GRAPEVINE | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024

VAL DE VIE ESTATE RESIDENTS

Making a Difference

February/March 2024

Have you heard the story about the starfsh? A child is walking along a beach after a ferce storm, and as far as the eye can see, starfsh have been washed up onto the shore. The child picks up one starfsh and throws it back into the ocean. Then someone asks, “Why? Saving all the starfsh is impossible.” Undeterred, the child picks up another starfsh and responds, “I made a difference to that one.” This story highlights the power of how every positive action, no matter how small, can make a difference in the life of someone or something.

Living on Val de Vie Estate, we can all do things each day to beneft not only our immediate environment but our wider community and the world around us too. o you know, say hello or acknowledge your neighbours? o you engage and interact with your wider community? Are you mindful of others in your actions?

Here are some small ideas or thoughts to consider. ecycle more. Take reusable bags to the delis on the state, the Wellness arm or when you go to

the supermarket. lace your litter in waste bins or take it home with you. e considerate of your water consumption. reet those around you who are working hard to ensure the state remains beautiful for all. eport damage or issues with patience and positivity. ffer your time to volunteer with the al de ie oundation. The feelings you will e perience from helping others and positively impacting upon your local and wider community are immeasurable. Inspire change and be the difference you want to see one starfsh at a time.

Pitch Perfect

New beach volleyball and soccer pitches are now open at the Multi-Purpose Sports Field, close to the Berg River Gate. These new sporting facilities were created using salvaged sand that was deposited on the Estate during the winter foods, turning a potential problem into a recreational space that promises fun and ftness. If the pitches prove to be popular, the space can accommodate a further four volleyball pitches or two soccer pitches, and future expansions may include facilities such as toilets, showers, a water point, seating and more. To prevent sand from blowing away, irrigation has been installed that runs for 15 minutes at 05:00 and 21:00 daily. If you fnd any issues or have any suggestions, please get in touch with maintenance@valdevie.co.za.

Currently, bookings are not required—frst come, frst served; however, the need for a booking system may be reassessed as popularity grows. Let the games begin!

The Power of the Ballot

General elections will be held across South Africa in 2024 to elect a new National Assembly and the provincial legislature in each province. The right to vote is the cornerstone of any democratic society, serving as a powerful tool for individuals to express their opinions and infuence the direction of their nation. At Val de Vie Estate, residents have the privilege of living in a democratic country, and with that privilege comes the responsibility to actively participate in the electoral process.

The Western Cape has seen over a decade of good governance since the Democratic Alliance (DA) was elected to government in 2009; this includes the lowest unemployment rate of any province and the fastest-growing economy in South Africa, while Cape Town is ranked as the leading start-up city in South Africa and the best tourist city in the world (for seven years in a row).

Even closer to home, the Auditor General of South Africa (AGSA) annual review of local municipalities (covering audit results for the 2021/22 fnancial year) shows that DA-run governments by far outperform the rest, with the Drakenstein Municipality coming out on top, as the best-run secondary city in the country.

The Drakenstein Municipality is applauded for its commitment to clean governance and delivering services to all communities, refected in its 2023/24 budget. It aims to enable an economic environment that creates jobs, uplifts people experiencing poverty, and builds on a record of excellent service delivery.

By actively participating in the electoral process, we contribute to the establishment of a government that aligns with our values; values that prioritise education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainable development. Registering to vote is not just a right; it is a responsibility and an opportunity to shape the future of our nation.

On Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 February, residents will have the last opportunity to register to vote on Val de Vie Estate – in the Ballroom at the Polo Pavilion from 08:00 – 18:00.

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Elegance meets Effciency

Step into this well-maintained, spacious home perfectly designed for comfort and leisure. The layout has been thoughtfully designed, with the focal point being the expansive open-plan entertainment area with incredible views. The open-plan kitchen with private scullery offers two ovens, an induction stove, a built-in microwave, and underfoor heating. Enjoy indoor-outdoor living w ith glass sliding doors that open to the outdoor patio and swimming pool – the ideal spot for a dip on warm summer afternoons. On the ground foor, the main bedroom is an idyllic retreat with air-condition ing, built-in cupboards and en-suite bathroom featuring underfoor heating and a private outdoor shower – allo wing you to enter a garden oasis. Ascend the sweeping staircase with cast iron balustrades to the frst f oor, with its spacious pyjama lounge, airconditioning and a kitchenette which leads onto a balcony. This foor is also home to a walk-in safe and three en-suite bedrooms, two offering balconies which overlook the garden. This property has many additional features, including a Victron electrical system, motion sensor lights, a central vacuum system, custom-made lights, and a fully furnished bar. With 30 solar panels, an instant geyser, imported tiles, and convenient access to the Sports & Leisure Centre through a side gate, this residence combines luxurious living with practical amenities for a truly exceptional lifestyle. PRICE: R28,500,000

