Susan Deacon Properties Blog

SDP NEWS CAFE

2009-04-28T05:27:00.001-07:00

THE SUSAN DEACON PROPERTIES BLOG HAS BEEN IMPROVED AND IS NOW PUBLISHED AS OUR OWN NEWS PORTAL.

Visit and join our online news portal with forums, news, events, accommodation, etc. at

www.sdpnewscafe.com

Weekly News - 20 April 2009

2009-04-21T08:12:00.001-07:00

With the elections this week in South Africa and the many holidays we are having in the months of April and May, most businesses and employees are taking some rest over these days. However at Susan Deacon Properties we never have easy days and are 24/7 searching for opportunities to improve our service to our clients, associates, collogues and networking partners.

To keep youbetter updated and all those who are Twittering, you can now follow us on Twitter and be updated on a daily base. Those on Facebook, remember to follow our Facebook Group and join our Facebook Fan Page.

We have teamed up with one of SA's leading business brokers offering you the best investment opportunities in the realty business sales department. Looking for a business, let us know and we will source you the best opportunity to match your needs. Make your dream come true, be you own boss and have your own business.

Sellers remember to make sure your property is listed with us. We are part of the biggest networking groups in the industry. Be sure of the best service at all times and for all your real estate needs, we've got you covered.

Keep reading our news updates for the next few weeks for newly launched websites from Susan Deacon Properties.

CONTENTS
1. Prinicpal choice
2. New release property
3. FIFA World Cup Trophy tour
4. Telkom and AT&T
5. ANC holds Twitter debate
6. Electrical certificates
7. Ina Paarman's - Dessert treat

PRINICIPAL CHOICE- PLETTENBERG BAY

ONE OF THE LAST

One of the last large farms in the area. 260ha with pastures, fynbos & forest. River runs through the property. Large dam. Three bedroom "Old Cape Dutch" home with wooden floors. Second three bedroom home, several staff cottages and outbuildings.
R12 000 000
ID4046

PLETTENBERG BAY

North facing, modern four bedroom home with exceptional views over the farm, the greater Bitou Valley and the mountains. Spacious entertainment areas are complimented not only by the exceptional views but also by a beautiful garden and sparkling pool. A separate two bedroom flat and a second two bedroom cottage ensures that guests can be entertained in style. Good soils, registered water from river, a wonderful vlei and riverside complete with deep waterholes.

R8 500 000
ID4047

PLETTENBERG BAY

3 bedroomed river front home on 6ha. Sep 2 bed cottage and large shed. Very pretty area,private river frontage.

R8 500 000
ID4048

GEORGE

Large home with 3 living rooms, BBQ room, kitchen, laundry, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, double garage PLUS flat with 1 Bedroom, 1 bathroom, lounge and kitchen.

R1 495 000
ID4051

FIFA WORLD CUP TROPHY TOUR

The most coveted icon in world football will spread excitement throughout Africa later this year when the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola takes an unprecedented journey across the continent in anticipation of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
The Coca-Cola Company and FIFA today announced details of the route which will span more than 50 countries during the course of a 70-day tour that will afford thousands of Africans an opportunity enjoy a rare close up view of the coveted trophy.

The initial four-month long leg of the Trophy Tour kicks off in Cairo in September 2009 and will draw to a close in Cape Town in December, around the time of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Finals draw.

At events in each city, fans will have the opportunity to have a souvenir photo taken of themselves with the trophy, view a special 3-D movie showcasing memorable moments of the FIFA World Cup, participate in interactive displays and enjoy other forms of entertainment.

The 2010 Trophy Tour draws on the huge success of the first global Trophy Tour held in 2006. The tour visited 31 cities in 29 countries, covering 63,734 miles (102,570 kilometres) with millions of fans around the world enjoying the chance to have a closer look at football’s most famous prize.

TELKOM AND AT&T

Telkom South Africa, the country's incumbent fixed line and broadband operator, has agreed to collaborate with US-based AT&T, connecting its South African infrastructure with AT&T's global network.
The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) which will allow companies based in Sub-Saharan Africa to connect to other global markets more effectively. Reuben September, CEO of Telkom, stated, 'This agreement will definitely contribute to our objective of expanding our leadership position beyond the borders of our country. The agreement will give impetus to Telkom's determination to expand geographically and become a fully fledged Pan-African operator.'

ANC HOLDS TWITTER DEBATE

In an effort to win votes in the week running up to South Africa's national and provincial elections on 22 April 2009, the African National Congress (ANC) is using Twitter, yet another online channel, in its electioneering efforts.

ANC national spokesperson Jessie Duarte will hold a live debate with the local and international Twitter community about the ANC's policies and positions around the imminent elections.

Twitter is a popular social networking site based on short messages shared between linked community members.

ELECTRICAL CERTIFICATES

New rulings regarding the issuing of electrical compliance certificates for residential properties effective from May 1 will simplify the demands made on sellers and buyers of residential property.

Lanice Steward, MD of Anne Porter Knight Frank, says that the regulations had traditionally made it mandatory for the seller of a property to give the purchaser a certificate confirming that the electrical installations were in working order.

This had meant that the seller had to call in a registered electrician to inspect the electrical network and issue a current certificate and this had to be done prior to the transfer.

Now, however, any certificate issued in the last two years will be deemed valid, provided that no work has been done on the installation in the interim. Furthermore, the buyer does not have the right to demand a new certificate. If he wants such a certificate he must pay for it himself.

The electricians issuing such certificates now have to re-register annually, whereas before a once-off registration was acceptable.

INA PAARMAN’S - DESSERT TREAT

MILK TART WITH APPLES
Serves 4 - 6
Download video

One of the best milk tart recipes! Smooth and creamy. The combination with apple makes it exceptional.
To give this crustless milk tart flavour and body we have incorporated some of our Vanilla Cake Mix. Use the remaining mix to make Chewy Sugar Biscuits.

MILK TART
2 cups (500 ml) milk
1 stick of cinnamon, broken up into long splinters
4 T (60 ml) butter
3 extra large eggs
1 cup (250 ml) Ina Paarman's Vanilla Cake Mix
¼ t (1 ml) almond essence

APPLE BASE
3 golden delicious apples, unpeeled
½ cup (125 ml) apple juice
2 t (10 ml) sugar
Wash the apples and slice them very thinly.

CINNAMON SUGAR TOPPING
¼ cup (50 g) sugar
1 t (5 ml) cinnamon

Mix and sprinkle over the milk tart before it goes into the oven.
Bring the milk and broken cinnamon to the boil. Cover, remove from the heat, leave to draw for 20 minutes and add then butter. Cook the sliced apples in apple juice and sugar for about 20 minutes. Dish it into a 25 cm pie dish and leave to cool. Preheat the oven to 180°C and set the oven rack in the middle position.
Prepare a paper collar using a long strip of greaseproof or newspaper that will fit right around the dish. Keep the collar ready on the side with two paper clips.
Remove the cinnamon stick from the milk. Separate the eggs - whip the whites to soft peak stage and keep it ready. Add a little of the warm milk to the yolks and then add the yolks and the Vanilla Cake Mix to the warm milk mixture in the pot. Add almond essence. Stir with a wire whisk just until the mixture starts to thicken on the bottom of the pot, immediately remove it from the heat and keep stirring, away from any heat, until the consistency is like a thickish yoghurt.
Add 1/3 of the beaten whites and stir it through with the whisk. Add the remaining egg white and gently fold it in with a spatula.

Dish it into the pie dish on top of the cooked apples. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over. Wrap the paper collar around the dish. Bake for 25 - 30 minutes until puffy. Switch off the oven (and the fan) and leave to stand in the oven to cool for 15 minutes. Best to keep the paper collar on until the tart has cooled down. This milk tart is easier to slice at room temperature.

DRIED APPLE SLICES (optional garnish)
¼ cup (50 g) sugar
¼ cup (60 ml) water

10 paper thin centre slices of apple (select from sliced apple)
Bring the sugar and water to the boil for 3 minutes. Dip apple slices into the syrup - place on baking paper and dry out at 160°C for ± 35 minutes.

VARIATION
If you want to bake the milk tart without the apple (it makes a lovely crustless milk tart) you must use a slightly smaller, 23 cm pie dish. It can be baked for the same length of time.

Ina Paarman on the web - www.paarman.co.za

Weekly News - 13 April 2009

2009-04-14T07:07:00.000-07:00

CONTENTS
1. Prinicpal choice
2. New development
3. Investec grabs 50 000 Confed Cup tickets
4. Posibble TV channel for 2010 WC
5. SA Shines at Maritzburg MTB Cup

PRINICIPAL CHOICE- COASTAL GAME RETREAT

TWO BRAND NEW HOMES ON THE SPECTACULAR NEWLY DEVELOPED LE GRAND GOLF ESTATE

Living on the Garden route coastal strip on this fabulous Game Ranch, close to the beach and all amenities. Have the best of both worlds offered to you in one complete package.

107 Hectare game ranch with development possibilities.

R8 100 000
ID4044

NEW DEVELOPMENT

MOSSEL BAY

Prime position and investment in the heart of the Garden Route. Live a secure lifestyle in the tranquil seaside village - Hartenbos. Ocean views, close to shopping centres, various layouts to choose from, 3 & 4 bedroom homes, starting at R899 000.

From R899 000

ID4033

PLETTENBERG BAY

Large stand of 2761m2 with riverfrontage.

R2 500 000
ID4028

PLETTENBERG BAY

Very good sea, lagoon and mountain views from this comfortable home walking distance from shopping centre and the beach. Renovated bathrooms and 2 fireplaces.

R2 490 000
ID4029

INVESTEC GRABS 50 000 CONFED CUP TICKETS

Specialist banking group Investec has bought 50,000 tickets for the 2009 Confederations Cup at a cost of R3.5 million.

The announcement was made at the international company's headquarters in Sandton, Johannesburg on Monday.

Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) Irvin Khoza thanked the company for showing their spirit of ubuntu. "We are telling the world there is unity ahead of the Confederations Cup and the 2010 World Cup," he said.

"Today Investec has demonstrated its investment dexterity and foresight. This is an investment in the integration of the people of this country and I have to thank them for showing this spirit of ubuntu," he said.

With little more than 60 days to go to the kick-off of the Confederations Cup, Khoza is confident that within two weeks all the tickets to this precursor to the World Cup will be sold out.

"With this action Investec showed us I am confident that others (companies) will follow and I say that in two weeks time the tickets will be sold out," he told the media

POSSIBLE TV CHANNEL FOR 2010 WC

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) says it has acquired the sophisticated infrastructure needed to bring the 2009 Fifa Confederations Cup and the subsequent 2010 Fifa World Cup to billions of fans worldwide.

The SABC is the official broadcast partner to both tournaments.

Acting SABC CEO Gab Mampone told the media last week that the national broadcaster was ready to broadcast the 16 Confederations Cup and 64 World Cup matches live.

"We've got our broadcasting strategy that will help us to modernise and enhance our infrastructure and I can readily say that we are ready for that and I can assure you that all the games will be live.

"We are getting two digital outside broadcasting vans they are arriving next month from Germany so that people who are outside the country they will be having a digital signal that will ensure that they receive a Direct-to-Home content during these games starting with the Confederations Cup," he said.

SA SHINES AT MARITZBURG MTB CUP
Enthusiastic crowds, way in excess of the organisers' expectations, ensured the opening round of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Pietermaritzburg was a huge success, and local favourite and world downhill champion Greg Minnaar thrilled the fans by racing to a sensational victory in the final event of the weekend.

Minnaar was not the only South African to excel. Burry Stander, from Port Shepstone on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast, turned in an outstanding performance in the men's cross country to finish third overall and first in the under-23 category.

INA PAARMAN’S WEEKNITE WINNER

BAKED PASTA WITH BROCCOLI, CAULIFLOWER & CHEESE
Serves 4 as main course

This family favourite is good served as a vegetarian main course with a well dressed tossed salad.
1½ cups (375 ml) screw noodles
boiling water
1 small cauliflower, broken into florets (about 1½ cups)
1 small punnet broccoli sliced into florets (about 1½ cups)
2-3 T (30-45 ml) olive oil
1½ t (7,5 ml) Ina Paarman's Potato Spice
1½ t (7,5 ml) Green Onion Seasoning
½ t (2,5 ml) grated nutmeg
1 x 400 ml Ina Paarman's Creamy Cheese Pasta Sauce
1 egg
4 T (60 ml) grated cheddar cheese
4 T fresh breadcrumbs

Preheat the oven to 180°C.

Boil the noodles in the boiling water for 5 minutes. Add the cauliflower and broccoli florets. Continue boiling for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender. Strain out the water and return pasta and vegetables to the saucepan. Toss with olive oil, seasonings and nutmeg. Dish into an ovenproof dish.

Mix the Creamy Cheese Pasta Sauce with the egg until well blended. Pour over the pasta. Mix the cheese and breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the top. Bake for about 35 minutes, until golden brown.

Ina Paarman on the web - www.paarman.co.za

Weekly News - 6 April 2009

2009-04-06T08:30:00.000-07:00

With the Easter weekend approaching and the school holidays here we at Susan Deacon Properties wish you asafe journey to your holiday destination. If you are in the Garden Route area, remember to schedule a visit to Oudtshoorn and enjoy the annual Klein Karoo National Arts Festival. Go to www.kknk.co.za to get a detailed schedule on all the activities on offer.

Then for the cooks and wanne be chefs, a special menu from Ina Paarman for the Easter Weekend. Go and spoil the family and have a special day.
CONTENTS
1. Prinicpal choice
2. Latest releases
3. Information centre
4. Prepare for 2010
5. Soccer 2010 World Cup
6. Telkom to inject Billions into network
7. No Mayor for Eden
8. Approval awaited for shopping centre
9. Who can tame the Otter Trail?
10. Ina Paarman's Easter Menu

PRINICIPAL CHOICE- LE GRAND GOLF ESTATE

TWO BRAND NEW HOMES ON THE SPECTACULAR NEWLY DEVELOPED LE GRAND GOLF ESTATE

Low maintenance home with sea and mountain view offering 2 living areas, open plan kitchen, 4 en-suite bedrooms, double garage and sparkling pool.

R3 900 000
ID4024

Low maintenance, double volume home with sea and mountain view in this prestigious Golf Estate offering 4 en-suite bedrooms, 2 spacious living areas, openplan kitchen, granite finishes, balcony and double garage.

R4 100 000
ID4025

GEORGE - DORMEHLSDRIFT

Golden oldie in popular suburb. Lounge, diningroom, braairoom, kitchen, laundry, study, patio, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, single garage PLUS spacious 1 bedrooms flat with open plan kitchen, diningroom, 1 bathroom (own entrance).

R1 295 000
ID4018

HEROLDS BAY - OUBAAI

Immaculate and spacious apartment on one of our top golf courses in the Garden Route. Mountain and golf course view. 2 Large en-suite bedrooms, spacious open plan lounge diningroom area with kitchen. Patio with stainless steel BBQ.

R3 780 000
ID4019

GEORGE - HEATHER PARK

Spacious low maintanance lock up and go. Open plan lounge / diningroom / kitchen, laundry, patio, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and double garage.

R1 499 000
ID4021

INFORMATION SESSION - TOURISM CHANCES FOR 2010

A recent information meeting session was held at Ilita Lodge where all accommodation es-tablishments were invited to bring additional accommoda¬tion providers to sign up for the FIFA 2010 Tourism Opportu¬nity so that the Garden Route can be showcased as a venue of choice for FIFA 2010.

Accommodation establish¬ments were approached and this opportunity gives Great Brak River, Mossel Bay, George, up to Plettenberg Bay the chance to participate in the provision of rooms for MATCH.

MATCH Services AG (MATCH) is the professional services company selected by FIFA to provide ticketing, ac¬commodation and event infor¬mation technology services to FIFA.

MATCH formed a wholly owned South African sub¬sidiary, MATCH Event Ser¬vices PTY, to operate local activities in South Africa in connection with the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

MATCH will also act as Fl¬ FA's agent in the sale of all tickets to all ticket customers. MATCH's main accommoda¬tion objective is to deliver a unique accommodation pro¬gramme in terms of quality, creativity, flexibility and an un¬matched capacity to meet mar¬ket needs.

They will also be responsible for negotiating terms and con¬ditions with the accommoda¬tion community in the host countries.

As this is part of the Gov¬ernment initiative of Tourism and Mossel Bay Tourism achieve active involvement u, to promote this opportunity all accommodation establishments, the presentation was facilitated so that everybody could become part of it. It is fantastic opportunity for the Garden Route to partake in the international hospitality industry.

For more information on FIVA 2010 / MATCH visit:
http: www.fifa.com/worldcup/organisation/matchhag/index.html.

PREPARE FOR 2010: WORKSHOP HELD

In preparation for 2010, Eden District Municipality invit¬ed MATCH, offi¬cial FIFA accredi¬ted accommodation agents, to hold a workshop with prospective accom¬modation owners to prepare them for ac¬cessing the oppor¬tunities which the 2010 World Cup bring for the Eden District.

The workshop looked at the logis¬tics and expected number of visitors. Eden convened this workshop to en¬sure that the Eden region is ready and prepared for this world event which will attract an es¬timated one million soccer fans. Eden is ideally po¬sitioned because it has the most accre¬dited accommoda¬tion, outside the city of Cape Town, as well as being loca¬ted strategically be-tween two host cities, Port Eliza¬beth and Cape Town.

SOCCER 2010 WORLD CUP
GOLF RESORT PICK-UP PREDICTED

In keeping up with what is happening throughout the world, residential golf housing estates are feeling the pinch. There are positive indications though that the South African mar¬ket will pick up du¬ring the Soccer 2010 World Cup, but that will only come after a severe bottoming out. The Summit held this week that was attended by top in¬ternational dele¬gates.

Good
Investment
He gave a fasci¬nating overview of how South Africa fits into the global picture.

On average, golf estates in SA have appreciated by 2.5 - 3 times their initial value in 5 years thereby outper¬forming the con¬ventional residen¬tial segment.

Prices paid at SA golf estates during 2008 ranged from R350 000 (for land in less expensive es-tates) to over R10 million.

This is up from R265 000 for land in more affordable estates to over R5¬million for houses in more expensive estates in 2005.

The range of prices paid in 2008 was R680 000 to R2,5 million whilst it was in R500 000 to R1,3 million in 2005.

TELKOM TO INJECT BILLIONS INTO NETWORK

Telkom expected to invest about R40 billion in the next five years to upgrade its network in South Africa as part of its survival strategy in an increasingly competitive environment, the fixed-line operator said yesterday.

The money would be used to upgrade its existing fixed-line network, expand its data centre operations and build a wireless network.

