Edgemead News
January 2012
“Proud to live in Edgemead”
EDGEMEAD NEWS
Tel: 021 558 1214
Cell: 082 473 9928
P.O.Box 1, Edgemead 7407
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Email: [email protected]
Volume 38
Issue 1
January 2012
EDGEMEAD MATRICULANTS SCOOP 196 DISTINCTIONS!
Some of the celebrating matriculants who achieved up to seven distinctions each (see list on page 8) were: Back row from left Tayla
Mirfin, Alexander Finlay, Dillon Lebotschy (Head Prefect) Glen Boltman, Brandon Pieters, Ross Gething, Johann Burger and Bradley
Pieters. In front are Jomare Groenewald and Tamzyn Dugtig.
THIS YEAR IS
EDGEMEAD’S
40TH BIRTHDAY!
1972 - 2012
EDGEMEAD
CHRISTMAS
MARKET
RAFFLE RAISES
R11,420 FOR
PETS PRO-LIFE
ANIMAL RESCUE
From left: A very grateful
and
delighted
Karyn
Scriven of PETS, receiving
a cheque from the Market
co-ordinators Wayne and
Amanda Williams. See also
page 9.
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This Publication Remains the Property of Edgemead Residents Association and is Never Sold.
Page 1
Edgemead News
January 2012
Chairman’s
Corner
I would like to wish all
residents and readers a
very happy New Year,
and sincerely hope that
you had an enjoyable
festive season. Your ERA Committee also
had a break, but we are now refreshed and
keen to meet the challenges of 2012 and
to carry on with the task of serving the
community to the best of our ability.
The first issue facing us at the start
of this year is that of Informal Trading.
There has never been any in our suburb
but, following the arrival last year of the
fruit and veg trader, our ward councillor
has been informed that informal traders
can be permitted or prohibited only once
the area has a Trading Plan.
We have read in the local media that
Ald James Vos has now applied for ONE
Trading Plan for Edgemead, Bothasig,
and Plattekloof, and further that it is
planned to broaden this to cover other
areas as well. This was not discussed with
us, and we are not in agreement. There is
no area of Edgemead which can possibly
be compared to the verges of Plattekloof
Road, with roadside sales of roll-on
lawn. Even neighbouring Bothasig is
very different in character to Edgemead,
let alone our being lumped together with
Bellville and Tygervalley as well.
We also question: Why Edgemead?
To the best of our knowledge, no Plan
has been applied for in respect of Monte
Vista, Plattekloof Glen, Panorama, Welgelegen, Baronetcy, Burgundy, Kleinbosch,
Richwood, Montague Gardens, Sanddrift
or Summer Greens, so why Edgemead?
In the interests of upholding the
standards of our suburb, and of
maintaining the very special character and
ambience of Edgemead, we believe that
a Trading Plan should be very carefully
handled, and that the community must
determine where, how many, and what
type of traders there should be.
For this reason we have officially
objected to the ‘one-size-fits-all’ Trading
Plan, and have requested that the idea
either be scrapped completely or that there
is a Plan which will specifically deal with
Edgemead only, so that the people who
live and work here will be able to decide
on the scope of the project.
The relevant By-law provides for
extensive public participation, but
Edgemead residents cannot be expected
to attend meetings in Bellville, for
example, in order to discuss informal
trading in Edgemead. There is also the
obvious danger that, with a Plan covering
Page 2
such a large area, we won’t even get an
opportunity to be heard. It is up to the
people of Edgemead to decide on the best
and fairest solution.
It was with a feeling of tremendous
excitement that your committee realised
this year is Edgemead’s 40th birthday!
We’d like to plan a few special events
and/or awards during the year to mark
this milestone in our history, and would
welcome suggestions from residents.
Meanwhile, starting with this issue,
there will be a number of reminiscences
and anecdotes printed in each issue of
Edgemead News concerning the history
of our wonderful suburb.
Kind regards
Gary Dewing
Innovative Present Ideas
There were some lovely ideas during December about giving Christmas gifts that
would really help people, but in fact this practice doesn’t have to be confined to
Christmas. Amongst lots of newspaper cuttings squirreled away by this editor, was
one with some splendid advice written by David Biggs of the Cape Argus.
His story started with an elderly friend telling everyone that all he wanted for
his birthday was disposable nappies! After clearly enjoying their astonishment, he
explained that he was dedicating his birthday to a neighbour who had lost his job,
his wife had just had a baby, and they were struggling financially, so he thought
he’d collect some nappies to help them.
Another friend asked for toys for small children, rather than gifts for herself, and
then donated these to orphanages and hospitals.
Instead of buying something that a friend doesn’t actually want or need, how
wonderful to give them the opportunity to feel really good, by giving them something
that they can in turn pass on, and it’s not hard to think of things which will make life
just a little better for the many people who are going through tough times.
By supporting our
Advertisers,
you support our
community
The Edgemead
News is owned by
Edgemead
Residents
Association,
a non-profit
Association, and
any funds we may
raise will flow back
into the community.
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Edgemead News
From your Editor
Although it’s still three months until
Edgemead’s actual 40th birthday, we are
so excited that we can’t wait to begin
publishing the wonderful reminiscences
and stories of our beautiful, very special
suburb - from the very first house in
1972 until today when Garden Cities is
developing the very last piece of available
land. To start with, the first house.
