Irene Town Crier Feb/Mar 18

Irene Town CRIER Living in peace

Feb/Mar 2018

Sylvia Gibbons

P R O P E R T I E S

Sylvia Gibbons, 082 374 4778 gibbons@netactive.co.za

Glenda Saxby, 076 316 9632 glenda@netactive.co.za

www.sylviagibbonsproperties.co.za

Passionate about Irene property and proud supporters of the ILA

Greenfields

lawn services glenda@netactive.co.za

Glenda Saxby, 076 316 9632

Your neighbourhood lawn specialist Carroll Townsend, 082 560 9423

Frans Jordaan 082 668 2431

townca@telkomsa.net

GROW A GREENER, HEALTHIER LAWN

We visit your lawn 4 times a year, once every season and apply our magic blends of fertilizers and the agents to control weeds, insects and diseases for the best looking lawn in town.

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CONTENTS Living in peace 4 Condolences 6 St Martin’s-in-the-Fields 8 ILA report 12 Festive display 15 A magical abode 16 Indigenous flowers

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SPCA Fundraiser 21 Small businesses 26 Small cries 28 Important telephone numbers 30 Front cover photo: Lisle Caromba

Deadline for the April 2018 issue of Irene Town Crier is 6 April 2018.

Advertising and editorial contact: Tracey Garde 082 460 6007 or info@tlgpublishing.co.za Irene Town Crier is published by TLG Publishing (Pty) Ltd. All material is subject to copyright and permission to reproduce may be obtained from the publisher.

Editorial contributions are welcome and can be sent to the publisher. All rights in said editorial contributions, whether it be in the form of a letter or article and whether it includes graphics or not, will be treated as unconditionally assigned for the publication and copyright purposes and material will be subject to TLG Publishing’s unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. TLG Publishing will place editorial contributions at it’s own discretion, space allowing.

Town Crier Feb/Mar 2018

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LIVING IN Peace

Mother Nature has given us quite the start to the year with stunning sunsets, ‘bubble clouds’ and spectacular afternoon Highveld thunder storms! Our cover photo is taken from the stoep of a home in Irene - proof, once again, that we live in the most beautiful village.

The year is in full swing and December holidays are long forgotten but our ILA continues to work hard throughout the year to ensure that our village remains safe for all to enjoy. Their upcoming AGM is a date to diarise as all residents and home owners are urged to attend. Here you will learn more of the ‘behind the scenes’ efforts that go in to ensuring Irene is a sought after haven that it’s become known to be.

ILA AGM 9 May 2018 Irene Primary School Hall 7:30pm

A little bit of history in our St Martin’sin-the-Fields editorial and No 5 The Oval gives perspective on how Irene has grown over the years. It’s wonderful to know that the village has such deep roots and there are many families still living here today who continue to nuture its heritage. All the while, making their own memories that will be appreciated in years to come.

A lovely look at more indigenous flowers happily growing in our surrounds and an editorial explaining the many groups of people engaged with their phones that we see on the streets of Irene (Pokémon Go is a popular pastime), this issue is filled with local love.

We look forward to many more village filled Irene Town Crier’s this year.

Remember to email info@tlgpublishing.co.za should you have any news/events or interesting info that you’d like to share.

Upcoming charity events such as the Irene Homes Garden Fete and the SPCA Fundraiser are both featured in Till next month this issue as we know the people of our village love to give back. Be sure to pop in to both - you never know what treasures you might find!

Tracey

Like our Facebook page: Irene Town Crier Visit www.destinationirene-centurion.co.za.

Town Crier Feb/Mar 2018

Help support your local Charity

1 May

Irene Homes

Garden

FETE Breakfast Tea Garden Beer Garden Food Stalls Arts & Crafts Entertainment

9h00 - 14h00

n u F f o s t o l Join us for

Arnold Road Entrance, Irene 012 667 1035

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CONDOLENCES IN MEMORIUM ALLEN BRUCE WALLIS 2 October 1976 to 9 December 2017

Allen moved to Irene with his family at the age of 6 months. As he grew up he attended Irene Nursery School, and Irene Primary School. He loved Mini Hockey and Scouting (9th Irene Air Scouts). He attended Littleton Manor High School, achieving Dux Scholar in his Matric year (1994). He went on to graduate from Wits with a BSc (Electrical Engineering) and achieved a Masters degree at UCT, also in electrical engineering.

He met Taryn in Cape Town and they were married in 2002 and lived in Lakeside, Cape Town until they emigrated to Scotland in March 2007, where he worked in the IT coding/programming field in Edinburgh. Allen and Taryn settled in the village of Pencaitland, East Lothian, within a few miles of the village of Ormiston

EDDIE LENSEN

where his Grandfather Bert Cairns was raised before he emigrated to South Africa, to eventually settle in Irene with Allen’s Grandmother, Mickey Cairns.

Allen was diagnosed with lung cancer in April 2014. Supported fully by Taryn, they both struggled bravely for three years before he passed away on 9 December 2017.

Sadly missed by his wife Taryn, parents Bryan and Kathleen, sister Bronwyn and her family Vincent, Aine and Tadhg, brother Stuart and Natalie.

It was a long and brave fight, Allen and you remain a credit to us all. You kept your sense of humour all the while.

We all love and miss you.

