Welcome to the September/October issue of The Greyton Post.
THE GREYTON POST
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2025
ISSUE 16
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THE GREYTON POST
NOV /DECEMBER 2025
Dear Readers,
that summer brings its own challenges. The risk of fire is high — please be vigilant, mindful, and take a moment to read our important fire safety article. A single spark can change everything. Above all, let’s move into the new year with kindness. Be watchful, be considerate, and keep an eye out for neighbours, visitors, and our beautiful surroundings. Wishing you all a peaceful, fire-free festive season — and may 2026 be filled with humour, kindness and of course, a plethora of stories to be told.
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As we close the final issue of The Greyton Post for the year, I find myself reflecting — with deep gratitude and a happy sigh — on all that’s unfolded in our glorious valley. From the triumph of The Canola Roller to the artistry of Sâ at The Post House , the inspiring stories, creative ventures, and good- hearted community initiatives, this year has been stitched together by stories of courage, kindness, and connection. To our loyal readers, generous advertisers, and passionate contributors — thank you. You are the reason this newspaper thrives. Your stories, support, and riveting conversations are what make The Greyton Post truly yours. As the festive season approaches and our streets fill with joy, let’s remember
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Warmest regards,
Paula Ansley Editor, The Greyton Post
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A poem by Shani (Instagram: @blondiepoems & message me for your own custom poem)
WORD SEARCH SUMMER FLOWERS
Ah Summer had me sprawled out – I, flayed at will for the sun above, breached below – and shone along with my skin’s glistening sweat beads – spreading intensity, stretching my palms upwards, superseding the fabric – seeking the fibers of soul to let go – for the sun may penetrate your innards but ah the waters we climb into – after the shards of heat have hit us are ever-forgiving as we go bottomless.
LARKSPUR LOBELIA LUPINS MARIGOLD PETUNIA PHLOX PORTULACA SALVIA VERBENA ZINNIA
AGERATUM ALLIUM ALYSSUM BEGONIAS CELOSIA COSMOS DAHLIA DIANTHUS GAZANIA GODETIA
Please note: The opinions and views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not reflect the opinions or views of The Greyton Post.
FRONT PAGE PHOTO: PAULA ANSLEY
THE GREYTON POST
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2025 NOVEMBER / DEC
The Doctor’s Note...
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THE GREYTON POST
NOV /DECEMBER 2025
Sâ: A Seasonal Story of Soil, Soul and the Overberg T here’s a certain magic in watching something come to life — dreamt us into being rather than the other way around.” and now supplies part of the restaurant’s menu. They
Janet and John of The Post House Hotel was also a meeting of timing and vision. “They reached out initially when the timing wasn’t right — we were still building, still finishing contracts in Europe,” says Peter. “A year later, it circled back perfectly. Now, we close the loop — they recommend Sâ to their guests, and together we offer the full experience.”
also collaborate with the Pigs to Plants programme in Genadendal, working alongside Marshall and local farmers who are transitioning from pig farming to crop
especially when it’s been dreamt into being. For Zoe and Peter Klocke, owners of Sâ, Greyton’s new restaurant at The Post House Hotel, that magic began quite literally from the ground up.
The restaurant’s name, Sâ, comes from a Khoikhoi word believed to mean earth or to come forth. “It invites reflection on where we come
Every new menu begins with what Zoe calls “awe and curiosity.” She explains, “We move away
“Building our house here was muddy, tough, sometimes uncomfortable,” laughs Zoe. “But watching our vision take shape was incredible — something we achieved together. Though Peter will tell you I was often AWOL, ritzing around the world private cheffing while he was knee- deep in mud!”
from performance cooking and back to connection — to the people who’ve toiled over the land, and to the story each ingredient holds.” Looking ahead, they see Sâ evolving naturally with the rhythm of the seasons. “We live in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth,” says Zoe. “In each
That experience inspired them to manifest more of their dreams — one of which was to open a country restaurant rooted in the land and sustained by the seasons. “We’ve been visiting Greyton for decades to recharge from the intensity of city life. Eventually, we built a home — and Sâ grew naturally from there. It almost feels like Sâ
from — our food, our land, our ancestry,” says Zoe. “We wanted to honour the deep relationship to nature that has always existed here.” That connection is more than philosophy — it’s practice. Each evening, they take a walk around their garden,
planting. “We go once a week to harvest whatever’s in season — that’s what determines the menu,” explains Zoe. “The garden is our muse — from pea shoots that garnish a soup to fig leaves pressed into dressing while the fruit ripens for the next menu.”
menu, we hope to express that abundance — not only of produce, but of history, relationship, and life. We hope every guest leaves having eaten well, felt a renewed connection to fresh, seasonal produce, and discovered a small piece of wonder about this land and its people.’