Cyril Tessendorf of Paalenhof is
Edgemead’s “First Resident”, and even
has a certificate to that effect, signed by
Richard Stuttaford, the founder of Garden
Cities in South Africa. Cyril and his wife
Jay paid R14,949 for their property, and
it was the last weekend in April 1972
when the Tessendorf family moved into
their new home in what was then the
“wilderness” of Edgemead.
There were no street lights, no phones,
no shops – just acres and acres of sand and
Port Jackson, and the only roads were the
couple of hundred metres of Edgemead
Drive, and the few roads serving the
handful of completed houses.
Just imagine . . . In 1972
The nearest shop was a café in Bothasig
(where Shoprite Centre is today) where
you could buy bread and milk.
The nearest supermarkets were in
Goodwood and Milnerton.
There was no petrol station, no
streetlights, and no postal service.
No police, and no doctor.
No schools, churches, halls or sports
facilities.
The only access to Edgemead was
from Bosmansdam Road (which stopped
at Edgemead Drive / Vryburger Avenue)
and, when it rained, the road was flooded
and Edgemead residents were marooned!
Lee Engeler
January 2012
Edgemead Bowling Club
by Patrick Mc Guinness
A Message from President Graeme Kemp
We had a very successful 2011. The
calendar was full and many events took
place. Our achievements over the year
have been:
1. The Flag Premier League was won by
Edgemead.
2. The “All Cape” was won by an Edgemead
Team.
3. The “Bellville Pensioners Competition” was
won by an Edgemead team.
4. An Edgemead player took “Silver” in the WP
Champion of Champions.
5. In the WP Open Singles an Edgemead player
took “Silver”.
6. The WP Mixed Pairs a team from Edgemead
took “Gold”
7. An Edgemead player took “Silver” in the WP
Senior singles.
There is no doubt that Edgemead is a
club to be reckoned with. The Clubhouse
received a lot of attention and a number
of improvements were undertaken. Club
competitions are well on their way and we
have noticed a number of surprising results.
It just goes to show that in the game of
bowls there are no guarantees. The success
of our club is clearly due to the excellent
team spirit of our members and the general
“Family” spirit that prevails.
Garden Cities All Day
Friday December 16th was a hugely
successful day. All three greens were put
to use and some great bowling took place.
The winners were:
First Prize: Alan Meadows, Rob Mciver,
John Watkins and Erica van Arkel.
Second Prize: Robbie de Graaf, Mike
Pretorius, Charl du Plooy and Amanda
Leithead.
Third Prize: Ian Harvey, Iris Harvey, Piet
van Antwerpen and “OP” van Heerden.
Fourth Prize: Chris Snyman and his team
from Oakdale.
Four Session Prizes were awarded to
qualifying teams; and four lucky people
won fantastic hampers in our raffle. We
await next year in anticipation.
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Muter & Flag Competitions
The club got off to a great start, with the
Ladies winning all three of their games
and the men winning four out of their six
games.
Dates to Diarise
February 26th - Takkies Day - contact
Anita Groenewald on 083 742 8194 for
further details.
February 4th - We’re having a variety concert
and dinner. Everybody loves a Saturday
night and this will be a Saturday night to
remember. Local artists will “sing” your
favourite songs and perform acts you’ll
love. The performance will be followed
by our very own band providing dance
music until late. Tickets R50 per person
are available from Rosemary Lester Tel
072 146 4315
New Members
Anybody interested in joining please
contact Graeme on 078 792 8438.
Beginners will receive full coaching.
Edgemead News
Extract from an article in the Cape Argus,
April 11 1987
“Writing for the residents - EDGEMEAD
is the only suburb in the Peninsula to have
its own news magazine, published by the
residents’ association.
“Edgemead News is the mouthpiece
of Edgemead Residents’ Association.
It is written by the community for the
community with news submitted from
clubs, churches, schools, the cubs,
brownies, scout and guide leaders, the
sixty-plus club, the sports clubs and
anyone else with something to say of
interest to the area.”
The first little newsletter consisted of one
A4 sheet folded in half to make four small
pages, and contained a questionnaire to
try to find out which sports were most
popular with residents.
In 1982 Edgemead News was eight
years old, and a 16-pager cost R700 to
print. Today, 30 years later, it costs almost
fifteen times that amount!
This newsletter
has come under
threat financially a
few times during
its 38 years of
publication
but,
each
time
its
discontinuance
was discussed at
AGM’s, there was
an outcry from
residents that it
must carry on, and
frantic fund-raising
managed to save it.
Page 3
Edgemead News
January 2012
EDGEMEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL - BACK TO LIFE
On Wednesday 11 January 2012, the playgrounds of Edgemead Primary School
came to life. A record number of children
have been enrolled this year, with numbers
in excess of 1250 children. As exciting as
this is for the school, sadly many applicants
had to be turned away, giving priority to
families living in Edgemead.
Page 4
by Jenni & Hennie Pretorius
The build up to the big day tested the
patience of many. Shopping centres had the
usual ‘back to school’ displays, to which
many parents flocked in order to meet the
needs of their little ones, some who had
outgrown last year’s uniform and some
who would be starting ‘big school’ for the
first time. As the Goodwood school uniform
shop filled, tensions rose and a few harsh
words were exchanged, but a line was soon
formed and order restored.
On the ‘big day’ bumper to bumper traffic
in the vicinity of Edgemead Primary School
continued to test the patience of many.
