Local band ThreeohFive emerged victorious at the 2024 Aandklas Battle of the Bands in Stellenbosch on 31 August. This incredible feat not only showcases the band's exceptional music skills, but also puts the spotlight on their Hermanus roots.

ThreeohFive is made up of drummer Werner van Niekerk, guitarist Tré Hadingham, and lead singer and guitarist Victor Andrew Perkins who all call Hermanus home. Their musical journey began two years ago in a humble garage, where they fine-tuned their sound, and crafted performances that would eventually captivate audiences far and wide.

The band recently welcomed talented bassist Albert Kotze from Cape Town to the group, further elevating their electrifying performances.

"Our new Aandklas champions brought their A-game to every single performance and blew the crowd and the judges away every night. This battle was especially tough as we saw some of the strongest finalists to date,” said Aandklas Stellenbosch in a post on Facebook.

"We are incredibly proud of our roots in Hermanus," says Victor, "This win is not just for us – it is for everyone who has supported us along the way. We started in a garage with big dreams and now we have the chance to take our music to new heights."

The band's triumph at Battle of the Bands is a testament to their talent and perseverance, serving as inspiration to aspiring musicians in Hermanus.

The Onrus Volleyball Club (OVC), in partnership with the Onrus Ratepayers & Home Owners Association (ORHA) and Milk on the Beach, organised a clean-up at Onrus Beach which took place throughout the day on Saturday 7 September. 

The storm in September 2023 wreaked havoc on the Onrus River estuary, and pieces of wood, reeds, and old seaweed still occasionally wash ashore and mix in with the sand after heavy rains or large swells. The goal for the clean-up was to clear as much of this debris from the beach as possible to prevent people from getting hurt. 

The volunteer clean-up team consisted of OVC, ORHA, and members of the public. The first 20 people on the scene received a free coffee from Milk on the Beach. OVC also set up their net on the beach, to enjoy a game of volleyball after the clean-up.  

OVC meets on a Tuesday and a Thursday at 17:30 depending on the weather. To join their WhatsApp group for updates message 082 800 1600, or follow them on Facebook (Onrus Volleyball Club). 

Old rivals Hawston RFC and Kleinmond RFC faced off in an exciting rugby season final on Saturday 7 September at the Hawston Sports Grounds.

Both sides brought their A-game, with spectators poised on the edge of their seats. 

Both the Hawston B and C teams dominated against Kleinmond, winning 17 – 8 and 22 – 0 respectively, before the A teams took to the field. Hawston took an early lead, but Kleinmond turned things around in the second half, catching up to Hawston. Hawston kept their composure and went on to win the game with a close final score of 36 – 34.

A beautiful display of lights has been installed at Burgundy Restaurant in Hermanus as part of an initiative to raise funds for new festive lights for Hermanus. 

This project, spearheaded by René Hartslief, aims to create renewed interest and draw people into the Overstrand, just as the lights in Stanford did last year.

“The only way that we will be able to achieve this exciting, needle-moving initiative is by means of raising funds,” says René, “I would therefore like to ask every single resident and every local business in Hermanus to contribute and invest towards this project. We live in paradise! Let's showcase Hermanus to the world this festive season and light it up in a spectacular way. 

“Together we can achieve this, but we need everybody’s support as we have to raise an enormous amount of money in a short space of time. These lights are a long-term investment and every year we can add little by little. 

"Working together will enable all of us to take pride in showing off our beautiful town and enhancing our local and international visitors’ experience by creating a magical ambience during the summer holiday season. The spinoffs for Hermanus, I believe, will be considerable."

These new ‘Underwater Magic’ themed festive lights will be produced by the same company that did such a phenomenal job decorating Stanford last year, and will last in excess of 10 years. 

Should you be interested in donating to this fund, please contact René on 083 648 8700. 

The lights are switched on at Burgundy Restaurant in the evenings when the sun starts to set at around 18:30. Be sure to go and have a look.

Ilé Viljoen, Maya Tager, and Summer Thwaits from Grip Gymnastics in Hermanus have been selected to represent South Africa at the 13th annual FIG Acrobatic Gymnastics World Age Group Competition (WAGC), which takes place in Guimaraes, Portugal from 12 – 15 September 2024. WAGC forms part of the Acrobatic Gymnastics World Championships which will run from 19 – 22 September this year.

The three young gymnasts will compete against 49 of the top groups in the world in the 12 – 18 Women's Group section. Keep an eye on Grip Gymnastics’ Facebook page for more updates and to watch them perform live.

Cllr Hybre Lombard, Ilé Viljoen, Summer Thwaits, Maya Tager, and Isabelle Carr (Grip Gymnastics coach and owner).  

Hermanus High School (HHS) faced off against Worcester Gymnasium (WG) in their annual inter-schools for winter sports last week from 5 to 9 August. The summer sport matches, which also fall under inter-schools, took place earlier this year, and comprised of swimming, tennis, golf and cricket. 

The first team trophy for cricket was won by HHS, and the girls hockey trophy was shared between both schools. The sports code trophies for cricket, golf, tennis, and girls hockey were awarded to HHS, with WG winning the boys hockey, rugby, netball, chess, and swimming trophies. The overall winner of inter-schools was WG, who beat HHS by 1 point.

Despite the loss, the Hermies showed amazing gees and sportsmanship, proudly supporting their schoolmates. The two schools will face off again next year at Hermanus High School, who will have a chance to reclaim the inter-schools trophy. 

A new riding school and equestrian centre has recently opened its doors on Hamilton Russell Vineyards in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

Called Elysium Sport Horses, the centre is owned and run by 23-year-old horse lover and award-winning equestrian competitor Sophia Byleveld, who spent the past few weeks with her family and friends renovating the stables on the farm, and building an arena and new paddocks. Sophia is helped on the farm by stable manager Bethany and groomsman John. 

The current riders at Elysium Sport Horses have been performing very well under Sophia’s guidance, with all of them participating in the regional school league show this last weekend. Follow Elysium Sport Horses on Facebook and Instagram for updates on their results throughout the year.

For more information please email Sophia at elysiumsporthorses@gmail.com. 

Victor Hogan (right) and Adrian Swart (left) from the Overberg recently represented South Africa at the Paris Olympics which took place from 26 July to 11 August.

Victor, who went to Overberg High School in Caledon and now lives in Kleinmond, was first to compete on 5 August in the men's discus throw alongside fellow South African Francois Prinsloo. They faced tough competition, battling it out against 30 other top athletes from around the world. Although they gave it their best, unfortunately they did not qualify for the final which was held on 7 August and won by Roje Stona from Jamaica who set a new Olympic record with a distance of 70m.

Adrian, who also attended Overberg High School, was scheduled to compete in the men's 4x400m relay on 9 August but fell ill, taking him out of the competition. His team went on to compete in the finals on 10 August, placing fifth and setting a new national record with a time of 2:58.12. USA won the relay, setting a new Olympic record of 2:54.43.

In an emotional post on Facebook, Adrian thanked everyone for their support leading up to his race. "It wasn't meant to be, but l've learnt a lot from this experience," he posted, "It’s really a hard pill to swallow, but there’s only one way for me to go from here and that's up. 'Dreams delayed are not dreams denied'. I’ll be back in 2025."

Congratulations to both Victor and Adrian. 

World Athletics has confirmed that a total of 35 South African athletes will be competing in the Paris Olympics which will run from 26 July to 11 August. Among the 35 is Kleinmond resident Victor Hogan, who will be representing South African in discus throw. 

Victor has competed in five world championships, but this will be his first opportunity at the Olympics. He currently ranks 21st in the World Rankings with a personal best throw of 67.62m. Victor's coach, John Smith, says that he has thrown even further during their practices and is confident that Victor will reach a new personal best at the Olympics. 

Ten schools took part in the Curro Hermanus 6-a-side Soccer Tournament on the weekend of 20 July. The Curro Hermanus U16 boys and U19 girls took the win in their respective age groups, and the U19 boys placed third. On the same day, Curro Hermanus also faced off against Swellendam in hockey, with both the U19 boys and U19 girls winning their games 2 – 1 and 3 – 0 respectively. 

Aidan Brummer, a Grade 8 learner at Curro Hermanus, took part in the Overberg Kickboxing Championship held at Curro Primary School on 20 July. 

He performed extremely well, earning the title of Overberg Champion in Point Fighting, Continuous Fighting, and Kick Light Fighting. He also received his Protea colours for coming in the top 9 in South Africa.

Aidan will compete at the World Kickboxing Championship in Hungary at the end of August. 

We wish him luck and look forward to hearing his results.

Warwick’s Chef School (WCS) in the Hemel-en-Aarde Village hosted their second annual Overberg Aspiring Chef of the Year competition on 4 July.