which began a year ago with fruit and vegetables
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Building artistic foundations across our valley: The Children’s Art Walk 2025 D o you remember the joy of drawing or painting as a child at school? development by bolstering their artistic confidence and knowledge. Led by local artists, Dina and Isabella Kuijers, different ways of approaching the 2025 work and our young artists’ creativity will be seen at the Children’s Art Walk, 28-30 November, in the Anglican Church Hall. All are welcome! Fiona Burtt
from Bereaville to Greyton, manifesting in the annual exhibition held during the Greyton Art Walk weekend in November. But did you know that this is not just a one-off event, but a year- long programme of activity, facilitated by volunteers? A theme is selected to inspire children’s imagination. Teachers and volunteers from schools and after-school programmes are invited to participate in a series of workshops to introduce them to new skills and media and motivate work with their learners. They are also enriched with on-site support and donations of materials, sourced by project leader, Ruth Versfeld. This year’s programme was
theme of “Things with Wings” were explored, from pencil drawing to use of pastels and inks. LR Schmidt Primary School in Genadendal provided a welcoming space for the workshops, with teachers having the opportunity to learn collaboratively, boosted by tea and cake. Participants were encouraged to share what they gained with their colleagues and, of course, their learners. The results of the teachers’ hard
Sadly, the importance of art is often not sufficiently understood in educational settings and creative endeavours are marginalised in favour of more academic subjects. Engaging in artistic pursuits is, however, a critical activity for children’s holistic development. Art enhances cognitive skills by fostering creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. It supports social-emotional growth and advances fine motor skill development and hand-eye coordination. For several years, the Children’s Art Walk has sought to encourage and support the creativity of hundreds of children across our valley,
expanded to offer three workshops, designed to contribute to teachers’ continuing professional
A RESTAURANT IN THE OVERBERG GROUNDED IN REVERENCE
For more details contact Peter: 072 347 8138
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THE GREYTON POST
NOV /DECEMBER 2025
Driven by Heart: Alistair King and the Philipstown Wire Car Project W hen Greyton local Alistair King first heard about a African and universally human. At its core, it follows eight children as they train and compete in an
small Karoo town that held an annual wire car race, he never imagined it would one day become the centre of a global creative project — one that would unite storytelling, technology, and humanity in a remarkable way. Philipstown that held a wire car race every year,” Alistair recalls. “I remember being fascinated, but I just filed it away. Years later, when we were brainstorming ideas that could bring tech and humanity together, someone mentioned wire cars. Another “Way back, a friend told me about a place called suggested adding trackers to create a digital race — and suddenly I remembered Philipstown. In 30 seconds, the whole idea was born.” What began as a creative concept soon became something much deeper. “When we visited Philipstown and saw the extent of its social distress, we realised this was far more than a creative exercise. It was a profoundly human story — their story — and they deserved to benefit from it.” A Proudly South African Story The resulting film, The Philipstown Wire Car Grand Prix, is both deeply South
extraordinary 3.2 km race — barefoot, determined, and full of heart. “The film is really about courage, rivalry, and resilience,” says Alistair. “You’ll need a box of tissues nearby. It’s not just the race — we follow the kids in the build-up to race day, add some staggering CGI wizardry, and even a cameo from Siya Kolisi. One friend said it made him feel like he did when he watched Chariots of Fire.” Although the film features cutting-edge visual effects created by an Oscar-winning German CGI team, nearly every other aspect — from direction to score — is proudly South African. “It celebrates everything unique about Philipstown,” Alistair explains. “The film is almost entirely in Afrikaans, and the music spans our country’s genres and rhythms. The world has never seen anything like wire car culture — it’s joyous and deeply rooted in our heritage.” From Advertising to Authenticity As one of South Africa’s most acclaimed creative minds, Alistair is known for bringing intelligence and emotion to
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From Philipstown to the World Although the film was initially invited to premiere at Cannes, it first screened where it truly mattered — in Philipstown. “The kids didn’t know we’d created CGI avatars of them inside their cars,” Alistair smiles. “They thought we’d just filmed the race. When they saw themselves driving, not pushing, it was magical. That moment alone made everything worth it.” Now, as the film heads to international audiences, the goal is clear: to channel funds back into Philipstown’s social upliftment. “It’s about ensuring this story continues to give back — to the kids, the community, and the future.” A Creative Home in Greyton Though his work takes him far, Alistair’s roots are firmly in Greyton. “Retirement is pending,” he laughs, “but at least it’s pending from here. We’ve had a home in Greyton for 20 years, and now it’s officially our base. The calm, the people, the horses using our stoop for shade — it’s one of the most tranquil places on earth. My mind won’t be slowing down anytime soon, but this is the place that keeps it grounded.”
advertising. But this project allowed him to go beyond commerce. “Most advertising is puerile and mindless,” he says bluntly. “I’ve always tried to create work with meaning. This project let me do that to the fullest.” It was also deeply personal. “It was the last idea conceptualised before King James transitioned into Accenture. I actually resigned
on the night we screened the film to the Philipstown community. It felt fitting — a full-circle moment.” But the film is only part of what he calls a “self- enablement ecosystem.” Alongside the documentary, the WireCar Foundation now supports local initiatives, runs an online store, and offers a free mobile game mapped on the streets of
Philipstown. “Wire, which is often discarded, became a metaphor — for what can happen when you pick something up and mould it into something beautiful and useful.”