It is with great sadness that we heard of the death of Eddie Lensen who lived with his wife, Diana, and daughter, Robyn, in Stanhope Road for 28 years.

They moved to Somerset West 5 years ago and Robyn still resides in Irene. Ed was heavily involved with the restoration of the Irene Hall, Guide Hut roof, his daughter’s school activities and the ongoing maintenance of their beautiful home. He will be sorely missed by his family and many friends.

GARANKUWA HOSPITAL CHRISTMAS 2017 A heartfelt thanks to the people of Irene Village for once again donating so generously to our Garankuwa Hospital Christmas toy drive.

Barbara Tanton

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A Brief History of

St Martin-in-the-Fields, Irene

The history of the habitation of the Irene area goes back to the early 1800s, when the amaNdebele and BaKwena people (people of the crocodile) lived nearby. In 1825, Mzilikazi (whose people were known as the Matabele) moved in and killed many of the BaKwena people and drove the rest away. In 1841, Daniël Erasmus bought the Doornkloof farm, and in 1889 two of his

sons sold part of it to Alois Nellmapius, who named it ‘Irene Estate’ after his daughter. In 1895, Bertie (Albertus) Van der Byl bought the Estate – his descendants continue to live in the area and own the Irene Farm.

The South African War (or Anglo-Boer War) broke out in 1899. In 1900 the Irene

9 concentration camp was built, and a second camp opened in 1902. A hospital and school (Irene Primary School) were built to support the women, children and older Boer families living there. (More than 1,200 people, most of them children, died at the Irene Camp.) In 1902, Bertie proclaimed Irene a township/suburb and 337 stands were surveyed. A golf course was built, setting up a tradition in the area that has continued to today.

Somewhere at the turn of the century, Anglicans began to worship in the area.

In 1907, Archdeacon Sidwell was living in Irene, but there was no church; he said, “Service is conducted in an outbuilding.”

The parish included 50 orphans (thought to be from the concentration camp) and 30 school girls (from a school in Pioneer Road). In 1908, the Anglican Sisters of St Mary the Virgin arrived from England and started the Irene Homes to care for women and girls who were abandoned or in trouble. In 1912, the Holy Cross chapel was opened at the convent at Irene Homes, and services were held there. Plans to build a church continued, but were interrupted by the first World War. In 1921, the chapel was expanded, but conditions there were not ideal for the Anglican community; the first Sisters had very strict and intimidating rules about silence and decorum.

In 1921, Bertie Van der Byl donated the land on which the church now stands, and plans were made for the building of a church. Bishop Talbot laid the foundation stone on 5 January 1924 (still embedded

in the outer wall of the sanctuary) and the first service was held on Easter Sunday, 20 April 1924. The church was aptly named St Martin-in-the-Fields, as the church really did stand in naked veld. The closest structure was the reservoir, which stood on the site of what is now the scout hall. There were little more than gravel paths leading to the church. The church initially comprised the current sanctuary and vestry, and three rows of pews, with capacity for 60 people. The entrance to the church was in the back (west) wall.

Sometime later, the church was extended westwards to approximately the current length. The church bell was installed above the vestry – the base of the bell tower can still be seen from the outside of the vestry.

The bell, which was first cast in 1847, was recast in 1935; its inscription reads: “St Martin’s Irene – Endure hardness as a good soldier of Christ”.

Clergy initially lived in a house on 14(b) King Street (from 1924-1939). The church flourished and purchased a tiny house as rectory at 12 Queen Street, which served until 1961. In 1948, the Van der Byl family donated the plot opposite the church on King Street to the church, on condition that it be used for a rectory, and for gardens or parking. The current rectory was built around 1961 and has served as the parish rectory to date.

In 1962, the church was again extended, with the additions of the Lady Chapel (on the north-west end) and a foyer (on the

10 south-west end), and the entrance was relocated from the back to the side, where it now is. The organ and choir relocated to the back of the church, where they have steadfastly remained until today, despite periodic promptings to move to the front of the church. In 1972, the church hall was built, paid for with scones according to a long-standing member of the parish. In the mid-1970s, the bell was removed from above the vestry, because children repeatedly climbed onto the vestry roof and played with the bell, causing damage to both bell and roof. The son of Mrs Theodora Mehliss, a missionary who was also active at St Martins and Irene Homes, built the bell tower in honour of his mother. The bell and its tower have been incorporated into the branding of the parish. The most recent addition to the church property was the building of the ministry building and ablution block along the western boundary in 2014.

The church has had 17 rectors over the years, with appointments ranging from one to nine years: 1.

1924-29 – Phillip Kynaston 2.

1929-34 – Arnold Pierce-Jones 3.

1935-37 – Edmund Dawson 4.

1937-38 – Malcolm Buchannan 5.

1938-41 – Charles Field 6.

1941-58 – Bill Lewin 7.

1958-61 – Ian Carrick 8.

1962-71 – Ashley Longbotham 9.

1972-76 – Arthur Hill 10.

1982-90 – Bob Harris 11.

1991 – Anthony Mdletshe 12.

1992-98 – Les Walker 13.

1999-2001 – John Streak 2002-05 – The church was without a rector

over this period. Deacon Sheila Cave was the lead clergy person overseeing the parish.

14.

2006-09 – Allan Kannemeyer 15.

2010 – Ben Moleko 16.

2011-17 – Aaron Chituta 17.

