One stop shop for major motor dealer
Hundreds of guests enjoyed the recent opening of Union Motors' new passenger and commercial vehicle service and parts premises in Shelly Beach.
DAVID RUSH REPORTS.
AFTER years of hard work, Un¬ion Motors officially opened its new passenger and commer¬cial vehicle service and parts premises in Shelly Beach last Saturday.
And, wow, it is certainly an impres¬sive set-up. Johann von Bargen, of East Coast Radio 'traffic guy' fame, summed it up well.
"You could build a motor vehicle with all the stuff found in this place," he quipped, while performing the role of emcee for the evening. And it is quite possible that it boasts Mercedes- Benz's only boardroom with a sea view.
The new premises will prove a major benefit for long haul¬ers, providing them with a one-stop drive through. The premises are situated close to the highway in Shelly Beach, not far from the Southcoast Mall.
What used to be a sugar cane field has now been transformed into magnifi¬cent premises.
Owner, Hugh o 'Mahoney, welcomed guests and reminded them that the premises in Shelly Beach, oppo¬site the Shelly Centre, were still very much in operation. The dealer principal is Malone Horn, a powerfully¬ built man, who has represented South Africa at strong man competi-tion on no fewer than 11 occasions.
Union Motors has been on the South Coast since 2002. It was first established in Springs in 1923 and has been a Mercedes-Benz dealer since 1961.
The latest invest¬ment in this region totals a staggering R70-million.
The South Coast branch covers the area from Scottburgh to the Eastern Cape.
The world-class global brands represented at this facility are Mer¬cedes-Benz, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Mitsubi¬shi Motors, Mercedes¬Benz commercial vehi¬cles, Freightliner, Fuso and Western Star.
The facilities incor¬porate a 1000 square ¬metre vehicle workshop, with four drive-through bays, able to service trucks without having to unhitch their trailers.
In the passenger vehicle workshop, there are two active reception lanes and 12 bays all with lifts.
This facility will be manned by 33 top-flight technical staff, fully trained and managed by Paul Samuel, the fixed operations manager.
The nearby Sandy's Auto Fitment Centre is an 18 bay, fully equipped workshop which can fit all acces¬sories, bakkie liners, security film and more.
The parts de¬partment, managed by Sammy Maharaj, houses 16 000 lines of stock valued at more than RI6-million.
The commercial vehicle sales depart¬ment is managed by Tony Westoby, while Basil Naidoo heads up the administration department.
Tuesday, 29 April 2008
UGU is raring to GO
RUTH Bhengu, deputy mayor of the Ugu District Municipality, knows that 2010 is a marketing event of note for South Africa.
She says, "During the apartheid era, South Af¬rica was isolated from the global market. After 1994, we staged several international events, namely the Rugby World Cup, the Cricket World cup, the World Growth and Development Summit and the World Aids Conference. These were all to promote South Africa in the world market.”
Ruth feels that as a result of the popularity of soccer in South Africa, the country has been placed in a strategic position. The spin-offs for the country having won the rights to stage the 2010 FIFA World Cup, are enormous.
"The stadiums which have been built will benefit the country in the future. The stadium that has been built in Gamalakhe was delayed until we knew we had done it right. We wanted to ensure that, after the hype of the games had died down and life re¬turned to normal, the design was such that it would encourage growth.
"A sustainability plan was put together. Due to the amount of foreign investment in the building of the stadium, we ensured that those countries which had hosted similar events, and which had built simi¬lar stadiums, had input to the design and sustain¬ability of the stadium.
'We were determined that it was not going to end up as a 'white elephant after the 2010 Soccer World Cup:' Although Ugu was granted 'Camp Base' status, it was one of five KwaZulu-Natal municipalities which received this award.
These 'bases' are areas where soccer teams can practice, receive training and perhaps acclimatise before the big matches held in the larger centres.
"The fact that we will be hosting fringe matches is great. What is of paramount importance is the other key factor in this issue ... service.
"We have trained our staff, from hotel waiters to petrol attendants, regarding the importance of first ¬class service. I don't want our guests to experience the poor service I experienced before these games, way back in 2008.
"I was staying in a reputable five star hotel in KZN, and received the most atrocious service you could imagine. The housekeeping service was not available until 7.30am and maintenance was not available until 8am.
''This was not acceptable, and we knew our in¬ternational visitors would not accept service of this standard. The training we put in place ensured it never happened.
"It is all good and well to have been given the right to stage the World Cup, but if we cannot supply the serv¬ice to go with it, then we have lost out:”
Time was another of the factors which had to be taken into consideration.
'When we have teams that are staying in the Ugu district, in our wonderful hotels, they need to know that everything will work perfectly.
"If they are playing a match in Dur¬ban at 3pm, they need to know that the hotel will be able to cater for their needs, and ensure that they will be in Durban in time for the match.
"Transport, laundry, catering ... all have to be per¬fect to ensure timetables are met.
"I am confident that KwaZulu-Natal, and Ugu in particular, will meet the challenges which will face us when staging the 2010 soccer championships. We are all going to be proud of our efforts."
The Property Circle focuses on Property for Sale on The SOUTH COAST / HIBISCUS COAST Kwazulu-Natal South Africa. The Areas we cover are Shelly Beach, Uvongo, Margate, Ramsgate, Southbroom, Marina Beach, Trafalgar, Palm Beach, Munster, Glenmore, Leisure Bay and Port Edward. Our main focus is on Vacant Land for Sale along the SOUTH COAST, although we do deal with all types of Real Estate on The SOUTH COAST. Please take your time and enjoy our web site
She says, "During the apartheid era, South Af¬rica was isolated from the global market. After 1994, we staged several international events, namely the Rugby World Cup, the Cricket World cup, the World Growth and Development Summit and the World Aids Conference. These were all to promote South Africa in the world market.”
Ruth feels that as a result of the popularity of soccer in South Africa, the country has been placed in a strategic position. The spin-offs for the country having won the rights to stage the 2010 FIFA World Cup, are enormous.
"The stadiums which have been built will benefit the country in the future. The stadium that has been built in Gamalakhe was delayed until we knew we had done it right. We wanted to ensure that, after the hype of the games had died down and life re¬turned to normal, the design was such that it would encourage growth.
"A sustainability plan was put together. Due to the amount of foreign investment in the building of the stadium, we ensured that those countries which had hosted similar events, and which had built simi¬lar stadiums, had input to the design and sustain¬ability of the stadium.
'We were determined that it was not going to end up as a 'white elephant after the 2010 Soccer World Cup:' Although Ugu was granted 'Camp Base' status, it was one of five KwaZulu-Natal municipalities which received this award.
These 'bases' are areas where soccer teams can practice, receive training and perhaps acclimatise before the big matches held in the larger centres.
"The fact that we will be hosting fringe matches is great. What is of paramount importance is the other key factor in this issue ... service.
"We have trained our staff, from hotel waiters to petrol attendants, regarding the importance of first ¬class service. I don't want our guests to experience the poor service I experienced before these games, way back in 2008.
"I was staying in a reputable five star hotel in KZN, and received the most atrocious service you could imagine. The housekeeping service was not available until 7.30am and maintenance was not available until 8am.
''This was not acceptable, and we knew our in¬ternational visitors would not accept service of this standard. The training we put in place ensured it never happened.
"It is all good and well to have been given the right to stage the World Cup, but if we cannot supply the serv¬ice to go with it, then we have lost out:”
Time was another of the factors which had to be taken into consideration.
'When we have teams that are staying in the Ugu district, in our wonderful hotels, they need to know that everything will work perfectly.
"If they are playing a match in Dur¬ban at 3pm, they need to know that the hotel will be able to cater for their needs, and ensure that they will be in Durban in time for the match.
"Transport, laundry, catering ... all have to be per¬fect to ensure timetables are met.
"I am confident that KwaZulu-Natal, and Ugu in particular, will meet the challenges which will face us when staging the 2010 soccer championships. We are all going to be proud of our efforts."
The Property Circle focuses on Property for Sale on The SOUTH COAST / HIBISCUS COAST Kwazulu-Natal South Africa. The Areas we cover are Shelly Beach, Uvongo, Margate, Ramsgate, Southbroom, Marina Beach, Trafalgar, Palm Beach, Munster, Glenmore, Leisure Bay and Port Edward. Our main focus is on Vacant Land for Sale along the SOUTH COAST, although we do deal with all types of Real Estate on The SOUTH COAST. Please take your time and enjoy our web site
Tuesday, 22 April 2008
SA property hit by emigration
Finance24
Monday, 21 April 2008 14:53:00
More SA homeowners are dumping their properties on the market for emigration purposes, with 12% of sellers planning to leave SA, says FNB.
Monday, 21 April 2008
Property mkt still 'depressed'
Eighty-three percent of sellers have been forced to accept a lower price, while the average time that a house is on the market has risen to 12 weeks, statistics show.
Property mkt still 'depressed'
Finance24
Monday, 21 April 2008 13:54:00
Keep the heat this winter
Keep the heat this winter
2008/04/21
Our home décor and DIY expert Janice Anderssen suggests an easy way to prevent your house or townhouse from feeling like an oven in summer and a fridge in the winter.
What is Aerolite?
Aerolite is manufactured locally according to technology from Owens Corning Toledo, USA. It is made from pure spun glass, bonded with an inert thermo-setting resin to form a strong, resilient, easy-to-handle blanket.
Aerolite forms a highly efficient thermal barrier which excludes solar heat gain in summer and retains heat generated within a building in winter. It reduces heat flow by up to 87% and can lower the temperature in summer by up to 5°C. What's more, Aerolite's insulation efficiency is unaffected by its orientation to, or the direction of, heat flow. 
Aerolite is the only ceiling insulation in South Africa that does not burn - as it is made from fibreglass! This means it is the safest insulation you can buy.