It had initially planned capital spending of R55 billion, but this was expected to be reduced to about R40 billion, including R10 billion from the proceeds of the Vodacom stake disposal.

Like many firms, Telkom is harmed by the economic downturn, with revenue remaining flat while costs rise.

The company is reinventing itself after selling its stake in Vodacom, which was its biggest contributor to profit.

HANG COUNCIL: NO MAYOR FOR EDEN

The hot seat of Mayor of Eden was not filled and the situation will remain so until 6 April when the next Eden District Coun¬cil meeting will be held to end the stale¬mate. This emerged at a tense Council meeting held on Tuesday when there was a draw of 15 votes for Or Fareed Stemmet, and 15 votes for ANC nominee, clr Leon Dorfling.

APPROVAL AWAITED FOR SHOPPING CENTRE

The developers of a new shopping centre and filling station in Thembalethu is awai¬ting final approval from Province before it can go ahead with the R8,5-million pro¬ject.

According to the senior manager of Plan¬ning, Steven Erasmus, a positive recom¬mendation by Council was sent to Province in October 2008 for the proposed centre. "We are currently awaiting final approval from Province in terms of legislation ap¬plicable here (in Thembalethu)," he said.

The proposed development of 6 400 m2 (plus 1 742 m2 basement area) is situated on a 1,8 hectare property on the corner of Sandkraal and Ngcakani Road. It will comprise a service station with conve¬nience store and ATM facilities, a fast food outlet, restroom facilities, tyre and exhaust centre and a workshop. The developer, Arengo 89 (Pty) Ltd also proposes a retail node providing a large supermarket, a furniture store, clothing stores, a fast food restaurant, pharmacy, bank and other retail outlets. A number of small shops will be made available for rent by SMME en¬trepreneurs.

WHO CAN TAME THE OTTER TRIAL?

Can South Africa's iconic five day hiking trail, the Otter Trail, be run in under 5 hours? With the current record standing at 5 hours 12 minutes, some adventure runners are convinced that it is possible.

This challenging time was achieved by John Collins, from Knysna, during a test run done in conjunction with SANParks management in Tsitsikamma. Collins is pretty confident that come September the sub 5 hour record can be achieved.

National Geographic’s 2007 Adventurer of the Year, Andrew Skurka, who had been invited to hike The Otter Trail by SA Tourism in May 2008, achieved the full distance in 12 Hours – so the next frontier of sub 5 hour Otter is a very special and privileged quest to aspire to.

See www.magneticsouth.net for entry details.

INA PAARMAN’S EASTER MENU

Sparkling Wine

Fresh Fruit Platter served with Yoghurt and Honey

Cheese Roulade with Pesto on video
Zig-Zag Bacon
Creamed Mushrooms on Toast
Cajun Potato Wedges

Coffee with Biscotti
Ina Paarman on the web - www.paarman.co.za

Weekly News - 30 March 2009

2009-04-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

After an interesting format to the ABSA Cape Epic 2009 route, Team Susan Deacon Properties had a top finish and we are delighted to be back safe and sound. We would like to thank all our supporters, our back up crew, physios, etc. and most importantly The Lord Jesus Christ for helping us achieve a good result without any scratches or injuries. After Jason finished his 3rd race and Marcel has got 5 in the bag the team are now a complete Amabubesi outfit.

The final day of the taxing 2009 Absa Cape Epic took riders over 60km and 1 760 m climbing. They saw short, sharp climbs and then some longer and even steeper ones though Nuweberg. Soon the riders smelt home as they neared the bottom of Gamtoe Pass. As any Absa Cape Epic veteran will tell you, it is a compulsory portage section through this National Heritage site. A close look at the path revealed ‘Voortrekkers' wagons tracks, heading down to the railway line. Through wine country, riders headed home to the Lourensford Wine Estate to collect their finisher's medal and T-shirt as well as a well earned rest.

If this sounds like your kind of a race, then we hope to see you there next year. The final race report can be viewed here.....http://www.cape-epic.com/news.php?news_id=116&title=/Victory_for_Bulls_Team/

CONTENTS
1. Prinicpal choice
2. Latest releases
3. Last day to get 2010 tickets
4. Ina Paarman's receipe feature

PRINICIPAL CHOICE
GEORGE - KRAAIBOSCH

This brand new home offers the very best value for your money. Entrance hall, open plan living area / kitchen, laundry, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, dressingroom, wooden deck patio and double garage.

R1 399 000
ID4002

LATEST RELEASES
GEORGE - DORMEHLSDRIFT

Spacious cluster home in security complex. Close to all amenities. Open plan lounge, diningroom, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and double garage.

R1 399 000
ID4004

GEORGE - BO-DORP

Large family home close to town & schools. Lounge, diningroom, familyroom, kitchen, study, patio, large pool, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, garage PLUS selfcontaining 1 bedroom flat.

R1 620 000
ID4006

GEORGE - BO-DORP

Open plan livingroom & kitchen, laundry, BBQ room, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms PLUS a 2 bedroom flat with kitchen, lounge and 1 bathroom.

R1 500 000
ID4009

LAST DAY TO GET 2010 TICKETS

The first phase of sales for 2010 FIFA World Cup tickets comes to a close today, after a successful six-week sales campaign.

Ticket sales have exceeded expectations, said FIFA and South Africa’s Local Organising Committee on Thursday, with over 1 million applications received from over 160 countries worldwide. The majority of ticket applications have been made by South Africans, followed by Brits and Americans.

“We have had a phenomenal response from football fans around the world. We do expect a last-minute rush over the next few days to submit applications to beat the 31 March deadline – in particular in South Africa,” said Fifa Secretary General Jerome Valcke on Friday.

“We are very excited to have passed the one million mark for ticket applications for the 2010 Fifa World Cup. The interest in South Africa and around the world has been incredible,” said Danny Jordaan, the Chief Executive Officer of the 2010 Fifa World Cup Organising Committee South Africa.

Fans have until midnight on 31 March 2009 to make ticket applications on the www.FIFA.com website. In addition, South African residents can submit a paper application in one of the 700 FNB branches across the country.

INA PAARMAN’S RECIPE FEATURE

EASTER MUFFINS
Makes 20-24 muffins

These muffins are a lot easier to make than hot cross buns, but the flavour is lovely and spicy, just what we associate with Easter.

1 x 700 g Ina Paarman's Muffin Mix

SPICE MIX
1 t (5 ml) nutmeg
2 t (10 ml) cinnamon
¼ t (1 ml) cloves
½ t (2.5 ml) ginger

MUFFINS
2 extra large eggs
½ cup (125 ml) canola oil
1 cup (250 ml) plain yoghurt
1 cup (250 ml) milk
1 large apple, grated

GLACÉ ICING
1 cup (150 g) icing sugar
1-2 T (15-30 ml) hot water
2 t (10 ml) lemon juice

Preheat oven to 180°C and adjust oven rack to middle position.
Remove the raisin-bag from the foil packet and pour boiling water over the raisins to plump them up. Drain immediately and set aside to swell.
Butter two muffin pans. Measure all the spices and add them to the dry muffin mix.
Beat eggs and oil for 2 minutes on high speed until well blended. Add yoghurt and milk and beat for 1 minute on high speed. Add contents of pack, drained plumped raisins and grated apple. Stir by hand with a spatula ± 40 times until uniformly blended. (Do not beat).
Spoon mixture into prepared muffin pans.Bake for about 35 minutes until well browned and well risen. Leave to rest in the muffin pans for 5 minutes and then transfer to a cooling rack.

TO MAKE THE ICING

Sift the icing sugar into a medium size mixing bowl and place over a small saucepan of simmering water. Stir in the water mixed with the lemon juice until the icing coats the back of the spoon.
Transfer the icing to a plastic sandwich bag. Snip a small hole in the one corner and guide the icing into that corner. Pipe fat crosses on top of the cooled muffins. You may want to go over the crosses a second time to make them stand out. Delicious plain or spread with butter and served with coffee or tea.

Ina Paarman on the web - www.paarman.co.za

Weely News - 16 March 2009

2009-03-16T10:13:00.000-07:00

It is ABSA Cape Epic time again and this year the race has taken on a brand new format starting in Cape Town and finishing at Lourensford.

As for the last five years, Susan Deacon Properties are involved again with our team racing from 21 - 28 March 2009. Be updated with our progress at www.capeepic.com In this newsletter we also have a short description of the stages.

The team is ready with brand new Susan Deacon Properties cycling kit, our back up support team, physios, mechanics, etc. We are leaving for Cape Town on Wednesday and will test the Prologue route on Thursday, preparing ourselves for the start on Saturday.

We will keep you posted on our Facebook Group on the progress. Television coverage will be on Supersport every evening at 22:00.

CONTENTS
1. Prinicpal choice
2. Latest releases
3. PE 2010 stadium nears completion
4. ABSA Cape Epic 2009
5. The players GC special
6. New Mayor for Eden to be named
7. Biggest Municipal project ever completed
8. Get away for 3 days and spoil yourself
9. Garden Route new national park established
10. Ina Paarman's receipe feature

PRINICIPAL CHOICE

MOSSEL BAY - GOLF ESTATE

Situated on the sixth fairway. Double volume facebrick home. 3 Living rooms, indoor fountain, kitchen with granite tops, laundry, 3 balconies, BBQ area, fireplace, underfloor heating, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, study & double garage with space for 2 golf carts.

R4 090 000
ID3993

LATEST RELEASES

GEORGE - KINGSWOOD

Beautiful property on golf course. Lock up & go. Open plan living area / diningroom / braairoom, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, patio & double garage. Furniture @ R150 000, Golf cart @ R45 000.

R1 830 000 ID3995

GREAT BRAK RIVER - PIENAAR STRAND

Comfortable home in a quiet street. 2 Spacious living areas with a dream open plan kitchen, laundry, scullery, pantry, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, BBQ room and 2 garages.

R2 380 000
ID3990

GEORGE - HEATHERLANDS

Large plot and lots of possibilities. Lounge, diningroom, covered BBQ area, patio, kitchen, laundry, study, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathooms, servants quarters and double garage.

R1 995 000
ID3996

PE 2010 STADIUM NEARS COMPLETION

The construction of the Nelson Mandela Bay Multipurpose Stadium reached a significant milestone this week as the last of the 36 roof truss girders was fitted into place in a commemorative event broadcast live on SABC 2's Morning Live.

Members of the Nelson Mandela Bay city council took on local team Bay United on Wednesday in an exhibition kick-about match to commemorate the placement of the last girder - laying claim to being the first players to play on a 2010 FIFA World Cup stadium pitch.

The R1.3 billion stadium situated along the North End lake of Port Elizabeth is now just a few weeks away from completion, with the stadium's 46 000 seats installed and the pitch already laid. The official handover date for the stadium is scheduled for the end of April.

ABSA CAPE EPIC 2009
The Cape Epic, the biggest race of its kind in the world, offers local and international mountain biking enthusiasts the opportunity to participate in an eight day mountain bike race of 743 km, which again finishes at the Lourensford Wine Estate.
The route, which has changed significantly, will lead 1 200 cyclists through vast distances of unspoilt nature and up approximately 16 650m of climbing over some of the most magnificent mountains and passes in South Africa.
One of the most famous natural landmarks in Africa, Table Mountain, marks the beginning of the pioneering, tough and beautiful mountain bike race. The race then heads into the Overberg region in search of the most exciting, beautiful and challenging routes. Always innovating, the 2009 Absa Cape Epic visits stage locations in which riders will be staying for 2 consecutive nights, allowing them more time to experience the single-track and technical routes that make this race legendary.
Table Mountain will host the prologue, which was introduced at this year’s race, on the first day of the event. The 24km ride against the clock will take riders from the edge of the City Bowl towards Tafelberg Road. The Cobra is a steep switchback climb averaging 15%. Once they crossed Kloof Nek, riders will climb Signal Hill and head along the spine.
Gordon’s Bay will see the start of Stage 1, taking riders over 110km and 2 770m of climbing to Villiersdorp. The early steep ascents will stretch out the field, just in time for some rocky single-track. The 10km climb will start off at over 10%, but will level out near the top. Riders will need to save their energy for the last 15km, which will take them into Villiersdorp, where they will settle in for 2 nights.
Stage 2 will be a 120km ride with 2 108m of climbing. Villiersdorp, the "The Pearl of the Overberg", is graced by oak trees and surrounded by tranquil fruit and wine orchards. Sixteen degree slopes are perfect for crafting fine wine but will make for tired legs early in the stage.
The third stage will take riders from Villiersdorp to Greyton, an 85km route with 1 950m of climbing. Their legs will remember stages 1 and 2 all too clearly as they tackle a long ascent up a rugged 4x4 trail. It will be another day of tough ups and downs, breaking the riders’ rhythm.
The fourth day (Stage 4) of 101km and 2 303m of climbing will begin on the open roads with a steady climb followed by a tricky section on fast rocky tracks, testing the reactions early in the morning. After crossing the causeway, a windy trip through the farmlands will take the field back towards Greyton. Much of it is rideable but with some 20 degree slopes, testing their technical skills.
Stage 5 will take riders from Greyton to Oak Valley, a 113km ride with 2 405m of climbing. Early on, some jagged climbs will strike a cruel blow to the morale, but riders will be rewarded with the beautiful flowing dual tracks alongside the railway line. This will offer a temporary respite as Elgin / Grabouw appears on the horizon.
The second last stage (Stage 6) of the Absa Cape Epic, will take riders on a 120km journey with 2 604m of climbing. This stage is the most technical in the Absa Cape Epic’s history. No sooner than leaving Oak Valley, riders will encounter more hills heading towards the N2. Crossing over the route, they will follow the Apple Trail and visit Kogelberg - a world-famous Cape Nature Conservation biosphere featuring some radical descents and narrow tracks with unique Fynbos grabbing at the handlebars. After a river crossing and more steep climbs, riders once again find themselves in the single-track heaven of Lebanon. They will then return to Oak Valley to cap off a very demanding day in the saddle.
Finally the last day (Stage 7 - final) of the taxing Absa Cape Epic has arrived and riders will end their adventure at Lourensford. Traditionally the last stage is always the shortest, but never easy and will take riders over 70km and 1 770 m climbing. Again, they will see short, sharp climbs and then some longer and even steeper ones though Nuweberg.
Says Kevin Vermaak, founder and director of the Absa Cape Epic and Cape Odyssey: “The Absa Cape Epic has grown in popularity amongst cyclists around the world. Every year we typically have more than 40 countries represented and 35% of the riders travel from outside Africa. In South Africa, the race is increasingly becoming an iconic endurance event well known beyond just the cycling community.”

THE PLAYERS GC SPECIAL OFFER
The Players GC is offering you the change to enter the wonderful world of golf and get all the benefits you need as a golfer without having to outlay thousands of Rand's to get it.

Benefits of membership include:

An official National Golf Network golf handicap card and official handicap

Discounted affiliated rates at courses due to SAGA affiliation. (saving you between R50 to R200 per round)

2 Complimentary lessons with a PGA professional in your area worth R350

A free subscription to Universal Golf ezine

4 Strokesaver distance guides of golf courses in your region worth R120

Monthly newsletters with competitions, getaways, golf tips and discounts on golf equipment
Value added services

We at The PGC do not only provide golfers with a cost effective alternative to get all the benefits they need as golfers, but also provide our members with value added services exclusive to The PGC.

These services include the following:

Members are welcome to email or fax scores through to us that they were unable to enter due to unforeseen circumstances and we will submit those scores to avoid the unpleasant experience of a penalty calculation which normally has a big affect on your handicap as well as handling all related queries regarding your handicap.

As a PGC member you will have the luxury of contacting us with any golf related query and we will personally do everything in our power to assist you in any way possible
We can offer you this incredible golf membership for only R1199 per year a R200 discount on the normal rate.

And Even more

Join from now till the end of the March and stand a chance of entertaining 3 of your friends or clients by winning one of 4 four balls at a prestigious golf course in your area worth R1800 per four ball.

To take up this incredible offer contact Neil De Bruyn on 011 998 2999

Or visit www.theplayersgolfclub.co.zaand complete an online application form.

NEW-MAYOR FOR EDEN TO BE NAMED

A successor for Rudi Laws is to be announced on 26 March during a special meeting of the Eden District Municipality Party leaders will negotiate the appointment at provincial level.

Laws' resignation as Mayor and as councillor on both the George Town Council and District Council last week Tuesday caused a stir. He made a special trip to Cape Town to proclaim his allegiance to the ANC Party whilst at the same time declaring being heartily sick of politics and wanting out of the DA party.

BIGGEST MUNICIPAL PROJECT EVER COMPLETED

ROAD LINK AND BRIDGES PROVIDE EASY ACCESS TO INDUSTRIAL AREA.

George Executive Mayor Flip de Swardt was visibly delighted when he unveiled the plaque of the two new rail-over-road-bridges in the industrial area and cut the ribbon to open the Rand and Union Street link on Monday.

The project was the final phase in a R50-million roads infrastructure upgrade over the past five years which is the biggest construction undertaking the Municipality has executed to date, according to Civil Engineering Services Senior Manager, Harold Basson.

GET AWAY FOR 3 DAYS & SPOIL YOURSELF

What makes the Fitness & Wellness Weekend so different and interesting?

The Fitness & Wellness Weekend include, beside fitness and wellness classes, daily workshops and presentations by professional presenters. Educate yourself in daily nutrition and dietary workshops while enjoying a cooking workshop. We will show you how to strengthen your back and maintain a correct body posture. You will learn how to improve your flexibility and how to relax. On Saturday we will spoil you with a free beauty treatment and on Sunday you can relax with a free massage. Life is all about balance and we are going to teach you how to lead a balanced and healthy life. Our partners: Advanced Body Studio, Body Stress Release, Creative Balance Healthcare, educogym, Holistic Therapeutic, Sure Slim, pureskin, Rolfing, Oak Barrel and Bio Anabolics will share their expertise. A team of professional trainers and instructors will be available around the clock to give you all the attention you deserve.

If you have not booked, please hurry - only limited space available!

Contact Kerstin on: 078 10 44 031 or 044 870 8959.

E-mail: info@fitnessandwelless.co.za

GARDEN ROUTE NEW NATIONAL PARK ESTABLISHED

CONSERVATION WITHOUT BOUNDARIES TAKEN ONE STEP FURTHER

"The newly proclaimed Garden Route National Park will be an unique park without any border-fencing and with a mix of conservation areas interspersed by five towns," said the Minister of Environmental affairs, Marthinus van Schalkwyk on Friday, at the launch of the park held in Knysna. "It will be the jewel in the crown of South African National Parks (SANParks)".