2017- – Siphiwo Bam The present parish of St Martin-in-theFields walks in the footsteps of over a century of Anglican worshippers in this community, who themselves have walked in the footsteps of Bishop Martin of Tours: seeking to know Christ more fully and to serve him more authentically.

Written by Adrian van Breda, based on a talk presented at the Patronal Festival on 12 November 2017 Sources: Coetzee & Miller. 2001. An Archaeological Investigation of the Irene Rural Residential Development, Irene, Centurion District, Pretoria, Gauteng.

Helme, N. 1976. Irene.

Irene Farm. The history of the Irene dairy farm. http://www.irenefarm.co.za/faq/history/ Irene Homes. Abous us. https://www.irenehomes.co.za/about Lensen, D. 2007. Dear Irene.

Mitchell, Isabelle (b. ~1939), lived in Irene from about 1945 to about 1997 (52 years).

Mustard Seed issues 2010, 2011.

Wikipedia. Irene, Gauteng.

This is not a complete history. Anyone wishing to make corrections or additions is invited to contact Adrian at advanbreda@gmail.com

Wednesday

7 March 2018 from 08:00 to 12:00

Come and experience our School in Action!

Dear ILA Members & IRENE RESIDENTS

There are definitely signs of autumn in the air! Chilly evenings and the promise of beautiful autumn hues gracing our village. ENJOY this special time of year!

Holiday contacts Please note that when going away holiday contacts should be sent at least 48hrs in advance to: ilamanager@irene.co.za with a copy to: elsie@ebssecurity.co.za.

Mails received on the day of departure or on a Friday may not be captured until the next day or on the Monday, which could be problematic should something happen. The Control Room staff is not permitted to take messages over the phone or access the system to make changes.

up! We strongly feel that we cannot expect EBS to look after lost dogs.

In future, unless a carer can be found immediately, lost dogs will be taken to the SPCA. The cost of release is R150 per day or part thereof.

Please note that if we do find a carer in Irene, a donation of R150 will be requested for the SPCA, Lyttelton branch. This is a small price to pay for the effort that goes in to (a) finding a willing carer, (b) looking after your dog - often overnight and (c) not having to fetch it from the SPCA. Our local SPCA receives no government funding and depends on donations from the public.

Every effort should be made to please secure driveways so that dogs do not escape.

Lost dogs

Water restrictions

As many of you are aware, we are unable to care for dogs at The Oval.

Dogs brought to The Oval have had to be locked in a tiny storeroom to prevent them from escaping. They often mess in that room and EBS have to then clean

Sprinkler systems are still seen running during the heat of the day! Please note new Tshwane water restrictions in this issue - watering is not permitted between 06:00 and 16:00.

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Please use water sparingly and only water gardens when absolutely necessary. Gardeners should be advised accordingly. Tshwane advises the use of grey water to water gardens and to flush toilets - not municipal drinking water.

Safety We have so many beautiful sidewalks in Irene! Whilst it is appreciated that residents want to protect them, please be reminded that it is not permitted to block the curb with any obstruction that prevents a vehicle taking evasive action in order to prevent an accident.

Our sloping curbs are designed to allow vehicles to mount the curb in an emergency.

Let’s also make Irene SAFER for our walkers - please don’t block the end of a sidewalk with rocks or poles that can trip people up. A 1.3m wide solid path, half a meter from the curb would be most welcome - these are the measurements laid down by City Planning. Please avoid gravel and spaced pavers - they are not very pedestrian-friendly and are

unsuitable for the disabled, moms with prams and young children on bicycles.

ILA AGM The ILA AGM has been provisionally booked for Wednesday, 9 May 2018 at Irene Primary School Hall, at 7.30pm.

Please save the date!

Formal notice will be sent out in early April 2018 but the meeting is open to ALL residents. Come and meet the team, find out what we do and join us in our quest to further improve the security of our beloved Irene!

We look forward to a positive year ahead as the ILA works hard to ensure that Irene remains the secure, peaceful and beautiful village that we all love to enjoy living in.

Kind regards

Your ILA

IRENE ASSOCIATION PO BOX 1 IRENE 0062

Notice is hereby given of the Annual General Meeting of the Irene Association.

It will be held on Tuesday 8 May 2018 at 18:00 at 19 Bruce Road Irene.

Kind Regards Barbara Tanton Chairperson • Felling and Pruning of Trees.

• Stump Removals.

• Site Clearing.

• Supply and Planting of Indigenous Trees.

• Braai And Firewood.

• Fully Insured.

• Free Quotations.

• 9 Years Experience.

For a comprehensive and obligation free quote, please contact Hannes:

073 207 8572 012 660 2617

hannes@envirotreefelling.co.za www.envirotreefelling.co.za

March Issue 2016 | Irene Town Crier

R100 off your next treatment at Sorbet Jean Crossing 012 664 0819 | Jean Crossing Centre, Corner Rabie Street & Jean Avenue, Centurion Ts & Cs apply. Present this voucher to redeem discount.

Valid at Sorbet Jean Crossing only. Expires 30 April 2018. @sorbetjeancrossing

FESTIVE DISPLAY

Over the past few years the Walker’s, in Krige Lane, have draped the frontage of their house with printed festive graphics.

The garage offers a glimpse into the reindeer stable, complete with sleigh and Santa Claus (Nigel), whilst looking through the kitchen window Mrs Claus (Di) can be seen preparing Christmas treats.