Going nowhere slowly, racing against the
7:47 school bell, cars carrying precious
‘cargo’ squeezed through rows of parked
cars on either side of the road. Some parents
found the nearest available parking spot and
began their hike with several children in
tow. Once inside the school grounds spirits
were high. Children ran around excitedly
as order began to set in again and parents
waited patiently for school to start.
As soon as the first bell rang, the
Foundation Phase boys and girls lined up
quickly outside their classrooms. The Grade
One children, who were wearing their new
uniforms with a sense of pride, were told
to wave goodbye to their parents and go
inside. The girls line first and then the boys.
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
An exodus ensued, with parents heading
off to their cars and tackling the traffic once
again.
In a newsletter distributed by Mr. van
Vuuren, Principal of Edgemead Primary
School, he thanked all the parents for
their cooperation ensuring a “smooth”,
“successful” start to the year.
All returning pupils were welcomed back
to school, and a special welcome went out
to the new Grade One parents. At hometime parents were met with big grins.
Excited little boys and girls couldn’t wait to
tell their parents about their big day.
Joshua Pretorius, a grade 2 pupil, leaving
his class with a smile at the end of day one.
Photo: Hennie Pretorius
Edgemead News
January 2012
Uncle Bob’s
Cash & Pawn
Pawn Broker & Dealer
in Second Hand Goods
We Pawn, Buy and Sell good used
furniture, appliances, tools and gold
Your good unwanted goods can
provide easy access to cash
We are a registered Credit Provider
and provide secured loans on goods
as an alternative to selling
Give us a call and try us out
Tel: 021 592 1060
211 VOORTREKKER ROAD
c/o Voortrekker and Cook Streets
GOODWOOD (Opposite Vasco Station)
From left Jean Field, Andrea English, Ann Phocas and Jenny Glover at the handover
of a cheque from the Harcourts Foundation to Little Lambs. Little Lambs is committed
to reduce child poverty, reduce chronic hunger, and develop hope in the hearts of
children in our midst. www.littlelambsnpo.co.za
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Page 5
Edgemead News
January 2012
WATER COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATES
NOW OBLIGATORY
FOR PROPERTY SALES
On seeing Faucet’s ad for their well-known local plumbing
company, we felt that residents would like more details of the
relevant new water by-law.
One of the most important changes is the stipulation that,
on the transfer of any property to a new owner, a certificate of
compliance of the water installation must now be obtained.
Pest and electrical certificates have been mandatory for
some years, but now certification by a qualified and accredited
plumber is also required. He must confirm that:
●The hot water cylinder complies with SANS 10252 and
10254;
●The water meter registers;
●There are no water leaks on the property;
●Water pipes and terminal fittings are correctly fixed in
position;
●No stormwater is discharged into the sewerage system;
●There is no cross connection between the potable supply
and any grey water or groundwater system which may be
installed.
Certificates of Compliance must be obtained for
sales of domestic, commercial and industrial
properties, including sectional title units.
New Charity Stitching Group Launched
Every Tuesday, from 17 January 2012 onwards, knitters and
crocheters are encouraged to come for coffee and chatter
while they knit/stitch items which can be donated to charity.
All wool, needles, etc. needs to be purchased; and the items
asked for are squares for blankets, beanies for babies, jerseys for
babies and children, booties . . . whatever is needed out there.
This will be from 10:30 till 12:30 every Tuesday at the home
of Lynne of Stitchers Den, 88 Letchworth Drive, Edgemead.
Lynne’s invitation is:
“Come and put your skill to use to bless others.
Knit for Charity and enjoy a
cuppa and good chatter whilst you’re at it.”
Page 6
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Edgemead News
LETTER FROM A RESIDENT
I have lived in Edgemead for more than
10 years and moved here because it was
Edgemead. It is a unique suburb with its
own atmosphere as well as customs and
special lifestyle. That is why so many
people want to live here and houses sell
fast all year round. You need only walk
around the neighbourhood or stroll in the
mall to see for yourself what it’s like if
you don’t already know. It is a clean, well
looked after suburb which also has two of
the best schools in the Western Cape.
Apart from the fruit and veg trader who
recently moved into the mall area under
controversial circumstances, we have no
other “informal traders” to speak of.
Recently, in the Tyger Burger, the
Guardian and other tabloids, we were
informed that a trading plan is “in the
pipeline” and will help regulate informal
trade in the area.
The city currently has bylaws which
prohibit this kind of trading as well as a
law enforcement body which is supposed
to control any illegal trading. Local shop
owners who were polled about this matter
January 2012
are not happy about the idea, and one
only has to take a ride along Voortrekker
Road or Adderley Street to see the result.
An area about 1 by 3 meters (rectangle)
was allocated in certain spots along
the sidewalk and has digressed into a
tarpaulin covered mess. There are no
ablution facilities or bins and all manner
of knockoff, counterfeit goods are sold
without any or very little control. IS THIS
WHAT WE WANT IN EDGEMEAD?
Before any decisions can be made
and/or plans submitted, the residents of
Edgemead need to be consulted according
to the articles in the tabloids as well as the
bylaws of the city.
Having been privy to the process in
another suburb, I would be ill advised
not to highlight this matter and advise
all residents to take note of the situation
and attend the proposed meetings in order
to listen to suggestions and voice your
opinions in this regard.
Once the matter has been decided and
implemented it cannot be reversed except
at great cost. You will only have one
opportunity to make the correct decision.
Personally I am not for or against
the idea but believe it needs the
total co-operation and input from
all residents in order for it to be
well controlled when implemented,
and all parties need to be considered
and consent to the idea.