The park, which amalgamates all national arks and state forest between George, Plettenberg Bay and Stormsriver, was proclaimed in the Government Gazette on Friday to coincide with the official lunch.

SANParks is the second largest employer n the region and its total economic contribution to the region is estimated to be almost R95-million per annum.

There are only three other National Parks in the world where residents live within the borders of a proclaimed Park - in Italy, Canada and the USA. The new Garden Route National Park will be the first of its kind on the African continent.

Mousy Songelwa, Regional Manager of SANParks Garden Route, said it is an exciting challenge for the area. "The National Park will be made up of the currently proclaimed Tsitsikamma and Wilderness National Parks, the Knysna National Lake Area, the Southern Cape Indigenous Forrest and the associated fynbos mountain catchment Areas” Each will retain there own identity.

"The geographical diversity of these various areas makes for an exceptional conservation model. The National Park will also not have any additional entrance gates and fences erected to mark its boundaries other than those already in place at the various camps. Each will retain their own identity," said Songelwa.

INA PAARMAN’S RECIPE FEATURE

Leek and Tuna Quiche
Serves 6
A divine combination of classic flavours.

CHEESE PASTRY

¼ cup (62,5 ml) butter
½ cup (125 ml) grated cheddar cheese
¾ cup (190 ml) cake flour
2 T (30 ml) cold water

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Butter a 20-22 cm fluted porcelain flan dish or metal quiche pan. Blend all the ingredients in a food processor to form coarse crumbs. Knead lightly to form a ball. Wrap in cling film and leave at room temperature for at least an hour or overnight. Roll out and line the flan dish, pushing pastry right up against the sides. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Line the dish with baking paper and weigh it down with pottery pastry weights, rice or beans. Bake blind at 200ºC for 10 minutes. Remove the paper.

Brush the inside of the pastry with a little of the egg intended for the filling. Bake for another 5 minutes. The egg-wash will waterproof the pastry.

FILLING

2 leeks, well washed and finely sliced
2 T (30 ml) butter or olive oil
1 T (15 ml) flour
1 t (5 ml) Ina Paarman's Green Onion Seasoning
175 g tin of solid meat tuna in oil (drain off some of the oil and flake fish)
1 cup (250 ml) fresh or reduced fat (pouring) cream
2 extra large or jumbo eggs
1 t (5 ml) Ina Paarman's Lemon & Black Pepper Seasoning

Reduce oven temperature to 180ºC. Place the leeks and cubes of butter into a large frying pan and sauté until soft. It will take about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the flour and Green Onion Seasoning over and stir to blend.

Stir in the flaked tuna. Spoon the mixture into pre-baked pastry shell. In a jug, beat together the cream, eggs and Lemon & Black Pepper Seasoning and pour over. Bake at 180ºC for 30 minutes until the filling is firm and slightly puffy. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Ina Paarman on the web - www.paarman.co.za

Weely News - 9 March 2009

2009-03-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

CONTENTS
1. Prinicpal choice
2. Latest releases
3. 2010 Benefits to flow across the continent
4. WInds batter cycle tour competitors
5. Destiny Africa gets milestone approval
6. Country Hop Route open
7. Hospital gets latest ECG machine
8. Best tourism office
9. Harvey golf teacher of the year 2009
10. Zimbabwe deal positive for SA real estate
11. Returining SA job seekers
12. New buyers ready for Robertson market
13. Ina Paarman SA braai winner

PRINICIPAL CHOICE

GEORGE - HEATHER PARK

For those who seek a style which combines outdoor and indoor living, Bali is a sound choice. Balinese architecture evidences sharp angles and a merging of modern with traditional, organic materials, such as teak and smooth stones. In this design, living areas face on to landscaped gardens and private courtyards. Home with a touch of class, 3 bedrooms, sunny living areas, BBQ room, kitchen, laundry, secure estate and 2 garages.

R2 850 000
ID3982

LATEST RELEASES

GEORGE - GLENBARRIE

This beautiful home with a garden complete and all beauty and bounty one would expect from a property of this stature, Entertainment room with bar, BBQ and family area, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garages, 3 living areas, Jacuzzi, study, kitchen, laundry, patio and guest room.

R2 495 000 ID3983

KNYSNA - HUNTERS HOME

Family living French Provencal style in the heart of Knysna this home offers:
5 Bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, dining room, family room, lounge, swimming pool, large deck/ patio, Jacuzzi, solid wooden floors, established garden.

Newly renovated to pristine standards. Being on the pan handle makes the property very private and it is surrounded by trees and set on 2000 sqm of landscaped garden.

R2 695 000
ID3984

GEORGE - DENNEOORD

Cluster home in secure complex, with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living area, kitchen, patio, BBQ area and garage.

R920 000
ID3986

2010 BENEFITS TO FLOW ACROSS THE CONTINENT

World football body Fifa has reassured Africans that next year's Fifa World Cup will benefit the entire continent, and not only South Africa.

Speaking on how Africa was set to benefit from next year's tournament, Fifa spokesperson Delia Fischer said there were several programmes in place under Fifa's social responsibility project.

She said although South Africa was the host country, Fifa president Sepp Blatter made no secret of pronouncing the 2010 soccer showpiece "Africa's World Cup".

"Fifa's aim through our many projects is to create a balance on the continent," said Fischer. "In 2006, shortly after South Africa won the bid, many programmes were launched.

WINDS BATTER CYCLE TOUR COMPETITORS

Strong winds, with some gusts reportedly reaching 140km/h, made the 2009 Cape Argus Pick 'n Pay Cycle Tour one of the most challenging events in the history of the race. It also resulted in the winning time of surprise champion Arran Brown being almost 20 minutes slower than the race record established by Robbie Hunter in 2008.

David Bellairs, co-director of the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust, commenting on the fact that only 25 600 out of 35 000 cyclists that had entered the race actually started it, said: "This is 6000 to 7000 fewer than usual and it is due to the wind.

"It's been the most difficult event in 20 years," he added.

DESTINY AFRICA GETS MILESTONE APPROVAL

The long awaited ministerial approval for Destiny Africa, the proposed tourism-housing-hotel development on the borders of town, was granted on 13 February, subject to 28 strict conditions.

A large scale conference and expo centre, a waterfront village, a tourism village with office and shops, a knowledge and corporate office park, an eco-estate, high density residential and social housing, sports facilities, network of open spaces and water features were approved on the 436 hectare property.

COUNTRY HOP ROUTE OPEN

The area around George is the only place in South Africa to produce hops, those strange cones growing on vines up trellises. Hops is used in beer to aid the fermentation process.

The farms and venues on the Outeniqua Country Hop route are all open for viewing. So if you are wondering what to do this weekend, take a drive in George's beautiful countryside.

On the route you will have the Outeniqua mountains as a backdrop, with members ranging from comfortable B & B's, guesthouses and luxury hotels to strawberry, cheese, dairy, game and wine farms, a horse riding school, a Spa, a variety of golf courses, a nursery, tea gardens, pubs, restaurants, function venues and a gallery and art studio.

Over and above all of this, one can also enjoy the walking trails and beautiful beaches and bays in the area.

The route starts at Herold's Bay in the south and moves along to the farmlands of Geelhoutboom, then winds its way over the Montagu pass to Herold and Waboomskraal in the North.

The route was originally inspired by the abundance of `hops' grown in the nearby mountains. Waboomskraal and Herold, as well as parts of Blanco, are home to hops growing. They are a unique attraction to the route and cones are harvested in February and March.

This will make you appreciate that ice cold beer even more next time.

Visit the newly revived and updated website www.outeniquacountryhop.co.za

HOSPITAL GETS LATEST ECG MACHINE

George Hospital is a revitalisation hospital which since 2003 has been upgrading the infrastructure, while at the same time ensuring that all the Health Technology and Equipment is replaced with state of the art equipment.

George Hospital aims to be the most patient-centered hospital of choice in the community, providing the best quality health care in the country.

In keeping with this stance, the staff are also undergoing Change Management training and development, to not only ensure that they are able to correctly work everything, but do so in a manner that one would expect in a 2009 quality hospital.

BEST TOURISM OFFICE

KNYSNA WINS AWARD AGAIN

Knysna tourism won the "Best Tourism Office in the Western Cape" award for the second consecutive year last week at the 2008 Western Cape Provincial Tourism Awards in Cape Town.

Mike Griffiths, Chairman of the Knysna Tourism Board, said they were delighted. "It is a great achievement. Winning this award for the second time is recognition for the 'excellent teamwork of the staff at Knysna Tourism. We have a strong, professional and committed team, and it shows."

HARVEY GOLF TEACHER OF THE YEAR 2009

The Ernie Els Fancourt Foundation is very proud of their coach, George Harvey for receiving the 2009 Teacher of the Year Award from the South African PGA. George has been head coach of the EEFF for the past four years and he has been a finalist for this award for the past five years.

George originally came from Zimbabwe and captained the Rhodesian golf team for many years. Nick Price, Mark McNulty, Denis Watson, and Tony Johnstone were members of this team. George and Denis won the World Pairs Championship in Bogota in Colombia in 1975. George also made a World International Side which played against South Africa in 1978. He was ranked as No.1 amateur golfer in the world by the R&A in 1978. George and Dale Hayes are the only two golfers to win.

ZIMBABWE DEAL POSITIVE FOR SA REAL ESTATE

The inauguration of Morgan Tsvangirai this month as the Prime Minster of Zimbabwe is the latest in a series of events set to have a positive effect on the residential property market within the next few months.

“We are already seeing signs of recovery in the market,” says Institute of Estate Agents (IEASA) national president Dr Willie Marais, “including more visitors at showhouses and more purchasing by investors who believe the cycle is about to turn and are willing to commit cash.

“This follows the two interest rate decreases since December and the drop in inflation, and it will be strengthened by the increased consumer confidence stemming from the Zimbabwe power-sharing settlement and plans to rebuild that country’s economy.”

This agreement has, he says, removed one of the major potential sources of conflict and economic upset for SA, “and although it took much too long, has also demonstrated that southern Africa is at least capable of resolving problems without resorting to war.

RETURNING SA JOB SEEKERS MAY STIMULATE PROPERTY MARKET

The global credit crunch may have at least one positive fallout, by encouraging South Africans who have been living abroad to return to the country and in the process provide a degree of stimulus for the property market.

NEW BUYERS STEADY ROBERTSON MARKET

The property market in Robertson in the Western Cape’s scenic Breede River wine valley is steering a steady course thanks to new entrants in the residential sector.

“These entrants include young people working in town, retirees from Gauteng, KZN and Cape Town, as well as overseas investors who are attracted by the quiet rural lifestyle and the quaint architecture that characterises Robertson,” says Johan Gous of the local Aida real estate office.

“The local market is slowly but surely regaining momentum after a period in which relatively high prices decreased steadily,” he says. “Average homes that were selling a few months ago at between R800 000 and R900 000 are now available at prices of between R680 000 and R800 000, which has stimulated new demand.

“And there is still an extremely high demand for homes in the price range between R450 000 and R650 000 but stock in this range is very limited.”

Most buyers are settling for units in the R680 000 to R800 000 range, he says, although retirees are most active in the range between R700 000 and R950 000. And overseas buyers are targeting properties with price tags of up to R1,2m.

SUSAN DEACON PROPERTIES ROBERTSON PROPERTY FEATURE

Buy now and only pay in July 2010 - The ideal investment opportunity in the heart of the Cape Winelands.

Invest in this lifestyle estate within that country atmosphere and tranquillity of the valley of wine, horses and roses. Nestled on the picturesque hillside of the Langeberge mountains in Robertson, it offers the supreme beauty and tranquil country living on the famous Route 62.

Refresh and wind down in this beautiful country town. Leafy Robertson is located in the heart of Route 62, the longest wine route in the world. The town nestles at the foot of the picturesque Langeberge and the meandering Breederiver as its lifeblood. Well known for its

- connoisseur wines
- radiant roses
- and thoroughbred horses,

Stands start from R299 000 for first 40 stands only

READ MORE

INA PAARMAN’S SA BRAAI WINNER

BRAAIED LEG OF LAMB
Serves 6

Boning a leg of lamb and opening it butterfly-style has many advantages when braaing over an open fire on a griddle pan. I love using a pot bellied stove or a pizza oven. Try this method for a fillet of venison - outstanding!
1 leg of lamb, boned and opened butterfly-style (ask a butcher to "vlek" the meat so that it is not thicker than 3 cm in any one area)
½ cup (125 ml) buttermilk
2 t (10 ml) Ina Paarman’s Rosemary and Olive Seasoning
2 T (30 ml) olive oil
4 garlic cloves, cut into long slivers
3 rosemary twigs, cut into 2 cm lengths
10 black olives, pipped and halved

BASTING
Olive oil
1 x Ina Paarman’s Olive Oil and Rosemary Coat & Cook Sauce

Coat the leg with buttermilk and leave covered in a glass dish in the fridge overnight. Buttermilk is a wonderful tenderizing agent. It will not draw out juices, nor will it alter the flavour of the meat in any way. The next day, remove meat and dry carefully with paper towel.

Pierce deep holes all over the lamb with a sharp cook's knife. Lard the lamb by pushing a garlic sliver, rosemary snip and half an olive into each hole.

Season the meat all over and rub with olive oil.

Place the meat on a hot griddle pan over the fire in a clay oven or kettle braai, meaty side down.

Cook for about 15 minutes until nicely browned. Turn with a pair of tongs. Baste the cooked side with Olive Oil and Rosemary sauce. When the other side is nicely browned, turn and baste with sauce. Continue turning and basting. Use a meat thermometer to test when done. Don't overcook meat; it must still be slightly pink and juicy. Cooking time varies from 45-60 minutes, depending on thickness of joint and intensity of heat. Rest for 10 minutes before carving. Bring any remaining sauce with about 2-3 T (30-45 ml) of olive oil to the boil and serve on the side. Carve meat into thin slices and serve on hot plates. Delicious with apricot mustard fruits.

Ina Paarman on the web - www.paarman.co.za

2009-03-02T07:28:00.001-08:00

Susan Deacon Properties are always moving forward and you would have noticed that our website had a few changes to the links and basic layout over the last week.

We have linked up with Safari Now. This is South Africa’s leading accommodation portal and we have arranged discounts on accommodation bookings for all our clients.

Rhino Africa, an online African tour operator is now our official tour operator for all African safaris and tours. Looking for that long awaited holiday, visit their web and have a look at all the exciting packages on offer.

For all the Golfers - Global Golf Tours is the global leader in arranging golf tours from across the globe. So no matter where you plan to take the family you can always included a few rounds of golf on the best golf courses in the world. They will plan your tour according to your needs.

Looking for an overseas investment, Spain, Portugal, Bahammas, Turkey, Dubai, etc. Then visit our International section with the best lifestyle and investment opportunities from across the globe. No matter what your needs, we've got it covered.

Last for this week, but not least is that we are now marketing one of South Africa’s leading development companies portfolio. The portfolio consists mainly of the Cape Town and Helderberg areas. Keep reading our newsletter to see what they have on offer and we will keep you updated weekly on any new investment opportunities in these areas.

So for this week, but more on its way, you can now book accommodation, arrange tours, buy property overseas and brows the best selection of developments in the country from one website. The Susan Deacon Properties Portal.

CONTENTS
1. Prestige developments
2. New release property
3. There is more to Africa - 2010 Soccer news
4. Beatle mania in George
5. Ina Paarman's weeknite winner

PRESTIGE DEVELOPMENTS
CAPE TOWN - STRAND & GORDONS BAY

TOPAZ BEACHFRONT APARTMENTS

Topaz the most exclusive apartment building in the Western Cape. Situated on the Strand Beach Road golden mile. Spectacular unobstrcuted ocean views. Interior designed and decorate by up market consultants. 2 Bedroom apartment, 2 bathrooms, living areas, gourmet kitchen, 2 balconies, 2 secure basement parkings and store room. Indoor & outdoor swimming pools and gym area.

ID3968

NEW RELEASE PROPERTY
NAUTICA

Nautica is a modern well-designed apartment building within 100m from the Strand Beachfront located between Van Der Spuy, George and Victoria Street.

This ultra modern building consists out of one bedroom, two bedroom and loft apartments with limited views of False Bay and unlimited views over Hottentots Holland mountains.

This well designed building consists of 5 storeys. The lower ground level all has private gardens and entrances to Van Der Spuy Street for easy access to the Strand Beachfront.

From R835 000
ID3963

GLADSTONE PLACE

Gladstone Place is a 28 unit Sectional title security complex situated within walking distance from the Strand CBD and beaches. Multi Projects has negotiated an exclusive deal for our investors in this popular holiday destination.

FRom R525 000
ID3964

MONT BLANC APARTMENTS

FROM R469 000 - Buy now pay in 2010, Only R15 000 deposit, VAT Back, Fully furnished option, Appointed Management and administration company, Up to 100% Bonds available, No transfer or Bond costs, Housekeeping service, Prime investment, Within walking distance of the Strand CBD, Well designed kitchens with Granite tops.

ID3965

LA BELLA SECURITY DEVELOPMENT

Labella is a sectional title security complex consisting out of eleven clusters being developed in two phases. Labella is a security complex with tarred and cobblestone road, landscaped gardens and a entertainment area and swimming pool. The complex consist out of eleven different style one and two apartments and has ample covered and guest parking. Labella is the ideal location for holiday makers, investors and owner occupiers alike. Very good rental potential.

Fully furnishing option with Hotel star grading will be provided for those owners that partake in the holiday accommodation rental pool option. An appointed management and administration company will manage the housekeeping service on behalf of the owners. Owners may also use their holiday apartments with 24hr prior notice. The increase rental income from holiday accommodation includes Gladstone a preferred choice.

From R559 000
ID3969

GEORGE - BLANCO

Modern 3 bedroom home with easy living features. Kitchen, laundry, covered BBQ/ patio and garage.

R1 050 000
ID3974

THERE IS MORE TO AFRICA - 2010 SOCCER NEWS

South Africa will stage the best World Cup in history when it hosts the global showpiece in 2010, Barcelona's Cameroon international striker Cameroon Eto'o said on Thursday.

"FIFA did the right thing in granting the World Cup to us. I say and I repeat that this will be the most beautiful Cup ever held," the former African Player of the Year told a sport conference in Barcelona.
"People don't know Africa, when someone talks about Africa, people believe we still use bows and arrows," the 27-year-old added.
"They will be pleasantly surprised if they go to South Africa. It's the best way to show the whole world that there is more to Africa than just famine."

BEATLE MAINIA IN GEORGE

Fans of the Fab Four cannot afford to miss an evening of nostalgia paying tribute to the Beatles.

