VARS_SEPTEMBER 2023

Drakenstein Municipality’s official e-newsletter Drakenstein Munisipaliteit se amptelike e-nuusbrief Incwadi yendaba yombane yoMasipala wase Drakenstein

SEPTEMBER 2023

MUNICIPAL NEWS

REGULARS 4 Editor's Letter This month, we are rediscovering the tourism and heritage gems of Drakenstein. 28 IKomiti Ezimiseleyo YakwaWadi 5 Iza Notshintsho Kuluntu lwayo Table of Contents

20 A Vision for Change: 'Snare Free' Initiative Protects Our Wildlife Drakenstein and the Western Cape region are grappling with a serious threat – the illegal practice of setting snares to capture animals. ALL ABOUT SERVICE DELIVERY 6 Drakenstein Municipality First in Africa to Implement Pioneering Green Electricity Technology by Schneider Electric Drakenstein Municipality has become the first municipality in Africa and South Africa and the third in the world to implement specific, cutting-edge green electricity technology.

BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT

10 Step into Paarl-Wellington: Rediscover Tourism Gems in Your Own Backyard Step into Paarl-Wellington, where adventure, nature, and culture converge to create an unforgettable experience! 12 Sake-onderhoud: Laborie Vir plaaslike en internasionale besoekers dra Laborie se historiese nalatenskap by tot die unieke aantrekkingskrag wat hierdie wynlandbestemming bied. 22 Meesterbakker by Babylonstoren Peachy Jacobs, die meesterbakker by Babylonstoren in Simondium, val heel moontlik in die brooddronk kategorie, veral wanneer sy agter die oond bedrywig is en haar spogbrode optower.

VARS | September

EXPLORE DRAKENSTEIN 14 'Being a Citizen of Paarl-Wellington Makes Me So Proud’ – Actor Hein Poole

The Municipality has partnered with a couple of our resident celebrities to share with us why they love our picture-perfect destination. 26 Clay Café Paarl: Die Wynland se Jongste Uithangplek vir Plaaslike Picasso's Vir diegene wat hul kunssinnige kant oor ‘n goeie koppie koffie of glas wyn wil ontdek, behoort die Paarl se splinternuwe Clay Café heel bo-aan hul lysie te wees.

SPORTS

16 Rieldans – Gooi Mielies! Rieldans is kotiljons, dis stoftrap en tiekiedraai, dis wip en wikkel, dis boude skud, dis askoek slaan! 19 Sports Calendar See what’s happening this month!

OPPORTUNITIES

30 Personnel Vacancies Find out more about personnel vacancies. 31 Tenders See our available tenders.

COMMUNITY VOICES

24 IMbekweni Eco Club: Ukukhulisa Uluntu Olunabemi Abahlonipha Indalo Esingqongileyo

VARS | September

We Cherish Tourism and Heritage

Drakenstein boasts a vibrant tourism offering and a rich cultural heritage – both enriching our economy and the lives of our residents. This month, we are rediscovering the tourism and heritage gems of Paarl-Wellington – your local hub for wellness, sports, and adventure. Join us as we cherish the treasure nestled right here in our own backyard. From Wellington’s immersive Fynbos Experience and hiking or mountain biking around Paarl Mountain to the gastronomic adventure that awaits at Mbekweni’s vibey shisanyama eatery Chippa’s Place; from our buildings’ beautiful architectural styles revealing tales of the Gregorian, Victorian, and Cape Dutch eras to savouring the moment in Paarl’s grandiose KWV Cathedral Cellar – Vars steps into Paarl-Wellington and finds out why it is a haven for domestic leisure tourism . In line with our vision of growing a city of excellence, Drakenstein Municipality is proudly embracing sustainability and top-notch service – and it shows! On 14 September 2023, we made history as the first African and South African municipality and third worldwide to adopt specific cutting-edge green electricity technology by global energy management leader Schneider Electric, which will reduce our carbon footprint. We are also implementing an innovative electrical monitoring system, which enables us to find and fix electrical problems faster. In short, this means the welcome relief of less downtime for our customers. Supporting wildlife conservation, the Snare Free initiative aims to protect local predators such as caracals and leopards from snaring incidents. Lindsay Lewis from our Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve explains how we can all play our part should we come across a wild animal in distress. Summertime beckons at the Laborie Wine Estate in Paarl , one of the few wine estates located right in the middle of town! In addition to its exceptional wines, Laborie offers a variety of experiences. You can choose between a tranquil picnic or taking on one of the estate's exciting mountain bike trails. At Laborie, you are spoilt for choice! This month, Vars features beloved performing artist, scriptwriter, and entrepreneur Hein Poole to hear why he is proud to be called a citizen of Paarl-Wellington. We introduce you to Peachy Jacobs , the inspiring master bread baker at Babylonstoren in Simondium. Read about the beginnings of her baking passion and gain insights as she offers advice to aspiring bakers striving for excellence in heir craft.

VARS | September

A robust tourism industry is crucial to Drakenstein’s financial health – and the well-being of our local communities. Paarl-Wellington’s natural beauty and heritage treasures are second to none, and we must protect them and our environment for generations to come. “ „ - Executive Mayor, Alderman Conrad Poole

Be sure to make the Clay Café Paarl your next must-visit spot. Whether you are looking to unwind with coffee or wine or unleash your creativity, this vibrant spot has it all. Visitors of all ages can make lasting memories here. Business partner Tamsin Snyman extends her heartfelt thanks for the warm Drakenstein reception and the support she and her staff have been receiving from the local community since they have opened their doors. The Nederburg Vastrappers , a lively ensemble from Nederburg Primary, are enthusiastic “rieldansers” with incredible talent, dedicated to preserving our heritage. “Rieldans” is an ancient celebratory dance deeply rooted in Khoisan culture. We showcase the Vastrappers’ love for this traditional dance form and its meaningful impact on our local community. In this month's community spotlight, we focus on the Mbekweni Eco Club . This remarkable project is nurturing a community of environmentally conscious young learners who are embracing their roles as caretakers of our planet. Vars interviewed Vincent Nteta , a co-founder of the club, who shares insights into their praiseworthy programmes. In our regular ward committee insert, we feature Ward 5 . Guided by Councillor Thobani Mooi , this ward is supported by a group of dedicated committee members who bring change to their community. We hope you enjoy this edition as much as we did putting it together! Please share your impressions of the stories with us at vars@drakenstein.gov.za .