Let’s hear what the rest of the
residents have to say. Do yourselves
a favour and get involved and let
Edgemead and its residents be the
winners.
A happy but concerned resident
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Page 7
Edgemead News
January 2012
EDGEMEAD MATRICULANTS SCOOP 196 DISTINCTIONS!
More and more cars arrived, and more and more anxious pupils and parents gathered
outside Edgemead High as noon approached on January 5th. Then, once the doors were
opened, there were squeals of joy and excitement, hugs, broad grins and handshakes,
and the almost palpable pride emanating from both parents and teaching staff.
There was every reason to be proud with almost 70% of the matriculants having
qualified for university entrance, and with the number of distinctions earned
increasing to an exceptional 196. There were some excellent results, and the school
was particularly delighted with those achieved in Mathematics and Physical Science.
Modest (and camera-shy) principal, Mr Redvers Lawrence, emphasized that credit
must also be given to all the dedicated staff who contributed to the success of these
candidates. But he clearly cares deeply about the pupils too, wishes them well, and
looks forward to hearing of their successes in the future.
Top achievers were (in alphabetical order):
7 Distinctions: Alexander Finlay, Jomare Groenewald
6 Distinctions: Tayla Mirfin, Bradley Pieters, Brandon Pieters
5 Distinctions: Storm Blake, Glen Boltman, Ross Gething, Bellamy Groom, Kasia Hearn, Mika Vermeulen
4 Distinctions: Jody April, Johann Burger, Tamzyn Dugtig, Dana Lewis, Adam Sundstrom
From left: With seven distinctions each are Alexander Finlay and
Jomare Groenewald pictured here with Head of Academics, Mrs
De Verra Vollgraaff, and Head of Grade 12, Mr Fanie Stassen.
Alexander Finlay has many years of
studying ahead with his career choice of
Business Science, CA Stream. He made
the decision after “shadowing” someone
at KPMG during the 2010 July holidays,
and will spend the next four years at UCT
to gain his Bachelor degree, followed by
three years’ Articles to qualify him as a
Chartered Accountant. He is very happy
with his results, although he would also
have liked to achieve a little more.
Jomare Groenewald has always
enjoyed chemistry and done well in the
subject, and she has chosen to study
for a Chemical Engineering degree
at Stellenbosch University. Although
she hails from neighbouring Bothasig,
Jomare’s whole high school career has
been at EHS. She has met her expectations
with this excellent result, but feels she
could perhaps have done just a little bit
better.
Page 8
Dolphins are so smart
that within a few weeks of captivity,
they can train people to stand on the very edge
of the pool and throw them fish.
WHY WE SHOULD BECOME YOUR
REAL ESTATE COMPANY OF CHOICE
● Since 1979, the trusted and successful name in Edgemead Real Estate
● Free, Accurate and Prompt Valuations backed by our long experience
and actual sales in Edgemead
● A firm reputation for success, honesty and integrity established
over 28 years
Contact your professional property consultants:
Cathryn: 072 797 2793
Lynne/Jim: 082 785 8062
Office: 021 558 5424
Email: [email protected]
www.lynnenew.co.za
THINK GREEN - THINK LYNNE NEW ESTATES
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Edgemead News
January 2012
NO MORE DIRTY WINDOWS IN
EDGEMEAD!
Dirty
● Domestic and commercial window and
The founder of an innovative company has just moved to live
property cleaning
in Edgemead – Cheryl of Dirty Window Cleaning Service
● End of contract cleaning (rental or sold
c.c. – and, on seeing Edgemead News for the first time, she
property)
contacted us to place an ad.
● Builders or craftsmen clean up
Chatting over coffee, it was clear that this slight, attractive
young woman who started the company in June 2010 is a
dynamic “bundle of energy”! Cheryl has always been a
● Windows of houses, shops, showrooms,
practical, hands-on person, something learned from her father
factories
at an early age, and has had quite a wide variety of jobs. Two
● We use professional cleaning products
● The team is neat, hygenic, quiet and well
of the most enjoyable were the time spent in the housekeeping
supervised
section of the Kilkenny River Court, a beautiful hotel in an
idyllically beautiful part of rural Ireland; and stewardess on a luxury passenger ship which
plied between the Mediterranean and Caribbean.
But apart from these glamorous interludes Cheryl’s business career has been mainly in the
Cheryl Sadie
building maintenance and painting industry, which was a logical background for her to venture
084 251 3909
[email protected]
into her current field.
www.dirtywindowcleaning.com
Her company handles both domestic and industrial/commercial aspects. On the domestic
side, Cheryl and her team will clean house windows on a regular or ad hoc basis, or just
once-off following building alterations, property sales or end of rentals. On request she
will also clean blinds, and even remove all those leaves which constitute “gutter clutter”.
On the commercial and industrial side, the staff are trained in cleaning everything from shopfront and showroom glasses, up to third
storey with ladders, or up to eight storeys with access platforms or “cherry pickers”. A huge recent job was cleaning the new 18m high
SAPS forensic lab building in Plattekloof, which has been under construction for four years and where Cheryl was contracted to clean
off all the accumulation of building dust and dirt prior to official handover.
Cheryl works with her staff, assuming responsibility for the premises and also to “set the pace”; and uses only top quality professional
equipment and cleaning agents, refusing to even consider cheap, imported alternatives.