Lakeside Living

Situated beside a serene lake, this home provides a unique blend of modern luxury and sustainable living. The open-plan living and dining area is ideal for spending quality time with loved ones, while the kitchen features a breakfast bar, gas hob, and a separate scullery. There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms, including a thoughtfully designed main bedroom with en-suite bathroom. As you explore the outdoor spaces, the covered patio and deck invite you to unwind while overlooking a sparkling swimming pool. For added convenience, a double garage and three additional parking bays mean there is ample space for your vehicles.

The property includes solar panels, a 5kW inverter, and a lithium battery backup system, ofering a continuous power supply and ensuring you remain unafected by load-shedding. R10,700,000

THE PERFECT GETAWAY

Set alongside the water’s edge, this threebedroom lodge is a retreat for couples or families seeking a weekend getaway in the Cape Winelands, with open-plan living areas that are inviting, comfortable and flled with natural light. The kitchen features a breakfast bar and ample storage, as well as an integrated laundry cupboard, which adds functionality to the layout. Glass sliding doors extend the indoor space out onto a spacious deck with a built-in freplace – the ideal setting for outdoor entertainment during the summer months. There are two bedrooms on the frst foor, each with en-suite bathrooms and private balconies. Occupying the second foor, the primary bedroom is spacious and enjoys panoramic mountain and lake views. Beyond its aesthetic charm, this lodge is also load-shedding proof, blending comfort with scenic beauty.

PRICE: R7,950,000

Magnifcent dahlias, cosmos and other seasonal, heirloom fowers are currently in full bloom.

Blooming Marvellous

Adene’s Farm Flowers – a fower farm in Wolseley renowned for growing beautiful fowers and foliage – has recently established a new micro-farm spanning half a hectare on Val de Vie Estate. Conveniently situated on the road that leads to Kinder Ark school and at the rear of the ViLLAGE deli, residents are invited to pick their own fowers from the net house on Mondays and from Wednesday to Sunday from 07:30 until 10:30 (closed on Tuesdays). Payment is at the farm as you enter, or you can book your ticket at www.villagedeli.co.za for either a bucket of 15 fowers or 25 fowers.

During the summer months, fowers can be picked at the net house up until around mid-April, and then in winter, at a new greenhouse from July until October with carmel anemones, Italian ranunculus, butterfy ranunculus, stocks and other spring seasonals

available. Additionally, a new cold room is also open (located next to the micro-farm) for fower sales. Adene Nieuwoudt is the passionate force behind Adene’s Farm Flowers. Her love of nature drew her to cultivating fowers, freshly gathered from felds and gardens, which celebrate the feeting beauty of the season. “I love the feeling of choosing and selecting fowers for my home, adding colour, beauty and life to a space. We look forward to welcoming you to experience this simple pleasure and the joy it brings.”

Residents not interested in picking fowers are welcome to visit the farm daily (excluding Tuesdays) from 07:30 until 12:00 for a leisurely stroll. No bookings are needed, entry is R50 per person and includes a packet of seeds worth R65. Beautifully wrapped fresh bunches of fowers are also available daily at the ViLLAGE Deli.

At the Val de Vie Equestrian Club, two new instructors, Zita and KC, have joined Jaen-Maré, while horses Finley, Coco and Charlotte are settling into the stables.

Equestrian Endeavours

At the Val de Vie Equestrian Club, each instructor is dedicated to helping riders gain confdence and skills in the saddle. With personalised lessons tailored to your needs, you’ll quickly develop a strong bond with trusted horses, and should you prefer a more leisurely experience, you can also enjoy picturesque outrides through the Estate.

Zita Bothma

Zita’s love for horses started at the age of seven when she rode for the frst time at a birthday party, and after 13 years, her passion hasn’t dwindled. As well as being an instructor who works with riders of all levels and abilities, she knows nothing

rivals the feeling of improving in the saddle. Zita is also a competitive rider who regularly participates in shows – and she believes there is always something new to learn about horses and ponies.