Outside the snow lays thick throughout the wooden hillside.

The pictures have been ‘photoshopped’ to depict family visitors, grandchildren as well as Di and Nigel Walker.

A MAGICAL ABODE... no 5 the oval

I’ve just been on a tour around a magical house: no. 5 The Oval - which until recently, was leased to the Little Oak Montessori School. What an absolutely charming, intriguing, old world property this is, complete with thatched roof, wooden parquet floors, huge fireplaces, semi-concealed, oddshaped little hideaways, lofts up high in the ceilings and unexpected little rooms and stoeps.

The house dates from the 1940s but was home to Viva and Joe Ball and their five children: Jarvis, Jocelyn, Mary (now Roebuck), Jarrod and Jane (now Slater) from 1954. It was a child’s paradise – as was the whole of Irene in those days! The children had free run of Irene with instructions to “be back before dark” from their parents.

When little, they would spend hours looking for “crystals” (bits of white chert) and other artefacts on what is now the Oval, which in those days was rough veld, surrounded by a dirt road which filled with puddles after the rain. Also in those days, the Hennops River was enchanted and unpolluted, and the children would catch fish, play in home-built tin canoes, dive for golf balls off the “island” and swim down the river wearing flippers when it was in flood.

In those days, the Scout Hall in King Street was a derelict old reservoir

and the tall adjacent structure had no roof or doors. The old reservoir was a great place for children to climb, hide and have fun (rumour has it that the previous generation also had fun there and that the well-remembered Miller twins of Irene used to skinny-dip in the old reservoir!). The Irene Film Studio (now Southern Implants) was likewise a good place to play, with its attached little farm, housing live ‘props’, including llamas, zebras and horses. The horses, which needed exercise, were ridden legally at the cost of a shilling for the afternoon, whereas the lamas and zebras were ridden illegally, sometimes with interesting consequences.

No. 5 The Oval was one of about six houses situated around the Oval and the house itself gave the children much pleasure… Some of the house’s exciting nooks and crannies were given appropriate names by the children: • There was a wooden stepladder in the passage, leading up to ‘The Witch’s Tower’, a tiny circular turret room where they would act out the story of Rapunzel and enjoy midnight feasts of condensed milk and tinned sardines amongst other food.

• The narrow driveway between the workshop and the large plane tree was called ‘The Dardanelles’. Evidently the workshop wall and the car were in constant need of repair as the result of speeding.

• ‘Stonehenge’ was a derelict semicircular rondavel. It was a lapa at the swimming pool (now on the adjacent property), and comprised a stone wall and crooked pillars.

• Then there was ‘The Bermuda Triangle’ which was a shaded triangular patch of ground with an air of mystery, situated between gates and walls.

The property was full of tall trees and each child was allowed to claim one as their own. These trees were ideal for climbing as well as for tree houses, foofie slides and swings. Jane claims that it used to be possible to roller skate (at top speed) right through the house to the various stoeps, via the kitchen, dining room, passage and hall (much to her mother’s chagrin!). Jarrod tells of an incident when a young Jane was being lowered down by rope from one of the lofts and got terribly stuck, so that parents had to be called

in urgently to unravel her.

There was once an orchard on the one acre plot and although the original owner chopped down most of the fruit trees, he left enough to provide an abundance of peaches, apricots, plums and nectarines, so that the Ball children gorged themselves in the season. At the bottom of the garden he built chicken hoks and a pig sty.

In these hoks, the Ball children kept their various pets and most of the time chickens and rabbits ran around freely on the bottom part of the property.

Eggs were in abundance.

In time, stone was removed from the existing Stone Pile on the property and used to build a level foundation for a tennis court. This was surfaced with earth obtained, with permission from the van der Byl’s, from termite heaps in the veld on the Irene Farm. (As a boy of eight, Jarrod came in contact

with the numerous little snakes that inhabited the termite heaps and thus began his lifelong intrigue with snakes).

After the tennis court was completed, a 14 meter long swimming pool was built and the chicken hocks were upgraded into decent accommodation for children coming to church camps or summer schools from a Durban-based

church. Later, the pool filter room was converted into a small chapel.

The Balls always had an open home and enjoyed entertaining by way of tennis and swimming parties, sundowners and meals. Guests included friends, relations, church folk and business associates. The Ball home was also a home for ‘lost souls’, like people needing a place to stay, or young men doing military service, with no local home or family to go to.

Jarvis was sadly killed in a midair collision at age 21, Viva Ball passed away many years later and Jane moved her nursery School, Little Oak Montessori, into the family home after Joe passed away in 2001. Mary and Jane now live in the UK and Jarrod lives in Cape Town. Jocelyn still lives on the bottom sub-division of the property, so that the Ball family has occupied the property for over 60 years.

Even sub-divided, the top property with the original house on it is enormous today! The house had five bedrooms – but only one bathroom in those days – and the rooms still have wonderful home-made wrought iron sconces

and light fittings made by Joe Ball who loved to visit junkyards for his materials. When Joe retired he thought his wife, Viva, deserved a second bathroom in the house so he built an annex onto the main bedroom on the south end of the house. Today, this annex forms a separate dwelling with a big forecourt which fronts onto Villager’s Lane.

