St Francis Bay Portal

The memorial service for Joe Oosthuizen will be held on Wednesday 29 June at the Village Hall (Bowling Club) at 10h30.

We sadly learned that Joe Oosthuizen, a leading member of the St Francis Bay community, passed away at the UCT Hospital in Cape Town following a heart attack on Thursday 23rd June. Joe will be dearly missed and very warmly remembered. Joe and his wife Paddy became synonymous with St Francis Bay during his Chairmanship of the Residents’ Association. Between them they raised the profile of the Association to an altogether higher level. He is survived by his loving wife, Paddy and her children, James-Dean, resident in Australia, and Nina.

The family has requested that donations in lieu of flowers be made to our own (St Francis’) animal welfare organization which is commonly known as Rebecca's Fund, but is more correctly the “April Olive Blossom Fund”

Banking details are:

Humansdorp Veterinary Clinic
First National Bank
Branch Code: 210 – 115
Account: 6221 784 9910
Reference: AOBF/Joe/your name

The St Francis Tourism’s Carnival on 2 July promises a program filled with fun for everyone.

To kick off the day, St Francis Sport is hosting a 5km and 10km fun run and walk through the streets of this beautiful Village. Registration starts at 08:00 at the St Francis Sport caravan in front of The Tennant Centre in St Francis Drive. The run starts at 09:00 and runners will follow a route through Assissi Drive, Lyme Road and St Francis Drive.
The first three positions (men and ladies) will receive medals. The entry fee is R40 for adults and R20 for all learners (it includes the entry fee to the Festival). The Talhado Steel band will provide music during the day. Between 12:00 and 14:00 kids can make their own pizzas, at 14:30 the Police Dogs will have a show on the grass opposite the filling station and at 15:30 all kids can take part in a fancy dress competition.
At 16:30 all the ladies can sit back and enjoy a fashion show. From 17:00 festivities will move to the beer tent and a lamb on the spit. Local musicians will supply music for the dance floor. Other entertainment includes a jumping castle, face painting, sand art, a clown, flea market, donkey cart rides, rodeo rides and a tea garden.
The entry fee is R20 for adults, R10 for children under 17 and kids under 12 free of charge. See you there – at The Tennant Centre. (source: Jbay News)

Enid Pretorius Properties Trail Walk: Tuesday 9 August 2011 (Women’s Day)

Enjoy nature during a trail walk of 26km along the beautiful landscape of St Francis Bay and Cape St Francis. The walk starts at the Village Centre and continues through the St Francis Bay Golf Course and the St Francis Links towards The Dunes Private Nature Reserve. The walk will then lead to Mosterds Hoek, along The Wild Side to the Cape St Francis lighthouse. The next part will along the beach towards Shark Point and then back to Port St Francis. Follow the Two Harbour Walk towards the Granny’s Pool and then back to the Village Centre. It is not about how fast the walk will be finished, it is about being in nature and about discovering the amazing scenery. There are also two shorter options with 12km and 14km to or from the lighthouse
Entry fee: R60 per adult, R40 for learners. The first 100 entries will get an event t-shirt and the oldest and youngest walker will get a prize! The closing date for entries is 5 August. Number collection is between 07:00 and 08:00 and the event will start at 08:00. Those who are only walking from the Lighthouse will start at 10:30.

Online entries are open on www.stfrancissport.co.za or get your entry form from Enid Pretorius Properties in the Village Centre. Contact Esti on 073 825 0835 or esti.stewart@vodamail.co.za for more information.

Danni & Dane walked down the aisle in Cape St Francis

Danni and Dane tied the knot on the Beach Break lawn in Cape St Francis, with the blue ocean as their backdrop, and over 200 guests as their witnesses. Champagne and oysters, canapés and wine under the Moroccan tent followed whilst the wedding party escaped for photos at Sunset rock.
From cocktails, guests walked to “The Space’ awaiting the bridal party’s arrival. Danni and Dane arrived to the sound of African song, sung by all the staff, some dressed in their traditional uniforms, to start-off the evenings proceedings. The reception was filled with an aura of happiness, laughter and love. The tables were filled with platters of fine food, and the entire day was that of a” memory made”, for all that attended.

Facie Malherbe, the father of the bride, gives the bride away...

Danni & Dane: Just married!

25 June 2011

Red Bull Manny Mania

Local skateboarder Damon De Clercq finished second in last weekend’s Red Bull Manny Mania competition held at Element Park in Jeffreys Bay. Gareth Sierra of East London won the event and Mark Stoutjesdyk of Port Elizabeth came third. The trio will now head for Johannesburg on June 26 to compete against other participants as part of the largest international event for amateur manual skaters. The winner of the national final will be flown to New York on a paid trip.

Kouga MTB Challenge at Oysterbay on 26 June 2011

The second annual Mountain Bike Challenge will take place in Oysterbay on the 26 June 2011. Bike riders can choose between 30km of an easy ride, 65 km of a more serious one and 130 km of a challenging ride. Entry fee is R30, R65 or R135 respectively which includes license for camping on site (RSVP). The race starts @ 7 am for the 130 km ride, @ 7.30 am for the 65 km ride and @ 7.40 am for the 30 km ride.
The king of the mountain wins a Netbook and the 1'st place 130 km challenger takes home R1000. There are also lots of other prizes. The weekend will start with a Hypnosis show by the popular Dr Stef, www.Drstef.co.za, on Saturday 25 June 2011 and with a pasta dinner for that carbo load. Tickets for the show will be at R50 pp and proceeds will go to the local NSRI. Please check on Facebook - "2011 Kouga MTB Challenge"

Billabong Pro Charity Golf Day at St Francis Links on 12 July 2011

The Billabong Pro Golf Day will be held at the Jack Nicklaus St Francis Links on 12 July, 2 days prior to the start of the Billabong Pro J-Bay 2011, to raise funds for the Supertubes Foundation. The fundraiser gives golfers the opportunity to meet some of the world’s best surfers on a five star golf course with each four-ball including a member of the ASP Top 45. The Jack Nicklaus St Francis Links is situated in St Francis Bay and acknowledged as one of the country’s best golf courses, receiving a ‘Five Star Golf Experience’ award from Compleat Golfer and has been voted as one of ‘The Top 10 Golf Courses in South Africa’ by Golf Digest in 2011.

