THE VILLAGE

NEWS

18 MARCH 2022 YOUR FREE COPY

Next issue of The Village NEWS: 25 March 2022

More than 500 people made their way down to the Old Harbour in Hermanus to enjoy the FynArts Sunset Concert on Saturday evening. Read more on P5.

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

Anti-poaching efforts renewed Writer Hedda Mittner

ducts aerial patrols.

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Temporary bases have been set up in Gansbaai (Uilkraalsmond), Hermanus and Onrus from where land and sea patrols can be launched swiftly and in more directions than in previous years. “The main goal of Operation Corona is to deny poachers access to the sea,” said the municipality in a statement.

peration Corona is in full swing after the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), SA Air Force, SA Navy, South African Military Health Services and the Military Police Agency were deployed to the Overstrand on 24 February to help combat the poaching of abalone and rock lobster, and related crimes. Joined by Overstrand Municipality's Law Enforcement, CapeNature, South African Police Services (SAPS) and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE), illegal maritime activities are being targeted from the air, on water and on land. They are supported by members from the Maritime Reaction Squadron with an Oryx helicopter which con-

Lt Col Adriaan Lotriet, SANDF Staff Officer for Operations, confirmed that this deployment is conducted under the mandate of the SANDF, with the responsibility of safeguarding the maritime border. SANDF, with the assistance of above-mentioned role players, will obtain situational awareness and prevent any boats and divers in the area proceeding to sea to conduct illegal activities.

"The success of this operation will not be measured by the number of arrests made and the number of poached maritime resources confiscated, but by the fact that we, while deployed along the Overstrand coast, will restrict poaching activities and disrupt the status quo of the poachers," said Lotriet. The good news is that SA Air Force and Navy elements have not only been deployed along the Overstrand, but also along the Cape coast from Lamberts Bay to Cape Infanta under Joint Tactical Headquarters Western Cape. On Thursday 10 March, Overstrand Municipality's 'partners in crime' showcased their training, skill and commitment to the fight against the growing level of crime in the area.

Held in Gansbaai and Kleinbaai, the procession of the Operation Corona Maritime Media Day included the Deputy Mayor of Overstrand, Lindile Ntsabo, councillor responsible for crime prevention, who had the opportunity to observe a trooping from an SA Air Force Oryx helicopter deploying soldiers for a rapid Vehicle Control Point (VCP), and to board a Namacurra harbour patrol boat from the Navy for a patrol. When welcoming the SANDF and other role players to the Overstrand last month, Executive Mayor Dr Annelie Rabie had expressed her appreciation for putting into effect an operation to ensure that the illegal harvesting of our marine resource does not continue unabated. “For more than 20 years the illegal harvesting has been a serious breach of the safety of many

people living along the coastline,” she said. “There is consistent pressure on the limited law enforcement capacity of the Overstrand Municipality to ‘do something’ about the anti-social behaviour that accompanies the illegal harvesting. We trust that this stay of the SANDF will bear fruit.” Any incidents of illegal poaching of marine resources can be reported to the DFFE on 028 313 2703 (Hermanus) or 028 271 4768 (Kleinmond); CapeNature 082 453 0835; SAPS Hermanus 028 313 5300, SAPS Kleinmond 028 271 8200, SAPS Stanford 028 341 0601 or SAPS Gansbaai 028 384 0201. Any illegal activities taking place within the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) can be reported to the Hermanus Harbour Master on 028 312 2609.

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

18 March 2022

Firefighters rally to contain wildfire Writer Hedda Mittner

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ith the fire season still in full swing in the Overberg despite the cooler weather, it’s been another week of high drama – this time in the Stanford / Gansbaai area. The fire started on Walshacres farm just off the R43 near Stanford last Friday afternoon, 11 March and by the evening flames and heavy smoke could clearly be seen from Hermanus.

the fire had been contained. Mayor Annelie Rabie issued a statement that said: “The cool and rainy weather is definitely in our favour. All lines are cold.” Most of the fire-fighting units returned to their headquarters, while Working on Fire, Overstrand Fire Services and CapeNature remained on the scene to extinguish any hotspots. Approximately 1 800 ha had burned and the mayor said a detailed assessment would be conducted.

PHOTOS: Overstrand Municipality & Wortelgat Outreach Trust

Overstrand Fire Services rushed to the scene and a Black Hawk helicopter was deployed in an effort to quell the fire. Greater Overberg FPA (goFPA), landowners, CapeNature, Overberg Wildfire Volunteers and Overberg District Fire Services were also assisting with fighting the fire, although access was difficult in the dense vegetation. By 23:00 that evening the fire was already out of control, fuelled by a strong wind.

(Code Red refers to a fire that poses an immediate threat to the safety of people and structures.) It was expected that the fire would cross the R43 and a third helicopter was requested to provide wider aerial support. Due to the westerly wind pushing smoke across the road, travelling on the R43 was limited.

arrival of ‘spike hour’. The spread of the fire over the R43 and defending Die Kop and all four active lines was very challenging. We are grateful for all the support received, and the continuous hard work and resilience demonstrated by the teams on the lines,” Municipal Manager Dean O’Neill said in a statement.

The fire was burning on Walshacres, Wolwefontein and the CapeNature Walker Bay Reserve, with the head of the fire having reached the dunes on the reserve. A spotter plane was requested for first light as it soon became apparent that this was going to be another multi-day fire.

At 15:30 an emergency evacuation order was issued by the Manager: Fire & Disaster Management for Die Kop informal settlement near Stanford and surrounding farms up to the Grootbos area. The assembly point for Die Kop residents was the Stanford Community Hall.

By Saturday the fire was still out of control and a Red Code was declared.

“Additional fire trucks and aerial resources had to be activated with the

“This was a very traumatic and trying time for all affected people – community members, firefighters and law enforcement (supported by the SA Defence Force). Infrastructure protection required the bulk of the aerial response. The poultry farms were at high risk from this morning till 18:00 on Saturday night. Environmental Services assisted with the moving of animals out of harm’s way and Medical

services were on standby and assisted with the evacuations.” Thankfully, by Saturday evening the status of the fire was 60% contained and the community could be moved back to their homes before dark. As a result of the fire, however, the R43 had to be partially closed due to a high voltage power line that was lying on the road. Power supply was interrupted all the way from Stanford to Pearly Beach and Eskom electricians were working overtime attending to electricity poles that had been damaged in the fire. The estimated time of restoration was Sunday evening around 20:00. The good news on Sunday was that

But that, alas, was not the end of it. On Tuesday a flare-up occurred which necessitated an immediate response from ground crew and aerial resources. Burning in dense rooikrans with limited access, the fire was once again burning out of control and spreading towards the Mierkom area in the Walker Bay Nature Reserve. At the time of going to print on Wednesday, the municipality said there was no threat to any infrastructure at this stage. At a tactical meeting held on Wednesday morning it had been decided that suitable anchor points would be created to confine the fire inside a block among the sandy dunes and fynbos. Landowners, CapeNature, Working on Fire and Overstrand Fire Services would remain at the scene and smoke would continue to be visible from fire burn operations in the Wortelgat area.

18 March 2022

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

Experience of a lifetime for Stanford local Writer Hedda Mittner

becomes an almost impossible task.

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At least the Antarctic conditions were nothing new to Charles. Originally from Pretoria, the 64-year-old pilot moved to Stanford with his family almost three years ago. He started his flying career in the South African Air Force in 1975, mostly flying helicopters. He later joined Ultimate HELI, which is part of Ultimate AVIATION, a company that specialises in performing air services for turn-key operations in remote, austere and challenging working environments.

he discovery of the wreck of the Endurance, the lost ship of Sir Ernest Shackleton that was crushed in the ice and sank in the remote region of the Weddell Sea in Antarctica in 1915, has made headlines around the world. The Endurance22 expedition brought together an interdisciplinary and international team of leading marine archaeologists, sea-ice scientists, engineers and technicians, who set out from Cape Town last month aboard the SA Agulhas II, one of the largest and most modern polar research vessels in the world. Apart from the 10 senior expedition team members, from the UK, France, Germany and South Africa, there were an additional 55 team members from around the globe, among them another 19 South Africans, including Charles Tait from Stanford, the expedition’s Chief Helicopter Pilot. “The Weddell Sea is mostly a vast frozen ocean of ice floes covering an area of between close to 1.5 million square kilometres in summer and 4.5 million square kilometres in winter. It is a harsh and unforgiving landscape. Shackleton described the graveyard of Endurance as ‘the worst portion of the worst sea in the world!’” said Charles when The Village NEWS managed to contact him on the SA Agulhas II, which was expected to make landfall in Cape Town on Saturday 19 March. Searching for a shipwreck at the bottom of the ocean has been compared to trying to find a needle in a haystack – and in conditions such as these, it

Apart from doing rotations in South Sudan totalling about 12 weeks annually, Charles has been on Antarctic flying duty for Ultimate HELI for the past four years – “so four consecutive White Christmasses for me!” he said. The Endurance22 expedition has taken his number of trips to the cold white continent to seven. But this is certainly one that he will not soon forget. “It is a great honour and privilege to represent our company and our country in this epic international effort,” he said. We can indeed all be proud of the key role that South Africa has played in the success of this expedition – not only is the SA Agulhas II owned by the national Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) – it’s used for annual science and logistics expeditions into the Southern Ocean and Antarctica – but the ship’s master, Captain Knowledge Bengu and his crew are all South Africans, as are the 10 Ultimate HELI aviation crew members, the SAWS meteorological team and a number of scientists and other expedition team members. Organised and funded by The Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust (FMHT), the expedition’s aim was not only to find

the Endurance and survey the wreck using state of the art technology but also to do important scientific research and uncover vital new sub-sea data. Because it is a Historic Site and Monument under the Antarctic Treaty, the Endurance22 expedition was allowed to survey and film the wreck but not to touch or disturb it in any way. Following an earlier, unsuccessful attempt to locate the wreck of Shackleton’s ship in 2019, The Endurance22 Expedition was the first to deploy SAAB Sabertooth underwater vehicles to search for the shipwreck. These hybrid vehicles combine the attributes of a Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV) – always linked to the surface – and an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) – capable of operating without such a link – and have the ability to reach sites up to 100 miles away from the ship from which they are launched and to return with photos, video and survey data.

