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June 2010
DOT CLEMINSHAW RECEIVES THE ORDER OF LUTHULI (SILVER), 2010
Marina da Gama resident Dot Cleminshaw has been awarded the Order of Luthuli (Silver) in recognition of her “excellent contribution to the struggle for an equal, just and democratic society;” yet she admits that when she first received news of the honour, she thought it was someone joking with her.“A woman from the Presidency telephoned to tell me: it was near April, and I thought it was someone playing an April Fool’s joke on me!” she smiles.
National Orders are the highest awards that a country bestows on its citizens, and she is especially pleased to have been recognised with the Order of Luthuli, named after the late Chief Albert Luthuli, Nobel Peace Prizewinner in 1960.
Dressed immaculately, as always, she models the Order on her black outfit: a large silver ‘neck badge’ on a yellow ribbon, with a design of the Hill of Isandlwana and a triangular flintstone – symbolising a basic survival tool, representing Chief Luthuli’s desire that all people be empowered in society. She also has a miniature and a lapel ‘rosette’, in silver, to wear on less formal occasions (see photograph).
Sadly, she will have little opportunity to do show them off as she is confined to the Marina home of her son, which overlooks Park Island. At the age of 87 – “I’ll be 88 in September,” she is frail and in constant pain after spinal surgery following a hiking fall.
This has not stopped Dot from participating in the world around her. From her bedroom, she commands attention with her internet-linked computer and continues to receive visitors, with whom she engages on a wide range of topical issues.
Born in Cape Town, she worked for the Department of Defense during World War Two, and married her husband, Harry, in 1949. “I thought that I’d be very ordinary,” she said, “probably a secretary. Which I was in a way.” It’s a too-modest statement, from one who worked with the Torch Commando, the Liberal Party, the Civil Rights League, the Defense Aid Fund and many other human rights organisations.
Despite being convicted, along with Dr Beyers Naude and others, by the Schlebusch Commission and having her passport taken away, she was never allowed herself to be intimidated and continued to offer her home and her talents as a haven to those seeking help. I first met her in the 1980s during the township police actions, and have always thought of her as the living embodiment of the fact that “one person can make a difference.” She was also awarded an honorary Masters degree in Social Science by UCT for her contribution to human rights. Yet she makes light of her efforts: “I did no more than decent people ought to do.”
She bore two children, Martin, and a daughter, Annie, who died some years ago, and has two grandsons, one at UCT and the other at Stellenbosch University. She moved into the Marina in July last year, but because of her restricted movement she has not had the opportunity to see much of it, something she regrets.
Any advice for the young? “If you want to do something worthwhile, get behind someone splendid and offer to help!”
Beverley Roos Muller
OUR WATERWAY SAGA...The portfolio report...
I would like to commence by correcting an unfortunate and inaccurate statement that was made in the April edition of the ‘Marina News’ namely that weed cutting operations were conducted by the council with particular emphasis to the requirements of the canoe club for their various activities and functions on the Vlei, and on the waterways. This is not the case. It should be noted that a recent international canoeing event which was scheduled to take place on the Vlei and waterways was, in fact cancelled, and took place at another venue, due to the appalling condition of the local waterways in respect of weed growth. Hardly an example of ‘preferential treatment’.
Unfortunately however, it is the case that the wishes, needs, and requirements of all users of, and residents on, the waterways in respect of weed clearance, generally appear to be ignored by the council.
The ‘Kingfisher’ weed harvester machines are in a near permanent state of unservicability. This is partially due to lack of spare parts, but mainly due to the maintenance contractor not receiving council authorisation to carry out the required routine maintenance of the machines as and when required.
There have been meetings ad nauseum between members of the Marina Da Gama Association Executive Committee, and members of the council, at which helpful proposals, such as setting up a planned maintenance schedule for the machines, at no charge were proposed. These proposals were welcomed by council, but to date no positive action has ensued.
There is a proposal extant that the operation of the kingfishers be taken over by the environmentalists, this would be a welcome development, but their funding and control comes from the same sources as at present, i.e. the council.
I conclusion, referring back to the reference to ‘preferential treatment’ it is perhaps worth mentioning that our own councilor, Mr. D. Qually, is himself a Marina resident. “On the water” and has to endure the same appalling conditions as the rest of us.
John Ridley
Feedback from our Councillor...
I must start this column out by apologising, on behalf of the City, for the problems experienced with weed growth in our canals – or more accurately, I should say, by the lack of harvesting thereof. As a fellow Marina resident, I also became fed up. The main problem has been the breaking down of the weed harvester and the location of the second one at another vlei. The warmer than usual weather coincided with the down time, and when the water level was lowered, the canals literally became overgrown overnight. What’s to be done?
About two years ago, the Parks department awarded a tender to a company to manufacture and operate a third machine to harvest the weeds. A number of problems arose with the machine, which did perform according to spec. The owners of the business fell out with each other and resorted to the courts. Council ended up without the equipment, but fortunately, not out of pocket. So, it has been back to the two machine schedule.
Further complicating matters are the competing needs of the Marina residents, Zandvlei recreational users and the ecology of the vlei. This particularly revolves around the water level. Too low a level prevents usage by the canoeists and sailors, as well as presenting problems to weed harvesting. To high and gardens and homes are flooded (remember last year). Ecologically, the salinity levels need to be maintained which involves opening the vlei mouth at spring tide.