KC Joynt

From the moment KC frst sat on a horse, he knew that it was what he would spend the rest of his life doing. Almost 30 years later, he is a SANEF-qualifed instructor who coaches students of all levels, from beginners to experienced riders. KC also schools and provides ftness and training for young or badly behaved horses as well as competing in disciplines such as eventing, dressage, and show jumping.

FINLEY (far left) is a sweet but cheeky fea-bitten grey who is approaching 20 years old and loves taking beginners on walks.

CHARLOTTE At seven years old, Charlotte (left), show name Miss Charlotte, is still learning but catching on quickly. She is perfect for students who are fne-tuning their equestrian skills and need to understand how to use the correct aids when riding.

COCO Best friends with Finley, Coco (right) is a dark bay with a long fowing mane and tail who enjoys outrides and exploring the trails on the Estate. He likes jumping and can get a little excited when he goes around the track.

In a League of their Own

You may have watched a Polo League game at the Pavilion Polo Field or Champion’s Field – but do you know what the Val de Vie Polo Club League is, how it works and who the players are? We spoke with the Val de Vie Polo Club League Executive Committee to learn more.

What exactly is the Val de Vie Polo Club League?

The Val de Vie Polo Club League is a series of games played by four brandsponsored teams in a round-robin format throughout six rounds. One game per month is played during the Val de Vie Polo Club season, which runs from October 2023 to April 2024. The teams are compiled by the Val de Vie Polo Club League Committee and consist of Val de Vie Polo Club Members who have put their names forward to commit to play.

How does the League difer to tournaments?

Unlike tournaments that are played over three days, the League is a point-based competition stretching over the entire Val de Vie Polo Club season, making it an excellent platform for residents and companies to get involved by sponsoring and supporting their polo teams, as well as hosting clients and guests.

When was the Val de Vie Polo Club League founded?

The Val de Vie Polo Club League was founded and launched in 2022 to tally the results of play and to create a following throughout the season. The League has gained traction and a following as the events unfold and excitement builds. As with any new venture, we started small and continue to improve on the League while staying true to the Val de Vie Polo Club ethos, which puts the ponies and the sport frst while creating a thrilling atmosphere at each game.

Members Only

The next Val de Vie Polo Club League games will be played on Saturday 3 February, Saturday 23 March and Saturday 6 April. The frst games typically start at 15:00, followed by a second game at 16:00 at the Pavilion Polo Field (timings are subject to change depending on the weather conditions).

The Val de Vie Polo Club offers a social membership for those who are enthusiastic about the game of polo but are not players. Membership for the season, which runs from October to April, includes discounts on apparel and selected ticketed events. Members will also gain exclusive access to the new Val de Vie Polo Clubhouse, which is anticipated to open in October 2024. For further information, please email marketing@valdevie.co.za.

If you are interested in sponsoring a Val de Vie Polo Club League team, please email marketing@valdevie.co.za or follow @valdeviepolo on Instagram for more information.

Chelsea Wilson

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IN SUPPORT OF CANSA PAARL #POLOWITHAPURPOSE

EXCLUSIVE TICKET OFFERINGS STARTING FROM R500 PER PERSON

From Field to Feast

AVAILABLE DURING FEBRUARY AND MARCH (CLIMATE PERMITTING):

VEGETABLES

Carrots

Red cabbage

Red lettuce

Brown onions

Baby marrows

Marrows

Roma tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes

Turnips

Parsnips

Hubbard squash

Gem squash

Mixed spinach

Flat leaf kale

Hot chillies

Spring onions

Butternut

Melons and watermelons are ripening in the sunshine and will be available during February.

Frilly lettuce

Okra

Red onions

HERBS

Mint

Sweet Rocket

Rosemary

Parsley

Oreganum

Lemon Thyme

Two Decades of Excellence

A MESSAGE FROM JAMES SEARSON, DIRECTOR OF GOLF & CLUB OPERATIONS

AT THE PEARL VALLEY JACK NICKLAUS

SIGNATURE GOLF COURSE.

What a special year 2023 was for the Pearl Valley Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course – as the club celebrated its 20th birthday. We hosted a party for the decade, with an array of events on offer for members and their guests to enjoy.