The Philipstown Wire Car Grand Prix premieres globally on Amazon Prime. Download the WGP Game on Google Play and Apple App Store, or visit PhilipstownWireCar.com to donate or shop official merchandise.
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THE GREYTON POST
NOV /DECEMBER 2025
A Teetotal Vegetarian in a Land of Braais: Christmas Across Two Hemispheres
In South Africa, however, there’s nowhere to hide. The first time I attended a Greyton Christmas braai, I brought along my trusty vegetarian sausages — made, I might add, from organic lentils and quiet moral conviction. Within seconds, someone eyed them suspiciously and asked if they were bait. Here, Christmas is not an indoor activity. It’s a full-body, outdoor festival of flame, sun, and social stamina. While the rest of the village sizzled their steaks and toasted with something cold and bubbly, I stood in the shade, clutching my sparkling water and hoping my veggie burger wouldn’t dissolve before lunch. The dog looked unimpressed. And yet, there’s something magnificent about a South African Christmas. The sheer exuberance! The tables groaning under salads, mangoes, pavlovas, and conversation. The children darting between sprinklers. The mountains watching on like benevolent grandparents. You can’t help but feel festive, even if your main course once resembled chickpeas rather than a cow.
In the UK, the season is built for introspection, cold evenings, candlelight, and the occasional heated argument about Brexit. In Greyton, it’s built for connection. By the time the sun sets over the Sonderend Mountains, no one cares what you ate, only that you showed up, smiled, and remembered the words to “Silent Night.” Of course, certain adjustments are necessary. I’ve learned to bring a “just-in- case” Tupperware of marinated halloumi, to position myself near the salad table before the carnivores descend, and to accept that explaining “I don’t drink” will be met with the same disbelief as claiming you’ve seen a unicorn in Main Street. But perhaps that’s the gift of living between two Christmases, learning to find joy in both the drizzle and the drought, the nut roast and the braai, the mince pie and the mango. So while my British friends huddle around radiators with their mulled wine, I’ll be here in Greyton, sunscreened, sober, serenaded by cicadas, quietly celebrating a very sunny sort of peace on earth.
A s a British man living in Greyton, I’ve learned that Christmas can be both utterly familiar and profoundly confusing . There are few things more disorienting to a British mind than celebrating Christmas while sweating. Back home, December arrives with all the subtlety of a tax bill. The sky turns pewter, mince pies appear in supermarkets, and everyone develops an opinion about brussels sprouts. By mid-month, the streets smell faintly of damp wool and regret. For me as a teetotal, gluten free vegetarian, Christmas in Britain is an annual exercise in polite evasion: “No, thank you, I don’t drink, yes, even at Christmas. And no, turkey gravy still counts as meat even if made by my mother in law.” But at least in the UK, abstinence has the advantage of camouflage. When everyone’s wrapped in scarves and self- pity, I can hide my delicious nut roast behind a pile of roast potatoes and no one’s the wiser.
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2025 NOVEMBER / DEC
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The Dog v Donkey Olympics
more—keeping the younger crowd entertained while the grown-ups warmed up for the main spectacle.
tea. The crowd roared.
the back of Potters, splashing their way through relay races that had the crowd in stitches.
T his year’s joint EARS was nothing short Penny Sparrowhawk
And of course, our fearless Australian lifeguard Emcee— whose identity remains under wraps to protect both himself and the innocent—
fundraising showdown between GAWS and
of hilarious and heart- warming. Hosted by Amy and Tommy at the Old Potters Inn, the pub was transformed into a playground where children,
was the ultimate
showman. With guts, gusto (and more than a little mischief), he kept the
evening rolling in laughter.
adults, dogs, and donkeys all found their moment of glory.
A huge thank you to everyone who joined the fun, supported with raffle tickets, and cheered us on. Together, we raised not just funds, but plenty of smiles.