Window
Cleaning
Service cc
EDGEMEAD CHRISTMAS MARKET 2011
A fantastic success for the NINTH consecutive year, with a large ornate gazebo covered in fairy lights and vines, and a 1.8m high Christmas tree
sparkling with lights and decorations, setting the scene at the entrance.
With 209 exhibitors, local crafters as well as many from further afield,
there were some familiar goods on offer as well as a number of interesting
new items, such as designer pottery, designer glassware, traditional
American fudge, innovative pinafores, and other delights. Small wonder
that numbers of people travelled from all over Cape Town to visit the
Market, and were as thrilled as they had been in the past.
The Kfm Ground Patrol Team made a special visit to the Edgemead
Christmas Market on Saturday 17th December to hand out promotional
items and encourage shoppers to support the raffle in aid of PETS, a prolife rescue organisation that helps animals in townships. A total of R11 420
was raised for PETS, and they were overwhelmed when they received the
donation saying that they were in desperate need of the funds and greatly
appreciated the public’s support. www.pets.org.za
The raffle was won by Richwood resident Wyona Ramgauer, her
prize being a hot air ballooning experience for two people including a
champagne breakfast; as well as a special gift hamper.
An excited Wyona Ramgauer from Richwood won the raffle prize at this
year’s Edgemead Christmas Market - a hot air ballooning experience for
two people including a champagne breakfast and special gift hamper. She
is pictured here with event coordinator Wayne Williams.
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Page 9
Edgemead News
January 2012
It would take a heavy toll
It is small wonder that both the Province and the City of Cape Town
are bitterly opposed to the SA National Roads Agency (SANRAL)
plan to establish a R10 billion toll project that would include 105km
of the N1 and 70km of the N2, including two new tunnels.
Last year there was such widespread public outcry regarding
the R20-billion Gauteng toll road system that Transport Minister,
S’bu Ndebele, initially scrapped the tolls pending further public
participation. However, a few months ago he simply announced
that the decision had been taken.
COSATU is furious! They say that the road system has been
paid for by generations of taxpayers through direct taxes and
fuel levies, and they doubt whether the toll fees will be used
effectively. They further say that the inflated rates charged for
the toll roads will place an incredible burden on road users, while
those who benefit from the system will enjoy huge profits.
The tolling of the routes around Cape Town will affect every
one of us, not only increasing direct transport costs, but also
increasing costs of goods and services transported into or out of
the City. They could even lead to staff retrenchments. As usual,
it is likely to be the poorest members of society who will suffer
the most from this rise in the cost of living, from higher prices
for food and other basic necessities to higher transport costs.
The City, agreeing that disadvantaged communities would be
particularly affected by the tolls, and believing that the impact
had not been adequately assessed, applied for an interdict to
prevent SANRAL from taking further steps, but their High
Court bid was postponed because SANRAL has agreed to halt
the project so the parties can resolve the issue.
As matters now stand, the City will proceed with an
intergovernmental dispute process, and we must fervently hope
that the City will win the fight.
STOP PRESS: On 13 January 2012 SANRAL postponed the
Gauteng tolls pending the resolution of concerns and issues
raised in petitions submitted to Transport Minister Sibusiso
Ndebele. COSATU said: “This is a significant victory for the
millions of residents of Gauteng who have expressed their total
opposition to this attempt to force them to pay huge amounts of
extra money just to travel on the province’s highways.”
Amid the public furore, the department halted any future
planned tolling of roads in the country, including the planned
phase 2 of GFIP, Cape Winelands and the Wild Coast.
There’s hope for us yet!
Wise Words, Well Worth Reading
This was the speech made at our General Meeting in November
by Mr Charl Viljoen from the City’s Department of Safety and
Security.
Mr Viljoen asked those present what they thought caused
crime. He said many people believed it was poverty, but it could
not be because many wealthy people committed fraud. It was
also not unemployment, because people without jobs were not
necessarily criminals. He explained it was effectively a process.
It was similar to a garden – the amount of nurturing determined
the fruit produced. In the case of crime it was simple, and
started when someone threw a rock, and no one repaired the
broken window. In 24 hours a message had been sent out that
people didn’t care. Another example was a car, left untouched
for weeks until one window was damaged and left unrepaired
and, within half an hour, stripping had begun and within a few
days all that remained was a burnt out wreck.
He pointed out that there was no littering at the V&A
Waterfront or the airport. It was even interesting to see that in
those areas the taxis stayed on the left of the road, slowed down
and behaved well – they were sensitive to the environment.
Graffiti was another turning point because a community which
neglected to remove graffiti sent out a powerful message of lack
of control. Next came drinking in public and prostitution. The
mood of residents changed, and one saw higher walls, bigger
Page 10
dogs and more private security company signs. Then came
drugs, and gangs grew out of all that. Manenberg is an example
– because the problems were not stopped at the beginning.
Today you cannot walk the streets without bodyguards. The
police are exhausted and “burnt out”, and their desperation over
the situation leads to instances of police brutality. A community
must “douse the flames” from the bottom, from the start, clean
their area, and reduce crime.
Deterrents to home invasion were: security lights 9%, high
fences 25% (but only if they can be seen through), dogs 25%
(preferably lots of them and inside the house) but the single
biggest deterrent value was an active neighbourhood watch. We
live in such fear that it has clouded our thinking. With lights
and burglar bars and dogs and alarms we effectively go to prison
in our homes at night while criminals roam free! We did not
vote for this in ’94. We hope that the crime statistics are warped
because with the number of murders divided into the population
we have only one chance in 2,500 of not being attacked.