ABOVE: Charles Tait from Stanford was the Chief Helicopter Pilot on the Endurance22 expedition which successfully located the wreck of Shackleton’s ship, Endurance, at the bottom of the remote Weddell Sea in Antarctica on 5 March. BELOW: The Bell 412 helicopter on final approach for the SA Agulhas II in the Weddell Sea. During the Endurance22 expedition Charles and his crew regularly flew groups of scientists out to ice floes to conduct their research, and would then return a few hours later to fetch them and bring them back to the ship. PHOTOS: Supplied

“We are overwhelmed by our good fortune in having located and captured images of Endurance. This is by far the finest wooden shipwreck I have ever seen. It is upright, well proud of the seabed, intact, and in a brilliant state of preservation. You can even see ‘Endurance’ arced across the stern, directly below the taffrail,” said Mensun Bound, Director of Exploration on the expedition. “This is a milestone in polar history.”

Charles Tait is no stranger to Antarctic conditions. He has made several trips to the Marion and Gough islands as well as the SANAE IV station in Antarctica aboard the SA Agulhas II, which he describes as “a floating hotel, scientific laboratory, hospital and helicopter carrier”.

Charles Tait will present a talk on the Endurance22 expedition at Birkenhead Brewery on the Walker Bay Estate in Stanford on Thursday 24 March at 17:00. The evening will include music and finger foods. Tickets are R225 pp and can be booked by calling 028 341 0183.

What happened to Endurance? It was Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ambition to achieve the first land crossing of Antarctica from the Weddell Sea via the South Pole to the Ross Sea. However, Endurance never reached land and became trapped in the dense ice pack in the Weddell Sea mere weeks after setting off from the whaling station on South Georgia in December 1914. It drifted in the pack ice for 10 months before it became crushed and had to be abandoned.

Before Endurance sank into the depths of the Weddell Sea on 21 November 1915, Shackleton and his 27-man crew offloaded as much as they could, including three lifeboats. After months spent in makeshift camps on the ice floes drifting northwards, hundreds of miles from land, the party decided to row to the inhospitable, uninhabited Elephant Island. Dragging the heavy life boats, they trekked to the edge of the sea ice, then sailed to the island where there were seals and penguins

to eat and a sheltered bay in which to camp under the upturned lifeboats. Leaving most of his crew on the island, Shackleton and five others then made an extraordinary 800-mile (1 300 km) open-boat journey in one of the lifeboats, James Caird, to reach South Georgia. From there they crossed uncharted mountains and glaciers to reach the Norwegian whaling station at Stromness to raise the alarm and mount a rescue. The first three at-

tempts were thwarted by the thick sea ice before the remaining expedition members were finally rescued from Elephant Island on 30 August 1916. Although Shackleton never reached the South Pole he attained even greater fame than Robert Falcon Scott who did, because he never abandoned his crew and was able to bring all his men home without the loss of a single life. It was indeed an epic feat of endurance. - endurance22.org

Lift, Contour & Rejuvenat e

PHOTO: F Hurley, Royal Geographical Society

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

18 March 2022

Hot engines and cool cars in Cape 1000 PHOTO: David Wilson

Car lovers streamed to Gearing's Point last Thursday to revel in the sight of the 36 beauties participating in the inaugural Cape Classic 1000 rally, which enjoyed a brief stopover in Hermanus. From elegant oldies to the latest petrol-guzzling sports cars, they offered eye candy for everyone. TOP LEFT: A line-up of some of the cars on show. TOP RIGHT: 'Little Bastard', a recreation of the Porsche 550 Spyder owned by actor James Dean. ABOVE LEFT: A recreation of a Bentley Special Racer 3/8 from the mid-20s, driven by Richard Webb. ABOVE MIDDLE: Grand Dame of them all, a 1988 Rolls-Royce Corniche. RIGHT: A 1956 Triumph TR3 owned by Arthur Wasserman (left). PHOTOS: Robin Malherbe

Writer Elaine Davie

T

he Mille Miglia, a fabled name in the world of vintage and classic cars was inaugurated in Italy in March 1927 as a road race over 1 000 miles. It was halted during World War II and re-established in 1947. Ten years later it was permanently shut down as a race, after two fatal crashes took the lives of 14 people. After that, it was transformed into a rally, within normal speed limits. In 1977, as the Mille Miglia Storica, it became a line-up of pre-1957 cars that took place over a period of several days, attracting participants from all over the world – until Covid, when international travel was abruptly curtailed. Now, as a tribute to the great event, a similar project, the Cape 1000 has been launched. The route, starting and ending at

the V & A Waterfront in Cape Town covers 1 600 km of some of the most scenic roads in the Western Cape over a four-day period. The organisers hope it will become an annual event. On Friday 10 March, after spending the previous night at Arabella, the 36 cars enjoyed a brief stop-over at Gearing’s Point, Hermanus, attracting a large number of ardent fans. Deviating somewhat from the Mille Miglia format, the Cape 1000 features four categories: Mille Miglia Specific or Tribute (1927–1957); Classic (pre-1977); Modern Classic (1977–1996) and Sports (1997–2021). So whether onlookers’ interests lay in the Chitty-chitty bang-bang type of vintage car, the regal splendour of a Rolls-Royce, the power of a modern Lamborghini or a sleek McLaren 720S, there was indeed something for everyone to marvel at.

Since my preference is for older cars I gravitated towards three truly stylish motoring icons: A Triumph TR3 in racing green, dating back to 1956, which actually took part in the Mille Miglia (along with three other cars in the line-up) in 2014; a recreation of a Bentley 3/8 Special Racer, and the grande dame, a 1988 Rolls-Royce Corniche tourer. Another eye-catcher, named ‘Little Bastard’ was a reincarnation of actor, James Dean’s Porsche 550 Spyder, in which he was to lose his life. The Bentley, driven by Richard Webb of The Archive in Cape Town, the Rolls-Royce with its leather seats and wooden dashboard driven by Pieter Venter, together with one of the Lamborghinis in the event are owned by the same collector. According to Richard, the Bentley is particularly interesting. “This UK-built recreation of the original is based on a Bentley Mark 6 chassis from the mid-50s, but

built in mid-20s style. The parts are all original and it’s officially recognised by Bentley.” All the drivers in the event had to be accompanied by a navigator and everyone was issued with sun block and an umbrella, which came in particularly handy for the open cars. In fact, Arthur Wassenaar, owner of the Triumph, mentioned that the car’s roof was kept folded up in the boot in case of inclement weather. According to Ross Crichton, one of the organisers, 60% of the cars were included in the Grand Touring category, sticking to normal speed limits, while 40% followed a rally regulatory format. “That means they travel at a reduced speed following prepared road markers, within a specified time frame, making a navigator absolutely essential.” Apparently applicants for the event

have to go through quite a rigorous approval process. As Ross pointed out, “We have cars here from all over the country, but we wanted it to be really special, with as many interesting, unusual and varied models as possible. Eventually, we’d like to attract overseas entrants as well.” One of the reasons the Western Cape was chosen is that “its roads are the best in the country – no potholes”. Yes well, I guess it wouldn’t do if one of these expensive thoroughbreds were to break an axle. If this inaugural run is anything to go by though, the Cape 1000 has a promising future to look forward to, yet another offering to enhance the Western Cape’s attraction as a tourist destination. A bonus is that these enthusiasts are just nice to be around, full of friendly bonhomie and good will, rare commodities these days.

18 March 2022

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

MY ART

FynArts kicks off on a high note M

Robin Malherbe for their photography, Dutchies for supplying supper boxes for the musicians and technicians, The Beanery, Burgundy Restaurant, Coca-Cola, Overstrand Municipality, Build it, the media and anonymous benefactors,” said Mary.

agical! Amazing! Spectacular! Uplifting! These are some of the comments received from those who attended the FynArts Sunset Concert at the Old Harbour on Saturday evening to celebrate the launch of the programme and ticket sales for FynArts10.

“And then to the stalwart FynArts volunteers who made up the welcoming teams and ushers. We are deeply grateful for your ongoing support. And a big thank you to the behind-the-scenes workers who carried down – and up! – 600 chairs, packed and loaded 410 goodie bags, acted as runners and did so many other essential jobs that make an event such as this possible.”

“The musicians, sound and lighting engineers and, of course, the two soloists, soprano Lynelle Kenned and our very ‘own’ tenor, Luvo Maranti, made the magic happen. Even the weather played its part and the strong wind that had been forecast did not materialise,” said Festival Director, Mary Faure. “However, it was the support of the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra and their sponsors, the Western Cape Department of Culture, Arts and Sport, that made it possible for FynArts to present this concert. Without their belief in, and support for, this FynArts celebration – and very generous funding – hosting such a concert would have been quite out of the question. We are deeply grateful.” Tickets to the event had sold out quickly and the audience was not disappointed. It could not have been a more perfect evening. As the sun went down after a hot day and a light mist rolled in from the calm sea, the air was filled with the

The audience was held captive by soprano Lynelle Kenned and tenor Luvo Maranti, the soloists who performed with the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra at the FynArts Sunset Concert in the Old Harbour on Saturday evening. PHOTO: Robin Malherbe

sound of the orchestra and the exquisite voices of the two soloists. Each sang several works including the popular duet, Brindisi (also known as ‘The Drinking Song’ from Verdi’s La Traviata), O Sole Mio (Luvo) and an aria from The Marriage of Figaro by Mozart (Lynelle). The orchestra, conducted by Brandon Phillips also performed a selection of light classics and pop, including the William Tell Overture, Pirates of the Caribbean and medleys

from The Lion King and District Six. Mary expressed her thanks to the Board and Management of the Old Harbour for their advice and backing and also to FC Hamman Films for visually capturing this historic event. As soon as the film has been edited it will be placed on the FynArts YouTube Channel. “Thank you also to our other sponsors, including Marguerite Jones and

Programme booklets for this year’s festival from 10 – 19 June, celebrating 10 years of FynArts, are now available. Once again, the 10-day programme is packed with performances, lectures, exhibitions, demonstrations and workshops, with special events for young people. You can pick up a booklet at Hermanus Tourism, the Municipal Library and Auditorium, any of the Hermanus First Fridays art galleries, and several hotels, restaurants and wine farms. Tickets are available on Webtickets, via the website (hermanusfynarts.co.za), at the FynArts Gallery, Hermanus Tourism or by calling Chantel Louskitt on 060 957 5371. – Hedda Mittner

Art galore at new Benguela Galleries Art lovers flocked to the Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate for the opening of their first exhibition in their newly launched gallery space on Saturday afternoon. The exhibition, titled ‘The Art of Living: Visit, Reflect, Explore and Experience’ features 30 South African artists showcasing pieces in a wide range of contemporary styles and mediums. The exhibition was curated by the new gallerist Charlene Uys, who completely rearranged the space (which used to be a barrel cellar) and added a new gallery hanging system with proper gallery lighting. Owner of Benguela Cove, Penny Streeter OBE, opened the exhibition calling it a “jaw-dropping exhibition arranged by Charlene” which “showcases everything that is amazing about South Africa and its artists”. Charlene says: “My vision was to create a space where the viewer will have a joyful experience. A place where you can escape the reality of this sometimes cruel, crazy, but also beautiful world. It’s a happy place where you’ll find peace and be able to reconnect with your inner child. The artworks evoke feelings of happiness,

joyfulness, playfulness, serenity, freedom and hope.”