The show "Beatlemania on Tour" will bring back many golden memories when it visits George on 8 March.

A highly talented Australian cast will take you through an amazing musical biography as they pay tribute to The Beatles, one of the most influential bands ever, from Liverpool.

The show employs authentic Beatle instruments, amplifiers and costumes and promises to perform faithful renditions of everyone's favourite Beatle classics.

Beatlemania re-creates the spirit of the Fab Four with Chris Frazer as John Lennon on rhythm guitar, lead guitar, piano, mouth organ and lead vocals, Came-ron Charters as Paul McCartney on bass guitar, piano and lead vocals, Paul Green as George Harrison on lead guitar, piano and lead vocals and Michael Brady as Ringo Starr on drums, percussion and lead vocals.

Musically, no detail is overlooked as Beatlemania perform every song live and in its original key.

Two lucky readers can each win a set of double tickets to the concert by sending an sms to 072 916 1383. Type your name and "Beatlemania GH".

INA PAARMAN’S WEEKNITE WINNER

PENNE WITH PAN ROASTED BUTTERNUT & SAGE
Serves 4 - 6
Pan roasting the butternut gives delicious flavour depth to this economical vegetarian main course. If fresh sage is a problem, use basil or half the amount of fresh rosemary.

SAUCE
3 T (45 ml) butter
2 T (30 ml) canola oil
± 16 sage leaves
1 medium size butternut ± 750 g-1 kg, peeled and cubed 2 cm x 2 cm
1 bunch spring onions, finely sliced with most of green tops
1 t (5 ml) Ina Paarman's Seasoned Sea Salt
2 t (10 ml) sugar
1 T (15 ml) Ina Paarman's White Sauce Powder
2 cups (500 ml) water
1 t (10 ml) Ina Paarman's Vegetable Stock Powder
1 T (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
PASTA
400-500 g penné
2 T (30 ml) olive or canola oil
Ina Paarman's Green Onion Seasoning

TO SERVE
¼ cup (60 ml) grated pecorino or cheddar cheese
reserved spring onion
reserved fried sage
Warm a large heavy based frying pan. Add butter and oil, when the butter foams add the sage leaves and just crisp them. Remove sage with a slotted spoon and keep on one side.
Add cubed butternut in an even layer and cook over high heat, without stirring, until the butternut begins to caramelize to a spotty brown colour. Stir and continue browning the butternut for another 4-5 minutes. Add spring onions (reserve a little for garnish), Seasoned Sea Salt, sugar and White Sauce Powder. Stir to blend.

Add water and Vegetable Stock Powder. Simmer for about 5 minutes with a lid on until the butternut is tender. Add the lemon juice and taste for seasoning. In the meantime, cook the pasta according to packet instructions. Drain and toss with oil and Green Onion Seasoning to taste. Top pasta with butternut mixture. Top with grated cheese, reserved spring onions and crispy sage leaves.

Ina Paarman on the web - www.paarman.co.za

2009-03-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

Susan Deacon Properties are always moving forward and you would have noticed that our website had a few changes to the links and basic layout over the last week.

We have linked up with Safari Now. This is South Africa’s leading accommodation portal and we have arranged discounts on accommodation bookings for all our clients.

Rhino Africa, an online African tour operator is now our official tour operator for all African safaris and tours. Looking for that long awaited holiday, visit their web and have a look at all the exciting packages on offer.

For all the Golfers - Global Golf Tours is the global leader in arranging golf tours from across the globe. So no matter where you plan to take the family you can always included a few rounds of golf on the best golf courses in the world. They will plan your tour according to your needs.

Looking for an overseas investment, Spain, Portugal, Bahammas, Turkey, Dubai, etc. Then visit our International section with the best lifestyle and investment opportunities from across the globe. No matter what your needs, we've got it covered.

Last for this week, but not least is that we are now marketing one of South Africa’s leading development companies portfolio. The portfolio consists mainly of the Cape Town and Helderberg areas. Keep reading our newsletter to see what they have on offer and we will keep you updated weekly on any new investment opportunities in these areas.

So for this week, but more on its way, you can now book accommodation, arrange tours, buy property overseas and brows the best selection of developments in the country from one website. The Susan Deacon Properties Portal.

CONTENTS
1. Prestige developments
2. New release property
3. There is more to Africa - 2010 Soccer news
4. Beatle mania in George
5. Ina Paarman's weeknite winner

PRESTIGE DEVELOPMENTS
CAPE TOWN - STRAND & GORDONS BAY

TOPAZ BEACHFRONT APARTMENTS

Topaz the most exclusive apartment building in the Western Cape. Situated on the Strand Beach Road golden mile. Spectacular unobstrcuted ocean views. Interior designed and decorate by up market consultants. 2 Bedroom apartment, 2 bathrooms, living areas, gourmet kitchen, 2 balconies, 2 secure basement parkings and store room. Indoor & outdoor swimming pools and gym area.

ID3968

NEW RELEASE PROPERTY
________________________________________NAUTICA

Nautica is a modern well-designed apartment building within 100m from the Strand Beachfront located between Van Der Spuy, George and Victoria Street.

This ultra modern building consists out of one bedroom, two bedroom and loft apartments with limited views of False Bay and unlimited views over Hottentots Holland mountains.

This well designed building consists of 5 storeys. The lower ground level all has private gardens and entrances to Van Der Spuy Street for easy access to the Strand Beachfront.

From R835 000
ID3963

________________________________________

GLADSTONE PLACE

Gladstone Place is a 28 unit Sectional title security complex situated within walking distance from the Strand CBD and beaches. Multi Projects has negotiated an exclusive deal for our investors in this popular holiday destination.

FRom R525 000
ID3964

________________________________________

MONT BLANC APARTMENTS

FROM R469 000 - Buy now pay in 2010, Only R15 000 deposit, VAT Back, Fully furnished option, Appointed Management and administration company, Up to 100% Bonds available, No transfer or Bond costs, Housekeeping service, Prime investment, Within walking distance of the Strand CBD, Well designed kitchens with Granite tops.

ID3965

________________________________________

LA BELLA SECURITY DEVELOPMENT

Labella is a sectional title security complex consisting out of eleven clusters being developed in two phases. Labella is a security complex with tarred and cobblestone road, landscaped gardens and a entertainment area and swimming pool. The complex consist out of eleven different style one and two apartments and has ample covered and guest parking. Labella is the ideal location for holiday makers, investors and owner occupiers alike. Very good rental potential.

Fully furnishing option with Hotel star grading will be provided for those owners that partake in the holiday accommodation rental pool option. An appointed management and administration company will manage the housekeeping service on behalf of the owners. Owners may also use their holiday apartments with 24hr prior notice. The increase rental income from holiday accommodation includes Gladstone a preferred choice.

From R559 000
ID3969

________________________________________

GEORGE - BLANCO

Modern 3 bedroom home with easy living features. Kitchen, laundry, covered BBQ/ patio and garage.

R1 050 000
ID3974

________________________________________

________________________________________

THERE IS MORE TO AFRICA - 2010 SOCCER NEWS

South Africa will stage the best World Cup in history when it hosts the global showpiece in 2010, Barcelona's Cameroon international striker Cameroon Eto'o said on Thursday.

"FIFA did the right thing in granting the World Cup to us. I say and I repeat that this will be the most beautiful Cup ever held," the former African Player of the Year told a sport conference in Barcelona.
"People don't know Africa, when someone talks about Africa, people believe we still use bows and arrows," the 27-year-old added.
"They will be pleasantly surprised if they go to South Africa. It's the best way to show the whole world that there is more to Africa than just famine."
________________________________________
BEATLE MAINIA IN GEORGE

Fans of the Fab Four cannot afford to miss an evening of nostalgia paying tribute to the Beatles.

The show "Beatlemania on Tour" will bring back many golden memories when it visits George on 8 March.

A highly talented Australian cast will take you through an amazing musical biography as they pay tribute to The Beatles, one of the most influential bands ever, from Liverpool.

The show employs authentic Beatle instruments, amplifiers and costumes and promises to perform faithful renditions of everyone's favourite Beatle classics.

Beatlemania re-creates the spirit of the Fab Four with Chris Frazer as John Lennon on rhythm guitar, lead guitar, piano, mouth organ and lead vocals, Came-ron Charters as Paul McCartney on bass guitar, piano and lead vocals, Paul Green as George Harrison on lead guitar, piano and lead vocals and Michael Brady as Ringo Starr on drums, percussion and lead vocals.

Musically, no detail is overlooked as Beatlemania perform every song live and in its original key.

Two lucky readers can each win a set of double tickets to the concert by sending an sms to 072 916 1383. Type your name and "Beatlemania GH".
________________________________________
INA PAARMAN’S WEEKNITE WINNER

PENNE WITH PAN ROASTED BUTTERNUT & SAGE
Serves 4 - 6
Pan roasting the butternut gives delicious flavour depth to this economical vegetarian main course. If fresh sage is a problem, use basil or half the amount of fresh rosemary.

SAUCE
3 T (45 ml) butter
2 T (30 ml) canola oil
± 16 sage leaves
1 medium size butternut ± 750 g-1 kg, peeled and cubed 2 cm x 2 cm
1 bunch spring onions, finely sliced with most of green tops
1 t (5 ml) Ina Paarman's Seasoned Sea Salt
2 t (10 ml) sugar
1 T (15 ml) Ina Paarman's White Sauce Powder
2 cups (500 ml) water
1 t (10 ml) Ina Paarman's Vegetable Stock Powder
1 T (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
PASTA
400-500 g penné
2 T (30 ml) olive or canola oil
Ina Paarman's Green Onion Seasoning
TO SERVE
¼ cup (60 ml) grated pecorino or cheddar cheese
reserved spring onion
reserved fried sage
Warm a large heavy based frying pan. Add butter and oil, when the butter foams add the sage leaves and just crisp them. Remove sage with a slotted spoon and keep on one side.
Add cubed butternut in an even layer and cook over high heat, without stirring, until the butternut begins to caramelize to a spotty brown colour. Stir and continue browning the butternut for another 4-5 minutes. Add spring onions (reserve a little for garnish), Seasoned Sea Salt, sugar and White Sauce Powder. Stir to blend.

Add water and Vegetable Stock Powder. Simmer for about 5 minutes with a lid on until the butternut is tender. Add the lemon juice and taste for seasoning. In the meantime, cook the pasta according to packet instructions. Drain and toss with oil and Green Onion Seasoning to taste. Top pasta with butternut mixture. Top with grated cheese, reserved spring onions and crispy sage leaves.

Ina Paarman on the web - www.paarman.co.za

Weekly News - 23 February 2009

2009-02-23T06:44:00.000-08:00

End of February and we are already approaching the 3 month of 2009. Some new features to our weekly newsletter is that for cooks and those starting out, we have made an agreement with Ina Paarman to supply our readers with some featured recipes in our newsletters. Paarman Foods is a significant food business servicing a wide spread of different markets with a diverse product offering, all South African. Visit their web – www.inapaarman.co.za

We will also include some news on the 2010 Soccer World Cup on a weekly base.

Enjoy reading and feedback from our readers is always welcome.

CONTENTS
1. Principals Choice
2. New release property
3. 2010 Soccer World Cup ticket frenzy
4. New tax laws comming into effect
5. Tax filling season 2009
6. Important changes for SA visitors to UK
7. Structure plan for CBD
8. Glenwood House flagship for the enviroment
9. Tax budget business breakfast
10. Capital Gains Tax limit now pushed up to R2 Million
11. New interest rates
12. French flair
13. Ina Paarman's weeknite winner

PRINCIPALS CHOICE
GEORGE - BLANCO

MONT FLEUR LUXURY HOME

This luxury Lifestyle Estate is located against the hillsides of the Outeniqua Mountains in the Southern Cape, which forms part of the famous Cape Garden Route. The site lends itself to a healthy and secure coastal lifestyle. The development utilizes the opportunities the site has to offer and also preserves and enhances the inherent qualities of the location.
This home is the centre point of this village, with character and charm. 5 Bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 4 living areas, kitchen, laundry, pantry, dressing room, BBQ area covered, study and this home has B&B potential.

R3 790 000
ID3945

NEW RELEASE PROPERTY
KWAZULU NATAL

ESTATE AND RESORT DEVELOPMENT LAND APPROVED
An exclusive country estate at an affordable price. It allows one to experience life as it once was, were children could roam around freely, exploring and discovering nature in a secure environment and life still had the tranquillity of the countryside. It is a place were families can start and grow old, were couples can relax and enjoy the sunset, where the air is still fresh and the wind brings in the cool sea breeze, it is like the country we grew up in, the land we fell in love with and the lifestyle we want our children to experience. This is what inspired the creation of this estate. A 217-hectare development with 1336 development opportunities with breathtaking views.

To ensure that the residents enjoy the rolling hills of green and can still hear the bubbling little rivers, 40% of the estate is green with every care being taken to ensure that the rich biodiversity of the area is maintained. Despite the reasonable pricing, plot sizes are between 500 sqm and 5500 sqm allowing sufficient space for privacy. With the average plot size being 900 sqm

Plans, layouts and development approval available on request.

R5 950 000
ID3954

GREAT BRAK RIVER - PIENAAR STRAND

Brand new with views of the ocean. 3 Bedrooms, 3 bathrooms - 2 en-suite, BBQ room, 3 living rooms, kitchen, pantry and 2 garages.

R1 350 000
ID3952

2010 SOCCER WORLD CUP TICKET FRENZY

Johannesburg — FIFA has reported that a scramble for tickets ensued on its website following the launch of 2010 FIFA World Cup tickets globally on 20 February 2009.
"Twenty-four hours after the online tickets went on sale, applications from 128 countries for 216 975 tickets had been received via the website, excluding the hard paper applications handed in by South African residents at FNB branches in the host country," FIFA confirmed.
The biggest number of orders came from South Africans, followed by applicants from Great Britain, the USA, Germany, Brazil, Australia, Japan, Mexico, Canada, Switzerland, Ireland, Netherlands, Spain and Argentina.
FIFA Honorary Vice-President and Chairman of the FIFA Ticketing Sub-Committee, David Will said the response globally has been fantastic.
"These are fantastic numbers, underlining yet again the fervour taking hold around the world for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the first on the African continent.
"It is very exciting and further evidence that the global football family want to be part of this unique event on this very special continent," Mr Will said.
Fans have until midnight on 31 March 2009 to make ticket applications on the www.FIFA.comwebsite.

NEW TAX LAWS COMING INTO EFFECT

The government is working Income Tax Act. One proposal is to develop a uniform definition of “employment income” that would apply across all tax instruments and align with UIF contributions and the skills development levy. This would help to reduce compliance cost for employers. Draft proposal will be issued for comment before the end of 2010.

TAX FILING SEASON 2009

The tax season 2009 timetable:

* a 60-day reconciliation period for employers in April and May;

* Tax season for individuals begins in July;

* deadlines ( for individuals and trusts filing manually) and 20 November (for e-filing)
Value Added Tax

The annual turnover for voluntary registration as a VAT vendor to rise to R50 000 (from R20 000) with effect from 1 March 2010. The threshold for compulsory registration as a Vat vendor is to rise from R300 000 to R1 million.

(Sources Budget Speech 2009; Tax Proposals 2009/10. Full texts, and various guides and tax tables are available on www.treasury.gov.za/documents/national%20budget/2009/default.aspx)

IMPORTANT CHANGES FOR SA VISITORS TO UK

The British government announced who wish to visit or transit the United Kingdom(England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.)

From 3 March 2009, South African nationals will require a visa to enter or transit the UK unlessthey qualifies for a temporary exemption. To qualify under this exemption you must have travelled to the UK recently and have evidence of your visits in your current passport (an UK entry stamp for example). If this is the case, it means you will not need a visa if you want to:

*Transit

*Visit for less than six months and

* Do not want to work in the UK.

If the evidence of entry is in an expired passport, you will not qualify for the temporary exemption. This exemption will only apply until the middle of 2009.

Below are some guidelines on procedures and costs to assist in applying for a visa.

Your Visa application must be made in person at the Visa Application Centre (VAC) nearest to you. These Centers are located in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria and Durban and they represent the British High Commission. You will be required to provide scans of your fingerprints and have your digital photograph taken.

No persons are allowed to lodge a visa application direct with the British High Commission. The application process list of requirement s, applications from payment procedures and the address of the offices that you need to visit can all be found on the following website: www.vis-uk-za.com

Application Forms

All of the visa applications forms (VAFs) and General Guidance for visa can also be found on the UK Border Agency Website http:/www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/howtoapply/vafs

You need to fill in only one of the forms, depending on what type of visa you want to apply for. The Guidance notes will tell you which form you should fill in.

At the back of the VAF there is a checklist that gives advice about additional documents that you need when making your application.

These Visa tip are complement s of Linda Scholtz, Manager, Harvey Word Travel.

STRUCTURE PLAN FOR THE CBD

The George Council will be holding a presentation on 24 February to inform the public of a local structure plan that intends to prepare for the central business district (CBD) and surrounding central area of George. All background information and principles that are applicable to such a plan will be made available. The presentation will start 19:00 in the Banquet Hall of the George Civic Centre. The business community of George and any other interested parties are invited to make inputs for the preparations of the plan.

There will be opportunity for written inputs to the deputy director of planning during normal office hours at the Council’s office 5th floor, York Street, by not later than Monday 23 March.

Any person who is unable to write may submit their comments verbally to the Council’s offices where they will be assisted by a staff member to put their comments in writing.

For more information, phone Stiaan Carstens, at 044 801 9191 or send an e-mail to stiaan@george.org.za

GLENWOOD HOUSE FLAGSHIP FOR ENVIRONMENT

Glenwood house received their international Eco-School flag on Friday as part of the international programme for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The programme is implemented in 47 countries, most of which are the northern hemisphere.
SA was the first country to link the progamme to the school curriculum and the National Department of Education was a partner to this planning.

Kenya then followed SA’s example. The programme was evaluated in 2007, streamlined, and the rest of the continent has been following suit.

TAX BUDGET BUSINESS BREAKFAST

The George Business Chamber in association with PKF (George) is presenting this years tax budget business breakfast on 6 March at Tramonto.

Paul Gering is the speaker and he will give a tax budget update for 2009. He qualified as a CA in 1992 and completed his H.Dip tax in 1994 Gering has presented numerous post-budget seminars since 1994 and co-ordinated the annual Tax guide for PKF since 2000. He has been the tax partner at PKF Durban since 1997.

The breakfast will start at 7:30 for 8:00.

The cost is R195 per person (R1560 per table of eight persons.)

It is also an opportunity to network with like-minded business people and to treat business clients and staff.