Keeping cool indoors when it is hot outdoors is a problem. The sun beating down on our homes causes indoor temperatures to rise to uncomfortable levels. Insulated ceilings reduce the heat flow between the outside and the inside of your home, keeping it warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
In our hot summer months, up to 35% of the heat in your home enters through an uninsulated ceiling. If you have ever been up into your attic during the summer, you know yourself how hot it can be up there. Insulating the ceiling of your home should be a top priority.
Draught-proofing your home will also help keep the summer heat out. For example, seal windows and door bottoms with insulation strips. 
Installing Aerolite
1. Measure the distance between the timber roof trusses.
2. Cut the insulation material - while it is still in the bag - to the correct width to fit snugly in the space between the roof trusses.
3. Roll out firmly between the roof trusses on top of the ceiling.
4. Wrap insulation around waterpipes so that they do not freeze in winter, and we recommend you also wrap the geyser for further savings on electricity bills.
Benefits at a glance:
- 30-year guarantee
- Saves money on electricity bills
- Does not provide sustenance for rats and mice
- Non-combustible
- Contains no asbestos or plastic fibres
- SABS tested and approved (SABS 1381 Part 1)
- Reduces condensation
- Mould-resistant
- Light weight
- Corrosion-resistant
- Maintenance-free
- Sound absorption
- Will add value to your home
- Available in mini rolls
For more information click here to visit the website.
Friday, 18 April 2008
Electricity now a global challenge
Electricity now a global challenge
2008/04/18
Global demand for electricity is increasing rapidly on the back of ongoing economic development and security requirements, according to various sources. What is being done about it?
Two years ago, before rolling black-outs became a dreaded feature of life in South Africa, energy expert Professor Anton Eberhard warned that the efficacy of electricity supply planning and investments needed to be improved.
Writing in the UCT News (30 May 2006), Professor Eberhard, who leads the Management Programme in Infrastructure Reform and Regulation at the UCT Graduate School of Business, also emphasized the importance of developing sustainable demand-side management programmes.
"And," he adds, "as a contributor to the Energy Policy White Paper published by the government in 1998, I also warned that generation capacity would run out in 2007 and that the next investment decision was needed by the end of 1999 at the latest!"
Fast forward to 2008 …
Today, the country is in the throes of an electricity supply crisis that, while difficult to measure accurately, has had a detrimental effect on business confidence, says Richard Downing, an economist at SAACI (the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry - formerly SACOB).
(At this point, it is interesting to note that Nicola Brooks of Moneyweb interviewed Ian Mckechnie, president of the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers on 17 January 2008. He told her that Eskom and government have known since 1990 that South Africa would run out of generating capacity by 2007.)
Commenting on SAACI's Business Confidence Index (BCI) for January 2008, Downing says business confidence has declined to its lowest level since October 2003. "The electricity shortages are of such a severe, sensitive and strategic nature that the magnitude in terms of real physical economic performance and capacity constraints has not yet fully entered the information base that shapes the business opinion and mindset," he says ominously.
He adds: "It is apparent that the shortage of electricity poses a severe threat to the production capacity for goods and services, since critical production time is lost due to electricity power shortages during working hours. Even if the loss in output could be limited to between 5% and 10% of GDP, it will be difficult to attain any growth in the economy in 2008. The severity of the electricity crisis has shifted all the attention towards keeping the economy functioning 'normally' on the supply side. The weaker rand against important trade and investment-related currencies bears testimony to a troubled business mood…."
Global electricity challenge
Global demand for electricity is increasing rapidly on the back of ongoing economic development and security requirements, according to various sources.
Among those countries treating the world-wide energy challenge as a priority is the USA. An example of its commitment to energy conservation is in President Bush's December 2007 signing into law of the Energy Independence and Security Act (H.R.6). According to Bill Williams, IEEE-USA's legislative representative for technology policy activities, the Act directs the Department of Energy to adopt a new national technical standard for interconnecting distributed energy sources to the electric power grid.
The Act also contains measures that will see the phasing out of inefficient incandescent light bulbs, the improvement of appliance efficiency standards and the implementation of other conservation measures, he adds.
In Australia, the New South Wales Government is spending an extra $85 million upgrading the central coast's electricity network, according to ABC News ("Health concerns over NSW electricity upgrade", 1 March 2008).
Other countries
Perhaps of little comfort to South Africans right now (particularly when they're caught up in their thousands in traffic snarls caused by power outages which render traffic lights useless) is that other countries are also experiencing power problems.
These include China, which according to Jody Clark in MoneyWeek (19 April 2007), is experiencing rising demand for electricity to the tune of 13% a year. He says that China's power plants – 78% of which are run on coal – are working overtime as a result. "And when you factor in that coal production in the People's Republic is not increasing significantly, it's no surprise that China has just become a net importer of coal after years as an exporter."
Switzerland is also troubled. According to swissinfo.ch, as the number of Christmas lights increases every festive season, fears are mounting that the country could face a shortage of electricity by 2020. ("Christmas lights spark electricity concerns" - 20 December 2007.)
Solutions
So what's South Africa doing to resolve the problem?
According to Luyanda Makapela in BuaNews (6 February 2008), the government launched South Africa's National Energy Efficiency Campaign in February and is working on energy-savvy proposals to include in the Electricity Regulation Act. Makapela says these proposals include increased use of solar power lighting and heating, replacing incandescent lights with energy-efficient bulbs, and promoting the use of creative systems lighting (CSL).
Regulations will be supported by electricity rationing, continues Makapela, who wrote in BuaNews a week later (11 March 2008) that three electricity experts from France had arrived in South Africa "to help Eskom define the country's most pressing needs in terms of power generation, capacity and maintenance."
Alterative power
Wind-generated power, believed by Wikipedia to have been used for grinding grain in Persia since 200 B.C, is the world's fastest growing new source of electricity, according to America.gov (www.america.gov). "Turning sunlight into energy has been a dream of inventors at least since 1861, when the first sun-powered motor was patented in France. Today, innovation, investment and technology advances have produced solar technologies that generate power and reduce stress on a critical electricity infrastructure."
In his article "Global Wind Power Capacity Reaches 100,000 Megawatts" for the Earth Policy Institute (EPI - www.earth-policy.org – 4 March 2008), Jonathan G. Dorn says that global wind power capacity increased by a record-breaking 20 000 megawatts last year. This has brought the world total to 94,100 megawatts: "enough to satisfy the residential electricity needs of 150 million people".
In Europe, he notes that 2007 was the first year ever in which wind power additions exceeded the additions of any other power source, including natural gas. "Europe's installed capacity currently totals 57,100 megawatts, and its new installations in 2007 accounted for 43 percent of total global installations. Wind-generated electricity now meets nearly 4 percent of Europe's electricity demand, enough to supply electricity to 90 million residents."
Germany, the world's frontrunner in total installed wind power capacity, generates more than 7 percent of its electricity from the wind, says Dorn. Spain ranks third in total installed wind capacity, with wind energy supplying 10 percent of its electricity, second only to Denmark in terms of percentage of electricity generated this way.
"France also demonstrated impressive gains in 2007, increasing its total installed wind capacity by 57 percent to 2,450 megawatts," he says, adding that the French government's goal is to increase installed wind capacity to 25,000 megawatts by 2020.
According to Dorn, the USA is the world leader in new installations and has been for the last three years. On track to overtake Germany as the leader in installed wind power by the end of 2009, the USA boasts wind farms in 34 states, the electrical output from which equal to that "from 16 coal-fired power plants and enough to power 4.5 million U.S. homes".
SA and the generator generation
Here in South Africa, going to bed earlier at the suggestion of Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica, is one way of cutting back on electricity usage.
This sage advice seems to have had little impact on South Africans, however, judging by unflagging demand for generators. Whether it's because South Africans as a nation don't like going to bed early, prefer hot coffee to iced tea or have an aversion to the food in their freezers defrosting and thereby making them vulnerable to food poisoning, they've become the generator generation.
Carpe diem, though: leading generator producer and supplier Jetman warns that these Eskom-panaceas can be lethal in the hands of novice users and get-rich-quick installers whose commitment to quality and expertise is negligible.
"There are several considerations to keep in mind when choosing which set to buy, and where and how to install it," says Jetman founder and CEO Wayne Soekoe. "The recent power failures have resulted in many businesses and home owners rushing out to buy generators. Remember, however, that a generator set ("genset") is in itself a supply authority, which makes the dangers and risk of electrocution exactly the same as Eskom or municipal supplies. The change-over requirements between the two power sources are crucial to the safety of the installation – incorrect connections are potentially fatal."
He continues: "There are many different generators on the market so get a qualified electrician to advise you on the best one for your needs. Heating appliances such as stoves, heaters, dishwashers, geysers, kettles, tumble dryers, toasters and hairdryers draw a lot of power while PCs and electronic equipment don't use much power but are voltage-sensitive. If the generator does not deliver a constant voltage and there are dips and spikes in the system, equipment is likely to suffer damage. It's therefore a good idea to initiate some internal load shedding when using a generator so switch off some lights when you want to boil the kettle."
"Single-phase generators work for most home-owners and motors of five horsepower or less. Industrial or commercial applications usually require three-phase power, which is also better for motor starting and running."
Finally, his advice for those faced with choosing gas or diesel-powered generators, is that diesel is the answer to longevity and lower operating costs. "Today's modern diesels are quiet and normally require much less maintenance than comparably-sized gas (natural gas or propane) generators," Soekoe explains, adding that fuel costs per kW produced with diesels are normally 30 to 50 percent less than gas units. – Ingrid Olivier
For more information contact SACCI at (011) 446 3829 or Wayne Soekoe of Jetman at (012) 252 0338, or send an email. Click here to visit the website.