From the Vars editorial team

VARS | September

Drakenstein Municipality First in Africa to Implement Pioneering Green Electricity Technology by Schneider Electric

Cllr Lorenzo Arendse, Mayoral Committee Member: Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Drakenstein Municipality, officially opening the launch event.

This RM AirSeT project, which also brings significant digital connectivity and safety benefits, was launched in Paarl on 14 September 2023. While the Municipality’s previous electricity communication network system only allowed for radio frequency communication, the latest upgrades will communicate through wireless ethernet or fibre. “We are extremely proud and excited to embark on this journey with Schneider Electric,” says Alderman Conrad Poole, Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality. “Sustainability is in the DNA of our organisation and our community, and this project is a perfect fit for our sustainability vision and best practices.

Drakenstein Municipality has become the first municipality in Africa and South Africa and the third in the world to implement specific, cutting-edge green electricity technology. It has adopted Schneider Electric ’s green RM AirSeT air-powered ring main unit, which will reduce the Municipality’s carbon footprint by using pure air instead of SF6 gas.

@drakensteinmunicipality @DrakensteinMunicipality

VARS | September

“

Drakenstein Municipality has taken a forward-looking approach to invest in this kind of sustainable and digital technology right now, as we believe this is what South Africa needs at this point in time for social governance. We need this shift in local government. In my opinion, it’s a trail-blazing move.

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It underscores our ongoing commitment to excellent service delivery while ensuring a sustainable future and protected environment for the coming generations of Drakenstein. “This project comes at a time when South Africa faces immense energy challenges. Being an early adopter of this pioneering technology will enable us to share lessons learnt with our peers. As the largest Western Cape municipality (outside Cape Town) and one of the most financially sound, well-governed, and stable municipalities in South Africa, we are honoured to now also be leading by example in this regard,” says Alderman Poole. “Drakenstein Municipality is undoubtedly leading the way in establishing a modern, digitised infrastructure that enables it to remotely monitor equipment like the RM AirSeT switchgear which, in turn, allows for expanded network visibility, as well as preventative and proactive maintenance and problem-solving,” explains Vladimir Milovanovic, Vice President: Power Systems for Schneider Electric Anglophone Africa. “Furthermore, by implementing green technology such as our SF6-free switchgear, the Municipality is undoubtedly showing its commitment to mitigating its environmental footprint whilst benefiting from improved operational performance and efficiency.”

Leon Laing, Manager: Planning and Customer Services, Electro-Technical Engineering, Drakenstein Municipality, and Cllr Lorenzo Arendse, Mayoral Committee Member: Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, viewing the new RM AirSet.

Drakenstein Municipality is also partnering with global energy management leader Schneider Electric and system integration partner Altek to implement a groundbreaking electrical monitoring system, further benefiting the area’s residents and businesses by improving service delivery. This collaboration will enable the Municipality to find and fix electrical problems faster and maintain and safeguard equipment better.

VARS | September

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The beauty of it is that Drakenstein Municipality can now guarantee our residents and businesses less downtime.

The Municipality, serving a population of 305 281, will gradually replace its current monitoring system with Schneider Electric’s ETAP system, incorporating a range of features that will revolutionise how Drakenstein Municipality manages its electrical infrastructure. Three of the Municipality’s altogether 36 substations are already online; in the 2023/24 financial year, eight more substations will be brought online.

“This is the part that makes me really excited,” says Alderman Poole. “The beauty of it is that Drakenstein Municipality can now guarantee our residents and businesses less downtime. Our community, like the rest of South Africa, is loadshedding fatigued. Not only does Eskom loadshedding mean hours of inconvenient outages, but it also creates a breeding ground for criminals to steal cables and damage infrastructure.

VARS | September

“Another significant feature of ETAP includes technology-driven preventative maintenance of equipment, which will better safeguard our infrastructure through a heat-triggered alarm system. This is made possible by digital twin technology that uses historical and current data to simulate maintenance and upgrades to the system. This will ensure that when we perform maintenance, no unnecessary unplanned system

Cllr Lorenzo Arendse, Mayoral Committee Member: Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Drakenstein Municipality, and Vladimir Milovanovic, VP: Power Systems, Schneider Electric Anglophone Africa

tripping will occur,” explains Herman Rossouw, Senior Engineering Technician at the Municipality.

The Executive Mayor concludes: “Drakenstein Municipality has taken a forward-looking approach to invest in this kind of sustainable and digital technology right now, as we believe this is what South Africa needs at this point in time for social governance. We need this shift in local government. In my opinion, it’s a trail-blazing move.”

In addition, it puts tremendous pressure on our sanitation, water, and electricity infrastructure. Smart technology to assist us in dealing with these challenges could not have come at a more opportune time. With this added tool in our management toolbox, we can now raise the service delivery bar even higher.” The fact that Drakenstein Municipality already had a solid fibre communication network in place made it more than ready for this new technology. “The new ETAP system integrates well with our geographic mapping system and offers many exciting features, such as real-time insights into the power grid. This will enable us to swiftly pinpoint the precise areas affected by power outages, which will drastically cut down on fault finding and repair times, as well as man hours. What is more, is that ETAP allows remote monitoring on various devices,” says Leon Laing, Manager: Planning and Customer Services at the Electro-Technical Engineering division of Drakenstein Municipality.

“

Sustainability is in the DNA of our organisation and our community, and this project is a perfect fit for our sustainability vision and best practices.