Booking is essential. Contact Colleen at 044 874 3349. Bookings close on 4 March or earlier, if sold out.

CAPITAL GAINS TAX LIMIT NOW PUSHED UP TO R2-MILLION

People selling their primary residence with a gross value of less than R2-million would not be liable for CGT- where their primary residence is concerned. Formally this was R1.5-million.

This is based on the gross sales proceeds of the residence.”

Remember that you can also deduct maintenance costs from the gross figure before getting the taxable figure.

Shares in Share block schemes

Under current law, the transfer of shares in a share block scheme can trigger transfer duty, VAT, or neither. The law will be clarified so that at least one from of indirect tax applies.

Stamp Duty

No Changes were announced.

Transfer Duty

No Changes were announced.

NEW INTEREST RATE - PUTTING THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE

Everyone is very grateful for another decrease in the interest rate last Thursday.

Ronel Heyns, Chairman of EASA Garden Route hopes this has a positive impact on the property market and that it will translate into more sales!

“The chart with a comparison between interest rates from 1986 up to last Thursday makes for interesting reading.”

It was supplied by Better Bond.

“It is very interesting to look at these figures and realize that interest rates are relatively low if you compare it to many previous years. If you look only ten years back, on the 11 January 1999 the interest rate was 22%.

Five years further on the 16 August 2004 it was down to 11% and today we stand at 14%. Please have a look for yourself.

“We hope this information gives you some hope. My best advice currently is to try and stay positive and to hang in there, things will get better.

FRENCH FLAIR

More than 600 athletes with disabilities from across South Africa and abroad took to the streets of George on Saturday to compete in the 7th annual Outeniqua Wheelchair Challenge (OCC) which exceeded all expectations.

There was disappointment for local hero Ernst van Dyk who led the men’s T53/T54 category racing wheelchair marathon through half-way and looked a certain winner. In the second lap one of his chair’s wheels punctured, forcing the Paralympics medalist to effect running repairs. In the wet conditions though, the time taken to do this allowed this French rivals. Denis Lemeunier and Alain Fuss, to pass and Van Dyk could not make up the ground before the finish.

In the end Lemeunier won the race in an excellent time of 1:42:48 under wet conditions.

Fuss finished second (1:44:29) and Van Dyk came home a brave third in 1:45:20.

INA PAARMAN’S WEEKNITE WINNER

Serves 4 - 6
Pre-soaking the meat in a mixture of yoghurt and Tikka Sauce gives outstanding tenderness and great flavour.

500 g leg or shoulder of lamb cubed 2cm x 2cm
2 t (10 ml) Ina Paarman's Garlic & Herb Seasoning
½ cup (125 ml) plain Greek yoghurt
1 x 200 ml Ina Paarman's Tikka Curry Coat & Cook Sauce
1 onion, cut into 4 wedges and separated into leaves, cut large leaves in half across
± 200 g dried peaches (halved) or apricots

Season the cubed meat with Garlic & Herb Seasoning. Alternate the meat, onion and peach halves on kebab sticks. Mix the yoghurt and Tikka Sauce together and pour over the sosaties, turn to coat. Leave overnight in the fridge, covered.
Bring sosaties to room temperature and braai over a gentle fire until cooked on the inside and lightly charred on the outside. Baste regularly with remaining yoghurt marinade.

Weekly News - 16 February 2009

2009-02-16T06:38:00.000-08:00

CONTENTS
1. Principals Choice
2. New release property
3. More cash for 2010 stadiums
4. Great Grapes Winefest - Tramonto the Venue

PRINCIPALS CHOICE
GEORGE - KINGSWOOD

UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY - EXCEPTIONAL LOCATION

Glamourous ultra modern 4 bedroomed architectual masterpiece. This unique home has everything you have ever dreamed of. Luxury bathrooms, outdoor pool, BBQ and entertainment area, laundry, 3 bathrooms, dressing room, 2 garages ........

From R4 320 000
ID3939

NEW RELEASE PROPERTY
MOSSEL BAY - ISLAND VIEWS

BARBADOS DEVELOPMENT
Luxury duplex homes in a secure estate with ocean views. 3 Bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, balcony, living area, BBQ area, 2 garages and swimming pool in the complex.

From R1 495 000
ID3928

MOSSEL BAY - ISLAND VIEW

Brand new with views of the ocean. 3 Bedrooms, 3 bathrooms - 2 en-suite, BBQ room, 3 living rooms, kitchen, pantry and 2 garages.

R1 700 000
ID3929

HEROLDS BAY - OUBAAI GOLF ESTATE

Stand on fairway with spectacular views on the Oubaai Golf Estate. BARGAIN BUY!!!!
R830 000
ID3931

MOSSEL BAY - NAUTICA

Fully furnished luxurious one bedroom apartment. Balcony with beautiful sea view. Lots of beautiful golf courses outdoor activities.

R1 295 000
ID3932

GEORGE - EDEN

Low maintenance home on large stand. Peaceful area. 4 Living areas, BBQ room, 3 bedrooms, kitchen, patio, cellar and 2 garages.

R1 995 000
ID3936

GEORGE - HEATHERLANDS
This home is situated on a large stand and has a park-like feel to it. 3 Sunny living areas, 6 spacious bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, dressing room, store room, tool room, kitchen, laundry, staff area with bathroom, patio and 3 garages. Swiiming pool and BBQ area.

R2 600 000
ID3937

MORE CASH FOR 2010 STADIUMS

Finance Minister Trevor Manuel said on Wednesday that the 2010 soccer World Cup will be one of the sources of output growth improvement next year.
Presenting his Budget in Parliament, Manuel said he expects output growth to improve then, supported by public infrastructure spending, lower interest rates and a recovery in the world economy as well as the World Cup.
At a press conference in Parliament the minister said the World Cup was not just about bringing the world's best soccer players to this country or about building soccer stadiums, but was also a means of improving the country's infrastructure, and the Budget Review points out that the World Cup project covers a range of activities from stadium construction to transport, tourism and marketing, health and disaster management, safety and security and telecommunications.
"Stadium construction is progressing rapidly, with some projects ahead of schedule," the Review reads.
To provide for increased construction costs and improved project management, a further R463m is allocated to the stadiums construction grant. "By the end of the process the government will have contributed R11,5bn to stadium construction," the Review said.

Allocations of R505m in 2009/10 and R210m in 2010/11 will support host city preparations for the Confederations Cup this year, and the main event next year.

The public transport infrastructure and systems grant receives an allocation of R11,9bn over the next three years to establish, construct and improve new and existing public transport infrastructure and systems in large municipalities including the 2010 host cities.

The Review notes: "The cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg are moving ahead with plans for bus rapid transit systems intended to facilitate greater use of public transport and alleviate road congestion."

GREAT GRAPES WINEFEST - TRAMONTO

Weekly News - 9 February 2009

2009-02-09T07:06:00.000-08:00

The recent 100 basis points decrease in interest rates was a welcome call to all South Africans. According to the lastest news from Governor Tito Mboweni we can see another interest rate relief in the not so distant future.

A report from News24 as follows:

Johannesburg - South Africa's central bank monetary policy committee
(MPC) could meet again on interest rates before its scheduled April meeting, depending on economic growth and other data, Governor Tito Mboweni said on Friday.
"There is going to be data coming out towards the end of February and also mid-April, and if that data indicates that the MPC must meet, we might actually meet before the next scheduled meeting," he said in an interview with CNBC Africa, referring to GDP data on February 24.
Mboweni also said the MPC decision to cut the repo rate by 100 basis points to 10.5% announced on Thursday was unanimous, and that he personally believes that interest rates were too high in the country.

CONTENTS
1. New release developments
2. New release property
3. Choo-Tjoe: Partners are being sought
4. Radar at George Airport
5. Register your team now
6. SARB takes chunk out of rates
7. Repay your bond above rate if you can
8. Stable prime in 2009

NEW RELEASE DEVELOPMENTS
KNYSNA - BRENTON ON SEA

BRENTON BAY LUXURY HOTEL APARTMENTS

Rental pool options to generate income on your investment. The location couldn’t be more spectacular, Brenton-on-sea, Knysna, The Garden Route, South Africa. Need we say more? The old Brenton-on-Sea Hotel has made way for this spectacular sectional title hotel that offers investors the opportunity of owning their own hotel suite, one, two or three bedroom unit, fully furnished in an upper class setting and environment. The units have spectacular views of the ocean below and direct access to the beach. The development will include a cocktail bar, restaurant and modern SPA..... more

From R1 995 000
ID3924

MOSSEL BAY - THE POINT

THE POINT VILLAGE LUXURY BEACH APARTMENTS
Point Village luxury apartments is situated in the Mossel Bay Point area, on the beach. Project is due to be completed by the end of 2009. The first floor will consist of 16 hotel room units and the second floor will consist of 7 luxury apartments.

From R1 300 000
ID3923

NEW RELEASE PROPERTY

MOSSEL BAY - TERGNIET

1 Bedroom beach home, within walking distance to the beach, with ocean views and secure.
R495 000
ID3908

GEORGE - HEATHER PARK

Situated in the popular Golf Park 2 development. Quality craftmanship by top developer EARP Properties. Sunny low maintenance home, 3 living areas, BBQ room, patio, pool area, pantry, kitchen, laundry, 2 carports, 3 bedrooms and 2 garages.
R1 799 000
ID3909

GEORGE - ROOI RIVER RIFF

Tuscan designed home with water-features, large garden and mountain views. Spacious interior with designer finishes, 3 bedroom, 3 bathrooms, 3 living areas, BBQ area, patio, kitchen, laundry, dressing room and 2 garages.

R2 470 000
ID3910

GEORGE - EAST

Cottage style home close to shopping centres. 3 Bedrooms, 2 living areas, kitchen, laundry, sun room, tool room and garage.

R920 000
ID3920

GEORGE - BO DORP
A home with feel and comfort. Living areas, leading to patio, BBQ and outdoor pool area. 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, study and play room.

R1 785 000
ID3921

CHOO-TJOE: PARTNERS ARE BEING SOUGHT

In examining the future possibilities of the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism is considering the formation of a private public partnership specifically on the George to Knysna service.

But on the George to Mossel Bay route a private operator is being sought.

“Whoever operates this train service will have to lease the railway-line from Transnet.”

So said Chief Director of Tourism, Labeeqah Schuurman on Monday.

She said a communiqué would be forthcoming from Chief Director Garth Strachan at the end of the week.

At the steering Committee held on 30 January 2009 the options detailed in the business cases for both the George to Knysna service and the one to Mossel Bay was being studied. A financial business plan will be presented on 10 March. On that date both business cases will be scrutinized.

During the floods of 2006 and 2007 various sections of the railway-line suffered damages which ran into millions of rands.

RADAR AT GEORGE AIRPORT
SAFETY AND CAPACITY ENHANCED

The new secondary radar which is being built at the George airport is set to enhance safety and capacity to the level of that of Cape Town International Airport.

In order to ensure increased safety and capacity in the George Terminal Are (TMA), the installation of the secondary radar was jointly identified as a requirement by ATNS and the airlines. George Airport previously been equipped with radar and the benefits of the secondary radar will be increased safety and capacity.

This will lead to more aircraft being able to land and depart during a specific time. The implementation of the radar will also safely enhance the capacity during the FIFA World Cup 2010.

REGISTER YOUR TEAM NOW
LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE

The CANSA George Relay For Life is only six weeks away. Register your team now to ensure a campsite by calling CANSA on 044 874 4824. Thiscelebration of life brings the Southern Cape community together in a unified effort to fight cancer.

Former and current cancer patients, those who have lost a loved one to cancer, businesses, families, civic organizations, and the public are invited to take part in this exciting team event, Relay for Life takes place from 17:00 on Saturday, 14 March until 07:00 on Sunday, 15 March 2009 at the Outeniqua High School Grounds.

CANSA Relay for Life is a family-oriented event where the participants enjoy the camaraderie of participating in a team, whilst raising funds to help eliminate cancer.

SARB TAKES CHUNK OUT OF RATES

The South African Reserve Bank's monetary policy committee has cut the key repo rate for the second consecutive meeting.
Cape Town - The South African Reserve Bank's monetary policy committee (MPC) has cut the key repo rate by 100 basis points, bringing it down to 10.5%, with the prime lending rate dropping to 14%.
The repo rate is the rate at which the central bank lends to other banks, and the prime lending rate is the benchmark rate at which banks lend to customers.
This is the second successive reduction in the repo rate. The committee's 50 basis-point cut in December marked the end of a 500 basis-point tightening in rates since June 2006, which resulted in a rise in the cost of debt servicing for South African consumers.
According to a Reuters poll, 16 economists were in favour of a 100 basis-point cut, while 11 forecast a 50 basis-point reduction. Economists forecasting the 100 basis point cut pointed to the slowdown in the South African economy, rate cuts by other central banks around the world, and the bleak outlook for growth in 2009 as reasons to support their forecasts.
In a research note on Thursday, Absa Capital also forecast a 100 basis-point cut. It said that base effects stemming from past high fuel and food prices should see inflation continue to fall sharply in 2009. The positive inflation outlook, it said, together with prospects of markedly slower economic growth augured well for a 100 basis-point cut.
The 100 basis-point cut marks a break in the bank's recent tradition - over the last five years, it had kept to changes of 50 basis-point increments.

REPAY YOUR BOND ABOVE RATE IF YOU CAN

With interest rates likely to drop by 2,5% over the coming year, homeowners should seriously consider "biting the bullet" and continuing to pay their bonds at the existing rate.
Build your equity on your main asset, your home.

Many bondholders still do not appreciate just how much money they can save and how many months they can cut off their bond repayment period if they pay above the stipulated rate.

Supposing we are fortunate enough to see the 2,5% interest rate drop predicted for this year actually come about, a bondholder with a R900k bond (the average size for a middle class bond in SA today) could, if he continues to pay at current levels, save eight years of payments and some R730k in all. This is a significant sum and surely one worth going for even it does mean being 'short' financially for a few years.

Even if, as seems unlikely, properties continue to lose value for a few more months this year – or at some other time in the future – the bondholder who has paid off a substantial sum, is in a far better position than the one moving into "negative equity", i.e. owing more on his property than he can recoup by selling it.

This, as we have seen in the UK and the US, can be a disastrous situation and should be avoided at all costs.

STABLE PRIME IN 2009

The prime lending rate is expected to end 2009 at 11 percent, Nedbank Group's economic unit said on Friday.
The prime rate presently stands at 15 percent.

Nedbank said credit figures released earlier on Friday — along with economic data released earlier this week — had boosted the case for a more aggressive interest rate cut at next week's Monetary Policy Committee meeting.

"Recent releases seem to confirm that the manufacturing, mining and retail sectors are all in recession, while inflationary pressures at both the producer and consumer level are receding fast," it said.

Furthermore, the global economy's woes had intensified, which would add to deflationary pressures and the possibility of a more protracted slowdown in South Africa.

"Given the lag between loosening monetary policy and the impact on the real economy, the SA Reserve Bank will probably opt to act more aggressively in the early part of the year, cutting rates by 100-basis-points in both February and April before reverting to 50-basis-point cuts in later meetings," Nedbank said.

Earlier the SA Reserve Bank released data showing that private sector credit extension — or credit growth — eased for a second consecutive month to 14.04 percent annually in December from 15.30 percent the previous month — an indication that the general level of credit extended to the private sector was responding to the elevated interest rate environment.

Weekly News - 2 February 2009

2009-02-03T07:09:00.000-08:00

CONTENTS

1. NEW RELEASE DEVELOPMENT
2. NEW RELEASE PROPERTY
3. GEORGE MUNICIPALITY
4. OCC AROUND THE CORNER
5. REACH THE HEART OF THE MATTER WITH HEARTLINES
6. DUBAI INVESTS IN SOUTH AFRICA
7. CPIX CONTINUES TO COOL
8. SOL PLANS A BIG PARTY

NEW RELEASE DEVELOPMENT

PIRATES CREEK - WILDERNESS

Situated in the heart of the Garden Route on the Touws River in Wilderness. The development has two restuarants, swimming pool and other recreational facilities.

Come and relax on the river and enjoy fishing, canoeing, hiking, bird watching, or a breath taking sundowner BBQ.

Log cabins for holiday or permanent residence from R1 400 000 on the river edge. Stands to build your home from R595 000.

From R595 000
ID3896

NEW RELEASE PROPERTY

GLENBARRIE - CLOSE TO GOLF COURSES

The ideal lock-up and go up market, quality finished home. Gourmet kitchen with granite finishes, patio, 3 bedrooms, study, lounge, dining room, 2 bathrooms and 2 garages.

R1 799 000
ID1834

KING GEORGE PARK - TRANQUIL AREA

3 Bedroom home with family room, lounge, kitchen, 2 garages and a sore room.

R1 026 000
ID3892

WILDERNESS - NATURE ON SEA

Secure estate with nature setting on the beach front. Lovely Thatch home with 3 bedrooms en-suite, 2 garages, 3 living areas, staff area with bathroom, patio and bar area.

R2 160 000
ID3906

WILDERNESS - BARGAIN BUY

Neat and solid 3 bedroom home, close to the main beach with kitchen, 2 living areas, garage and patio.

R1 399 000
ID3907

GEORGE MUNICIPALITY - SECOND MOST PRODUCTIVE

George Municipality - which has over 1000 employees - has been rated as one of the most productive in the B (medium size) category in the country by the magazine Service: Leadership in Local Government. George was placed second just after Saldanha Bay on the West Coast.

In the A-municipality category, Johannesburg was placed tops, followed by Tshwane (Pretoria) and Cape Town.

Municipal Manager, Cecil Africa said that this was a remarkable feat given that there are currently 200 posts that need to be filled. With George having the highest growth rate in the country, the municipality was therefore somewhat under-capacitated.

OCC AROUND THE CORNER

With the Outeniqua Wheelchair Challenge (OCC) only a few weeks away, the organisers are currently making the final arrangements for the big day on Saturday, l4 February.

"The athletes - and organisers - are all very excited," explains program director, Esther Watson. "We also feel very privileged as we have three entrants from the Transkei this year - a first for the OCC."

For awareness
"The OCC is a huge awareness event through which the committee would like to show George and the rest of South Africa that people with disabilities are simply differently able.”

Celebrities on the board
Well South –African Actor, Neels van Jaarsveld will be part of the action on Saturday, 14 February when he pushes a disabled child in a wheelchair.

Known for his role as Dr. Gideon Bason in the series Binnelanders and for a series of unique Klipdrift television advertisements (did anyone say Eish?), Neels is one of many local celebrities supporting this day.