At 6pm the “serious business” began: the official Olympic swim! Volunteers from both GAWS and EARS bravely took to the pool at
The highlight? A surprise royal appearance by Queen Colleen, who ceremoniously “warmed” the waters by pouring in her famous pot of
The afternoon kicked off with old-fashioned fairground games—darts, boules, and
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THE GREYTON POST
NOV /DECEMBER 2025
Protecting Your Property from Fire
O ur valley’s natural beauty comes with a risk familiar to all who live here — the ever-present threat of wildfire. As temperatures rise and summer winds return, residents are reminded to take simple but vital steps to protect
never burn the debris — rather take it to the municipal drop-off or compost responsibly.
water sources accessible. In the event of a nearby fire, being able to dampen vegetation quickly can make a huge difference. 5. Emergency contacts Save these numbers in your phone and display them clearly in your home: Firstly, call: Overberg District Fire Control: 028 425 1690 Then call: Greyton Volunteer Fire Fighters: 061 537 1108 (Gavin) or 083 701 7770 (Simon) 6. Stay informed and alert Follow the Valley of 6 Fire Watch whatsapp group for real-time fire updates and seasonal warnings. When conditions are extreme, avoid using machinery, chainsaws, or open flames outdoors. A little preparation goes a long way. By keeping your property clear and knowing who to call, you help safeguard not only your home but the whole community.
their homes and community from fire especially as we have had a particularly dry winter. 1. Create a defensible space Start by cutting back long grass, dry vegetation, and overgrown shrubs at least 10 metres around your home. Keep trees well-pruned, especially branches hanging over roofs or near chimneys.
3. Check your gutters and roofs Dry leaves and pine needles can ignite easily. Clear gutters regularly and consider installing metal mesh guards. A clean, maintained roofline can stop embers from finding a foothold. 4. Water points and hoses Have hosespipes long enough to reach all sides of your property, and keep
Remove dead wood and fallen leaves — they act as perfect fuel for a spreading blaze. 2. Manage your fynbos responsibly Greyton’s fynbos is both beautiful and highly flammable. Avoid clearing it completely, but do thin it out. Maintain firebreaks between your property and surrounding veld. When cutting back,
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Keeping the Valley Safe This Festive Season
G reybos Neighbourhood Watch (GNW) is working hard to keep our Greyton, Boschmanskloof, and Heuwelkroon communities safe. But we can’t do it without you. Our camera system is up and running, thanks to the kindness of our community, support from APS, and monitoring by SAPS. With the Festive Season fast approaching, please remind your visitors to be vigilant. An open window when you go out or a visible bag left in the car can be an easy temptation, especially at this busy time of year. In the 2024/25 Christmas holiday period, our GNW patrols resulted in a 90% reduction in crime in Greyton. We have a great team of patrollers, all living in our valley, who are trained and ready to be our eyes and ears on the ground at night. Our patrollers have often joined forces with the SAPS Community in Blue members on ad hoc patrols this year. SAPS is on board with all the GNW activities, and we are very grateful to Captain Louw-Steenkamp and her team for their
proactive and collaborative approach to our safety and security. But SAPS has its hands full policing the whole valley. That’s why we need your help to fund our critical patrols. R100 000 is needed to pay the patrollers and cover transport, from 10 December 2025 to 13 January 2026. Please consider donating to GNW for this important initiative. We must also look forward to March 2026, when the ABSA Cape Epic will be using our trails and showcasing our village to the world. We’re hoping to continue our patrols over this exciting event and others on the Greyton calendar next year. You can make it happen! We will include a list of our donors in the GNW newsletter. Email us at greyton.watch@gmail.com or call 067 414 1372 with any queries or concerns. Please use the QR Code on this page to make a financial contribution. Or deposit to Greyton Watch, FNB, account 628 357 955 29, branch code 250655. Use your name and “Patrols” as a reference.