Electricity now a global challenge
Medics cycle to the rescue
Medics cycle to the rescue
Netcare 911 and its partners have launched South Africa’s first 'Cycle Medics '. DANIEL LEMMER REPORTS.
When ahol¬idaymaker suffers a heart attack or drowns at the beach, onlookers wait for the howl of an ambulance. But from now on, they are more likely to see the quiet ap¬proach of a panting Net¬care 911 ' cycle medic'.
The new 'cycle medic' concept was presented by Netcare 911 at the Netcare Margate Hospital on Wednesday last week.
The event was at¬tended by hospital staff and the cycle medics, lifeguards and sponsors, among them Netcare 911, Winners Cycles, Ubuntu Life¬guards, Stat Tiakeni Medical, Union Mo¬tors and Auto Exec.
The six cycle med¬ics, trained paramedics and lifeguards on bicy¬cles, are the answer to rescue delays when holiday traffic con¬gests roads and slows ambulances down.
''An ambulance takes, on average, about 15 minutes to get to an emer¬gency. The cycle medics can do the trip in four to six minutes", said Chris Botha, in charge of media liaison for Netcare 911.
In the case of a heart attack or a drowning, a few min¬utes can save lives.
The project was the brainchild of Margate Netcare 911 staff, un¬der Craig Botha, the operations manager, and Ubuntu Lifeguards. Its aim is purely to benefit the community and is the only medical cycle project of its kind in the whole of South Africa.
The project, which operates only during the Easter and December holidays, has many other hidden advantages.
"We see things we wouldn't see from an ambulance. We've al¬ready helped a few peo¬ple and some ask for our medical advice," said Dustin Norris; one of the new cycle medics.
The cycle medics are divided into three teams of two, consisting of a trained paramedic and a lifeguard., The first team will cover the area from Shelly Beach to Uvongo, the second will cover the area from Luc¬ien Beach to Ramsgate. The third team will operate from TO Strand to Southbroom.
They have been on the road since Sunday last week.
Netcare 911 and its partners have launched South Africa’s first 'Cycle Medics '. DANIEL LEMMER REPORTS.
When ahol¬idaymaker suffers a heart attack or drowns at the beach, onlookers wait for the howl of an ambulance. But from now on, they are more likely to see the quiet ap¬proach of a panting Net¬care 911 ' cycle medic'.
The new 'cycle medic' concept was presented by Netcare 911 at the Netcare Margate Hospital on Wednesday last week.
The event was at¬tended by hospital staff and the cycle medics, lifeguards and sponsors, among them Netcare 911, Winners Cycles, Ubuntu Life¬guards, Stat Tiakeni Medical, Union Mo¬tors and Auto Exec.
The six cycle med¬ics, trained paramedics and lifeguards on bicy¬cles, are the answer to rescue delays when holiday traffic con¬gests roads and slows ambulances down.
''An ambulance takes, on average, about 15 minutes to get to an emer¬gency. The cycle medics can do the trip in four to six minutes", said Chris Botha, in charge of media liaison for Netcare 911.
In the case of a heart attack or a drowning, a few min¬utes can save lives.
The project was the brainchild of Margate Netcare 911 staff, un¬der Craig Botha, the operations manager, and Ubuntu Lifeguards. Its aim is purely to benefit the community and is the only medical cycle project of its kind in the whole of South Africa.
The project, which operates only during the Easter and December holidays, has many other hidden advantages.
"We see things we wouldn't see from an ambulance. We've al¬ready helped a few peo¬ple and some ask for our medical advice," said Dustin Norris; one of the new cycle medics.
The cycle medics are divided into three teams of two, consisting of a trained paramedic and a lifeguard., The first team will cover the area from Shelly Beach to Uvongo, the second will cover the area from Luc¬ien Beach to Ramsgate. The third team will operate from TO Strand to Southbroom.
They have been on the road since Sunday last week.
Ramsgate offers many riches
The quaint village of Ramsgate is no longer just a quiet retirement area.
LONG regarded as one of the best holiday destination and there is a primary/high destinations on the lower South Coast, school in the area. Ramsgate has slowly evolved into a place where people prefer settling permanently.
"Because there are so many wonderful advantages to living in Ramsgate, people have started buying property here to settle permanently, as opposed to using them just as holiday homes,” says Natalie Herbert, director of the Brink Property Group.
"A happy result of more people settling permanently is that crime has significantly de¬creased, as there are a fewer number of homes standing empty,"
Security has further improved, with Ramsgate's own policing forum.
Having run the property business in Ramsgate for the last 10 years, Natalie has witnessed firsthand the positive growth and changes in the area. She herself moved to Ramsgate three years ago and says that she is much happier living there. '
"Ramsgate is still popular with tourists and we are proud of our beautiful beach. It is well looked after and there are full time lifesavers. There are also excellent restaurants in close proximity to holiday flats, so it's convenient for visitors.
"It also isn't just a place for retirement. We have a lot of first-time home buyers with young families moving in. The shopping centre is a convenient, one-stop shopping destination and there is a primary/high school in the area.
“The lovely bowling greens are enjoyed by all the residents, and we are proud to have a recovery centre in the area as well,” Natalie adds.
But what really makes Ramsgate standout is its lush, green I landscape, the charming and quaint little shops and restaurants that dot the area, and the friendly people who live there.
"Best of all, despite having all the amenities and conveniences found in bigger towns on the coast, our traffic volume isn't quite as high."
LONG regarded as one of the best holiday destination and there is a primary/high destinations on the lower South Coast, school in the area. Ramsgate has slowly evolved into a place where people prefer settling permanently.
"Because there are so many wonderful advantages to living in Ramsgate, people have started buying property here to settle permanently, as opposed to using them just as holiday homes,” says Natalie Herbert, director of the Brink Property Group.
"A happy result of more people settling permanently is that crime has significantly de¬creased, as there are a fewer number of homes standing empty,"
Security has further improved, with Ramsgate's own policing forum.
Having run the property business in Ramsgate for the last 10 years, Natalie has witnessed firsthand the positive growth and changes in the area. She herself moved to Ramsgate three years ago and says that she is much happier living there. '
"Ramsgate is still popular with tourists and we are proud of our beautiful beach. It is well looked after and there are full time lifesavers. There are also excellent restaurants in close proximity to holiday flats, so it's convenient for visitors.
"It also isn't just a place for retirement. We have a lot of first-time home buyers with young families moving in. The shopping centre is a convenient, one-stop shopping destination and there is a primary/high school in the area.
“The lovely bowling greens are enjoyed by all the residents, and we are proud to have a recovery centre in the area as well,” Natalie adds.
But what really makes Ramsgate standout is its lush, green I landscape, the charming and quaint little shops and restaurants that dot the area, and the friendly people who live there.
"Best of all, despite having all the amenities and conveniences found in bigger towns on the coast, our traffic volume isn't quite as high."
Heather 'Fergie' Clark is totally 'over the moon'
Port Shepstone's own Heather Clark has won the Masters' surfing title in Peru.
TEAM South Africa continued its reign as the indisputed champion of world masters' surfing by trumping the world's best 35-years and older surfers to win the overall team crown at the 2008 International Surfing Association World Surfing Championship in Peru.
Led by individual gold medalists Heather Clark (masters' women), Marc Wright (kahunas) and Chris Knutsen (grand kahunas), South Africa blew away the competition to take its second consecutive team World Championship.
Former world tour surfer Heather Clark (Port Shepstone) got the ball rolling for the South African team, blasting her way to victory over Peru's Rocio Larranaga, Sandra English (Australia) and Brigitte Mayer(Brazil) in the final of the Masters Women's (over 35 years) division.
South Africa's most decorated female surfer was in a league of her own, netting 15.83 points in the final to end the event with the four highest heat tallies and the five highest single ride scores in the women's event.
"I'm absolutely ecstatic," Heather said. "In 2003 I was in contention for the title on the World Tour, so it's always been my dream to win a world title. I'm over the moon."
South Africa finished on top with 10 500 points, 1100 ahead of Australia in second, with Brazil (9 041) finishing in third and hosts Peru rounding out the top four with 8766 points.
Said ISA president Fernando Aguerre, "The proverbial fountain of youth is closer than we might think: it is the waves of the world. We don't stop surfing because we get old, we get old because we stop surfing ... so don't stop!"
The location of the 2009 ISA World Masters' Surfing Championship has not yet been chosen but locations in South Africa and Brazil are in the running.
TEAM South Africa continued its reign as the indisputed champion of world masters' surfing by trumping the world's best 35-years and older surfers to win the overall team crown at the 2008 International Surfing Association World Surfing Championship in Peru.
Led by individual gold medalists Heather Clark (masters' women), Marc Wright (kahunas) and Chris Knutsen (grand kahunas), South Africa blew away the competition to take its second consecutive team World Championship.
Former world tour surfer Heather Clark (Port Shepstone) got the ball rolling for the South African team, blasting her way to victory over Peru's Rocio Larranaga, Sandra English (Australia) and Brigitte Mayer(Brazil) in the final of the Masters Women's (over 35 years) division.
South Africa's most decorated female surfer was in a league of her own, netting 15.83 points in the final to end the event with the four highest heat tallies and the five highest single ride scores in the women's event.
"I'm absolutely ecstatic," Heather said. "In 2003 I was in contention for the title on the World Tour, so it's always been my dream to win a world title. I'm over the moon."
South Africa finished on top with 10 500 points, 1100 ahead of Australia in second, with Brazil (9 041) finishing in third and hosts Peru rounding out the top four with 8766 points.
Said ISA president Fernando Aguerre, "The proverbial fountain of youth is closer than we might think: it is the waves of the world. We don't stop surfing because we get old, we get old because we stop surfing ... so don't stop!"
