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28 JANUARY 2022

THE VILLAGE

NEWS THIS IS THE GOOD NEWS

Hermanus High School was able to hold its first annual interhouse athletics day since the beginning of lockdown on Wednesday. Junade Pasensie from the green team flies over the hurdles followed closely by two competitors from the blue team. Read more on P 3. PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

Hermanus back on the map Writer Hedda Mittner

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ot only has Hermanus made it on to the Tourism Sentiment Index (TSI) of The 100 Most Loved Destinations in the World for 2021, but it’s clinched the #41 position, ahead of the Mother City at #54. Two other towns in the Western Cape also ranked highly, with Stellenbosch at #23 and Knysna at #19.

According to TSI, a travel data intelligence solution created by acclaimed destination marketing agency Destination Think, it is word of mouth that built this list, unprompted and unbiased. “Each of these 100 destinations has earned the love and an impressive Tourism Sentiment Score® during one of the toughest years the tourism industry has faced. They are Leading Places, and that's worth celebrating.” Welcoming the announcement last week, Western Cape Minister of

Finance and Economic Opportunities, David Maynier said: “For three Western Cape towns and the Mother City to be identified in the top 100 most loved places in the world – following a global consumer sentiment analysis – is an outstanding achievement. “The last two years will go down in history as the most challenging years thus far for the global tourism sector, and the rankings demonstrate that the Western Cape is a world-class destination and a firm favourite on the global travel bucket list.” Mayor Annelie Rabie said she was very pleased to see Hermanus claim its spot in the Top 50. “Hermanus continues to be seen as a sought-after location for visitors, and is one of the best places worldwide to holiday, work and stay," she said. Mayor Rabie thanked all the role players, especially in the tourism industry, for their contribution to this success and keeping Hermanus on the map.

Using cutting edge technology, TSI concluded the rankings through an intensive data study – analysing more than 1.6 billion online conversations and content pieces publicly available about 21 330 global destinations – to identify the 100 Most Loved Destinations. According to TSI, the Tourism Sentiment Score® has been purpose-built for destination marketing and is “the metric that the tourism industry has been missing since the dawn of the internet”. Whale Coast Tourism Manager Frieda Lloyd agrees that the Tourism Sentiment Score® illustrates just how important online conversations and comments are in reaching and exciting travellers all over the world. “It is heart-warming to see how many Hermanus enthusiasts, both visitors and locals, including businesses who are active on digital marketing platforms, have spread the love via digital word of mouth. Being ranked this high is quite incredible and the good news has

come just at the right time, as we exit the fourth wave of the pandemic and travel bans are lifted. “This accolade is a great marketing tool not only for the Whale Coast but for the whole of the Western Cape. It is clear that what is good for us is also good for other regions in the province, as visitors are inclined to visit more than one destination during their trip.” With the rankings confirming the destination's popularity globally, the Western Cape was also very popular locally this past festive season, with domestic visitor numbers tripling between November and December 2021. Gathering feedback from over 160 businesses from across the Province, Wesgro revealed that businesses recorded an uptick in local and domestic visitors. Passenger arrivals through Cape Town International Airport’s domestic terminal reached a high in December 2021, representing an

impressive 66% recovery rate when compared to the same period in 2019. International arrivals also performed well in October, reaching their peak in November 2021 with a 41% recovery rate. Although in December international passenger arrivals were less than a third of what they were in the same month in 2019, they grew by 28% when compared with figures from the previous year. “It has been encouraging to see the significant increase in visitor numbers at tourism landmarks in different parts of the province. Similarly, many businesses were able to recover some of their losses through the uptick in domestic visitors, which is very pleasing,” said Wesgro CEO, Wrenelle Stander. “Tourism is a key economic growth sector and job enabler. In collaboration with partners, we are constantly pioneering new ways to ensure that the Western Cape remains a world-class tourism destination.”

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 January 2022

Matric results cause for celebration PHOTO: Supplied

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

The top performing learner at Hermanus High School, Vion Wium (91.8% average) with the school's prinicipal Francois Hooneberg.

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

It is always an emotional occasion when the previous year’s matric pupils gather with family members and friends at their respective schools in January to receive their long-awaited results. Friday 21 January was no exception, as the matric class of 2021 had even more reason for joyous celebration after two most disruptive and challenging years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. There were plenty of relieved smiles, shrieks of surprise and even a tear or two shed as the pupils proudly shared their achievements with their loved ones. Read more about the 2021 matric results on P 5.

LEFT: Back, from left are Mrs Barbara Liefeldt (Vice-Principal of Northcliff House College); Adriaan Nel, Celesté Nel, Mr Gerhard Coetzee (Principal), Lukhanyo Ngane, Zion Baatjies. Middle, from left: Ciske Agenbag, Papadi Lieke, Nilene Roux. Front, from left: Sisipho Lifaba; Richard Southey. The matrics who were absent when the photo was taken are Brooklyn Brazier; Zukhanye Mqambalala, Khanya Sigwilli and Lerato Tsotetsi. ABOVE: The moment was almost too big for Priscilla Theunis when she received her daughter, Crystal’s matric results. Fortunately they were tears of joy and pride! TOP RIGHT: Three generations: Alice Eyberg (second from left) and her daughter Dedré Pedro went to Hermanus High to support Dedré’s son Connor Pedro (far left) and her younger sister, Zoe Eyberg (far right) who both wrote matric last year. Connor is hoping to study Human Life Sciences this year and Zoe has her heart set on studying Law. MIDDLE RIGHT: The Cambridge Advanced Subsidiary (matric) group at Generation Schools Hermanus: Tessa Marshall, Joshua Davis (the top student) and Jaden du Preez. This was the school's second matric group. RIGHT: Annamia Henn with Kerin Helmbold from Curro Hermanus, who came second with five distinctions. Kerin came in the Top 1% of all IEB students in Hospitality.

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

PHOTO: Tinka Swingler

Hermanus IGSCE learners top in Generation Schools in South Africa Generation Schools Hermanus is proud to announce their Cambridge International General Certificate of Education (IGCSE) results. The group attained a 100% pass rate with a total of 51 distinctions. The two top learners in IGCSE were Isabella Thompson who achieved 7 A-stars (over 90%) and Jenna Lees who achieved 4 A-stars and 2 As (over 80%). Generation Schools Hermanus was the top-achieving Generation campus in South Africa. Congratulations to the learners on these outstanding results. Back from left to right are: Nikki Malcomess (head of Generation Schools Hermanus campus), Ethan Haigh Newton, Nicholas Mohr, Beulah du Preez, Jenna Lees, Amy Taylor, Sarah Marshall, (front) Abigail Dixon-Warren, Isabella Thompson, Ruben Nell, Jeremy Lacob, Tyler Magerman and Frances Hamman. PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

28 January 2022

THE VILLAGE NEWS

School athletics: the heat was on! H ermanus High School and Curro Independent School Hermanus both held their annual interhouse athletics day this past week. Curro had theirs on Saturday 22 January, and although it was one of the hottest days in Hermanus, the athletes did their best both on and off the field. The school’s two houses, the red team (Mako) and the blue team (Orca) put their all into the cheerleading and singing, but it was the Orcas who took the spirit cup at the end of the day. After the field items were complete, the matrics had a celebratory swim in the school’s indoor pool. Due to the heat, the long-distance events were rescheduled and will take place on Tuesday 1 February. The overall winner between the two houses will be announced during Curro’s assembly on Friday 4 February. The school would like to thank all the parents, learners and teachers who helped to make this event a huge success. Hermanus High held their annual interhouse athletics on Tuesday and Wednesday. The last time they were able to hold this event was at the beginning of 2020 before South Africa went into lockdown due to Covid-19 restrictions. The learners were eager to participate,

and the morning began with each of the three teams’ (white, green and blue) optog followed by cheers to lift everyone’s spirits for the day. Each team chose a theme for the event – the white team chose Egypt, the blue team chose Rio carnival, and the green team chose the army.

Two new records were set on the day: the first by Chanté Roux in the U19 girls 1 500m. The previous record was 05:25.8 and her new record was 05:22.96. The second record was set by Daneel van Rooyen in the U17 boys discus. He set a record of 42.41m. By competing in the athletics events, the learners were able to earn points for their teams which were tallied at the end of the day on Wednesday. The green team won the athletics day with a total of 732 points, with the white team winning the Gees trophy and the blue team winning the Parade trophy.

Curro's two house, Mako and Orca, put their all into the cheerleading and singing, but it was the Orcas (cheerleaders pictured above) who won the spirit cup at the end of the day. PHOTO: Supplied

Learners from both Curro Hermanus and Hermanus High showed a high level of athletic skill, school spirit and sportsmanship throughout the duration of their athletics days. Well done to all the participants and good luck for the interschools athletics meets ahead. – Taylum Meyer For more photos of the athletics days, visit the schools' Facebook pages.

PHOTO: Supplied

ABOVE: Myburgh Serdyn and Chanté Roux holding the trophy after the green team won the athletics day. Chanté set a new record for the U19 girls 1500m. ABOVE MIDDLE: First aider Liv Johnson helps someone with a pulled muscle in between her field events.

