apart.

The concert was presented in two parts. For part one, the audience was divided into four groups and led to several locations in the school where Grade 10 and 11 learners had set up four short scenes. Two Grade 10s performed an African story, whilst

three Grade 11s performed excerpts from realism plays (The Seagull, A Doll's House and Die See). The four groups of audience members were rotated between the short scenes, allowing each group to see all four of them, before being led back to the hall where the Grade 12 learners performed physical theatre.

In part two, the senior drama learners performed the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, which they adapted to an apocalyptic setting. The cast each made or decorated their own masks,

and their costumes were reflective of the end-of-the-world setting.

They also presented their play at the 'Shakespeare Schools Festival- South Africa'at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town last week.

Along with spectacular acting, the directors and crew made clever use of sound effects, lighting, props and video to create a truly memorable performance. Hermanus High School's theatre evenings are always a treat to look forward to.

– Taylum Meyer

The senior drama learners at Hermanus High School performed William Shakespeare's play, Hamlet, last week in the school hall. They also presented it at 'Shakespeare Schools Festival- South Africa' at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town. Above are Claudius (Vincent Woensdrecht), Polonius (Dezmae Izatt) and Gertrude (Mbali Banca).

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

In part one of the play, the audience was divided into four groups and led to several locations around the school where Grade 10 and 11 learners had set up four short scenes. Grade 11 Twané Botha (left) performed an excerpt from The Seagull, and Grade 11 Lucinda Luiz (right) performed an excerpt from A Doll's House.

Hamlet (Nathan Bloemaarts), kneels next to his mother Gertrude (Mbali Banca) who has died due to drinking poisoned wine after wilfully disobeying her husband, Claudius (Vincent Woensdrecht).

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#ALLOVEROVERSTRAND

28 April 2021

MY PET

It’s the small things that count

By Dr Hilldidge Beer

N

o matter how devoted we are to our pets, all pet owners want to avoid big vet bills.

One of the easiest ways to do that is to pay attention to the small things, from the day you take a new pet into your home until he or she is old and grey.

Consider the breed you’re adopting Many breeds are predisposed to certain illnesses and these can be costly to treat as the pet gets older. Brachycephalic dogs and cats with short noses and flat faces like bulldogs and Persian cats, struggle with respiratory issues; Yorkies are predisposed to heart ailments and Dachshunds often have spinal issues. Do your research and chat with your vet before you adopt so that you know what you’re in for.

1. Feed the right food If you want a pet that’s healthy and lives a long time, then his/her diet is one of the most important contributions you can make to health and longevity. The right balance of vitamins

and minerals will build strong bones and guard against a host of diseases including allergies and arthritis.

There are sound scientific reasons why puppies should be given specially-formulated puppy food and why ageing dogs need food targeted at seniors; the ingredients in these foods perform essential support functions for each life stage. Ask your EberVet Vetshop for recommendations.

2. Protect against parasites This is an easy one to forget, especially as the weather cools, but tick, flea and worm protection prevent a host of potentially deadly diseases like biliary and tapeworm. There are so many excellent parasite preventives on the market – some are long-acting too – so there’s really no excuse not to use them. And remember, fleas are active during winter too; in fact, they love moist weather so don’t skimp on the flea protection.

3. Exercise It’s fun to play with a puppy but as your dog gets older, walking him

every day sometimes feels like a bit of a chore. However, as with humans, exercise does help stave off illnesses like diabetes and arthritis. Make your pet your exercise buddy and enjoy your own health benefits from regular walks or swims. Dogs must be walked twice a day.

Don’t neglect your cats. We tend to think that cats are independent creatures who look after themselves but they too need the stimulation of play or they become lazy and overweight.

Excess weight can lead to diabetes and that’s one very expensive disease to treat.

4. Support the aged Senior cats and dogs suffer a host of ailments, including arthritis and kidney disease. Familiarise yourself with what these are and their symptoms.