The Bot River Estuary forms the background to Anton Smit’s 7-metre bronze sculpture called ‘Faith’. See more photos online.

Saturday also saw the official opening of Anton Smit’s 7-metre bronze sculpture at Benguela Cove called ‘Faith’ – something he says is very important in our lives. Anton spent over a year in the foundry creating this magnificent sculpture, which has a strong stainless-steel support holding it in place. It was in 2007 that Anton came up with the idea of making a universal sculpture that symbolises human strength and the power to believe in a better future – in other words, to have faith. He has since made different versions of the Faith sculpture in a variety of materials and sizes that are on display in several public and private venues both in South Africa and abroad. As with the others, the Faith sculpture at Benguela stands with its head back and its arms open looking up at God. Benguela Galleries is now open every day from 10:00 – 14:00 and entry is free. Various artworks are also displayed across the estate and all the art is for sale. For more information visit www. benguelacove.co.za/benguela-art-gallery.

No need to choose ... Between, pizza, skaapstertjies, smoked carpaccio, skilpadjies, camembert in phyllo pastry, loaded nachos and other tasty temptations. All cooked on a Weber. Order for the table, tuck in and enjoy. Or, if you can resist the impossible, order small, give yourself a day’s break and come back to try out what you’ve missed. Oh, and we don’t mind if you don’t use the cutlery, but you’ll be sipping your wine from a Skapie glass. Tuesdays to Fridays. 11h00 - 15h00. To book a table call 028 316 1875 or just pop in. Lekker Eet!

Monday to Friday 09:00 – 17:00 | Die Markie (Saturdays) 09:00 – 14:00

17 Village Lane Hemel en Aarde Village Hermanus 028 316 1875

PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

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THE VILLAGE NEWS THE VILLAGE

NEWS THE TEAM DE WAAL STEYN Publishing Editor

HEDDA MITTNER Content Editor

[email protected] 083 645 3928

MARKETING & SALES CHARÉ VAN DER WALT

EDITORIAL COMMENT

Give peace a chance

Forget about Putin giving peace a chance: he’s going to continue pounding maternity homes, kindergartens, and nuclear power plants in Ukraine until the whole country is flattened and its entire population has either fled or been killed. In consequence, famine-ravaged communities around the world will receive no wheat and petrol prices will soar. So if not our leaders, who is there to prevent the planet from being sucked into a vortex of nuclear implosion, global warming and out-of-control viruses? Alarmingly, that would be us, perhaps not on a mega scale, but in little, everyday ways, with ripples spreading outwards. Tolerance is what it’s about; learning

Marketing & Sales Manager

18 March 2022

to respect the humanity in others, even if we don’t like them; understanding that we aren’t always right; building communities in which we share resources and can live peacefully side by side, despite differences in lifestyle, customs and spiritual beliefs. As well as a fully-functional natural environment, we need each other in order to survive. Everything is connected; everything must be in balance. Take our baboons, for example. Towards the end of last year, Scarface, the alpha male of the Betty’s Bay troop was killed; last month, the next in line, Brutus, was shot and had to be euthanized, and only a week ago an elderly troop member was so badly savaged by a dog, in the owner’s presence, that he also had to be put down.

Seemingly, the community of Betty’s Bay is not prepared to give peace a chance. They are at war not only with the baboons, but also with one another, unable or unwilling to set ego aside and find a solution that will bring them into harmony with one another, and with nature. Polluting our rivers, our oceans, the air that we breathe, cutting down our forests, trafficking our wildlife – all this violates our planet and, in turn, threatens our own survival. In a different context, next time we pick up our phones to tweet an enraged or vituperative comment, we may want to think twice. The same goes for spreading misinformation, which could have disastrous consequences for many, including ourselves.

Do we consider the way we drive on our roads, the casual prejudice shown towards the ‘other’ and the quick and easy business rip-off? In contrast, when we reach out to young people with inadequate education and little chance of employment, we give peace a chance. Their sense of hopelessness has a direct impact on all of us. Indeed, if the Covid pandemic has taught us anything, it is that we are all equally vulnerable. So we can celebrate a greater awareness of the welfare of our neighbours, if for no other reason than that in the long run their peace will inevitably be ours. This is the good NEWS

When stars come out to play

[email protected] 082 430 1974

JOURNALISTS ELAINE DAVIE

Journalist

[email protected] 084 343 7500

PRODUCTION & DESIGN TAYLUM MEYER

Photography & Layout Design [email protected] 084 564 0779

ILANA VAN DER MERWE Graphic Design [email protected] 062 170 1455

ADMIN & SOCIAL MEDIA BARBARA HAYN Admin & Social Media

[email protected]

By Murray Stewart [email protected]

H

is first gig as a broadcaster was on a local Indianapolis radio station doing interviews, spinning discs and making fun of weather reports. He was only 22, and since then he steadily climbed the media ladder to the very top, where he dominated the Late Night TV market in America for decades. Meet David Letterman – writer, comic, producer, talk-show host and above all, rather wealthy. Like $400 million wealthy. Apart from his regular interviews and chats with silver-screen celebs, business tycoons and rock stars, he would invite a few of the more colourful ones to come back on a later show and recount their top ten likes, dislikes or quirky tips. These segments were obviously preplanned which gave the celebs time to reflect and refine their top tens, so on their return the show would run smoothly – without uhms and aahs and ponderous… pauses.

Among his choices were some

household names. Jerry Seinfeld, Al Pacino, Barack Obama, Snoop Dogg, Homer Simpson, Mick Jagger and Tony Soprano all had cameos where they could vent their frustrations, recount their highlights, or impart words of wisdom from their decades of experience. Some sentiments were predictable because of who the person was, while others were surprising – also because of who the person was. Mick Jagger had a few rather interesting observations during his segment titled Some things I’ve learned from 55 years in rock ‘n roll. Next year he’ll be 80, and he’s still playing live gigs with those stones who are still rolling. This is commendable and disturbing at the same time. Once upon a time, rock music was played by youngsters to irritate the oldies. Now, it seems, it is sung by the oldies to embarrass the youngsters. Jagger, however, disputes this in his segment, which we’ll get to later. “For a start,” said Sir Mick to the packed TV audience, “at live concerts, nobody wants to hear anything from your new album.” They all clap and

laugh in agreement. Why bother with the new stuff? It’s simply not as good or memorable as the oldies. He went on to lament the fact that “you don’t earn a cent in royalties when someone does a song about having moves like Jagger”. I’m sure Maroon 5 chose the character carefully. Although our Mick is not choreographically blessed, they weren’t likely to have a #1 hit singing about having moves like Barry White. “Before shouting ‘Hi Seattle!’ make sure you’re in Seattle,” he continued. I can imagine all stadia must have looked the same to them when they emerged in a purple haze and high as a kite from a gloomy backstage. The bright lights and hysterical hordes could come from anywhere – Wembley to Wuppertal – so short-term memory loss or internal GPS malfunctions were understandable. His next suggestion could apply to any celeb who is regularly mobbed. “A good way to keep yourself entertained is to sign every tenth autograph ‘Doris Goldblatt’.” The audience laughed hysterically, but those

autographs must be worth a small fortune these days – if you can prove that Jagger actually signed them. He also had advice for rock bands in particular. “Be considerate towards other hotel guests – trash your rooms before 10pm.” Then, with a cynical smirk and a quirky twinkle in the eye he looked directly into the camera. “Everybody you meet after you become famous,” he said with a straight face, “is only interested in you as a person.” The audience hoots and jeers knowingly. But despite undergoing heart surgery a couple of years ago, he’s still strutting the boards and abusing microphones. Which is why his last observation in his cameo aptly describes the fundamental psychology behind most of the rock bands from the ‘60s and ‘70s. “You start out playing rock ‘n roll so you can have sex and do drugs. But you end up doing drugs so you can still play rock ‘n roll and have sex.” We wish Sir Mick well in his pursuit of some or all of the above. And to Dave Letterman, Lang may yer lum reek (Voorspoed).

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18 March 2022

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

LET'S TALK

Farewell, Melanie Moore A group of friends hosted a farewell picnic at the Hermanus Cemetery last week for Melanie Moore, who spearheaded the ambitious project to beautify our town’s cemetery over the last six years. With Melanie leaving Hermanus, this revitalisation project will sadly come to an end but she expressed the hope that the Hermanus community would keep up the good work that turned this neglected and degraded area into a place of beauty and tranquillity. “A cemetery tells its own story about a town and its people. It deserves to be preserved and cared for,” said Melanie. “Before I leave I’d like to thank everyone who was willing to help by contributing their time and ideas, by donating plants, compost etc, and rolling up their sleeves to water, weed and tend to the garden. Without your assistance I would never have been able to achieve what we did together.”