The Supertubes Foundation

The mission of the Supertubes Foundation is to preserve the waves and beaches of Jeffreys Bay since 1999, the Supertubes Surfing Foundation is a joint venture between the local surf clubs and the surf industry in the town.

Billabong Pro Music Festival: 15 – 17 July 2011

Billabong is staging a major uprising of underground musical talent to coincide with world class surfing. Join the pro’s and awesome brands like Billabong, Black Label and Monster Energy and rock out in J-Bay this July for three consecutive nights of musical mayhem.

The band lineup is follows:

FRIDAY 15 July: La Vi - Rambling Bones - Holiday Murray - Aking
SATURDAY 16 July: Meri Kaniz -Don't Panic - City Bowl Mizers - PH Fat
SUNDAY 17 July: Hot Wasabi - Art Matthews - Jeremy Loops - Jack Parow

Venue: Jolly Dolphin
Tickets: R60 per ticket per night and are limited to 1 000 tickets per night for the three respective nights. Tickets can be purchased at any Billabong store countrywide.

Lunar Eclipse June 2011: Most Beautiful and longest in 11 years

Spectators across the world were amazed to see the longest and the most beautiful lunar eclipse in 11 years on June 15, 2011 when the moon turned into a blood-red shade as it entered the earth's shadow. The eclipse lasted 100 minutes and the next such eclipse is forecast to take place only in 2141.

A lunar eclipse occurs when the moon passes behind Earth so that the earth blocks the sun's rays from striking the moon. This can occur only when the Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned exactly, or very closely so, with Earth in the middle.

Local Surfers are enjoying the great winter swell at Bruce’s….

Richmond Hill Street Music Festival in Port Elizabeth on 18 June 2011

The Alliance Française of Port Elizabeth, the Summerstrand Hotel, the Mandela Bay Development Agency along with restaurants and coffee shops in the neighbourhood will be hosting the second Street Music Festival of Richmond Hill. So far Fushin, Vovo Telo Pizzeria and bakery, Pescadiya, Bain Street Grill, Flava, Deli Street Café, Chilli Bean Cantina, Delicia, Bahia Lounge, Home Bru Harvest, Camden, Piemontese, Yiayias and The Irie have all decided to join the Alliance Française in this festivity of music including Soul, Electro, Reggae, Hip Hop, Folk, Rock, Pop, Acoustic, Jazz, Funk and Improvisation. A small area of the suburb: Mackay Street, Stanley Street, Raleigh Street, Lutman Street and Landsdowne Street will be closed to all traffic for the duration of the fest. A main stage will be set up on Stanley Street and will welcome, amongst a variety of local bands, a Soul-Pop-Rock band coming from Swaziland: Nancy Ginindza. Meri Kenaz, Take Note, Jam Room, Cotton fields, Mo’Jazz, Futomato, Ubuhlebe Africa, Onerve, CCH Jazz Combo, Christopher Frost, St Georges Brass Band, Ever High Dread, Onerve … are just some of the artists that will be performing on the day however any musician that wants to perform on the day of the event is welcome to plug and play. The event is free of charge.

National Arts Festival Grahamstown 30 June – 10 July 2011 - 11 days of art

Organised by the Grahamstown Foundation, Africa's largest and most colourful cultural event offers a choice of the very best of both indigenous and imported talent. Every year for 15 days Grahamstown's population almost doubles, as over 50 000 people flock to the city for a feast of arts, crafts and sheer entertainment. Every hall or large room becomes a theatre, parks and sport fields become flea markets, normally quiet streets have to be managed by an army of temporary traffic wardens, and every available bed in the city is booked. The festival offers more than 500 shows from opera, cabaret, drama and jazz to stand-up comics and folk music.
For more info please visit the official website of the National Arts Festival: http://www.nationalartsfestival.co.za

The Wine Show Road Show Nelson Mandela Bay is returning to the Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth from 10 June 2011 - 12 June 2011.

The three-day wine extravaganza will feature an exhilarating line-up of wine producers ranging from boutique wineries, garagistes to some of the biggest producers in the country. Show visitors can get more in-depth information on various wines and cultivars during free tutored tasting sessions presented by winemakers in the Wine Theatre throughout the weekend. Visitors will be able to enjoy the wines at leisure and utilise the Dawn Wing Sip & Ship to ensure that the wines are delivered to their doors. Food courts will be located on both levels of the impressive stadium's World of Windows. Weekend passes cost R150 per person and special group rates of R80 per person apply for bookings of ten or more people.

Red Bull Manny Mania – Skateboard Competition on June 11 in Jeffreys Bay

Manny Mania is searching for the most skilled skateboarder across the globe. Competitions will take place in more than 30 countries on six continents. This is the largest amateur skating competition in South Africa where skater will show their tricks in 4 different locations:

The winner of each country will meet at the final in New York City on August 20.