Cats, in particular, are good at hiding pain and discomfort so unless you’re super vigilant they may already be in advanced stages of kidney failure before you realise it.

old bones, and keep his/her bed in a quiet place where there is less foot traffic. If your pet is struggling to jump on the bed or sofa, provide a small footstool or ladder to make it easier. Reduce the amount of exercise he or she gets every day, and opt for shorter, slower walks.

Support your pet’s ageing bones by providing bedding that’s gentler on

5. Don’t neglect vet checkups Annual checkups (bi-annual for

pets over the age of 7) are essential if you want to catch disease in the early stages. The earlier a problem is detected, the easier and cheaper it is to treat. This is probably the most important contribution you can make to your pet’s life.

Veterinarian Dr Hilldidge Beer is CEO of the EberVet Petcare Group and EberVet Vetshops, www.ebervet.com

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 April 2021

MY ENVIRONMENT

South African Paper Wasps – don’t reach for the Doom!

By Dr Anina Lee

The queen will lay all the eggs. The worker females are destined to be the workers – building the nest, hunting for food and minding the offspring.

The queen lays an egg in the bottom of each cell. When the larvae hatch, the babysitters’ job is to protect them, sometimes aggressively, and to feed them. Unlike the spider wasps that parasitise spiders and lay their eggs inside the paralysed prey, paper wasps catch caterpillars, chew them up and present the minced meat to the larvae.

M

y covered veranda is a favourite spot for paper wasps. Their nests are dotted around under the eaves hanging like little upside-down umbrellas, sheltered from wind and rain. They are good at spotting a good spot.

So in paper wasp society there is a division of labour – the older females procreate and the younger working-class females have to go out hunting to feed the kids. They prey on caterpillars, flies, beetle larvae, and add the odd spot of nectar. They forage during the day and rest at night.

Here in the Western Cape we have the paper wasp species Polistes marginalis. They are called paper wasps because their nests are made of something akin to paper. They chew up little bits of flaking wood and plant material and mix it with saliva. The resultant wood pulp is remarkably strong.

When the larvae are ready to pupate and thus stop eating, the workers construct a paper-like lid for each cell to protect the pupae until they hatch.

The most significant property of the wasp-produced paper is that it is hydrophobic and therefore waterproof. Research has shown that the nest paper is composed primarily of cellulose that is coated with a protein-rich oral secretion. In addition, the little fibrous stalk connecting the nest to the roof is coated with ant-repellent so that ants can’t prey on their larvae.

Paper wasps are social wasps. All the social wasps are gathered within the family Vespidae.

The social members of the Vespidae are generally divided into two groups: the Vespine wasps such as Yellow Jackets and Hornets; and the Polistine or Paper wasps.

The genus Polistes has a world-wide distribution and is the most common type of wasps in Europe and North America.

The European paper wasp Polistes dominula has now also migrated to South Africa, where it is in competition with our native Polistes marginalis. Sightings of this invasive species should be reported to CapeNature or Overstrand Environmental Services.

Paper wasps have an interesting lifestyle. The nests are usually founded by a single queen. A mated female from the parental nest emerges in spring and starts building the nest.

She becomes the queen and is soon joined by other mated females from the same nest to form a colony. The late-comers are relegated to the worker caste. After the queen has started construction of the first hexagonal cell of the nest, the worker females add more concentric circles of cells to enlarge it.

In temperate climates such as South Africa, the wasps don’t need to hibernate, but start the next cycle of life as soon as they emerge from the pupae.

The females take on their different caste roles. The males are not much use at hunting, so they are fed by the females until such time as they are needed to mate with and fertilise a female. Then they die.

If the queen dies, the most aggressive female will become the new queen and begin to lay her own eggs. In late summer or autumn, males, unmated females and the founding queen will all die. Mated females will go forth to form colonies of their own.

PHOTO: Tulsa World ABOVE: Polistes marginalis, found in the Western Cape, are called paper wasps because their nests are made of a wood pulp akin to paper. Our native paper wasp has a brown body with black and yellow stripes, brown legs and antennae.