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NOV /DECEMBER 2025
Interview with Elsa Rogers: Surviving the Oceanos
I n August 1991, the world was gripped by the unfolding drama of the Oceanos cruise liner sinking off the Wild Coast of South Africa. The ship went down in ferocious seas after flooding crippled its engines — but in a miracle of courage and composure, every one of the 571 passengers and crew survived. Among them was Greyton’s own Elsa Rogers , today well known for her cheerful smile at the EARS charity shop and her steady hand on the bowls green. Elsa recalls the extraordinary series of events that changed her life forever. “It was my first cruise,” she begins with a wry smile. “I’d won some money at the casino in Pretoria and thought, why not? It was a cheap holiday! My boss teased me, saying, ‘Don’t go sinking like the Titanic !’ and I told him not to be silly.” The cruise set off from Durban, stopping in East London and Cape Town before heading back up the coast. From the start, the sea was rough. “Plates were flying out of cupboards, and food was sliding off table and a few people were sea sick” Then came the night of 3 August. Around 8 p.m., a loud noise echoed through the ship, followed by a deep, unsettling list to one side. “I was thrown into a mirror,” Elsa recalls. “Roulette wheels went flying,
crockery smashing everywhere. We were told to go to the lounge and sit on the floor, and that’s exactly what we did. No one screamed, no one cried — it was the strangest calm.” What the passengers didn’t know was that the Oceanos was fatally compromised. A maintenance fault had left a valve open, flooding the ship. As the situation worsened, many of the crew — including the captain — abandoned ship, leaving passengers and entertainers behind. “It was quite disgraceful,” Elsa says firmly. “The captain was one of the first to leave, supposedly to ‘organise things from shore’. We were left in the hands of the entertainers and tour guides, who were the real heroes.” Among those heroes were Moss Hills and Robin Boltman , members of the onboard entertainment team who took charge of the evacuation. “They got on the radio, called for help, and refused to leave until every last person was off,” Elsa says. “Moss went up and down with the helicopters until he collapsed from exhaustion.” At 4 a.m., passengers were told to crawl out to the open deck and hold onto the rails as 40m waves raged below them. “We sat in rows, holding onto each other. Some started singing Abide With Me . It was eerie but
strangely peaceful. Nobody panicked — not once. Everyone just accepted what was happening and did what had to be done.” When her turn finally came to be lifted into a helicopter, Elsa felt an unexpected calm. “I accepted I was going to die when I was on the ship, but I wasn’t afraid. I just didn’t want my children to find out through the news.” Rescued at dawn, she watched from the air as the Oceanos gradually slipped beneath the waves. Remarkably, no lives were lost. “It was a miracle,” she says softly. Today, at 85, Elsa lives a full and happy life in Greyton. She volunteers at the EARS charity shop, plays bowls, and cherishes her five children, twelve grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. “Greyton gave me a new lease on life,” she smiles. “My motto has always been This too shall pass .” From the sinking Oceanos to the safe harbours of village life, Elsa Rogers remains a living testament to the strength, humour, and quiet courage of South Africans — calm under pressure, compassionate in crisis, and always ready to find light after the darkest storm.
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Our Unsung Hero article is graciously sponsored by
VICTORIANBATHROOMS.CO.ZA
Unsung hero of the Month: Our Valley of Kindness
A s the year draws to a close, it but to an entire community — our beloved Greyton and the surrounding villages. Because, time and again, when life throws its challenges our way, it’s the people of this valley who rise — quietly, selflessly, and with extraordinary kindness. feels fitting to dedicate this final Unsung Hero not to an individual, Here, when the veld is burning or worse, a house burns down, our volunteer firemen don’t hesitate. They’re there within moments in the community-funded truck, battling flames shoulder to shoulder, neighbours helping neighbours. Before the smoke has even cleared, the emergency supplies arrive for all. Red Cross team with household essentials, a bakkie filled with cool drinks for the exhausted firefighters. Families bring cooked meals, and donations pour in for those left staring at the ashes of their home — not because anyone is asked to, but because that’s simply what people here do. Recently, we experienced this kindness first-hand. After an unexpected injury left us suddenly incapacitated, we were reminded in the most humbling way of how special this place truly is. Meals appeared on our doorstep without request, offers of lifts to the hospital came from every direction, our animals were cared for in our absence and the constant check-ins and small acts of thoughtfulness reminded us that no
one in Greyton ever faces hardship alone.
equines safe and generally ‘sound’.
And it isn’t only in moments of crisis that the spirit of this valley shines. It’s present every day, in the quiet work of those who give their time and hearts to make life better for others. The Red Cross team continues its tireless efforts supporting vulnerable families and children. Greyton Conservation Society strives to keep our environment beautiful and control
A special word of thanks, too, to our local SAPS officers and the Neighbourhood Watch teams — including the dedicated CIB volunteers from Voorstekraal and Bereaville — who give their time to patrol our streets at night. Their quiet vigilance helps keep our valley safe, and their presence reminds us that true community protection comes from care, not fear.
And let’s not forget the countless volunteers behind the scenes — the organisers of charity events, the fundraisers, the home- based soup kitchens and carers who quietly tend the less fortunate community members, or drop off a food parcel without a word. Greyton may be a small place, but it has the biggest heart imaginable. In a world that can often feel hurried and disconnected, our valley stands out as a reminder that community still matters, that kindness still counts, and that humanity still thrives when people choose to care.
So this issue — and indeed, as we close the chapter on
both alien species and baboons where possible! GAWS dedicates itself to the wellbeing of our four-legged residents, rescuing, rehoming, and caring for animals in need with compassion and commitment. Then there is EARS with its equine team of staff and volunteers who put in countless hours to keep our wandering
another year — our Hero of the Month is you, Greyton. Every neighbour who lent a hand, every volunteer who gave their time, every person who chose compassion over convenience. Thank you for making this valley such a special place to call home.
Here’s to you — the real heroes of the year.