Afdaksrivier Nursery – a wonderful surprise

Be considerate and respectful

We’ve been living in Hermanus for some time and often heard about a nursery just off the R43 on the Karwyderskraal Road, but had never been there.

How unfortunate and saddening to read the statement by the Overstrand Executive Mayor, regarding the at times rude behaviour of municipal officials towards the public, as well as the verbal abuse municipal officials sometimes need to endure (Council's first hundred days in office, The Village NEWS, 4 March 2022).

We recently took the short drive to the Afdaksrivier Nursery, which is located just 600m from the R43. We were encouraged to go on a Wednesday as there is a mini-market from 09:00 to midday every Wednesday with sales of mainly foodstuffs. We bought some delicious homemade quiches and pies at very reasonable prices. The Nursery is set in expansive grounds and has an enormous selection of every plant imaginable – from annuals to perennials, to bushes and trees, as well as compost, potting soils etc. The undercover area housing the plants is well laid out with a series of inter-leading paths. We bought a range of flowering perenni-

als, at reasonable prices. A surprise were the three rooms in the main building filled with all sorts of bric-a-brac, where one can browse and maybe pick up something interesting for your home. In winter there is a fireplace in one of the rooms, with comfortable chairs in which to relax. The Nursery has a kitchen where you can order various refreshments, including teas/coffees and cakes etc. There are wooden benches under the trees on the lawns outside,

where you can sit in peace and enjoy whatever you’ve purchased. There is a farm right next door with goats and chickens, a delight to see especially for children. Plenty of parking is available. Perched on a hill, the views from the Nursery of the Benguela Cove vineyards and across the Bot River lagoon to the Kleinmond mountains are beautiful. Well worth a visit! Mobile number for enquiries: 082 652 1794 or [email protected] Donald Fraser Bett

The internationally known author, Salman Rushdie, looks critically at modern man, and comes up with the alarming phrase: “a culture of offendednesss”. He came to the conclusion that human beings had previously defined themselves in terms of what they love – but no longer, as modern man seems to define himself in terms of his offendednesss. To quote Rushdie: “Classically we have defined ourselves by the things (and by implication, the people) we love. But, in this modern age, we’re asked to define ourselves by hate. What offends

you, is what defines you. And if nothing offends you, who are you then?” To me, this observation does not only provide food for thought, but highlights the need for all of us to look into the mirror, and ask ourselves whether mankind has, on the whole, become too self-important and self-obsessed – and hence an easily offended race. In this regard, Salman Rushdie’s hard-hitting observation resonates with the view of the prominent Buddhist teacher, Akong Rimpoche: "We have to change our patterns of reacting to experience. For your problems do not lie in what we experience, but in the attitude we have towards it." These astute observations, by two prominent and present-day thinkers, call us all to introspection – and alert us to the need to be considerate at all times, as well as respectful in our behaviour towards others. Theo de Wet Fynbos Park

Supplementary valuation roll Bridge is back! The first supplementary valuation roll for the financial year 2021/22 is open for public inspection until 20 April. Residents could lodge an objection in respect of any matter reflected in, or omitted from, the previous supplementary valuation roll. Objections must be in relation to a specific individual property and not against the supplementary valuation roll as such. The form for

the lodging of an objection is obtainable from the Municipal offices at the following addresses:

• • • •

Hangklip-Kleinmond: 33 Main Rd, Kleinmond (028 271 8400) Hermanus: 1 Magnolia Street, Hermanus (028 313 8000) Stanford: 15 Queen Victoria Street, Stanford (028 341 8500) Gansbaai: Main Road, Gansbaai (028 384 8300)

Property owners can also go to the

municipal website www.overstrand.gov.za, click on Documents, Strategic Documents, and then click on Property Valuations. The completed forms can be emailed to enquiries@overstrand. gov.za on or before 20 April 2022. For enquiries please contact Johette Basson on 028 313 8000 or send an email to enquiries@ overstrand.gov.za.

Killing of baboon ‘will happen again’ Re the recent shooting of Brutus the baboon. As tragic as this is, the reality of the situation is that residents will not sit by passively while their properties are damaged, possessions trashed, children traumatised and pets injured or killed. Due to the successful lobbying of

the municipality by various baboon huggers, HWS has not been allowed to use all non-lethal methods at their disposal to keep baboons out of residential areas. HWS must be allowed to deal with baboon incursions as best they can and not be subjected to constant

criticism from certain people who live in a never-never land where baboons and humans live happily together. Time for a reality check as incidents like this will happen again. Noel McClune

Yes, the Hermanus Bridge Club is back playing face-to-face bridge again. It is a very friendly club that caters for all levels. The sessions are held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons, starting at 13:00. Bridge is a card game that provides social interaction and stimulates the mind. It is especially beneficial for the retirees of Hermanus. Non-members and visitors are welcome. With Covid

measures in place and the club having a duty of care to players, proof of vaccination must be presented at the first visit. Refer to the website: www. bridgewebs.com/hermanus or email [email protected] or call Jane on 082 682 2587 for more information. Ian Holdsworth, Chairman: Hermanus Duplicate Bridge Club

Thank you for caring, CMC On Thursday night my heart started racing, I began sweating heavily and became short of breath. My daughter phoned Critical Medical Care (CMC) who arrived within minutes. The very first thing the paramedic did was put his hand on my shoulder and reassure me. The caring shown in that small gesture was incredibly comforting and needed. I was experiencing an anxiety attack. After doing the necessary checks and

confirming that the ECG was fine, the paramedics stayed with me until my anxiety subsided. People struggling with mental health so often carry a sense of shame and deep embarrassment but the compassion and kindness shown by the paramedics, Dewald and Almon, was completely without judgment. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to them. B Meyer

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

FRANCES

18 March 2022

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THE VILLAGE NEWS 23

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WHAT’S ON

OVERBERG 18

FRIDAY

Hermanus Hacking Group Volunteers are welcome to join the HHG and help clear alien vegetation along Rotary Drive, every Friday and Saturday morning. For more info contact Charlyn on 082 558 8731 or [email protected]. To join the Saturday group, contact Frank on 082 870 1187 or [email protected]. Rotary Drive | 06:45 for 07:00 – 09:00 (Fri) & until 10:00 (Sat) Friday Morning Market Hosted by Gansbaai NG Kerk, this fun-filled market offers lovely fresh, home-baked goodies, from jams to cookies and much more, every Friday morning. Pretorius Hall, Gansbaai Main Rd | 09:00 –11:30 U3A Overberg Talk Join the U3A for the final lecture in a series on Battleships through the Ages: ‘Battleships of the US Navy in the Pacific and Thereafter’ by Rod Pringle. Catholic Church Hall at 10:00 Kolwyntjie Teetuin Enjoy a sweet or savoury treat with tea or coffee for only R40, and make new friends at the Onrus Care Centre (Dienssentrum), every Friday morning. Onrus Dutch Reformed Church | 10:30 – 11:30

1000 or [email protected]. The Marine | 17:00 – 19:00 Twilight Family Fun Run Run or walk the fairways of Hermanus Golf Club and return to enjoy a night market with live music, food and wine. The entry fee is R75 for adults, R50 for scholars and free for pre-school children. Tickets are available from Hermanus High School’s financial secretary, Jacky Booysens, and also from Vodacom in the Whale Coast Mall, Smart Toys, De Jagers and Land & See in Hermanus. For enquiries, contact Marelie on 084 516 3463. Hermanus Country Market | Registration from 16:30; the run starts at 18:30. Night Ride for Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse This fun/social night ride is hosted in aid of this year’s Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies. Come and support them for a cash donation of R50 pp (or more) and enjoy a relaxed 12 km ride (Hemel-en-Aarde Blue Route) with regular stops for a chat and to make sure the group stays together. A decent light and helmet are essential – participation is at own risk. Village Cycles, Hemel-en-Aarde Village | meet from 19:00; ride sets off at 19:30

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SATURDAY

Betty’s Bay parkrun The whole family is welcome to join this free, timed 5km run/walk, every Saturday morning in beautiful surroundings. To register visit www. parkrun.co.za/bettysbay. Harold Porter Botanical Garden | 08:00 – 10:00 Groeneweide parkrun Bring the whole family and the dog for this free, timed 5km run/walk, every Saturday, come rain, shine or public holiday. Groeneweide, Franskraal | 08:00 Hermanus parkrun For all the ‘fast and furious’ as well as the ‘slow and steady’ – experience the joy of exercising outdoors in a safe environment. Forest Adventures, Camphill Rd, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley | 08:00 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 Friday Food & Wine Sundown Join Benguela Cove for their Sunset Soiree, every Friday afternoon. Wine down with a glass of award-winning wine while enjoying a gourmet platter, music, and sunset over the lagoon. Special offers for on-site consumption only are available between 18:00 and 20:00. Book at benguelacove.co.za/upcoming-events/ or call 087 357 0637. Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate | from 16:00 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. Stay for dinner that same evening and get a 10% discount. Booking is essential on 028 313

Oskars Antique Market Browse for treasures at this vibrant antiques street market every Saturday morning. You’ll find a wide range of collectables, antiques and vintage clothes while enjoying a hearty breakfast or a cuppa coffee or tea at Oskars Deli & Bakery in this trendy, upgraded precinct. High Street, Hermanus | 08:00 – 13:00 Springfontein Hands-on Harvest Springfontein Wine Estate is celebrating their 20th vintage with a fun-filled day on the farm. In the morning you’ll gain first-hand experience at what it takes to be a winemaker; from hand-picking grapes in the vineyards to barefoot pressing in the cellar. Then enjoy the rest of the afternoon under the ancient oaks, chilling with live music, wine tasting and a traditional South African braai. The all-inclusive cost is R350 pp. Book via Facebook or contact [email protected] or 078 582 9836. Springfontein Wine Estate | 09:00 – 17:00