With the conjunction of all these issues, we have had several meetings with senior Parks officials, Nature Conservation, Canoe and Yacht clubs and Marina da Gama exco members. Technical expertise is being used to develop an effective preventative maintenance and spares holding program (our Exco members have considerable experience having done this with planes and ships), as well as possible enhancements to the machines to increase usability. A long term schedule of mouth opening dates is being provided so that the recreational users can plan their events around them. Areas that can be accessed at various water levels are being mapped, so that operational time can be maximised.
We’re not out the woods yet (should that be weeds?), but these measures should help minimise the recurrence of our recent problems, and hopefully I will not have to write a similar column again.
Cllr Demetri Qually
DA Councillor - Ward 64
Office 021 784 2001
Fax 0865 760 582
Cell 083 629 1326
More... from a marina resident and canoeist.
Ref your Editor’s. letter in the latest Marina newsletter - I have an answer for you.
For as long as I have lived in the Marina (moved here on 1st December, 1984!), I have been one of the Marina residents who has continually been chasing the C.T.C.C. to sort of the weed problem in our waterways. That I am a canoeist (and a very keen one at that), I believe, has always been to the benefit of Marina dwellers, as, I am on the Marina canals training, at least 4 to 6 times per week and so I am in a very good position to monitor whether there is too much (or too little) weed in our waterways and in Zandvlei.
I have also, over the past 25 plus years been on the Marina Exco. in one form or another, but mainly as the Waterways rep. This portfolio I was forced to step down from last year, as working as I now do in Stellenbosch, it is difficult to make the monthly meetings of Exco. and hence, by virtue of the constitution of the Marina, I had to step down. I do however retain a position on the Waterways sub-committee which is chaired up by John Ridley and Dominic Young.
Those are the background facts.
Ref. the questions you pose in your letter:-
If the route that canoeists take through the Marina waterways are kept clear of weed, then almost all of the Marina residents benefit - only those in ‘blind’ waterways don’t, because canoeists in training and racing, seldom go into them - for obvious reasons.
I am also the Media Liaison person for the Western Cape Canoe Union - sending articles, results and feature items to the various media outlets in Cape Town - mainstream and community newspapers, radio stations and TV channels.
Having to undergo for years (25 plus!) the inefficiency, incompetence and plain, couldn’t-give-a-damn attitude exhibited by the C.T.C.C. with respect to keeping the weed in Zandvlei and the Marina canals under control (I mean this as we have to have it, but there can certainly a balance between the needs of flora, fauna, residents, canoeists, dinghy sailors, fishermen/women and other recreational users), I decided before the first canoeing event of the season to finally threaten the C.T.C.C. with exposure through the press (given my contacts) of their bungling incompetence in creating and reaching this balance.
(By the way, I have bulging files of correspondence from myself to the C.T.C.C. about this ongoing problem of weed that dates back to 1986, if you’d care to go through them sometime!).
Whether it was this threat or not that caused some action, I don’t know, but on the urging of myself, myriad members of the Peninsula Canoe Club wrote to/phoned/emailed/SMS’ed the C.T.C.C. via the local ward counsellor, Demetri Qually (who is also a resident living on the water of Marina da Gama) demanding action and so slowly the gears ground into motion and some cutting was done (just of the route) before the event on 6th April and currently, more is being done because the biggest (in canoe numbers) event of the local canoeing season is due to be held on these waters on Saturday 1st May.
Also due to be held on these waters on 8th and 9th June are the W.C.C.U. canoe marathon championships - however, the Exco. of the W.C.C.U., mindful of the fact the C.T.C.C. is so incompetent, has unfortunately moved the venue elsewhere - to guaranteed, clear water. Just think of what this move has done to the local canoe club, which relies on events held here to help with finances. In addition, Canoe South Africa was keen to re-look at Zandvlei and Marina da Gama for next years S.A. canoe marathon championships - after all, the World Canoe Marathon Championships were held on these waters in 1998 - however. again, and because of the lack of guarantee from the C.T.C.C. about weed control, this is in the balance and the main reason for it was to pitch again to the International Canoe Federation for privilege of hosting the World Championships again - here, on Zandvlei and the Marina! Sadly, given the track record of the C.T.C.C. here, this is now probably not going to be happen and just think of the loss of income, exposure etc. etc. etc. such an event would bring to the area?
So, I hope that the above helps clear your mind regarding the sudden flurry of activity where weed cutting is concerned - whilst it had everything to do with canoeing, it also had everything to do with the Marina - after all, I am a Marina resident first and foremost, only having started my canoeing career once I had been living here for a about 6 months (in May 1985).
I would be happy if you published this reply in the next newsletter, if only to put into perspective the synergy that needs to exist between Marina residents and recreational water users and that in their coming together, to get the C.T.C.C. to use our rates and taxes in the manner in which they are supposed to be spent - on the area in which we live.
Rob Maclean
CHAIRMAN'S RESIGNNATIONWe are very sorry to announce that Bob Craske has resigned as chairman of the executive committee of the association. Bob has served on Excom since 2007, and has been chairman since 2008. Under his leadership, and with his energy, drive and perseverance, much has been achieved - particularly the approval by council of our constitution. He was a most supportive chairman, handled meetings with a light touch, and was prepared to get involved in all aspects of Marina life. He will be greatly missed –We wish him well.