Rahim Kombe from Hermanus High made the high jump look effortless as he continuously sailed over the bar. PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

LEFT: Despite the heat on Saturday, learners at Curro Hermanus continued to show their spirit throughout all of the field events. PHOTO: Supplied ABOVE: A Curro learner from the Mako team takes her turn in long jump. PHOTO: MG Photography

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28 January 2022

5

THE VILLAGE NEWS

2021 Matric class achieves remarkable results Writer Hedda Mittner

B

asic Education Minister Angie Motshekga announced the 2021 matric exam results on 20 January in Pretoria, with local learners in the Overstrand getting their results from their respective schools on Friday. “The Class of 2021 was the most affected by the Covid-19 pandemic because they had to endure two consecutive years of harsh exposure to the unrelenting Covid-19 pandemic,” said Motshekga. Notwithstanding the Covid-19 disruptions and educational challenges, the 2021 National Senior Certificate (NSC) matric pass rate has improved slightly by 0.2 percentage points, increasing from 76.2% last year to 76.4% in 2021. The Free State held on to its number one spot with a pass rate of 85.7%, which is a 0.6 percentage point increase over the previous year. Gauteng was second with a pass rate of 82.8%, experiencing a 1 percentage

point decline, followed by the Western Cape in third place with a pass rate of 81.2% – an improvement of 1.3 percentage points, from 79.9% in 2020. “I am absolutely delighted with the results of the Matric Class of 2021 in the Western Cape,” said WC Education Minister Debbie Schäfer. “Considering that the increase in our pass rate was achieved after two years of a global pandemic, makes it even more remarkable. “The Class of 2021 has had a tough two years. Their Grade 11 year in 2020 was marred by school closures, with their Grade going back to class later than many others. However, their matric year has been very stable, with more time in class than in other matric years. Our schools, districts and Head Office have put in extensive time and effort to prepare these candidates, from providing extra classes in the afternoons and on weekends, extra revision materials, online revision support, and a host of other measures. The results speak for themselves. “What makes our performance even

more impressive is that we had 6 076 extra candidates writing this year, which makes it more difficult to increase the percentage. Our retention rate from Grade 10 to 12 (those actually writing the NSC) – one of the most important education measures – has increased by 3.7 percentage points to 70.3% (our highest ever). We have also achieved our highest ever percentage of Bachelors passes, at 45.3% – the highest in the country!” said Schäfer. Overstrand Executive Mayor, Dr Annelie Rabie, congratulated all our matriculants on their wonderful results in the 2021 National Senior Certificate examination, as well as the Cambridge Advanced Subsidiary Level and International General Certificate of Education. Hermanus High, Curro Hermanus, Northcliff House College and Generation Schools Hermanus all boast a 100% pass rate. Gansbaai Academia achieved a 73.8% pass rate, Hawston Secondary 75.8% and Qhayiya Secondary School in Zwelihle 71.29% (up from 63.2% the previous year).

Hermanus High School was very pleased with its 100% pass rate and especially the 86% of candidates (132 out of 152) who achieved a Bachelor Degree pass (university exemption) and 186 pupils who achieved subject distinctions. A total of 19 candidates achieved A aggregates: Vion Wium (91.8%); Caleb Riordan (90.7%); Kara Slabbert (90%); Helena Nolte (89.2%); Kirsten Koen (88.7%); Mikhael van Baalen (88.4%); Shonay Oelofse (87.3%); Kirsten Sutherland (86.7%); Jordan Theron (86.2%); Naude van Dyk (86%); Hanno Scheepers (85.3%); Nielen Seldte (84.7%); Mia le Roux (83.5%); Mieke Ludek (82.7%); Chwayita Mananga (82.3%); Misha Horn (81.5%); Kian Carstens (80.7%); Francois Theron (80.3%); and Shannon Moody (80%). Northcliff House College was proud to be one of only four schools in the district to achieve a 100% pass rate. Out of their small class of 13 matrics, 10 achieved Bachelor Passes and a total of five subject distinctions. Celeste Nel attained an A aggregate with 80%. Curro Hermanus was also very

pleased with their 100% pass rate for learners who completed the IEB assessments. 96% of the Curro matrics received tertiary exemption, while 19% achieved A aggregates. The grade average was 66.32%. Their top learners are: Elizabeth Montgomery (89.57%); Kerin Helmbold (84.14%); Stephanie Hodson (83.29%), Marc de Villiers (80.86%); and William Howe (80%). Mayor Rabie said the learners’ hard work paid off and she celebrated all the top pupils as well as the individual achievements of each matriculant. “We would also like to acknowledge all the teachers, school governing bodies and family members who have put in hours of hard work throughout the year to mentor, support, and prepare learners and help them reach their full potential.” While extending her best wishes to them all for their future endeavours, Rabie also encouraged those who did not do well, not to lose hope and give up, but to give it another try or to explore other educational options within the system.

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THE VILLAGE NEWS THE VILLAGE

NEWS EDITORS DE WAAL STEYN Publishing Editor

HEDDA MITTNER Content Editor

[email protected] 083 645 3928

MARKETING & SALES CHARÉ VAN DER WALT

EDITORIAL COMMENT There was a time, almost forgotten now, when the teaching profession enjoyed a status up there with that of the local GP and the minister of religion. Like them, teachers followed a calling – not to drum facts into children’s heads, which they obediently regurgitated at exam time – but to facilitate each individual pupil’s physical, mental and emotional development. The relationship between teacher and pupil was one of mutual respect. Over the past 50 years or so not only has the standing of teachers greatly diminished in many communities, but the entire educational environment has changed almost beyond recognition, often to its detriment. Many teachers no longer view themselves as professionals, or the work they do

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An honourable profession as critically important for the future of the country; for them it is merely a job. Neither is the school itself, as it once was, hallowed ground. Now schools are burnt down or vandalised, they are robbed of their equipment, and pupils as well as teachers are frequently in mortal danger, both on the premises and outside. It is all the more remarkable and deserving of celebration, then, that here in our own communities, the standard of our schools is so high, not only in the results they achieve but in their ethos. Our dedicated teachers are worthy of the highest praise and recognition, especially in these trying times. The start of a new school year is a good time to remind ourselves of this.

There are developments in the education system we should, of course applaud, like the wide range of subject options open to our learners, the opportunities for children to express their own particular talents, be it in the classroom, in the sporting arena or through extra-mural activities. There is a caveat though – not all our schools are equally well-endowed. Some still lack libraries, science laboratories, sports fields: their successes are all the more remarkable. In recent years the needs of our youngest children are also at last being recognised, through the granting of government subsidies to registered ECD centres with properly trained teachers. For decades it was up to NGOs and private schools to keep the

flame alive and maintain pressure on government to accept responsibility for providing a firm foundation for learning and development at preschool level. Teacher training is, of course, the key to educational excellence. Without teachers of the highest calibre, the entire edifice collapses. We are fortunate in the Overstrand to have organisations dedicated to producing such teachers and who understand that it is not only in the classroom that education takes place but in mediated access to a world of knowledge. They, in turn, rely on the support of our entire community. Our children, our future. This is the good NEWS

There is a house in New Orleans

[email protected] 082 430 1974

TAYLUM MEYER

28 January 2022

By Murray Stewart [email protected]

Most readers will be familiar with The House of the Rising Sun, a lament about the perils – to both men and women – of being lured into the sordid underworld of houses of ill repute. There, according to the song, you’d spend your life in sin and misery – whether your mother had sewed your new blue jeans or not. Eric Burdon and The Animals made it globally famous nearly 60 years ago, and since then all youngsters starting to learn the guitar would strive to perfect the figure-picking style of the song’s opening arpeggios. Soon, they’d graduate to a plectrum for Smoke on the Water, and later still, to a combination of both pick and plec for Stairway to Heaven. Serious stuff. Anyway, early variations of the concept of The House of the Rising Sun – as a place to steer clear of – were being bandied about since the 1600s in England, France and later America. As with other ditties like Greensleeves and Scarborough Fair,

the composer is listed as ‘Traditional’, so the song evolved organically over time as different troubadours weaved their own spin to the woeful yarn. Oddly enough, these songs were performed in the very same bawdy pubs, sordid shebeens and dens of iniquity they were warning people to avoid. Depending on the circumstances and location, the song was sung by a male or a female about their own, or somebody else’s fall from grace due to gambling, prostitution or alcoholism. British emigrants took the song to America in the 1700s – initially to the Appalachians – and it later spread to the Southern states and became a popular African-American blues ballad. The most recognised version is thanks to our chum Eric having heard a rousing gospel rendition by Nina Simone about this establishment called The Rising Sun in New Orleans, owned by Madame Marianne Soleil Levant – French for rising sun. Sadly, it was closed down in 1874 due to complaints by the neighbours for some reason.