High school learners from around the Overberg were challenged to enter a ‘Meat-free Monday’ recipe which they submitted to WCS. Of the entries, ten finalists were then selected to create their dish in a cook-off in the WCS kitchen. They were:

• Siseko Mlana from Qhayiya Secondary School 

• Khanya Mkhapheni from Qhayiya Secondary School 

• Danielle Lindes from Curro Hermanus 

• Frank Swingler from Curro Hermanus 

• Rourke Neethling from Curro Hermanus 

• Abbi Romburgh from Curro Hermanus 

• Zoë van der Werf from Overberg High School 

• Ayana-Leigh Clarke from Overberg High School 

• Nina van der Werf from Overberg High School 

• Belinda Vermeulen from Swellendam High School 

Prior to the cook-off, each of the ten finalists was given the chance to select a plate or bowl from the Continental South Africa catalogue to present their dish on. The ingredients for each dish were sponsored by WCS (who also gave the finalists discounts on their professional chef courses).

The dishes were judged by Chef Kevin Warwick (Warwick’s Chef School), Chef Eleanor Coetzee (Creation Wines), Chef Annabell Kapot (Feedem Catering), and Carina van der Merwe (Core Catering Supplies Hermanus), who were all impressed with the skills shown by the finalists.

At the prize giving ceremony, which was hosted at the Municipal Auditorium later that day, each of the finalists received an amazing hamper filled with products from all the competition’s sponsors. Frieda Lloyd, the Overstrand Tourism Manager, was the guest speaker on the evening and she highlighted all the opportunities that the Overberg region holds for young aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts. 

The winners were announced by Chef Kevin Warwick: 

In fourth place, winning a dinner set from Continental’s Rustic Range and knives from Tramontina, was Zoë van der Werf from Overberg High School with her Pumpkin & Spicy Baby Spinach Lasagna. 

Third place was awarded to Abbi Romburgh from Curro Hermanus for her Vegetarian Butter 'Chicken' with Naan Bread & Cucumber Raita. Abbi took home a digital precision thermometer sponsored by Core Catering Hermanus, garlic press sponsored by Core Catering Hermanus, precision batter dispenser sponsored by Core Catering Hermanus, cheese board, Gripline paring knife, luxury napkins, and cookbook by Christine Capendale.

Khanya Mkhapheni from Qhayiya Secondary School placed second with her Polenta Pizza with Home Made Tomato Relish, Spinach Mushrooms & Bocconcini Cheese. She was awarded a dinner set from Continental’s Rustic Range, and Avanti pasta machine sponsored by Core Catering Hermanus, a bread knife and vegetable knife sponsored by Tramontina, a seasoning injector and baker’s spatula sponsored by Core Catering Hermanus, and a cookbook by Christine Capendale.

The title of Overberg Aspiring Chef of the Year 2024 went to Belinda Vermeulen from Swellendam High School who made a mouthwatering Chickpea Lasagne. For her first-place prize, Belinda was awarded a Robot Coupe powermix sponsored by BCE and Core Catering Hermanus, a 12-Piece Grunter knife set sponsored by BCE and Core Catering Hermanus, a dinner set from Continental’s Rustic Range, and a cooking workshop voucher from Christine Capendale.

The Overberg Aspiring Chef of the Year competition by WCS has become a highlight on the school calendar, giving local learners a chance to not only learn, but to also show off their culinary skills. 

Warwick’s Chef School would like to thank the following businesses and individuals for their support and sponsorships: 

• Christine Capendale (cooking workshop and books for the winners)

• Van Blommestein Butchery (gift packs of biltong and droëwors for the hampers)

• WP Packaging (balsamic vinegar for the hampers)

• Mountain Falls (still and sparkling water for the hampers and judges)

• Ina Paarman’s Kitchen (goodies for the hampers including 2 of their new soup ranges)

• Fry’s Family Foods (aprons and recipe booklets for all the finalists)

• Chef Works (smart chef jackets for the judges and head gear for the finalists and hampers)

• Office National (journals and pens for the hampers)

• Elisabeth Hodgson Kitchen (12 items from their kitchen range for the hampers)

• Continental South Africa (dishes for the finalist’s dishes as well as crockery for the winners)

• Tramontina (knives for the winners) 

• Main sponsors Core Catering Franchise and BCE Foodservice Equipment (powermix and knives for the winner) 

• Benguela Cove (Pirate Golf Vouchers)

• Creation Wines (wine tasting at the awards ceremony) 

• Overstrand Municipality (for the use of the auditorium)

• Overberg Aspiring Chef of the Year’s biggest supporter, Core Catering Hermanus (prizes for the winners as well as items for the hampers)

By Kalfiefees

Once again, we would like to welcome you to the 2024 Kalfiefees Hermanus Arts Festival. It is indeed a highlight to present the 24th Kalfiefees from Thursday 1 August to Sunday 11 August 2024! This includes Women’s Day on 9 August.

The 2024 Kalfiefees program is packed with performances by worldclass artists from all over the country. Festivalgoers can, as always, look forward to satisfying many preferences - including drama and comedy, to music, dance, children’s theatre, book discussions, art and lifestyle. 

The Kalfiefees supports various community projects in the Overstrand. In 2024 we look forward to an even bigger involvement. In this manner love for the arts may be nourished and future artists and audiences be developed.

Since 2023 StoryTeam and The Cave Theatre at the Old Harbour-museum in Hermanus have been creating a space for young actors to develop their skills. This year, profits from ticket sales will be used to further improve this creative space and develop more talent. Local schools will be given the opportunity by the Kalfiefees to present their own productions, so that children and students may perform professionally.

This year the school productions Skaakmat and (Oor)Vloed will be presented, with Creative Space Hawston, the Catapult Foundation and Pierre & Pauli Productions, as well as Star Search Overstrand. All proceeds from book presentations will support a project in Zwelihle and Mount Pleasant where volunteers read to children on a weekly basis. A school bag and stationary drive for needy grade 1 learners is also supported, which makes a huge difference at the start of each school year.

Other events to look forward to:

• Book discussions

• Children's theatre

• Visual art

• Lifestyle workshops

• Classic films

• Photography program

• Health and wellness

The name Kalfiefees was created to indicate the time of the year when whales come to Walker Bay to give birth to their calves. Apart from the festival’s varying offer of theatre, music, art and lifestyle, the Overstrand offers an exceptional choice in restaurants and wine farms, as well as activities like walking trails. Who knows, perhaps a whale or two might show off!

Contact

Click here to visit the Kalfiefees Hermanus Arts Festival website

E-mail admin@kalfiefees.co.za 

Phone +27 61 520 9041

The residents and their pets at Paradise Park are in desperate need of assistance from the public. Many people are unable to find new places that they can afford that are also pet friendly, and many residents have been forced to leave their pets behind or surrender them to the Hermanus Animal Welfare Society. 

HAWS has been desperately trying to catch as many of the animals as they can. Fifteen cats were surrendered last week to the already full cattery. These animals are in desperate need of foster homes. If you can foster, please contact Amanda on 028 312 1281.

Financial help is needed to transport 25 to 30 caravans from Paradise Park to Stanford, where a kind-hearted person has offered the residents some land. The caravans are not road worthy and need to be towed at R1 500 per caravan. If you would like to make a donation or assist, please contact Tronel on 082 737 1226 for more information.

Rabies detected in the Cape Fur Seal population has spread from beaches in Blouberg, Strand, Muizenberg, Fish Hoek, Plettenberg Bay to the Overstrand coastline.

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture Veterinary Services confirmed they have found dead seals that tested positive for rabies in Pringle Bay and Pearly Beach. To date there are seven confirmed cases of rabies in Cape Fur Seals since October 2023.

Current public health advisory is that rabies vaccination is not advised in the general public but anyone bitten by a seal must seek immediate medical assistance and get Post Exposure Prophylaxis.

Seals are a normal part of our coastline and one should expect to see seals on the shore line and expect to see seal carcasses on our shoreline. These do not equate to or are as a result of rabies.

Residents are asked to adhere to the following guidelines (which should be adhered to regardless of disease in coastal wildlife):

• Please keep your distance at all times from seals (in the water and on land)

• Do not interfere with, attempt to handle, touch or restrain a seal

•  The public is reminded that it is illegal to harm or interfere with a seal

• Ensure that your dog is under your control at all times and preferably on a lead wherever seals may occur

• Do not touch, handle or consume a seal carcass or any parts thereof

Report any seal incidences or attacks/bites immediately to the Environmental Management Section of Overstrand Municipality on 028 316 3724 (o/h) or Fire & Rescue Emergency Control Room on 028 312 2400 or your nearest vet.

Issued by:

Overstrand Municipal Manager, Dean O’Neill

134 runners and walkers braved the cool weather on Saturday morning to take part in the Hermanus parkrun. Being the 22nd of the month, it was named the “Tutu” parkrun and those taking part were encouraged to dress accordingly. Several of the runners met the brief wearing colourful tutus, with one gentleman wearing two, which he proudly explained were “two-twos”.

Apart from the more serious runners, participants included families and their pets, some running and some enjoying the walk while taking in the beautiful scenery. The ever-friendly marshalls, positioned throughout the route, were all smiles and ready to offer words of encouragement.

The first place male and female finishers were Jonathan Matthew and Alice Venter respectively. They are both juniors and this was their first time participating in the Hermanus parkrun. Darren Wright, one of the volunteers that assists on the track every week, completed his 250th parkrun, with several other runners also meeting milestones like their 100th parkrun.