The European paper wasp (below) has a black and yellow body, yellow legs and antennae. Sightings of these aliens should be reported to CapeNature or Overstrand Environmental Services.

PHOTO: iNaturalist

So if you see a paper wasp nest under the eaves, do not reach for the Doom. They are not aggressive and will not attack you.

They are keeping the ecosystem in your garden in equilibrium, by preying on insect larvae and aphids.

Aphids were for several years a big problem in my lemon tree.

They were farmed by ants who tickled them until they secreted a sweet ‘honeydew’. This production of sticky sweetness soon caused the growth of black fungus all over the tree. No amount of fungicide or ant poison helped – it only harmed the environment.

Lightbulb moment! Smear a ring of Vaseline around the trunk to stop ants going up the tree. Problem solved – no farmed aphids, so numbers are lower and perfectly managed by the wasps. Now I see my wasps buzzing around the lemon tree, inspecting every leaf for the first sign of aphids. My perfect biocontrol buddies. I love a well-balanced ecosystem!

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28 April 2021

MOTORING

F

on cars

Compiled by John Floyd

A gift unwrapped L

ife is complex. It has become more complex in recent months. Car buying has changed, car selling has changed. Consumer needs have changed.

Consumers have changed. The world is changing every second. Isn’t it time car makers change? GWM’s answer to this is we have changed, are changing and will continue to metamorphosize into a company that offers smart mobility solutions to the global market with cutting edge technology – which is being released outside of the borders of mainland China due to recent advances. Here’s the story.

Firstly, GWM internationally has adopted a new mentality towards innovation. Not just in terms of product innovation but innovative thinking and innovative approaches to the Customer and Research and Development, bringing the customer to the centre of the situation or making our mindset customer centric, we have expanded our approach from making the product the centre of the design and research process and we now look at the process from both perspectives.

We want to build cars that become more than just mobility devices, they will become man’s best friend, a family member, a protector and an extension of you.

This customer centric approach doesn’t come easily or instantly. Over the last year, GWM has been promoting our self-transformation with the concept of "user-centred" and accelerated our transformation into a "global mobility technology company".

The second way we feel we have kept our trajectory is we have focused on technology through R&D. GWM has invested heavily in a new platform to create greater depth of variant catering to a broader customer expectation. GWM R&D has led to industry leading tech in Hybrid technology, integrating autonomous driving, intelligent cabins, efficient fuel consumption, and alternate energy in terms of EV as well as Hydrogen Power laying a solid foundation for future development. In 2020, GWM totally invested 21.22% more YoY into R&D. By the end of 2020, GWM had an R&D team of more than 19,000 persons, which accounts for over 30% of the

total number of employees of the Company.

What does all the above mean to South Africa?

HMSA through GWM’s Global support will carry a greater understanding for our consumers’ needs bringing vehicles with high tech smart solutions that you need in everyday life, for every scenario or lifestyle that you may live while you drive, or not. That is why we bring you Haval Motor South Africa’s latest offering, JOLION. The all new Haval JOLION is the brainchild of many hours of this relentless research and development and its quite easy to see why the name plate JOLION which means “First Love” was chosen for this young beauty. At first glance the futuristic expressive design catches your eye. As a Phil Simmonds design you can see the artistic fashionable statement the overall look makes which is further accentuated by the front and rear LED Vison tail lamps extending into the styling lines giving JOLION a sporty yet elegant look whilst keeping a wide body stance.

The Split Design Day time running lamps add to the futuristic appeal.

Chrome finished accents from the diffuser to the branded side garnish add to the overall elegance.

The interior feel is premium and sporty, a combination rarely felt in small to mid-sized SUVs. Every element, much like that of a fighter pilots’ cockpit, is ergonomically interconnected and easily with reach of the driver.

There’s even a place under the gear shifter for your handbag if you’re a lady. The attention to detail inside the cabin is class leading with soft touch materials and personalized Haval branding welcoming you everywhere while white stitching on the steering wheel, the dash and luxurious seats extends the feeling of opulence and elegance. The feeling of space is what’s most astounding when entering the vehicle but what catches your eye most is the high level of technology packed into the vehicle.