Shaun Payne beats older brother Ryan to claim the Xcel Pro title at Supertubes

The Xcel Pro Showdown was held on June 2 2011 at Supertubes and it was Shaun Payne who overcame his older brother Ryan in the final, in the process ending his sibling’s hopes of claiming a hat-trick of titles in the event.

Shaun managed to find higher scores in the dying swell to snatch victory and the first prize of R10 000 cash, a styling PU 51-30 Nixon watch and perhaps most importantly, a coveted slot into the Von Zipper Superheat – which affords the winner a wildcard into the Billabong Pro J-Bay Dream Tour event scheduled for next month.

ALISON SMITH MARRIED ADRIAN KANTOR (CHOPPER) ON THE 19TH MAY 2011, IN BUCKINGHAMSHIRE UK

James Wylie and Ilona Plews married on the 30th April at St Francis Links

Liezl Clause hosted 60 of the lady wedding guests at the links conference centre for the Royal wedding the day before.

Based in london James and Ilona are both in the advertising business - James said the only place in the world they wanted for their wedding was St Francis Bay

They flew back to london 2 days after the wedding via the rain forrests of Borneo where they are having their honeymoon.

James Blunt – Some Kind of Trouble Tour live in Port Elizabeth

James Blunt will be performing live in Nelson Mandela Bay when he returns to South Africa to headline 3 national dates as part his ‘Some Kind of Trouble World Tour.’ The tour kicks off at the ICC Durban Arena on Wednesday 24th of August, followed by a performance at the Coca-Cola Dome Johannesburg on the 26th of August before coming to Port Elizabeth on Sunday the 28th where he will perform at the Vodacom NMMU Indoor Arena.

“Blunt’s first album, “Back to Bedlam,” catapulted him into worldwide superstardom with such hits as “You’re Beautiful,” “High” and “Goodbye My Lover”.” Blunt’s second album, 2007’s “All the Lost Souls,” debuted at No. 1 in 10 countries, selling nearly 5 million copies globally and featuring such hits as “1973,” ”Same Mistake” and “Carry You Home.” He has received numerous awards and accolades including two Brit Awards, two World Music Awards, two MTV Video Music Awards, an MTV European Music Award and five Grammy nominations.

His latest album “Some Kind of Trouble” starts a new chapter. Produced mainly by Steve Robson, key tracks include ‘’So Far Gone”, “Superstar” and “Stay the Night; where Blunt joined songwriting forces with OneRepublic’s Ryan Tedder.
Tickets are available at R 272 to R 426 at Computicket

Local surfers and skaters join aid campaign for nuclear disaster in Japan

The tragic images of the Japan earthquake and tsunami rocked the world. Perhaps even worse is the ongoing disaster from the damaged nuclear power stations. Most of the devastated areas are located at prime surf breaks and surfers in Jeffreys Bay decided to do something to help.
Coordinated by Christian Surfers South Africa, surfers from the community rallied around a Japan aid project by raising money by either paddling, walking or skating the full length of the Point from Boneyards to Albatross on Saturday 1st May.

Organiser Roy Harley said before the event “We wanted to raise awareness of both the dangers of nuclear power stations as highlighted by this disaster as well as the plight of the local people in Japan.”

Some 30 surfers paddled (and surfed) their way down the point and another 40 walked and skated alongside. A highlight was the surfers and walkers forming a two circle at Supertubes in memory of, and in solidarity with, the lost in Japan, including some 300 surfers unaccounted for.
Local resident Bradley Jones said “It was great to make a stand against a nuclear power station here in our town.” Visiting surfer Mark Edwards from Capetown commented “Paddling together felt great as we were surfers giving something back to those who have lost everything lost in Japan”.

Christian Surfers is an international organization committed to serving the surfing community, including Japan where they are currently doing aid work in the Iwaki region. All funds raised will be managed by CS Japan and go directly to those in need.
Thyspunt Alliance is a local organization committed to resisting the proposal for a nuclear power station to be built at Thyspunt.
Roy Harley added “Considering the short time frame in which we organized the event, we had a great turn out. As a community we wanted to let people know we care for those suffering in Japan and don’t ever want to see this potential for suffering happening here in J’Bay.” (source: Jbay News)

Boost your system for the winter with magic lemons

There are many health benefits of lemons that have been known for centuries. The two biggest are lemons’ strong antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-boosting powers and their use as a weight loss aid because lemon juice is a digestive aid and liver cleanser. Lemons contain many substances--notably citric acid, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C, bioflavonoids, pectin, and limonene--that promote immunity and fight infections.
These are well-known health facts about lemons. But there’s so much more to this little yellow fruit. Research has shown that lemon balm has a calming effect and therefore may be able to help remove fatigue, exhaustion, dizziness, anxiety, nervousness, and tension. If you suffer from skin infection such as eczema, a lemon wrap may offer relief. Lemon juice is also an excellent treatment for dandruff and greasy hair.

Whether you use them in the form of juice, teas, drinks, dressings, poultices or in the bath, take advantage of the lemons’ natural healing power.

Celebrate Mother’s Day!

My Mother, my friend so dear
throughout my life you're always near.
A tender smile to guide my way
You're the sunshine to light my day.

The Silver Creek Mountain Band plays at Potter’s Place on May 2

The Silver Creek Mountain Band has been mesmerizing South African audiences with their unique style and acoustic instruments for over 30 years.

Silver Creek covers all kinds of music consisting of English, Irish, Scottish and American tunes from the sixties folk revival period. Although they play through amplifiers Silver Creek promises to stay true to their acoustic roots. If a laid back evening of good old fashion music is your scene, Silver Creek will fulfill your highest expectations.