Communities must get involved and join their neighbourhood
watch. It doesn’t help to blame the police, we need to get our
hands dirty and build our own safety so that we can freely
walk our streets at night. We must care about our neighbours,
and learn from other groups in our communities. Freedom is
everything.
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Edgemead News
January 2012
Friends of the Edgemead Library
Fundraising
by Chairperson, Melanie Andrzejewski
The Committee has pleasure in reporting on the
successful Craft Market held in November/December
2011. Almost 1000 individual items were sold, the
most by Olivia Esterhuizen whose delicious fudge
and lucky packet surprises went down very well. The
highest sales figure was Liz Lourens’ for her jewellery,
frames and ornaments made from recycled metal.
The total turnover was an amazing R16,519, of
which 10% is retained by the Friends making a profit of
R1,651.90.
We would like to thank all the crafters who participated, and everyone who supported
them by purchasing goods. A special thank you also to the library staff for assistance
when needed – and for the cups of tea!
Change in Library Hours
There is a slight change in the library hours from 1 February, but the total number of
open hours will stay at 45 hours per week.
The days that will be affected by the change are Wednesdays, Thursdays and
Fridays.
Mondays
9:30 – 18:00
Tuesday
9:30 – 18:00
Wednesdays 9:00 – 17:00
Thursdays
Fridays
10:30 – 18:00
9:00 – 17:00
Saturdays 8:30 – 13:00
SURGERY
Dr J. KIRKBY
Dr G. COUPLAND
Dr R. HACKING
Dr N. FOURIE
EDGEMEAD
SHOPPING CENTRE
(NEXT TO GARDEN CITIES)
Tel: 021 558 1011
After Hours: 021 712 6699
The reason for the decision to open later on a
Thursday is solely to provide an opportunity for
some in-house training, do book discussions & have
proper, not-so-rushed meetings. This is because,
in the words of our Principal Librarian, Lorraine
Mathewson: “We want to serve our community
better!”
CAR BOOT SALES
@ Edgemead Library
JANUARY – MARCH 2012
28 January
4 February
3 March
COFFEE SHOP
@ Edgemead Library
22 MARCH 2012
Talk on “Easy Entertaining”
with a cooking demonstration
For details please phone
Melanie 083 973 8144 or email
[email protected]
31 March
To book please contact Melvin
at Stall 13 or Tel 076 689 5288com
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Page 11
Edgemead News
January 2012
EDGEMEAD RUNNERS
2010/2011 was a very successful year for Edgemead Runners. The
club membership grew by approximately 40% & we have indeed
become a force to be reckoned with in Western Province Athletics.
Our beginners group was established in 2010, is very active &
is still growing on a weekly basis. The general performance of
our members is commendable & our participation at races has
increased dramatically in the last year.
The 2011/2012 Club Committee elected at our AGM in October
2011 are the following: Francois Gouws (Chairman), Riaan
Muller (Men’s Club Captain), Charlene Brown (Ladies Club
Captain), Christo Bothma (Financial Officer), Shaun Martheze
(Secretary), Brian Merryweather (Registration Officer), Lindy
Matzke (Social Convener) & Steve McCarthy (Race Events
Convener). 2 Club Members have also been elected to the
WPA Board for 2011/2012. Richard van Schalkwyk has been
elected as Financial Officer & Glynis Bowie has been elected
as Chairman of Road Running. Congratulations to all & good
luck with the tasks ahead!
Our Annual Year End Club Awards Evening took place in
November 2011 & was well supported. Congratulations to the
following recipients!
The Tygerberg Aquatics floating trophy
Criteria: “Awarded to a member for regular participation and
consistent performances during the Cross Country season”
Recipient: Kelly Bestbier
Edgemead Primary School Junior Shield
Criteria: “Awarded to the most promising junior boy”
Recipient: Liam Brinders
Walker Trophy
Criteria: “Awarded to the most promising junior girl”
Recipient: Micaela Swart
The 7 – 11 Shield
Criteria: “Awarded to the most improved runner in terms of
time and / or distance improvement over the previous year”
Recipient: Wendy Jansen
Video Express Trophy
Criteria: “Awarded to the runner with the best spirit in the club.
One who best reflects our motto “Fitness & Friendship”
Recipient: Erwin Rencken
Edgemead High School Bronze Shoe
Criteria: “Awarded to the most persevering runner”
Recipient: Richard Goodhead
Verdi’s Bronze Shoe
Criteria: “Awarded for the best single performance by an
individual in terms of time and position in a particular event”
Recipient: Windell Nortje
Isle of Man Trophy
Criteria: Awarded to the Master or Grandmaster who has
achieved the most during the past year”
Recipient: Lynda Fillmore
Cape Trophies Shield
Criteria: “Awarded to the most dedicated club member”
Recipient: Francois Gouws
We stand at the beginning of a new year & anticipate a very
exciting 2012! We look back at a busy December 2011, but also
with a lot of sadness. On Monday, 26 December 2011 we said
goodbye to one of our most promising junior club members.
Liam Brinders passed away while taking part in the Manor
House 16km Race in Tokai. We salute you & know that your
memory & spirit will always be with us! Our deepest sympathies
are with the Brinders family in this time of sorrow.
On Saturday, 31 December 2011 we hosted our annual
Runners Memorial 8km Race at the Mouille Point Lighthouse.