The top property with the main house is now on the market and since the building was recently a school, the term “renovator’s dream” might apply since work will no doubt be needed to turn it back into a home. There is a completely separate out-building (again with a fairy-tale upstairs area) that could be converted into a granny flat and the existing annex forms a separate house, so there are in effect three separate dwellings on the property. A buyer will need to modernize the house(s) but it is hoped that any modernization will keep and incorporate all the magical elements of the property.

This article was a joint effort by Jane Slater, Jarrod and Jocelyn Ball as well as Cilla Taylor

iNDIGENOUS FLOWERS

by Louise Labuschagne

Eulophia welwitchii and Eulophia ovalis are both

Another huge threat is the pink Argenweed - an aggressive invader of grasslands.

Although currently not listed as ‘threatened’ on the Red Data List, an increase in destruction of its habitat is resulting in the urban populations of these plants being at huge risk, especially in the metropolitan areas of Gauteng where the grasslands are under extreme pressure of development.

There are only a few left in the grasslands and they should be protected.

terrestrial orchids.

The flowering time for these two orchids is between November and February. I have been lucky Irene Primary School enough to capture them on our Bruce Street, Irene travels through the veld…

Tel: 012 667 1037/8

Irene PROPERTY News

By Liza Gillett

With an average house price growth rate of 3.7% last year, we project the 2018 average to shift a little higher to maybe 5%.

The Reserve Bank left the interest rates unchanged at 10.25%.

But lets start the year by looking at some stats, specifically for Irene.

Property Transfer For the last 12 months Feb17-Jan18 Freehold

units

800k-1.5mil

1

1,250

1,250

1.5mil-3mil

14

37,350

2,668

greater than 3mil

15

55,780

3,719

TOTAL

30

94,380

3,146

Total R000's AVG R000's

Sectional title 800k-1.5mil

3

3,070

1,023

1.5mil-3mil

4

9,400

2,350

greater than 3mil

0

0

0

TOTAL

7

12,470

1,781

Suburb Demographics : Provide by Lightstone

See you next month with some more interresting property news of Irene!

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SATURDAY, 12 MAY 2018 09H00 TO 12H00, IRENE VILLAGE HALL

Donations of any household goods, toys, old clothing and books needed.

Hearing empowers us and helps us to live every day without limitations. Hearing enables us to have relationships with people we love and to keep contact with the world around us.

DIENSTE/SERVICES:

DIAGNOSTIESE GEHOORTOETSE VIR KINDERS EN VOLWASSENES DIAGNOSTIC HEARING TESTS FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS GEHOORSIFTINGS VIR BABAS / HEARING SCREENING FOR BABIES GEHOORAPPARATE / HEARING AIDS VERSTELLINGS, SKOON MAAK EN DIENS VAN GEHOORAPPARATE ADJUSTMENTS, CLEANING AND SERVICE OF HEARING AIDS OORWAS VERWYDERING / EAR WAX REMOVING GEHOORBESKERMING, SLAAP & SWEM PROPPIES NOISE PROTECTION, SLEEP & SWIM PLUGS GRATIS GEHOORSIFTINGS / FREE HEARING SCREENING GRATIS GEHOORAPPARAAT TOETS PERIODE / TRIAL HEARING AID FITTINGS

We may have

BUYERS

for your home!

Seeff’s experience in the selling of homes and our access to buyers may mean that you already have a POTENTIAL SALE of your home in the making!

If you are not interested in selling at this time, you can contact us for an obligation-free valuation of your home, or you can simply give us a call if you require market related information about properties in your area.

Elaine Haupt 083 644 7818 / 012 667 2167 elaine.haupt@seeff.com

“With over half a century of expertise buying and selling properties, we understand it is more than just a transaction - this is your story and we are honoured to write this chapter with you.” - Samuel Seeff

Expertise Built Through Generations of Trust

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ADVERTISING IN THE IRENE TOWN CRIER, PLEASE CONTACT TRACEY ON 082 460 6007 OR email info@tlgpublishing. co.za

Pokémon Go in Irene Did you know that Irene is home to a community of avid Pokémon Go players?

Pokémon Go is an “augmented reality” (AR) videogame. Unlike most other videogames, it’s played in the real world, using a smartphone.

Players must travel to real-life landmarks, train virtual creatures, and work together to achieve objectives in the game.

Since it’s played in the real world, the game encourages players to walk around, exercise, explore their environment, and interact with other players in person.

The Pokémon Go community in Irene is very diverse. The game is played by students, schoolchildren, working professionals, stay-at-home moms, university lecturers, business owners, and everyone in between.

Irene, with its natural beauty, physical safety, pedestrian-friendly streets, and interesting historical landmarks, is the perfect environment for players to come together and enjoy the game.

So, if you see a group of people standing on the side of the road and holding their phones, please don’t be alarmed! It’s probably a group of Pokémon Go players, battling creatures in a virtual world, while doing

their best not to get in anyone’s way in the real world.

In the future, AR games will probably continue to grow in popularity.

Pokémon Go has already built on the success of an earlier game, Ingress, which also has a strong fan following in Irene. In the second half of 2018, a new AR game will be launched called Wizards Unite, which will be based on the popular Harry Potter series of books and movies. This will probably encourage many new players to join the AR gaming trend.