You will want to hear their stories and you will want to hear them sing. You will want to meet Rod and you will want to tell about that day. Meet them at Potter’s Place on 2nd May 2011.

For more info on the band and some interesting old photos take a look a www.silvercreekmountainband.co.za or their Facebook page.
Time: 18:30 for 20:00 - Ticket price: R60 per person – for bookings please call: 042 293 2500

Whale watching will boost Kouga tourism industry

Last week the first and only Boat Based Whale Watching permit was awarded to the local St Francis Whale Watch cc. This is exactly what was missing from the Bay and will attract more visitors to the beautiful Kouga area to watch the mammals closely from a boat. The boat will operate from Port St Francis and can take groups of 16 people to get as close as possible to the variety of whales and dolphins in the area, such as humpback whales, killer whales, bride whales, bottle nose and humpback dolphins. The picturesque harbour of St Francis offers luxury accommodation and a good choice of seafood restaurants to cater for local and international tourists.

The whale season is about to start and charter operator and guide, Tim Christy, is excited to kick off with his first tour. He made sure to fulfill all the requirements in terms of safety, qualification, trained staff and the right vessel to obtain the permit. There will be signage along the N2 to promote the whale watching in Port St Francis and local businesses will profit from this new tourist attraction.

Tri The Beloved Country - Phase 2 - 2230 km of Mountain Biking

After almost of 900 km of running, Kim van Kets, the multisports women, is now in phase 2 of her adventure and is on the mountain bike cycling everyday between 50 and 100 km and this will last for one month. The cycling route started at Ponta do Ouro at the border of Mozambique and she is currently in Musina heading up along the border of Botswana. Kim will cycle in total 2230 km all along the frontier until the border of Namibia and then going South to the Orange River where she continues her race paddling in her kayak to Oranjemund. From there she will start running again along the West and Cape Coastline to finish in East London. The transition from running to cycling will not be easy as Kim does not consider herself a natural cyclist. Her husband, Pete van Kets, and friends are able to accompany her on parts of her race and give her support and motivation. The goal of her expedition is to cover over 5500 km of running, cycling and paddling to raise funds for the Carel du Toit Centre (Eastern Cape) and showing the potential and beauty of South Africa.

Top rating for St Francis Bay Golf Courses

Golf Digest South Africa announced the Top-100 Golf courses in South Africa at an awards luncheon recently in Johannesburg. Despite high competition the St Francis Links was again rated in the top 10 of South African golf courses. St Francis Links has made its mark in the golfing world with acclaim coming from all over the world says CEO Jeff Clause. This year the St Francis Bay Golf Club proudly made it back into the Top 100 golf courses in SA, these achievements will guarantee St Francis Bay a steady influx of golfers from within the country and also abroad. Congratulations!!

Easter Events

22 April - 1 May Calamari Festival at Port St Francis

Don’t miss out on this fun event at the port for families, locals and tourists. There is a varied programme full of sport, music , food and kids entertainment which can be enjoyed over the Easter period.

The kids will love the big jump and slide and the big wave slide as well as workshops. A night market will be held on the 22 April & 29 April with stalls, entertainment and food from the restaurants at the port on offer. The sporting programme will include a canoe challenge on the Kromme river, a swim, a mtb night ride and a 10 km walk. Meet the Easter Bunny on Easter Sunday at the port. Ocean cruises, boat rides, jet ski rides as well as shore sport and rescue demonstrations will be carried out.

For detailed info and the final programme please check www.portstfrancis.co.za soon. Any person interested can contact Tracy Johnstone at Coast and Country or Esti Stewart on 073 825 0835.

24 April Family Easter Sunday Carvery at the Links

Mouthwatering traditional fare at this prime location. Adults get a welcome cocktail and for kids there is an Easter egg hunt & a jumping castleR 135 per adult / R 70 per child under 12 Booking essential.

22 Apr 2011 - 25 Apr 2011 Splash Festival in Port Elizabeth

Nelson Mandela Bay Splash Festival is again to be held in PE, Eastern Cape and offers a full programme of events such as the World Cup Surf Ski challenge, the World Inflatable Boat Championships, a volleyball tournament, a traditional Easter egg hunt, live entertainment including performances by well known South African artists, a fireworks display, kiddies adventure zone and a food & craft market.

For more information contact: Magnetic Storm +27 (0)41 393-4800 or Zports Event Management +27 (0)41 582-2575 or visit http://www.splashfestival.com

BloodScan Surf Series at Kitchen Windows in Jbay

The surfing event and series was launched by BloodScan Africa on April 10 in Jeffreys Bay with the aim of showcasing the benefits of a wellness orientated and outdoor lifestyle to kids around the country. The Eastern Province has always been a great breeding ground for surfing in South Africa and the BloodScan Surf Series delivers a platform for talented surfers in the U13 to U17 age groups to showcase their skills, and gain recognition for their mastery of and dedication to the sport of Surfing. Graham ‘Hynsie’ Hynes (SA surfing legend, National Team Coach for over 20 years) spent most of the day talking to the surfers and sharing his experience. The event also attracted twenty-year-old Springbok surfer Dale Staples (St Francis and pro surfer) who this year achieved 3rd place in the World Pro Juniors, who also came down to meet the surfers and chat to the kids.

The event is a big victory for the Eastern Cape, BloodScan are committed to holding the series every year for the foreseeable future. The next event is in St. Francis Bay on the 8th of May and we’d love to see you there. For more information on the Surf Series, you can visit www.bloodscan.co.za or emailinfo@bloodscan.co.za.