The location of the 2009 ISA World Masters' Surfing Championship has not yet been chosen but locations in South Africa and Brazil are in the running.
Thursday, 17 April 2008
Odds in favour of rate hike
Finance24
Wednesday, 16 April 2008 22:50:00
There is a 70% chance of another 50 basis points interest rate hike and an even chance of two additional hikes before year-end, says an economist.
Mbeki 'not man for Zim job'
Apr 17 2008 12:07PM
The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions says Thabo Mbeki is no longer a suitable person to mediate in the Zimbabwean crisis.
Huge potential in African property
Huge potential in African property
2008/04/17
In terms of property, Africa is the last true emerging market, outperforming the Pacific rim countries – but there are challenges.
According to Ian Fife, property editor of Financial Mail, Africa is the last true emerging market. "Asia is a technically emerging market but with property returns that are not worth writing home about. The same as Russia really. The one market that hasn't been covered is Africa. None of the major institutional investors are focused on Africa. That has to spell opportunity," he says. "Real estate opportunities are huge in Africa but they come with obstacles like a lack of infrastructure which is needed before investment can take place, but well worth the effort."
Mike Flax, founder and CEO of Spearhead concurs that, "There are a lot of opportunities in Africa but it is hamstrung because of land title issues and corruption etc. Therefore it is difficult to become a real player in Africa."
According to property economist Francois Viruly, Africa is the dark continent.
"In Africa, with the number of people and growth in population, the lights need to go on. Then the property market will get the infrastructure it needs," says Viruly. "Instead of one man one vote, economic development must get us to one man one volt. 
"According to Gross Domestic Product, Holland looks very big while most of Africa disappears off the map.
"The moment that changes property opportunities start arising. Africa is not a continent where nothing is happening. There are a number of countries exploring it at the moment. It is a continent with commodities that China and India want. 20% of US oil comes from the African continent. That must offer opportunities."
Nick Tyrrell, head of Research and Strategy at JPMorgan's European Real Estate Group, says that from a European or US perspective there is a lot of opportunity for strong returns in African real estate. "But we also see risky, opaque and inaccessible markets with significant exchange rate risk that is near impossible to hedge and worry, maybe unfairly, about red tape, political risk, and corruption," he says.
"From my trip to Cape Town I learned that most of these things are not really true of South Africa. But South Africa on its own is just too small a market that is too far away from London or New York to be worth the cost of investing in by itself.
"I came away from Cape Town convinced that South African property specialists should be using their expertise not to take South African capital into Europe and the US, as seemed to be the theme of the recent IPD/SAPOA conference, but rather to attract European and US capital into Africa by exporting South African methods and know-how to the rest of the continent."
Hyprop Investments' CEO Pieter Prinsloo disagrees. "We need our methods and know-how locally – there's enough growth in South Africa to keep us occupied," he says. "In Africa there are constraints like a lack of infrastructure and a consumer base. Effectively one works from a low-income base."
Patrick Sumner, head of Property Equities at Henderson Global Investors, says his team is prepared to take on development market risk. "However, because the Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) structure is not operational in South Africa and because local institutional funds are crowding out foreign investment, I don't feel there is currently opportunity in South Africa," he says. "On the positive side though there's information on South Africa's successes. IPD numbers need to be promulgated abroad and South Africa needs to continue to work hard on bringing REIT legislation in."
According to Colin Young, head of Institutional Asset Management at Old Mutual properties, "China is number one in attracting foreign investment, with Africa being fifth".
"Size does matter when it comes to attracting foreign capital," he says. "No one else is punting Africa or specifically South Africa - we need to do it!"
Lisa Forshey, a general manager of Absa Bank limited, concurs with Young that the focus has to be on size. "We have to focus on getting South Africa's stock level to a place where it can attract the money," she says.
The good news is that despite these constraints, Malcolm Frodsham, director of Research at IPD UK, says that property investors are searching for opportunities and that South Africa is well placed to be a growth hub. - By Kara Michaels
Huge potential in African property
KZN property feels rates pinch
KZN residential property values are feeling the corrosive effects of jumping interest rates and the National Credit Act.
Wednesday, 09 April 2008
Golfers know their business
SOUTH COAST HERALD 4 April 2008
The ever present Yzelle Greyling and her partners Angie Milroy, Debbi Stewart and Barbara Rousseau, won the Business Day at San Lameer last Friday.
The team scored 91 points to win by a margin of three from Leon Olivier, Marius Visser and Eddie and Edward Dreyer. They Counted out the visiting fourball of another father and son combination, Charles and Christiaan Rossouw, and Johan Rademeyer and Queenie Becker.
The short holes went to Hennie Oosthuizen on the 4th , Howard Frizelle on the 9th , Johan Coetzer on the 14th and Edward Dreyer on the 16th. Johan Coetzer also took the prize for the longest drive for men while Christa-Marie Opperman outdrove the other women. Nico Mantoan and Murray Ross’s fourballs won the jackpot.
San Lameer’s next Business Day is on April 25, with a shotgun start a noon. The club is being very well supported by members of neighbouring clubs as well as with sponsorships from Estuary Hotel and The Bistro.
The betterball competition last Wednesday was also a father and son combination, with Eddie and Edward Dreyer scoring 44 points to win. Second was Seis Prinsloo and Sollie Swanepoel on 42 points. They counted out Kevin Wood and Gert van der Westhuizen.
Saturday again saw the higher handicappers scoring the most points. Heather Wright scored 40 points off a 19 handicap, with the local ‘King of Stableford’ Nico Mantoan showing a welcome return to form by scoring 38 points. Colin Heath from Pretoria Country Club was third on 37 points.
The Women’s Day will be played on April 7. Players to note that it is still a shotgun start, but at noon.
The ever present Yzelle Greyling and her partners Angie Milroy, Debbi Stewart and Barbara Rousseau, won the Business Day at San Lameer last Friday.
The team scored 91 points to win by a margin of three from Leon Olivier, Marius Visser and Eddie and Edward Dreyer. They Counted out the visiting fourball of another father and son combination, Charles and Christiaan Rossouw, and Johan Rademeyer and Queenie Becker.
The short holes went to Hennie Oosthuizen on the 4th , Howard Frizelle on the 9th , Johan Coetzer on the 14th and Edward Dreyer on the 16th. Johan Coetzer also took the prize for the longest drive for men while Christa-Marie Opperman outdrove the other women. Nico Mantoan and Murray Ross’s fourballs won the jackpot.
San Lameer’s next Business Day is on April 25, with a shotgun start a noon. The club is being very well supported by members of neighbouring clubs as well as with sponsorships from Estuary Hotel and The Bistro.
The betterball competition last Wednesday was also a father and son combination, with Eddie and Edward Dreyer scoring 44 points to win. Second was Seis Prinsloo and Sollie Swanepoel on 42 points. They counted out Kevin Wood and Gert van der Westhuizen.
Saturday again saw the higher handicappers scoring the most points. Heather Wright scored 40 points off a 19 handicap, with the local ‘King of Stableford’ Nico Mantoan showing a welcome return to form by scoring 38 points. Colin Heath from Pretoria Country Club was third on 37 points.
The Women’s Day will be played on April 7. Players to note that it is still a shotgun start, but at noon.
Greenprint will make the coast better
The overwhelmingly positive response to a document that safeguards a town’s environmental integrity could set a green precedent.
JUDI DAVIS REPORTS. SOUTH COAST HERALD 4 April 2008
SOUTHBROOM residents have pledged the unanimous support for the adoption of a 'greenprint' for their town's future.
The 'greenprint' goes by the lengthy name, 'Towards the Implementation and Enforcement of the Mpenjati Southbroom Town Plan for Eco¬logically Sensitive and Sustainable Coastal De¬velopment'. It was commissioned by Southbroom Conservancy and Ratepayers' Association.
In a nutshell, it is a set of guidelines for main¬taining Southbroom's environmental integrity. It also sets out how residents could ensure that future development is sympathetic to their town's essential character.
A renowned environmental management specialist, Dr Jeff McCarthy, is the author of the 'greenprint'. He has drawn it up within the parameters of zoning and other town planning laws and bylaws and general environmental legislation.
As Southbroom is a seaside town, Dr Mc¬Carthy was mindful of the Integrated Coastal Management Plan White Paper. This is expected to become a bill and, as such, part of South Africa's legislation very soon.
Presenting his document at a well supported meeting in Southbroom last week, Dr McCarthy, said it was important for residents to recognise the uniqueness of their town. Also at the meet¬ing was Neil Fox, from the provincial planning department and representatives of Hibiscus Coast Municipality.
As Dr McCarthy pointed out, Southbroom has a peaceful, rural atmosphere, much privately owned land that is environmentally sound, three coastal estuaries and a number of small reserves and conserved areas.
Even its attractive golf course has envi¬ronmental value, particularly as it serves as a filter for surface water. The town was well protected by an inherently sound town plan¬ning system, which, however, did require some refinement, he said.
As short-term measures to protect the town from unsound development, the document suggests that residents monitor the estuaries carefully, reinforce the protection of conserved areas and ensure the strict enforcement of town planning legislation.
It also stresses the importance of working with local government and province to ensure “sympathetic development in sympathy with its surrounds".
However, for the 'greenprint' to carry weight, Dr McCarthy believed it would need the commitment, involvement and support of the people of Southbroom and the greater South Coast community.
The 'greenprint' has ramifications beyond the borders of Southbroom. Already, residents of other towns have expressed an interest in it. As supporters of the Southbroom initiative point out, if all SOUTH COAST towns drew up their own 'greenprint' documents and committed themselves to upholding them, the SOUTH COAST would be a better place for all its residents.