If you’re interested in joining the Pokémon Go community in Irene, or you’d like to contact us for any other reason, please email Maja Sakkers at pokemon.go.in.irene@gmail.com.

Kylie Greyling, a local Pokémon Go player, shows off one of her favourite pokémon.

PROCEDURE FOR NOISE POLLUTION and OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH COMPLAINTS Is it possible for the public to complain about noise?

Yes, it is your constitutional right to complain.

Where can I report a noise complaint?

Complaints can be communicated to the municipal health services information desk at the following number: 012 358 4656 or via e-mail: ehonestop@tshwane.gov.za How and under what legislation do you investigate noise complaints?

Municipal Health Services are utilising the Gauteng Noise Control Regulation as a guideline to enforce noise control in the City of Tshwane.

How does Municipal Health Services deal with noise complaints?

After a complaint has been received and registered at the Municipal Health Services information desk, a standard operating procedure is followed by the Environmental Health Practitioner to investigate the complaint.

This will include: · Investigation; · Validate the complaint; · Issue a notification on the transgressor; · Request an affidavit from the complainant; · When necessary, a final notification is issued; and / or · Legal action may be instituted for non-compliance.

What is the legal requirement to comply with the Gauteng Noise Control Regulation?

The Gauteng Noise Control Regulation prescribes a specific noise rating level for every different land use activity. This information can be obtained from the Municipal Health Services information desk at the following number: 012 358 4656 or via email: ehonestop@tshwane.gov.za From statistical analysis of noise complaints, the following complaints are being received on a regular basis: · Noise from emergency power generators; · Noise from pubs, taverns and shebeens; · Music related to church activities; · Barking dogs; · Noisy electro-mechanical equipment, e.g. compressors, extractor fans, etc.; and · Noise from illegal home industries e.g. use of grinders, power tools, etc.

Are you dealing with illegal business premises causing noise?

Yes, these kinds of complaints are investigated and reported to City Planning who will act on the zoning in terms of the Tshwane Town Planning Scheme. Municipal Health Services will investigate the noise aspect. In certain cases noise measurements will be required. Depending on the outcome of the noise measurement report, legal

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action might be instituted against the transgressor.

How do you deal with new developments in the city in terms of noise?

New developments involve new township establishments, rezoning and consent use applications.

After evaluation of the application, comments and inputs with regard to noise control are submitted by Municipal Health Services (MHS) to City Planning.

A noise impact assessment of the proposed development will also form part of the requirements of Municipal Health Services. This proactive approach is followed in order to prevent future noise complaints from such developments.

General issues concerning environmental health: What other issues are handled by MHS? Any environmental issue that has an impact on human health will be handled

by MHS, e.g. vector breeding, illegal dumping, air pollution such as smoke or dust, use of chemicals, etc.

Do I need permission to sell food or start a food handling business?

Yes, you need a certificate of acceptability from MHS – you can phone 012 358 4656 for assistance.

Where do I report possible food poisoning?

You can phone 012 358 4656 or 012 358 8766 during working hours.

Where can I report someone smoking in a non-smoking area?

You can phone 012 358 4656 during working hours or Metro Police after hours at 012 358 7095.

Does my child’s crèche need a certificate?

Yes, a health certificate needs to be issued by MHS under the Child Care Services Bylaw and must be displayed.

Is the safety of drinking water monitored?

Yes, MHS takes frequent samples of the drinking water to ensure safety.

For more information on environmental health issues, enquiries or complaints, the MHS One-stop office can be contacted at 012 358 4656 or EHonestop@tshwane.gov.za and your regional Environmental Health Practitioner will attend to the matter.

Via #Ward65

SMALL BUSINESSES

For advertising in the small business section please email info@tlgpublishing.co.za.

LP Gas: Cannisters delivered to your home. 9kg, 19kg, 48kg. Phone Colin 082 856 5335 e-mail orders colin.cns@gmail. com.

An Li Tai Chi and Chi Kung Centre. Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese moving exercise, soft, slow and rhythmic, promoting physical and mental balance and harmony. Reduces stress and anxiety.

Cultivates self discipline, perseverance and self improvement. Self defence applications enhances self confidence. Tai Chi creates a peaceful, calm and tranquil state. Contact Ainslie on 082 568 0467 or e-mail: ainsliesmith@absamail.co.za.

House sitter: Irene resident, sleep in (optional), feed pets, organise domestics.

References available. Rates negotiable.

Contact Gregg 079 703 3178.

Ballet Belle: Stockists of all your ballet and dance needs at great prices. debbie. balletbelle@gmail.com. 1 Pioneer Road, Irene. 08h30 to 16h30 Monday to Friday.

Willie Kgara has been a resident of Irene for close on 25 years. Well known and liked, he specialises in woodwork, but he, and his team, can do anything from painting to general maintenance.

Phone 083 584 4532.

The Garden Boys Garden Service, Rubble removal and Yard cleaning. Very reliable and honest. Contact Johannes 072 633 0759. Contact Patricia Davison in Krige Lane for a refer-

ence on 082 411 4122. Please support them, they deserve a chance!

Ann Campbell (ARAD, Registered Teacher, Teach Dip) and Hayley Littleford (ARAD, Registered Teacher and Tutor) Ballet Lessons from Tiny tots to Advanced Foundation + Adult Early Evening Ballet at home studio and Irene Homes Hall. Also social Ballroom and Latin American as well as wedding dances - Phone Ann 012 667 5187 or 083 316 7842 or Email ann@netcampbell.com.