Hermanus Country Market A favourite among the locals: young, old, two-legged and four-legged family members are all welcome. You’ll find an array of fresh organic produce, wholesome foods, home-made delicacies, arts & crafts, plants and flowers, beers and wine, coffee and live music – everything that’s good for your health and happiness! Next to Hermanus Cricket Field | 09:00 – 14:00 Die Markie, Hermanuspietersfontein Saturdays… no better time and place to relax and catch up with family and friends than the smallest little market in Hermanus. Share a platter and a bottle or help yourself to a brekkie, brunch, or lunch. Tap your feet to the beat of the live background music and chill! Wear your mask, sanitize, energize, and enjoy a Slice of Life. Hermanuspietersfontein Wynkelder | 09:00 – 13:00 Gansbaai Farmers & Craft Market Specialising in fresh produce, homebaked foods and crafts. Come and enjoy entertainment and refreshments at this popular kuierplek. For enquiries, contact 028 384 1439 or doulene@ gansbaaitourism.co.za. Kapokblom St, opposite Gansbaai Tourism | 09:00 – 13:00 Stanford Saturday Morning Market Come and sample the artisanal delights on display, from home-made sheep and goats’ cheeses to woodfired ciabattas, pastries and pies, charcuterie, farm-fresh vegetables, freerange eggs, flowers, preserves and deli delights (including gluten-free, wheat-free and vegan goodies) to tantalise your taste buds! Stanford Hotel Stoep | 09:00 – 12:00 Junktique Market One man’s junk is another man’s treasure. Pop in and give new life to a previously loved item. Treats and nibbles will also be available. R50 per stall. To book contact 028 341 0340 or [email protected]. Stanford Tourism Office Courtyard | 09:00 – 12:00 Kleinmond Beach Market Join this ‘local is lekker’ market for some weekend fun, with a variety of stalls, ping-pong table and other games. Vendors are invited to book their spot at only R50 for both Sat & Sun. Contact Nydia on 072 935 1616. Kleinmond Main Beach | 10:00 – 16:00 (Sat) 10:00 – 14:00 (Sun) Seasonal Harvest Lunch Join Benguela Cove for their annual harvest lunch led by cellar master, Johann Fourie, where you can step into the world of winemaking while enjoying delicious food and award-winning wine. Unlock some of our winemakers’ secrets as you walk through the vines and get the chance to learn more about what happens behind the scenes. Tickets at R500 pp include welcome drinks, a hands-on harvesting experience, wine tasting, lunch and wines. For more info and to book, go to benguelacove.co.za/upcoming-events/ Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate | 10:00 – 14:00 Gansbaai Coastal Clean-up Gansbaai Tourism is doing their part in saving our planet, and everyone is welcome to join them. All bags, datasheets, pencils, gloves, etc will

18 – 26 MARCH 2022 Send your events to [email protected] be provided; just bring along something to drink to keep you hydrated. You’ll be working in groups of two per data-collection sheet. To RSVP or for more information contact Doulene Els on 082 841 1670 / 028 384 8307 or [email protected]. Meet at Stanford’s Cove | 13:00

timed and receive medals and there’ll be lucky draws too. Prizes for the top 3 men and top 3 women in both routes, and for the best Instagram pic of your run. Enter at www.raceday.co.za. For more info contact Japie on 082 443 3033 or [email protected]. Wildekrans Wine Estate | 07:30

Panthera Africa Sunset Visits Come and enjoy the evening with your loved ones as the sun sets and the cats come alive after a long day of rest! Sunset is a magical time of day at Panthera and only 20 places are available for this unique experience. Pre-bookings only at R490 pp (no U16s). Contact 071 182 8368 or info@ pantheraafrica.com. Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary (near Stanford) | 18:00 – 20:00

Overberg Quilters Guild Anyone with a passion for quilting is welcome to join the guild at their monthly meeting. For more information contact Yvonne Kruger on 082 291 1854. De Wet Hall, Roos St, Onrus | 09:00 for 09:30

C’est Ça Hands-on Cookery Classes Chef Lindi’s next class is ‘Fresh from the Sea’ – perfect for anyone who loves seafood and wants to gain more confidence in cooking fish as well as acquiring knowledge about shopping for, preparing and presenting fantastic seafood dishes. Bring your friends or a family member for a social cooking experience, learn many great tips for entertaining inspiration, then sit down and enjoy your own meal. The cost is R600 pp and numbers are limited. To secure your place or for more info call Renée on 082 892 2557. Please bring your own drinks as no cash bar facilities are available. C’est Ça Cookery, 38 de Villiers Street, Onrus | 18:00 – 22:30

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SUNDAY

L2L Practice Walk This will be the last practice walk for the second group of L2L Ladies who will do the main walk from 6 – 10 April. The 20 km route starts at the Denys Heesom coastal trail starting point at Main Beach, Betty’s Bay and follows the coastal path around Stony Point to Silversands Bay, and from there to Sea Farm Private Nature Reserve and back to Main Beach. Duration: approximately seven hours, including three rest stops. Meet in the parking lot at Betty’s Bay Main Beach | Registration at 06:30; walk starts at 07:00 March for the Penguins A 5 km ‘more fun than run’ family event which is untimed, so whether you waddle, walk, wander or run, just be sure to have fun. Bring family and friends, babies in prams and dogs on leashes and remember to wear your penguin best. This year’s march is along a wonderful route on Lomond Wine Estate and once you’ve finished, why not join their harvest festival? There will be prizes for the best ‘penguinfied’ outfit, the best ‘penguinfied’ family or group, the best waddle impressionist and the biggest smile. Tickets at R80 for adults and R50 for children U12 are available online at Quicket, at Lomond Wine Farm, and at African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary. Lomond Wine Estate | 08:00

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MONDAY

Human Rights Day Run Celebrate your Human Right to Run at the beautiful Wildekrans Wine Estate outside Bot River on this public holiday. Choose between a 5 km and 10 km route at R175 pp. All will be

U3A Overberg Talk Join U3A for the final lecture in this series on medical issues: ‘The history of Anaesthetics’ by Prof Mike James. Catholic Church Hall | 10:00

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TUESDAY

Hermanus Hacking Group Join the HHG in clearing aliens in the Hermanus Heights and Fernkloof areas. The group meets every Tuesday morning at the open plot in Selkirk Street. Volunteers are welcome to contact Quentin on 083 655 2692 or [email protected]. Hermanus Heights | 06:45 for 07:00 – 10:00 U3A Overberg Talk Episode 5 of The History of Britain by Simon Schama is entitled ‘King Death’. It took only six years for the plague to ravage the British Isles. Its impact was to last for generations. But from the ashes of this trauma an unexpected and unique class of Englishmen emerged. Catholic Church Hall | 10:00

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FRIDAY

U3A Overberg Talk U3A presents ‘Frontier Land - Exploring South Africa’s Eastern Cape’ by Dr Dean Allen. One of South Africa’s most captivating regions, the Eastern Cape is a land of rich history and delightful people. This fully illustrated talk will take the audience on a fascinating journey to forgotten towns and tell the stories of the people and places at the heart of this wonderfully diverse province. Catholic Church Hall | 10:00 Beaumont Port Stomp Spend the evening with Beaumont Family Wines, stomping their famous Cape Vintage under the Bot River stars. There will be delicious food, free-flowing wonderful wines and the talented Steel Band Project to keep you moving! Bring some old clothes and lots of energy. R650 pp incl dinner and wine. Limited tickets available, so book now via beaumont-family-wines.myshopify. com or contact [email protected] or 028 284 9194 to book. Beaumont Family Wines, Botrivier | 18:00

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SATURDAY

BADISA Oggendtee Kom geniet ‘n oggendtee wat jou liggaam en siel sal verkwik met motiveringspreker Lizette, ten bate van BADISA. Kaartjies teen R100 pp kan bespreek word by 067 182 4211. Daar sal ook gelukkige trekkings gedoen word. Grobbelaarsaal | 10:00

18 March 2022

11

THE VILLAGE NEWS

Wine Auction in aid of the elderly T

he Benevolent Food & Wine Auction evening held in the Grobbelaar Hall on Friday 11 March in aid of the Hermanus Senior Centre, Huis Lettie Theron, Sofca and Hermanus Hospital was a resounding success. Not only did the event raise approximately R240 000, but such a great time was had by all that Ilze Peters-Cloete of the Hermanus Senior Centre says it looks set to become an annual event. Guests were greeted with a welcoming glass of bubbly before taking their seats at the beautifully decorated tables, while Takura Terry added to the ambience with his folksy, bluesy tunes. The three-course meal, prepared by well-known local chef Tullishe le Roux and her team comprised a starter of

purple fig and black forest ham salad, followed by a main course of beef fillet with a beef jus, fondant potato, roast butternut with saffron and marinated beetroot with feta cream. Between all this heavenly food, wine connoisseur, blogger and food and wine writer Emile Joubert started the wine auction, which consisted of 26 lots of premium labelled wines, luxury accommodation, and food and wine experiences. There was also plenty of wine on the tables to keep up the generous spirit of the bidders, who supported the auction with remarkable enthusiasm. More than one bidder gifted their winning lot to be re-auctioned. At the end of this most successful,

and enjoyable, auction, guests tucked into the dessert of vanilla panna cotta with a berry compote. Ilze says she is overjoyed that the evening went so well and raised such a substantial amount of much-needed funds to help the Overstrand care for its elderly. “Both the auctioneer, Emile Joubert and Alwyn Liebenberg of Lieben Wine & Spirits, who assisted with organising the auction, have said they will be back next year.” Ilze extends her heart-felt thanks to all her colleagues at the Hermanus Senior Centre, Huis Lettie Theron, Sofca and Hermanus Hospital who put in so much effort to organise this event in only three months. “It was a real team effort,” she says. “Thank you, ladies, we did it!” – Hedda Mittner

Gayle Smith (Sofca), Annarie Nel (Hermanus Senior Centre), Jennie Vorster (Sofca), Ilse Lourens (Hermanus Hospital), Ilze Peters-Cloete (Hermanus Senior Centre), Dommanice Beeton (Huis Lettie Theron), Charmaine BAurger (Hermanus Senior Centre) and Lizel Kuchar (Hermanus Senior Centre).