The first Stanford Penguin Plunge took place in 2011 on the banks of the Klein River at the Stanford River Lodge. It was the initiative of Anton and Tracey Duivestein, who wanted to assist Rotary in raising funds for their soup kitchens, focusing in particular on the elderly.

In 2015, the planning and management of the event was handed over to the Rotary Club of Stanford as it had grown into an event too big for just two people to manage. Anton took on the role of King Neptune – complete with a white wig, a beard and his trusted trident – leading the Penguins into the icy water.

Over the years, the number of penguins has grown tremendously, the highest number being 95. This year saw 81 human penguins and 4 canine penguins taking the plunge. The “chickens” that cheered on the penguins easily matched their number, resulting in plenty of banter, cheering and a wonderful vibe.

Local restaurants provided delicious hot soups and freshly baked bread. A local winery provided a pot of steaming hot Glühwein and hot chocolate was also on offer.

“The entry fee is a donation which makes the event affordable for families, and chickens are requested to make monetary donations should they want any of the refreshments on offer,” says Stanford Rotary Club president, Lana Coates, “All in all, this is an event not to be missed. See you all in 2025!”

Just Dance Academy (JDA) in Hermanus recently competed at the 2024 DanceStar World Dance Masters held in Croatia. They returned with some phenomenal results, ranking in the top 20 in the world!

Results are as follows:

Madicyn Venter

Urban Hip Hop 2nd, Urban Hip Hop Group 8th, Commercial Hip Hop 9th, Urban Duet 10th, Lyrical 11th.

Lillou De Kock

Open section 3rd, Lyrical 4th, Open Group 4th, Open Duet 5th, Urban Group 8th, Urban Hip Hop 9th, Urban Duet 11th.

Zuri Baxter

Urban Group 8th, Urban Hip Hop 13th, Commercial Hip Hop 16th.

Carli Pieterse

Commercial Hip Hop 10th, Commercial Hip Hop 11th.

Jemma Heunis

Open Group 4th, Open Group 5th, Commercial Hip Hop 7th, Urban Group 8th, Open 11th.

Unit Scale

Please take note of the new unit scale for pre-paid electricity tariffs to be implemented as from 1 July 2024:

• 0 - 350 Units = 2.3038 (vat incl) per unit

• 350 Units = R806.33

• 351 - 600 Units = 3.1502 (vat incl) per unit

• 250 Units = R787.55

• 600+ Units = 4.2522 (vat incl) per unit

Indigents now get 70 free units and may buy 430 units per month to remain eligible for the indigent grant.

First 280 Units = R 645.06 and a further 150 Units = R 472.53.

Issued by:

Overstrand Municipal Manager, Dean O’Neill

The TS Birkenhead Sea Cadets, made up by youth from the Overstrand area, have announced an exciting array of achievements made by their cadets last week. 

Four of their cadets have been invited to attend a mid-year course in Knysna which will take place during the school holidays. This course will qualify the cadets in first aid and firefighting, and is also an accredited skipper course.

In the same period, five other cadets will attend a course at TS Woltemade which will include accreditation for marine firefighting and first aid, and the course will also cover sailing, seamanship, ceremonial, leadership, ships husbandry, bosuns call prof, sailing, pulling, mass etiquette, duty watch and flag hoisting. 

To top off these wonderful achievements, it was recently announced that TS Birkenhead CI Robbie Hansen has qualified for the Navy Divers selection. 

For more information on the TS Birkenhead Sea Cadets, follow them on Facebook.

Melkbosstrand was buzzing with excitement from 24 to 26 May as the Acro Solo Dance Sport Championships took centre stage. It was a rigorous competition with three rounds, where dancers had to attain certain scores to move forward.

Among the contenders was Ignite Dance Academy, a newcomer to the Western Cape dance scene, having recently established branches in Hermanus and Somerset West. Under the guidance of head coach Lizelle Hurter, Ignite Dance Academy entered eight dancers into the competition who represented both the Overberg and Cape Town districts. 

These dancers cleared each round with flying colours securing spots to represent the Western Cape at the National Acrobatic Solo Sport Championships in July. This remarkable achievement also earned them provincial colours for acrobatic dance.

Their success didn't stop there. Ignite Dance Academy claimed the titles for the highest-scoring junior dancer (levels 1 – 4, all ages) and the highest-scoring senior dancer (levels 5 – 10, all ages), demonstrating their talent and potential. 

Additionally, their dancers dominated the podium, with Hellen Haering, Lia du Toit, Charlotte Masson, and Adriane du Toit taking first place, Cara Minnaar secured second place, and Mila Scott, Lily van Platen, and Ivanka Kruger achieved third place at the Inter-District Championships.

This victory is a testament to Ignite Dance Academy's commitment to excellence. Having previously produced numerous national champions in Pretoria, their expansion into the Western Cape marks a new chapter filled with promise and potential. As they continue to make waves in the dance community, Ignite Dance Academy's future looks bright and promising.

Lord’s Taverners South Africa recently presented some new rugby balls to the Black Birds Rugby Club in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. In addition, they also gave the club chairman, Jerome Marthinus, a ball signed by ex-Springbok captain Morne du Plessis. 

Jerome said that it would take pride of place when they build their clubhouse at their new grounds in Karwyderskraal. The donation was inspired by Newton Johnson Vineyards. 

By Chairperson Anne Droomer

The OnVerWag AGM took place recently at the NG Church in Onrus. The meeting was very fruitful, with the new committee being elected for the upcoming year. They are Anne Droomer (chairperson), Eddie Holloway, Vanessa Sutherland, Coenie Groenewald, Zahn Du Toit, Jean Orban, and Michiel De Kock (the Treasurer’s post is vacant and OnVerWag is looking for someone who is financially minded and would like to be part of the team).   

Their guest speaker was Bernardus Groenewald from Overberg Wildfire Volunteers. Two ladies from the community are training to be firefighters and will hopefully be ready for the coming summer season. OnVerWag wants to assist them to make their dream come true by raising awareness and donations to cover their Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) which costs R20 000.

SAPS did a presentation on crime trends in our area and the members were introduced to the newly appointed Station Commander of Hermanus Station – Col Tamboer – who has been here 3 weeks, but he knows the Overberg very well.

Onverwag once again thanked and celebrated the work of the OVSRA Eco Patrollers as well as the OM Safety Officers (they are part of the crew appointed to Fernkloof as Safety Officers). We were lucky to have the extra patrollers patrol our Coastal Path. Sadly, their contract terminates end of June. The patrollers cover each day about 12 km on foot and 40 km by bicycle. This year we gave vouchers from I love Onrus Deli to add to their fuel load.

Please see the chairperson’s report below.

• Crime trends continue to show a rather alarming increase in scamming and online fraud incidents. 

• We continued hosting our series of smaller workshops to become Cell Savvy. Opportunities arose allowing OnVerWag to address larger groups such as Seniors of Mount Pleasant, and a workshop hosted for ladies on Women’s Day.  

• The safety of the cliff path is one of our priorities. In line with this, we are monitoring the Southern end of the fence of the Nature Reserve – the exit and entry point for the coastal path. 

• Another area of concern is the heavy pedestrian traffic on the R43. Ensuring safety and security of the neighbourhood in the form of High Viz Foot Patrols over the Festive Season and Public Holidays. Patrols took place mainly during the early hours of the morning or evening as well as later during the night. The focus of the patrols has been the Coastal Path and the immediate area surrounding the Onrus Caravan Park. The OVSRA Eco Patrollers and response vehicle were included in the patrols. 

• OnVerWag once again was able to assist the OVSRA Eco Patrollers with bicycles and boots. Thanks to assistance received from the Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety (POCS) we donated the use of 3 bicycles for the eco-patrollers so as to respond faster to reports received as well as covering a greater area with general patrols. 

• Thank you for the generous donation received from Basson Protective Clothing, we were able to equip each patroller with a set of boots which can endure the distances to be covered each day. The patrollers have a vast area to cover each day be it on foot or bicycle. 

• Breakfast Bay and the dunes are included as part of the safety of the Coastal Path. The area had become overgrown with aliens providing good hiding spots for perpetrators and poachers. Alien clearing will commence in the new financial year with the support of Vermont Conservation Foundation. 

• Towards the middle of the year, unrest surfaced in Zwelihle. It came to our notice that several staff members employed in our community suffered trauma during the unrest. One of our members, a trauma counsellor, came forward and offered pro bono counselling while the NG Kerk made their facilities available to us. To be able to offer trauma counselling services, at no cost to everyone who responded was our contribution to ensuring good Mental Health for everyone. 

• The Overstrand suffered severe storm damage on 23 September resulting in no power or water and all access roads damaged or closed. The impact of the storm affected everyone in the community. Our interactive WhatsApp groups sprang into action keeping members up to date for several weeks on access to power and water, roads open or closed and general progress to normality.  

• Onrus Beach and the coastline was damaged and covered with debris washed down by the Onrus River during the storm. No beach or coastline was visible. Realising that the summer season was on our doorstep, the community sprang into action to start with the Big Clean Up of Onrus Beach known as ORRG – Onrus River Restoration Group.  