Many folk/blues artistes did their own covers, and Bob Dylan recorded a ‘folk-style’ version on his very first album in 1962. Google it and you’ll wonder how he ever got to record album number two. He really can’t sing – he whines and moans and whinges between wheezing asthmatically into his tortured mouth-organ. Anyway, a couple of years later, after he’d heard the electric softrock treatment by The Animals, Bob realised he could lay a rock rhythm behind an acoustic folk song, and Bingo! – Dylan went electric from then on. The Animals’ version – oddly enough – is a snappy waltz (6/8), unusual in the early rock era when we all flayed about at arm’s length from our partners. The concept of the lament is not unique to The House of the Rising Sun. In a similar vein, another famous song bemoans the fate of those who check into a certain hotel in California. Along a dark desert highway, there’s a shimmering light. Inside there’re mirrors on the ceiling and pink champagne on ice. Sounds

delightful, but a sultry voice warns: “We’re all just prisoners here, of our own device – you can check in any time you like, but you can never leave.” Like the Rising Sun, it‘s an extended metaphor about being entangled in the web of debauchery, alcoholism, prostitution, drugs and eventually self-destruction. Neil Young, not known to be pure as the driven snow, echoes similar warnings in his song The Needle and the Damage Done. “I hit the city and I lost my band. I watched the needle take another man. Ooh, ooh, the damage done… every junkie is like a setting sun.” Not quite the Rising Sun, but the message is the same. Sadly, the sun rose and set on many well-known musicians who didn’t heed the warnings in those songs. Hendrix, Joplin, Elvis, Prince, Winehouse, Houston and Jackson among others, all checked into the hotel, but could never leave. Their pursuit of a Purple Haze through Mother’s Little Helper, the Fruit of the Vine or the Devil’s Dandruff saw to that.

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28 January 2022

7

THE VILLAGE NEWS

LET'S TALK

Let’s look after our green belts After every year of living in Vermont I appreciate the green belts a little more. I don't think many of us are aware of how fortunate and privileged we are in living here surrounded by green belts. I have been cleaning alien vegetation/ trees from the main green belt that is bisected by Petrel Street for the last two years and am constantly in awe about how nature works and how it knows what it is doing, as long as we don't interfere with it. There are ‘roads’ everywhere – highways, secondary roads, rural roads and tracks occasionally used by all the animals, big and small, that are living here. All co-exist in total harmony with the environment, except for three things:

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Alien vegetation (five types) that are invasive, that is to say they will spread out of control unless they are removed. Secondly, house owners encroaching into the green belt with lawns, alien plants and even watering systems and using the green belt as a refuse dump. I am sure that this is done with no harm intended and without realising that they are upsetting the balance of what nature is trying to do. I looked into the municipal bylaws about this issue and there is nothing about encroachment or removal of the natural

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environment or any penalties. Thirdly, there are a few properties that have bright spotlights directed onto the green belts and the sea shore at night. This interferes with all nocturnal animals' life cycles. A classic example is a glow worm that cannot attract a mate in bright light. I understand the reasoning behind these spotlights is crime prevention or wanting to light up an area for the home owner’s enjoyment. However, it does not alter the disconnection between the majority of people and their natural environment. As we become more urbanised, nature is becoming more and more unimportant as trying to keep up with life takes most of our efforts and we do not have the time to enjoy the best psychologist known to man – nature!

I know from past experience that the removal of aliens is at least a fiveyear exercise. After the initial cutting down of the alien tree, the stumps must be poisoned or otherwise they just bounce back twice as strong. These branches have to be removed or mulched, otherwise they provide a shelter for the next generation of new aliens and make the next year’s removal of the seedlings far more labour intensive. Every year therefore it gets easier until after five years there are none. This is an expensive exercise and

Kindness beyond the call of duty When you walk into Onrus Manor Frail Care you feel it… You feel the kindness, compassion and extra care, from the heart. What Sister Christelle and her team have created there is just beyond words. Heartfelt care and commitment is what is given to each of the very fortunate residents at this unique frail care centre in Hermanus. Happy, professional staff and

carers (as well as pets), to cheer up the residents. This is one thing that cannot be faked. The daily activities and therapies really are world class. We are so thankful to Sr Christelle and all who work at Onrus Manor, looking after our elderly loved ones in such an amazing way. Makes one look forward to your senior years, for certain! Angie Krynauw

unfortunately there are no shortcuts. This is only one of the green belts and I estimate it to cost between R150 000 to R200 000 to clear it of aliens, if it was put out to tender. An invasive species that I have not mentioned is Kikuyu grass. It has spread in the top (northern) area of the green belt and when I first started clearing there, the only other vegetation still growing amongst it was Port Jackson trees. Nothing else grows where this grass is dense. Next time you walk on the coastal path in the Vermont area, between Vermont Avenue and Bitou Road car parks, you will see what I mean. While I'm on a roll, there is one more area that is really tragic to see. If you go along Vermont Avenue, up to the traffic lights on the R43, turn right towards Hermanus. Immediately on your left is a steep embankment which is riddled with Port Jackson and also pampas grass. A few years ago, a team of workers cleared all the aliens from these traffic lights to the next set at the turn-off to Chanteclair, without poisoning the stumps. What a futile waste of money! There was also no follow-up the next year. As this is the first thing motorists see when coming into Hermanus, it saddens me that instead of a fynbos

Vaccination sites 24 - 30 January Sites in Overstrand will be operational from 09:00 – 14:00 weekdays for Phizer and J&J shots. On Fridays, the Hermanus Auditorium will be open from 09:00 – 12:00.

• Hermanus Auditorium: Monday, Wednesday and Friday • Mount Pleasant Moffat Hall: Wednesday • Kleinmond Proteadorp Hall: Tuesday • Hermanus CDC: Tuesday and Thursday • Gansbaai Pretorius Hall (NG Kerk): Tuesday and Wednesday • Hawston Thusong: Friday • Stanford Community Hall: Thursday

welcome, visitors look at this denuded embankment. Behind this embankment is a large parcel of private land that burnt down a few years ago, which is now completely covered in gum trees. Behind that, on the first slopes of the mountain are areas of Hakia which is a type of pine bush. Three years ago I could walk along a path there to the poplar grove of trees further up the mountain, which was truly magical. I tried the same walk towards the end of last year and had to turn back after a few hundred metres. It is now impenetrable with its sharp needle-like leaves. With the next bushfire, this will go up like a petrol-fueled fire and the fynbos will be gone forever. I feel so frustrated that having reported our immediate green belt issues four times over the last year or so (encroachment into the greenbelts etc.) I am met with a wall of disconnect to the important issue at hand, namely the priceless green belts of nature right on our doorstep. I don’t think that people realise how lucky we are. Think about it, where else in SA does suburbia have so many green belts and if we can eradicate the alien vegetation, it will add huge extra value to our properties. Peter Wilson Vermont

Traffic offices’ operating hours Traffic offices in Kleinmond and Gansbaai will be open between 08:00 and 13:00 and from 13:45 to 15:15 on weekdays (i.e. Monday to Friday). In Hermanus, traffic offices will be open on weekdays (i.e. Monday to Friday) from 08:00 to 15:15. In addition, the Hermanus licensing and vehicle registration office will be open between the hours of 08:30 and 12:00 on Saturday 12 and Saturday 26 February 2022.

WHAT’S ON

OVERBERG 28

FRIDAY

Hermanus Hacking Group Volunteers are welcome to join the HHG and help clear alien vegetation, every Friday and Saturday morning. The group meets up at the grassy patch to the left of the entrance to Rotary Drive. 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 & Sat) Friday Morning Market Hosted by Gansbaai Tourism, this fun-filled market offers lovely fresh, home-baked goodies, from jams to cookies and much more, every Friday morning. Pretorius Hall, Gansbaai Main Rd | 09:00 –11:30

take place on the Village Green; if the weather’s tetchy it moves indoors at Birkenhead Brewery (with masks and social distancing). Enjoy local food, coffee, deli products, gifts, plants, fresh produce and live tunes, meet new people, hook up with old friends, support local vendors, and take delicious food home for the whole weekend. Free entrance and plenty of free parking. Stanford Village Green (in case of rain, move to Birkenhead Brewery) | 18:00 – 20:00

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SATURDAY

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 1000 or bookings@themarine. co.za. The Marine | 17:00 – 19:00 Stanford Sunset Market Everyone's favourite, family-friendly, local evening food and goodies market that showcases all things Stanford. If it’s a clear evening, the market will

Hermanus parkrun For all the ‘fast and furious’ as well as the ‘slow and steady’ – experience the joy of exercising in a safe environment. Protocols that need to be adhered to include social distancing and the wearing of masks for the start and when entering the finish tunnel. Forest Adventures, Camphill Rd, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley | 08:00 Westcliff Commonage Clean-up Join the Westcliff Residents Association (WRA) for their monthly Last Saturday of the Month Clean-up. Wear your masks, sensible clothes and gardening gloves. Bags will be provided and the required Covid-19 protocols will remain applicable. For more info, WRA Chairperson Deon de Kock can be contacted on 079 692 2326. Sunnybrae Commonage | 08:00 – 09:00

Kleinmond Golf Day Thank our heroes by participating in this fundraising Golf Day for our brave fire fighters. The format will be a 4 Ball Alliance with two scores to count. R2 000 per 4 Ball. All funds raised will go directly to the fire-fighting departments to assist them with their needs and will not be used to cover any costs incurred by the current fire. For more information please email [email protected]. Kleinmond Golf Club | 12:00 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