The members of Excom.
CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT
Our waterways are a central feature of our beautiful Marina da Gama and contribute in so many ways to the enjoyment of living here, and yes, our quality of life. To be able to use our watercraft, to swim, to fish, to walk along, to observe the birdlife in its many forms - these we take for granted and we only really notice when it is compromised.
That there is widespread dissatisfaction about the unhappy condition of our waterways at the moment is no secret, and we of Exco, who are also residents here, share your concerns.
So while reading the different inputs in this edition about this dilemma, be aware that your representatives are doing their utmost to find a long-term, sustainable solution. We are doing this in cooperation with all the other stakeholders connected to the waterways and greater Vlei area. It is a problem that we can and must solve.
(Prof.) Ampie Muller, Chair.
GUIDELINES FOR SOLAR HEATERSIt is apparent that more applications/enquiries are being made at the Marina Office with regard to the installation of Solar Powered water heaters. Archcom approval is required in accordance with the Design Manual.
The following are guidelines to assist Marina Homeowners when making an application for approval of the installation of a Solar Heater. They do not cover all cases and do not replace the requirement to obtain formal approval, from Archcom, prior to installation, nor do they negate any requirements council/other authorities may have. The guidelines relate only to the aesthetics of the installation, as required by the Design Manual, and do not relate to the installation, safety and operation of the unit which is the responsibility of the homeowner.
Where possible the Tank / Geyser must be placed in the roof space. (It is understood that is possible in most cases except where there is not space in the roof void ie no false ceiling). The installed unit must not be visible over the ridge or parapet lines.
The Heat Exchanger part of the unit must be positioned flat on the roof and where possible colour matched to the roof. Grey/Black – Charcoal colour. It must follow the natural slope of the roof and be parallel to the ridge or parapet wall lines.
On flat roofs, where it may be necessary to angle the Heat Exchanger to the roof, the complete unit must be concealed behind parapets.
Where these conditions cannot be met, it may be permitted, subject to individual case by case application, to install the unit in a yard or garden.
In all cases the required pipework must, in accordance with Marina requirement, be concealed.
Sketch drawings must be submitted in all cases – your installer can assist you with this. The drawing must take account of the specific requirements and show the final position of the unit in relation to the roof of the property.
STREET LIGHTS:
The picture of the street light, at Marina Moorings, shows that the majority of the lamp facets have been painted black. The street lights are for our safety, we are trying to get more of them to light the Public Parks; obscuring them only exposes pedestrians to risk at night from vehicles and from persons who are up to no good. If you know who painted out this light please contact the council Street Lighting Department.
LIGHT A CANDLE AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CRIME.
On Tuesday 13th of April, Marina residents joined forces at Upper Crust and supported a candlelight vigil in their support against crime.The weather was superb and as you can see from the picture, Elaine decorated the square at the Eastlake Village Centre with masses of candles to set the mood. All the table seating was done outside and another memorable event was enjoyed, with boerewors rolls, pizza, pasta, grilled linefish and plenty more from the menu.
Elaine
ELISA - EASTLAKE ISLAND SECURITY ASSOCIATION.The security system that we have on Eastlake Island ELISA has been a success. Since it’s inception a couple of years ago we have dramatically, if not completely, reduced the crime rate in our area. While we acknowledge that our streets are open to the public, ELISA has reduced if not completely eliminated, the number of casual passers by, possibly on the lookout for the opportunity to commit crime.
There has since been almost zero house break-ins, car theft, or property theft. For example flower pots, canoes, trailers, piles of building bricks and even plants(!) that have been left outside houses are less likely to disappear now. We are able to put out rubbish bins without having them ransacked.
Residents can now walk around the island without fear of being apprehended by people looking for jobs or handouts. And, one is able to garden on the roadside without having to look over one’s shoulder all the time. Children are able to cycle and play, and runners and dog walkers alike are safer than before. People in need are directed to The Link in Capricorn where they will be given assistance if appropriate.
Our success in forming ELISA has been a double edged sword!! New residents moving into the area, (and some old established ones) enjoy this security and take it for granted, not having been aware of the level of crime in the past.
Our MAIN problem is that only 70 % of residents are contributing ( and 100% are benefiting). We need to have 100% buy in if we are to keep up with the increases passed on to us by the service provider.
MEMBERSHIP IS ONLY R150 A MONTH. A SMALL PRICE TO PAY FOR SAFTEY & PIECE OF MIND.
All of us on the committee give our time freely and are happy to know that we have made a safer environment for all residents. We hope you, who are not yet members, will consider joining ELISA and help us to keep our very beautiful neighbourhood safe for all who live here.
Peter Kruyt (Treasurer)
021 788 5886 or 082 451 0516 or Kruyt@telkomsa.net
Banking details:
STANDARD BANK
Cheq Acc No 072047518
Code 025-609
EASTLAKE CRAFT MARKET...
Have you been to the ever-growing craft market at the Eastlake Village Centre? Where has the time gone! Our talented Marina crafters have been showcasing their work at The Eastlake Village Centre for 17 months already! Growing all the while, with new items appearing month after month! The atmosphere created is enjoyed by everyone, with breakfast on the square from The Upper Crust or residents mingling over a cuppa. There are give-aways at each table, fun gifts for special holidays, birthdays or surprise gifts for moms, dads, tots, boys and girls. Come and support our wonderful Marina crafters and get into the vibe of the Soccer World Cup! We’ll be happy to welcome you.