Approximately 1300 runners completed the run in near perfect
weather conditions. Thank you to all who participated, our
sponsors, our Race Convener, Mervyn Lee and all club members
who contributed in any way big or small.
Our weekly Pilates classes, time trials & club runs are well
attended & we plan interesting changes to the format of these runs
in the coming year. Thanks to Gavin, Erwin, Pierre & Faffa for
your commitment
& guidance with
the beginner group
as well as those
members assisting
with club runs &
time trial duties!
We
welcome
everyone wanting
to get fit, start
walking or running
and even those that
want to start running
again after years
of inactivity. If you would like to find out more about us and/
or join the club please go to www.edgemeadrunners.org.za or
email us on [email protected]. Alternatively
you can contact Charlene Brown (Ladies Club Captain) on
082 782 0953 or Riaan Muller (Men’s Club Captain) on
083 440 7820 for more info.
The Sundowner 10km Race in the V & A Waterfront in December
is always treated as a club group and the December 2011 Race
was no exception. 77 Club Members joined us in our run and the
spirit & camaraderie was ever present. A big thank you to all for
your support & well done!
Page 12
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Edgemead News
January 2012
PRETTY AS A
PICTURE
MOST RESPECTED PERSON IN THE WORLD
South Africans will be proud
to learn that an international
survey has shown that the
most respected person in the
world is our former President,
Nelson Mandela. This is the
result of a survey conducted by
the Reputation Institute with
over 50’000 people from 25
countries, where respondents
expressed their attitude towards
54 public figures from politics,
business, sports and culture.
Second in the world is Roger Federer, who also leads the
ranking of most respected athletes. Of course we can claim
a bit of credit there as well,
with Roger’s mother having
been born in South Africa,
but it is interesting to learn
that this tennis icon is also a
philanthropist whose charity
foundation currently benefits
more than 42,000 children
in various African countries,
including South Africa.
The personalities following
Nelson Mandela and the 16times Grand Slam champion
are (in order): businessman Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, the late
Steve Jobs, US TV host Oprah Winfrey, musician Bono and
Queen Elizabeth II.
On receiving an eChristmas
card with a photograph of
the owner of Photo Journal,
we wanted to meet this
most attractive resident. It
was fascinating to hear that
Desirè actually started off on
the other side of the camera
lens, having been a top
photographic model from the
age of 14.
Of course, she was the talk
of the school and, she admits,
it was very disruptive when
she was regularly fetched
during school hours and taken off for photo shoots. She
modelled clothing, beachwear and footwear, hair and make-up,
and her photographs appeared in numerous newspapers and
magazines.
Desirè met her husband Arthur through the swimming and
lifesaving club to which they had both belonged from a very
young age. Once married, Desirè gave up modelling and, some
years later, studied photography at the Technikon, the Cape
Town School of Photography and the Ruth Prowse School of
Art. Arthur bought her a wonderful camera, and she has never
looked back. Portraiture is her forte, and she has a special
technique which ensures that she brings out the best in people,
even those who are normally camera shy.
It was the portraiture aspect which led to Desirè also opening
a beauty salon. While still modelling she had won a beauty
competition with a prize of a beautician’s course and, of course,
as a model she had learned a lot about make-up. Clients coming
for photography and needing make-up prompted her to take
refresher courses and, over the years, one business has grown
from the other.
Desirè is very appreciative of the wonderful support of
Edgemeadians during her 22 years in the suburb. She is always
keen to help someone ‘get a foot in the door’, and has had a
number of students “shadow” her in both studios. She also
offers discounts for pensioners; and both she and Arthur do
voluntary work at their church.
Desirè has an important message, perhaps especially
important for our matrics at this time: If you are passionate
about something, you will be successful. With passion you
will excel.
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Page 13
Edgemead News
Edgemead Neighbourhood Watch Plans to
Increase Operational Activities
January 2012
2012 seems to have arrived rather quickly and we wish everyone a happy and successful
year ahead. Last year our energy was spent mostly on establishing the ENW. Now, as we are
100% operational, it is time to increase our patrols and combined operations with the Law
Enforcement Agencies and security companies.
75 of the 128 ENW members have indicated that they are willing to participate in vehicle,
foot or bike patrols, but there are only 40 members actually doing patrols. Although it is
NOT a requirement for members to do patrols, we would like to encourage the remaining 35
members, who have indicated that they are willing to participate, to come forward and join
the regular patrollers. Other activities will include large group foot and bike patrols, static
observation operations and visibility events. If the Edgemead residents see the ENW, then so
do the criminals and this will act as a deterrent to them.
We will continue with our marketing and sponsorship activities during 2012 as this is
the only way the ENW can remain sustainable. We encourage all
businesses to get involved in the ENW and assist with our main
objective: Crime Prevention in Edgemead and surrounding areas.
Remember that everyone benefits when there is a neighbourhood
watch in their suburb.
Last but not least, we are on the lookout for new members - our aim for
2012 is to at least double our membership, hence providing more eyes
and ears in Edgemead. We invite all residents to contact us, to find
out more about the ENW, and to join. We are looking for patrollers,
administrators (members to occupy our sector communications office
in Winterhoek Street) and people who would like to be the “eyes and
ears” of Edgemead. Runners and Joggers are also welcome to join as
they see a lot during their training sessions.
Ian Cormack
ENW Chairman
Albert Einstein said that the difference
between intelligence and stupidity is that
stupidity has no limits.