Firewood special while stocks last.

R900 Small bakkie load (1/2 ton) and R1 500 for a double load. For cold spells, braais, weddings and other functions plus power outages. Contact Oscar on 078 389 9632.

Pet and home care. For peace of mind while you’re away, contact me for anything you need done. From feeding pets, to house-sitting and watering plants etc. I’m an Irene resident. Jade: 064 424 1142.

Rock/Stone walls: Americo Mungue builds beautiful rock walls in Irene. He also builds plant boxes, retaining walls and any other rock work you want done.

Please call Americo on 071 942 7823 to quote. References in Irene available.

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Snake removal: Professional, safe snake removal. Snakes are relocated to Rietvlei Nature Reserve. Contact Wickus on 072 476 7554.

Security/Steelwork: Welding and repair work of steel fencing, burglar bars, security gates and motorised gates and intercom systems. Guaranteed professional work. Phone Koos Sutherland 082 374 7164.

Stone walls, brickwork and paving: I have worked in Irene for 28 years and am an expert in building stone walls, and laying both brick and slate paving. I also do brickwork and plastering. I can handle the entire job, from advising on material purchases to building rubble removal. Please call me, Bethuel Manyama, on 084 457 8682 or 071 497 4008 for a quotation and the names of people for whom I have done work.

Smileys blinds: For all types of blinds old and new repairs as well as reconditioning. Smildon 061 931 1491.

Paving: I am John Banda and I do very good paving. I have learnt my skills from a paving company so I can do all kinds of patterns. Now I am working on my own. I have done paving in Irene so I have good references.Please call me at 078 039 5197.

Painter: My name is Quinton, I’m a professional painter with references, able to do all types of handy work and garden work too, lives in Irene. I’m a 35 year old white male with equipment. Tel: 071 408 3170. Able to work every day of the week except Saturday, will work on sundays.

For bee removal contact Anton 073 527 9666.

Electrician: Reliable and professional.

Gary prides himself over the neatness and quality of his work, that won’t empty your pocket. He does the majority of the work himself. Call Gary 076 792 2406.

Black refuse bags sold in aid of Irene Homes’ Family & Friends (F&F) Assoc.

R105 per pkt, 100 in a pkt. The bags are made of recycled plastic and are far cheaper than in the shops, they are tough and of good quality! The bags are available from: 66 Queen Street, Irene or can be delivered free of charge within Irene.

Tel: 012/667 4924, confplan@iafrica.com.

Experienced Thatcher: For all your thatching needs - new homes, lapas, repairs, maintenance, fire-proofing. Also specialises in car ports, pergolas, jungle gyms, Wendy houses. Andries has done many projects in Irene. For a quote call : 066 245 2460 .

Town Crier Feb/Mar 2018

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SMALL CRIES

To place an ad in the Small Cries section please email info@tlgpublishing.co.za.

Accommodation Cottage to let: 1 Bedroom with on suite bathroom, open plan Lounge, modern kitchen, opening onto a little garden. Own entrance, 1 lockable garage, good security. Prepaid electricity. Regret: no smoking and no pets. R5500.00 plus deposit.

Contact Ena 072 383 8700.

2-Bedroom garden flat rental: Irene - R7 800 (Apr 2018). Secure 2-bedroom garden flat (74m2) in lovely shaded private garden (400m2). Own automated access gate.

Large patio. Ample cupboard space. Open plan lounge/dining room. North facing with big windows /sliding doors - airy & light.

Burglar bars & security gates. Double carport. Bathroom with shower. Low maintenance. Lock-up & go. Available Apr 2018.

Contact Chanel: 083 445 6019.

Accommodation wanted My domestic worker is looking for a place to rent in and around Centurion. She is currently working for me in Irene, but travels very far each day to get to work. She is willing to pay R500 a month in order to rent a room. She is very trustworthy and I will go out of my way to help her find an appropriate place to stay. Laurette 082 746 9514.

Domestics Domestic and driver: Catherine, who has worked and lived in Irene for 18 years, is looking for a full time, live in position (her previous employer has relocated). Catherine is capable of handling all household responsibilities and has a driver’s licence which is very useful in any busy house-

hold. Catherine 078 4072 686. Ilse (reference) 076 6789 629.

Stephina Monama needs work on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. Resides in Botha Avenue. English-speaking. Excellent housekeeper: honest, reliable and organised. Contact Ms S de Beer at 644 746178 or Ms C Oosthuizen at 082 3248 371.

Jeaneth is our very reliable, punctual, hardworking and very pleasant domestic worker who is available on Monday and Thursday from the 1 March, as her other employer is re-locating. She has worked for us for 4 years and comes recommended. Please contact me (Mandy) on 083 256 7949 or Jeaneth directly on 072 307 6965.

Elsie Rabothata is looking for part time work two days a week around Irene, Centurion, Lyttleton etc. General housework including cooking. Reference: Mrs Hermein Konig 082 367 0089. Contact Elsie on 072 889 7991.

Martha is looking for part-time sleep out domestic work. She is very reliable, friendly, hard working and trustworthy. Her mother has worked for me in Irene for 20 years and now Martha works for me on a part time basis but needs more days. Her daughter attends Lyttleton Manor. Phone 066 222 2079. Reference Caroline 084 580 4016.