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

Wanderlust Adventure Sprint Race Run, ride and get muddy in the second event of the Wanderlust Adventure Sprint Race series on the picturesque Beaumont Family Wines Estate. Expect 25 – 40 km of offtrail scrambling, a journey through historic Bot River and a ride through newly-planted canola fields. R650 per team of two – mixed, open men, open women or family (1 adult and 1 child between 10 – 18 years). Enter at www. wanderlustadventureracing.co.za. Beaumont Family Wines, Bot River | 08:00 (registration from 07:00) 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

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 It’s Saturday. Time to recharge the batteries... Where better to kick off your shoes and put up your feet than Die Markie, where you can meet up with family and friends and take it easy in a safe, open-air environment? Share a platter, a pizza or a bottle, or grab an empty plate and glass to pick and choose a brekkie, brunch or lunch and sip of your choosing. Wear your mask, sanitise, energise and enjoy a Slice of Life... Hermanuspietersfontein Wynkelder | 09:00 – 13:00 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

28 JAN – 5 FEB 2022 Send your events to [email protected] [email protected]. Kapokblom St, opposite Gansbaai Tourism | 09:00 – 13:00 Stanford Saturday Morning Market Come and sample the artisanal delights on display, from homemade sheep and goats’ cheeses to wood-fired ciabattas, pastries and pies, charcuterie, farm-fresh vegetables, free-range eggs, flowers, preserves and deli delights (including gluten-free, wheat-free and vegan goodies) to tantalise your taste buds! #nomasknoservice Stanford Hotel Stoep | 09:00 – 12:00 Kleinmond Beach Market Hangklip/Kleinmond Tourism will again host a two-day beach market where vendors can book their spot for only R50. For more information, send a WhatsApp to 072 935 1616 or visit the Facebook page, Kleinmond Beach Market. Kleinmond Main Beach | 11:00 – 16:00 (Sat & Sun) Music by Herman Beeftink Join Andanté for their first performance of 2022. Thomas de Bruin (flute) and Lara Kirsten (piano and performance poet) will present a musical programme that includes their own distinct improvisations. Tickets at R120 pp are available from Helma on 082 443 2292. Andanté, The Yard, Harbour Rd, Kleinmond | 16:00 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

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MONDAY

Hermanus Hacking Group Join the HHG in clearing aliens in the Hermanus Heights and Fernkloof areas. The group meets every Monday morning at the top parking area of the Hermanus Country Market just below the Elephant Path. Volunteers are welcome to contact Quentin on 083 655 2692 or [email protected]. Elephant Path | 06:45 for 07:00 – 09:00

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TUESDAY

HAWS Quiz evening Kick-start the new month at a fun Quiz evening at a delightful venue in aid of Hermanus Animal Welfare. Gather your brightest friends and come and support this worthy cause. The cost is R60 per person and bookings can be made with Nicky on 082 9205068 or email quizzeveninghermanus@gmail. com. Hermanus Sports Club | 18:30

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FRIDAY

Self-Compassion Retreat Gently step into the New Year with courage, curiosity, creativity and compassion at this three-day retreat where you’ll join Karen Nebe, your creative guide and ontological coach in a beautiful space to fully immerse yourself in guided intuitive art-making, stillness, yoga, meditation, reflection, poetry and movement. No art or meditation experience is necessary. You will also have time to rest, go for walks, swim in the dam or have a treatment at the spa. For more details and to register, go to www.karennebe. com/events or contact Karen on 082 828 2028 or email karen@karennebe. com. Stanford Valley Guest Farm | 4 – 6 Feb

28 January 2022

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

LOVE A LITTLE LOCAL

Decadent delights at delightful deli Writer Elaine Davie

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arry me home’ is the name of a new deli and décor shop on Harbour Road, Kleinmond. And believe me, you won’t need more than one invitation. The only question is what to choose and how much you can carry. The shop may be new, but the owners are not. Frans and Mariaan Groenewald have been residents and active members of the Kleinmond community for the past 11 years, although their place of work is some distance from town. Since 2009, from the very beginning of its existence in fact, they have successfully run the Gabriëlskloof Restaurant between Bot River and Caledon. The idea of adding an extra string to their bow came about as a direct result of the Covid-19 lockdown, when restaurants had to close their doors. As we know, everyone in the industry suffered and many were forced to close down permanently. But by April 2020, Chef Frans was making mouth-watering take-away meals in their home kitchen and freezing them, and Mariaan was on the road day-in and day-out making deliveries, from Somerset West and Gordon’s Bay, to Bot River, Villiersdorp, Hermanus and everywhere in between. There were 22 dishes on the menu, excluding soups in winter, and clients placed their orders on Facebook. This turned out to be

such a successful initiative that they decided to continue with it even after the restaurant was permitted to reopen. However, since Mariaan was no longer available to drive from pillar to post, they entered into contracts with a number of OK outlets in the area, first Onrus Mini Mart, then Voëlklip, Kleinmond and Gateway. Bloubakkie in Kleinmond came on board, as well as Little Oaks and Farm to Plate, the fresh produce suppliers. In addition to frozen meals, they now supply all the OK outlets with rusks, which can amount to between 60 – 100 packets per shop per week. The 15-strong team in the Gabriëlskloof kitchen have been kept on their toes. Before Gabriëlskloof, Frans and Mariaan ran the Houw Hoek farm stall for eight years, so they were familiar with the take-away format, but under the new Carry me Home branding, they wanted to upgrade the offering. When a suitable venue unexpectedly fell vacant in Kleinmond towards the end of last year, they decided to take the next step and open a

second deli, like the one at Gabriëlskloof, where clients could carry their own food home. “With our hearts in our mouths, we opened the Carry Me Home Deli and Décor shop on 17 December last year – the start of the season,” smiles Mariaan. “We didn’t know if anyone would come at all, but to our relief they did, in numbers. Of course, we were still running our restaurant at Gabriëlskloof, so it was hectic, but exciting.” Frans and Mariaan make a good team. He is very much a hands-on chef, but as a qualified social worker, she is definitely a people-person. They are upbeat about this new venture, but are taking it step by step. “It doesn’t all have to happen overnight,” they say. From mid-February, though, the deli is planning to offer breakfasts and lunches and they also intend preparing freshly-cooked meals, which

TOP LEFT: Terbodore coffee is simply the best, say Frans and Mariaan Groenewald, and that's what they're serving at their brand new deli in Kleinmond. LEFT: Carry me Home is the name of the new deli in Harbour Road, Kleinmond and who can resist taking home some of their famous pies, quiches and samoosas? ABOVE: Owners Mariaan and Chef Frans are very excited about opening their second deli, this time in their home town.

clients can collect in their own containers and take home to warm up, as well as arranging regular harvest tables. The deli itself offers homebaked biscuits, rusks, muesli, jams (made by Frans’s parents), olives and olive oil, Terbodore coffees and Wild Peacock products from Stellenbosch. A selection of meats, salads and cheeses are available from the fridge, as well as home-made ice-cream in yummy flavours. But it’s the baked goods and confectionery, darling, that’s to die for. If you’re on a diet, stay far, very far from these sweet temptations. The shop also stocks its own

brand of gift items, like throws, tea towels and hand-made soaps. Frans also highlights the symbiotic relationship they have with local furniture makers, Ryno and Leandro Lategan, who have made all the shop fittings, as well as the furniture in the coffee shop section. “Basically,” explains Frans, “all this furniture is for sale. We’re offering them a display space and if customers see anything they like, they can order directly from them. It’s a win-win arrangement.” Another attraction is the spacious enclosed garden at the back of the deli. Dotted around the lawn is an array of wooden playground equipment, making

this an ideal venue for family meals and eventually possibly kiddies’ birthday parties. “This is our community,” says Frans. “People have been nagging us about doing something special in Kleinmond, so here it is: we’ve heard them. Getting together around food is a very special thing. We’ve got to know many of our clients so well over the years that they’ve become friends. It’s a privilege to share the good and the bad times with them around a table of beautifully-prepared food.” For more information visit Carry Me Home Deli and Décor on Facebook or call 082 871 7982.