Alwyn Liebenberg of Lieben Wine & Spirits, auctioneer Emile Joubert and Emul Ross, winemaker at Hamilton Russell Vineyards. PHOTOS: Taylum Meyer

Beachcombing, Kleinmond-style O ne Saturday, about a month and a half ago, residents were surprised to see a little grove of tents spring up under the trees beside the lagoon in Kleinmond. The Beach Market was putting down roots. The brainchild of Nydia Carelse (right), born and bred in the town, the initiative was an attempt to ameliorate the high unemployment rate there, post-Covid lockdown.

“I was working in Cape Town, but when I came home, I was shocked to see how people were struggling, especially the elderly and the youth. I wanted to encourage them to become entrepreneurs, to make use of their hands to create marketable products. I felt if they could do that, it would re-ignite a spirit of hope in them. And that’s how the market started.” Around 85 stall holders now participate, quite a few from out of town, and they rotate, so that about 25 are accommodated each week.

Most of the products are hand-produced, like merino and alpaca knitting yarn, beautifully-made slippers in shwe-shwe fabric for children and adults, hand-knitted soft toys, wooden artefacts, fudge, plants and many more. Also included are bric-a-brac, second-hand books and clothing,

and the usual market fare. Nydia says she would like to see this initiative add value to Kleinmond’s tourism potential. She is excited to be setting up a store in which market goods will be available during the week as well and welcomes applications from other crafters in the area.

The beauty of the Market on the Beach is that children can play on the playground equipment nearby while their parents shop, and then they can all go for a swim afterwards. It is open from 10:00 –16:00 every Saturday. For more information, call Nydia on 072 935 1616. – Elaine Davie

12

THE VILLAGE NEWS

18 March 2022

MY ENVIRONMENT

Celebrating 10 years of Renosterveld conservation FAR LEFT: The Trust was founded by Dr Odette Curtis-Scott in 2012. ABOVE: A pretty Renosterveld species called Cyphia digitata, which flowers between July and October.

Sunset over Haarwegskloof Renosterveld Reserve. This reserve was bought by WWF South Africa, and the management thereof handed over to the Overberg Renosterveld Conservation Trust. This is the largest stretch of connected Renosterveld left on earth.

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n 2012, the Renosterveld of the Overberg had a helping hand for the first time, when a small Trust with big dreams launched. Now the Overberg Renosterveld Conservation Trust (ORCT) turns 10 years old. For founder and Director, Odette Curtis-Scott, this is a dream that seemed impossible 10 years ago. “I still can’t quite believe it and have to pinch myself to remember this is real. We have made major inroads towards protecting Renosterveld over this time.” Renosterveld is the richest bulb habitat on earth, but is also one of South Africa’s most threatened ecosystems. Since the advent of farming technology, in particular the plough, 95% of Lowlands Renosterveld has been removed and replaced for agricultural development. The 5% of Renosterveld that remains is severely fragmented – with patches situated on private land in valleys and on hills too steep or rocky to plough. Odette says, “When I first started spending time in Renosterveld, I saw

there was a big gap that needed to be filled. At the time, few farmers saw the value in their Renosterveld, which was seen as the ugly sister to Fynbos. That’s what we’ve really focused on during these 10 years – showing farmers the incredible diversity and life that exists in these patches.”

deed restrictions. In return, the ORCT provides assistance with habitat restoration and management, which can include clearing of invasive alien vegetation, fencing to improve livestock management on the veld, erosion control and ecological burns, among others.

A mission with a difference According to Prof Muthama Muasya of the University of Cape Town, the ORCT has one major difference from most other non-profit organisations. “The approach to conservation taken by the ORCT is one which is towards conserving the ecosystem, as opposed to approaches that look at a particular species, like the rhino. The ORCT is therefore conserving not only what we know above the ground, but also below the ground, and the interaction of the complexities of the ecosystem.”

Farmer Dirk van Papendorp, who has been Chair of the Trust since its inception, says this support to farmers is the foundation for success. “I am sure that as a Trust we are doing the right thing working with landowners. This is how we’ll bring about change.”

A game-changer for the Trust came with the launch of conservation easements, a mechanism which gives support to farmers to protect their Renosterveld, by signing title

Already 20 conservation easements have been signed, with around 6 000 hectares now protected via title deed restrictions. But this is only the beginning. Odette says, “My vision is to one day see our easement signage across all farms in the Overberg with Renosterveld on it. I’d love to see landowners looking at the bigger picture, looking at their farms as part of a bigger landscape where it’s clear that everything you

do impacts on everything else.” Supporting Renosterveld research The ORCT has also made other important inroads. In 2014 they were given the management responsibility of Haarwegskloof Renosterveld Reserve by WWF South Africa. Haarwegskloof is home to the largest connected stretch of Renosterveld left in the world. Odette and her team converted the old farmhouse into a research centre for students to study this ecosystem, and then converted an old dairy into a self-catering guest house for visitors. In 2020, after 5 years of research, the first Renosterveld field guide was launched, called the ‘Field Guide to Renosterveld of the Overberg’. Odette co-authored the guide, which not only showcases thousands of plant and animal species, but also seeks to raise awareness of the plight of Renosterveld. To add to this, the ORCT is now developing the world’s first Renosterveld herbarium, based at Haarwegskloof, in order to collect every known species found within the Overberg’s Renosterveld.

As an iconic Fynbos and Renosterveld-dependent species, the ORCT is working to protect Black Harriers. This endemic, charismatic bird of prey is listed as Endangered, with only around 1 300 mature individuals remaining in the world. The Trust is placing satellite tags on breeding adults, to learn more about their foraging habits and their use of the landscape. Here’s to another 10 years Odette says, “We could not have done any of this without our farming partners, nor the supporters and donors who have provided such vital backing over these 10 years.” Still, much work remains. For Dirk van Papendorp, there’s so much reason to continue this mission. He says, “You’re a better person after you spend time in Renosterveld reconnecting with nature.” And as the ORCT’s Conservation Manager, Grant Forbes, says, “We are working against the clock. If we don’t continue to act, Renosterveld could be lost forever.”

Be pleased to take notice that Neline Burger, ID no: 5210050114081, intends making application to the Commissioner of CIPC to the re-ins ta tement of Fyrfald CC, reg no: 1986/013762/23. B e p l e a s e d t o t a ke n o t i c e further that any objection to the application must be lodged with the Commissioner of CIPC within twenty one (21) days of the date of publication hereof.

20 Hope Street, Hermanus 7200 Tel: 028-3130741

18 March 2022

13

THE VILLAGE NEWS

New Geotrail opens in Gansbaai T

he newly developed Geotrail based at the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS) in Gansbaai provides a learning adventure which takes the observer from the very beginning of our planet, right up to the present day. It is a wondrous 4.6-billion-year tale of fact, woven around the geology, the rocks of our home, the evolution of life, mass extinctions, and the wonders of the Earth. You are taken from the fiery birth of our planet along the journey of creation by means of a 46-meter rope, representing 4.6 billion years, with signposts along the length. These boards share with you the major events in the life of the Earth and explain in easy-to-understand text what took place to shape our current globe. The Geotrail was conceived and developed by Mike Dormer of the Overberg Geoscientists Group (see Rock around the Overberg in The Village NEWS of 18 Feb), executed and erected by the Dyer Island Conservation Trust with the support of Wilfred Chivell and Susan Visagie. “The aim of the display is to expose and educate our community in Gansbaai, our tourists, and especially children, to the wonders of geology, as a hobby, and perhaps even as a career,” says Mike. “This also creates an additional reason to spend more time in Gansbaai and environs, and proves the

Overstrand is not only about whales and wine,” adds Wilfred, founder of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust. “We want to educate people about our environment so that they will ultimately better protect it for future generations.” Mike says, “Geology is a fascination, a lifelong interest, and answers questions like where to plant our food, where to mine for gold and critical ‘green minerals’, where to find diamonds, rubies and emeralds. Where would we be without the ever-broadening understanding of the vast resources beneath us? What if we didn’t understand the structures and faults of the earth around us? I hope this Geotrail will encourage more curious minds.” The intellectual property has been researched and given freely by renowned authors such as Geologists Bruce Rubidge and Terence McCarthy, among others. The artwork has been carefully researched and faithfully reproduced in the info-graphics, with Gilbert the Shark Geologist guiding you along the journey. More information on the geology and evolution of the fascinating Overberg region will soon be available on the under-construction Overberg Geoscientists Group (OGG) website. Alongside the Geotrail, there is an evolving rock-garden that focuses

on the 600 million years of local geological history. Here visitors will find signposted samples of rocks commonly encountered around Gansbaai and environs. As time progresses and samples are added, the rock-garden will expand. “This rock-garden will provide answers to some of those nagging questions you may have about ‘What type of rock is that, what is the rock called, where is it from’ and so forth,” says Mike. “We are surrounded by a jewel box of rocks, every moment of our lives. There is provision for an extended garden to accommodate rocks from further afield, so if someone has a piece of gold bearing Witwatersrand conglomerate in the back garden, I would be happy to classify it, signpost it and install it in the garden!”

The new Geotrail In Gansbaai takes visitors on a learning adventure that reveals the wonders of our planet.

With over 100 active and retired geoscientists in the greater Overberg area, more Geo-heritage and Geo-tourism developments are planned by the OGG for the region. These will include similar Geotrails, some guided, on Clarence Drive, the Hermanus Cliff Path, the Hemel-enAarde Valley, and at Klipgat Cave at De Kelders.

PHOTOS: Dyer Island Conservation Trust

The display is open, free of charge, to all visitors, at the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary in Gansbaai and is well worth the visit. Afterwards enjoy cake and coffee at the facility. Penguin feeding time can be observed at 15:00. APSS is open daily from 09:00 to 16:00.

22

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

18 March 2022

18 March 2022

17 15

THE VILLAGE NEWS

MY WELLNESS

The world’s deadliest killer is rife in the Overstrand T he Coronavirus has made people around the world aware of the consequences of a highly infectious disease. Yet, many people are still unaware that the world’s deadliest infectious killer, tuberculosis (TB) is rife in the Overstrand. It is therefore necessary to raise public awareness of the devastating consequences of TB.