Iona Spalding and the Marina Crafters.
GOING ROUND THE BEND - Fishy storyThere’s nothing worse than an Easter egg made of bad chocolate, I think, gazing at the rows of gaudily-wrapped blobs that lined my local foodshop. You bite into it, expecting a mouthful of utter bliss, only to find you’re chewing on soap. Just not worth the calories.
My reverie is broken by a prolonged sigh from the teller. Her arm is moving faster than lightning, scanning the items in a blur of activity. The rest of her comfortable body is immobile. Having caught my attention she moves in rapidly: “We selling a lotta onions today,” she announces.
“Why is that?” I reply to the prompt. “For Easter, ah course,” she said, stating the blindingly obvious. Eggs I know about, chickens and bunnies too (all deeply pagan symbols as is the very word Oestre, but this isn’t a history lesson). But not onions. Do they paint them, I wonder?
“It’s for pickle fish!,” Ms Teller-Queen replies triumphantly. “It’s our culture at Easter, always pickle fish!” I didn’t know that, I tell her, but my mother used to make good pickled fish, though she forgot to teach me. So now I can’t.
“You muss learn!” says Ms Teller-Queen, sternly. Meekly, I agree with her. “But I doesn’t eat pickle fish, I doan like it. I likes snoek. Ja, a lekker snoek braai, that’s what I eats at Easter.”
As I leave, clutching a proper chocolate gold bunny with a red-ribboned bell, a gift for Marina luminary Dot Cleminshaw who’s just been awarded the Order of Luthuli (see photo-story in this edition), I think that the fish story makes sense. After all, Jesus seemed to have spent a stack of time with fishers, so he must have eaten quite a lot of it.
And there are times when I wish I had more energy and was less squeamish, and able to fish in the Marina’s waters, as do the two young fellows who cruise past us in summer, rods out, optimism up. What have you caught, I always ask? Sometimes they shake their heads, just small stuff they say. But once they were beaming: “A seven Kay Leervis!”
Eek, I think silently, thinking of these fishy giants swimming beneath me as I plough the waters of our canals. But it’s good news (though not for those that are caught): it means our waters are healthy, living, able to sustain huge fish as well as the little harders who leap like silvery springs in front of our canoe.
We are perched on the only functioning estuary along the False Bay coastline, nursing baby fish which could not survive their early years in the ocean. For this reason, we are reminded by Cassandra Sheasby, Manager of the Zandvlei Reserve of which we’re a part, there are Rules and Regulations!
All fishers have to have valid permits, and you need to know about sizes, quotas and so on. Nets, spearguns and the like may never be used, and fishing from bridges is prohibited, as is fishing between sunset and sunrise (so those of you out there fishing at night with torches on boats, that’s a no-no).
If you’d like to know more, contact her at cassandra.sheasby@capetown.gov.za for accurate information. And, she says, Happy Fishing! And may our living waters thrive.
Beverley Roos Muller
EASTLAKE GOOD SAMARITAN.
Thank you Mike for your continuous contribution to the upkeep of Eastlake Island. Mike goes around on a weekend with a huge bag and kindly ‘poop’ scoops all our open areas.Please dog owners it is your own responsibility to ‘pick up’ after your dog, and have consideration for others.
AND THE WINNER IS... ASHTON WINKWORTH!
Park Island is proud to announce that Ashton Winkworth, who has been riding for 7 years, achieved first place in show jumping at Glenellen Farm in Hout Bay just a few weeks ago. There were 30 entrants and Ashton achieved the fastest time.Her dad, Graham, bought her horse, Dorian March at Spier in Stellenbosch just 18 months ago. Ashton has been training him all the time at Lane Stables in Constantia.
Our warm congratulations to Ashton, from all of us in the Marina and especially from your parents and granny, Iona Spalding.
BACK TO THE FUTURE - PARK ISLAND MAY 1985The proposed development of this recreational area was debated as a result of the resistance to its development expressed by some members at the AGM. If the picnic area was on the outer fringes of the Marina, such as Peninsula Park, there could hardly be valid complaint, but the use of Park Island would mean an influx of cars in the middle of our residential area and the possibility of an overflow of cars parked down Park Island Way. Since the AGM the new committee has interviewed Municipal Department Heads with a view to solving the problem. It is clear from these discussions that the Council will not abandon the development of Park Island but appear to be amenable to discussion on (a) limiting picnic areas to the western side of the island (remote from our residential development), (b) limiting motor traffic to the available parking on the island, and (c) closing off the area at sundown. They further assured us that the minimum level of control would be that prevailing at Peninsula Park. A privately sponsored petition will shortly be doing the rounds. Residents will have an opportunity through this medium to express their opinion.
Extract from an old newletter
ROADS LESS TRAVELLED... TRANS KARIBA SUFT SKI PADDLE
For me, it all started with a phone call from Porky Paul (PMB, KZN). I picked it up and the following statement was made, “Hey Rob, its Porky here and you fit the profile!” I reply, “Sounds interesting – tell me more”. Porky continues “A group of us from KZN have planned to go up to paddle the length of Lake Kariba in Early April, but one of the chaps has been forced to bale – are you in?” I mean, can a shark swim (they can’t play rugby!), or is the Pope a Catholic?! A brief family discussion later and I was on board for what would be another great paddling trip/adventure.