• A committee was established consisting of home and business owners, representatives from various organisations operating in our community as well as OM representatives from the various departments. Residents gave of their professional skills to oversee the project. 

• The job seekers standing at the four-way stop were offered an opportunity to assist with the manual clean-up of the beach and rocky coastline. Tswelopela, meaning empowerment and education, was created. While job opportunities were created for 3 months, the job seekers received ongoing education on work ethics. The project came to an end mid-December as funds ran out but several of the job seekers found other forms of employment. It is our hope to create work preparedness with a data base of skills available to be called on when needed by community members. 

• The Western Cape Liquor Board with all the relevant role players, held a workshop in Hermanus. OnVerWag was invited to be part of the workshop as an accredited Neighbourhood Watch with Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety. At the conclusion of the workshop, the Liquor Board committed to be more active in the area. The results have been seen in various communities. OnVerWag has remained part of a Safety and Security Management Team created by the Onrus Vermont Special Ratings Area (OVSRA).  

• Communication is by means of a WhatsApp group and Radio contact with the Control Room. The Protocol Onverwag agreed on with DEFFE (MCS) is to, via a direct, secure 24/7 reporting channel, update all poaching activities as seen and reported by members. They then, where and when possible, assign resources to act on our information.  

• OnVerWag has attended the weekly JOCOM Security meetings held at SAPS, Hermanus.  The Ward Committee of Ward 13 has continued to meet every 6 weeks and bring various issues to the attention of the Ward Councillor. Great input has been given to the IDP needs of the ward. 

• During the year, a water pipeline was replaced but the standard of work often led to water outages which required prompt responses from Onverwag to the municipality. 

• Cloud storage of documents at OnVerWag migrated from Dropbox to Google Drive so as to reduce costs. The bulk of funds raised are through our annual membership fee. 

• The Sage One Accounting package was implemented for invoicing purposes and ease of doing business.  

• Our social media maintained its online presence, especially just after the floods in Septembers. Posts ranged from encouraging members to save water, power saving tips, how to avoid scams and online fraud as well as safety in general. 

• We have learnt to live with power outages and the necessary steps to be taken to communicate with Eskom. Our members need a high five for managing this process so successfully. 

Onverwag is only possible due to the support we receive from our members. Thank you to each one of you. Special thanks to: The NG Gemeente for always allowing us to make use of their facilities; our auditors, Pragma Konsult, who for the second year, have offered their services pro bona; our partners SAPS Hermanus, OVSRA and other accredited Neighbourhood Watches in the Overstrand. 

By Whale Coast Mall

Whale Coast Mall, in collaboration with Apollo Health & Fitness and Proactive Fitness, hosted a Spinathon in aid of the Hermanus Night Shelter (HNS) on Saturday 25 May. 

The event was a massive success with vibrant energy pulsating from the fitness studios and massive support from our community. Each participant paid an entry fee and received a goodie bag with handy items such as water bottles, fans, lip-care, chilling towels, water, energy drinks, and an energy bar.

The Hermanus Round Table members went out in full force to support the cause, managing to secure sponsors at R25 per kilometre. A total of 120 kilometres were clocked, which amounted to an amazing additional R3 000 raised for HNS. A big thank you to Autohaven and Hermanus Supa Quick for their generous sponsorship. 

Whale Coast Mall would like to thank the following service suppliers, partners and sponsors for making the event possible: Keith Aldridge and his entire team from Apollo Health and Fitness Studio; Mathew Browne and his entire team from Proactive Fitness; Clicks for the lip-care provided for each participant; Dieter Lauff and the team from Function Hire for the sound and set-up assistance; Franni Vivier from Azure One for the goody bags and the chilling towels; Food Lovers Market for the energy drink sponsored for each participant; Gigs Cilliers from Surf Zone for his active role in marketing the event; Lariza Bredenkamp from LBB Sport and Karlie Hadingham from Revive Active Recovery Centre for their on-site support; Marinet du Toit and the Dial a Physio team for the water and pens sponsored for the goodie bags; MTN for the water bottles and fans sponsored for the goodie bags; Pierre van Niekerk for the amazing videography and photography on the day; Titanium Creative for the design and marketing material; Vodacom for the water bottles sponsored for the goodie bags; The Village News for covering the event.

A tremendous shout-out also goes to the participants of the event who came to support and raise funds for HNS.

Congratulations to three boys from Hermanus High School who have been selected for the following Boland teams: Gideon Scheepers (Academy Week Boland U18), Joshua Arnoldus (Grant Khomo Boland U16), and Liam Prodehl (Grant Khomo Boland U16).

We wish you the best of luck for the season ahead.

The Cape Winelands Bodyboarding (CWB) team was announced recently, with many of the bodyboarders coming from the Overstrand.

The CWB team will compete at the National South African Championships in Port Alfred from 23 to 28 September 2024.

Pro Division: 

Marc Webster, Luke Staniforth, Teegan Coulonval, Jamie Bischoff and Victor Holloway.

Junior Division: 

Liam Profitt, Pieter Malan, Gaspard Camille, Luca Potgieter, Tony Martins and Henre du Plessis.

Boys Division: 

Thomas Hen and Sebastian Mostert.

Mens Division: 

Roland Jack and Werner Joubeert.

Masters Division: 

Hugo Lambrechts and Pieter Janse van Rensburg.

Ladies Division: 

Lezandre Joubert.

Dropknee Division: 

Liam Profitt.

Grand Masters Division: 

Riaan du Preez.

Development Division: 

Caleb Esterhuizen, Eduart Kleinloog, Leah Esterhuizen and Zian Jansen van Rensburg.

Each team member is responsible for raising their own fund to get to the championships in September. If you would like help by becoming a sponsor or making a donation, please contact CWB chairperson, Jacques, on 074 129 1975 or jkleinloog1@gmail.com. For more information and updates follow Cape Winelands Bodyboarding on Facebook

Romantiques recently hosted their second Murder Mystery where guests were required to solve the fictional murder of Baroness van Munchen. The theme for the evening was ‘Romantiques Abbey’ and participants came dressed to suit the part.

On arrival, guests were welcomed with a variety of canapés and wine, and given an opportunity to meet and mingle with each other before Romantiques owner, James Ludick (looking dashing in his top hat and tails), called everyone into the theatre to provide the dialogue for the murder.

James gave each guest an envelope containing information about their respective characters, including statements to be made and other characters to talk to. Each guest was also privately assigned their own objective within the game and this resulted in much bribing, double-crossing and fits of laughter.

While some guests were initially a little reserved about getting into character, it wasn’t long before the rooms at Romantiques were occupied with people engaged in secret conversations. They exchanged information, clues, and suspicions as they attempted to uncover the identity of the murderer. 

At the end of the evening, guests were separated into teams and had to write down their opinion as to who the murderer was. Teams also voted for 'Best Dressed Character’ and ‘Best Actor’.

Whether you are 18 or 80, the murder mystery party is a fun and entertaining way to spend a winter’s evening and should definitely be added to your bucket list. Jol Emporium has a fantastic selection of outfits to rent for any dress-up occasion. Visit them at 1 Long Street, Hermanus.

For more information or to book for the next murder mystery contact James on 079 682 2887.

By Creation Wines

Andy Howard was one of 42 Masters of Wine (MWs) who visited us in the Hemel-en-Aarde late last year, and he was so inspired that he wrote an article for the March 2024 issue of Decanter magazine, entitled ‘Hemel-en-Aarde: A Chardonnay Paradise’.

‘In just a few decades, this arrestingly beautiful part of South Africa’s south has risen to join the elite of regions reputed as top-quality sources of the world’s best-loved white grape,’ he wrote. ‘Not only are they compelling in their citrus freshness and minerality, the Chardonnays of the Hemel-en-Aarde deliver those extra details that make them stand apart, such as power, intensity, ageability, fragrance, refined oak and salinity.’

Howard awarded a 95-point rating for our Creation the Art of Chardonnay 2022, describing it as ‘pristine, with a very cool feel on the palate. Chassagne-like, showing hints of smokiness, vibrant acidity and a powerful saline character that add up to a complex, pithy, concentrated wine that will age beautifully. Sourced from a single vineyard at 264m, a combination of five clones from three different rootstocks; hand harvested, 50% spontaneous fermentation with 70% second-fill and 30% new-fill oak, 10 months on lees.’

This is the wine we invite you to enjoy this International Chardonnay Day, Thursday 23 May 2024. Only 3,920 bottles were produced in 2022, each individually numbered and retailing for R970 ex-cellar.

In his Decanter article, Howard touched on some of the features unique to the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge, the ward where Creation is situated, right at the top of the valley, on the slopes of Babylonstoren Mountain, with seams of 550-million-year-old quartz sparkling through 450-million-year-old decomposed Bokkeveld shale. Our vineyard elevation ranges from 240 to 398m above sea level, which is significant because the average ambient temperature drops by 0.6°C for every 100m ascended. 

What’s more, throughout the growing season, there’s a thermal vortex of mist that rises up from the Atlantic Ocean, 7.5km away, moving along the Ridge and up the mountain to create a giant fan of whirling clouds. This contributes to a cool average temperature, with a night index that is 12°C lower than at midday, delaying ripening by up to two weeks compared to nearby areas.