JUDI DAVIS REPORTS. SOUTH COAST HERALD 4 April 2008
SOUTHBROOM residents have pledged the unanimous support for the adoption of a 'greenprint' for their town's future.
The 'greenprint' goes by the lengthy name, 'Towards the Implementation and Enforcement of the Mpenjati Southbroom Town Plan for Eco¬logically Sensitive and Sustainable Coastal De¬velopment'. It was commissioned by Southbroom Conservancy and Ratepayers' Association.
In a nutshell, it is a set of guidelines for main¬taining Southbroom's environmental integrity. It also sets out how residents could ensure that future development is sympathetic to their town's essential character.
A renowned environmental management specialist, Dr Jeff McCarthy, is the author of the 'greenprint'. He has drawn it up within the parameters of zoning and other town planning laws and bylaws and general environmental legislation.
As Southbroom is a seaside town, Dr Mc¬Carthy was mindful of the Integrated Coastal Management Plan White Paper. This is expected to become a bill and, as such, part of South Africa's legislation very soon.
Presenting his document at a well supported meeting in Southbroom last week, Dr McCarthy, said it was important for residents to recognise the uniqueness of their town. Also at the meet¬ing was Neil Fox, from the provincial planning department and representatives of Hibiscus Coast Municipality.
As Dr McCarthy pointed out, Southbroom has a peaceful, rural atmosphere, much privately owned land that is environmentally sound, three coastal estuaries and a number of small reserves and conserved areas.
Even its attractive golf course has envi¬ronmental value, particularly as it serves as a filter for surface water. The town was well protected by an inherently sound town plan¬ning system, which, however, did require some refinement, he said.
As short-term measures to protect the town from unsound development, the document suggests that residents monitor the estuaries carefully, reinforce the protection of conserved areas and ensure the strict enforcement of town planning legislation.
It also stresses the importance of working with local government and province to ensure “sympathetic development in sympathy with its surrounds".
However, for the 'greenprint' to carry weight, Dr McCarthy believed it would need the commitment, involvement and support of the people of Southbroom and the greater South Coast community.
The 'greenprint' has ramifications beyond the borders of Southbroom. Already, residents of other towns have expressed an interest in it. As supporters of the Southbroom initiative point out, if all SOUTH COAST towns drew up their own 'greenprint' documents and committed themselves to upholding them, the SOUTH COAST would be a better place for all its residents.
Take a walk on the wild side
The heritage beach walk is definitely worth the exercise.
SOUTH COAST HERALD 4 April 2008
THE Petrified Forest is along the stretch of beach between the WILD COAST SUN Hotel and the Mzamba River mouth. Sedimentary rockbeds along the seaside and cliffs on the landslide are rich in fossil deposits of a bygone age.
Large logs, turtle scutes, reptile remains, comminuted shell material, shark teeth and ammonites are com¬mon. During low tide, foreshore reefs are exposed for more than a kilometre along the beach. Silicified tree trunks orien¬tated in an east-north-east direction are noticeable. Some of these are enormous, reaching lengths of up to five metres, whereas others are hardly larger than a piece of braai wood.
On either side of the Mzamba River mouth is a range of low cliffs, up to. 20 me¬tres high. These cliffs contain hard layers of rock alternated with fine-grain silt horizons. Heavy surf action at the base of these cliffs has resulted in small caves in the silt.
The name 'forest' is a misnomer, as none of the logs are preserved in an up¬right position, but are embedded horizon¬tally in the rocky ledges.
The sensitive coastal dune forest oc¬cupies the narrow belt on the row of high dunes running down the coast. It includes flora on the beach and the mud flats of the estuaries, making it a particularly interesting ecological zone. Flora found along this stretch of the coastline in¬clude dune morning glories, dune aloes, strelitzias, crane flowers and flame lilies.
The Umtamvuna and Mzamba rivers carry a large silt load and are responsible for the murky brown colour of the warm Indian Ocean from time to time.
Stands of black mangroves, date palms and yellow coast hibiscus grow along the river banks.
Guided walks are available at 9am eve¬ryday at the WILD COAST SUN HOTEL AND CASINO RESORT'S public relations desk.
SOUTH COAST HERALD 4 April 2008
THE Petrified Forest is along the stretch of beach between the WILD COAST SUN Hotel and the Mzamba River mouth. Sedimentary rockbeds along the seaside and cliffs on the landslide are rich in fossil deposits of a bygone age.
Large logs, turtle scutes, reptile remains, comminuted shell material, shark teeth and ammonites are com¬mon. During low tide, foreshore reefs are exposed for more than a kilometre along the beach. Silicified tree trunks orien¬tated in an east-north-east direction are noticeable. Some of these are enormous, reaching lengths of up to five metres, whereas others are hardly larger than a piece of braai wood.
On either side of the Mzamba River mouth is a range of low cliffs, up to. 20 me¬tres high. These cliffs contain hard layers of rock alternated with fine-grain silt horizons. Heavy surf action at the base of these cliffs has resulted in small caves in the silt.
The name 'forest' is a misnomer, as none of the logs are preserved in an up¬right position, but are embedded horizon¬tally in the rocky ledges.
The sensitive coastal dune forest oc¬cupies the narrow belt on the row of high dunes running down the coast. It includes flora on the beach and the mud flats of the estuaries, making it a particularly interesting ecological zone. Flora found along this stretch of the coastline in¬clude dune morning glories, dune aloes, strelitzias, crane flowers and flame lilies.
The Umtamvuna and Mzamba rivers carry a large silt load and are responsible for the murky brown colour of the warm Indian Ocean from time to time.
Stands of black mangroves, date palms and yellow coast hibiscus grow along the river banks.
Guided walks are available at 9am eve¬ryday at the WILD COAST SUN HOTEL AND CASINO RESORT'S public relations desk.
The Property Circle focuses on Property for Sale on The SOUTH COAST / HIBISCUS COAST Kwazulu-Natal South Africa. The Areas we cover are Shelly Beach, Uvongo, Margate, Ramsgate, Southbroom, Marina Beach, Trafalgar, Palm Beach, Munster, Glenmore, Leisure Bay and Port Edward. Our main focus is on Vacant Land for Sale along the SOUTH COAST, although we do deal with all types of Real Estate on The SOUTH COAST. Please take your time and enjoy our web site.
Turn back the hands of time…
Back in the land of the living
Lea Jacobs experiences the rustic life and discusses what was happening in 1991.
As far as I am concerned, deadlines should be banned. I recently returned to the Her¬ald offices after a wonderful three week break. I spent my time reading, watching a bit of telly and even managed to get up to False Bay in Northern KwaZulu-Natal for a couple of days.
The only deadline I had was at 6pm, when I was forced to open a bottle of wine in order to enjoy a sundowner.
Speaking of sundowners, we stayed in a rustic camp, which I thought meant the lodge we'd booked into didn't use fabric softener and the towels would be a bit scratchy.
Wrong ! It meant no lights, except for a paraffin lamp. It also meant that the shower was a bucket with a rope attached. The bucket was filled with cold water and then hoisted above your head. If one wanted hot water, one had the option of using what they termed a donkey. The instructions read as follows: 'Before lighting the fire under the ap¬paratus, ensure that the tap is open. Failure to do so could lead to the donkey exploding.' Needless to say, we showered in cold water.
I love the bushveld and wildlife in general, but as you know from previous columns, I do have a bit of a problem with buck. Luckily for me, only one brave fellow wandered into our camp. Person¬ally, I think that the bush telegraph had done its work and the buck in MARGATE had let their North Coast cousins know that I was coming.
I have to be honest at this stage, and admit that it was very nice to get home and soak away the grime (my personal record for showering in frigid water is now 5.4 seconds) in a long hot bath and enjoy the electric light once more.
It is for that very reason that I am taking a look at 1991, as living in the dark ages is, as far as I am concerned, for the birds and I feel more comfortable chatting about modern times.
I must be getting really old as I remember 1991 as if it were yesterday. I was, therefore, somewhat gobsmacked to read that back then a beef roast was priced at R8,98 a kilogram and lamb was available for a measly R 7,98 per kilo. Condensed milk was on the shelves for RI,99 and a bottle of cleaning fluid was R2,69.
The Faerie Glen Hotel was offering an eight course lunch for the grand sum of RI2,50. But the best news of all was that South Coasters could invest in the latest top of the range computer equipment. Yes, for the pricely sum of R6 995 computer whizzes of yesteryear co indulge in their computer fantasies.
The machine not only came with a 14-inch mono monitor, but unbelievably it came with a massive 12 megs of Ram!
On the property scene a villa in San Lameer was priced at R185 000 while a development comprising of six units on the beachfront in Glenmore Beach could have been yours for R450 000.
By 1991, the quality of television programmes had improved dramatically. 'Misdaad in Miami' had made Don Johnson a household name and changed the face of male fashion forever. 'LA Law' was a massive and led to an enormous number of students enrolling for a law degree, in the hope that one day their future boss would resemble Harry Hamlin.
On the downside, there was a programme, called ‘Super Sam Swats Safety'. I have absolutely no idea what this little gem was about but with a title like that it could only have been good.
Yes, indeed, we have come a long way sit 1991. One has to wonder just how far along we’ll be in another 17 years.
Pampered pigs rule the roost at Brightley .
TREVOR and An¬gela Dunstone from Brightley farm and Lake Eland don't have grandkids' yet, but their adopt¬ed pair of orphaned ‘grandpigs' is giving them a very good idea of what might lie ahead one day.
The two hairy and aerial-tailed sisters called Madam and Eve were brought to Brightley Farm to be spoiled and fattened up after being orphaned at LAKE ELAND during December last year.
Spending their days in a spacious 'pigpen', complete with mud bath, beach umbrellas and a chair on which Trevor sits to cuddle them, they have grown from scrawny, rough and hairy ba¬bies since their arrival three months ago into ‘spekvet', rough, hairy and adamantly demand¬ing miniature warthogs.