We left Cape Town on the 26th March, flew to Johannesburg, met my new paddling buddies - Rob Humphries, Dawie de Wet and Peter Morphew and off we went! At Beit Bridge, decided to dispense with the ubiquitous ‘agents’, who, for a fee, will get you through the queues quicker – hell, all our documents were in order, so what could possibly hold us up? Yeah right – T.I.A.! After not moving in the queue on the Zim. side for nearly an hour, an agent was summonsed and R920 later, we were cleared to head for Bulawayo! In future, grind your teeth, grin and bear it – after all, it is only time (and some money) and Africa has lots of the former.
It was very sad arriving in Bulawayo, this is one of the towns I grew up in – what was once a neat, spick and span, well laid-out town is now a run-down, pot-holed, no traffic lights working – similarly, street lights, roads and pavements overgrown with grass and weeds (they’ve been having some terrific rains up there, so the countryside is looking wonderful) dump that bears little resemblance to where I spent a very happy.
On Sunday, we left Bulawayo on our way to Binga. We also went through a number of ‘toll’ gates – 2 x 44 gallon drums in the middle of the road with a length of irrigation pipe on top – no such things as brightly painted, reflective chevrons. A US $ later, and you are on your way again although just how some Zim. Vehicles get through is anyone’s guess. For example, what we thought was an approaching bush fire, turned out to be a passenger bus, crabbing its way down the road, belching out a huge column of smoke – was it stopped? Don’t be silly!
In Binga, we met the rest of the crew – Duncan ‘Porky’ Paul, Rob Parker, Rod Pretorius, Dave Button, Colin Burdon and the pro-photographer, Kelvin Trautman. Also, the crew of the houseboat, O.B.J. (short for Oh-Be-Joyful!) – Captain Phillip, Chef Warren, speedboat skipper Silas and the washer and ironing man, Fowler. The double cab was quickly unpacked (it was loaded with food and supplies – just as well we weren’t stopped and searched I suppose.
Admiral Porky was adamant that we got out of the Binga lagoon ASAP – too many mozzies there and a croc, by name of Bismarck, that had despatched a cow and a local man to the happy hunting grounds during the week!
The ‘fleet’ of 4 x Fenn XT double surf skis hit the water and headed out of the Binga lagoon at high speed – the idea being to outrun/outsmart Bismarck, which is what happened as no sign of the monster was had (thank goodness). The wind was up, and so it was into a good headwind that we paddled – which cooled everyone down – as we made for the Sengwe Peninsula (where the Sengwe River enters Lake Kariba). 3 ˝ hours and 26 kms later, we arrived, with the setting sun and pulled up in the lee of a small peninsula upon which were twin Baobab trees.
Sundowners of Bollinger beers chased the sun below the horizon (over Zambian waters) and it was as anyone who has ever been on those waters could have expected – spectacular, and hot!
The next morning, we headed for Chete Gorge, which was but a shadow on the horizon, given our paddling height above the water. Entering Chete Gorge was spectacular, especially as we were greeted by Kelvin perched top of the cliffs, taking photos. The gorge, only a few 100 meters wide, with Zambia on the one side and Zim. on the other, was (as told by Porky) the scene of a bloody ambush on a group of people by an R.A.R. patrol during the Rhodesian bush war, the bodies of whom were devoured by what was a monster croc.(Bismarck’s’ sibling, Tirpitz?). Knowing just how long crocs can live for, the paddling pack had their eyes skinned as we cruised through the gorge.
We had an easy paddle along the islands to the north of Silobilo, stopping to view the game as we went – Waterbuck, Impala, crocs, hippos and a single, magnificent elephant bull – who gave us a bit of a mock chare as we were only about 15 - 20 m off shore when we paddled slowly past him.
On the approaches to Bumi, the amount of game on the shoreline increased (this area is National Park, not a hunting concession area such as that which he had paddled alongside the previous 3 days and we had many jumbo and antelope sightings. Buffalo too and even a hippo on the beach at midday on approach to Bumi Hills! Just off the beach below Bumi Hills hotel, was a herd of jumbos having fun in the water – wallowing around, squirting water – generally having a jol. We all clambered aboard Silas’ speedboat and he took us in for a closer look and a photo opportunity. The wind dropped in the late afternoon, early evening and we were rewarded with another magnificent sunset studded with towering Cumulus Nimbus clouds soaring thousands of feet into the sky. The fishermen did well, landing plenty of Kariba Bream which would be on the menu the following day.
Having paddled over 230 kms and on our way back…
The trip back to Bulawayo, was not without bits interesting points – for example, bartering for wooden curios to take home and then when Dawie got hit in a speed trap – doing 82 km in a 60 kmh zone – when he asked if he could check to see if the camera was working, he was shown that….yes, you’re correct – it wasn’t! Maybe the batteries had gone flat they said – anyway, the fine was reduced from US$80 to US$10. They were trying to work the bribe whilst all Dawie was interested in was the paperwork for his scrapbook!