World TB Day on 24 March marks the day in 1882 when Dr Robert Koch, a German physician and microbiologist, announced that he had discovered the bacterium that causes TB, which opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease. The theme of World TB Day 2022 is Invest to end TB. Save lives.

TB is highly contagious, and if undetected can spin out of control, affecting all sectors of the community. It is estimated that 80% of inhabitants in the Western Cape carry the TB bacteria.

One case that came to SANTA (South African National Tuberculosis Association) is that of a young unmarried mother of two children, aged 12 and 5. She has no income, no home, and weighs 35 kg. With the support of SANTA Hermanus a food parcel was supplied to help her and her children survive. In the meantime the 5-yearold has contracted TB. The child will have to be admitted to Brewelskloof, a specialised TB hospital near Worcester for the Cape Winelands (East) and Overberg districts in the Western Cape, for full MDR treatment for 12 months.

The devastation caused by TB, and especially when it develops into the multiple drug resistant (MDR) strain is heartbreaking.

SANTA is a volunteer community-based NPO which was established in 1947. Throughout the year Overstrand TB healthcare workers of the

Global efforts in the fight against TB have saved an estimated 66 million lives since 2000. However, Covid-19 has reversed years of progress made in the fight against TB. In 2020, for the first time in over a decade, TB deaths increased.

Hermanus branch of SANTA, with the help of home carers, oversee patients taking their medication, and do TB screening of all the exposed contacts at the source patient’s home. Even friends who visit often are screened for TB symptoms. As a special effort to raise awareness on World TB Day, these healthcare workers will try to reach as many dwellings as possible through doorto-door screening and testing in TB hot spots in Hermanus, Kleinmond, Stanford and Gansbaai where TB had been detected over the past nine months. From 24 March to 24 April TB screening at the entrance to clinics will be intensified. At schools Grade 6 and 7

Eastcliff Village, 251 Main Road, Hermanus Tel: 028 312 4299 Hemel-en-Aarde Village, Sandbaai Tel: 028 316 2848

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learners will be informed of TB. Afterwards these learners will take part in a quiz with pens and pencil bags as prizes. A colouring-in competition is planned for after the school holiday, with primary schools of Stanford, Hawston and Mount Pleasant showing interest.

of TB and multi-drug resistant TB (MDR TB). This is very worrying. But, the Overstrand is also the only subdistrict that is supported by an outside party – SANTA. Thanks to SANTA the Overstrand can still fight harder against TB than any other subdistrict with limited resources.

Sometimes patients do not seek treatment in time. There are many reasons for this: They might be too sick to walk to a clinic or they cannot afford to miss a day off work and put themselves at risk of not getting paid. Furthermore, the stigma still attached to TB kills people because many patients do not want to be seen at a TB or HIV clinic.

SANTA Hermanus has been working for well over 20 years to reduce TB in the Overstrand. The initiatives include providing much-needed extra staff to assist the local clinics to improve the identification, treatment and education of patients. Eight TB healthcare workers are paid by SANTA. Patients defaulting on medication are visited at home.

It is vitally important to make these house calls, because many people who are sick do not know that they have TB. The result can be devastating. TB is an airborne disease. This means when a TB-infected person who is not on treatment, talks, sings, coughs or sneezes the bacteria are spread. Anybody in the vicinity can then develop TB, even after months or years, as long as 20 to 30 years later. However, it is important to remember that a person who is on treatment is no longer infectious. But, equally important: Every person who tests positive for TB and who is not on treatment, can infect 10 to 15 people.

SANTA Hermanus also strives to improve ways to make it easier for patients to understand the disease, funding tablet computers and the production of video material in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa.

The Overstrand, a subdistrict of the Overberg, has a very high incidence

“We at SANTA Hermanus believe that the Overstrand will soon return to having the best TB programme in the Overberg and Western Cape, as it did before the Covid pandemic played havoc in so many spheres worldwide. We will continue to support the hard work done by dedicated healthcare workers to combat this highly infectious killer disease in our subdistrict,” says SANTA chairperson Sue Holmes. - Colleen Naudé

18

THE VILLAGE NEWS

18 March 2022

Introducing the Morgan Super 3 FLOYD

ON CARS Compiled by John Floyd

T

he Morgan Motor Company recently unveiled the Super 3, one of the most intriguing and distinctive vehicles the company has ever built. Super 3 has been designed from the ground up to offer new levels of character, thrill and adventure, principles that have defined Morgan’s three-wheeled product since the company was founded 113 years ago. Like every Morgan, Super 3 will be built in Malvern, Worcestershire, at the company’s Pickersleigh Road factory. Skilled craftsmen and women have been handcrafting cars in these hallowed red brick buildings since 1914, just five years after HFS Morgan invented the first Morgan, known as ‘The Runabout’. With Super 3, Morgan introduces a new design philosophy. In comparison with the outgoing 3 Wheeler, which was created in the style of the 1920s V-twin-engined three-wheelers, Super 3’s designers and engineers have drawn influences from the mid to late century. The exact positioning of the engine, now car-derived and mounted in-board, within Super 3 is of crucial importance. Chosen in part due to its compact nature, the inline threecylinder block sits precisely behind the front axle line, delivering optimum weight distribution and desirable proportion. The latter is a key principle for Morgan’s designers, who determine it vital that the body of the car is visually towed by its front wheels rather than sat on top of them. Super 3’s face portrays two familiar headlights and a horseshoe front grille, both recognisable elements of Morgan design.

The sideblades also allow numerous luggage mounting options thanks to some uniquely designed universal fixings, also referred to as ‘accessory rails’. Owners can choose from a range of panniers and exo racks that are neatly fixed and secured to the sideblades. The minimalist dashboard features Morgan’s traditional centre-mounted dials, but for the first time in a Morgan they are fully digital. Their surrounds – available in both anodised black or silver finishes – are formed from metal, just like any touchpoint in the cabin, and are cold to the touch, giving a material authenticity. The engine start/stop button, inspired by the ‘missile release’ button on military aircraft, is carried over from the outgoing model. For the first time in Morgan history, the platform is a true monocoque, with stressed exterior ‘A-surfaces’ (as opposed to a unibody design found on most modern production cars, with bolt-on non-structural panels). Not only does this make for a lighter and more rigid chassis but also provides packaging benefits and gives more interior occupant space with no intrusion. In 1933, Morgan introduced the F-Type three-wheeler, which made the switch from V-twin power to a conventional Ford engine, housed under a bonnet. Almost a century later, Ford has again been chosen to supply the engine, specifically its innovative 1.5-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine. Powerful, efficient and characterful, it provides a combination of attributes which make it perfectly suited to its application in the Morgan Super 3. The engine is coupled to five-speed Mazda gearbox, as found in MX-5 and used in the outgoing Morgan 3 Wheeler. The bevel box has been re-engineered using a custom tooth profile, and it drives through a carbon fibrereinforced drive belt.

HISTORY HFS Morgan built his first three-wheeler in 1909, in the process founding the eponymous Malvern-based manufacturer. Three-wheelers would continue to be produced until 1952, over that time setting myriad records in racing and taking on adventures in some of the most extreme parts of the world. In 2011, Morgan would revive the three-wheeler with a version encapsulating the spirit of the early V-twin-engined cars. Notable was the introduction of a new variant in 1932, the F-Type, which featured an enclosed car-derived Ford engine in place of the original front-mounted V-twin, itself prophetic of a narrative that was set to repeat nine decades later. The original need for the F-Type was based on customer feedback, including customer demand for a third gear as well as reverse.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION Engine

Ford 1.5-litre, inline three-cylinder

Gearbox

Five-speed manual

Maximum power

118 bhp (87 kW) at 6500 rpm

Maximum torque

110 lb ft (150 Nm) at 4500 rpm

Acceleration 0-62 (0-100kph)

7 seconds (pending final certification)

Top speed

130 mph (209 kph)

Fuel economy (combined)

40 mpg (pending final certification)

CO2 emissions

130g/km Dry

Weight

635kgs

Length

3581mm

Width

1850mm

Height

1132mm

19

THE VILLAGE NEWS

18 March 2022

First Class with the Tiggo 8 Pro FLOYD

ON CARS Compiled by John Floyd

W

hen it comes to the flagship model range, it is First Class all the way. Chery takes a full set of luxuries as its starting point and then builds from there. Exterior design From outside, the striking three-dimensional grille is inspired by the stars in the galaxies. Two fully automatic matrix-LED headlamps with dual daytime running lights, called Tiger Eyes, flank the grille. The headlights connect to the rear lights through the shoulder line, which from the front to the rear of the SUV. Other unique design elements in this new Movement Design Tiggo 8 Pro, include subtle but striking satin chrome finishes across the lower air intake, which double as a strike plate, the fog lamps, grille, windows and lower door section. Add to these two load-bearing continuous chromed roof rails and a panoramic sunroof (added to the Executive model) and it is clearly a first-class SUV. Rounding off the design, Chery has added LED rear lights with dual fog lights and a high-mounted central stop light, illuminated threshold sills and 18” alloy wheels with a chrome and black design.

Interior design All major controls have been digitised in three separate screens. The first is the instrumentation panel, which is a large horizontal 12.3” highresolution screen. This screen not only displays the necessary vehicle information, but dynamically adapts to the driver’s needs and can display much of the infotainment and mobile phone information as well. A second screen, 8” wide, takes over all climate-control functions. It is worth noting that the climate control system is fully automatic, dual-zone and fitted with an N95-grade air purifying system as standard. Executive models further receive a third air conditioning system for the rearmost seats. Mounted in the centre of the dashboard and forming the heart of the vehicle controls is the infotainment system. This 10.25” high-definition floating multimedia display takes care of the audio controls, display from your mobile phone via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and the image from the reverse camera. Speaking of the infotainment system and central console, all Tiggo 8 Pro models offer wireless charging, intelligent voice control and crisp clear music through a SONY sound system with 8 surround sound speakers as standard. First class space and luxury All seven seats are leather clad on the Distinctive model, and should you opt for the Executive model, the trim is upgraded to black and brown leather with a modern diamond-stitched pattern.