„

VARS | September

Step into Paarl-Wellington: Rediscover Tourism Gems in Your Own Backyard

This September, we are celebrating both tourism and heritage – and there is no better time to rediscover the treasures nestled right here in our own backyard. Step into Paarl-Wellington, where adventure, nature, and culture converge to create an unforgettable experience! Paarl-Wellington is a haven for domestic leisure tourism and boasts an array of escapes that offer respite from the daily grind. The allure of road trips, staycations, and weekend getaways beckons! Picture this: a brisk hike up Paarl Mountain or a venture to Doolhof Wine Estate in Wellington, followed by a leisurely breakfast or wine tasting at a local vineyard. The options are abundant, catering to every taste – whether you are a thrill seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a cultural explorer. Chrismaré Carse, Senior Tourism Officer at Drakenstein Municipality, says: Follow us

“September is Tourism Month in South Africa, and on 27 September, we also celebrate World Tourism Day. The focus is on domestic tourism, of which one of the most significant advantages is that it promotes local travel. Domestic tourism presents powerful business opportunities for destinations such as Paarl- Wellington. The Municipality’s Economic Development and Tourism division promotes leisure tourism through day trips in Paarl, Wellington, and surrounds. Our scenic region invites locals to explore their own backyard.”

@DrakensteinMunicipality

@drakensteinmunicipality

VARS | September

So, what are some of the attractions that we market? Let's list a few gems: the immersive Fynbos Experience hosted by Giselle Courtney in Wellington, the winning recipe of Simondium’s Babylonstoren , Paarl East’s hidden heritage treasures, the emblematic Afrikaanse Taalmonument , the towering Paarl Rock, and the serene Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve. And that's only the start! Gastronomic adventures await at spots such as the evergreen Noop and new MoM Café in Paarl, the vibey shisanyama eatery Chippa’s Place in Mbekweni, family favourite The Stone Kitchen on Dunstone in Wellington, and the cosy Stoep Restaurant at Laborie , Paarl. There is also the renowned James Sedgewick Distillery in Wellington, and don’t forget about Paarl’s grandiose and historic KWV Cathedral Cellar . For the daring souls, the area offers ample adventure. Soar with Winelands Paragliding , explore the area through e-bike rentals or our myriad of mountain bike trails, or conquer new heights (literally) through abseiling. Nature enthusiasts are spoiled for choice, with hiking trails stretching from Paarl Rock and Paarl Mountain to Rhebokskloof and beyond, linking to the Spice Route Destination , Limietberg Nature Reserve , Paarl Arboretum , and the Ashia Cheetah Sanctuary .

If history and culture are more your thing, there is so much to do. Meander around the heritage sites of Paarl West, Paarl East, and Wellington, learn more about the origin of Afrikaans at the Afrikaanse Taalmonument and Museum , or page through history at the Paarl and Wellington Museums. The Drakenstein towns’ beautiful architectural styles reveal tales of different eras, such as Gregorian, Victorian, and Cape Dutch. We extend an open invitation to local businesses and communities to join us in making Paarl-Wellington’s authentic domestic leisure tourism offering even more captivating. Reach out to us if you are eager to showcase your offerings or wish to participate in our year-round information-sharing sessions. Contact Chrismaré Carse at 021 807 7744 or Chrismare.Carse@drakenstein.gov.za .

Indoors, or outdoors – there is much to do and see in the area.

Paarl-Wellington is a haven for domestic leisure tourism and boasts an array of escapes.

VARS | September

Sake-onderhoud: Laborie

Eers was daar die Hugenote In 1691 is Laborie aan die Franse Hugenoot, Isaac Taillefert, toegestaan. Binne slegs sewe jaar het die nuwe eienaar en sy seun, Jean Taillefert, reeds wyn van so ‘n goeie gehalte gemaak dat hulle dit aan besoekers kon voorsit. Met hul kennis van Franse wingerdboutegnieke het die Taillefert-familie ‘n stewige grondslag vir die wingerde en wynproduksie op Laborie gelê. Nou, meer as 300 jaar later, pluk Laborie steeds die vrugte hiervan.

Waar in die wêreld kry jy ‘n wynlandgoed reg in die middel van die dorp waarvan jy die wingerde sommerso van die hoofstraat af kan bewonder? In die Paarl is dit die Laborie-wynlandgoed wat só beïndruk. As jy eers by die hekke ingery het, sal jy nooit raai jy is in die middedorp nie. Dié wynplaas het ‘n ryk geskiedenis en is wyd en syd bekend. Dit is een van Drakenstein se gesogste attraksies wat nie misgeloop moet word nie!

Die Laborie-wynlandgoed speel ‘n deurslaggewende rol in werkskepping in die Drakenstein-streek.

Dié wynplaas het ‘n ryk geskiedenis en is wyd en syd bekend.

VARS | September

Laborie bied ‘n wye reeks ervarings aan.

Besoek Laborie vandag Vir plaaslike en internasionale besoekers dra Laborie se historiese nalatenskap by tot die unieke aantrekkingskrag wat hierdie wynlandbestemming bied. Die erfenisryke agtergrond vertel die storie van die plaas en eiesoortige kultuur. Tydens ‘n besoek aan Laborie kan ‘n mens ook meer van die streek se wynmaaktradisies leer. Die plaas bied ‘n wye reeks ervarings aan die besoeker, wat natuurlik hul wyne insluit, maar ook veel meer. Begin dus met ‘n wynproe! Daar is ook ‘n plaas deli, restaurante en pieknieks. As jy ‘n Fikse Fanie of Energieke Ella is, wag daar ‘n paar lekker bergfietsroetes op jou. Jy kan ook op Laborie – in luukse dubbelkamers of ‘n verskeidenheid suites – oornag. As jy onlangs die ja-woord gevra of gegee het, is daar ‘n trouvenue – wat verblyf insluit – om te oorweeg. Jeanne Carstens, wat die bemarking van Laborie behartig, sê die plaas se veelsydige attraksies bied iets vir elkeen. “Hierdie dinamiese reeks ervarings posisioneer Laborie as ‘n gesogte bestemming wat die plaaslike toerismesektor verbeter deur ‘n breër demografie van besoekers te lok.” Terselfdertyd moedig dit langer verblyf in die Paarl aan.