From left to right Dylan Lightfoot 1st Place u17 boys, Emma Smith 1st Place u17 girls Tahra Uren 1st Place u15 girls, Joshe Faulkner 1st Place u13 boys, Mathew McGillivray 1st Place u15 boys, Kai Woolf 1st Place u13 girls

Greanpeace adds weight to Thyspunt anti nuclear campaign.

Greenpeace has urged South Africa to adopt more renewable energy, in particular solar power, to create jobs, help the environment and save money instead of building six new nuclear power stations.
Greenpeace has strongly condemned a "bizarre" decision by cabinet to include 9600 MW of additional nuclear energy into South Africa's new energy plan.
"In the light of the Japanese nuclear crisis, governments and people around the world are asking themselves if nuclear power is worth the risk and human suffering."
"Apart from nuclear, the role that coal will play in South Africa's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2010) will also increase, through two of the biggest coal-fired power stations in the world (Medupi and Kusile)," the group's nuclear expert, Rianne Teule, said in a statement on Friday.

"For South Africa's cabinet to have taken this bizarre decision, it must have been meeting in isolation for days without any access to the news.

Teule said the government was asking the nuclear industry "where to sign" while South Africans were not being consulted on the decision at all.

"South Africans living near the potential sites for new nuclear reactors must be wondering where they could go if an accident like this happened here.

"Greenpeace urges government to rethink its coal and nuclear plans; rather it should be working towards a true energy revolution by investing in energy efficiency and renewable energies."

Teule said although the new plan seemed to indicate a positive and substantial increase in renewable energy in the next 20 years, it was "still not good enough
Greenpeace Africa climate campaigner Melita Steele added: "South Africa is blessed with some of the best solar resources in the world, and yet more than 90% of the country's electricity comes from low grade coal. To avoid being left behind, South Africa must start investing in renewable energy now. (source: Fin24.com)

Successful fund raiser for the penguins at Jbay Golf Day

The golf day was organised by Jbay members of the St Francis Bay Bird Club to raise funds for the rehabilitation centre at the Cape St Francis light-house which is taking care of sick or injured penguins without any general funding, they mainly depend on donations. The amount of R 10 800 and was handed over at the prize-giving ceremony to Trudi Malan, operations manager of the Penguin Rehabilitation Centre. 101 golfers took part in the competition and enjoyed the sunny day. Sponsors from Jeffreys Bay, Humansdorp, Port Elizabeth and St Francis Bay contributed great prizes to make the day attractive. Master of ceremonies, Ria Bestbier, was more than happy with the outcome and thanked all supporters for making the day a success. Retha Snyman, organiser of the golf day, is hoping to make this event an annual one. The numbers of the African Penguin are in decline mainly due to water pollution through oil spills. Also penguin eggs are considered a delicacy and are still being collected for sale. The removal of guano for use as fertiliser are also threats affecting their survival.
For more information on the rescue centre please check:http://www.penguin-rescue.org.za/

1 April 2011

Five Elements wins Best Restaurant in the Eastern Cape Award

The Eastern Cape Conservation & Tourism Board awarded Five Elements the Excellence in Tourism Award, Best Restaurant 2011

St. Francis Bay, Eastern Cape, 31st March 2011: Five Elements Restaurant in St. Francis Bay, Eastern Cape was selected as one of three finalists for the 2011 Eastern Cape Conservation and Tourism Awards in the category of Best Restaurant. After a lengthy nomination and judging process, the award was presented to owner, Charles Black, at a black-tie dinner at the International Convention Center in East London on Thursday 24th of March 2011

“The entire event made me exceptionally proud to be living in such a beautiful province where so much of our cultural & natural diversity was showcased. I cannot express how thankful I am to all the parties involved who have been instrumental in Five Elements achieving such a wonderful accolade after only being open for only 10 months. Receiving this award makes all our hard work only become far more intense as guests expectations will be higher and we now have to focus on maintaining and raising the bar at Five Elements.”, mentioned Charles. A challenge the staff at Five Elements is looking forward to.

Five Elements, a 60 seater restaurant, is set amongst the newly planted vineyards and natural forest adjacent to the runway at the airpark in St. Francis Bay. Access is from St. Francis Drive.

Charles moved back to South Africa three years ago from Virginia, where he was director of guest services for one of only four double five star/five diamond restaurants in the United States to begin the project in St. Francis Bay with his family.
Charles has a passion for food, especially for fresh local produce and are focused on providing only what is available seasonally. Five Elements have intentionally limited their freezer space and over-enlarged the cold room to accommodate fresh ingredients. “We want interesting, fresh and exciting food to be fun and enjoyable……and most importantly accessible to everyone so that we can hopefully share our passion for dining.”.

29 March 2011

Tri-The Beloved Country – Kim is still going strong

It is almost one month since Kim started her journey from Nahoon Beach at East London. In her first leg of running she tries to cover 50 – 100 km per day along the Wild and Natal Coastline up to Ponta do Ouro. This is only one part of her total trip of 5500 km of running, biking and kayaking. On day 16 she arrived in Durban which was a big milestone on her trip. She only allows herself one day of rest during a week of daily running. Luckily her husband, Peter, and other friends join her along the way giving encouragement. She is now on her way from St Lucia to Cape Tidal.

So far she has been able to stick to her schedule but not without difficulties. The high temperatures and humidity have not made it easy to keep on track. A torn calf muscle, sunburned lips, infected insect bites and swimming through rivers are only some of the struggles endured. Many people will ask themselves:Why on earth would you go through all of that deliberately?

This journey first of all brings great and positive experiences: Seeing beautiful and unspoilt nature, meeting old friends and new people, getting support from the locals and local runners all the way along the coast, spending quality time with your family after the run and raising funds for the Carel du Toit centre. It is the passion and the love for her country and its people which encourage Kim to keep running. This is her way to share her experience and show the beauty of South Africa to the rest of the world. Keep on running, Kim.