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 January 2022

Oh sugar, you are my candy girl... PHOTOS: Supplied

Writer Taylum Meyer

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f you have a sweet tooth, then the opening of Crazylicious Cookies in Royal Street is bound to get you excited! The new shop was opened on 14 December last year by local baker and candymaker Zola Geldenhuys. Zola has been living in Hermanus since she was in Grade 6, but didn't know she wanted to go into the baking and candy-making business until about six years ago when she decided, out of the blue, that she wanted to know what the icing on top of Zoo biscuits – her favourite childhood cookie – was made of. After looking it up online, Zola made her own Zoo biscuits using what she had on hand – which did not even include a piping bag! A few weeks later on Pinterest, Zola says she came across a page with royal icing cookies. "My mind was blown!" she says, "I was amazed at the possibilities of what one could do with a cookie – and from that day on I was hooked and I just wanted to do that." Eager to learn more, Zola attended her friend and baker Leigh Oosthuizen's class on royal icing that same year. Zola also made Lighthouse-shaped cookies to raise funds for the Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies (L2L) Walk, which The Beanery sold at their coffee shop on her behalf. Shortly afterwards, Zola received a few queries from people looking for someone to make cookies for specific occasions, and soon orders began coming in. Anything Zola did not know or was unsure of she looked up online, or figured out on her own. Zola attended one more royal icing workshop a year later, presented by cookie art legend Marta Torres from Portugal. The workshop was held in Cape Town and Marta showed the class how to use royal icing to make 3D art on cook-

Zola Geldenhuys opened her shop in Royal Street in December last year. She sells an assortment of candies, cookies and sweets. PHOTO: Taylum Meyer

ies. Zola's eyes were opened even further as to what one could do with royal icing – igniting her passion for the art even more – and her cookies became even more exquisite in their design as she continued to learn and try new things over the years. She now even makes branded cookies for business functions. Last year, Zola realised that her kitchen at home had become too small to handle all the orders streaming in. She also had nowhere to make and display her homemade liquorice, toffees, taffy, lollies, gummies, chocolates and cupcakes (all of which she taught herself to make). It was then that she decided it was time to take the risk and open a shop where she could display her work, meet clients, take orders, and make all her sweets and cookies. Zola is humbled by how successful her business has been, even through lockdown when she made Hot Chocolate Bombs and DIY Cookie Kits to amuse bored kids (and adults) at home. It is this type of out-of-the-box thinking that has made Crazylicious Cookies so popular. For Zola though, it is not about the money that success has brought: "I just love what I do, and that is enough for me," she says. And when she has any income to spare, this passionate and kind-hearted woman often sends it straight to the Purple Kennel Project, her favourite charity. There is still some work to be done on the shop and signage to be put up (candy-inspired of course), but Zola is open for business at 4 Royal Street (opposite AVBOB) in the blue building at the back. Pop into the shop or contact Zola on WhatsApp 072 325 7748. You will also find her cookies at 'Coffee on Clarence' in Betty's Bay. Zola still has a lot up her sleeve, some of which is focused on tourism in Hermanus. Keep a close eye on her Facebook page, Crazylicious Cookies, for updates on her ventures and photos of her beautiful creations.

28 January 2022

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

Leading young children by the hand

The book launch of Jane Evans’s memoir, A path unexpected was hosted by Barbara Lindop at her Intethe Gallery in High Street on Friday afternoon.

A path unexpected: a Memoir by Jane Evans

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idea, and two ladies from amongst them were nominated to undergo training at the Early Learning Resource Unit (ELRU) in Cape Town. This was the time of Grand Apartheid, of course, and all nursery school teacher training facilities were exclusively restricted to white students; everyone else was catered for by a sprinkling of excellent NGOs, like ELRU.

he title of the book is apt. When journalist Jane Klein was appointed to the staff of the prestigious, but politically controversial Johannesburg newspaper, The Rand Daily Mail, she had no notion of how spectacularly her life would change just a few years later. In the mid-1970s she married business man and successful farmer, Anthony Evans and found herself on an isolated Free State farm, with no preparation for the task of being a farmer’s wife. Her husband’s vast maize and cattle farm, Huntersvlei, was in the Viljoenskroon district, a long way from family and friends and the adrenaline buzz of journalism. “I tried making koeksisters and they were a disaster, then I tried sausages – even more of a disaster,” she laughs. “I decided I was not cut out to be a traditional farmer’s wife.” Then, the day after June 16, 1976 Anthony asked her to come with him to a meeting with the anxious principal of the farm’s primary school, which catered for about 300 of their own farm workers’ children, as well as some from neighbouring farms. While they were there, Jane noticed several small children playing in the dirt with old tyres, wire cars and balls. “It suddenly struck me that they

should be receiving some form of early childhood education,” she says. “At that time this was an unheard of concept in black, rural communities.” Jane knew about as much about starting a pre-school as about making koeksisters, but she decided to consult two members of the African Feeding Scheme, who were involved in running educare centres in SOWETO. With their encouragement, she started a protracted series of discussions with the farm workers. Eventually they all came round to the

In consultation with the mothers, the name that was chosen for the Huntersvlei educare centre was ‘Ntataise’, a Sotho word meaning ‘to lead a young child by the hand’. Soon requests came pouring in from other Free State farmers for assistance in establishing similar projects. And before long, Jane had opened her own training centre on the farm with assistance from ELRU, and was forced to learn another skill – fundraising. All this happened over 40 years ago and through the Ntataise Network, it continues to flourish in rural communities in the Free State, as well as in most other provinces. During that time, Jane estimates that the lives of between 800 000 and one million young children have been enriched through the programme. Ntataise, together with the handful of other NGOs in this field also laid the foundations for the curriculum used by

PHOTO: Hedda Mittner government-accredited ECD teacher training facilities in operation today. An aspect of this project that has given Jane perhaps the greatest satisfaction, though, is the role it has played in empowering hundreds of rural women across the country. Previously condemned to a life of domestic subservience and back-breaking physical labour, a door of hope was opened to them for a different, more fulfilling life and the possibility that their children would be able to escape an intergenerational legacy of poverty. Some of the first women to be trained are still part of the Ntataise team as dedicated leaders in their own right. In the midst of all this ground-breaking activity, Jane still found the time

to have four children of her own. Although Anthony, who sadly passed away a couple of years ago, was never directly involved in the running of Ntataise, he brought his business acumen to bear as, at various times, Chairman of the Board and Treasurer. “He believed in the worth of the project and was always a pillar of support,” says Jane. “Ntataise would never have achieved the success it has without him. As for me, my whole world was Anthony, our children and Ntataise. This book took me 12 years to write, on and off, and it is as much their story as it is mine.” A path unexpected is available from The Book Cottage in Hermanus, as well as Exclusive Books and online outlets. – Elaine Davie

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28 January 2022

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28 January 2022

THE VILLAGE NEWS

Curro Hermanus: 10 years later Writer Taylum Meyer

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ur (now not so) little town of Hermanus has grown exponentially over the past 15 years as more and more people have chosen to settle here and raise their families. With the steady rise in population numbers, there was, and still is, an increasing need for schools in the area – especially those offering secondary education (high school). Curro Hermanus Independent School is one of just two schools in Hermanus that currently offers schooling for children in pre-primary school, primary school and high school, from four months old right through to Grade 12. A decade ago, after being contacted by members of the Hermanus community, the founder (and CEO until 2017) of Curro Holdings, Dr Chris van der Merwe, arranged a deal with two of the schools in Hermanus, namely the Overstrand Learning Academy (a primary school) and Berghof (a pre-primary school).

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PHOTO: Supplied

foundation level until its completion on 1 July 2011, when the learners and staff moved into their new campus. He was also involved in the selection of furniture and equipment, as well as overseeing the development of the swimming pool, gardens and sports fields. Under Hennie's five years of leadership at the school, the nursery school, school hall (which was named after him when he left), music centre, tuck shop and training kitchen were built. He also saw the school's first group of Grade 12s matriculate in 2015. In 2016, he left to become the regional manager for the Western and Eastern Cape Curro Schools. Johannes Mouton, who was also previously an executive head at a Curro school in Durban, took over Hennie's post and remained in the position until 2018. During his two years at Curro Hermanus, the high school building was constructed and by the time he left, the third group of Curro Hermanus Grade 12s had matriculated.

The schools' learners and staff were merged to create the first few classes of Curro Hermanus. The head of Berghof, Gill de Cock, was appointed the head of Castle (Curro's pre-primary school).

Johannes was replaced in 2018 by the current executive head of Curro Hermanus, Kobus Vermeulen. During his tenure at the school, the swimming pool was turned into a heated indoor pool in 2018, and in 2019 the school's state of the art AstroTurf with floodlights was built.

Hennie Mentz was appointed as the executive head of Curro Hermanus and was involved in planning the construction of the school from

When the pandemic began in 2020, Kobus and his Curro Hermanus team quickly adjusted to a new kind of teaching as the Curro schools

immediately implemented online learning when the first lockdown in South Africa was announced. The teachers across all the campuses were given week-long training and support from Curro Holdings.

opinion, the IEB education system that is used at Curro schools provides learners with the best preparation for tertiary education compared to the other systems, as they also learn cognitive thinking and life skills for world-readiness.

Thanks to this swift move to online learning, the quality of education hasn't wavered for a moment and not a single day of school was lost during the different lockdown levels.

Here are just some of the advantages offered by Curro Hermanus: • a wider subject choice through online learning • a music centre with state of the art music teachers • a variety of sports, extra-mural activities, clubs and societies, cultural activities, and community outreach programmes • sports facilities including an indoor heated aquatics centre, AstroTurf with floodlights, tennis/netball courts, rugby/soccer fields, and a 300m athletics track • modern classrooms with small class sizes • aftercare and holiday care • school transport • indoor and outdoor play areas • an assisted learning centre and on-campus therapists • a registered nurse

In 2021, the school's seventh Grade 12 group matriculated. The Curro matrics have achieved consistently excellent results since the first Grade 12 group matriculated seven years ago. Curro MyChoice was introduced which allows learners to study subjects that are not otherwise offered at the school through an online teacher. Curro Hermanus also hosted its first event with Cycle2Ride (an initiative supported by Curro to promote cycling) in March. Kobus, who has had experience teaching in public and private schools, says that the support from the staff, the network of other Curro schools and Curro Holdings is unlike anything he has experienced. He also says that, in his

For more information visit www.curro.co.za

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 January 2022

Hermanus Camino founders (in dark blue T-shirts, from left to right) Leon van Rooyen, Peter Kilpin, Dave de Beer and Andrew Kilpin, interspersed between the 10 hikers who embarked this week on the inaugural five-day, 90km hike through the Overberg.