Plaaslik is smaaklik Laborie is trots daarop dat hul restaurante sover as moontlik plaaslike bestanddele gebruik. Hul span glo dat dit nie net die besoeker se “smaak-reis” verbeter nie, maar ook die plaaslike ekonomie ondersteun en volhoubare praktyke bevorder. Deur met nabygeleë produsente saam te werk, stimuleer dié landgoed ekonomiese groei en krimp sy koolstofvoetspoor deur nie onnodige vervoer te gebruik nie. Dít lei weer tot die bevordering van die Drakenstein-gemeenskap. Die Laborie-wynlandgoed speel ook ‘n deurslaggewende rol in werkskepping in die Drakenstein-streek. Aangesien die landgoed ‘n verskeidenheid ervarings aanbied, benodig hulle juis ‘n diverse arbeidsmag wat tot meer werksgeleenthede, tot voordeel van die breër gemeenskap, lei. Kom kuier saam By Laborie ervaar jy die ritme van ‘n wynplaas terwyl jy omring word deur wingerde en die Paarlberg op jou neerkyk. Die natuurskoon van die omgewing stem besoekers tot rustigheid. Kyk wat daar alles te doen, ervaar, eet en drink is by laborieestate.co.za

VARS | September

Hein Poole from Wellington is an all-rounder entertainer.

‘Being a Citizen of Paarl-Wellington Makes Me So Proud’ – Actor Hein Poole

Born and bred in Drakenstein, Hein Poole has made his mark as an all-rounder entertainer, showcasing his versatility as a performing artist, scriptwriter, and entrepreneur. A proud alumnus of St Albans Primary in Wellington and New Orleans Secondary in Paarl, he has been performing since the age of 14. Hein is perhaps best known for his appearances on local TV screens; he starred in several South African series such as Sterlopers , Scandal , Arendsvlei , Suidooster, and many more. However, his passion extends beyond on-screen performances, and he also offers educational theatre experiences to schools.

Hein is a proud community member and believes one should take ownership of your environment and report issues. He uses Drakenstein Municipality’s SeeClickFix app regularly and has been impressed with the way it streamlines non-emergency issue reporting in the area, as well as the quick responses. While his performances might take him all over South Africa, for Hein, “there is no place quite like Paarl-Wellington”. He loves the unique warmth and charm the area holds. Most of all, he is proud to be a citizen of Paarl-Wellington because it is such a welcoming place.

@DrakensteinMunicipality

@drakensteinmunicipality

VARS | September

“

I love the open spaces. Wherever you move, people are so friendly, and it’s safe. And that is what life is about, you know, about the valuable things.

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Hein is a proud community member and believes one should take ownership of your environment.

VARS | September

Die Nederburg Vastrappers is ‘n dinamiese rieldansgroep van die Paarl.

Rieldans – Gooi Mielies!

Rieldans is kotiljons, dis stoftrap en tiekiedraai, dis wip en wikkel, dis boude skud, dis askoek slaan! Dié dans word gekenmerk deur matelose energie, alles in ‘n gees van kappityt! Dis die ene lewensvreugde.

Die Afrikaanse Taal- en Kultuurvereniging (ATKV) beskryf rieldans as die oudste danssoort in Suider-Afrika omdat die hedendaagse vorm direk na die Khoi-San, die eerste bewoners van die streek, herlei kan word. Destyds het die Khoi-San na ‘n goeie oes of jagtog, sowel as wanneer daar feesgevier is, in sirkels om die vuur gedans. Baie van die rielpassies wat vandag steeds uitgevoer word, word ook in die vorm van ‘n sirkel gedoen.

@DrakensteinMunicipality

@drakensteinmunicipality

VARS | September

In Afrikaans het die dans die rieldans geword vanweë die ooreenkoms met die Skotse riel of “reel”. Hulle hét dit, gebore mét dit! Die Nederburg Vastrappers is ‘n dinamiese rieldansgroep van die Nederburg Primêre Skool in die Paarl. Dié groep is baie talentvol en hét hulle gees?! Hulle naam vang wat hulle doen, mooi vas. Bygesê, hulle kan nie net vastrap nie, maar ook los trap wanneer die storie wat hulle met hul dans uitbeeld dit vereis. By die onlangse Presidensiële Imbizo in die Paarl het die Nederburg Vastrappers vir groot vermaak gesorg en die Presidensiële afvaardiging beïndruk met hul energieke rieldanspassies én vlugvoetigheid.

Dié groep is baie talentvol en hulle het gees.

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Hulle kan nie net vastrap nie, maar ook los trap wanneer die storie wat hulle met hul dans uitbeeld dit vereis.

VARS | September

Die Nederburg Vastrappers het in 2018 ontstaan met slegs een span. Sedertdien het hulle gegroei tot vier spanne wat aan kompetisies deelneem om ondervinding op te doen en hul dansvaardighede te slyp. Al die spanlede is passievol oor rieldans. Op 14 Mei 2023 het die Nederburg Vastrappers hul eerste Rieldansfees gehou. Dit was ‘n baie suksesvolle geleentheid waaraan agt spanne deelgeneem het. Op 9 September 2023 was dit weer tyd vir ‘n plesierige opskop en die tweede Rieldansfees is gehou.

Soos hulle sê: Hulle hét dit, gebore mét dit!

Kyk hier hoe die Nederburg Vastrappers dit uitkap terwyl hulle onder andere diere naboots!

VARS | September

Me. Myrtle Apollis, Skoolhoof, Nederburg Primêre Skool

Die Nederburg Vastrappers is ‘n dinamiese rieldansgroep van die Paarl.