‘It’s absolutely ideal for an early-budding variety like Chardonnay, locking in the quality and enabling us to produce wines of great elegance and finesse,’ says Creation cellarmaster Jean-Claude Martin.

‘It’s difficult to disagree,’ wrote Howard in his Decanter article, and he wasn’t the only MW convinced after their visit. ‘I hadn’t realised the impact of the wind,’ said Mary Gorman-McAdams, a New York-based wine consultant, judge, educator, speaker, and business strategist. ‘You can also see the cloud cover in the morning, and feel the temperature drop. It’s not just talk; it’s real. You kind of wonder why these wines are not more recognised for the quality that you taste in them and actually see in the vineyard.’

‘This truly is heaven on earth,’ agreed Ireland’s first female MW, Jane Boyce, whose 40-year wine career has included buying and selling wine, training restaurant staff, compiling wine lists and writing about wine. ‘Surrounded by the beauty of nature here, you can see how healthy the vineyards are. This is like an unpainted canvas. How wonderful to be able to take nature at its best and paint your picture on it.’ Watch the full video clip below or click here.

Appropriate words, indeed, for Creation, where we use science to understand nature better – and then turn it into art, as epitomised by our Creation Art of Chardonnay.

Click here to see Masters of Wine, Mary Gorman MacAdams & Jane Boyce, share their experience at Creation and the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.

A historic solar storm hit the Earth on Friday 10 May, continuing into Saturday. The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) issued several G4 warnings and, for the first time since 2003, one G5 warning. The Geomagnetic Storm Scale indicates the severity of geomagnetic storms, with 1 being a minor event, and 5 being an extreme event. A geomagnetic storm occurs when charged particles from the Sun, caused by a coronal mass ejection, interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. 

The impact of such a storm is mostly on technological systems and is also the origin of the northern and southern lights (Aurora Australis). Reports of Southern Light sightings were reported from Gansbaai in the Western Cape and Namibia amongst others. For more information visit www.sansa.org.za. 

Legacy Martial Arts Academy (LMAA) took part in the South African Kickboxing Championships held in Potchefstroom from 25 to 29 April. Their athletes displayed remarkable skill and dedication, earning accolades and securing positions on the national team for the upcoming championships. 

Lyle Asary, Anushca Thorne, Dylan Isaacs, Aiden Brummer, Namika Pieterse, Layla Brand, Qvaro Van Der Westhuizen, Zius Brand, and Shihan Ruehan have all qualified to represent South Africa at the World Championships in Budapest from 26 August to 1 September 2024, and at the African Championships in Benoni from 9-12 December 2024. Chelene Kreusch has also qualified to represent South Africa at the World University Cup in Italy in 2025.

To fundraise for the World Championships, LMAA will be selling patches to businesses at R2 000 each, that will be sewn onto bomber jackets which the athletes will wear to Budapest. For more information contact Shihan Ruehan van Romburgh on 078 621 4054 or senseiruehan@gmail.com. Visit the Legacy Martial Arts Academy on Facebook for more results and updates.

"Stitches with Love" is a local project by Free2Care which aims to provide handmade woollen items to the homeless in the Overberg. 

The team is currently knitting and crocheting beanies, scarves, and gloves for distribution at the Hermanus Night Shelter. The project commenced on 15 April and will conclude on 30 June. They hope to create at least 35 to 50 items of each category by the end of the project. To date, they have completed 21 beanies and 16 scarves. The finished items will be delivered to the shelter on 1 July.

Free2Care has established donation drop-off points and have been actively seeking contributions online, however the increasing number of homeless individuals in the Overberg region, especially during the colder months, necessitates further support. They are asking the community to donate yarn – new or left over from finished knitting projects. These can be dropped off at any of the below drop-off sites: 

- Hermanus Night Shelter 

- Mad Foods Hermanus 

- Mad Foods Kleinmond 

- Residential address in Botriver (WhatsApp 061 013 2875 for more details)

Alternatively, please consider donating R30 (or more), which covers the cost for a ball of wool. WhatsApp Free2Care on 061 013 2875 to find out more.

Nearly 500 athletes arrived in the Overstrand to take part in the Prescient Race2Hermanus Triathlon on Saturday 11 May. The prestigious event offered a variety of options for different skill levels: Ultra (2 km swim, 82 km cycle, 21 km run), Standard (1.5 km swim, 43 km cycle, 11 km run), Aquabike (2 km swim, 77 km cycle), and Sprint (750m swim, 23 km cycle, 5 km run).

The race started at the Hermanus New Harbour where the first wave of swimmers took off at 07:30. From there it was onto the bikes along a scenic cycling route which took them onto the R43 towards Stanford before the cyclists’ looped back to Hermanus New Harbour and set off on foot along the cliff path for the final leg of the race.

Visit Race2Hermanus Triathlon on Facebook for more photos and results.

The annual Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies (L2L) Awards Evening took place on Thursday 25 April in a nautical-themed setting at the Hermanus Golf Club.

The evening was attended by just over 100 walkers, sponsors, and friends of L2L were invited to celebrate 21 walks over 19 years with the L2L committee, as well as to witness the handover of the funds raised to Overstrand Hospice (main beneficiary for 2024), and Kleinmond Animal Welfare and Huis Lettie Theron (the two secondary beneficiaries). 

From the 6 practice walks and 34 Wednesday walks, L2L was able to hand over R30 021 to each of the secondary beneficiaries, with Overstrand Hospice receiving an incredible R1 204 021 – the highest amount L2L has ever fundraised for a single charity. The top fundraiser was Carol-Ann Connel who raised more than R50 000.

During the evening it was announced that L2L committee members Roeleen Wessels and Michele Serfontein (chairperson) would be stepping down, leaving some very big shoes to be filled (the new L2L committee and chairperson will be announced after their AGM later this year). 

Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies would like to thank each and every one of their sponsors and supporters, without whom each year’s walks would not be possible, as well as the individuals and businesses who donated towards this wonderful cause.

Overstrand Hospice will be using the funds to continue the renovations on their newly purchased offices in Hermanus next to their second hand shop in Aberdeen Street. The premises will act as a storage space for any overspill from the shop, as well as a clinic for hospice patients. 

The Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies have done it again! 

This amazing group of women have raised a staggering R1 204 012 for the Overstrand Hospice. This is the most that they have ever raised for a single charity in their 21 annual walks.

Keep an eye on our Facebook page and website for the full story in the coming days. 

Hermanus High School (HHS) faced off against Strand High School (SHS) in an intense sports day on 20 April. 

The day started at 07:30 with the U19B girls hockey, who beat SHS 3 – 0. The first team hockey girls were next, followed by the first team boys. Both teams played brilliantly, showing their skill on the AstroTurf and winning their games.

The netball girls also had a phenomenal day with most of the teams winning their matches. The netball games concluded with the first team match where Hermies dominated the court, beating SHS by 29 points.

The final game of the day was the first team rugby boys match – a game that was one for the books. SHS were strong throughout the first half but in the second half HHS came back in fine form, dominating the field and possession.

Tries came in quick succession but HHS struggled with conversions and steadily SHS fought their way back until, in the dying minutes of the game, SHS secured the win with a one point lead. 

The clearly emotional HHS rugby team (see the front page photo) made their way to the front of the stands where the student supporters sat. There they thanked SHS for the excellent game before, with their heads held high, they sang the school song with their fellow learners.

Final A-team results (HHS vs SHS)

Hockey 

U19 Boys: 3 – 0, U19 Girls: 1 – 0, U16 Boys: 1 – 1 , U16 Girls: 0 – 1, U14 Boys: 3 – 1, U14 Girls: 1 – 0

Netball

U18: 44 – 15, U16: 26 – 14, U15: 9 – 30, U14: 17 – 16

Rugby

U19: 30 – 31, U16: 19 – 17, U15: 7 – 31, U14: 7 – 50

Please visit Hermanus High School’s Facebook page to see all the results .

The Mount Pleasant Saints Soup Kitchen & Community Outreach (MPSSK) is a registered NPO which serves warm, cooked meals, food hampers, second-hand clothing and blankets to needy people within the community of Mount Pleasant, Zwelihle, and to anyone referred to their soup kitchen. 

MPSSK would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Hermanus Redcross, Postnet Hermanus, Postnet Sandbaai, Robyn Diederichs, Free to Care, and Roniel Sherie Weber, as well as to every single person who donated. 

Thanks to the Overstrand community’s generosity, MPSSK was able to feed almost 200 people daily at their soup kitchen last week.

If you would like to make a donation, please contact Maria on 073 465 8961.

Grootbos together with the Grootbos Foundation have been awarded Gold in the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards. 

The award is in recognition of the exceptional work done in employing and upskilling local communities. 

For over 20 years Grootbos and the Grootbos Foundation have been upskilling and empowering people in our neighbouring communities through the Green Futures College, Enterprise Development programmes and Sports Development initiatives.