DR CINDY
WOODMAN
B.Sc., M.B.Ch.B. (U.C.T)
General Practitioner
Cell: 081 41 71 035
LIZELLE
VAN VIEGEN
B.Sc. Physio (U.F.S)
Registered Physiotherapist
54B Vryburger Avenue
Bothasig
Tel: 021 558 8580
Page 14
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Edgemead News
January 2012
Councillor’s Comment
DA Ward Councillor Alderman James Vos
Telephone 021 590 1680 Fax 021 590 1685
[email protected]
Ward Committees: The City of Cape Town is
in the process of establishing ward committees
which are chaired by the respective ward
councillors and provide a channel for
communication and interaction between communities and the
municipality. Ward committees also fulfil an advisory role for ward
councillors, assisting them in carrying out their mandate in the most
democratic and effective manner possible. Ward committees are
the official liaison mechanism on all strategic municipal matters
with communities.
Traffic Services: South Africa presently has an unacceptably
high accident rate. National figures show that the one in three
non-natural deaths in South Africa are transport related. It is
equally clear that poorly conceived legislation, the dropping of the
instructor’s licence system, unaddressed corruption in licensing
centres, haphazard enforcement, and a variety of other avoidable
events over the last decade have contributed to the rising number
of fatalities. I am in discussions with the Department of Safety
and Security to motivate for the training and deployment of more
traffic personnel, Law Enforcement and Metro Police officers.
Informal trading: You may have read recently in the media of my
plans to initiate a workable trading plan for Edgemead, Bothasig, and
Plattekloof Road. It is an initiative that I believe serves the community
with a managed and controlled plan that ensures a livelihood for informal
traders in harmony with the surrounding community. The provision of
managed trading sites will enable informal traders to co-exist with the
formal business sector in a convivial and legitimate environment and
partnership. In turn, this will benefit the neighbourhoods in which they
operate, providing them with a plethora of goods and as a consequence
providing the vendors with employment, additional much needed
income and their potential growth creating further employment
opportunities. It goes without saying that the necessary consultations
with affected and concerned parties will take place during the course
of the next few months.
Parks project: The Adopt-a-Park scheme has been very
successful, with several parks being adopted by local residents. The
assistance with the maintenance, watering and the fixing and painting
of play equipment has been wonderful, we all benefit from it. We
are currently in discussions with the Parks Department to consider
improved service level agreements in respect of maintenance and
improvements. Further to this, I am also in talks with several churches
and other interest groups to embrace the adopt-a-park project as part
of their community service. We have selected a number of parks
throughout the area to form part of this programme. I am pleased to
report that these groups have already commenced with the repainting
of park play apparatus throughout Edgemead.
Water pipes: A serious issue of concern is the incidence of burst
water pipes and, although Water and Sanitation Services strive to
do the best they can with the limited resources at their disposal, the
situation is nevertheless intolerable. In an attempt to bring some
resolve to this issue I had several meetings with the municipality to
motivate for a streamlined approach with regard to reinstatements
and pipe repairs. The outcome of our talks is that a pipe replacement
programme is being planned, and areas allocated to dedicated
pipe replacement teams. In addition, we will commence with the
installation of water pressure management systems within the next
few weeks throughout Edgemead in an effort to optimise the water
supply network and to minimize excessive pressures within the
supply system which are resulting in numerous supply disruptions
and water losses such as pipe bursts.
FONTAINE BLEAU RETIREMENT VILLAGE
VACANCY
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR (FROM 1ST MARCH 2012) (HALF DAY)
Organised and dependable person is sought to perform the administrative
and accounting activities.Applicants must be computer literate and
possess a knowledge of accounting principles and practices.
A detailed post description is available from the office, or can be sent
to you by Email.
Note: All applications must be sent in writing, or delivered by hand,
and addressed to:
The Chairman (Confidential),
Fontaine Bleau Retirement Village
Rothschild Boulevard
Welgelgen 7500
Closing date 1 February 2012
Tel: 021- 5590947 ● Fax: 021- 5590942
Email: [email protected]
Safety Tips from Swart Security
The holidays are over.
There is no longer “someone at home”.
PLEASE make sure before you leave that your house is securely
locked. These are wise words of caution from Hendrik Swart
of Swart Security whose patrolling officers have noticed some
unsecured premises during these first weeks of back to work and
back to school.
An interesting aspect mentioned by Hendrik was what to do if
you have a panic alarm system and your domestic pushes one of
the buttons by mistake! Imagine yourself, kilometres away from
home, your alarm clanging away, and your nearly hysterical maid
crying on the phone.
Don’t panic!
Swart Security Control Room staff will, as usual, ring your
house within minutes after the alarm is activated. You can make
arrangements with them for your domestic to have her own password
and, once Swart has established that it is your maid, and that all is
well on the property, the response will come out to the premises and
disarm the system in the presence of someone at home.
Relieved domestic!
Very relieved neighbours!
That’s why Swart Security promises you a complete safety and
security solution.
www.edgemeadnews.co.za
Editor:
Lee Engeler
Design & Layout:
Andre van Wilgen
Lee Engeler
Printer: CTP Printers
Tel: 021 929 6200
Distributor:
P. Le Grange & Sons
Tel: 021 939 9117
Advertising:
TO ADVERTISE IN
EDGEMEAD NEWS
Email:
[email protected]
or telephone:
Gary Dewing 083 275 5339
or
Reece Hanning 082 451 5436
Page 15
Edgemead News
Page 16
January 2012
www.edgemeadnews.co.za