Drakenstein Sports Calendar

Boland Race of Truth

The Pink Xtreme

Date: 1 October 2023 Location: Hoër Landbouskool Boland, Paarl

Date: 7 October 2023 Location: Vrede en Lust Wine Estate, Simondium

The Diemersfontein Pinotage Trail Run

Weekend Warrior

Date: 8 October 2023 Location: Diemersfontein Wines, Wellington

Date: 14 October 2023 Location: Doolhof Wine Estate, Wellington

Cape Mini Munga 12 Hr Ride (MTB)

The Inaugural Boland Landbou Trail Run / MTB

Date: 14 October 2023 Location: Spice Route Destination, Paarl

Date: 21 October 2023 Location: Doolhof Wine Estate, Wellington

Run The Vines #10

PPA One Tonner

Date: 28 October 2023 Location: Perdeberg Wines, Paarl

Date: 5 November 2023 Location: Nelson Wine Estate, Paarl

VARS | September

A Vision for Change: 'Snare Free' Initiative Protects Our Wildlife Drakenstein and the Western Cape region are grappling with a serious threat – the illegal practice of setting snares to capture animals. While the intention might be to catch game meat species, such as small antelope and porcupines, these snares also endanger predators such as caracals and leopards, necessitating action to safeguard the borders of Paarl Mountain and surrounding private properties.

The Cape Leopard Trust , together with CapeNature , Kogelberg Biosphere , Wildlife Forensic Academy , and the Cape of Good Hope SPCA , launched the Western Cape Snare Response Plan on 1 August 2023 – the first-ever comprehensive snare response plan for the Western Cape. This initiative focuses on providing a coordinated response to snared wildlife incidents. Aptly named “Snare Free”, the programme also offers improved training, data collection, and awareness about snaring in the Western Cape. Read more here , and watch an overview here (warning: not for sensitive viewers). Vars spoke to Lindsay Lewis, Nature Conservationist at the Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve, who urges the public to play their part and spread the word. “The further we can share the message, the more information we can hopefully gather through the ‘Snare Free’ app and hotline.

An example of a wire snare. ©Cape Leopard Trust

@DrakensteinMunicipality

@drakensteinmunicipality

VARS | September

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“Drakenstein Municipality fully supports the #snarefree initiative and had the privilege of being involved in it from its inception. Last year, we conducted a series of patrols around Paarl Mountain’s private farms with the Cape Leopard Trust and Global Conservation Forces field rangers. During these patrols, we encountered several concerning snaring incidents,” says Lindsay. The Municipality encourages Drakenstein’s residents to join in and play your part in protecting our magnificent wildlife. Your role in wildlife protection If you encounter a live wild animal caught in a snare, call the Snare Free Hotline at 076 127 8485 . • Maintain a safe distance from the animal, minimise noise, and prevent others from entering the area. • Be prepared to provide the hotline operator with vital information, including the accurate location (preferably GPS

The further we can share the message, the more information we can hopefully gather through the ‘Snare Free’ app and hotline.

„

coordinates), a description of the animal (if possible), and your contact number. In the unfortunate event of discovering empty snares or a deceased animal caught in a snare, take a photograph and report it to the Cape Leopard Trust's online data portal , app.capeleopard.org.za . You will need to provide the location details and a photograph. Please carefully remove and responsibly dispose of the snares to prevent their re-use.

Training conservation officials in snare detection and removal. ©Cape Leopard Trust

Visit snarefree.co.za for more information and resources.

VARS | September

Meesterbakker by Babylonstoren

Die ou Afrikaanse idioom, om brooddronk te wees, beteken om uitgelate of bly te wees. Peachy Jacobs, die meesterbakker by Babylonstoren in Simondium, val heel moontlik in die brooddronk kategorie, veral wanneer sy agter die oond bedrywig is en haar spogbrode optower. By Babylonstoren – sowel as in die groter Drakenstein – floreer bekwame professionele persone met verskillende vaardighede oor verskeie dissiplines heen. Hul meesterbakker is

Wat haar ouma haar geleer het, het sy – soos hulle sê – op haar brood gesmeer, oftewel ter harte geneem. Die geur van varsgebakte brood, botter en konfyt was vir Peachy die inspirasie om eendag haar eie brood te verdien deur brood te bak. En ook nie net sommer brood nie, dis behoorlike ontwerpersbrode! Sy bak ook pasteitjies, sjokolade-croissants en knoffelbrode, om maar net ‘n paar te noem. Bakstaan agter die broodoond Vóór Babylonstoren was Peachy vir 13 jaar by Môreson Wines in Riebeeck Kasteel agter die broodoond, hoewel sy ook ander verpligtinge hier vervul het. Dit was egter vir haar meer vervullend om met gebak te werk. Sowat agt jaar gelede is sy deur Babylonstoren genooi om by hul span aan te sluit. Aanvanklik het sy by die wynproelokaal gewerk, maar toe die geleentheid hom voordoen om by die bakspan aan te sluit, was sy tog te in haar noppies.

‘n sprekende voorbeeld hiervan. Ouma is haar inspirasie

Dit is Peachy se ouma wat haar geïnspireer het om brood te bak. As klein dogtertjie het sy haar ouma dopgehou terwyl sy drie keer per week in hul kombuis brood gebak het. Haar ouma het haar altyd nader geroep en stap vir stap verduidelik wat sy doen. Dan het sy gesê: “Peachy, ek wil hê jy moet eendag in my voetspore volg.”

@DrakensteinMunicipality

@drakensteinmunicipality

VARS | September

Jou plantjie (of “starter”) wat as rysmiddel dien vir die brood is ook baie belangrik. By Babylonstoren is hul plantjie al 10 jaar oud. Haar raad aan aspirant-bakkers, of individue wat wil uitblink in hul gekose veld, is om nooit op te gee nie. “Onthou dat jy altyd uit kritiek kan leer.” ‘n Nuutjie op Babylonstoren is ‘n appeloorskiet- suurdeegbrood wat uiters gewild is; dit word aanlyn en op die plaas verkoop. Toeriste, plaaslik en internasionaal, kom ook keer op keer terug vir dié plaas se smaaklike gorgonzola-en-peer-brood. Peachy raai voornemende besoekers aan Babylonstoren aan om hulself te vergewis van watter seisoen dit is. Clivia-seisoen is een van die hoogtepunte op die plaas. En as die olywe ryp is, word daar olyf-baguette gebak!