You can follow her route via her blog with fotos and comments under http://kimvankets.com

23 March 2011

Farewell to Sam Mieny

This Monday afternoon a crowd gathered at the Point in Jeffreys Bay for a paddle out. They were there for a certain reason: In commemoration of an old friend …Sam Mieny. Friends & family got together to scatter his ashes into the ocean.

Sam came to Jeffreys Bay from Cape Town in 1986, while in JBay he used to entertain the locals at the Savoy bar on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights and everybody loved his live performances. He was a talented entertainer and musician with a powerful voice. He will be remembered for being also a passionate surfer and fisherman. He left Jbay to move to Seal Point in the mid 1990’s where he spent most of the past 15 years. He continued to perform his music along the coast.

Sam passed away in Cape Town on March 15 due to complications related to a diabetic condition. His sister Sally-Ann Creed took care of him during the last week of his life. He will be dearly missed by his daughter Jasmin, family and friends…

RIP Sam

Black Gold will boost your flower and garden growth

Black Gold is the end product of the composting that the worm of the moment, the Red Wriggler, does. Worm compost is 5 times richer in nitrogen, 7 Times richer in phosphates and 11 times richer in potash than the average top soil. It is an outstanding, nutrient-rich organic fertilizer and soil conditioner!

Instead of throwing away organic waste such as vegetables and fruit peelings and putting it in the garbage disposal, think about putting them into a worm compost bin. Biological recycling of organic wastes in to compost for the soil is the greenest way to participate in mother nature's cycle and this is what these little guys do best! Worms are not for the squeamish but they sure do a good job of composting.

The compost bin consists of 2 levels: The top bin contains foodstock and worms and the bottom bin is the drip tray. The bottom bin collects the liquid which is used for plants, flowers and vegetable garden. Important is too dilute the liquid in a ratio of 1:20 when using it for watering.

Worm composting is fun for the whole family. The kids will love it; thinking of the Red Wigglers as pets - teaching them the great importance of recycling and growing plants.

Starter bins contain usually around 1000 worms and can be ordered ready made under: +27 (0)71 525 5358

St Francis Bay Community Home Care offers service to community

The public benefit organisation, St Francis Bay Community Home Care (SFB CHC), was formed on 1st June last year and now has 79 members. Their service includes home care for terminally-ill, 24-hour care for Alzheimer patients, sleep in care for persons needing assistance after a hospital stay or illness. Volunteers are available to help patients with daily tasks such as shopping, cleaning, changing library books and even simple handy work. Also there are 25 caretakers and two enrolled nurses at the organisation’s disposal.

The non profit organisation is charging the costs for the carers at medical aid rates which are refundable for patients with medical aid covering home care.

The nursing manager, Sister Janet Bevan, and current treasurer, Di le Roux, work on a voluntary basis and operate from their homes. They would like to establish a pubic office soon. The organisation is looking for supporters by signing up as a member. The subscription is only R50 per month and is helping people in need.
Brochures on the service and membership application forms can be obtained at the information kiosk opposite the entrance to Spar in the St Francis Village Square.

For more information please contact via phone 042 294 0497 or via emailsfbchc@mweb.co.za

The New Outdoor Specialists – Away Adventures

The Kouga region boasts some of the most spectacular natural treasures in the world. The last frontier of outdoor exploration is right on our doorstep and not many people are equipped or informed on accessing these gems. Harry Bateman and Hercules du Plooy have spent the last 20 years developing and facilitating adventure experiences in the Kouga region, creating awareness around ecological diversity, the disastrous threats to our environment and the raw beauty and spirit of the wild.

We help people who need the tranquility of nature, rediscover their inner peace, by facilitating the thrill of exploration on the mountains, rivers and dams that are still so wild. The excitement of outdoor camping, fishing, fire side cooking and good company, reignites some of the joys of life once again and the exercise is great for the body,” says Harry, a man who knows about dealing with health and stress issues.

The packages range from half day single adventures, to full day multi adventure and multi-day super adventure, which uses existing extreme adventure operators when travelling out along the Garden Route or Sunshine Coast. Completely unique excursions into the Baviaanskloof or Kouga are coordinated by Harry or Herki and are tailored to suit every group with the focus on wilderness dependent use, enhancing the conservation of wilderness. Transport is provided in Defender and Land Rover Discovery’s that can go anywhere and bring everything, making rugged terrain an exciting journey. Their mobility makes it easy to pick up from anywhere local and explorer trailers pack the load so groups can go unsupported for many days, carrying everything including the kitchen sink.

Corporate groups enjoy the multi-discipline approach of Earth/Water/Air/Fire challenges which uses these elements to ground groups and they bond like family while challenged by choice. We take them to these absolutely beautiful places and reflect the wonder and love for our environment, grow their team building finesse and connect with each other and their environment while kayaking, climbing, trekking or exploring by foot or 4x4.” Harry says.

Trips range as far as George, the Langkloof, Kouga, St Francis Bay, JBay and Baviaanskloof. Best to book well in advance as adventures are tailored, flexible and always going, allowing for diverse packages to be run. “Having a good time depends on comfort and whether you are flexible enough to change the adventure slightly, and we’ve got that sorted” says Harry, beaming a smile. “There is not much you can do about the weather, other than make it work for your group in a special way, by adapting around the elements challenging you and turning it into your favour, awaiting that special moment when mother earth says – “watch this...”.