We were fortunate with the weather as it was cool and overcast and we made in to Beit Bridge by 09h30, getting through both sides of the border in less than 50 minutes! Now why can’t that happen going the other way – i.e., into Zim?!
At Louis Trichardt, Pete got lumbered in a speed trap, but one that was working this time (a R200 fine). However, it was welcome back to RSA with a big slap across the chops, when a very aggressive SAPS policeman, on seeing me taking a message on my cell phone accused me of taking a photo of the speed trap, which was, in his opinion not allowed and that he was going to smash my cell phone to pieces with his boot. Well, it wasn’t worth trying to argue with him, so I kept quiet (I was furious) and let Dawie and Rob work their special brand of humour of him until he quietened down and we could get on our way again – talk about being hit by a bucket of ice-cold water and in the province where young Julius ‘Dilemma’ Malema hails from too!
Then it was on through Pretoria – all in cool, overcast conditions and through lovely, green countryside, to arrive back at the Midrand Ultra City where I was dropped off whilst Rob H, Dawie and Pete made their way home to KZN.
A fantastic trip with a great bunch of paddlers doing the thing that we all like to do so much –getting out there to paddle in incredible surroundings.
What a pleasure. Dankie Manne.
Rob MacLean
NIGEL CURLING : Photographer
Professional photographer for over 40 years covering every field of photography which included forensic photography in the BSA Police, International photographer for a major Oil company, covering corporate advertising, engineering and mining, advertising photography for a large TV corporation and various advertising houses. Nigel has been living on Eastlake Island for the past ten years and now concentrates on wedding photography and functions.
A very special moment in his career was being awarded a Royal Commission to photograph Her Majesty the Queen during her Golden Jubilee celebration around the Channel Islands.
Due to numerous enquiries and together with a formar technical representative of Kodak, Nigel intends to start up a Photo School in the Marina, in order to assist residents to perfect their skills in using their equipment regardless of the type of camera, digital or film.
In order to gauge numbers, it would be appreciated if interested parties contact Nigel on nijill@worldonline.co.za or Elaine Meyer at Upper Crust in Eastlake Shopping centre. Once potential attendance numbers have been finalized, contents of the course wilth costs will be posted.
IF INTERESTED - COME AND JOIN US !
Nigel
RED EARTH AND RUST
The Blind, The Beagle(mania) and The Blues... Anyone living in Marina da Gama or thereabouts might have wondered in the past months whether those piano notes floating across the water from no 10 Delft Close served any particular purpose.
Well, they did. Their purpose has been, and will continue to be to put a new band called Red Earth & Rust on the map.
The band consists of lyricist Barbara Fairhead and singer/composer Jacques Coetzee, together with whoever is playing with them.
They have just released their second (double) album, Wrestling the Angel/Dark Mercy, at the Theatre in the District, District Six. It features Jonny Blundel (guitars), Brydon Bolton (double bass), Ross Campbell (drums and percussion), the inimitable Dave Ferguson (harmonica), Gustavo Fasani (bandoneon) and Natalie Mason (viola).
The album was recorded in the comfort of their home over four weeks, and you can hear the relaxed atmosphere in the warmth of every performance. One title track, Dark Mercy, was written about, among other things, the way the light turns blue just before sunset on the Marina, and one can feel the light change in those dark chords.
At the moment the album is available from several independent CD shops – Revolution Records, Mabu Vinyl, Upbeat and the African Music Store.
Or, if you are in too much of a hurry, you can hear four of the band’s tracks immediately on their site, www.redearthandrust.com.
Keep your eyes and ears open.
Jacques Coetzee
BACKUP, BACKUP, BACKUPThe mantra for all computer users should be “Backup, backup, backup”. The more crucial or valuable the data the greater the frequency of backups should be and the more redundancy the better. For example, in the case of a business, if you suffered a catastrophic loss your computer systems, how long would it take to recover administratively? (Invoices, quotes, debtors, creditors, correspondence etc.) As an individual do you have hard copies of all the photos, letters, emails, addresses etc?
Some data needs to be backed up often others less often. We often use the Grandfather, Father and Son analogy for backups. Son would be the daily backups, Father would be weekly and Grandfather would be monthly. It is always best to get in a professional to assess your requirements as each situation requires a different approach. There is little worse than the false security of a poorly implemented back systems. I have lost track of the number of times people have said “I was just about to backup” or “I thought it was being backed up!” Unless the backups are tested on a regular basis you could be in for a nasty surprise when you actually need to restore from the backup. No system is infallible, no matter what the purveyor purports.
Internet access stability has become something of an issue in the past months and I generally get the call from clients once they have been through the call centre maze. If you have not changed your equipment, fiddled with settings or similar then the problem probably isn’t on your side. Whatever you do resist the call centre’s suggestion that you reset the router / modem, this takes it back to factory preset without user names and passwords etc. There is almost never a need to do this, especially if you know it you haven’t changed this yourself. In my experience the problems lie with 1.) Telkom 2.) The ISP 3.) Virus’s and 4.) Hardware failure or issues, in that order. While its difficult tell you exactly what to look for in diagnosing the problem as each router is different it is a good idea to make a note of which lights are on when the internet is working properly, that way if it is not working then you can see if any lights are off and narrow down the possible cause. These are the “normal” lights: Power, LAN (1 – 4), Internet (or PPP) and ADSL.If your modem / router has an antenna then there is also a WLAN light.