All Tiggo 8 Pro models have a six-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory setting, and in the Executive model, the front passenger also receives four-way electrical adjustment and electrically adjustable lumbar support. The rear seats in both models fold completely flat in a 60:40 configuration. Aside from the ample space, Chery has ensured that all the creature comforts are taken care of. This includes adjustable rear seats, three USB ports throughout the cabin, a 12V charging port in front and a coat rack and armrest in the rear. No compromise on safety Standard across the range is the full list of safety features .This includes six airbags, Traction Control (TCS), Roll Stability Control (RSC), ABS brakes with (EBD) and (EBA) plus ISOFIX child seat anchors, rear park distance control (PDC), a rear-view camera with dynamic guides and a 360-degree parking view from its cameras mounted in the nose, rear and sides of the vehicle. The Tiggo 8 Pro further has auto-locking on drive, remote car locking and automatic window closing, tyre pressure monitoring (TPM), hill assist and downhill ascent control (HAC) an anti-theft alarm and keyless entry with a push button start as standard. To further enhance the driving experience in the Executive model, Chery has added a comprehensive, intelligent safety package as standard. This uses an array of complex sensors to offer Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Automatic Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking

(AEB), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSC), Intelligent High-beam Control (IHC), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSD), Front Collision Warning (FCW), an emergency Brake Override System (BOS) and a Door Open Warning and Prevention (DOW) system as standard. Chery Power The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro is powered by one of Chery’s award-winning turbo-petrol engines with direct injection and intelligent control. The 1.6 TGDI delivers a maximum power output of 145 kW at 5 500 rpm and a solid 290 Nm between 2 000 rpm and 4 400 rpm. The engine is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) delivering drive to the front wheels. 1-million reasons to buy As offered on its smaller sibling, the Tiggo 8 Pro, offers a comprehensive 10-year / 1-million-kilometre engine warranty. Only the original owner is afforded this warranty and it is not transferrable. A 5-year / 150 000 km general warranty is standard, as is a 5-year comprehensive roadside assistance plan. Chery will also offer customers a comprehensive 5-year / 60 000 km service plan as standard with its flagship Tiggo 8 Pro.

Pricing: Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Distinctive

R496 900

Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Executive

R546 900

The Tiggo 8 Pro is now available at 50 dealers nationwide

20

THE VILLAGE NEWS

18 March 2022

Peugeot 308 supreme winner of the WWCOTY FLOYD

ON CARS Compiled by John Floyd

T

he journalists of the Women’s World Car of the Year have chosen the Peugeot 308 as the World’s Best Car for 2022. The announcement of the winner coincides with International Women’s Day, a very special date because it gives women a voice and because of the link in many countries between the automobile and personal autonomy. Before casting their votes, the 56 women motoring journalists from 40 countries across five continents tested dozens of models and evaluated every detail. In the first round of voting, the best cars in each category were chosen from a total of 65 candidates. The winners were: • Peugeot 308 Best Urban Car • Kia Sportage Best Family SUV • BMW iX Best Large SUV • Ford Mach-E Best Family Car • Audi e-Tron GT Best Performance Car • Jeep Wrangler 4xe Best 4x4 In the second round, these finalists were used as the basis for the selection of the World’s Best Car 2022. “This year’s voting was closer than ever,” says Marta Garcia, executive president of WWCOTY. “The jurors had their work cut out for them because each of the candidates represented the best of their segment.” In the end, and after the scrutiny, the scales tipped in favour of the Peugeot 308, a model that some of the jurors have qualified as such:

“The Peugeot 308 is an automobile that offers just about everything you could want in a car. It drives very well and it’s hard to believe there’s only a 1.2-litre engine under the bonnet of most versions.” – Sandy Myhre, New Zealand. “It is a car in which the driver feels very comfortable. It offers a very pleasant atmosphere inside.” – Mélina Priam, France. “The most important thing for me is that it has a good mid-range performance and that its automatic gearbox is very smooth.” – Hoa Hguyen, Vietnam. “The 308 is not content with simply maintaining and consolidating its success, but is committed to surpassing itself, and it succeeds in doing so.” – Jimena Olazar, Argentina. “It is easy to drive even in the narrow streets of Japan. Its turbo

engine is extraordinary and quiet.” – Etsuko Kusuda, Japan. “Peugeot has been able to seduce families with a well-thought-out proposition and a very striking image, but also to win over those looking for different powertrains: petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and an EV coming next year.” – Carla B. Ribeiro, Portugal. “It is not an expensive dream car for the lucky few, but a car that most families can afford.” – Malene Raith, Denmark. “All in all, the 308 is a reliable and predictable car, without being boring. It steers directly and has a very short turning circle, which is ideal for the city. PEUGEOT has thought about the best driving position for the driver.” – Rowan Peperkamp, Netherlands. All voting has been verified by Grant Thornton, from their office in Auckland, New Zealand. This auditor has certified the results of the WWCOTY since its inception in 2009.

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4 BEDROOM EUROPEANCHIC FAMILY HOME R 4 500 000 KLEINMOND LOVINGLY RESTORED HOLIDAY HOME WHERE ONLY THE BEST FITTINGS AND FIXTURES WERE USED FOR THIS MASTERPIECE Kleinmond itself is located in the Overberg region surrounded by nature and glorious white sandy beaches, this little town has an exciting mix of outdoor experiences to offer residents and visitors, such as hiking, biking, golfing, tennis, bowls, caves, kayaking, rocky tidal pools; there is even a herd of wild horses that freely roam in the vlei of the Rooisand Nature Reserve. This stylish home with its neat and clean lines is a great place to entertain. The living area is open-plan, and it has a perfect flow that allows the outdoors in. During the summer months, the pool and outdoor living spaces allow an alfresco outdoor living that takes full advantage of the generous outdoor space with built-in braai. During winter, the Rolls Royce of close combustion stoves, an imported Dovre, heats the living areas perfectly and creates a warm and inviting space. A SMEG stove and extractor fan plus a fitted Bosch dishwasher compliment the designer kitchen with a state-of-the-art laundry, completing the picture. The main bedroom features a modern his and hers en-suite bathroom and a walk-in closet. The 3 additional bedrooms, set well apart from the main bedroom, all share access to the pyjama lounge and bathroom. All toilets are wall-mounted Hansgrohe, adding the perfect finish to the stylish home. Security comes in the form of Tailor aluminium shutters and an alarm system. This wheelchair-friendly property also offers a double garage and ample secure parking.

Web Ref: 2423450 Retha Snyman van Heerden | Candidate Estate Agent 082 456 7400 Registered with the PPRA

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22 16

THE VILLAGE NEWS

18 March 2022

MY ENVIRONMENT

Sensational Springhare superpower or fossorial (twilight) grazers that live in semi-arid areas. Springhares are mainly solitary, sheltering in their own burrows during the day and preferentially foraging individually in short-grass environments at night.

S

pringhares, or “Springhaas” in Afrikaans, are unusual animals. They look like a cross between a rabbit and a kangaroo, but they are neither. They are actually rodents. They have long, powerful hind legs with which they hop or leap. Their long sturdy tails are used for balance, and their forelimbs are short – just like a kangaroo. They are about the size of a rabbit and have rabbit-like ears and fur. There are two species of springhare. Both species are endemic to Africa: the springhare (Pedetes capensis) lives in southern Africa, and the East African springhare (P. surdaster) inhabits portions of Kenya and Tanzania. Both species are nocturnal PHOTO: Popular Science

Although short-grass environments provide springhares with minimal cover from predators, like mongooses and jackals, these open areas provide them with clear lines of sight for the detection of predators from which they escape by explosive leaps.

duced by each individual is unique to that individual, as its own colour-print. This phenomenon is called bio-fluorescence and it is caused by the presence of porphyrin molecules in the hair of the springhare. Porphyrins are also found in the feathers of some colourful birds like the turacos (Knysna loerie).

Springhare superpower

Fluorescent substances such as porphyrins are complex cyclical molecules that can absorb short (high energy) wavelength light (like ultraviolet), which excites the electrons in the porphyrins’ energy-rich double bonds.

However, Springhares also have a sensational superpower: They glow in the dark. In daylight they are a slightly patchy brown – but most attractive nonetheless. But wait until dark! If you are a predator with ultraviolet vision (such as an owl), you will see a riot of colour in pink, orange, red, and green.

Some of the light energy is retained, but as the excited electrons calm down again, the light is re-emitted as lower-energy, longer-wavelength light – in colours of pink, red and green, and some colours in between. This is fluorescence. If it occurs in living organisms, it is called bio-fluorescence.

Moreover, the colour pattern pro-

Bio-fluorescence is not the same as

So nothing very surprising here.

LEFT: A Springhare seen under ultraviolet light, revealing their sensational superpower: They glow in the dark! This phenomenon is called bio-fluorescence. PHOTO: Popular Science RIGHT: In daylight Springhares are a slightly patchy brown but after dark a predator with ultraviolet vision (such as an owl) will see a riot of colour in pink, orange, red, and green.

bio-luminescence. The former uses a molecule that absorbs UV light, which is then re-emitted at a lower energy wavelength. Bioluminescence is the production of light within a living organism by a metabolic process. It is produced by a chemical reaction between a molecule called luciferin, oxygen and an energy source, ATP. This reaction is catalysed by an enzyme called luciferase. The end result of this reaction is the production of a photon of light. But back to the springhare. Why would a springhare’s fur fluoresce? What is the evolutionary benefit of this strange superpower? Scientists are not quite sure, but it must obviously be to the animal’s advantage. It’s thought that the different colour patterns of bio-fluorescence may provide camouflage to make the springhare less visible to predators with ultra-violet vision such as owls. Sadly, the springhare’s superpower does not protect it from habitat destruction, climate change or hunting by humans.

PHOTO: Live Science

By Dr Anina Lee

The Springhare (Pedetes capensis) is a rodent that looks like a cross between a rabbit and a kangaroo. They have long, powerful hind legs with which they hop or leap. Note the subtle coat pattern. PHOTO: Encyclopaedia Britannica

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