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THE GREYTON POST
NOV /DECEMBER 2025
Red Cross Greyton: A Year of Giving and Gratitude I t’s that final sprint to the end of the year — and what a year it’s been for our dedicated Red Cross team! locally, with Sygnia Investments joining in the spirit by packing jars for 67 Minutes on Mandela Day. We’ve also focused on ensuring clothing reaches those who year. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year — here’s to an even more impactful 2026! Bridget Impey
From fundraising triumphs to heartfelt community support, 2025 has been a shining example of what can be achieved when a village pulls together. We kicked off the year with our Uniform Drive in January, raising an impressive R30,000, followed by the elegant Bridgerton Tea, which brought in over R25,000 — both events receiving tremendous support from our generous community. Throughout the year, the Red Cross Shop, First Aid events, Car Boot Sales, and Book Sales at the market have continued to provide a steady flow of income. The ever-popular Jars of Joy initiative was once again embraced
need it most, through our regular R5 sales, which have made a real difference in our community. All of these efforts allow us to keep supporting our four core pillars — First Aid, Disaster Management, Community Upliftment, and Family Links. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed time, energy, and kindness this
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2025 NOVEMBER / DEC
THE GREYTON POST
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there was a wonderful (drum-roll) pavlova of chocolate and pears , and a labnah with strawberries and blueberries , all of which made buttons pop just by looking at them! The transformation of the park was started several years ago by two neighbours on the opposite side of the road, the late Rensjah Bloem and Jane Moseley, who felt that the land at the end of Oak Street was worthy of a facelift. It was in such a beautiful setting that they felt instinctively that it could become a real attraction for Greyton residents and visitors. And so they began. Using their own gardeners, they planted and mowed and chased cows, which insisted on munching all their hard work. And so it has grown. Others became involved and a project that was just an idea by two ladies who loved their gardens, became a reality. Now people regularly picnic there and the ever- widening circle of ladies that support this initiative—40 at last count—often meet there for tea or a sundowner. For more information if you would like to help in any way please contact Estelle van Loggerenberg on 083 280 1109 or Jane Moseley on 082 455 9364.
The Country Brunch I t was Gertrude Jekyll who said: The love of gardening is a seed once sown that never dies. Proof of this was seen at this year’s fundraiser for the community garden at
the end of Oak Street. Last year a team of ladies got together for the first time and produced a knock-out brunch which was so successful in bringing in much-needed funds that they decided to do the same this year. On Wednesday, 8 October, the Country Brunch took place once again at Hemelsbreed, Christo and Estelle van Loggerenberg’s gorgeous farm outside Greyton, undoubtedly once of the most beautiful and inspiring venues in the Overberg. And what a feast it was, both for eyes and for tummies. The three-course brunch was simply spectacular. After a welcoming drink to set the tone (a flute of bubbles, or bubbles and orange juice), guests were served a first course of “nibbles”--, before moving on to a selection of gorgeous salads and salmon mousse, coronation chicken and bite size quiches We were warned not to overindulge; which became clear when the desserts were served. There was brandy tart , there were bite size cakes, there were brownies and
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THE GREYTON POST
NOV /DECEMBER 2025
5 Smart Money Moves Before Year-End
(PBO) . Donations to these causes are tax-deductible (up to 10% of your taxable income), and all you need is a Section 18A receipt. It’s a lovely way to help others and reduce your tax bill. 2. Top up your retirement savings If you have a retirement
our goals. Take a moment to review where your money is invested. Are you comfortable with the balance between risk and growth? Is your portfolio still in line with your 2026 goals? A short chat with your Wealth Manager can help you make small tweaks that create big wins over time. 4. Clear the clutter Look over your budget and any lingering debts. Paying off or consolidating short-term loans can free up cash flow and reduce stress heading into the new year. Even small wins - like trimming a few unused subscriptions can make a difference.
hold - travel, renovations, or a new business idea. Setting clear financial goals now helps you make smarter choices when January rolls around. And if you’re not sure where to start, consider booking a meeting with a qualified financial planner - either before the end of the year or early in 2026. A professional can help you review your goals, structure your investments, and give you the peace of mind that everything’s heading in the right direction. A quick year- end check-in doesn’t have to be complicated. Spend an hour this week reviewing, planning, and setting your intentions - your future self will thank you.
Claire Moorhouse
A s we head into the more about family braais, beach trips, and a well- earned break than about our personal finances. But before the year slips away, taking a few simple steps can help you start 2026 feeling organised and confident. holidays, most of us are probably thinking Here are five easy things you can do before 31 December to set yourself up for a stronger financial year ahead: 1. Give - and get something back If you’re donating to a local charity or community project this festive season, check whether they’re a registered Public Benefit Organisation
annuity (RA), and are potentially receiving a
year-end bonus, now’s the time to add a little extra. Contributions made before tax year-end (28 Feb 2026) can lower your taxable income by up to 27.5% of your earnings - while boosting your long-term savings. It’s like giving your future self a bonus.