For more info please visit the webpage: www.awayadventures.com or phone +27 (0)76 168 1288

16 March 2011

Come and join the weekly Canal Time Trials and other paddling events. Beginners are welcome.

St Francis residents are very fortunate to have ideal paddling conditions: protected easy canals for beginners, more challenging river for longer distances, and the sea which can be very flat at times, and at times extremely challenging, with the ultimate paddling experience of a downwind with a westerly gale to JBay.

We often hear locals say they are keen to start paddling, but we seldom see them on the water. If you are at all interested, please come along on a Wednesday afternoon. It is a great way to keep fit …. and you could soon be paddling the best canoe race in South Africa, the Fish River marathon, just up the road in Cradock, in October.

Everybody is invited to join the upcoming paddling opportunities:

1. Canal Time Trials, Small Boat Harbour, 5.30pm every Wednesday. 3km, 5km, 8km or 10km. Mickey Sadler, ex Springbok paddler will be there to coach paddling technique, particularly for beginners.
2. St Francis Bay Paddling Club: Two relatively new St Francis paddlers, Chris Opperman and Martin Potgieter, are planning to start a formal paddling club. Come and hear their plans this Wednesday at 7pm at Christys Catch after paddling.
3. Pam Golding St Francis Equinox Surfski Challenge, St Francis Main Beach, 10am Sunday 20 March 2011 (this Sunday). 6km or 15km. R40 per paddler (R30 to NSRI)
4. Pam Golding Easter Kromme River Challenge, 9am Saturday 23 April 2011.
5. Winter races: there will be at least two paddling races during the winter, one offshore and one in the canals or river.
6. Canoe Racks at the Canal Harbour are available @R300 per rack for two years. One set of eight have been built by Garth Perry and he will soon build another eight.

For more information please contact Richard Arderne at 083 284 0168 or visit the webpage www.stfrancissport.co.za

Dan Patlansky at Potters on March 16

“What Dan Patlansky can do with a six-string Fender Stratocaster at the age of 26, most critically acclaimed guitarists will never quite achieve in a lifetime.
In only ten years on the music scene, Dan Patlansky is one of the busiest and most respected blues artists to ever come out of South Africa. Constant touring as a teenager, won Dan the hearts of even the most hardened blues critics. In the winter of 2001, “Standing at the Station”was released, being a completely independent album, many were surprised at its amazing success.
After receiving word that “Readers Choice” had voted him “Best Blues Guitarist in Southern Africa”, it was time for a second release. “True Blues”was produced and released by EMI on the famed “Blue Note label” in 2004. Dan is one of the only South Africans to ever achieve “Blue Note” status. “
I can’t add any more praise to this truly praise worthy guy-you have to listen and appreciate it for yourself.

Get fit for the sporty events in March…

Magiclight Day and Night Trail Run and MTB Ride on March 19

The event takes place at Port St Francis and the run/ride will start from there going toward Otters Landing, the Francis Field and back to the Port. At 16.30 pm the junior runners will start a 5km circular route. One hour later the riders will go the same route and try to do the most laps in one hour. Later a night ride with the same format will start from 8 pm where headlamps have to be worn.

The Pam Golding Equinox Surfski Challenge on March 20

The Blue Water Canoe Club will be supporting the next surfski race in St Francis Bay. The start time is 10 am on the St Francis Bay Main Beach. The long course will be approximately 15 km and the short course about 6 km.

Beach Marathon on March 21

The annual 19 km walk/run will start from Jeffreys Bay at the Sunflower Coffee at 9 am and will end at Christies Catch in St Francis Bay. There is also a 40 km mountain bike ride at the same time following a different route through dirt road, a beach section and some tarred road.

For more information on the sport events please check at www.stfrancissport.co.za

Kouga area still in drought

Despite the recent rain the dam levels are still perilously low, please use water sparingly and think about installing a greywater system if you don't have one all ready.

Kim’s amazing adventure starts on March 1 - 3300 km of Running, 2230 km of Mountain Biking, 500 km of Kayaking

Today, a South African woman - Kim van Kets - trail runner and sportswoman extraordinaire, – will start attempting a major sporting quest: to run, cycle and paddle around the perimeter of South Africa. The „Tri-The Beloved Country“ will be an amazing journey and at the same time possibly the most physical challenge that any South African woman has undertaken - four months and 5 500kms through some of the world’s most testing terrain.

Kim will start her journey from East London running along the coastlines of Natal and the Transkei to Ponta do Ouro in Mozambique; second, a mountain biking trek along the inland borders to the Orange River, then finally paddling to Oranjemund and another run along the West and Cape coastline to finish in East London. She is planning to cover between 50 and 100km per day.

The Tri-The Beloved Country will be extremely physically challenging, exhaustion, injuries, blisters and exposure to the elements will be some of the difficulties endured. Kim’s husband, Peter van Kets, and their 5 year old daughter, Hannah, will support her by accompanying her in an off road camper van during the expedition. The camper van will be fully branded with sponsors logos and will be a very visible presence on South Africa’s roads and in the major towns and cities for the four month duration of the journey.

Her intention is to raise funds for the Carel du Toit Centre (Eastern Cape) and to focus on the great potential of South Africa. She would like to draw the South African public's attention to the fact that it is worth staying home or resettling here.

A travel diary, text and visuals will be maintained for the duration of the expedition with regular transmissions toTV channels, print media, websites and weblogs. The media coverage is expected to generate widespread interest over a very broad consumer base. The quest will appeal to every “Proudly South African” person. Those logging onto this website daily and participating in the weblogs will include; armchair adventurers, paddlers, runners, cyclists, families and young adults particularly women.

GOOD LUCK KIM!