If all the lights are on but you get “Page cannot Be displayed” try open a local page (www.telkom.co.za). If that works then you are probably capped. You should still be able to send and receive email. Your ISP can sell you additional cap. If you are not capped then it’s probably a virus.
If the ADSL light is on but the Internet or PPP light is off and you haven’t changed username or password then it is an ISP or Telkom problem. If the ISP isn’t experiencing problems then the port needs to be reset on Telkom’s side (or the exchange has a problem.)
If the LAN or WLAN lights are off then the problem lies with the hardware either in the router or the PC or your network cable linking the PC to the modem / router is unplugged.
If no lights are on check the power supply (especially the 2 prong types), if the power supply is properly plugged in and warm then the modem / router has died
Daryl Meyer
DataSafe Computing
HISTORIC MUIZENBERGThe Muizenberg Historical Conservation Society has recently published “Muizenberg- A forgotten story”, a lavishly –illustrated book, tracing the development of the town from the time of the arrival of the railway in 1882 to becoming South Africa’s premier holiday resort, enjoying its heyday prior to World War Two. Copies are available-price R150 (more in bookshops) from Elaine’s Upper Crust, or one of the contacts listed in the final paragraph below.
The Jewish community played a prominent part in that history a fact reflected in the exhibition ”Memories of Muizenberg” which has been running at the Jewish Museum in Cape Town and is due to close on 11th June. This is a very attractive display of photographs, artefacts and family history and negotiations are currently in progress to find a permanent home in Muizenberg for this valuable collection.
The influence of the “RANDLORDS”, Cecil Rhodes, Abe Bailey and JB Robinson has left us with an impressive legacy of landmark buildings designed by Sir Herbert Baker.
We have, in Het Posthuys, what is reputedly the oldest building in South Africa dating from the time of its settlement by the Dutch East India Company. The modest appearance of this single-storey thatched house belies its chequered history as Guardhouse, Barracks, Public-house, Tollhouse and finally seaside home until it was finally rescued from obscurity on the brink of being demolished.
Cecil Rhodes seaside cottage, where he died in 1902 has been lovingly preserved with many original furnishings, and a detailed record of his life, works, deeds and misdeeds.
The site of the Battle of Muizenberg in 1795 has been cleared to reveal the fortifications and layout of the camp. This was a small-scale, virtually bloodless, but decisive battle; the first British occupation of the Cape and the reason why we speak English rather than French in Cape Town.
The Natale Labia home, now re-named “THE FORT”-its original name, was built by the father of the present Count Labia, who was appointed by Mussolini as Ambassador Plenipotentiary to South Africa. His taste for the baroque is reflected in the tooled leather ceiling imported from Venice.
After a few years of public ownership and neglect the house has now been recovered and restored by the Labia family and will once more be accessible to the Public for cultural events.
The SAPS Museum, adjacent to Het Posthuys, also a sad case of neglect, has been given the finance to refurbish the building and restore it as a community museum. With the transformation of the derelict ”Cape Sands” into an upmarket residential development the restoration of Muizenberg’s Historic Mile will soon be complete.
The Historical Society has a general responsibility for our local heritage, and direct curatorship duties for Rhodes Cottage, Het Posthuys and the Battle site. Guest speakers at regular members’ meetings cover subjects of local and regional interest. The meeting on 27th May was devoted to the history of the Jewish Community. Later in the year we will cover the ins and outs of the development of Marina Da Gama, which will no doubt be of special interest to Marina residents.
New members and guests are always welcome at our meetings. Enquiries to Peter (788-5951) Liz (788-3414) or Joye(788-8224)
Peter Harrison
SETTLED IN JOZIDearest all,
Soccer hysteria sweeps the city and one cannot negotiate any intersection without being beseiged by hawkers selling a colourful choice of national heraldry. Ironic that its the game of ‘ rugby’ that has given South Africans their first taste of using local transport, discovering Soweto and just how much noise a vuvuzela can make! Its all exciting stuff I simply can’t wait for the games to begin!
At a more personal level, B and I have finally ‘settled’ having moved twice since my arrival. We are now residing in a beautiful garden cottage which affords both peace and privacy while still being centrally situated to all amenities. The garden has a stream running through it so we are lulled to sleep by a chorus of frogs rather than the Marina’s raucous Egyptian geese.As daylight approaches this sound is replaced by the noise of electric garden vacuum cleaners or the subtle ‘swish’ of leaves being swept!
I have found a large park in the area [me and the Malawian housekeepers] to run Max [with a variety of pooches] every morning and he now takes his ‘dip’ in the Braamfontein Spruit which offers a few more challenges in water quality than our beautiful Sunrise Beach! It is too dangerous to cycle here during the week, but we have joined a cycling club and go out with them at the weekend accompanied by motorbike escort to promote our safety on the roads! A favourite destination is the ‘The Cradle’ of Humankind which is very scenic and if we’re lucky we can get to see lion , rhino and baboons along the way! Last night we were enthralled by Prof Lee Burger, at Wits University, as he talked about the project that led to the discovery of the 2 new hominid fossils and what we can possibly learn from that discovery.