From a tailor-made golf day, gala dinner and party, to a movie night at the clubhouse for the kids, scuba diving introduction course at the swimming pool, face painting, jumping castles, gourmet spit braai and live entertainment, we spared no expense to ensure that there would be something for everyone to enjoy. The gala dinner was an evening of elegance. Welcome drinks and canapés were served on arrival while the famous illusionist, magician and entertainer Larry Soffer enticed the guests. A live performance by folkpop duo RAAF set the perfect mood for the dinner and party, and of course, a few important speeches after dinner with a raising of glasses to toast the wonderful occasion.

We live in a fast-paced world where we can, at times, fall fault for becoming consumed by all the goals, targets and improvements we wish to achieve. It was special to take a moment to press the pause button and refect on the memories of Pearl Valley from the past 20 years and what this club has meant to so many - a place to call home, and where friends become family.

Pedal Power Unleashed

Forming part of the Val de Vie Estate red mountain bike route – which now totals 25 kilometres – the Flow Trail at The Acres is offcially open for all residents to enjoy. At almost two kilometres in length, it features a six-metre bridge, big berms, small to medium-sized rollers and a dual slalom fnish. The Flow Trail itself is a clay-surfaced trail surrounded by fynbos, with sections that wind their way through lush forest. The Flow Trail took around eight months to complete, with some delays caused by the heavy rainfall and fooding during the winter months. Designed and created by the experience team at Paarl Trails, the route was frst mapped out and then excavated, followed by the laying of foundations. Next, clay was used to shape and form the undulations and curves of the track, and fnally, the wooden features and signage were added. The new Flow Trail is just one of the ways you can get out into nature on Val de Vie Estate, a place where physical, social, environmental, community and economic, as well as mental, emotional and spiritual wellness, is actively encouraged.

Nearly 2km of clay-surfaced trail at The Acres neighbourhood on Pearl Valley

A Season of Giving

The end of last year was a busy time for everyone involved in the Val de Vie Foundation. We want to take this opportunity to thank all our residents who willingly give their time, experience and expertise to beneft our wider community.

Community Compassion

The Val de Vie Foundation and children of MCM Miqlat Day Care were at a loss for words to express the happiness they experienced during their Christmas party – which took place at the end of last year. We are so grateful to you, our residents, for delivering 54 beautifully wrapped Christmas boxes flled with the most beautiful and thoughtful gifts these children have ever received. The day itself marked a number of memorable frsts for each of the children, which began with a bus ride into Stellenbosch and was followed by seeing tractors in the Blaauwklippen vineyards, exploring a truly magnifcent playground, bike rides and delicious party packs. The highlight was a visit from Father Christmas, who then handed out the best presents they could have ever imagined. Each child waited patiently until the last gift had been given, and then eager little hands began to tear open the wrapping paper, followed by much excitement and big smiles. The Val de Vie Foundation works with the community to organise at least one Christmas party each year, and we are grateful to you all for your monthly donation via your levy and to those who went the extra mile by donating Christmas gift boxes. In the words of Aletia Grundling, MCM Miqlat Day Care's CEO: “May your hearts be flled with joy, knowing that you have made a difference in the life of someone who has never experienced so much tangible love in abundance.”

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” - Winston Churchill

FLTR: Lorenzo Arendse, Drakenstein MAYCO member; Children safely playing sport; Brian Nortje from Thorburn Security explaining workings of the fence; Stefan Howells, Ryk Neethling, Aphiwe Titana Hta, Brian Nortje and Fred Laker

Tiny Treasures

The Val de Vie Foundation was honoured to receive 50 beautiful hand-knitted teddy bears from Eileen Kleynhans to distribute to the Department of Paediatrics at Paarl Hospital. Eileen’s daughter, Caro, is a graphic designer within the Val de Vie marketing department, and she had a dream to gift these teddies to our less fortunate new mothers and babies. Dr Jaco Murray, HCU Paediatrics, said: “It was wonderful to see the joy on the new mothers’ faces when they received the teddy bears. They are truly works of art; you can see the time and care spent knitting each one. The children will treasure them for the rest of their lives.” He went on to commend the Val de Vie Foundation’s commitment to supporting the hospital, saying, “Donations like these make a big difference in our community.” It is true that in the giving, we receive the most joy. Thank you, Eileen, for supporting the Foundation.