Today’s Urban lifestyle demands we embrace technology like never before and so does JOLION. The centre console houses a beautiful and innovative Rotary Dial shifter in Auto models. This progressive design saves space in the

cabin but also adds to this new need urban lifestyle technology era. This together with the Electronic parking brake, wireless charging station, floating 12.3” infotainment and smart touch panel and to the harmonious cabin ergonomics.

Looking into the dash, the Virtual Instrument Cluster has three visual modes personalising the driver experience while the Heads-up display shows your relevant speed and driver assist information whilst keeping your eyes safely on the road ahead. Push button starting is standard as well as keyless entry is standard fitment across the range. To stay connected, JOLION also features charging ports for driver and front passenger as well as for two rear passengers. If travel is your thing, JOLION is for you with a boot space of 33L of luggage space when the seats are up and 1133L when down in a 60:40 split configuration. Whether you want a fuel saving eco warrior or an adrenaline fuelled sport mode, there’s a mode for every mood.

Safety is always our number one priority and JOLION answers the need perfectly. JOLION features EPB, Cruise Control, Dual and Front airbags, Child locks, ABS and EBD as well as electronic stability control and traction control.

Anti-Roll, Secondary Collision Mitigation, Hill assist, Tyre pressure monitoring system, rear park sensors and blue tooth, these features aren’t optional, they are standard on all variants.

As always Haval has left it all out there in terms of specifications. JOLION comes in 5 variants namely Manual transmission City model and Luxury while the seven speed DCT auto will have the city, Luxury and super luxury versions in 6 colour option.

• HAVAL JOLION 1,5T MT 2WD CITY R299 900 • HAVAL JOLION 1,5T MT 2WD LUXURY R332 900 • HAVAL JOLION 1,5T 7DCT 2WD PREMIUM R339 900 • HAVAL JOLION 1,5T 7DCT 2WD LUXURY R367 900 • HAVAL JOLION 1,5T 7DCT 2WD SUPER LUXURY R398 900

5YR 100 000KM WARRANTY 5YR 60 000KM SERVICE PLAN

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20

THE VILLAGE NEWS

New Maserati Levante Hybrid T

he Maserati Levante Hybrid is presented to the world in both a physical and digital World Premiere event. In fact, the dual nature of Maserati is shown at the Shanghai Auto Show for its live presentation, and, for the rest of the world, in a virtual launch event on the brand’s website (houseof.maserati.com).

With the Brand’s first electrified SUV, Maserati takes a major step forward in its strategy for electrification, which began last year with the Ghibli Hybrid.

“Faster. Greener. Unique”, Levante Hybrid is faster than a diesel, more sustainable than diesel or gasoline, and unique in its specific characteristics.

The Maserati SUV, which has already made an impact in the history of the Brand with its record-breaking figures, now presses ahead into a future in which all new Trident models will be electrified.

Maserati is innovative by nature, and with Levante it pursues the philosophy behind its entry into the world of electrification: the aim of improving performance while staying true to the Brand’s values, delivering speed and agility while saving fuel and reinforcing the Trident’s dedication to driving pleasure and luxury. The result is a hybrid SUV that retains the distinctive roar of every Maserati.

Levante Hybrid combines the 4-cylinder, 2 litre engine with a 48 volt Hybrid system to recover energy during deceleration and braking.

The hybrid car weighs less than the 6-cylinder engine equivalent (both diesel and gasoline), and above all has an even better weight distribution since the battery is placed in the rear without compromising the load capacity and optimally balancing the masses of the vehicle. All designed to make Levante Hybrid even more agile and fun to drive.

Thanks to a maximum power output of 330 hp and torque of 450 Nm delivered from just 2,250 rpm, the performance data of the new Levante Hybrid, only available with all-wheel drive, is impressive: a top speed of over 240 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds.