3. Check your investments Markets change, and so do
5. Plan for the year ahead Think about what 2026 might
2025 NOVEMBER / DEC
THE GREYTON POST
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AFRIKAANS a poem by Doug Murray
A language of the people for the people So many delights of surprise No less, no more Language of the working girl, language of heroes.
BE GOOD. BE NICE. EAT CHOCOLATE. REPEAT
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THE GREYTON POST
NOV /DECEMBER 2025
Watering Your Garden Over Summer – Finding the Right Balance
watering can per square metre) for lawns and garden beds. Roses, a favourite amongst many Greyton gardeners, thrive on regular, deep watering. During summer, give established rose bushes and shrubs a thorough soak two to three times a week, ensuring water reaches well below the root zone — about 20–30cm deep. Avoid overhead watering, as wet leaves can lead to fungal diseases like black spot. Instead, water at the base of the plant, allowing the soil to absorb moisture slowly. A thick layer of mulch around the base of your roses will help keep the roots cool and reduce evaporation — just be sure to leave a small gap around the stems to prevent rot. Early morning is still the best time to water. The air is cooler, and there’s less evaporation. Evening watering can work too, but in humid conditions it may encourage fungal growth. If your soil feels dry 5–10cm
below the surface, it’s time to water again. Mulching is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your garden healthy through summer. A 5–8cm layer of mulch around plants helps to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Organic mulches like bark chips, compost, straw, or even fallen leaves will slowly break down, improving your soil over time. For lawns, mow a little higher in summer — longer grass shades the soil and reduces evaporation. And if you have established trees or shrubs, remember they still need the occasional deep soak,
S ummer in Greyton is a beautiful time of year – long days, bright skies, and gardens bursting with life. But with the warmth also comes the challenge of keeping our gardens hydrated, especially when the sun is relentless and the wind picks up. Knowing how much to water, when to do it, and how to make that water go further can make all the difference. The most common mistake gardeners make is either watering too often or too little. Most plants and lawns only need a deep watering two to three times a week, rather than a light sprinkle every day. The goal is to get the moisture down into the root zone. Shallow watering encourages roots to stay near the surface, where they dry out faster. When you do water, give it a good soak — roughly 25mm (about a Andrew Jones-Phillipson Fiore Restaurant & Garden
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Greyton’s soils vary from sandy patches to heavier clay, so keep an eye on how your garden responds and adjust accordingly. The aim isn’t to drench, but to nurture moisture where your plants can use it best. With thoughtful watering, care for your roses, and a good layer of mulch, your summer
garden will not only survive the heat — it will thrive, rewarding you with vibrant
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2025 NOVEMBER / DEC
THE GREYTON POST
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the roadside — gravity-fed furrows that bring mountain water to gardens and smallholdings, just as they did a century ago. Every household once had its turn to divert the flow, and the community lei water turn (or quarrel about it!) was practically a social event. It’s living history — an open- air museum of irrigation in motion. Today, we have Wi-Fi-enabled controllers, drip systems that deliver water drop-by-drop, and apps that can predict rain. But the essence of irrigation hasn’t changed since the first farmer picked up a shovel: coaxing water to go where it doesn’t naturally want to. So next time you open a valve or adjust a sprinkler, spare a thought for Archimedes, the Nile farmers — and the lei water keepers of Greyton — all part of the same long and flowing story. For your watering needs: contact Les atSmart Garden Irrigation 066 216 9667
A Brief (and Rather Splashy) History of Irrigation
engineering that makes even modern hydrologists nod in admiration. Fast-forward to the present, and you’ll still find echoes of these ancient systems right here in South Africa. In towns like Greyton, lei water channels snake quietly along
invented the shaduf, a hand- operated lever with a bucket at one end — the original water-lifting gadget. A few centuries later, a clever Greek named Archimedes took things up a notch. His famous Archimedes screw — essentially a spiral tube inside a cylinder — allowed water to be lifted uphill with surprising ease. It’s said he dreamt it up to help irrigate the royal gardens of Syracuse. The same simple principle is still used today in everything from flood pumps to hydro- powered turbines. Not to be outdone, the Romans built aqueducts so astonishing that some still deliver water 2,000 years later. The Incas, on the other hand, turned their mountain slopes into sculpted terraces, channelling water neatly down from the Andes — a feat of
Les Ansley L ong before we were timers, our ancestors were already perfecting the art of getting water from there to here. The story of irrigation is a 5,000-year tale of human creativity — and stubbornness — that transformed deserts into gardens and villages into thriving communities. The ancient Sumerians of Mesopotamia were the first to make irrigation fashionable, carving canals from the untangling garden hoses or adjusting sprinkler Tigris and Euphrates rivers around 3,000 BCE. Their muddy ditches didn’t look like much, but they turned barren plains into the “Cradle of Civilisation.” The Egyptians soon followed, using the annual flooding of the Nile to their advantage. They even
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THE GREYTON POST
NOV /DECEMBER 2025
The Greyton Cliffhanger Part 2
sentences. An implode of sense needed bewitch to me. The day dwelled on politely and it felt undue to her. Walking in nature with dad had always piqued my curiosity, he could just about identify every little speck of a bloom from far, each swoosh of green as we moved – the littlest beings hiding among the wealth of stems and flowers and bushes seemed to whisper to him. He was certainly a whole half of her – for nature talked pleasantly to both their hearts. It healed the fast-paced breaths of yesterday and tomorrow. The seemingly cool air licked up worries and the light bowed with presents such as the flutters of hope, and an escape from having to converse - rather urging me to notice - a nudge to rest my unmistakably loud
I am seated on the tattered brown leather bakkie seat of childhood, begging for him to hurry – in my mind – with our hot drinks. But he never hurries, never swops the old for new. Mornings were easy for her; she could ignore the pangs of feelings within her. Dull the words waiting in her throat with the heat of a tea. Pretend to be sleepy, even though she had always been an early-riser – the birds signaling her to climb up their trees. Coming to a complete standstill, again - father filled the pickup with provisions. Nostalgia was rancid in the air. It was Summer, again. This time the heat condensed with an unfamiliar stifle of memories I just wanted to let go of...