With their enclosure being just outside your scribe’s office, their presence is constantly heard especially when it's time for 'Grandma Angela' to bring their milk bottles. They have of late become so bois¬terous that, in order to preserve her pedicure, Angela has to swop her Jimmy Choo high heels for gumboots before bottling them.
In the late after¬noons with all the dogs locked away (for the dogs' safety!), the gate to their creche is opened and they teeter on their sharp little trotters, following Trevor and Angela to be tucked into bed in their warm and secure night quar¬ters. Their imminent release into a vast eco-¬enclosure at LAKE ELAND will leave a huge void at Brightley Farm.
A tale of the old man and the sea…
A fisherman’s catch has made history. The Lyle family has recaptured the result of an epic struggle, and framed it for the PORT SHEPSTONE MUSEUM.
Angela Kelly and Daniel Lemmer report. South Coast Herald 4 April 2008
It was an early morning in late June, 1946. Rupert Davids Lyle, like many other fishermen on the SOUTH COAST, cars bristling with fishing rods, drove out into the sunrise to head for the beach.
Rupert or ‘Pop’ as he was fondly known, was the magistrate at the PORT SHEPSTONE court. When the sardines made an appearance, all court proceedings were cancelled.
After weeks of preparation for the SARDINE RUN, armed with his rod and flax lines waxed by his own handiwork, Pop thought he was ready to reel in anything the sea had to offer.
The clear water, boiling with an enormous shoal of sardines, was outlined beyond the dirty Umzimkulu effluent, and Pop wasted no time in casting out his bait. Within minutes, some powerful force suddenly yanked on his line.
A still unsuspected Pop tried to reel in the line gently, but the hooked creature put up a tremendous fight. The flax line screamed through the agate eyes, as whatever was on the other end headed for deep water. About 200 metres of fishing line had already spun off the reel. Three hours later the unrelenting fisherman, who was almost 70 years of age at the time, was still struggling.
Rumours that he had hooked a whale spread among the onlookers.
With grim determination, the fisherman slowly reeled in his tiring opponent though the outgoing tide. Finally, spectators could see what Pop had caught. It was a huge shark.
When the exhausted shark felt the sand under its belly, it found renewed strength, and people standing knee deep in the waves fled the thrashing jaws and headed for higher ground.
Finally, a rope was tied around the shark’s tail and it was dragged onto the beach.
To make the catch official, certain procedures, including the weighing of the fish, had to be followed.
However, when Pop and his uncle went to search for the equipment necessary to weigh the shark, someone slit open its stomach and edibles and sardines removed.
Because of this, the catch was no longer eligible for registered as a record.
Nonetheless, the photograph of the catch has been donated to the Port Shepstone Museum by Mr Lyle’s grandson, Julian Lyle. Now, the memory of this spectacular catch can be admired by other fisherman.
Although not making it into the record books, the catch has now secured a small legacy of its own.
Accolades for Margate resort and manager
LA COTE D'AZUR IN MARGATE bagged two major awards from Resorts Condominiums International - Africa.
KRISSI BANZON REPORTS.
LA COTE D' AZUR, a timeshare holiday resort in MARGATE, is in the top 10 gold crown resorts of 2008, according to RCI - Africa.
Its general manager, Petra Meyer, was also named by RCI-Africa as resort manager of the year (2008).
"RCI rates the resort according to guests' feed¬back, as well as RCI representatives themselves, who stay in the resort,"-explains Mrs Meyer.
"We don't have any warning as to when these mystery guests will come to rate the resort, so it keeps us on our toes."
Mrs Meyer says that earning the award has been the fruit of many years of hard work for the resort's staff. She has been in the hospitality industry for the last 16 years, 11 of which she has worked at LA COTE D' AZUR.
"About 18 months after I took over, the resort achieved gold crown status, the highest rating a timeshare resort can earn from RCI. We have maintained that status for the last 10 years."
In the end, Mrs Meyer says that it is about giving guests what they need, entertaining them, and, above all, giving them their money's worth.
"These days, going on holiday is a luxury, so you have to give your guests value for money. You have to go back to basics, give your visitors a warm welcome and make them feel at home.
"It is the small things that make a difference. Treat guests like they are the most important people in the world. You've got to wow people. And of course, it helps if you love what you are doing. That is what hospitality is about, and sometimes people forget that."
Mrs Meyer admits that it is a huge chal¬lenge to be consistent, and staff are continu¬ously trained to make sure that they exceed people's expectations.
"We have plenty of work ahead of us this year. We have just completed our refurbishment and we are consistently upgrading everywhere we can. You've got to stay motivated and dedi¬cated in this industry, something I pass along to my STAFF."
LA COTE D' AZUR, which has been in business for more than two decades, has a four-star grading, according to the Tourism Grading Council. At any given time, almost 60 staff members are in Mrs Meyer and her manage¬ment team's capable hands. Throughout the year, occupancy at the resort is never less than 90 percent
Wednesday, 02 April 2008
Huispryse beleef 1 ste daling in 8 jaar
Elma Kloppers, Johannesburg BEELD 2 APRIL 2008
Suid-Afrika se mediaan¬huisprys het vir die eerste keer in agt jaar geval nadat hoër rentekoerse en die Na¬sionale Kredietwet die bekostigbaarheid van huisvesting merkbaar laat af¬neem het.
In Maart het die mediaanhuisprys met 5,2% op 'n jaargrondslag gedaal, nadat dit sedert Desember op 0% groei op 'n jaargrondslag gestagneer het, volgens Standard Bank se nuutste mediaan-huisprysindeks.
Dit beteken dat die mediaanhuisprys van R550 000 in Maart, 5,2% laer was as die R580 000 van Maart verlede jaar. Die mediaanhuisprys is die prys waar die helfte van die huise goedkoper is en die helfte duurder.
Mnr. Sizwe Nxedlana, eiendomsekonoom van Stan¬dard Bank, sê die mediaanhuisprysindeks is 'n maat¬staf wat neigings in huisprysgroei op 'n saamgesteldé vlak meet. Daar moet dus in gedagte géhou word dat nie alle huispryse daal nie. maar dat daar nog sterk punte in sekere gebiede kan wees waar huispryse steeds groei.
Hy skryf die afname in huisprysgroei grootliks toe aan die skerp daling in transaksie-volumes in die verbandmark, wat weerspieël dat die bekostigbaarheid van huise merkbaar afgeneem het sedert die tweede kwartaal verlede jaar.
Volgens Reserwebankdata het nuwe verbandlenings en tweede verbandlenings vir' residensiële eiendom van 'n hoogtepunt van net onder R40 miljard in Mei tot R20 miljard gehalveer in Desember.
Nxedlana sê die groei in nuwe verbande en tweede verbandlenings het van jaarlikse gemiddelde groei van 26,7% in 2006 afgeneem tot 'n skamele 6,3% in 2007.
Hy sê daar is 'n noue korrelasie tussen die groei in huispryse en die groei in be¬steebare inkomste. "Tussen 2004 en 2006 is die verhouding tussen die twee skeef¬getrek deurdat huispryse beduidend vinniger gegroei het as besteebare inkomste, wat daarop sinspeel dat huisprysgroei weggehardloop het van die huismark se onderliggende grondbeginsels.
Hy sê Standard Bank meen dat die skerp afwaartse neiging in die mediaan-huisprys 'n aanduiding is van 'n gesonde reg-stelling in die pryse van residensiële eiendom.
Absa maak later die week sy huisprysindeks bekend. Absa meet die gemiddelde huisprys in die middelsegment van die mark.
Suid-Afrika se mediaan¬huisprys het vir die eerste keer in agt jaar geval nadat hoër rentekoerse en die Na¬sionale Kredietwet die bekostigbaarheid van huisvesting merkbaar laat af¬neem het.
In Maart het die mediaanhuisprys met 5,2% op 'n jaargrondslag gedaal, nadat dit sedert Desember op 0% groei op 'n jaargrondslag gestagneer het, volgens Standard Bank se nuutste mediaan-huisprysindeks.
Dit beteken dat die mediaanhuisprys van R550 000 in Maart, 5,2% laer was as die R580 000 van Maart verlede jaar. Die mediaanhuisprys is die prys waar die helfte van die huise goedkoper is en die helfte duurder.
Mnr. Sizwe Nxedlana, eiendomsekonoom van Stan¬dard Bank, sê die mediaanhuisprysindeks is 'n maat¬staf wat neigings in huisprysgroei op 'n saamgesteldé vlak meet. Daar moet dus in gedagte géhou word dat nie alle huispryse daal nie. maar dat daar nog sterk punte in sekere gebiede kan wees waar huispryse steeds groei.
Hy skryf die afname in huisprysgroei grootliks toe aan die skerp daling in transaksie-volumes in die verbandmark, wat weerspieël dat die bekostigbaarheid van huise merkbaar afgeneem het sedert die tweede kwartaal verlede jaar.
Volgens Reserwebankdata het nuwe verbandlenings en tweede verbandlenings vir' residensiële eiendom van 'n hoogtepunt van net onder R40 miljard in Mei tot R20 miljard gehalveer in Desember.
Nxedlana sê die groei in nuwe verbande en tweede verbandlenings het van jaarlikse gemiddelde groei van 26,7% in 2006 afgeneem tot 'n skamele 6,3% in 2007.
Hy sê daar is 'n noue korrelasie tussen die groei in huispryse en die groei in be¬steebare inkomste. "Tussen 2004 en 2006 is die verhouding tussen die twee skeef¬getrek deurdat huispryse beduidend vinniger gegroei het as besteebare inkomste, wat daarop sinspeel dat huisprysgroei weggehardloop het van die huismark se onderliggende grondbeginsels.