On 13 April, Hawston RFC and Kleinmond RFC faced off in an intense day of battle at the Kleinmond Sports Ground where a large crowd of supporters filled the grounds. Hawston came out on top in the C-Team match with a final score of 29 – 17.  Kleinmond demonstrated their strength in the B-Team match, winning with a commanding score of 21 – 6. The highlight of the day was the A-Team's battle which showcased impressive, skilled and passionate play. Hawston walked away victorius with a final score of 18 – 10.

On 20 April, Hawston will face off against Caledon RFC at home. The first game kicks off at 13:30. Tickets will be available at Quest Garage in Hawston from 17 April. 

Stefan Botha from Hermanus High has been excelling in the school’s photography club this year. 

In January this Hermie photographer entered the monthly Photographic Society of South Africa (PSSA) Youth Division competition where he received six awards for his image ‘Honey’: Best Junior, PSSA Monthly Category Winner, Monthly Overall Winner, Best Scholar, Certificate of Merit, and Best One Star Photographer. 

Most recently Stefan participated in the German International Photocup 2024 as one of 92 students from fifteen schools / clubs across South Africa (entering as The PSSA Youth Photographers of South Africa).

A total of 51 students received 165 acceptances which included several awards, and Stefan is one of them with his photo above of beloved, local elephant seal, Buffel. The image got 4 acceptances and also received a Certificate of Merit (over 90%) in the monthly PSSA Youth Division competition. 

Creative Notions Bernina Overberg was excited to announce that they have been selected as the Bernina Dealer of the Year at a celebratory event at their shop in Hemel-en-Aarde Village on Friday 5 April.

Creative Notions established themselves in Hermanus in 2017, however the shop has been in business for well over 12 years, having started in Pretoria in 2010. In October 2020, they became a Bernina dealer for the Overberg.

The event was attended by several of their loyal clients as well as Ivan Stevens (Dealer Manager of Bernina South Africa), who handed over the trophy to owners Louis and Mireille Pretorius (second and third from left). 

After receiving the award, Louis thanked their clients and the community for their ongoing support and announced the winners of a lucky draw which included special prizes such as gift vouchers and a sewing machine. Finally, he thanked the Creative Notions staff for their commitment and hard work.

The Hermanus Duplicate Bridge Club hosted their annual International Bridge Tournament at the Hermanus Municipal Auditorium hall from 6 – 7 April.  

The tournament, sponsored by Personal Trust, saw 96 bridge players taking part from South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. 

The winners at the end of the weekend were Overberg residents Ian Holdsworth from Hermanus and Sue Botha from Stanford. 

Second place went to Omphemetse Moedi and Dinier Minwalla from Botswana, with third place going to Cape Town residents Imtiaz Kaprey and Jill Rabie.

Congratulations to all the local participants on their fantastic results.

Just Care held their annual Golf Day on Friday 5 April at the Hermanus Golf Club. The players took to the course at 11:30 and ended off the day with a dinner and auction in the clubhouse.  

“It was a fun-filled day and the weather played along,” says Marlinda Wright, member of the Just Care team, “We had great sponsors and wonderful support from players, donors, caterers, volunteers, Hermanus Golf Club, and our team. We are still counting the money raised from the event.  

“Just Care is so full of gratitude to everybody involved in our big day and the ongoing support from the community of Hermanus.”

The winners of the golf day were Wayne Taylor, Fergus Macloed, Philip Clemens, and Ian Wilson.

Twelve years ago, Nowan Cornelius (15), a Stanford resident, attended a rugby practice at Hermanus High School (HHS). Despite being relatively new at the school, he was already part of the U16A team, playing as a flyhalf. Tragically, during the practice, Nowan collided with a teammate's knee, suffering a major blow to the head. 

On the bus drive back to Stanford after the practice, Nowan's cousin noticed that his behaviour was unusual. He phoned their grandfather who collected them from the bus stop and took Nowan to the doctor. Just over 24 hours later, young Nowan passed away. 

At his family home in Stanford, Nowan’s number 10 rugby jersey takes pride of place, hanging in a glass display cabinet along with his rugby shorts – signed by all of his teammates.

From a young age Nowan had been actively involved in sports and had big plans for a career in rugby. He attended Emil Weder High School in Genadendal but decided that the best pathway to achieving his dreams would be through HHS. He hoped to play for the Springboks one day, and also wanted to study to become a doctor. 

In early 2012, Nowan asked his mother Natasha if he could transfer to HHS. She was reluctant as she had already paid the fees at Emil Weder upfront for the year, but Nowan was determined and knew that his grandfather, Peter, would find a way. Nowan and Peter had shared a special bond since the time that Nowan was born which continued to strengthen with their mutual passion for sport and rugby in particular, with Peter having played for the Universals Rugby Club in Stanford.

Peter didn't hesitate and immediately went to register Nowan at HHS, and Nowan transferred to the school in the middle of the first term, a mere few months before the tragedy. 

The Cornelius family describe Nowan as a deeply caring boy with a profound sense of responsibility. He was a happy child with a real love for life and was also very spiritual.

Nowan had a natural talent for music and played the marimbas and keyboard, and apart from rugby, he also played cricket. He would often play sports with younger children in the neighbourhood and this kindness and helpfulness endeared Nowan to the whole community. 

"Hy het baie liefde te gee", says Natasha. 

In 2010, Nowan almost lost his leg after an injury he sustained in a motorbike accident became infected. He spent four weeks recovering in hospital but this did little to deter him from getting back on a motorbike, or from getting back to playing rugby as quickly as he could. His sense of adventure and determination were just too great.

Nowan's family also hint at a certain amount of good-natured mischievousness and say that Nowan could be a bit of a prankster. They smile broadly as they recount stories about neighbours and snakes, and Nowan's love for peanut butter and jam sandwiches. 

One year after his passing, HHS started its annual 'Nowan Cornelius Sports Festival' in honour of Nowan, and to raise funds for regular renovation of the school's essential medical services. Any remaining funds are used to financially support sports learners. This year it was held from 20 – 23 March and featured a netball clinic and rugby games with 12 schools attending. 

The sports festival has been held annually for 11 years with the exception of 2018 (owing to the unrest in Hermanus), and 2020 (owing to Covid), and a moment of silence is held at 11am to remember Nowan.

Nowan's grandfather has been in attendance at the festival, watching the rugby, every year. 

Visit HHS Facebook page to see the results of the tournament. 

The annual Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies (L2L) Walk took place from 14 to 17 March.

Approximately 100 ladies walked 100km over four days to raise funds for their main beneficiary for 2024, Overstrand Hospice, and their two secondary beneficiaries, Huis Lettie Theron and Kleinmond Animal Welfare Society.

On the final day of the walk, the ladies made their way to Danger Point Lighthouse in Gansbaai before being bussed to Grotto Beach in Hermanus where family, friends, and supporters of L2L were waiting to welcome them back. 

The total funds raised will be announced at an awards evening later this year.

On Saturday 16 March, learners from Curro Hermanus took part in the Overberg Schools Chess closed tournament at Swartberg Secondary School in Caledon. 

Twenty-six of their learners received their Overberg Chess colours and will be taking part in the Western Cape Schools Chess Tournament in Langebaan on 4 and 5 May. 

Curro Hermanus would like to wish the learners all the best and congratulate them on their outstanding results!

This weekend, Hermanus High School's (HHS) winter sports teams competed in their last games before the holidays. It was once again a beautiful day with shining talent and great sportsmanship.

HHS played home games against Hermanus Primary School Hawston Secondary and Parel Vallei, and away games against Hoërskool Dirkie Uys, Curro Hermanus and Parel Gymnasium.

The results of the tournament are available on HHS' Facebook page.

Hermanus High School thank their sponsors:

Food Lover's Market

Rola Ford Hermanus

Rola VW Hermanus

Ocean Creek Spur - Whale Coast Mall - Hermanus

Kia Hermanus

Hermanus Toyota

Land en See

CMC - Critical Medical Care

Hermanus Pharmacy 

Alex Grant Pharmacy

To see more photos visit our Facebook page. 

The popular running organisation, parkrun, turns 20 this year with people across the globe walking, jogging, and running 5 km routes every Saturday morning. The first event took place on 2 October 2004 in Teddington in the UK, with 13 adventurous parkrunners, and nearly two years later, parkrun spread to a second venue in Wimbledon. 

As the number of venues increased, the registration and barcode result system was born, allowing hundreds of thousands of parkrunners to be processed each week. The parkrun community continues to grow but is still based on the simple principles formed by the founders from the start: weekly, free, for everyone, forever.

On 16 March, a new parkrun will be starting in the Overstrand at the beautiful Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate on the R43 just outside Hermanus. The run starts at 8am, and apart from parkrunners, spectators are welcome to attend and enjoy themselves amidst breathtaking vineyards and views over the Bot River Lagoon. There are also parkruns in Caledon, Betty’s Bay, Gansbaai and Hermanus.

These weekly parkruns are community driven, run by volunteers, and have huge benefits for participants: running and walking are both great for mental health (especially in nature), strengthen bones and muscles, reduce the risk for obesity, boost heart and lung health, and more.