REACH THE HEART OF THE MATTER WITH HEARTLINES

Heartlines will be presenting a breakfast at the George Museum on Wednesday, 11 February, two weeks prior to its second TV series called ‘Hopeville".

This series is most creative and will be screened weekly starting 24 February on SABC 2 at 19:30. It will focus on actually living out positive values in our daily lives and communities.

Heartlines is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that gained national attention through a TV series promoting values in 2006. This was screened on all SABC TV channels and the campaign branded "8 Weeks, 8 Values One National Conversation".

The objective of Heartlines is to help people live out their good values and to translate them into significant positive social action.

DUBAI INVESTS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Despite gloomy forecasts for the global property industry, Better Homes — the largest real estate agency in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) — has bolstered confidence in South Africa by expanding their business to include a branch in Cape Town.
Double the size of its nearest competitor in the UAE, with an international workforce of 700, Better Homes was founded in Dubai over 20 years ago. Their expansion into other markets over the last three years has seen the company opening offices in Asia, Europe and now South Africa.
"Our connection with South Africa is extremely close — we have a large number of employees working in Dubai originally from South Africa," said Billy Rautenbach, Director of Operations for the Dubai office. "We are very excited about our new partnership with Brendon Miller and his team and we welcome them into the Better Homes family."
Following the trend set by the Dubai World consortium’s investments in Cape Town, and with a database of over a million investor clients, the entry of this estate agency to the market certainly bodes well for South Africa’s competitiveness on the global property stage.
"We look forward to offering our South African clients in Dubai an opportunity to invest in their home country," said Billy Rautenbach. "As well as our Middle Eastern clients who have shown a great interest in South Africa and the Western Cape in particular."

CPIX CONTINUES TO COOL

The increase in South Africa's consumer price index excluding mortgage rate changes (CPIX) for metro and other areas, which is used by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) for its inflation target, was up 10.3 percent year-on-year in December from 12.1 percent y/y in November, Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) said on Wednesday.
"It's a fairly encouraging number. To a large extent the market is looking to the January number that will be released in February. If anything it's going to solidify rate cut expectations.
"Looking ahead to next week, although inflation is coming down quite nicely, we're still looking at a rate cut of 50 basis points rather than 100 basis points cause of ongoing vulnerability on the currency."
Fanie Joubert, Efficient Group
"That is much better than expected. It shows that the cooling trend in inflation is continuing and that is definitely a positive sign.
"This provides more scope for more interest rate decreases in the near future."
Carmen Altenkirch, Nedbank
"Consumer inflation ended the year firmly on a downward trajectory. 2009 is expected to see inflation slowing sharply. The January figures should show a significant slowdown in inflation to about 7.4 percent."

SOL KERZENER PLANS A BIG PARTY

Three months after throwing “the party of the decade” a $20-million star-studded fiesta for the opening of his 1539-room hotel in Dubai South Africa’s Sun King, Sol Kerzner, is planning another.
The 73-year-old hotel and casino tycoon this week said the grand opening of the Tower Marina, a R1-billion hotel resort development at the marina on Cape Town’s Waterfront, was scheduled for April.
Completion of the development — which includes the Tower Marina’s 92 suites, linked by bridges to two man made islands that will house 40 villas and a 1200m² spa — is four months ahead of schedule.
Kerzner said his team had initially planned to complete construction and open for business in July.
“But, during my last visit over Christmas, we went through every detail at great length and agreed we could open ahead of schedule.
“I’m keen to open the resort while the weather is still perfect,” he said.
Kerzner, who serves as both chairman and chief executive of Kerzner International, said it was very unusual for a development of this size to be completed ahead of schedule.

Weekly News - 26 January 2009

2009-01-26T06:06:00.000-08:00

CONTENTS
1. NEW RELEASE DEVELOPMENTS
2. NEW RELEASE PROPERTY
3. PROPERTY OUTPERFORMS EQUITY
4. WHY A 100 POINT RATE CUT IS VITAL

NEW RELEASE DEVELOPMENTS
MOSSEL BAY

VILLA ITALIA

3 Interior options to choose from. Solar & LP gas, low cost living, quality finishes, only 66 units in this secure apartment development, close to shopping malls, low levies, lock up garages, sea views.

From R439 000
ID3880

ROBERTSON

BERGZICHT SECURITY VILLAGE

Buy now and only pay in July 2010 - The ideal investment opportunity in the heart of the Cape Winelands.

Invest in this lifestyle estate within that country atmosphere and tranquillity of the valley of wine, horses and roses. Nestled on the picturesque hillside of the Langeberge mountains in Robertson, it offers the supreme beauty and tranquil country living on the famous Route 62. More.....

From R299 000
ID3881

NEW RELEASE PROPERTY

HEROLDS BAY

OCEAN VIEW MANSHION

A jewel with breath-taking ocean views. 3 Living areas, BBQ area, large patio with 2 swimming pools, jacuzzi, wine cellar, 4 bedrooms en-suite, kitchen, laundry, 2 garages and a 1 bedroom flat, private and ideal for guests.

R5 300 000
ID3883

GLENTANA

LUXURY BEACH-FRONT HOME

Up market beach front home with quality finishes throughout. Doulble volume with 4 living areas, open plan kitchen, laundry, 4 bedrooms en-suite, 3 garages and a luxury 1 bedroom apartment with Cherry wood kitchen and garage.

R7 500 000
ID3887

GEORGE - GLEN BARRIE

LARGE - SPACIOUS PRIVATE HOME

Situated in a quiet street, with private garden, swimming pool, covered BBQ area, 3 living areas, kitchen, laundry, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, study, pantry, 2 garages and a 1 bedroom flat with lounge and kitchen.

R2 050 000
ID3878

PROPERTY OUTPERFORMS EQUITY

SA-listed property outperformed SA equities by an impressive 18% when measuring total returns.
South African listed property stocks continued to outperform local equities during 2008, despite the downturn in global financial markets and the sector’s impressive resilience is set to continue in 2009.

Norbert Sasse, Chairman of the Property Loan Stock Association of SA (PLSA) and CEO of South Africa’s largest listed property company Growthpoint Properties Limited notes that many analysts advocate property’s defensive qualities in turbulent markets. "The resilience of South African listed property stocks in the current climate may well be evidence of the defensive quality of South African listed property,” says Sasse.

“The higher returns of SA property coincided with lower volatility in prices resulting in even-better outperformance on a risk-adjusted basis,” explains analyst Leon Allison of Macquarie First South Securities. Allison explains that a low foreign shareholding is also a contributing factor to the lower price volatility.

“The sector’s strong performance was driven by sharply lower bond yields since July, continued growth in distributions, relatively good visibility and near-certain double-digit yields underpinning its defensiveness,” says Allison. However, returns in hard currencies were less impressive due to the weaker ZAR.

WHY A 100 POINT RATE CUT IS VITAL

The South African Reserve Bank should take the bold step of reducing the repo rate by a full 100 basis points next month when its Monetary Policy Committee meets.

"If the Reserve Bank were to cut the interest rates by 100 basis points when it meets on 11 February, it would have the effect of stimulating the market for home buyers. It would represent the best news in years for home buyers."

If the Reserve Bank does cut interest rates by 100 basis points in February, it will mean a drop of nearly R1k per month in bond repayments per Rim bond held.

South Africa has undergone a two-year cycle of rising interest rates which have put homeowners under significant pressure. The repo rate, the rate at which the Reserve Bank lends money to commercial banks, peaked at 12% in August before finally being cut by 50 basis points in December. It is now 11,5%, with prime at 15%.

"The near halving of the petrol price and the sharp drop in inflation, except for food inflation, have given the bank all the reasons it needs to make meaningful inroads into the interest rate,"

"Other countries in developing markets, such as Australia and Thailand, have been aggressive in cutting interest rates, and right now it would be the best possible move for the local economy.

"It would also slow down the destructive cycle of bank repossessions and encourage more people to enter the property market,"

Weekly News - 19 January 2009

2009-01-19T07:01:00.000-08:00

After a week of being back at the office for most of you, I hope you are now relax and ready for 2009. At the Susan Deacon office we have added our portfolio to the SKILPAD & JUMP portals. This will ensure more exposure for your property through our extensive marketing network. This just shows why you must list your property with the best. We are always looking at ways to get more visibility for your property.

Keep reading over the next few weeks when we will be adding an extra FOOD & ENTERTAINING section to our newsletters, blogs and web page.

CONTENTS
1. NEW RELEASE PROPERTY
2. SAFEST SEASON SC ROADS
3. SUBSTITUTION ENTRIES FOR CYCLE TOUR
4. CADDY GOLF COMPETITION
5. BE PATIENT
6. APARTMENTS MAKE A GOOD PROPERTY INVESTMENT

NEW RELEASE PROPERTY
BLANCO

SECURE ESTATE

Brand new luxury up market 3 bedroom home. 3 Bathrooms, 2 lounges, dining room, BBQ area, kitchen, patio and 2 garages.

R1 450 000
ID3879

MOSSEL BAY

THE LOFTS APARTMENTS

2 X Two bedroom apartments as one package with spacious open plan living and kitchen area. An additional enclosed sun patio overlooking a manicure green garden. Secure direct access from garage and a communal swimming pool and guest parking.

R75 000 Cash back

R1 700 000
ID3868

MOSSEL BAY

BOLAND PARK VILLAS

Designed for relaxed entertainment in mind with a spacious open plan living area.

- Easy lock-up and go or residential units.

- Two bedroom units with full bathrooms.

- Modern decor, fittings and finishes, reflecting a simplicity for all`s appeal.

- Kitchen futures space for three major electrical appliances, with additional space for laundry appliances.

- Communal swimming pool and secure undercover parking with ample guest parking.

- Gated security development.

- 700m from Diaz main beach and entertainment facilities.

- 20 min drive from George Airport

- Central to all activities in the Garden Route & Klein Karoo

R75 000 Cash back
R1 150 000
ID3867

GREAT BRAK RIVER

WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT LAND

2 Stands river front with development potential for 4 units. Tranquil river front setting.

R3 240 000
ID3874

GEORGE - GLEN BARRIE

LARGE - SPACIOUS PRIVATE HOME

Situated in a quiet street, with private garden, swimming pool, covered BBQ area, 3 living areas, kitchen, laundry, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, study, pantry, 2 garages and a 1 bedroom flat with lounge and kitchen.

R2 050 000
ID3878

SAFEST SEASON SC ROADS

The coastal towns in the Southern Cape saw a huge influx of visitors during the festive season, but regardless experienced the safest season in years.

According to Kenny Africa, Manager of the George Traffic Department, they were determined to reduce the fatality rate during the festive season by ensuring visible policing. "We thank the road users for abiding by the rules of the road.

"The largest cause of single death is HIV/AIDS but if road users do not support our attempts to reduce the number of road accidents, we could be faced with this being the second highest cause. More than 14 000 people die on our roads annually; thousands are left permanently disabled and/or seriously injured."

SUBSTITUTION ENTRIES FOR CYCLE TOUR

Substitution entries for the Cape Argus Pick `n Pay Cycle Tour open on Wednesday 14 January. This means cyclists still wishing to enter this iconic race, have one last chance to do so.

This is good news for those cyclists who missed the entry cut-off.

The cost of a substitution entry is R270, irrespective of PPA or CSA membership.

Cyclists who have Internet access can make an online substitution application. Visit the online entry page on www.cycletour.co.za between 14 January and 23 February. Enter the details of the person who is entering as a substitute.

The substitution fee is paid online. A consent form is downloaded for the cyclist withdrawing, who must complete the form and fax it to 021 685 6648. The organisers will e-mail a confirmation letter to the substitution entrant within 72 hours of receiving the consent form.

CADDY GOLF COMPETITION
FANCOURT TOP OF THE LOG

By scoring a massive 123 points Fancourt A moved to the top of the log with 333 points in the third round of the Southern Cape Caddy Golf Competition held at Bramble Hill.

Plettenberg Bay is now second on a total of 316, followed by George (308), Knysna (267) and Fancourt B (256).

The Morsel Bay team withdrew after round one.

The top individual performers in the competition are Arthur Classens (Fancourt A), David de Villiers (George), Henzel Brand (Fancourt A), Gregory Petersen and Ralph Arries (Plattenberg Bay) and Tommy Lawa (George).
This Caddy League in the Southern Cape is unique and not only the first in the province, but also nationally.

The original aim was to give these players, who are an integral part of the golfing fraternity an opportunity to play golf at tournament level and display their skills.

BE PATIENT

Looking forward into 2009, there are some early signs of improvement is household sector fundamentals, with the household debt-to-disposable income ratio now declining and domestic inflation and interest rates now heading in the right direction. This is great news for the market, says FNB property strategist John Loos, as it is expected to translate into a declining household debt-service ratio (cost of debt servicing as a percentage of disposable income) through 2009. A series of interest rate cuts to 12 percent prime by the end of the year and declining inflation supporting real disposable income

APARTMENTS MAKE A GOOD PROPERTY INVESTMENT

Apartments in South Africa make an ideal property investment for South Africans living abroad, says Scott Picken, MD of International Property Solutions.
"Apartments are ideal in many ways for South Africans living overseas to get on the property ladder back home. For one, they are generally a lot cheaper than houses or townhouses, because the land cost is divided up by more properties. So from a price perspective, they are a lot more affordable, which is a major plus if you're living abroad and still travelling a lot, because you don't want a large mortgage that is going to chain you to your job until your visa runs out."
"They are also ideal because there is a lot less admin involved in owning and maintaining an apartment, compared to a house. A lot of tenants couldn't be bothered with maintaining a garden, for example. They live in your house for a year or two, and when they move out the garden is in a complete state - which makes getting the next tenant that much more difficult. The hassle of co-ordinating a garden service is not an issue with apartments, sometimes even if you're on the ground floor and have your own private garden, as the body corporate will take care of it for you. External areas like the walls and roofs, as well as communal areas like the swimming pool and clubhouse, are also maintained by the body corporate, which reduces the hassle, especially for buyers that live overseas." It's not just the fewer hassles that makes investing in sectional title apartments attractive, according to Picken. The numbers are also favourable from an investment perspective.
"If as an investor you want to dig deeper into housing trends, you will see there is an unprecedented demand for sectional title apartments in South Africa at the moment, which should continue for a long time. It's partly a global phenomenon of changing population demographics. People are staying single a lot longer, so they don't need or want large houses. Record divorce rates mean that there are more people coming back into single households than ever before. Economic growth is attracting people to the cities, particularly Johannesburg, and South Africa in general does not have a good track record of providing for the cheaper end of the housing market. The emerging black middle class, for example, is now starting to move out of the townships and into the suburbs, looking for properties to buy or rent."
"At the confluence of all these factors, you've got a surge in demand for more affordable properties * those in the R400,000 to R800,000 range * but especially for those that are easily commutable to the local business districts. I've often heard them referred to as GASH properties * Good Address, Small House."
This increase in demand is also pushing up rentals, according to Picken, which makes for a more attractive investment option.
"When I grew up, we lived in a large house with a massive garden, and I always thought that's the type of property I want to live in. I still want a house like that, but those properties sell for upwards of two million rand today. So that's what I'm working towards. At the moment, I'm taking advantage of the demographic changes in South Africa. I'm building my own portfolio with smaller, more affordable investments. One day I'll have my four bedroom house with a pool, tennis court and a huge garden!"

Weekly News - 12 January 2009

2009-01-12T07:46:00.000-08:00

Welcome, Bienvenue, Aloha mai, Dobrodoshle, Isibingelelo 2009

Hi everyone
Welcome back to the office and for those of you still on holiday I hope you are reading this outside in the sun with a cocktail in your hand. I am sure you've had many lovely festive moments this season, be that around your own dinner table, at your favourite restaurant, your holiday home.
We welcome you to a postive 2009 outlook with fuel prices going down and some interest cuts on the way.

While most of you had sometime to relax, your market leading estate agency was out on a BANG, working hard and made some new additions to our extended network for you our valued clients.

1. We joined the Unique Global Estates team. We are selected as the primary agent for Unique Global Estates in the Garden Route, South Africa. You can have a look at the profolio of homes of 1 Million Dollars and more.

www.uniqueglobalestates.com

Unique Global Estates is the world’s largest showcase for homes selling $1 million and above. It is for consumers, a place where their privacy and discerning tastes are never compromised, where only the best properties are displayed. It is for luxury agents a marketplace that understands the presentation of luxury homes and estates.

The founder, Donna Lee Laue, a former international model and successful real estate investor, has been profiled in Lore Magazine. Read about their visionary leader and you will understand the sensibility and sensitivity with which they operate.

They have built their website and online Luxury Destination Magazine, to make the selling of your luxury home a pleasant experience. Teaming up with such professionals is just one of the few services Susan Deacon Properties has on offer to their sellers, not to mention the selection we have on offer to our buyers.

2. We have also created our own Facebook group. So everyone on Facebook can join and be updated with discussions, new links, reports, etc.

SDP FACEBOOK GROUP

3. Last new topic from the Susan Deacon Properties desk is that for all you cellphone junkies, you can now surf the Susan Deacon Properties property profile on your cellphone.

Have a good week and keep reading our 2009 newsletters for some new and exciting additions to our services.
CONTENTS
1. DEVELOPMENT FEATURE
2. NEW RELEASE PROPERTY FOR 2009
3. DA LAUNCHES SUNNY LOGO
4. CHRISTMAS BABIES FOR CANGO RANCH
5. BOTANICAL TEA GARDEN IN FULL BLOOM
6. NEW SPONSOR FOR MTB SUMMER SERIES

DEVELOPMENT FEATURE

MOSSEL BAY - HARTENBOS
RIVIERA WHARF
BUY DIRECT FROM THE DEVELOPER - NO TRANSFER COST

CASH BACK FROM R350 000

15 Private luxury apartments

From R2 943 000 All costs included PLUS Guaranteed cash back from R350 000

A magnificent investment in a picturesque setting on the bank on the Hartenbos Lagoon. An unique lifestyle of luxury, privacy and leisure.

- Luxurious 3 bedroom apartments with 3 bathrooms
- Private Patio
- Modern kitchen design with Ellipse storage fittings and Ceaser Stone Tops.
- Spacious living and entertainment area, opens onto a private balcony/ patio, overlooking the lagoon.
- Highest quality finishes and fittings, from porcelain tiles to mirror closet doors in bedrooms.
- Secure development with security monitoring and indoor parking.
- Communal use of the Hotel's swimming pool, leisure bar and dining on site

All in walking distance from the beach.
ID3861

NEW RELEASE PROPERTY 2009

GLENTANA - SAOU

SAOU BEACH RESORT

SAOU Beach Resort. Only a few stand left in the popular beach resort in Glentana. From R795 000

ID3633

GREAT BRAK RIVER

OCEAN VIEWS

Sturdy face brick home on a large stand. Well designed - Unobstructed ocean views. 3 Bedrooms, 3 living areas, BBQ area, pantry, kitchen, laundry, study, swimming pool and 2 garages.