In terms of appearance, the Levante Hybrid launch version is characterised by a new metallic tri-coat colour called Azzurro Astro, available as part of the Brand’s customisation programme, Maserati Fuoriserie.

Other exterior and interior details contribute to this car’s immediately recognisable design: some are in blue, the shade chosen to identify hybrid cars, already used by Maserati on Ghibli Hybrid. On the exterior, blue characterises the three iconic side air ducts, the brake callipers and the C-pillar logo. The same blue shade reappears inside the car, specifically on the embroidered seams of the seats.

Levante Hybrid is connected, thanks to the new Maserati Connect program.

Having your Maserati connected at all times enables an eye to be kept on the car's health, and Maserati Connect will alert the driver when a service is due, improving the customer care experience.

With a Smartphone or Smartwatch, drivers can stay in contact with their car via the Maserati Connect App; this is also possible from home via their virtual personal assistant (Amazon Alexa & Google Assist).

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS LEVANTE HYBRID ENGINE • Layout: L4 Mild Hybrid with eBooster and 48V BSG • Displacement (cc): 1995 • Bore x Stroke (mm): 84 x 90 • Compression ratio: 9.5:1

• Maximum Power (hp @ rpm): 330 @ 5750 (246 kW) • Peak torque (Nm @ rpm): 450 @ 2250 • Fuel injection: Gasoline Direct Injection GDI • Injection pressure (bar): 200 • Induction: 1 Mono-scroll turbocharger 1 eBooster 48 V • Crankshaft: Forged steel • Lubrication: Variable displacement oil pump • Timing system: 1 chain-drive overhead camshaft with Multiair PERFORMANCE • Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (s): 6.0 • Top speed: >240 • Braking distance from 100 to 0 km/h (m): 36 FUEL CONSUMPTION AND CO2 EMISSIONS • WLTP combined cycle (l/100 km): TBC *Pending current certification • WLTP combined cycle (g/km): 231252 TRANSMISSION • Gearbox: ZF eight-speed automatic • Gear ratios: 1st: 5; 2nd: 3.2; 3rd: 2.14; 4th: 1.72; 5th: 1.31; 6th: 1.00; 7th: 0.82; 8th: 0.64; Reverse: 3.46; final: 3.27 • Transmission: All-wheel drive with limited slip self-locking mechanical rear differential SUSPENSION • Front: Double-wishbone, anti-roll bar • Rear: Multi-link, anti-roll bar BRAKES • Front: Ventilated discs 345x32 mm, 2-piston floating calipers • Rear: Ventilated discs 330x22 mm, 1-piston floating calipers DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS • Front/rear tyres: 265/50 R19 • L x D x H (mm): 5005 x 1981 x 1693 • Wheelbase (mm): 3004 • Front/rear track (mm): 1631 / 1662 • Luggage capacity (l): 580 • Fuel tank capacity (l): 80 • Homologated weight (kg): 2090

28 April 2021

#ALLOVEROVERSTRAND

28 April 2021

The MG Cyberster – First official pictures released J

ust days after revealing design renderings, MG has released the first official photographs of its Cyberster concept car, which will be making its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show later this month.

The Cyberster - developed by the team at the MG Advanced Design Centre in London – is a two-door, two-seater sports car recalling the brand’s tradition, drawing a number of styling cues from the classic MGB Roadster while also ushering in new high-tech features, including an interactive gaming cockpit and 5G connectivity.

The Cyberster’s intelligent all-electric architecture will enable an approximate EV range of 800km (500 miles) and deliver a 0-100km/h time (0-62mph) of less than three seconds, while the body is designed to enhance aerodynamic performance, the classi-

cally shaped MG grille also serving as an air duct to ensure airflow over the car’s chassis.

It features classic round MG headlights, coupled with a slim grille design, along with interactive ‘Magic Eye’ headlights that open when switched on.

Other striking details of the MG Cyberster are the 'laser belt' LED strip down the side of the car and the outline of the door, which follows the direction of the LED strip.