Hy sê Standard Bank meen dat die skerp afwaartse neiging in die mediaan-huisprys 'n aanduiding is van 'n gesonde reg-stelling in die pryse van residensiële eiendom.
Absa maak later die week sy huisprysindeks bekend. Absa meet die gemiddelde huisprys in die middelsegment van die mark.
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
fab NEW place to visit
Forget about anchor tenants. Spiller's Wharf is about the finer things in life jewellery, art, antiques, gourmet cheeses, curries and really great fish dishes
SOUTH COAST HERALD 28 March 2008
Asian taste: Jin Qinglin from China tries an Indian curry at Spiller's Wharf.
Dairy delight: Laura Ie Roux displays one of the handcrafted products of the Underberg Cheesery, available at the farm's shop at Spiller's Wharf. There are many different styles and flavors to choose from as well as a variety of fruit yoghurts.
Art on show: Artists Everett Duarte and Frances Schandera are pictured with one of Frances's works, 'Driftwood' at the depictions Gallery on the first floor of Spiller's Wharf.
SOUTH COAST HERALD 28 March 2008
Asian taste: Jin Qinglin from China tries an Indian curry at Spiller's Wharf.
Dairy delight: Laura Ie Roux displays one of the handcrafted products of the Underberg Cheesery, available at the farm's shop at Spiller's Wharf. There are many different styles and flavors to choose from as well as a variety of fruit yoghurts.
Art on show: Artists Everett Duarte and Frances Schandera are pictured with one of Frances's works, 'Driftwood' at the depictions Gallery on the first floor of Spiller's Wharf.
MARDI GRAS IS A LOT OF FUN FOR EVERYBODY
MARDI GRAS IS A LOT OF FUN FOR EVERYBODY
SOUTH COAST HERALD 28 MARCH 2008
The holiday street party has been a favourite for more than a decade.
EVERYONE loves a flea market and, when a street party is thrown in for good measure, it makes for a memorable evening.
Started by the Margate Business Association more than 10 years ago, the Mardi Gras street parties are held every holiday season.
On party nights, the main street of Margate is Closed to traffic from 6 to 10pm and it becomes the venue for this great street happening. Stalls sell a wide variety of crafts, flea market, fashions and tasty food. Local restau¬rants and pubs are packed on street party nights and many of the shops extend their trading hours to cater for the crowds.
Buskers, DJs and clowns provide street entertainment and foot-tapping music gets everyone dancing in the street.
Don't miss the Mardi Gras street party next Wednesday, April 2.
SOUTH COAST HERALD 28 MARCH 2008
The holiday street party has been a favourite for more than a decade.
EVERYONE loves a flea market and, when a street party is thrown in for good measure, it makes for a memorable evening.
Started by the Margate Business Association more than 10 years ago, the Mardi Gras street parties are held every holiday season.
On party nights, the main street of Margate is Closed to traffic from 6 to 10pm and it becomes the venue for this great street happening. Stalls sell a wide variety of crafts, flea market, fashions and tasty food. Local restau¬rants and pubs are packed on street party nights and many of the shops extend their trading hours to cater for the crowds.
Buskers, DJs and clowns provide street entertainment and foot-tapping music gets everyone dancing in the street.
Don't miss the Mardi Gras street party next Wednesday, April 2.
Development golfers tee off
PORT SHEPSTONE Golf Development recently held a successful tournament.
SOUTH COAST HERALD 28 March 2008
PORT SHEPSTONE Youth Golf Development held its first mini tournament of the year at the PORT SHEPSTONE Country Club last Monday.
Boys and girls ranging in age from eight to 14 years took part in the three hole tournament.
Nokwazi Khwela won the girls' section with 25 points. Second was Azraa Bux on 27 and third Ayanda Kotta on 31. The boys' section went to Sashmiran Govender on a score of2l, with Justin Pillay on 22 in second and Sarshen Govender third on 24.
The committee is grateful to the Port Shepstone Country Club for allowing the juniors to practice and play free of charge.
Development chairman Bobby Govender said the budding golfers enjoyed the afternoon out on the golf course.
"We thank Teddy Pillay and partners from G.N Cabling and Civils for sponsoring the meals, golf caps, medals and prizes for this tournament. All teachers and parents who helped to make this first tournament a great success are also warmly thanked," he said.
Winners: Winners of the Youth Development mini tournament (from left) Ayanda Kotta, Azraa Bux, Nokwazi Khwela, Sarshen Govender, Justin Pillay and Sashmiran Govender. Sponsor Teddy Pillay is in the middle.
The Property Circle focuses on Property for Sale on The SOUTH COAST / HIBISCUS COAST Kwazulu-Natal South Africa. The Areas we cover are Shelly Beach, Uvongo, Margate, Ramsgate, Southbroom, Marina Beach, Trafalgar, Palm Beach, Munster, Glenmore, Leisure Bay and Port Edward. Our main focus is on Vacant Land for Sale along the SOUTH COAST, although we do deal with all types of Real Estate on The SOUTH COAST. Please take your time and enjoy our web site.
SOUTH COAST HERALD 28 March 2008
PORT SHEPSTONE Youth Golf Development held its first mini tournament of the year at the PORT SHEPSTONE Country Club last Monday.
Boys and girls ranging in age from eight to 14 years took part in the three hole tournament.
Nokwazi Khwela won the girls' section with 25 points. Second was Azraa Bux on 27 and third Ayanda Kotta on 31. The boys' section went to Sashmiran Govender on a score of2l, with Justin Pillay on 22 in second and Sarshen Govender third on 24.
The committee is grateful to the Port Shepstone Country Club for allowing the juniors to practice and play free of charge.
Development chairman Bobby Govender said the budding golfers enjoyed the afternoon out on the golf course.
"We thank Teddy Pillay and partners from G.N Cabling and Civils for sponsoring the meals, golf caps, medals and prizes for this tournament. All teachers and parents who helped to make this first tournament a great success are also warmly thanked," he said.
Winners: Winners of the Youth Development mini tournament (from left) Ayanda Kotta, Azraa Bux, Nokwazi Khwela, Sarshen Govender, Justin Pillay and Sashmiran Govender. Sponsor Teddy Pillay is in the middle.
The Property Circle focuses on Property for Sale on The SOUTH COAST / HIBISCUS COAST Kwazulu-Natal South Africa. The Areas we cover are Shelly Beach, Uvongo, Margate, Ramsgate, Southbroom, Marina Beach, Trafalgar, Palm Beach, Munster, Glenmore, Leisure Bay and Port Edward. Our main focus is on Vacant Land for Sale along the SOUTH COAST, although we do deal with all types of Real Estate on The SOUTH COAST. Please take your time and enjoy our web site.
Couta Classic reels ' em in
The annual
Hibberdene Couta Classic ski-boat competition hooked a record number of anglers last
weekend. Avid anglers from far and wMe converged on
the sleepy town, and enjoyed the biggest competition of its kind on the coast
SOUTH COAST HERALD 28 MARCH 2008
No rookie: 'Rookie' sets out in search of the elusive 'big one' at the recent Hibberdene Gouta Glassic.
PHOTO BY GORDON DATE
Rough ride: 'Muzungu'returns to shore through choppy waters at the
recent Hibberdene Gouta Glassic. PHOTO BY GORDON DATE
Long day: The ski-boat 'G Force', heads for the beach at last weekend's Hibberdene Gouta Glassic. PHOTO BY GORDON DATE
Riding the crest: Ski-boat 'Rookie'skims a wave after launching at last
weekend's Hibberdene Gouta Glassic. PHOTO BY GORDON DATE
Hibberdene Couta Classic ski-boat competition hooked a record number of anglers last
weekend. Avid anglers from far and wMe converged on
the sleepy town, and enjoyed the biggest competition of its kind on the coast
SOUTH COAST HERALD 28 MARCH 2008
No rookie: 'Rookie' sets out in search of the elusive 'big one' at the recent Hibberdene Gouta Glassic.
PHOTO BY GORDON DATE
Rough ride: 'Muzungu'returns to shore through choppy waters at the
recent Hibberdene Gouta Glassic. PHOTO BY GORDON DATE
Long day: The ski-boat 'G Force', heads for the beach at last weekend's Hibberdene Gouta Glassic. PHOTO BY GORDON DATE
Riding the crest: Ski-boat 'Rookie'skims a wave after launching at last
weekend's Hibberdene Gouta Glassic. PHOTO BY GORDON DATE
BARE HAND CATCH
An ordinary fishing outing for a Pumula man ended in a duel to the death with a kingfish. HANNES VAN SCHALKWYK REPORTS. SOUTH COAST HERALD 28 March 2008
FOR Andreas Fourie, it was just a normal Wednesday's fishing. The sun was shining, the waters were calm and he had just cast his line, hoping to snatch a kingfish from the murky depths off Pumula beach. As he stood on the beach, rod in hand, at 7am, something grabbed his attention. In front of him, a small moonfish jumped out of the wa¬ter, flew past his face, and disappeared. Andre, mildly startled by the little fish's aerobatic manoeuvre, returned to his fishing, only to be distracted yet again. There was a commo¬tion in the water next to him, and another fish broke the surface. Only
This time, the fish miscalculated its jump and landed on the rocks. And it wasn't another little moonfish, either.
Flapping about in front of him was a king¬fish! Andreas wasted no time, pounced on the fish like a rugby player securing a ball during a Currie Cup final, and a struggle of epic propor¬tions took place.
For a brief moment the kingfish, living up to its name, had the upper… er ... fin and managed to throw Andreas off bal¬ance. A friend rushed to his assistance and picked up his rod. The mighty tail of the king¬fish delivered devastating blows to Andreas's body, but he managed to subdue the fish with a couple of WWF-like elbow drops and back¬breakers. Finally, the fish tapped out. Andreas, against all odds, proved to be the victor.