Elsie works for me for 2 days a week as a nanny for my baby and as a domestic cleaner. She has worked for my family and others, with great references. She is excellent with babies and children. Elsie

is looking for live in work in the area and 3 days work. Please contact me if you want more info. Liza: 084 394 4590. You are also welcome to contact Elsie directly on 082 814 6628.

Maria is in her fifties and seeks employment on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Irene or surrounding areas. She is truly reliable, honest and hard working. She has been in our employment for the past 11 years and it’s been a true blessing! She stays in with us at Irene View Estate (in Highveld) from Monday to Friday. For more info, please contact: Desiree 082 788 5028 or Frans 079 877 7076.

I am relocating and Joyce, my very reliable, punctual and hardworking domestic is looking for work for 2 or 3 days a week from 1 November. She has worked for me for 5 years and is highly recommended, please contact Natasha for references on 082 784 9176 or Joyce on 078 545 9262.

Our domestic lady, Germinah, is looking for work in Irene on a Thursday. She is always punctual, reliable, friendly and a hard worker. Please contact Maretha on 0845 789 515 for a reference.

For sale Three division oak wall units for sale for R2 000. Phone Trish 082 938 6986.

Gardeners Our gardener, Boston, is looking for work on Fridays and Saturdays. He has been working in Irene for 8 years and is hardworking, reliable and trustworthy. Please contact Boston on 078 939 8616. For reference WhatsApp Ria on 082 333 0652.

Benson has been working for me for a number of years as a gardener and general helper. He is honest, reliable and hard working. He has assisted with painting

projects and can do small repairs like replacing window panes. Benson is looking for more work and is currently available on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays. Please phone Marjorie on 082 483 7532 for a reference.

Thomas has worked as a gardener in Irene and the surrounding area for the past 6 years. Unfortunately his current employer is leaving Irene and he is seeking work 4 days a week, excluding Fridays. Please contact him on 062 579 4715 or Karin at 082 376 6396 for a reference.

Paul Phiri our gardener for past 6 years in Queen Street, seeks employment in Irene area, he has Monday, Thursday and Friday available. He is reliable, trustworthy and hard working. His contact details are 083 861 6117. Reference Danny 076 834 5178.

Lyford Zulu is looking for work. He is available on a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. He is a trustworthy, hard worker and takes initiative. He is very patient and gentle with little children who also want to do gardening! Call Liezl (083 303 1514) for a reference.

General Babysitting services in Irene. I am 20 years old and have 2 years experience in babysitting (reference is available on request.) I am First Aid Level 2 qualified and can also help with tutoring if necessary. Rates are negotiable.

For all your babysitting needs, contact myself Kerryn on 076 760 6695.

Excellent tiler, highly recommended: Vusi 073 915 7005. Ref: Julia 012 667 2576.

Friendly no-smoking and responsible first year student to look after you house and pets. Please Contact Matthew Olivier 064 096 3284.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS EBS 24hrs Control Room: EBS Irene Manager (Jurie):

012 667 6337 / 071 576 5904 072 828 1701

EBS Paramedic Service - SecMed: Call EBS Control Room above or press Panic Button Please note: Non ILA Members will be charged for this service

ILA Irene Village Manager (Jan Swanepoel): 083 607 6600 e-mail: jan.swanepoel@irene.co.za ILA Administration (Alyson): 072 714 3740 e-mail: ilamanager@irene.co.za Accounts (Veronica): 071 657 9547 e-mail: accounts@irene.co.za

STREET LIGHTS e-mail: Tel:

streetlights@tshwane.gov.za 012 358 9999

TSHWANE METRO EMERGENCY SERVICES Power Failures: 012 358 2541 Water Supply: 012 358 2111 Ambulance/Fire: 10177 Metro Police: 1 0111 For power failures, you may also SMS the word “power” followed by your municipal account number to 082 612 0333 or 44676 or visit www.tshwane.gov.za and follow the Report power failure link.

ELECTRO-PLUM cc

Emergency services can be arranged MARIUS BECKER Cell: 082 852 3265

THEA

081 515 5874 Tel: 012 333 8745 Fax: 086 681 6211 Electrical and Plumbing Services & New Installations and Maintenance

electroplum@myconnection.co.za

Includes: • Project Management • Construction • Refurbishments • Shopfitting • Civil Works • Specialised Concrete Placements

Smiles4All Dental Studio

has become one of the leading practices for teeth whitening. We are constantly looking for the latest products and technologies to ensure that we offer safe and effective options available to suit every budget.

It is with this in mind that we are proud to announce that we are now an accredited BIOLASE practice with state of the art laser equipment for precision treatment!

NEW! Brilliant white teeth for extra confidence!

Our BRAND NEW BIOLASE EPIC X laser treatment system has just made teeth whitening faster and more effective! The treatment is ideal for people on the move and results are visible immediately after treatment.

THE EPIC X laser treatment is effective for teeth whitening and excellent for laser pain therapy, biostimulation, oral surgery and periodontal treatment.

The technology is incredible ... EPIC! Smiles4All Dental practice Suite 11 (Ground Floor) , Centurion e: smilesforall@iafrica.com

Highveld Park Shopping Centre t: 012 665 1631

w: www.smilesforall.co.za

c: 082 443 1008 fb: smiles4all