Its powerful sports car profile has a distinct two-stage shoulder line, with a flattened ‘kamm tail’ rear, accentuated by unusual ‘hacker blade’ alloy wheels.

The tail lamps are of LED construction and are integrated flat into the rear of the car, projecting a digital image that echoes MG’s British heritage.

The "digital fibre" interior design

theme adopts a driver-centric layout, with a separated cockpit for driver and passenger and a large-sized LED instrument cluster with a second central screen. The screen ahead of the driver presents all of the key vehicle information in a modern nut minimalist style, while the central display houses its more interactive features.

MG’s ‘Zero Gravity’ seats have floating head restraints, while the door panels and red leather handles reflect the ‘laser belt’ that runs down the car’s exterior.

Carl Gotham, Director of SAIC Design Advanced London, said: “The Cyberster is a bold statement that looks strongly into MG’s future, touching on our heritage but more importantly building on our technology and advanced design.

“Cyberster is a hugely exciting concept for us.”

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22

THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 April 2021

New look, more features for Swift T

he Suzuki Swift, South Africa’s top award-winning Budget Car of the Year, has a fresh, new look and extra specifications to boot.

The current generation Suzuki Swift was introduced in South Africa in 2018 and has since become a best-seller here, as it is abroad.

Along the way, it has notched up Car of the Year nominations and awards in Europe, Japan and South Africa. With the update, it is set to grow even more popular.

A fresh, new face For its mid-life upgrade, Suzuki designers have decided to retain the overall visual signature with only minor refreshments to the Swift’s familiar face.

The new model features a distinctive chrome line that divides the grille into a section with the large Suzuki emblem and a lower section that holds the front number plate.

The grille itself has a more distinctive mesh pattern that emphasises the sporty nature, and the GL and GLX models are fitted with front fog lights.

Speaking of the different model upgrades, the entry-level GA model now has new, full wheel covers and rear parking sensors as standard. Step up to the GL and there are also new rear parking sensors and the option of new dual-tone colour schemes.

will be added across all Swift models and will be added to the already-standard list of safety equipment, which includes SRS front and passenger airbags, ABS-brakes with emergency brake assistance (BA) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

The range-topping GLX also adds a high-resolution reverse camera that displays its image on the touch screen infotainment system. On the GLX, you can specify any of the tone-colour options and you receive attractive, new 15-inch polished alloy wheels.

All models are also equipped with ISOFIX anchor points for child restraint systems, central locking, safety belts fitted with pre-tensioners and force limiters, and an immobiliser and alarm system.

Safety and security upgraded Inside the Swift, Suzuki has placed an emphasis on vehicle safety and security. For instance, all Automated Manual Models (AMTs) now receive Hill Hold Assist as standard, and GA-specification models get a free parcel shelf to hide luggage from prying eyes.

Buyers who upgrade to the GL specification will also notice an additional light in the luggage bay.

The most significant addition to the Swift range is Electronic Stability Control (ESP). This valuable safety feature

night Blue Pearl with a White roof and Arctic White Pearl with a Black roof.

HEARTECT and K12M inside At the heart of the Swift’s winning recipe is the combination of the lightweight and rigid HEARTECT platform as well as the free-revving and frugal K12M petrol engine.

New colour palette With the popularity of dual-tone colour options on models such as the new Vitara Brezza, Suzuki has agreed to also offer these on the Swift range.

The HEARTECT platform uses Suzuki’s proprietary Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) design to create an ultra-rigid platform that is much lighter than similar-sized vehicles from other manufacturers. This not only makes the Swift one of the safest vehicles in its class, but it creates the ideal platform for the K12M four-cylinder petrol engine to shine.

The standard colour palette will include Fire Red, Midnight Blue Pearl, Lucent Orange Metallic, Arctic White Pearl, Silky Silver Metallic, Magma Grey Metallic and now also Midnight Black Pearl.

The Suzuki K12M-engine uses variable valve technology to deliver 61 kW at 6 000 rpm and 112 Nm at 4 200 rpm.