R1 840 000
ID3832

GEORGE - HEATHERLANDS

CHARMING AND SECLUDED

Charming home in a prime suburb. Large stand with a private garden area, swimming pool and patio. Renovated to perfection with quality finishes. 3 Large sunny living areas, kitchen, 3 bedrooms and a private 1 bedroom flat.
R2 850 000
ID3841

GLENTANA - OUTENIQUA BEACH

BARGAIN AT THE BEACH

You can create your dream home at the beach at a bargain price. Upmarket Glentana area, BBQ room, dining room, family room, kitchen, scullery, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, double garage, balcony and 180 degrees unobstructed ocean views.

R1 700 000
ID3852

WILDERNESS - RONDEVLEI

BIRD PARADISE

Nature and bird lover's paradise. 8 Hectares of land boardering nature conservation with lovely lake-views.
R3 790 000
ID3853

DA LAUNCHES SUNNY LOGO

DA Leader Helen Zille introduced the new party logo and slogan “One nation one future” during a meeting in Wilderness late in December at which the DA party explained its vision.

She vowed that her party would be working hard at changing the ANC’s “ Magstaat” hold, and the excessive power to muddle along squandering the country’s assets with its concomitant deepening of poverty.

The ANC’s “ Boetie Boetie” system is benefiting only the party’s elite clique.The DA would strive for establishing a respect for the rule of law and equal opportunities for all.

The new logo symbolises the new sun rising and shining upon the nation.

CHRISTMAS BABIES FOR CANGO RANCH

While Santa Claus was doing his rounds on Christmas morning, the stork stopped over at Cango Wildlife Ranch Tiger Breeding Centre and delivered three tiny white Bengal tiger cubs just after nine.

The new arrivals are extra special as they are the first of a new bloodline and as an added bonus one of the two cubs is extremely light coloured with almost no black stripes.

The cubs have all been given Hindi names.The almost entirely white female is named Fareeda which means unique. Her sister has been named Sitarah and the boy Shahir.

Rob Hall, Operations Director of Cango says in an effort to enhance the genetic variation in their white tiger breeding programme, Cango Wildlife Ranch went to great lengths to secure the father, Shiva, from Moscow. “We are thrilled that he settled in so quickly, siring these three jewels.

The mother, Geena, also boasts an unique bloodline, so these cubs make a meaningful contribution to the current white tiger population of about 500 around the world.

BOTANICAL TEA GARDEN IN FULL BLOOM

The Garden route botanical Garden’s new tea garden has been open for a month and has thus far generated a huge amount of positive feedback from the local community.
“This is due largely to the selfless dedication of a handful of volunteers and the fantastic support of the local community,” explains Dayne de Wet of the Garden Route Botanical Garden. “We would like to extend a friendly invite to young and old to come and visit the tea garden and relax in our tranquil setting. Everyone is welcome.

EXCITEMENT IS IN THE AIR

On 31 January and 01 February the Southern Cape Old Car Club will host the 13th George, the City for all Reasons, is the main sponsor. Several other sponsors such as Midas and the Protea Hotel group make this event a must see in George, the capital of the Garden Route.

The theme for the 2009 George Old Car Show is The Chronological Development of the Motor Car since 1900.

The first George Old Car Show was organized by the Southern Cape Old Car Club in 1997 on Paul Fick’s farm “Black-wood” near Victoria Bay where a total of 80 cars were on display. Public interest demanded that larger premises were needed the following year.

NEW SPONSOR FOR MTB SUMMER SERIES

The popular annual Hillbillies Summer Series mountain bake races will this year once again be held at the Saasveld campus of NMMU and this time the series comprises three races.

The first leg of the series will take place on Sunday 18 Januarie and there after on 1 and 15 February. This year the event will be sponsored Rocky Mountain Bicycles and Cycle & Sports Centre.

The culmination of the Hillbillies Summer series will take place on Sunday 15 February. This final leg is sure to be action packed with 12 trophies to be awarded and one lucky mountain biker will become the owner of a new Rocky Mountain bike and accessories to go with it, to be given away as a lucky draw prize supplied by Rocky Mountain Bicycles and Cycle & Sports Centre.

Weekly News - 22 December 2008

2008-12-22T06:47:00.000-08:00

The Susan Deacon Properties team wish you all the very best over the Christmas and New Year holidays.
We all look forward to working with you in what is going to be a prosperous 2009. We would like to take this opportunity to wish all our clients and readers a very happy and restful holiday period.

CONTENTS
1. PRIME DEVELOPMENT LAND FOR SALE
2. GREAT OPPORTUNITIES FOR SURFERS
3. GREAT THINGS TO DO IN THE AREA
4. OUTENIQUA NATURE RESERVE
5. EXPLORE THE OUTENIQUA HOP ROUTE
6. ALL THE RIGHT REASONS TO IMMIGRATE TO SOUTH AFRICA

DEVELOPMENT PROPERTY FEATURE

RIVER HILL ESTATE - DEVELOPMENT LAND R.O.D. APPROVED

Prime development land in the Garden Route, on the spectacular Wilderness Coast. R.O.D. approved for 16 luxury homes in a natural secure enviroment. Lake, ocean & river views.

R10 995 000
ID3669

GREAT OPPORTUNITIES FOR SURFERS

If you crave a wave, this is the place to be, because the areas surrounding George has the most bodaciously, excellent surf around.

Try spots like the well-known Vic Bay, Buffalo Bay Point and Mossel Bay Point, that can easily push out waves from 8-10 foot.

Experience it, and it will speak for itself. But beware, these waves are not for the infirm of faint of heart.

For beginners there are some really nice spots along the coast at Wilderness, as well as at Buffalo Bay beach.

Wilderness is also good when the swell is under four foot. The same goes for Swartvlei beach.

GREAT THINGS TO DO IN THE AREA

1. Take a trip on the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe to Mossel Bay
2. Play Mini-golf at Three Chameleons
3. Pick your own strawberries at Redberry Farm
4. Wax (or watch) the surf boards at Victoria Bay
5. Play one of the many short golf courses.
6. Spend a day on Herold’s Bay beach.
7. Visit the George Museum
8. Visit the cinema at the Garden Route Mall where all the latest movies can be viewed
9. Visit Skatelab at the top of York Street for fun and fancy footwork.
10. Watch the dolphins from the sidewalk at Herold’s Bay or Vicbay
11. Wander through the Garden Route Botanical Gardens
12. Visit one of the many great art galleries
13. Take a historical walk through George
14. Hit a bucket of balls at the local driving ranges
15. Visit Der Lederhandler shop that offers leather products of outstanding quality
16. George offers some of the best shopping spots in the Garden Route – you will find anything from furniture to jewellery in town or at the Garden Route Mall.
17. Paintball fun for the whole family
18. Visit one of our many nurseries and smell the roses
19. Hike one of the trails in the area
20. Paragliding in Wilderness and much much more.

OUTENIQUA NATURE RESERVE

Outeniqua Nature Reserve encompasses mountain passes and hiking trails where visitors are offered a tranquil break from the rigours of the daily life with a choice of activities from short rambles to more strenuous hiking routes and summit treks.

The name Outeniqua is derived from that of Khoisan tribe, the Attaqua, once resident there. It means “they who bear honey.”

Enguiries and Bookings
Tel: (044) 870 8323/5
Fax: (044) 870 7138
E mail: outenr@mweb.co.za
The Doring River hiking trail and the Tierkop hiking trail are currently closed, the latter due to flood damages.

EXPLORE THE OUTENIQUA HOP ROUTE

The popular Outeniqua Country Hop Route offers visitors an ideal opportunity to explore the beauty of George and its surrounding areas.

The route stretches from Herold on the Klein Karoo side of the majestic Outeniqua Mountains, right through to Geelhoutboom and the R102 (airport road). Along the way, explorers can enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery on the Garden Route, including the Outeniqua Pass and the historic Montagu Pass.

For more information about the Outeniqua Hop Route, fell free to visit the George Tourism Office in York Street for your detailed Hop Route Map.

Alternatively, visit www.outeniquacountryhop.co.za

ALL THE RIGHT REASONS TO IMMIGRATE TO SOUTH AFRICA

South Africa has been on the forefront of the so-called greener pastures of foreign nationals for many centuries.

Immigration has experienced a new awakening since 1994 when the new democratic dispensation was birthed. The recession which hit the United States of America, Britain and Europe, has led to many foreigners looking to South Africa for either temporary or permanent immigration.

There are three major reasons for the new awakening:
1. A weak South African rand;
2. The present property slump, resulting in a buyers market, especially the foreign buyer, and
3. Healthier economic climate as against USA, Britain and Europe Liza Stroebel, founder and director of Immigration Southern Cape, the first private immigration practice in the Garden Route (which opened its doors on 1 April 2003), reports that they have noticed a marked increase in enquiries.

Their top seller still remains the 4 Year Retired Permit, which gives the foreign swallow the opportunity to enter and leave South Africa without any limitations and have speedier access at the border posts as well as entering South Africa with a single airline ticket.

A recent amendment to this category results in a more user-friendly legislation.

To find out whether you qualify for the above or any other permit – such as business, work, volunteer, study or relative permits – please contact one of the IMSC consultants; Rian Pienaar, Hein Stroebel or Liza Stroebel on 044 871 5550 or visit their website at www.imsc.co.za.

An alliance partnership has also recently been signed with Teleo Immigration, Australia. Any South African who wishes to relocate to Australia, can contact Liza Stroebel at liza@imsc.co.za

Weekly News - 15 December 2008

2008-12-15T06:05:00.000-08:00

CONTENTS
1. DEVELOPMENT PROPERTY FEATURE
2. STEAM DREAMS FOR THE BOTANICAL GARDENS
3. ROCK PEDAL CLASSIC
4. HALL OF FAME GOLF DAY

DEVELOPMENT PROPERTY FEATURE

As the development spesialist in the Garden Route we would like to invite you to have a look at some of our prime developments we have on offer.

The dream of many is to live or have an investment in The Garden Route - Africa's holiday capital.

This dream is now a realty with options to own property in this exclusive area from as little as R220 000.

We have a selection of vacant land, golf estates, cluster- & townhouses, lifestyle estates, fractional-title property and apartments which you can choose from.

No matter what your budget or investment needs we can taylor a package so that you can also experience a true lifestyle in the Garden Route.

CONTACT US TO SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR AGENTS AND DISCUSS YOUR NEEDS.

STEAM DREAMS FOR THE BOTANICAL GARDENS
The ideal to offer miniature steam train rides for children in the Garden route Botanical Gardens is being seriously pursued by Joe Magill and Robbie Matthews, two avid steam enthusiasts who live in George.

With all the technical experience at their fingertips, they are the right people for carrying the project forward.

Joe owns a miniature passenger carrying train that currently offers train trips in Knysna, and Robbie is building his third locomotive, one that will be used at the gardens if and when permission is granted to do so.

Their plan was enthusiastically received by the management of the botanical gardens and will be presented for all the necessary further permission.

They intendsiting it on the northern side of the gardens(on the mountain side).

ROCK PEDAL CLASSIC

Mountainbikers in the Southern Cape, both resident and visiting, will have the opportunity to apply their skills and to experience the breathtaking beauty of mountains, rivers and open Karoo when the inaugural Rockpedal Classic takes place on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 December.

“An extreme event coupled with extreme flexibility,” is how race director and well-known local mountain biker, Hannes Neethling. Describes the exciting format.

Participants will choose one of the following four options:

1. The 160km two-day event, 80km on both days, “challenging” and not recommended for beginners.
2. The 100km two-day event, 50km on both days, non-technical.
3. A single day 80km, to be run on Sunday.
4. A single day 50km, to be run on Sunday.

On the Saturday racing will start at Denneoord Primary School at 07:00 and finish at Louvain Guest Farm north of the majestic Outeniquas.

All Sunday races will start from Louvain Guest Farm at 07:00.

Enquiries: Race director Hannes Neethling on 082 774 3474.

HALL OF FAME GOLF DAY

Although the establishment of a SA Golf Hall of Fame at Oubaai Golf Estate is still in the conceptual stage, golfers and enthusiasts will be getting the opportunity to either play or rub shoulders with some of the most famous players in the game.

The Day, which will be held on 23 December, will see, amongst others, idols like Retief Goosen, Sally Little and David Frost in action.

Other famous sportsmen like Victor Matfield will also be part of the spectacle.

The cost to play is R1 000 per person or R4 000/ 4 ball and this will also include dinner, entance to the auction, music by Seredipity.

Players will also receive great prizes, a goody bag, a T-shirt and cap and an analysing swing DVD.

There will only be 72 spots available for players.

Weekly News - 8 December 2008

2008-12-10T05:32:00.000-08:00

FESTIVE GREETINGS from the editor

FROM ALL OF US AT SUSAN DEACON PROPERTIES WE WISH YOU
A WONDERFUL FESTIVE SEASON
and a
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
As another year draws to a close we would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and business during the past year. Susan Deacon Properties wishes you, your staff and your families, enjoyable, prosperous and most importantly safe holidays.

We are known as the development specialists in the area. We have decided to launch a special DEVELOPMENT SECTION on our web page. Here we have a selection of our TOP developments on offer. We also have a number of developments not displayed here, so if you can't find what you are looking for, let us know and we will send you options matching your requirements.

CONTENTS
1. NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES
2. GEORGE'S 7TH SEVENS
3. MASSIVE COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
4. 2010: GEORGE AIRPORT HAS WHAT IT TAKES
5. GOLF SUMMIT FOR FANCOURT
6. ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME

NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES

MOSSEL BAY

BEACHFRONT HOME

Beach front home with unobstructed ocean views. It's all yours, nobody can spoil your view. 5 Bedrooms, 2 living areas, 2 kitchens, laundry, garage. This is a must have.

R3 240 000
ID573

CAMPHERSDRIFT

MILLIONAIRE'S AVENUE

Situated in MILLIONAIRE'S lane, private and a tranquil mountain setting. Have nature on your front door with unobstructed, breathtaking mountain views. Class and elegance combined to make this home spectacular with all it's features. Covered entertainment area leading onto the private swimming pool and garden. Sunny spacious open plan living areas, chef's kitchen, laundry, study, 2 garages and a low maintenance exterior.

R2 950 000
ID3811

KING GEORGE PARK

LOCK UP AND GO

Easy living 3 bedroom home with 2 living areas, BBQ room, kitchen and garages.

R995 000
ID3823

EDEN

SPECTACULAR VIEWS - 7 BEDROOMS

A home to suite FULL HOUSE - 7 Bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, lounge, dining room, family room, swimming pool and BBQ area, kitchen, laundry and 2 garages. Unobstructed mountain views and close to schools.

R2 995 000
ID3827

HEATHER PARK

GOOD POSITION

Sunny 3 bedroom home. Private BBQ and lapa area in the garden, lounge, dining room, BBQ room, 2 garages, kitchen and laundry.

R1 399 000
ID3828

SEDGEFIELD

BE SELECTED - HOLIDAY BEACH HOME WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL

Be one of a select few to own two exclusive beach cottages on a prime coastal plot with rights and approved plans to build four additional chalets along one of the most pristine coastlines in South Africa.

This exciting beach development is nestled midway between Knysna and Wilderness.

Two newly built beach chalets each have a spacious kitchen, downstairs bedroom with bathroom, dining room and outdoor braai. Upstairs is a comfortable master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, TV lounge and a balcony with magnificent ocean views.

Approved building plans with rights exist to erect four additional chalets to create a unique boutique self catering beach lodge. This is also a prime opportunity for a couple nearing retirement to invest in a small, easy to manage beach lodge.

You stay in the existing 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom chalet with walk-in garage and magnificent ocean views and you rent the other 5 chalets out.

R2 800 000
ID3829

KNYSNA

VIEWS OF THE LAGOON AND KNYSNA HEADS - BARGAIN BUY

This corner apartment is in very good condition. 2 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms en-suite with open plan layout and patio with fantastic lagoon and views of the Knysna Heads. PLUS a secure garage.

R870 000
ID3830

WILDERNESS

KAAIMANS RIVERFRONT SMALLHOLDING

10 Hectare Kaaimans River front smallholding. This is amazing, have the river on your front door. This can be your private river estate if you HURRY!!!

R2 950 000
ID3831

GEORGE’S SEVENTH SEVENS

George will indeed host the IRB World Sevens Tournament at least until 2010. Amidst the excitement of Sevens courtesy vehicles and international players crisscrossing over town since Sunday, the announcement that contracts are ready to be signed to keep this annual sporting highlight in George, was met with joyful cheers at the official opening function at Duttons Cove on Tuesday.

MASSIVE COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
END OF CBD AS WE KNOW IT

A proposal for a commercial deve¬lopment bigger than the CBD in its to¬tality was received by the George Municipality. Business owners fear that it could have a de¬vastating impact on the town centre.

The 240 000 m2 development adja¬cent to Blue Moun¬tain Village is being proposed by three developers, Garden Route Mall Investments, Cumulus Projects and Rainbow Place Properties. They signed an agreement of co-operation and registered a single company, Laritza Investments under whose name the project will be exe¬cuted.

According to an independent town planner, Kobus Munro of Setplan, the applicant failed to do an environ¬mental impact as¬sessment, which is required for a de¬velopment of this size. "We find it strange," said Munro
.
"Such a development can mean the end of the CBD as we know it. There are not nearly enough people to keep both the town centre and another commercial area alive. The office park being proposed is bigger than the Garden Rout Mall. It will for certain empty the office space in town"

2010: GEORGE AIRPORT HAS WHAT IT TAKES

A private company called Match was in George recently to Asses the ability and equipment of the George airport to handle the rise in visitor numbers during the Soccer 2010 tournament.

Match is a company that assembles packages for soccer tourists, which in¬clude the flight, stay and tickets to the soccer matches.

The officials of Match was very impressed with George Airport and com¬mented that it was better than they had expected. They were also impressed with the beauty of the area and the high standard of the accommodation.

Brenda Moses, airport manager of the George airport said: "I feel very excited and optimistic that we will fit the stan¬dards that Match requires".

During the 2010 Soccer World Cup, George Airport will be required to pro¬cess up to 4000 visitors.

Match's second visit to the area will be on 9 December 2008.

GOLF SUMMIT FOR FANCOURT

The current global economic turmoil and its effects on the South African and world golf¬ing industry will be the main focus of the fourth annual South African Golf Summit taking place at Fancourt early next year.