Parkrun is free to join but it is important to register prior to attending. Click here for more information. 

Marina’s Dance Education Centre celebrated its dancers’ excellent results achieved at the International Dance Exams on Friday 8 March at their AGM and Awards Ceremony. 

The results took almost four months to be announced and all the dancers, who waited patiently to see if their hard work paid off, received medals and certificates for their Merit, High Merit, and Distinction achievements. 

The centre, owned by Marina Rautenbach, teaches several different dance styles including ballet, hip hop, modern, tap, jazz and contemporary. She also offers adult ballet, ballroom and Latin dancing on Mondays from 17:00 – 20:00. For more information contact Marina on 083 721 6994.

The Absolute Pets team at Whale Coast Mall hosted a successful adoption day with Hermanus Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) last weekend. The aim was to educate the surrounding communities on the adoption process of animals in rescue organisations, and to also get our furry friends into loving homes.

Absolute Pets pledged to double-up on the food donations made by their customers on the day and managed to raise a record-breaking total of 612 kilograms. Executive Mayor of the Overstrand Dr Annelie Rabie also showed her tremendous support towards HAWS, donating 50 kilograms to the initiative. These donations will be of great assistance with the winter period ahead.

A big thank you to the Absolute Pets team who joined us for the morning, and to Rinaldi Meyer (General Manager at Hermanus Animal Welfare), Dr Annelie Rabie, every volunteer from the HAWS family, and each member of the public who donated so generously to this cause. It is heartwarming to see communities rally to support our animals, which really deserve the best care that we can provide.

For more information on adoptions at HAWS, please contact them on 028 312 1281 or adoptions@hermanusanimalwelfare.co.za 

Hermanus High School hosted an inter-schools swimming gala against friendly rivals Worcester Gymnasium (WG) on Monday 11 March at Hawston Swimming Pool.

The swimmers competed in freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, medley, and relay to earn points for their respective schools. In a close finish, WG were the winners of the day. 

Earlier this year, Hermanus High also faced off against WG in golf and cricket, winning both. 

The winter inter-schools (netball, hockey and rugby) will take place in an exciting finale in August.

Visit our Facebook page to see more photos.

The 2024 annual Overberg Challenge, (OC) which had an impressive R100 000 prize pool, was held at the Caledon Sports Grounds on 24 February. The tournament saw the stands and grounds packed with over 6 000 spectators who had come to support their respective teams. Springbok assistant coach Deon Davids was this year's special guest, and said that he was impressed with the local rugby talent. 

The rugby teams consisted of the top four in the Overberg – Caledon RFC, Hawston RFC, Bredasdorp Rangers RFC, and Safcol RFC (Grabouw), as well as two invitational teams – Kleinmond RFC and Riviersonderend RFC.

The gates opened for fans at 09:30 with the welcoming ceremony taking place at 10:30 after which the first match of the day got underway. Home team Caledon faced off against Hawston in an intense and exciting game. Caledon established a good lead but Hawston brought the heat, steadily closing the gap in the second half. Despite some excellent attacking from Hawston, Caledon managed to secure a win of 23 – 19 and advanced to the finals, with Hawston into the third place playoffs.

The second game of the day saw Safcol, the defending OC title winners and reigning Boland champions, take on Bredasdorp. Safcol managed to dominate the game and won with a final score of 37 – 12.

The invitational teams, Kleinmond and Riviersondered, impressed with their performances, with Riviersonderend winning the game. 

An intense battle between Hawston and Bredasdorp followed in the third place playoffs, and Hawston lived up to expectations. A passionate and determined Bredasdorp team put Hawston through their paces but Hawston were stronger and ultimately emerged victorious with a win of 36 – 28, securing them third place in the tournament.

The much-anticipated final between Safcol and Caledon did not disappoint. The home team, cheered on by their supporters, gave their all but the reigning champions were determined in defending their title, and their skill and strength saw them win the game 26 – 15, making them this year’s tournament winners, and earning them the first place prize of R40 000 and a Smart TV.

The Overberg Challenge was started in 2023 by Pastor Rodney J Nissen – the Director of Nissen Holdings, who noticed a need for communities to come together, and had a vision to promote and showcase local talent. 

"Nissen Holdings is happy to bring the people of the Overberg to Caledon to showcase our local players and invest in our rugby clubs," he said, “The people of the Overberg came to watch good rugby, made new friends, and enjoyed what Caledon had to offer." 

Nissen Holdings currently employs 22 young people and has a YouTube channel, NH Sports TV. To find out more about the Overberg Challenge follow Nissen Holdings on Facebook or search the hashtag #OC2024. 

The 172nd commemoration of the sinking of the HMS Birkenhead took place on Monday to remember those who lost their lives on 26 February 1852. The day began with a boat trip by Marine Dynamics to the site of the rock which caused the wreck, and was followed by a service at Danger Point Lighthouse, organised by Glenda Kitley of Gansbaai Tourism. It was attended by descendents of the HMS Birkenhead survivors, special guests and interested residents.

The HMS Birkenhead, a paddle steamer, left Portsmouth, England in January 1852, travelling to Ireland before setting sail for Cape Town. She carried nearly 640 men, women and children. The ship's captain, Robert Salmond, was tasked with taking troops to fight in the Frontier War. 

Having been instructed to make every effort to get the troops there swiftly, Captain Salmond followed the South African coastline tightly, steering the ship just three miles (4.8 km) from shore. 

In the early hours of 26 February 1852, with most of her crew, soldiers, and passengers asleep, the HMS Birkenhead struck an unseen reef off a point now called ‘Danger Point’ near Gansbaai, which immediately penetrated her hull. Water flooded in and hundreds of soldiers drowned in their sleeping quarters. 

The surviving men made their way to the deck where the captain instructed them to lower the lifeboats, but due to lack of proper maintenance, much of the lowering equipment would not work. Two cutters and a gig were launched and the 7 women and 13 children on board were given preference and rowed to safety. This act established the naval tradition of 'women and children first', also referred to as the Birkenhead Drill.

The order was given to cut free the horses that were on board, and to push them into the sea in the hopes that they would make it to shore. It was then that the soldiers were told to abandon ship and swim for the boats. Lieutenant-Colonel Seton quickly realised the danger that a rush of men would pose to the women and children on the boats, and so commanded his men to stand fast. 

The ship split in two and just 25 minutes after striking the rocks, she sank beneath the waves. Only her topmast, where 50 men hung on, fighting for their lives, was still visible above the water. 

The sea was scattered with soldiers, desperate for anything to cling on to. Many drowned while trying to make it to shore while others were taken by sharks. The next morning the Lioness, a schooner, reached the lifeboats and rescued those on board before making her way to the site of the wreck to rescue the remaining survivors. Only 193 were saved. 

A letter written by survivor, Ensign G.A. Lucas to his father, recounts the wrecking of the Birkenhead:

"Many pieces of timber passed us as our boat slowly drifted, men on them, as some got done up and let go their hold and went down. The most painful sight was two men swimming side by side. For a long time they struck out well together, after a time one got tired, the other helping him along, it was no use. At last his comrade left and swam towards the land but returned again to his friend but it was of no avail, he went down exhausted, his friend then swam towards the shore. Poor fellow, he had expended his little remaining strength in helping his companion and went down." 

To read the complete letter click here 

Source: Historic UK 

Several schools from across the Overberg took part in the South Boland Athletics on 17 February at Bredasdorp High School. The top athletes from each track and field event have been selected to compete in the Boland Athletics which will take place at the Dal Josaphat Stadium on 2 March. The following learners from the Overstrand have been selected: 

Curro Hermanus

Dylan Schroder, Aiden Brummer, Elmar van der Westhuizen, Wayne Delport, Caitlyn Manchest, Alexa Collins, Tjitra Brandsma, Mea Grobler, Princess Nwonkwo, Eli-Patrice Tobias-Meintjies, Nona Froneman, and Simone le Roux.

Generation Schools Hermanus

Kym Zimano, Emma Privett, and Stella Meintjies.

Hawston Secondary

Que Miguel Martin, Romi Kennedy, and CJ Plaatjies.

Hermanus High School

Yaché Calitz, Werner Kuchar, Dyllan October, Helen Ackermann, Gitte von Wielligh, Lea Boshoff, Kayla Smith, Rayneesha Hopley, Charlotte Kilpin, Albertus van Zyl, Siyolise Mcothama, Johan van der Walt, Stefan Stieger, Anonio Booysen, Alex Paterson, Janine van der Merwe, Olivia Fogwell, Obinna Enenchukwu, Tylo Stevens, Heike Keulder, Anke Kok, Mari Ackermann, and William Roberts.

Gansbaai Academia

Zimvo Tawuse, JayRee Wilschut, Namhla Silolo, Coren Hess, Zayde Tayob, and Jody Dreyer.

"... They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: 

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them..." 

– Laurence Binyon

On 18 February, a commemoration ceremony was held to honour those who lost their lives in the tragic naval accident which occurred on 18 February 1982 shortly before 4am when the South African Navy frigate President Kruger sank after colliding with its supply vessel, the SAS Tafelberg, during a submarine defence exercise. 