The highly efficient engine is rated to consume only 4.9 litres per 100 km in a combined testing cycle.

Buyers of the GL and GLX specifications will further have the option of three unique dual-tone colours. These are Fire Red with a Black roof, Mid-

Jam-packed with features Following the range upgrade, the Swift can rightly claim to be one of the best specced vehicles in its class.

All models feature electric windows, air conditioning and central locking, with the GL models adding fog lamps, an audio system with USB and AUX inputs, a tachometer and electrically adjustable mirrors.

The GLX models replace the standard air conditioning with climate control, add keyless access with a Start/Stop button and replace the 14” wheels with polished 15” alloys.

In addition, the GLX has also added electric folding side mirrors. This model, in manual or AMT, also has Suzuki’s high-resolution colour touch screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a reverse camera.

Every Suzuki Swift is sold with a 2-year / 30 000 km service plan and a 5-year / 200 000 km promotional warranty.

The MY2021 range consists of the following models: · 1.2 GA Manual · 1.2 GL Manual · 1.2 GL AMT · 1.2 GLX Manual · 1.2 GLX AMT

#ALLOVEROVERSTRAND

28 April 2021

Toyota Prius - Added tech, safety and functionality for Hybrid Icon T

he Toyota Prius needs no introduction, now in its 4th-generation, it continues to serve as Toyota’s Hybrid icon and pioneer.

Combining unique, futuristic styling with a practical five-door layout, TNGA platform and 1.8-litre Hybrid powertrain – the Prius certainly stands out in a crowd.

Android Auto, while also benefitting from a higher-resolution display.

The core USB, Aux and Bluetooth functionality remains - while playing through a high-quality six-speaker setup. Toyota Connect is fitted as standard – offering in-car Wi-Fi connectivity with a complimentary 15Gb of data – and telematics interface with the MyToyota app.

Safety Systems

High-grade Hues

For 2021, the Prius has been outfitted with some notable upgrades and enhancements to align with other premium Toyota models.

As before, eight exterior colours are on offer, while Pearl White has been replaced by the new Platinum White Pearl - promising even more lustre.

A black leather interior provides a sense of luxury and practicality.

Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) has been adopted, bringing with it an array of safety aids in the form of a PreCrash System (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Automatic High Beam (AHB), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) plus Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Lane Trace Assist (LTA).

The Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Monitor functions can be reached quickly via dedicated steering switches – allowing the driver to activate/de-activate and adjust sensitivity levels.

The obligatory ABS, EBD, Brake Assist and VSC functions are included too.

Informed and In-touch On the interior front, the touchscreen infotainment system has been updated to include Apple CarPlay and

Spec & Tech The Prius offers buyers a comprehensive spec level. Some of the standout features include; Heads-Up Display (HUD), Reverse Camera, high-definition Multi-Information Display, seat heaters with electric lumbar support and wireless (cellphone) charging.

Dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror ramp up the convenience quotient.

While Smart Entry and auto-retractable exterior mirrors are joined by LED head-, fog- and DRL-lamps on the outside.

Powertrain

The proven 1.8-litre Hybrid powertrain continues unaltered – combining an electric motor with Toyota’s 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle 2ZR-FXE engine for a total system output of 90 kW. A dedicated EV-mode enables the vehicle to operate under full-electric power. The Prius is classified as a Full Hybrid (FHEV) and uses a self-charging powertrain to provide electric energy.

During deceleration or braking, regenerative energy is captured and stored in the battery. As such, the Prius can operate solely on either the petrol engine, the electric motor, or a combination of the two - if so required.

The petrol engine in turn is capable of directly charging the battery pack in the absence of regenerative braking (in standstill traffic for example).

Power is transmitted to the front wheels via an integrated CVT transmission.

Model Line-up and Pricing Prius 1.8 - R566 400 Peace of Mind • Service Plan: 6 Services / 90,000km • Service Interval: 12 Months / 15,000km • Warranty: 3 Years / 100,000km • Hybrid Battery Warranty: 8 Years / 195,000km

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