FRANK SMITH CELEBRATES HIS 70TH BIRTHDAY IN STYLE AT ST FRANCIS LINKS

Friends from the UK made the long journey to St Francis Bay and joined the many friends who live and work in the St Francis area to enjoy the festivities.

A magnificent buffet and braai was prepared by Bradley and the Links staff and a splendid Birthday Cake was created by Cindy at the Viking Bakery.

Fantastic music, fantastic weather and fantastic views made Party perfection.

Thank you St Francis Bay.

Fran & Frank have been coming to St Francis from the UK for 10 years having purchased a property in an outstanding location from Lionel Donnelly a local big wig. You really have to visit here to appreciate the splendor of this wonderful locale.

Thyspunt Eco Walk or Cycle on March 5

The 15,2 km circular walk or cycle will start from Oyster Bay going to Thyspunt. Alternatively there is a 12 km coastal walk to Thyspunt or a shorter 4 km circular route.
Participants are welcome to meet at the Oyster Bay Main Beach gate at 8.00 am on 5th of March for the start.
The entry fee is R50 and tickets can be bought in advance from Willem Kriel Brokers in the St Francis Bay Village Centre or at Bumble Bee in the St Francis Industrial Area.

For more information & advertising contact Herman at 082 741 2733

Quiksilver Pro Junior & King of the Groms Set for Durban's Beachfront Once Again 22-24 April 2011

Durban will once again play host to the Quiksilver Pro Junior and King of the Groms surfing contests. The 2 star ASP Pro Junior is in its fourth year and will see South Africa’s top contingent of junior surfers battling it out for a share of the US$ 10, 000 prize money and valuable ASP points on offer at North Beach.

Klee Strachan, Kyle Lane and Shaun Joubert are all former winners of the event and this year is set to be the most competitive field to date. Beyrick de Vries (Umhlanga), Dale Staples (St. Francis), David van Zyl (Durban), Davey Brand (Cape Town), Remi Peterson(J-Bay) and Steven Sawyer (J-Bay) are all surfing unbelievably well and are eager to put their names on the US$ 2, 500 winner’s check.

North Beach is a very consistent beach break with multiple random peaks and is the perfect arena for spectators to get up close and personal when the action heats up in the water. The points on offer will count towards crowning the 2010 ASP Africa Junior Champion.
The Quiksilver King of the Groms is a PST (Pro Surf Tour) U16, U14 and U12 event that is sanctioned by Surfing South Africa. The U16 age group is the premier division in the event and the winner of the division will receive R5 000 cash and a berth into the International King of the Groms which will be held in France in October at the Quiksilver Pro France World Tour event.

All the winners’ expenses including flights for the surfer and his coach as well as accommodation and meals will be covered by Quiksilver. The event will be held at Durban’s North Beach alongside the Quiksilver Pro Junior.

Last year saw Scottburgh’s Slade Prestwich taking the win over Kommetjie’s Jarred Veldhuis in small contestable conditions. Slade went on to place 3rd in France at the international finals while gaining valuable international exposure and experience.
Slade will be the favourite going into the 2011 edition of the event but will have the likes of Dylan Lightfoot (Jeffreys Bay), Diran Zakarian (Melkbos Strand), Max Armstrong (Cape Town) and Benji Brand (Cape Town) to contend with.

Post Office in new premises at Village Square

The St Francis Bay post office moved to its new premises in the Village Square above Spar. The new location is an improvement after all and branch manager Deon Anderson is happy about the more space,  air conditioning and also more storage space. The premises offers a manager’s office, a staffroom, a storeroom for parcels and consumables, a walk in safe, an archive room, toilets for men and women and a large circulation room for sorting.
There will be more post boxes accessible from the upper parking level with weather protection and lights. Four counters have been established inside, one also for disabled persons. The reception area is bright and well lit according to  ISO standards. Bullet proof glass separating customers from staff have been installed for safety reasons and also steel boxes for transferring parcels at each counter. The safety interlocking doors allow only one persons at a time to pass through.
New post boxes have ordered from Pretoria and their arrival is being awaited.  Other issues such as electric wiring have to be completed before a fully functioning operation of the post office can start. Currently the post is still being sorted at the old post office and distributed to the customers’s boxes there. At present letters for mail posting have to be handed in at the post office in office hours. After hours it can be handed in at the security desk outside the new post office.

St Francis Kromme Trust needs support to oppose wind farm development

Several wind farms are being planned for the Kouga area "to help stabilise the energy supply to the area and assist the local economy in developing a greater degree of energy security". Compared to the environmental effects of traditional energy sources, the environmental effects of wind power upon greenhouse gases are minor; however, there are other adverse impacts of wind power including bird mortality. One of the proposed farms is North of the Kromme River.

The Trust is concerned about the impact the huge wind turbines might have on people, tourism and the nature in the area. Especially on the bird life of the wetland areas between Jeffreys Bay and the Kromme which is home to a variety of species and endangered birds including the Blue Crane, Denham’s Bustard, Greater Flamingo and African Marsh-harrier forage, waterfowls and veld birds. Thousand of bats and birds die every year after flying into the wind turbines. The proposed wind farm north of the Kromme River is regarded to be unsuitable and the Trust is looking for support of all inhabitants in the area and also those from Jeffreys Bay to unite and oppose the wind farm development.

Please email your objection to Jesse Jegels at jjegels@gibb.co.za and state the reference number EIA 12/12/20/1756, Kouga Wind Farm. The email should include your name and contact details, comments can be made until February 22. For more information please contact Maggie Langlands of the St Francis Kromme Trust at 042 294 1075 or 082 458 8063.

14 February 2011