Nourishment for our Neighbours

The Val de Vie Foundation, in collaboration with the Langrug Soup Kitchen and Triple Love, sponsored a Christmas lunch for 500 children from the Langrug Franschhoek community. We were able to provide not only a hot meal but also fresh apples, peaches, and plums from Top Fruit and Salem Boerdery, as well as breakfast biscuits from Pepsico. Eyes lit up as volunteers handed out these items, and each child was literally able to take home an armful of nourishing food.

The event marked an extraordinary celebration, made possible by Val de Vie Foundation volunteers working hand-in-hand with the team at Langrug Soup Kitchen. The Val de Vie Foundation takes great pride in its role, and our residents’ incredible spirit of volunteerism and love creates a strong bond with our neighbouring communities. Our collective pursuit of ‘a better life for all in our Valley’ refects this commitment.

To get involved in upcoming Foundation initiatives, please email foundation@valdevie.co.za

As Safe as Houses

The collaborative efforts of the Val de Vie Foundation, Hope Through Action/SCORE partnership, Thorburn Security, Drakenstein Municipality and Mbekweni SAPS celebrated the commemoration of a newly installed security system at the Hope Through Action Community Sports Centre in Mbekweni. This state-of-the-art system includes two key elements: an electrifed fence and high-resolution security cameras. Funded by the proceeds of the 2022 Vodacom Shop Celebrity Golf Day, Thorburn Security implemented the entire infrastructure. Beyond securing the best price, they went the extra mile by providing two years of complimentary monitoring. We appreciate

that Thorburn, a valuable partner, aligns with the core values of the Val de Vie Foundation. The new security system is a critical measure to safeguard the investment of over R40 million in the Community Sports Centre. It aims to create a secure environment for the children of Mbekweni to renew their sense of hope amidst the daily challenges of poverty and unemployment. Following the commemoration, sports activities, including netball, volleyball, and football, took place for 250 young people participating in a holiday programme. Afterwards, the festivities concluded with a hearty snack for all participating in the programme, adding the fnishing touch to a truly memorable day.

To get involved in upcoming Foundation initiatives, please email foundation@valdevie.co.za

Small Acts, Big Impact

The Val de Vie Foundation is proud to have made a difference in the lives of thousands of underprivileged children in our Valley. Over the past eight years, we have implemented impactful initiatives such as @ Home Learning and invested in NGOs supported by Valcare.

One such benefciary, the Khula Development Group, has received continuous support from us since its inception – which in turn has allowed it to focus on the most vulnerable and disadvantaged primary school children in our Valley, particularly Grade R to Grade 4 learners identifed as at the highest risk of dropping out.

Thanks to the 2023 Vodacom Shop Celebrity Golf Day and additional direct fnancial support from the Val de Vie Foundation, two new prefabricated classrooms have been installed at Orleansvale Primary and Paarlzicht Primary, providing a safe space in which to learn and grow.

With these new facilities, dedicated Khula staff can now engage with learners through weekly sessions at school within a private and safe environment. This setting enables the development of emotional and social skills, offering real teaching opportunities. Consequently, Khula can provide a sustainable platform for these learners to achieve meaningful life changes.

DID YOU KNOW…

Lomla Spaces is located at The Yard Wellness Centre (next door to The Local Choice Pharmacy) – offering residents printing and scanning facilities starting from as little as R1. Private, load-shedding-proof offce spaces are also available for hourly, daily, or weekly use. Open Monday to Friday from 08:00 until 17:00 (closed on weekends and public holidays). For further information, call 021 887 3433, email admin@lomlaspaces.com or pop in and say hello.

Young Innovators

The frst Entrepreneurs Day for kids took place at L’Huguenot Vineyards, with over 16 stalls selling everything from brownies to snow cones, bracelets, slime, toys, carnival games and more. The idea was to give the Estate’s younger residents, who are passionate about innovation, the opportunity to test their entrepreneurial fair. The day was a huge success, with the next Entrepreneurs Day scheduled for Wednesday 7 February. For further information or to book your stand, email experience@lhuguenot.com

A Fusion of Love and Cuisine

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Polo Pavilion by Back’s restaurant and enjoy a fve-course menu that emphasises the importance of supporting local farms and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. It will begin with a starter that includes deliciously fresh vegetables from the Estate’s Wellness Farm, followed by a fsh course with ingredients sourced in partnership with Abalobi – a community-driven initiative that ensures sustainable and responsible fshing practices. The main course will feature the fnest cuts of meat fresh from Fairview’s pastures, renowned for their responsible animal husbandry, then Fairview cheeses served with homemade condiments and crackers – and fnally, dessert. Limited to just 60 covers, the fve-course menu is available for R1,700 per couple and includes a glass of bubbles on arrival. A premium wine pairing that includes vintages from Fairview and Spice Route is also available for an additional R450 per person. Arrival is 18:00 for 18:30, with the frst course served at 19:00.