Deesdae span meesterbakker Peachy al haar kragte in om die dag se baksel suurdeegbrode gereed te hê. Dit kos vroeg opstaan om alles te bak wat op die plaas benodig word. Warm uit die oond gaan die gebak na die plaaswinkel, wynproelokaal, en die Greenhouse- en Babel-restaurante. ‘Toets jou resep 90 keer’ Om haar vaardighede met die gemeenskap te deel, is vir Peachy een van die gunsteling- aspekte van haar werk. Dis vir haar belangrik om dit wat sy weet aan ander oor te dra. Broodbakseminare word twee keer per jaar by Babylonstoren aangebied, en sommige entoesiastiese bakkers keer elke jaar terug. Peachy raak nooit moeg daarvoor om suurdeegbrood te bak nie. As sy één wenk vir potensiële bakkers kan gee, is dit om jou resep “90 keer te toets”.

Vir meer, besoek: https://babylonstoren.com/

Peachy Jacobs takes us through her passion for baking, a journey that began in her grandmother's cosy kitchen when she was just a little girl. Today, she proudly serves as the head baker at Babylonstoren in Simondium, where her skills and expertise shine through in every loaf of bread she bakes.

Take a look.

VARS | September

IMbekweni Eco Club: Ukukhulisa Uluntu Olunabemi Abahlonipha Indalo Esingqongileyo

Embindini waseMbekweni, kwavela iphulo elibalulekileyo. IMbekweni Eco Club ikhula njengebhakane yemfundo nezenzo zezendalo esingqongileyo, izilungelelanisa neenzame ze United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030 . Imfundo exhobisela ikamva eliluhlaza Eli phulo likubaluleka kunje likhokelwa nguVincent Nteta, omnye wabaseki bale klabhu. Njengomlungelelanisi, ukhokele uluhlu lwezenzo ezingapheleli nje ekufundiseni malunga nemiba yendalo esingqongileyo, koko ekwaxhobisa abafundi bale ndawo ukuba babe ngamatshantliziyo endalo esingqongileyo kwiindawo zabo. IRiver Health Monitoring Programme, elinye lamaphulo aqalwe yile klabhu, yijoliswe ngokukodwa kubafundi bamabanga

aphakamileyo ukususela kwibanga lesi8 ukuya kwele10. Eli phulo ligxile kwizikolo ezithathu zamabanga aphakamileyo zale ndawo yaye lixoxa nabantu abatsha ukuze baqonde impilo yoMlambo iBerg kunye nemilanjana yawo. Indlela enkaloninzi Ezi nzame zeMbekweni Eco Club zezenguqu yaye zibetha zidlule kwimfundo zize ziquke iiprojekthi ezenziwa yile klabhu nezidala ifuthe elicacileyo. Iphulo lokucoca licela amavolontiya oluntu ukwenzela ukuqinisekisa ngokulondolozwa kwendalo elungqongileyo. Isebenzisana nezikolo zendawo, le klabhu ityala izitiya ezikhuthaza

ukutya okusempilweni, ngelixa ihlupheza nokuthatha uxanduva lokukhathalela umhlaba.

Iphulo lokuCoca, elingoyena ndoqo wale klabhu lizama ukuba likwakhuthaza uluntu ukuba lungayilahli nje nakanjani inkukuma.

@drakensteinmunicipality

@DrakensteinMunicipality

VARS | September

Co-founder Vincent Nteta gives an insightful overview of the Mbekweni Eco Club and shares details about the club's activities, including river health monitoring, clean-up campaigns, and quality education initiatives.

Press play to see what they get up to.

UVincent ugxininisa iziphumo zexesha elide zezenzo ezifana nokuba izinto ezimdaka zisuke emifuleni ziye kulwandle lweAtlantic. Ngokukhuthaza ulwazi, le klabhu izamela ukhuthaza ukuzibophelela ngokubambisana ekukhuseleni indalo esingqongileyo.

Ukubumbana noluntu nangaphaya koko

IMbekweni Eco Club ayisebenzi yodwa; isebenza ngobambiswano. Ukusingatha imiba ebalulekileyo yobomi bale mihla, le klabhu ingena kwimiba yezothutho nokusetyenziswa kwamandla ombane, nalapho izama ukunciphisa ukukhutshwa kwekhabhoni nokukhuthaza iindlela ezilondoloza indalo. Ngokuqinisekileyo, imali iye yaba ngumngeni, ngokukodwa ngexesha lobhubhane weKhovidi-19. Noko kunjalo, le klabhu iye yagqama ngokunyamezela, yagcina ubambiswano noomasipala, iSebe lezamanzi noGutyulo, kunye necandelo labucala. Zibandakanye nale ntshukumo Ngenxa yezi nkqubo ziza notshintsho kunye nokuzimisela kwayo, iMbekweni Eco Club ikhulisa uluntu lwabemi abakhathelele indalo nabagcina indima yabo njengabakhankaseli beplanethi nabakhuseli bayo ukulungiselela izizukulwana ezizayo. Le klabhu ivule izandla isamkela nabani na ozibandakanya nalo mbono. Abantu bangaba yinxalenye yale nqwelo yotshintsho ngokuncokola noVincent kuFacebook nakuInstagram kungenjalo baqhagamshelane naye ngqo apha 078 877 8576 okanye apha info@mbekoecoclub.org .