"It was an unbeliev¬able experience. I suppose I was just in the right place at the right time, really. When I grabbed his tail for the first time, I knew there was no way I was going to let this one go.
"It put up an awesome fight, though. I couldn't hold onto it with my hands and had to wrap my legs around it to get a good grip,” explained the victorious Andreas.
Margate hosts world class air show
SOUTH Coasters and Visitors alike woke to the growl of eager engines from above, as aircraft funneled into Margate airport last Friday morning.
After months of preparation by Wozani Africa Events and its media partner, the South Coast Herald, the show was hailed as one of the best air shows in South Africa by African Pilot Weekly editor, Athol Franz.
The action kicked off last Friday night with an opening act by belly dancers from the Desert Star School of belly dancing.
Then, a great comedy show by Vodacom personality, Michael de Pinna, kept the crowds rolling with laughter at his unique dance routines and jokes. Not only did he manage to get everybody dancing to 'The Time Warp', but also proved that it's quite possible for a man to melt a woman's heart while wearing a diamond studded cat suit.
It might have been raining outside, but the atmosphere inside the tent was electric.
The next morning, early birds got themselves good seats amongst the mud pools, while Wozani Afiica staffers scrambled to organize copious amounts of sawdust, to create paths for the 7 500 strong crowd.
Although the world famous Scully Levin and his two display teams, The Flying Lions and the Gabriel Pitts, failed to attend, the rest of the lineup featured some amazing aircraft. The first display was by Team 66 of the Silver Falcons, whose glorious PC-7 MkII Astras filled the skies with a breathtaking aerobatic sequence.
There were also two Czech L-39 jets, the Oryx and Augusta of the SAAF, and the historical Dakota DC3 which provided a stunning display, both in the air and on the ground.
Brad Bennetts and Ian Billing of the Mazda Zoom-Zoom Team also wowed the crowd with their display, while the Golden Eagles parachute team undertook three breathtaking jumps.
Stalls selling food, toys and aviation-related goodies were in abundance and the 'loos' were always spotless.
At lunch time, a brainstorm by airshow broadcaster, Brian Emminis, saw the apron opened, giving the viewing public a chance' to take a closer look at the featured aircraft and meet the pilots.
The show was well attended by holidaymakers, who would otherwise have spent the day on the beach, tanning.
During the show, two couples won the a coastal scenic flip in a Cessna 206. Ronald and Louise Oelofse, of Union Motors and security guard, Victor Shusha and his friend Simo Nxumalo, won the lucky draws and enjoyed their flights last Sunday morning.
No blues for South Coast beaches.
The Property Circle focuses on Property for Sale on The SOUTH COAST / HIBISCUS COAST Kwazulu-Natal South Africa. The Areas we cover are Shelly Beach, Uvongo, Margate, Ramsgate, Southbroom, Marina Beach, Trafalgar, Palm Beach, Munster, Glenmore, Leisure Bay and Port Edward. Our main focus is on Vacant Land for Sale along the SOUTH COAST, although we do deal with all types of Real Estate on The SOUTH COAST. Please take your time and enjoy our web site.
Durban has lost four Blue Flags due to pollution, but our flags still fly high. BEVIS FAIRBROTHER REPORTS. SOUTH COAST HERALD 23 March 2008
UCH of South Africa seems to be wilt¬ing, faced with inflation, rising costs, . • pre-World Cup jitters, a mediocre
Bafana Bafana ... and Eskom, of course.
Meanwhile, our strip of coastal paradise can look forward to a host of exciting developments which should see a dramatic boost in tourism over the next few years.
Hence, a booming local economy, more jobs and a better lifestyle for all.
We have already stolen a march on our big neighbor, Durban, where the beaches came in for a pounding last week from a 'human tsunami', Alison Kelly, who represents the Danish-based Blue Flag programme.
Four of the city's beaches have lost their Blue Flag rating because of pollution, 'faecal-infested waters' and poor facilities, according to a Sunday Times report. Understandably, city manager, Mike Sutcliffe, is not too chuffed and is contesting Ms Kelly's findings. There has even been a threat to withdraw from the programme completely.
In comparison, this is what Ms Kelly has to say about Hibiscus Coast beaches:
"Hibberdene beach is doing 'fantastically' and is compliant with world class standards. The beaches of Ramsgate, Margate and Marina Beach / San Lameer are prime examples of excel¬lent. Blue Flag beaches."
Tourism KNZ’s CEO Ndabo Khoza, said he regarded Blue Flag status as a "key marketing edge".
Coupled with this, our beaches are set to improve even further as various local authori¬ties put the millions acquired from the National Disaster Fund to good use. (The exact amount of the grant is still being debated, but hold thumbs for about R64-million).
An assessment of damage to our beaches from last year's 'tides of March' has been tabled and we should see action on beaches between Scot¬tburgh and Port Edward shortly.
Much of the damage was caused because man encroached on Poseidon's territory. The report recommends we don't make the same mistake.
In a nutshell •••
Other exciting developments in the pipeline are:
* The small craft harbour at Hibberdene.
The project is still wrapped in red tape at the moment, but the politicians are making all the right noises and we should see more action soon;
* Planning for the new look Margate Airport is also well advanced and the powers-that-be hope this will be finalized by 2010, in time to benefit from the World Cup;
* A new Sports and Leisure Centre, also in time for the World Cup;
* A spruced-up Margate fishing pier, hope¬fully surrounded by clever initiatives from the private sector; .
* A new broadband ITC strategy, bringing greater connectivity to the coast;
* An Africano-Bread Franchise project, pro¬viding opportunities for many to own their own mini-bakeries,
Also on the various agendas are a small shop¬ping centre just outside Gamalakhe, and plans to utilize European building technology to tackle a severe backlog in housing, schools and clinics. 'Project Pothole' is already underway and we should have a smooth ride by June.
In general, the various agendas are thick, meetings are long and councilors and officials alike are doing their best to earn their keep.
Private enterprise •••
Private enterprise is also demonstrating its confidence in our coastline.
Development all along Marine Drive continues and new motor showrooms along the N2 opposite South Coast Mall are taking shape.
Spiller's Wharf, a spruced-up tourism facility, is already open on the banks of the Umzimkhulu River.
And the new-look Super Spar at Shelly Beach is a gem.
Experts have taken everything into account for the rehabilitation - even an anticipated rise in sea levels in decades to come.
Durban has lost four Blue Flags due to pollution, but our flags still fly high. BEVIS FAIRBROTHER REPORTS. SOUTH COAST HERALD 23 March 2008
UCH of South Africa seems to be wilt¬ing, faced with inflation, rising costs, . • pre-World Cup jitters, a mediocre
Bafana Bafana ... and Eskom, of course.
Meanwhile, our strip of coastal paradise can look forward to a host of exciting developments which should see a dramatic boost in tourism over the next few years.
Hence, a booming local economy, more jobs and a better lifestyle for all.
We have already stolen a march on our big neighbor, Durban, where the beaches came in for a pounding last week from a 'human tsunami', Alison Kelly, who represents the Danish-based Blue Flag programme.
Four of the city's beaches have lost their Blue Flag rating because of pollution, 'faecal-infested waters' and poor facilities, according to a Sunday Times report. Understandably, city manager, Mike Sutcliffe, is not too chuffed and is contesting Ms Kelly's findings. There has even been a threat to withdraw from the programme completely.
In comparison, this is what Ms Kelly has to say about Hibiscus Coast beaches:
"Hibberdene beach is doing 'fantastically' and is compliant with world class standards. The beaches of Ramsgate, Margate and Marina Beach / San Lameer are prime examples of excel¬lent. Blue Flag beaches."
Tourism KNZ’s CEO Ndabo Khoza, said he regarded Blue Flag status as a "key marketing edge".
Coupled with this, our beaches are set to improve even further as various local authori¬ties put the millions acquired from the National Disaster Fund to good use. (The exact amount of the grant is still being debated, but hold thumbs for about R64-million).
An assessment of damage to our beaches from last year's 'tides of March' has been tabled and we should see action on beaches between Scot¬tburgh and Port Edward shortly.
Much of the damage was caused because man encroached on Poseidon's territory. The report recommends we don't make the same mistake.
In a nutshell •••
Other exciting developments in the pipeline are:
* The small craft harbour at Hibberdene.
The project is still wrapped in red tape at the moment, but the politicians are making all the right noises and we should see more action soon;
* Planning for the new look Margate Airport is also well advanced and the powers-that-be hope this will be finalized by 2010, in time to benefit from the World Cup;
* A new Sports and Leisure Centre, also in time for the World Cup;
* A spruced-up Margate fishing pier, hope¬fully surrounded by clever initiatives from the private sector; .
* A new broadband ITC strategy, bringing greater connectivity to the coast;
* An Africano-Bread Franchise project, pro¬viding opportunities for many to own their own mini-bakeries,
Also on the various agendas are a small shop¬ping centre just outside Gamalakhe, and plans to utilize European building technology to tackle a severe backlog in housing, schools and clinics. 'Project Pothole' is already underway and we should have a smooth ride by June.
In general, the various agendas are thick, meetings are long and councilors and officials alike are doing their best to earn their keep.
Private enterprise •••
Private enterprise is also demonstrating its confidence in our coastline.
Development all along Marine Drive continues and new motor showrooms along the N2 opposite South Coast Mall are taking shape.
Spiller's Wharf, a spruced-up tourism facility, is already open on the banks of the Umzimkhulu River.
And the new-look Super Spar at Shelly Beach is a gem.
Experts have taken everything into account for the rehabilitation - even an anticipated rise in sea levels in decades to come.
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