Jumping Around

An incredible custom-made bouncy castle is an exciting new addition to the outdoor space at Sela Vie for the Estate’s younger residents. While the kids play, grown-ups can order a cool drink and something to eat from the restaurant’s new menu and sit on deckchairs under beautiful parasols. And when the little ones are done, they can enjoy a marshmallow milkshake, slushy or one of the dishes from the dedicated kid’s menu. Located at The Yard Wellness Centre, Sela Vie is a restaurant that celebrates life and the love of good food, community and service excellence. Open Monday to Wednesday from 07:30 until 18:00, Thursday to Saturday from 07:30 until 22:00 and Sunday from 08:30 until 15:00.

WINE OF THE MONTH

VAL DE VIE POLO CLUB SAUVIGNON BLANC 2023

A fresh, crisp, medium-bodied wine made in a New World style, using grapes hand-selected from vineyards in Robertson, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Granadilla and gooseberry flavours combine with Granny Smith apples to impart a zesty and lengthy finish on the palate. A refreshing and flavourful wine, it pairs beautifully with fresh salads and fruit salad. The ideal accompaniment to a fish braai with roasted seasonal vegetables – a perfect toast to the South African summer.

Order online at villagedeli.co.za and receive a 10% discount per case of six.

Use discount code WINEOFTHEMONTH. Free delivery within Val de Vie Estate.

The bouncy castle is in ated and ready for fun every day, weather dependent and in line with the Sela Vie’s opening and closing times.

SCAN TO MAKE A RESERVATION

The Intriguing World of the Black Sparrowhawk

Also known as the black goshawk, Accipiter melanoleucus or "swartsperwer" in Afrikaans, the black sparrowhawk is the largest African member within the Accipiter genus with an impressive wingspan ranging from 77 to 105 centimetres.

Distinguished by predominantly black plumage, both male and female black sparrowhawks showcase distinctive "white morph" variations characterised by a striking white throat, breast, and belly. Surprisingly, these white-breasted individuals are more common across

don't emerge black as chicks or juveniles. Differentiating between mature males and females based on plumage isn't feasible; however, size variations provide a notable distinction. Their legs, typically yellow, boast large feet and talons, essential for their hunting expeditions.

These enigmatic birds are discreet hunters, preferring cover for their swift ground-hunting dashes after prey. Nesting in tall trees, particularly favouring eucalyptus, they line their nests with greenery for cushioning while incubating their two to four eggs. After a 55-day nestling period, the hungry chicks become quite vocal as they seek sustenance from their attentive parents who share the responsibility of raising them. As the young birds mature, their eyes undergo a captivating transformation, shifting in colour from mid-grey to light brown and eventually dark red.

These enigmatic birds are discreet hunters, preferring cover for their swift ground-hunting dashes after prey.

Black Goshawks are territorial birds and are known to defend their nesting territories vigorously. They may display high-pitched calls and engage in aerial displays to assert dominance and discourage intruders.

most habitats, while specifc coastal regions of South Africa, notably along the Cape Peninsula, boast an 80% prevalence of the “black morph” variety.

Contrary to popular belief, the "black morphs" aren't entirely black when perched, often revealing a few white spots on the breast or varying-sized white throats. In fight, both morphs exhibit a beautiful pattern of white and black barring on the underside of their wings and tails. Notably, these "black morphs" aren't considered melanistic, as their plumage isn't entirely black, and they

ANIMAL OF THE MONTH

Beyond the ‘Sheep Attacker’ Misnomer

The spotted harlequin snake, scientifcally identifed as Psammophylax rhombeatus and widely known as the spotted skaapsteker, is a slender and mildly venomous snake indigenous to southern Africa. This species is widely distributed, inhabiting a variety of environments ranging from grasslands to rocky areas – including Val de Vie Estate. Contrary to its name, which translates from Afrikaans

to English as “sheep attacker”, the snake’s occasional presence near livestock is more incidental than indicative of any hostile intent towards sheep. Despite the misleading name, the spotted skaapsteker primarily feeds on smaller vertebrates such as amphibians, lizards, and small rodents. While its venom is not considered harmful to humans, it proves highly effective in subduing its prey.