Ukubumbana ekudaleni uphuhliso oluzinzileyo

Iinjongo zeMbekweni Eco Club zibondelwe kwiiSDG ezili17 zeUN. UVincent ucacisa ukubaluleka kwemfundo yokwenza, efana nokuthatha abafundi abakhuphe eklasini ukuze baye kuyibamba ngesandla indalo ebangqongileyo. Le ndlela ihambelana neNjongo yesi4 – yemfundo esemgangathweni – eqinisekisa ukuba ulwazi olufunyenweyo ludlulela ngaphaya kwethiyori yaye lushiya umzila obonakalayo ezingqondweni zesizukulwana esitsha. Iinjongo zale klabhu zinkulu kodwa ziyafikeleleka. Bazimisele ukuba kuthi kufika u2030 le nkqubo ibe sele ifuthele abafundi abangama5 000, iphuhlisa ubomi babo ngolwazi lwendalo esingqongileyo noxanduva lokuyikhathalela. Ngokulinganisa nokuphonononga iziphumo zale nkqubo yayo, le klabu iqinisekisa ukuba iinjongo zayo ziba sisiphumo sotshintsho olubonakalayo.

VARS | September

Clay Café Paarl: Die Wynland se Jongste Uithangplek vir Plaaslike Picasso's

Paarl-Wellington is welbekend vir sy prentjiemooi wynplase en pryswenner- restaurante wat aan besoekers én inwoners ‘n mengelmoes ervarings bied. Vir diegene wat egter hul kunssinnige kant oor ‘n goeie koppie koffie of glas wyn wil ontdek, behoort die Paarl se splinternuwe Clay Café heel bo-aan hul lysie te wees. Maart 2023 in die herehuis van die Groot Parys-landgoed sy deure oopgemaak. Dié landgoed is reeds sedert 1699 ‘n gevestigde wynplaas, en dus een van die oudstes in die Wynland. Dit is maklik bereikbaar en naby aan die N1-hoofweg. Die groot grasperke, indrukwekkende argitektuur en speelareas Die nuutste tak van die Clay Café-faam, wat in Houtbaai ontstaan het, het in vir kinders maak dit die perfekte ligging vir geleenthede – van kinderpartytjies tot kombuistees. Die Clay Café is 'n familiebesigheid wat in 1999 in 'n ou melkboerdery begin het. Die besigheid se doelstelling is om konneksie deur middel van kreatiwiteit te bewerkstellig, en hulle streef daarna om hul eie werknemers te bemagtig en op te lei om vooruitstrewend te wees.

Ontdek jou kunssinnige kant by die Paarl se splinternuwe Clay Café.

@drakensteinmunicipality @DrakensteinMunicipality

Die nuutste tak van die Clay Café-faam in Paarl.

VARS | September

Die Clay Café is nie net bekend vir die verskeidenheid lekker kos en drinkgoed op sy spyskaart nie, maar ook vir die geleentheid wat hulle aan elkeen bied om jou innerlike kunstenaar uit te leef deur verskillende tipes breekware te versier. Besoekers besluit eers op ‘n rou pottebakkers- item, wat op rakke staan, waarna hulle uit verskillende tipes verfkwaste en kleure kan kies. Saam met hul ete kan hulle dan na hartelus dié item versier, en die geglasuurde finale produk na ‘n paar weke kom optel. Dié items strek van oulike pikkewyntjies en dinosourusse tot blompotte en opskepbakke. Vir diegene wie se kreatiwiteit ‘n hupstoot nodig het, is daar hulp in die vorm van stensils en vinielplakkers beskikbaar. Volgens Tamsin Snyman, 'n vennoot in die besigheid, kan die spyskaart as “easy eating” beskryf word. Geregte soos pizza’s, burgers, kaasborde, en vegetariese disse word graag saam met melkskommels van tuisgemaakte roomys, of wyn uit die omliggende area bedien. Vir kinderpartytjies is daar plek vir 20 kinders op ‘n slag, met ‘n spesiale spyskaart en toegewyde hulp om die partytjiebeplanning so glad as moontlik te laat verloop. Sedert die restaurant se opening in die Paarl het daar ook reeds tientalle verrassings-, verlowings-, en verjaarsdagpartytjies vir volwassenes daar plaasgevind.

Volgens Tamsin word elke personeellid ook op hul eie verjaarsdag soos ‘n koninklike behandel, omdat hulle glo dat gelukkige personeel ook gelukkige kliënte beteken. Sy sê dat hulle nederig dankbaar is vir hoe hulle tot dusver deur die plaaslike gemeenskap verwelkom is en ondersteun word. Die Clay Café Paarl het ‘n nuwe, moderne webtuiste wat die volledige storie van die restaurant vertel en belangstellendes deur die kreatiewe proses begelei. Spyskaarte en besprekingsvorms is ook hier beskikbaar. Die restaurant is elke dag van die week (insluitende naweke) van 09:00 tot 17:00 oop en dis maklik om aanlyn te bespreek. Lees meer en kry kontakbesonderhede by: https://claycafe.co.za/clay-cafe-paarl- groot-parys/

VARS | September

Ngemva (ukusuka ngasekhohlo) Saziso Ntsali, uKhansila Thobani Mooi, noMoses Pienaar Phambili (ukusuka ngasekhohlo) Eveline Pietersen, Glenton Sonamzi noNoncedo Betana (iGosa loPhuhliso loLuntu loRhulumente weNtshona Koloni)

IKomiti Ezimiseleyo YakwaWadi 5 Iza Notshintsho Kuluntu lwayo

Xa sijonga ubuninzi beendawo zamatyotyombe, uWadi 5 ulwa nezinga eliphezulu leengozi zemililo eziqhambuka umhla nezolo. UKhansila Mooi ucacisa ukuba eminye imingeni ephambili kule wadi iquka ukunqongophala kwezindlu, ukwebiwa kweentambo zombane, amaqela oonqevu, intswelangqesho, kunye nokulahlwa kwenkukuma ngokungekho mthethweni. “Sixoxa malunga nemiba yokuhanjiswa

UWadi 5, okhokhelwa nguKhansila Thobani Mooi, uxhaswa liqela lamalungu ekomiti yewadi alukhathalele nyani uluntu lwayo. Le wadi inabahlali abathetha iilwimi ezahlukileyo – kuquka isiXhosa, isiNgesi nesibhulu – yaye inoluntu olupheleleyo olumalunga nabahlali abangama9 000. ICarterville, iOR Tambo neNew Rest zenza inxalenye kaWadi 5. Kwakule wadi kuthe zinzi iHolo iColibri, apho imicimbi nemisitho yoluntu yenzelwa khona, kuquka ne NorSA Community Care Centre .