Hermanus Camino off to a good start Writer & Photographer Sarah Taylor

and Portugal”.

Stanford Hills and Wortelgat.

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On Monday, the first group of 10 Hermanus Camino hikers set off up the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley from High Season Farm on the walking tour, which over five days encompasses the Overberg’s winelands, mountain fynbos, riverine and coastal habitats, and culminates in Hermanus.

Leon noted that 85% of interest in bookings was from women keen to do shorter hikes due to family commitments, so alternative routes were also being considered.

he Hermanus Camino, a newly launched 90 km slack-packing trail showcasing the spectacular Overberg, has been so well received online that it is already booked up until early May this year. The five-day guided walking trail was conceived of by founders Peter and Andrew Kilpin, Dave de Beer and Leon van Rooyen less than six months ago and launched on social media platforms early last month. Speaking on Sunday evening, on the eve of the inaugural tour, Peter said feedback since the launch had been impressive and that “bookings for 2023 have also started to come in from as far afield as Germany

The route is walked except for a bussed stretch on Day 1 from the upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley to Tesselaarsdal, and for 15 km down the Klein River on Day 4, during a birding cruise. Guesthouse and ‘glamping’ accommodation on the Hermanus Camino, which is restricted to 10 – 12 people per hike, includes High Season Farm, Glen Oakes and Otium in Tesselaarsdal,

Meals and snacks are fully catered for by The Belle Desk team, Nikki de Beer and Sarah Koekemoer, or the establishments en route, and luggage is transported by vehicle by the Camino team between the overnight stops. Over the five days, hikers have the opportunity to learn more about the history of the area, discover the beauty of nature in the mountain fynbos and coastal biomes, and indulge in two wine tastings. Of the interest already generated in the new concept, Leon said: “It’s al-

most like our timing was perfect. The impact of two years of living under Covid restrictions means people are eager now to find healthy, outdoor activities to do in their holidays.” Gina Clayton, one of the debut Hermanus Camino walkers, said the pandemic had certainly boosted her interest in exploring South Africa: “With Covid restrictions having made international travel impossible or difficult, my husband and I have realised we would much rather spend our money locally and discover local wonders.” Leon said the Hermanus Camino was intended to boost the communities en route: “We want locals along the way to benefit. As the tours run from Mondays to Fridays, guest farms get business during the week without in-

terrupting their weekend bookings.” While the first few tours will be guided by the founders, Leon said they are looking at employing locally trained guides. He said they were also keen to enrich the environments they traversed and had offered to assist with alien clearing on one of the participating farms. Dave noted he was “enormously proud” of what the team had achieved since the idea was conceived of “over a couple of beers four or five months ago”. Ultimately, he said to those heading off on the inaugural tour: “The Hermanus Camino is a chance to make new friends and have a relaxed walk. It is not a race. It is an opportunity to find yourself.”

28 January 2022

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

MY PET

Separation anxiety in pets By Dr Hilldidge Beer

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eparation anxiety is a relatively common problem with pets, especially dogs, that has been exacerbated by Covid. As Covid restrictions ease and more people go back to the office, pets who enjoyed almost two years of having their owners’ company all day now find they’re left alone for hours at a time. Of course, this is only one cause of anxiety. There are many more and it is essential that the source of anxiety is identified before you try to fix it. Leaving your pet’s anxiety issues to resolve themselves not only puts the pet and your family under more stress, it could also cause problems with neighbours. Causes of separation anxiety • Genetic: some breeds are more inclined towards anxiety • History: pets that have been abused or have moved homes frequently or been left alone for long periods are more likely to be anxious • Training: cats or dogs that were not properly socialised or trained as kittens or puppies

Symptoms of separation anxiety: dogs • Constant barking or howling when you leave the house • Restlessness • Vomiting, diarrhoea, panting, drooling • Chewing furniture, toys, household items • Jumping through open or closed windows • Chewing at entry points such as window frames and doors • Scaling walls Symptoms of separation anxiety: cats • Urinating or defecating in odd places (bed, sofa, clothing) • Excessive meowing, howling or moaning • Eating too fast or not eating at all • Excessive self-grooming • Destructive behaviour • Excitement upon returning from home that’s out of the ordinary • Vomiting food or hairballs • Trying to escape It’s important to remember that if your cat is eliminating outside of its litter tray or its usual spot in the garden,

this isn’t necessarily a sign of spiteful behaviour but can often mean that your cat is looking to mix their scent with yours. Cats believe they are also helping you find your way home. Anxious dogs may chew things because chewing releases pleasurable endorphins, promoting a feeling of calm – just as some humans release tension by biting their nails. Avoid using physical or emotional punishment. These are ineffective and only serve to increase anxiety. Treatment for separation anxiety 1. Get help as soon as possible. Ask a vet who knows about behavioural issues for advice. He/she will be able to recommend appropriate action or even medical treatment, should it be necessary. Pets that are going blind or suffering a form of Alzheimer’s also display symptoms of anxiety. 2. Your vet may refer you to a behaviour specialist. It is extremely important to get professional help and not to simply rely on ‘self-help’ via the internet. 3. Ensure your dog gets regular and

appropriate exercise. Boredom and lack of exercise can contribute to anxiety. 4. Pets are also sensitive to environmental changes. The transition from the energy when you’re at home to silence when you’re not is profound. Leave the TV or radio on; this will make your absence easier. 5. Introduce your pet to new toys when it is time for you to leave. Your EberVet Vetshop has a wide range for cats and dogs that will keep them entertained for hours. How to avoid separation anxiety 1. Start when your pet is young. Leave them alone for short periods. Give them plenty of toys or chews to keep them entertained, and a warm, secure

place to sleep. 2. When you leave and return, do it calmly and without fuss. 3. Consider adopting another pet as company. However, this won’t always work if your dog already has a serious anxiety issue. 4. When you are home spend plenty of quality time with your pet, playing and cuddling. 5. If picking up your keys or putting on your coat are triggers for your pet’s anxiety, make sure you do so at random intervals and not just when you are going out so they do not associate them with your leaving. Veterinarian Dr Hilldidge Beer is the CEO of EberVet Petcare Group and EberVet Vetshops, www.ebervet.com

LOCAL

EXPERTISE

NATIONAL PRESENCE

INTERNATIONAL AUDIENCE

FEATURE PROPERTY

COASTAL LIVING ON MILLIONAIRE’S MILE R 28 750 000 KWAAIWATER A STATE-OF-THE-ART LUXURY HOME LOCATED ON HERMANUS’S SOUGHT-AFTER MILLIONAIRE’S MILE IN KWAAIWATER Enjoy unsurpassed views of Walker Bay, inhale the fresh sea breeze and gaze at the majestic mountain views, all from the comfort of this pristine property. Special features are the norm and not the exception. The 3 kitchens, dining rooms, bars, and cellar, together with 6 en-suite bedrooms distinguish this home as extraordinary.

The features this coastal property offers include wraparound balconies, combustion stoves and fireplaces to ward off the worst of the winter chills, expansive windows secured by American shutters, stacking doors and luxury finishes and fittings throughout. The design creates a functional flow with natural light permeating all living and entertainment areas. The 2 built-in bars, a separate private wine cellar and a braai area with glass stacking doors opening to a sparkling heated salt pool, complete this picture-perfect home.

This expansive lifestyle home is close to the golf club, an easy walk to Blue Flag beaches, alongside the famous Hermanus cliff paths and all amenities.

Web Ref: 2072163 Jenny Küsel 083 262 7578 Stephen de Stadler 082 441 0120

Fine & Country Hermanus, Arabella and Kleinmond 16 Hope Street, Hermanus, 7200 +27 (0)21 205 7135 | [email protected]

300 offices globally 30 offices nationally

28 January 2022

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

A celebration of Land Cruiser – 70th anniversary model FLOYD

ON CARS Compiled by John Floyd

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he number The number 70 is particularly significant for Toyota’s Land Cruiser. Seventy years ago the first Land Cruiser made its debut. Originally known as the Toyota BJ and intended for military use, this four-wheel drive juggernaut quickly went on to earn an enviable reputation for its ‘go anywhere’ capability and rugged construction. The Land Cruiser name was coined in 1954 as the model expanded into the civilian market and went head-to-head with the British-built Land Rover. Secondly the number 70 refers to the Land Cruiser’s long-running 70-series, comprising the 76 Station Wagon, 78 Wagon and 79 ‘bakkie’ or LCV. In celebration of the 70-year milestone, Toyota SA is pleased to announce the release of a 70th anniversary edition, which will be applied to the 79-series single and double-cab variants. The package The special-edition model builds upon the core Land Cruiser credentials and adds a host of utility-boosting parts and visual enhancements to deliver a bespoke model, true to the needs of the ‘hardcore’ Land Cruiser enthusiast. A unique 70-year emblem has been affixed to the exterior and also included on the durable cotton canvas seat covers making the 70th edition instantly recognisable. The Toyota ellipse has been replaced by prominent TOYOTA lettering (similar to the Hilux GR-S and Land Cruiser GR-S) to create a signature look. Another nostalgic touch is the bespoke Land Cruiser badge reminiscent of the

iconic 40-series, which the celebration model wears proudly on its side doors. The rest of the package focusses on equipping the model with features which not only play the visual part, but deliver when the going gets tough. Here, the heavy-duty front steel bumper, integrated winch and towbar equip the LC 70th anniversary model with the tools required for the job. The unique specification enhancements include the following: Interior: • Unique grey seat covers with 70th edition embroidery • Land Cruiser-branded floor mats • Touchscreen audio system with navigation and Bluetooth Exterior: • Heritage-inspired mesh radiator grille with TOYOTA lettering • Heritage logo on side door • 70th anniversary emblem • Tubular rear step bumper with detachable towbar • Inner load-bed protector • Rubberised load bed (3mm) • Tubular front steel bumper • Integrated winch The colours The 70th anniversary model will be offered exclusively in Ivory White and Sand Beige. The model line-up Land Cruiser 79 S/C 4.5 Diesel V8 70th Edition R889,700 Land Cruiser 79 D/C 4.5 Diesel V8 70th Edition R943,100 A three-year / 100 000 km warranty is included and customers can purchase various service plan packages from their nearest Toyota dealer (220 outlets nationwide). Service intervals are every 12 months/ 10 000 km.