The memorial was held at the Cenotaph at the Hermanus Old Harbour and was attended by survivors, families, members of the military, and others paying their respects, and included recollections of that fateful day. Survivors recounted six metre swells and harrowing winds, and being plunged into darkness. 

Despite the Captain's efforts, the ship sank within 40 minutes, leaving its crew on lifeboats, and scattered in the sea. Owing to the lack of visibility, rescuers could not begin the task of saving the crew until light broke that morning. 

Of the men on board, 16 lost their lives:

• Chief Petty Officer Johannes Petrus Booysen

• Chief Petty Officer Hartmut Wilfried Smit

• Chief Petty Officer Willem Marthinus Gerhardus Van Tonder

• Chief Petty Officer Donald Webb

• Petty Officer Stephanus Petrus Bothma

• Petty Officer Graham Alexander Frank Brind

• Petty Officer Robin Centlivre Bulterman

• Petty Officer Granville Williams De Villiers

• Petty Officer Evert Koen

• Petty Officer Hjalmar Lotter

• Petty Officer Roy Anthony McMaster

• Petty Officer Roy Frederick Skeates

• Petty Officer William Russel Smith

• Petty Officer Michael Richard Bruce Whiteley

• Petty Officer Coenraad Johannes Wium

To read more about this tragic event click here

The Hermanus First Fridays Artwalk (HFFA) took place on 3 November with galleries in the Hermanus CBD staying open until 8pm to welcome art lovers to their galleries.

There were many different artworks to be explored and enjoyed as gallery owners and curators had changed some of the pieces since the previous artwalk on 6 October. 

Also fresh on the HFFA scene was a new gallery in The Courtyard by local artist Louisa Kruger. Born and raised in the Overberg, Louisa is a self-taught, recognised and applauded contemporary expressionist with a passion for creativity.

“It was so wonderful to see so many art lovers enjoying our First Fridays Artwalk,” says the HFFA committee, “What a fantastic atmosphere which we all enjoyed!”

Be sure not to miss out on next month’s particularly special artwalk, the ‘Night of 1000 Drawings’, on 1 December in aid of local charities.

Eight fledglings and two adult African penguins who have been under care were released at Stony Point Penguin Colony in Betty's Bay during the annual Penguin Palooza held by SANCCOB and CapeNature in collaboration with SANBI and WWF on Saturday.

The event was opened by the CEOs of CapeNature and SANCCOB saves seabirds, Dr Razeena Omar and Natalie Maskell, as well as ward councillor for Betty's Bay, Theresa Els.

Adopt A Penguin

‘Adopt’ and name a wild penguin or choose one of the home pen birds which live permanently at SANCCOB as they are unable to survive in the wild. A great gift for an environmentally-conscious friend, or for yourself. 

Source: SANCCOB

For information about 'adopting' a penguin please click on this link

Creation Wines hosted a unique tasting experience at The Wine Glass Hermanus last week titled “Chapters of Taste”. 

The tasting led by Louis Fourie (VIP Service Manager at Creation Wines) was the first in a series of masterclasses hosted by Creation at The Wine Glass, and participants were taken on a sensorial journey, experiencing both the depth of taste and perception of flavour with the vineyard’s award-winning wines. The first tasting was of Creation’s Sauvignon Blanc.

Louis explained how the sense of smell can be used to enhance the flavour of the wine by asking guests to smell fresh granadilla before taking a sip of their Sauvignon Blanc, which has aromas of elderflower, papaya, cassis, passion fruit and kumquat. The passion fruit seemed to come through more strongly after smelling the granadilla.

He also showed how sound can affect taste by asking guests to put their ear to a sea shell while sipping the Sauvignon Blanc, and to imagine the beach, the sea, and the salt. Immediately different flavours were brought out in the wine. 

After the Sauvignon Blanc, the guests moved on to Creation’s Chardonnay, featuring “layers of sun-kissed pear and peach, enhanced by fresh minerality and hints of spice”. To illustrate the importance of food pairing, Louis heated slices of lime, which again completely changed the taste of the wine. He also explained how the temperature, alcohol level and even the shape of the wine glass can alter how each wine tastes.

The Creation Pinot Noir was next, and for this wine Louis focused on the sense of smell. Each guest was given three different scents to smell (ginger, violet and vetiver) and was asked to smell each scent individually and then together, while tasting the Pinot. 

Lastly, Louis used the smell of singed wood, cocoa-coated coffee beans and spices with juniper – as well as the taste of liquorice-flavoured dark chocolate – to introduce the Creation Syrah Grenache, which has “intense flavours of ripe plum, black pepper, tapenade, and umami”. 

Each smell, taste, and sound altered how the wines tasted, creating a different experience of the same wine with each sip. The masterclass was truly enlightening, and guests were able to enjoy Creation’s same outstanding wines in a new way.

Only a limited number of guests can be accommodated per masterclass. For more information on the next class and to book contact Joy on 063 789 2775 or reservations@creationwines.com.

Hermanus High’s annual Gentlemen’s Evening took place on 13 October in the hall. Organised by the Fab Mom’s of the PTA, the event is one of the fundraisers for the school.

170 men bought tickets and were treated to an evening of excellent food and conversations with guest speakers Stormers captain John Dobson, ex-Springbok Schalk Brits, ex-Springbok captain Corné Krige and previous Hermanus High teacher and emcee Niel du Toit.

The chef for the evening, Tullishe Le Roux from The Restaurant at Newton Johnson, and her team made mouthwatering steaks with roast potatoes and vegetables; while Hermanus Brewing Company and Cruxland Gin provided each guest with a welcome drink. 

Hermanus High would like to thank all the attendees for their support as well as the speakers who took the time to be there. 

They would also like to thank KWV Brandy and Cruxland Gin for their support over the past five years; their anchor sponsors De Jagers, Rola Ford Hermanus, Rola VW Hermanus, Rola Haval Hermanus and Rola GWM Hermanus; Tullishe le Roux and her team, the PTA moms, and all the businesses and individuals who sponsored, donated, gave discount and assisted (Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, The Whale on Main B&B, Century City Conference Centre And Hotel, Food Lover's Market, The Beanery Hermanus, Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, Manzi Water Hermanus / Kleinmond, Old Harbour Brewery, Function Hire, Sugarberry Distribution, Van Blommestein Butchery, Market Liquors, Pesto Princess, BUCO, Le Marchand, Hermanus Factory Shop, Pegasus Security, Eliasgat Boerdery, Hedgeware Trading, The Burger Brothers from Build it Hermanus, Ataraxia Wines, and Luddite Wines.

The Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse Ladies (L2L) held their first Sponsors Expo at Whale Coast Mall from 6 – 8 October. Organised by committee member Leatitia Dry Coetzer of Walker Bay Pest Control, the expo gave passersby a chance to learn more about the work done by L2L.

“We want to thank Whale Coast Mall for hosting the expo, and to give special thanks to all our sponsors – we appreciate your continued support!” said the L2L committee.

“Thank you to Hermanus Toyota, who has been supporting L2L since 2006; Food Lover’s Market Hermanus for supplying and sponsoring some of the food (and transport thereof) for the L2L Ladies on the official walk; Hermanus Office National for supplying the stationery for the very popular colouring-in competitions at the expo and Ocean Basket Hermanus for the prizes.  

“And of course thanks to Lighthouse Construction, Refine Anti Ageing Clinic, Manzi Water Hermanus / Kleinmond, Azure ONE Group, Crazylicious Cookies, Walker Bay Pest Control, Hermanus Factory Shop, The Beanery Hermanus, Laser and Lace, and Bierman Malan Optometrists. Thank you all for offering your family-time in selflessly serving L2L and the charities.”

Also at the expo were Overstrand Hospice and the Overberg Wheelchair Association who exhibited their services and products, as well as the Volmoed Youth Drummers and the Hermanus Senior Centre’s Trim Gim who entertained spectators.

The damage caused by wind and rain is still being assessed in the aftermath of the Level 9 storm which hit the Overstrand over the Heritage Day long weekend. 

Several roads including Clarence Drive, the N2 near Bot River, the Palmiet Bridge near Kleinmond, and the Hemel-en-Aarde Road (on the Hermanus side) have been closed due to sections of the road being washed away or damaged by flood waters.

Lagoons and rivers swelled with the rising water levels eroding banks and causing devastation to the Onrus Lagoon in particular, where mud, silt and reeds were washed into the ocean and then spread across the usually pristine beach. Early indications and some hydrology calculations have indicated that the flooding was most likely a 1-in- 200 year event.

It is now just three days since the storm has passed and already clean-up initiatives have been started at Onrus Beach, with volunteers showing up eagerly to assist in clearing the reeds and other debris ahead of the inaugural AIDA Onrus Bodyboarding Championships which start on 2 October.

Hester Finberg of Hermanus Women in Business and Kalfiefees has been instrumental in the clean-ups and has funded/organised donations for workers to remove debris from the Onrus lagoon and beach. They are also selling driftwood removed from the beach to further fund the workforce.

There are many other individuals and businesses who have donated their time and/or money towards this massive clean-up initiative in Onrus. The Overstrand community thanks you!