thoughts. Splodges of the past still linger out there and the newest of blubs wanting to burst as if wanting to get Summer over with. Misery had obviously been self-induced for a while now. Another rickety riddle between the two of them to swing over the shoulders . The truck held tight wounds. I delve into familiar meekness as the tears further impale my wild honey eyes. I am seated in the bakkie , again - sweat stinging upon my arms and back from our brisk walk. Ever secretly trying to forget how many years the father figure, now sitting beside me, had ignored me. Had chosen not to see me. Now, I felt old, and he felt knowingly unknown to me.
Shani De Villiers
A s I put in a little effort to open a rusty window in the room dad had left almost bare, burnt sparks of eagerness fly through me – even a touch solace races through me – as the trees grow with the sunlit sparkles of the day ahead. Sore fingers were worth it - for the ache of fresh air.
To be continued...
I started to eke out semi-okay
2025 NOVEMBER / DEC
THE GREYTON POST
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Roses hit the ground running with unbeaten start to the season T he Greyton Roses Football Club have made a flying start to their new season with two wins and a draw to top the Hollywoodbets Regional League standings, after three games. players continue to be key members of our squad,” the coach explained. “It helped to balance the young team we had with some more experienced heads. “This time we have signed some incredibly talented young players, mostly from Trevor Kramer
another local team Barcelona FC. Coach Sithandiwe Matshandu has also joined us from Barcelona, and he has made a real impact at the club already.” Kramer felt it was a testament to the rise of football in Greyton that his side are able to field such a competitive squad. “There are a number of really talented teams in Greyton, including the formidable White Stars FC, as well as Madiba Park FC and Legends FC, all run by amazing people and all providing a platform for players to play and express themselves,” he said. The problem though is that the cost for most local teams to join the league is prohibitive. The Roses rely on sponsorships, fundraising and the sale of t-shirts to keep their dreams alive. “This season Dupps Transport and the Black Sheep Restaurant helped us to buy tracksuits for the players, while the Greyton
In a repeat of the scoreline of the club’s first ever competitive match, back in 2023, the Roses secured their first three points of the new campaign with a 5-0 victory over newly promoted Eleven Masters, from Riviersonderend. A hard-fought 1-0 win over experienced campaigners Blackpool then preceded a thrilling 3-3 draw away to Villiersdorp Spurs last time out. The team’s early season form has come as no surprise to head coach Trevor Kramer, who admits to spending the off-season obsessively planning and preparing, and ultimately rebuilding his team by turning to the local community, for the second time in the club’s short history. “Ahead of our first season in the league in 2023, we joined forces with local team Rising Stars and won promotion, and those
Post supplied us with some much-needed balls, and we recently held a fantastic fundraiser in the form of a Quiz Night at Potters Restaurant, that will go to some of our transport costs,” added the coach. “I am personally truly grateful and thankful to everyone who has been part of our amazing journey, it is only with the support of Greyton that keeps our players active!” The Roses have two games at home before the Christmas break, on Saturday 2 November against Matatiel and on Sunday 16 November against Standards and would love your support! If you would like to help support the Roses as they navigate their 2025/26 season,
please get in touch with Adam on 082 884 6345 or 074 318 7259.
Non-denominational
EVERYONE WELCOME
We meet every SUNDAY at 9.30 am at the Dutch Reformed Church Hall Next to the tennis courts, Cnr Main/West St 083 679 4690
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