AARTO hurdle: what now? FLOYD

ON CARS Compiled by John Floyd

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ecently, the Pretoria High Court found that South Africa’s Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act and the amendments made in 2021, are unconstitutional. In summary, the court says that the act prevents local and provincial governments from regulating their own affairs. Consequently, AARTO can no longer proceed on the projected timeline. MasterDrive CEO Eugene Herbert says this may leave many companies questioning where they stand in terms of preparation for the act. “This is another hurdle to the implementation of the act, one that aims to rectify all the administrative challenges, and it is unlikely AARTO will become a reality within the original timeline. Many years and (a considerable amount of ) money were invested in developing the act and it is highly improbable that it will simply be scrapped because of the loss that this

would cause. “As to when it could become a reality, no one knows and it is very difficult to make this projection. Consequently, the next question businesses may ask is whether preparation for the possible implementation is necessary. While MasterDrive agrees that the current system had (the) potential to be prejudicial, these issues can be resolved and AARTO placed back on the agenda.” Remember, what was called into question was not AARTO’s road safety potential but its implementation. “A properly implemented point system retains this potential. The principles intended to bring about improved road safety will likely remain while implementation falls under the microscope. In this scenario, driver preparation for AARTO will not change much when the present hurdles are overcome. “If your company has already made changes, that investment is not lost. It is important to look at it from another perspective. Firstly, penalties and other consequences that currently exist will be reduced dramatically with

changed driving behaviour, impacting your bottom line and overall wellbeing.” The second, is the need for changed driver behaviour irrespective of legislative changes. “Companies should not let the existence of a point system rule their driving behaviour. Drivers who respect the rules of the road and are conscious of the dangers (are) something every company should already strive for. Threats of legislation should not be the only motivation for safe and responsible road use. With this approach, companies will not worry about future implementation. “This latest AARTO hurdle brings about plenty of uncertainty. It may take time to fix the problems or it could be scrapped altogether. The latter seems highly unlikely considering the investment into the act. Either way, companies that make good driving behaviour part of company culture will have little to worry about and start to see benefits right away. Rather than worry about the future, focus on the positive attributes that good drivers will have right now,” says Herbert.

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 January 2022

New Kia Carens global debut

FLOYD

ON CARS Compiled by John Floyd

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he Kia Corporation launched the Carens in late December 2021 during a world-premiere event in India. Highlights The Kia Carens offers customers the luxury of choice, with both petrol and diesel powertrains combined with multiple transmission options, including the 7DCT and 6AT. The car also comes equipped with a plethora of practical features making life easy for patrons. From connectivity features, like the next-generation Kia Connect app, to flexible seating options and features such as the Sliding Type Seat Under Tray, Retractable Seatback Table, the rear door spot lamp and the bottle and gadget holder in the third row, the Carens literally redefines automotive practicality. The Kia Carens is loaded with multiple class-leading features, giving it an edge over existing family movers. Moreover, the car brings much-needed excitement in the three-row seater segment. This includes: • 10.25” HD touchscreen navigation with next-gen Kia Connect

• BOSE Premium Sound System with eight speakers • Cabin surround 64-colour ambient mood lighting • Smart Pure Air Purifier with virus and bacteria protection • Hi-Secure Safety Standard Package: six airbags, ESC+VSM+HAC+DBC+ABS+BAS, all-wheel disc brakes • Ventilated front seats • Multi Drive Modes (Sport/Eco/ Normal) linked with Ambient Mood Lighting • Second-row seat is a One Touch Easy Electric Tumble • SkyLight sunroof Design The front shows a sporty and stable stance with high-tech details. The DRL in the headlamps is designed on Kia’s new signature lighting concept – ‘The Star Map’. The horizontal chrome garnish in the upper grille and the frame-type chrome garnish in the lower bumper create an impressive tiger face. An SUV-like side profile, a high front-end with a pushed-back A-pillar, and a straight roofline with optimum ground clearance make it a capable recreational vehicle. While the car looks sleek and dynamic with its slim DLO graphic, it also offers generous headroom as a multi-seater vehicle. The sophisticated interior features

plenty of storage space with a layout designed to put all occupants at ease. The dashboard has a wide high-gloss black panel that accentuates the overall design, while the door trims look stylish and are designed to offer voluminous storage space. Inspired by aeroplane seats, all three seat rows in the Carens combine comfort with aesthetics by matching materials, patterns and colours in an elegant manner. The centre switches are designed to highlight the smart experience the Carens offers. The second row is also packed with functionality, featuring Retractable Seat Back Tables with an integrated cup holder and space to put tech gadgets, guaranteeing a pleasant journey. The interior of the Carens delivers practicality by creating multiple storage spaces for various needs and small but valuable convenience features. Safety features The Kia Carens is a true family car, offering a number of active safety features. The model comes with Kia’s Hi-Secure Safety Package. Included as standard across all trims of the Carens are six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Hill-Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assist System (BAS), Highline Tyre-Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and all-wheel disc brakes. While the ESC protects the

car from the loss of traction, HAC and DBC let drivers confidently drive on uphill and downhill roads. Additionally, the VSM ensures occupant safety by offering stability to the car when the driver must perform sudden braking and turning manoeuvres. Continuing this focus on safety, the Carens boasts front parking sensors and rain-sensing wipers, always giving drivers the utmost confidence and allowing them to focus fully on the road conditions ahead. Kia Connect With the Carens, the connected car platform gets a complete revamp with the next-generation Kia Connect app. One of the major updates with Kia Connect is the enhancement of OTA (Over the Air) map and system updates, which is now capable of updating software without visiting the Kia workshop. The Carens comes equipped with more than 60 connected car features. Space and convenience The Kia Carens redefines practicality and sets a new standard with its interior space and convenience features. The large cabin offers generous third-row legroom that is led by the best-in-class wheelbase of the car. The One Touch Easy Electric Tumble in the second row ensures easy ingress and egress. The second row also features recline and slide functions for utmost comfort. In addition to the optimum space and re-

cline functions, the third-row seats can also be flattened in the boot to ensure maximum cargo space. The Kia Carens is designed to deliver on-board convenience to the family. The 64-colour Ambient Mood Lighting sets the perfect ambience. The ventilated front seats and three drive modes, namely Sports, Eco, and Normal, give the driver the journey they want without any hassle. One of the best aspects of the Carens is the optimum space management of the interior, which enables the vehicle to offer plenty of storage space. The car incorporates cooling cup holders, Retractable Seat Back Table with Cup and Gadget Mount, Sliding Type Seat Under Tray, Easy Push Retractable cup holder and sliding tray, and a dedicated air freshener mounting system for maximum convenience. In fact, the Kia Carens has a long list of convenience features, which includes: • Second-row Seat Back Folding armrest with cup holders • Paddle shifters • Roof-flush second and third row diffused AC vents • Smartphone wireless charger with cooling function • Rear door spot lamp with Kia logo projection • Rear door sunshade curtains • Five USB C-type interfaces

28 January 2022

19

THE VILLAGE NEWS

Second Dakar victory for Toyota Gazoo Racing FLOYD

ON CARS Compiled by John Floyd

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asser Al-Attiyah and co-driver Mathieu Baumel recorded their second Dakar victory for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, when they won the 2022 Dakar Rally, which took place in Saudi Arabia in early January. The pair dominated the event, winning the prologue on 1 January, as well as the tough opening stage near the city of Ha’il. They also powered their Toyota Hilux to victory in Stage 4, but controlled their pace through the remainder of the event, to bring the car home safely in first place, with a winning margin of 27 min 46 sec.

Winning the prologue allowed Al-Attiyah/Baumel to choose their starting position for the first stage, and they selected the tenth position on the road. This gave them the optimal position from which to attack: A three-minute dust gap to the car ahead of them; but plenty of tracks to follow, making navigation easier. This paid off handsomely as many of the top crews faltered in the opening stage. The TGR crew managed to pick their way through the tricky terrain without any problems, securing the opening stage win by 12 min 44 sec over the BRX Hunter of Sebastien Loeb. The battle with Loeb raged on throughout the race, even though mechanical difficulties for the BRX driver saw the Toyota crew’s lead increase to over 30 minutes – a buffer they never relinquished by driving at a calculated, strategic pace throughout the remainder of the rally.