VARS | September

kweenkonzo kwiintlanganiso zethu zoluntu – yaye ukuba kukho umba ongxamisekileyo, sibiza iintlanganiso zommandla ukuba zijongane nezo ngxaki,” ucacisa atsho. “Siqalisa iqela lokugada ukhuseleko loluntu elijolise kubantu baseCarterville, yaye sifuna ukubandakanya wonke ubani kolu luntu ukuba alwe namaqela oonqevu. Sikwancedisana nolutsha kuphuhliso lwezakhono,” utshilo uKhansila Mooi. “Kule wadi sibakhathalele ababuthathaka. Ngoko ke sidla ngokuba neentlanganiso nabantu bethu abaphila nenkubazeko.

Oku kusinceda ukuba siyiqonde imingeni abajamelene nayo size sibone ukuba singabancedisa njani. Sele sizisebenzisile iimali zeeprojekthi zeewadi zethu ukunika izitulo ezinamavili kwabo bazidingayo. “Thina, njengekomiti yewadi, sisoloko silubeka phambili uluntu lwethu. Sijonge ukubanceda ngentlonipho kwanokuqinisekisa ngonxibelelwano olululo ngokugcina wonke umntu enolwazi ngemiba enxulumene newadi,” uphinde watsho.

Abahlali bangaxela imiba yokungahanjiswa

Njengangoku, uKhansila Mooi ukwithuba lakhe lokuqala esebenzela uMasipala waseDrakenstein. IKomiti kaWadi 5 inyulwe luluntu ngo2022. Okwangoku, alishumi amalungu akhotyo nasebenza kwiipotifoliyo zawo, nangala:

• UNtombizini Soga: Izibane zezitalato noMbane • USaziso Ntsali: Iindawo eziVulelekileyo neePaka • USiphe Ngcobondwana: UPhuhliso loLuntu • UThulani Mahlabela: Amanzi emiBhobho neeNdlela • UMoses Pienaar: EzemiDlalo, ubuGcisa neNkcubeko • UNokuthula Abraham: EzaManzi noGutyulo • UEveline Pietersen: UkuThuthwa kweNkukuma nokuLahlwa kweNkukuma okuNgekho Mthethweni • ULuthando Ntese: Iindawo zamatyotyombe neRenti • UAsanda Mzamo: AmaShishini, amaNcinci, aPhakathi kunye nasaKhasayo (iiSMME) kweenkonzo ezingangxamisekanga – ezifana nokulahlwa ngokungekho mthethweni kwenkukuma, Ingca ekhule ngokugqithisileyo, imingxuma esendleleni kunye nezibane zezitalato ezifuna ukulungiswa – ezo zinto bangazixela kwiApp ye SeeClickFix kaMasipala; ngokuthumela i-imeyile apha customercare@drakenstein.gov.za ; okanye ngokuqhagamshelana ngenombolo engahlawulelwayo kaMasipala engu 080 131 3553 . Ukuqhagamshelana noKhansila Mooyi okanye nawuphi omnye ukhansila wewadi woMasipala waseDrakenstein, cofa apha .

VARS | September

Personnel Vacancy

Located an hour’s drive from Cape Town, Drakenstein Municipality is the largest local municipality in the Western Cape, covering Paarl (where its head office is based), Wellington, Mbekweni, Gouda, Hermon, Saron, and Simondium. A fast-growing, progressive region and investment destination, Drakenstein boasts excellent infrastructure, top-performing schools, and vibrant business, manufacturing, sport, and tourism sectors. Its charm undoubtedly lies in its age-old wine farms, historical landmarks and architecture, beautiful scenery, cycling and hiking trails, and adventure sports offerings. The Municipality, an employer committed to equal employment opportunities, invites qualifying candidates to apply for the following vacancies. If you are passionate about building a city of excellence in Drakenstein, this is the team and place for you.

TRAINEE FIREFIGHTERS Community Services

Total-cost-to-employer remuneration: R294 836.60 – R359 965.47 per annum

PRINCIPAL ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN Engineering Services

Total-cost-to-employer remuneration: R840 946.37 – R1 016 107.12 per annum

MANAGER: PARKS AND OPEN SPACES Community Services

Total-cost-to-employer remuneration: R945 817.10 – R1 143 024.88 per annum

Closing date: 6 October 2023 For enquiries, contact our Recruitment Office at 021 807 4508. For vacancies’ full particulars and requirements, visit www.drakenstein.gov.za .

VARS | September

INVITATION TO TENDER

ED 1/2023

ED 2/2023

Construction of Firewall at 66kV Substations in Drakenstein Municipality and Associated works for period ending 30 June 2026. MINIMUM CIDB GRADING: 2SL or higher

Expansion, upgrading, commissioning, testing, and maintenance of electrical substation monitoring and supervisory control system in the Drakenstein Municipality area for a contract period ending 30 June 2026. MINIMUM CIDB GRADING: 2EP or higher

Preference Points System

80/20

80%

Closing Date and Time Minimum Functionality

5 October 2023 10:00

Full details of tender notices are available on www.drakenstein.gov.za , www.etenders.gov.za , and www.cidb.org.za (construction-related tenders), and on the municipal noticeboard. A non-refundable fee of R450.00 is payable to Drakenstein Municipality for the collection |of documents. No fee will be charged when the tender document is requested electronically. Tenders may only be submitted on the tender documentation provided by the Municipality and must remain valid for a minimum of 120 days after tender closing. This is not the only advertisement of this tender. Please also refer to the local newspapers or Drakenstein Municipality’s website .

VARS | September

Drakenstein Municipality

SeeClickFix www.drakenstein.gov.za/seeclickfix Download the app on iOS, Android, or Windows.

VARS | September

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