My hands freeze in the early morning frost and my skin and hair yearn for moisture. However, I have time to ‘explore’ my creative ability, the ‘mysteries’ of my computer and research topics that facinate me. I spend more time with my friends,doing yoga and B and I go away more frequently over the weekend. This weekend we are going to Limpopo Province to take part in a 1 day, 4 stage bicyle tour over 170ks through one of my most favourite landscape types. That of the Baobab Tree!
We have come ‘home’ for one fleeting visit since the Argus which coincided with CapeTown’s first wnter storm. I loved the raw energy of the sea, was presented with the first found Paper Nautilus Shell on Sunrise Beach this winter and so enjoyed visiting Park Island, Zandvlei and my Enviro Education groups, Capricorn LINK and some Marina folk. What a pleasure to see EVERYTHING and EVERYBODY I came across, absolutely thriving. It made my heart feel so good, even though I miss you.
I hope this finds you all, fit and fiesty. Enjoy the World Cup.
Much love,
Cherry
OUTREACH - LEND A HAND IN LAVENDER HILLYOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROJECT AT LAVENDER HILL SECONDARY SCHOOL
By Faseeg Manie, Principal Lavender Hill Secondary School and June Orsmond, Project Co-ordinator and Marina da Gama resident.
Treat a person as he is and he will stay as he is. Treat him as he should be and he will become what he could be.
Just across the M5 and only 5 minutes away from our calm and peaceful waterways is Lavender Hill - by all accounts a troubled, dangerous, gang-infested ghetto.
Is there no hope for them? Do we just accept the sad social situation, OR Do we get involved; lend a humanitarian helping hand and reach for social change? HOW?
By helping and supporting Lavender Hill Secondary School
For several years I have worked with courageous principal Faseeg Manie and staff to roll out the project Lend a Hand in Lavender Hill. They face constant financial and manpower challenges, but they cling to a vision of mindset change. The project is now in the exciting key activation Phase 2 and there is much opportunity for help and support - and this is really why I am writing to my Marina friends and neighbours.
Are there humanitarian-spirited folk out there who would be interested in supporting Lavender Hill Secondary School in some way with their work with the thousands of young people passing through their doors?
I have attached a list of “ways to help”, but first let us describe the project.
To achieve social change we believe that we need to create an empowering environment at school to deal with the young people’s challenges; we need to get them off the streets and we need to give them alternatives in a healthy, safe and structured environment.
The core objective of the project is mindset change
We believe that through this project we will slowly create new horizons for our young people and guide them towards taking responsibility and ownership.
School and learners should become pillars of light in the community.
Phase 1 – Infrastructure: Achieved and completed.
Phase 2 – Activation, Activities and skills development.
Outline Steps of Phase 2 are:
- Appoint a professional occupational therapist and assistant, an Operations Manager
- In consultation with OT, learners, staff, develop extra-mural activity and leadership programmes.
- Develop extra-mural sports activities; equip and clothe participants.
- Develop and equip anger management/self-defence/fitness programmes,
- Upgrade school ablution facilities.
- Install security beams and/or cctv cameras.
- Upgrade school buildings and grounds.
- Reactivate library.
- Acquire 2 minibusses and build secure storage.
Develop commercial lavender fields on one and a half hectare piece of unused school ground. Involve the local community, including related cottage industries at school and in community. At present this is a dream which could turn a community around, but it needs a visionary leader .
To make our youth empowerment vision happen, we need to form meaningful, focused, partnerships with past pupils, NGO’s, friends, consultants, volunteers and community.
Would you like to help in one or part of the following ways?
Join the Lavender Hill Secondary School Friends Association (FRASS). Only R50 per annum. Phone or e-mail June for an application form. Membership puts you on the newsletter mailing list and updates you on activities at school and use of money.
Take out a My School Card and nominate Lavender Hill Secondary School as your beneficiary.
Support library redevelopment. Urgent: Does anyone have 6 hours a week available to supervise library activities during school hours?
Exciting news is that we have possibly found a partner to revive the library. This will happen over the June school holiday and includes new book stock and a computerized catalogue system. Opening planned for 14th July.
Guide improvement of the grounds/gardens. We have a charming and very willing gardener, Daniel, but he does not have a clue about gardening.
Do you have about 4 hours a week available to be the fundraising secretary? You could work at home or at school but you would need to be an excel fundi.
Etc, etc, etc. So many ways in which to use your skills and spare time to help and get involved in this stimulating initiative.
Please come and visit our school, have a cup of tea with us and see what we are doing. Visitors time is from 10.30am to 12.30 every Tuesday morning. Please phone June Orsmond 083 709 4105, e-mail June.orsmond@telkomsa.net or Principal Manie at school on 021- 701 9000. Website: www.lavenderhillss.org.za
June
ED'S LETTER...We have such a nice full edition this time round, thank you to all the Marina people for sending their stories and pictures, and a big thank you to Elaine (and her helpers) for keeping her hears to the ground! Please keep sending us more. This is what the newsletter is all about - getting to hear all about our community.
Soccer is here!!
It has been amazing to see how many cars have their flags on. I am not much of a sports fan in general, but even my 5yr old daughter gets excited everytime she sees anything soccer related! We haven’t bought our vuvuzela yet, but I fear it will be inevitable.
For those of you going on holiday, hope you have a great holiday, get to lie on the couch, eat plenty of pizza and watch the soccer.
Kim kim@kedesign.co.za