This year’s race officially started in Ha’il, though the prologue took place mid-way between the city of Jeddah and Ha’il. The terrain for the first week of the rally was monotonous and predictable, without significant landscapes to cross – dunes, sandy tracks and rocky trials were the order of each day. This changed, however, as the rally reached its second week, after the Rest Day on 8 January in the Saudi capital of Riyadh. From there, the terrain became steadily more mountainous, with rocky outcroppings and tricky canyons to traverse. The final stage was set between the cities of Bisha and Jeddah, bringing the Dakar caravan back to the its starting point – 4 261 competitive kilometres and 12 stages later. Al-Attiyah/Baumel’s victory came with the new GR DKR Hilux T1+, an evolution of the team’s former specification Hilux, featuring bigger wheels and tyres; more suspension travel; and an all-new engine. The new power plant was sourced from the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport, and the 3.5 litre twin-turbo charged V6 proved extremely reliable from the start. This engine’s standard power and torque outputs fall within the prescribed maximums as mandated by the FIA, and as such the team was able to utilise the engine in its production form, with the engine management control integrated with the car’s electrics. The team also developed the intercooler system for the engine in-house, using parts from the Toyota family, in order to meet the demands of the Dakar Rally. This meant that, while the engine

was pushed to its limits, it remained reliable throughout the race. DE VILLIERS/MURPHY The same car secured a fifth place in the overall standings for South Africa’s Dakar stalwart, Giniel de Villiers and co-driver Dennis Murphy. Taking part in his nineteenth Dakar Rally, the Stellenbosch local set highly competitive stage times throughout the rally, except for Stage 7, when a broken oil pipe cost the crew one hour and necessitated the help of teammates Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings, who conducted mid-stage repairs. Despite the hour time loss, the South Africans pushed on, winning Stage 9 outright, on their way to a Top 5 position. Had they not lost time during Stage 7, a third place overall was a certainty, and a second place may just have been on the cards. But the Dakar, as is often said, is the Dakar – it bites often and it bites hard. LATEGAN/CUMMINGS This was also true for Lategan/Cummings, taking part in their second Dakar Rally together. The three-time South African Cross-Country (SACCS) champions first took on the Dakar in 2021, when a crash on Stage 5 brought a halt to their race. Up until that point, they had shown a lot of pace and promise, but it would be a year before they got a second chance to show their true potential. The pair was immediately fast, but a puncture in Stage 1 saw them change the wheel – only for the wheel studs to sheer off roughly 100 km later, possibly due to some sand residue on the inside of the wheel rim. This cost them more than three hours, dropping them down to fifty-fifth

in the overall rankings. But they fought back despite the setback, and steadily climbed up the leader board. But more than that, they won two stages outright, including the final dash to Jeddah. Lategan is one of the youngest-ever stage winners in the car category at Dakar and, at 27 years of age, he most likely has many more stage wins in his future. Their final ranking of thirty-first is not an accurate reflection of their pace, and a broken wheel hub in Stage 4 that cost them an additional five hours, certainly did not help. Even so, the names of Lategan and Cummings have been etched into Dakar history, thanks to two stage wins. VARIAWA/STASSEN Despite a rocky start, where bad luck and early nerves conspired against Shameer Variawa and Danie Stassen, the pair brought their Toyota Hilux to the finish in fifteenth position overall. This was a marked improvement from Variawa’s previous finish in 2021, where he ended the race in twentieth position. Their best stage came after the Rest Day in Jeddah, as they posted the seventh-fastest time on Stage 7 of the 12-stage rally. This was followed by more Top 20 performances, allowing them to move into fourteenth place overall by Stage 8. They maintained this position until the final stage, when they lost one spot in the overall standings. As with the other crews, Variawa/ Stassen reported no serious mechanical problems with the Toyota Hilux. The minor issues encountered, however, put them off their rhythm early on. But tenacity and a fighting

spirit saw them not only completing the event, but doing so in fine style. There can be no doubt that Dakar 2022 was a successful campaign for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing. Adding a second overall victory brought the team unbridled joy, but it also gave Team Principal Glyn Hall a moment to reflect on the past: “What an epic victory for Nasser and Mathieu, and the entire team. To come to Dakar and win with our new GR DKR Hilux T1+ first time out is amazing. I’d like to dedicate this win to the memory of Dr Johan van Zyl, who was a visionary leader and consistent supporter of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Dakar project over many years. We are extremely proud of what we achieved here this year, and I know the Doc would have been too.” DAKAR 2022 FINAL RESULTS: 1. Al-Attiyah (QAT) / Baumel (AND) TOYOTA GAZOO Racing 38 hr 33 min 3 sec 2. Loeb (FRA) / Lurquin (BEL) Bahrain Raid Xtreme +27 min 46 sec 3. Al Rajhi (SAU) / Orr (GBR) Overdrive Toyota +1 hr 1 min 13 sec 4. Terranova (ARG) / Carreras (ESP) Bahrain Raid Xtreme +1 hr 27 min 23 sec 5. De Villiers (ZAF) / Murphy (ZAF) TOYOTA GAZOO Racing +1 hr 41 min 48 sec 15. Variawa (ZAF) / Stassen (ZAF) TOYOTA GAZOO Racing +3 hr 55 min 33 sec 31. Lategan (ZAF) / Cummings (ZAF) TOYOTA GAZOO Racing +11 hr 51 min 21 sec

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THE VILLAGE NEWS

28 January 2022

MY ENVIRONMENT

Whale Coast Conservation promotes eco-tourism Nothing ever becomes real ‘til it is experienced. - John Keats By Dr Anina Lee

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hale Coast Conservation (WCC) contributes directly to the ‘sense of place’ that is the basis of eco-tourism in the Overstrand by promoting environmental integrity. It is an overall perception of scenic beauty that lingers in the mind and brings tourists back to our area: pristine nature reserves, cared-for coastlines, the splendour of the fynbos, the whales and sharks in an unpolluted sea and the splendid hiking trails. WCC offers a variety of nature-based activities for tourists. We host regular adventures in nature, such as exploring the intertidal zone of our beaches, spider spotting, saving dwarf chameleons threatened by development, understanding the geology of the cliff path, and experiencing the magic of fireflies. Educating our youth is particularly important to WCC. Young people are the future custodians of our environment, so must be well-informed about nature and its importance to their own future wellbeing. To this end, WCC takes interactive and educational learning opportunities to schools in the Overstrand. We also take children on overnight camps

in the Whale Coast Nature Reserve where they sleep under milkwoods and get ‘down and dirty’ in practical conservation activities.

always played second fiddle to infrastructure and development, with predictably negative consequences for the environment.

Behind the scenes, WCC is very involved in conserving and preserving the ‘sense of place’ of the Overstrand. Together with like-minded organisations, we inspire and assist people to clean the beaches, hack the aliens, and care for the little things that add up to our magical whole.

But there is hope. In November 2021 a new Mayor took office in the Overstrand. In her inaugural speech Dr Annelie Rabie placed the Overstrand’s natural wealth as a top priority.

Furthermore, WCC takes the lead on issues that affect our natural environment by making detailed research-based comments during the public participation processes related to legislation and regulation of sensitive natural places. We keep a watch on anything that may impact on our biodiversity and habitats. A case in point is WCC’s seven-year consistent opposition to and well-researched arguments against the proposed Provincial highway through a portion of our protected Fernkloof Nature Reserve. It boggles the mind that anyone can even contemplate such outrageous destruction of protected habitat and the irretrievable loss of the sense of place that this proposal will cause.

PHOTO: Carol Rollings

“The environmental integrity of Overstrand will be a non-negotiable objective of my term of office,” she said, which is exactly what WCC has been striving and struggling for over the past 20 years. She continued: “The outcome I expect, is to establish a full-time Mayco position to deal with all environmental matters, including but not limited to, climate change, carbon footprint, alternative energy, protection of habitat of fauna and flora, as well as an indication of how our environmental assets – land, sea and air – can be used for enhanced tourism and entrepreneurship.” The Mayor further addressed the anomaly of making the environment subordinate to infrastructure and development within the municipal organisational structure by stating:

for all decisions taken in relation to development of whatever kind.”

come again – with their families and friends – and in so doing, swell the numbers of visitors and boost the Whale Coast economy.

For obvious reasons, the Overstrand Municipality is a major player in caring for the integrity of our environment. However, this vital function has been severely hampered by the fact that the Environmental Services function is under-resourced and is housed under the Infrastructure and Planning Directorate.

“The current placement of Environmental Services within the Infrastructure department does not make obvious sense.” We agree – it makes no sense at all. We also agree with her further statement that “… the environment must provide the platform

As a result, the environment has

Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow. - Anita Desai

While some tourists, like the many cyclists or trail runners, do not primarily come here for our unique natural assets, the spectacular environment always leaves a lasting impression. They are sure to want to

By caring for the environment, WCC thus promotes eco-tourism and helps to make a better life for all in the Overstrand.