The black goshawk is a local migrant, which means that they will often migrate to fnd the perfect habitat or to fnd food. Juveniles are the most likely to fy into a new habitat entirely, but there is no defnite migratory season.

The conservation status of the black goshawk is Least Concern. The only real issue this species faces is deforestation, however, they easily adapt to other habitats like agricultural farmlands. Climate change has led to uncontrollable wildfres that continue to destroy their favourite habitats of dense vegetation, which might prove detrimental to the species in the near future.

Did you know?

The spotted skaapsteker features a brown to olive-green body adorned with prominent dark spots or blotches. This striking colouration aids in camoufaging the snake within its natural surroundings.

This snake is diurnal, meaning it is active during the day, and it is often found basking in the sun or hiding in vegetation.

Its habitat spans a diverse range, from savannahs and grasslands to arid regions with sandy soils.

The spotted skaapsteker lays eggs, typically in the summer months. The female coils around her clutch to provide protection until the eggs hatch. The young snakes are independent from birth.

While the venom of the spotted skaapsteker is not considered harmful to humans, a bite may cause mild swelling and discomfort. However, bites are rare, as this snake is generally docile.

THE GRAPEVINE IS PUBLISHED ON BEHALF OF VAL DE VIE MANAGEMENT (PTY) LTD

VAL DE VIE ESTATE

+27 (0)21 863 6100 | info@valdevie.co.za valdevie.co.za | @valdevieestate

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Directory

VAL DE VIE ESTATE

HOA Enquiries 021 863 6128 hoa@valdevie.co.za

On-Site Sales & Rentals Offce

Val de Vie Properties 021 863 6105 property@valdevie.co.za

Polo polo@valdevie.co.za

Equestrian & Stables yard.manager@valdevie.co.za

L’Huguenot Venue & Vinoteque 021 867 8847 orders@lhuguenot.com experience@lhuguenot.com

ViLLAGE Deli downtoearth@villagedeli.co.za 021 876 9112

Polo Pavilion by Back’s 087 821 1068 polo@backs.co.za

Sela Vie Restaurant 021 863 6185

Back’s Deli 021 300 6993 hello@backs.co.za

Val de Vie Construction 021 863 6127 kobus.rossouw@valdevie.co.za

Building Control Offcer 021 863 6100 | bco@valdevie.co.za

Ryk Neethling Learn To Swim School 073 458 3890 valdevie@learntoswim.co.za

Val de Vie Lifestyle Centre & Pearl Valley Gym gym@valdevie.co.za

The Yard Gym 081 438 4442

Events marketing@valdevie.co.za

Marketing marketing@valdevie.co.za

Val de Vie Evergreen Reception 021 001 3581

Water/Electricity 021 807 2557

Traffc Department 021 872 4755

Paarl Tourism 021 872 4842

Franschhoek Tourism 021 876 3603

Post Offce

Rembrandt Building, 57 Lady Grey St, Paarl 021 872 5337

Drakenstein Municipality General 021 807 4500

Drakenstein Waste Removal Queries 021 807 4708

Voltano Electricity 086 186 5826 / 021 863 6109

Voltano App Related Queries 086 186 5826

PEARL VALLEY JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE GOLF COURSE

Pearl Valley Reception 021 867 8000

On-Site Sales Offce

Val de Vie Properties (Golf Clubhouse) 021 863 6105 property@pearlvalley.co.za

The Valley Restaurant & Bar 021 867 8046 restaurant@pearlvalley.co.za

Back’s Restaurant & Deli at Pearl Valley Hotel by Mantis 021 300 6992

The Golf Shop 021 867 8045

Estate Security Control Room / Offce 021 867 1201

controlroom@pearlvalley.co.za

OBSESSION REVEALS ITSELF

After thousands of meticulous sketches and clay models, our obsessive nature led us to the perfect grille for the all-new Lexus RX. Crafted to fl ow seamlessly into the RX’s dynamic shape, the spindle grille was transformed into an audacious spindle body. This architecture-inspired design feature is just one of many unparalleled details you’ll uncover in the all-new Lexus RX.