Fancourt CEO Ingrid Diesel said the golf industry was un¬deniably affected by the un¬stable financial situation world¬wide and that the local industry had a responsibility to assess the matter thoroughly and act as a united and informed indus¬try.
"There is no better place than the annual SA Golf Summit to analyse the situation from all sides and address the issues appropriately. We invite all stakeholders to attend this very important summit to ensure the future sustainability of this industry," said Diesel.

Reservations for the summit can be made by calling reservations on 044 804 0020 or sending an email to sagolfsummit@fancourt.co.za

The summit will be held bet¬ween 29 March and 1 April 2009.

ADD HOME VALUE WITH SMALL CHANGES

Be clever, this year use your bonus to make an investment in your home by adding value to your existing home.
"A few simple changes, upgrades or additions to a home can make all the difference and you don't need to break the budget to improve the appearance and/or function of certain rooms. This is particularly true for the kitchen and the bathroom that are considered to be the most popular rooms for improvements and remodelling," says Kate van Niekerk, marketing manager for Tile Africa.
She says an inexpensive measure is rather to add design features to the existing wall or floor tiles. For example, kitchen countertops may be too expensive to replace, so opt for a decoratively tiled backsplash area to change the look. Alternatively, add a contrasting colour tile or a border of decorative mosaic tiles to a space for a more creative or colourful impression.
A wonderful and straightforward way of adding a touch of style to a tired area is to introduce an attractive piece of furniture such as a new basin, set of taps, wall cabinet or changing the drawer pulls. Simply change the mirror, vanity, toilet seat or wall cabinet to a bathroom, or change the taps and sinks in the kitchen to give it a newer, fresher look.

If the bath or shower looks a bit dingy, consider just regrouting the tiles and replacing any chipped tiles. Fixtures for bathrooms and kitchens come in a variety of styles depending on your personal taste and allow for a fresh look without the expense and hassle of redoing the whole room.
Van Niekerk says going for an upgrade or a change does not always mean you have to move houses or "break the bank" – but rather look at your current space and how effective small changes can be made with your Christmas bonus.

Weekly News - 1 December 2008

2008-12-01T06:49:00.000-08:00

FESTIVE GREETINGS from the editor

It is that time of the year again. Everyone in a festive mood and rushing to finish of deadlines so that they can be part of the Christmas Holiday Spirit. We would just like to wish you a most enjoyable and safe festive season.

Seeing that Christmas is just around the corner we have made a list to start of your shopping. Go to our shopping list feature with gift ideas that will make life much easier in 2009.

Visit our newly launched Susan Deacon Properties Blog for the latest news buzz and also some comments on our shopping list feature.

In the property business you make money when you buy property, not when you sell it - and we believe the next few months will be a "summer of dreams", when the best buying opportunities present themselves and set up the shrewd property investors to make the most money when the market recovers.
It may be contra-intuitive to buy now, when the property market is in a downturn, but property prices are predicted to rise by 50 to 60 percent over the next three years and those who delay now will make relatively smaller returns on their property investments.
CONTENTS
1. NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES
2. CHRISTMAS SHOPPING LIST
3. A POSITIVE NUMBER
4. CROCODILE FARM TO BE TURNED INTO TOURIST CENTRE
5. GEORGE’S 200TH CELEBRATION
6. ENTRIES FLOW IN FOR SPORTS FESTIVAL

NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES

GEORGE

GENTLEMANS ESTATE WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL

This prime property is marketed as a Gentleman's Estate which can be developed in an exclusive Nature Reserve overlooking two world class Golf Courses, river frontage, sea and mountain views. Natural game such as "Bushbuck" is already seen on the property. With an excellent location only 6 km out of George and 15 km from the George Airport this is an Investor's dream.

OPTIONS
The 32 hectares are fully developable and only about 5 hectares are currently covered with, coastal forest and will form part of open spaces within the development. The location of this property is within the Spatial Development Framework, Urban Structure of George. It has been identified to be within the medium urban edge. Herewith a suggestion of some development options.

• Lifestyle Residential Estate with clubhouse, spa etc.
• Retirement village with Medical Clinic and/or frail care facility
• Resort with self catering chalets
• Hotel complex with Restaurant, Conference and Entertainment centre
• Corporate lodges
• Exclusive high-end rural living with 2 units per hectare

R19 500 000
ID3809

LOERIE PARK

THE PERFECT HOME

Prime area & a home for the family. Solid and neat. 5 Bedrooms, 3 living areas, 3 garages, kitchen, laundry, patio, BBQ area .......

R2 950 000
ID291

HEATHER PARK

ORIGINAL AND SPACIOUS

Original homestead with gleaming wooden floors situated on a 2 700 sqm stand in a picturesque garden. Lovely swimming pool and patio area ideal for outdoor entertaining. Spacious sunny bedrooms, 3 living areas and indoor BBQ, kitchen, laundry, study, store room, tool room and 2 carports.

R2 595 000
ID3807

HARTENBOS

LOW MAINTENANCE WITH SEA VIEWS

Comfortable face-brick home with 3 sunny living areas, open plan solid Oak kitchen, granite tops, sunny bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 garages, 2 carports, tool room, patio, pantry, sparkling pool, 2 room sauna and sea views as a bonus.

R2 495 000
ID3808

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING LIST
* With all the extra foot traffic in your home during the holiday break, a robotic vacuum cleaner may be a boon. There are several models available, but all work on the principle that you can switch in on and leave it to its own devices to clean floors and carpets while you soak up the sun or do a spot of gardening. The models are rechargeable and have super sensitive detection systems to prevent them from bumping into walls or furniture.
* Robotic lawnmowers essentially do the same for your lawn. Solar powered models by Husqvarna are available locally and once "trained" to stay away from flowerbeds, trees and swimming pools will cut the grass without supervision. The clever devices also sense when it is time to return to docking stations to be recharged and they run quietly compared to more conventional petrol or electrical mowers.
* If you still want to get into shape while your gizmos are mowing lawns and cleaning floors, you may want to take a look at the latest home gym equipment. Top of the range treadmills now incorporate such luxuries such an iPod dock, touchscreen, television, radio, and software capable of automatically determining a workout regimen - but at a price. Cheaper models without all the bells and whistles will still help you to stick to those New Year's resolutions and you can always turn up the volume on your trusty old sound system.
* If blood, sweat and tears are not your idea of fun, you may want to consider installing a home spa. Apart from hours of relaxation, this addition will also enhance the value of your home. Spa's range from the simply functional to state-of the-art inventions with silent air induction systems, adjustable directional jets, underwater mood lighting - and even flat screen TV's complete with DVD and CD players, surround sound and, for good measure, a floating remote control.
* And finally, improved home security can bestow the gift of peace of mind. Wireless systems are quick and easy to install and can enhance existing security measures. Some models are ideal for perimeter security and activate alarms, flashing lights or floodlights when an intruder breaches your boundaries.

A POSITIVE NUMBER
The increase in South Africa's consumer price index excluding mortgage rate...
The increase in South Africa's consumer price index excluding mortgage rate changes (CPIX) for metro and other areas, which is used by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) for its inflation target, was up 12.4 percent year-on-year in October from 13.0 percent year-on-year in September, Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) said on Wednesday.

CROCODILE FARM TO BE TURNED INTO TOURIST CENTRE

Plans for turning the 4,7ha former crocodile farm into tourism spot with an arts and crafts centre are being gated at present.

George Town council are eager to put the land to use for a multitude of uses including a backpackers hostel, bus terminus for in¬ter-city operators and a residenti-al development.

GEORGE’S 200TH CELEBRATION

The 200th birthday of George in 2011 is worthy of a festival that will last a whole year.

This was the general opinion at a meeting convened by the George Municipality on Mon¬day night to set the ball rolling for planning memorable cele¬brations.

ENTRIES FLOW IN FOR SPORT FESTIVAL

Andre van Rooyen, presi¬dent of the Fish Eagles Aquatics, reported that they have already received a large number of entries for the popular annual Heather¬park Superspar Sport Festi¬val at Island Lake.

He is especially excited about the Springbok swim¬mer and sister of Ryk Neethling, Jean-Marie Neethling, who will be in action this year.

The Festival will be held on 7 December and is host¬ed by Fish Eagles Aquatics, the biggest club in the Southern Cape.

Entry forms are also avail¬able at all sport shops or by contacting André (083 443 0122) or Annetjie (044 871 3445) or visit their website on www.swdaquatics.co.za

Weekly News - 24 November 2008

2008-11-25T23:18:00.000-08:00

CONTENTS

1. NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES
2. THE BIG CUT IS COMING
3. WORLD AIDS DAY
4. SA CELEBRATES DECADE OF WORLD SEVENS
5. ITALY COMES TO GEORGE
6. BOPLAAS PORT OF THE YEAR
7. HAPPY CREATURES
8. BIKERS INVITED TO JOIN FUN RUN
9. LOCAL ARTISTS, EGOLI STARS ON THE STAGE
10. LEKKER LOCAL LIGHTS FEST
11. GARY PLAYER INTERNATIONAL
12. INFLATION RATES TO FALL
13. US MARKET MAY BE TURNING AROUND

NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES

HEATHERLANDS

A UNIQUE LIFESTYLE INVESTMENT

This stylish double storey, immaculate open plan home has 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, large modern kitchen with laundry, indoor and outdoor BBQ facilities, covered patio leading onto sparkling pool area, study and 2 garages.

R2 595 000
ID2683

BLANCO

WITH THE OPTION OF BUYING A SECOND STAND

This is worth it. This home is in a mint condition and you have an option of buying a second stand at R279 000. Easy living 3 bedroom home with dining room, BBQ room, lounge, kitchen, laundry and 2 garages.

R1 250 000
ID3789

DENNEOORD

BRAND NEW BARGAIN BUY

Just move into this newly built home with granite finished kitchen. Value for money for under a million. 3 Bedrooms, open plan living area, bbq area, kitchen, laundry, garage, carport and situated in a security complex.

R920 000
ID3790

WILDERNESS

WILDERNESS VACANT STANDS

Prime stands in the tranquil village of the Wilderness with sea views from R756 000.

This is your oppertunity to have your dream holiday home built.
ID3974

FACING THE OCEAN

Ideal lock-up and go holiday flat in a security village. Living area, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, balcony, carport and built-in BBQ area.

R560 000
ID3796

MOSSEL BAY

GARDEN ROUTE COASTAL STANDS

Coastal stands from R756 000. Now is your opportunity to invest in the Garden Route.

ID3679

THE BIG CUT IS COMING
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) is likely to begin lowering interest rates much earlier than previously expected and the urgency for a cut already at the next Monetary Policy Committee meeting on 11 December is building, Rian le Roux, chief economist at Old Mutual Investment Group (SA) (Omigsa), said on Thursday.
Le Roux said in a statement that the SARB is likely to begin lowering interest rates in February 2009, rather than during the second quarter as expected before, and there is even a strong chance (nearly 50 percent) of a 50bp rate cut in December.

The chance of earlier rate cuts has increased substantially following two crucial economic developments - the notably sharper-than-expected weakening of the real economy and a further improvement in the inflation outlook, he says.

WORLD AIDS DAY 1 DECEMBER

Every year George Municipality organizes something special for World Aids Day - this year is no different.

A six hour music and dance marathon is on the cards for Monday 1 December, starting at 12:00 at Unity Park in York Street with a program that will keep every body moving until 18:00.

TEA GARDEN TO BE OPEN SOON

The much anticipated Moms and Tots Fairy Tea Garden will have its official opening in the Garden Route Botanical Gardens next Monday, 24 November.

The Moms and Tots initiative hopes to generate much needed funds for the Gardens. Since its conception, many hours of planning and hard work have gone into creating a truly lovely and secure environment where young ones can play and parents can relax and enjoy the tranquil setting.

SA CELEBRATES DECADE OF WORLD SEVENS

The hugely popular Emirates Airline SA Sevens tournament celebrates its tenth anniversary this year and fittingly, it will again be George which will host the world's elite Sevens players on 5 and 6 December.

The 2008 event also marks the sixth consecutive year that our beautiful city will be home to the African leg of the IRB Sevens World Series tournament, traditionally the second event on the calendar of the international series.

Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the theme of the 2008 tournament is a celebration of ten years of International Sevens Rugby in South Africa, thus ce¬lebrating SA Rugby's involvement with the exciting series since the concept started in 1998.

I AM LIVING
ITALY COMES TO GEORGE

Are you building or renovating?

Described as the most beautiful and unusual shop in the country, I Am Living is situated next to the traffic circle at the top end of York street.

"A visit is truly a treat for any shopper as we have brought the best of Italy to the heart of the Garden Route," explains co-owner, Marinda da Silva. "Tantalising all five senses, this concept lifestyle store transport you directly to the various shopping hubs in Italy as you step in, and offers you Italian kitchens, sanitary ware and taps, pots and pans and many other accessories for kitchens and bathrooms.

BO-PLAAS JUDGED AS THE PORT OF THE YEAR

Boplaas Wine Cellar in Calitzdorp Cape Tawny Port was recently judge as the Port of the year by South African Airways at a prestigious function in Stellenbosch.

The port is made from Tinta Barocca and aged in Portuguese barrels for ten years.

HAPPY CREATURES
FOR ALL YOUR PETS’ NEEDS

Open since November 2007. Happy Creatures Vetshop is a South African Veterinary Association accredited vetshop co-owner by Dr. Frans de Graaff of Hartenbos and Dr Daleen Erasmus of the Outeniqua Animal Clinic in George.

Conveniently situated in the Garden Route Mall (next to Pick n Pay), Happy Creatures caters for the needs of pets and pet owners alike in the Garden Route region and surrounding.

BIKERS INVITED TO JOIN FUN RUN

The Southern Cape Toy Run will be taking place on Sunday, 30 November. All motorbike owners with road-worthy bikes capable of cruising on the N2 highway are invited to attend this largest mass motorbike ride of the year. The ride leaves from the Game shopping centre (bottom of York Street) in George at 11:30, but riders must be there before 11:15 in order to hear the final ride briefing.

The entrance fee consists of a toy or cash donation and the aim of the run is to gather toys for underprivileged kids of our community. Any toy will be appreciated. The donations will be collected at the end venue at MBYBC at the harbour in Mossel Bay.

For more details on the day an to check out routes, visit http://www.whalerally.co.za?/toyrun.htm.

LOCAL ARTISTS, EGOLI STARS ON THE STAGE

The popular BRA¬VO! Festival is back at the Garden Route Casino from 18 - 22 December where you can see your favourite artists and perform¬ers take to the stage every evening.

The show kicks off on Thursday 18 De¬cember with Kurt Darren, Robbie Wessels and Broers taking centre stage with Mandi du Plooy (Lara from EGOLI).

Your feet will be stomping the night away on Friday 19 December when Eden, Shine 4 (in their final perfor¬mance as a group), Broers and On Que together with Dar¬ryl Desmarais (Stephen from Egoli) will be performing.

Chris Chameleon, Amanda Stry¬dom join Broers and Lindie van Eeden Karin from EGOLI) on stage on Saturday 20 De¬cember.

Don't miss Sunday ¬21 December's Christmas Concert with Drie van die Bestes, Rina Hugo, Andriette Norman, Wynand & Chereé and Hannes van Wyk (Krynauw from EGOLI).
Bookings
Visit www.your¬travelcompan¬ion.co.zafor bookings, accommodation and more information.

LEKKER LOCAL LIGHTS FEST

The annual George Lights Festival will once again be held in Unity Park on Sa¬turday, 29 November. Fes¬tivities will kick off at 14:00 with flea market stalls and a children's pro¬gram as well as entertainment right from the word go.

GARY PLAYER INTERNATIONAL
GOOSEN IN ACTION

Retief Goosen has included the Gary Player Invitational, presented by Coca-Cola, at Fancourt as one of only two tournaments he will play in South-Africa this summer and he joins an illustrious field of present and past champions in this pro-celebrity charity tournament.

The double US Open champion has added his name to a field which at this early stage has confirmed entries from various Sun¬shine Tour, LPGA Tour and Champions Tour stars as well as a mix of local and International celebrities.

Rodger Davis, a seven-time winner on the European Tour who finished second in the 1987 Open Championship and was ranked within the top ten on the world rankings
during his career, joins Ronan Rafferty and John Bland amongst the senior campaign¬
at The Links at Fancourt from 27-30 November 2008.

INFLATION RATES TO FALL
Inflation is likely to fall - according to the director general of the National Treasury, Lesetja Kganyago, and as a result, interest rates will fall over time.
Making a presentation to MPs on Parliament's finance committee on Tuesday, the director general said that CPIX has peaked and has already begun to decline. He warned them however that second-round effects and the price of electricity are raising core inflation.

US MARKET MAY BE TURNING AROUND
In a development that bodes well for the South African real estate market, it seems that the battered home sales ship inthe US is - slowly - starting to turn around.
That's the word from Dr Willie Marais, national president of the Institute of Estate Agents (IEASA), who notes that according to the latest figures released by the authoritative National Association of Realtors (NAR), the sales of existing or pre-owned homes in the US rose by 5,5 percent in September, to their highest level in 13 months.

Weekly News - 17 November 2008

2008-11-18T04:39:00.000-08:00

CONTENTS
1. NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES
2. A RATE CHANGE
3. PRICE TO RISE BY 60% IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS
4. FOUR RATE CUTS EXPECTED IN 2009
5. SA'S FUTURE BRIGHTER THAN EVER
6. UPMARKET RESIDENTIAL SUBURB
7. GARDEN ROUTE DAM
8. NO ALTERNATIVE BUT TO DEVELOP DAM
9. UNPLUGGED 62 MUSIC FESTIVAL
10. SUMMER FESTIVAL AT MILKWOOD
11. LAKE FESTIVAL

NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES

HEROLDS BAY

THE HEROLDS BAY LUXURY APARTMENTS

Access to a beach is undoubtedly the most attractive reason to purchase a coastal property. The romance of the idea of enjoying long sun-filled breaks with your family and friends is appealing to us all. The Garden Route has experienced unprecedented growth over the last few years with an ever increasing demand for prime seaside properties. This has led to a huge increase in the values of front row properties. The Heroldsbay development offers a total of 63 units - 10 Bachelor, 17 One Bedroom, 32 Two bedrooms, 4 Three bedroom.

Hotel suites from R 899000
1 Bedroom from R 1 499 000
2 Bedroom units from R 1 999 000
3 Bedroom units from R 3 399 000

Facilities Include:

- Heated swimming pool
- Cocktail Bar
- Family restaurant
- Undercover basement parking
- Laundry
- Apartment cleaning and rental service

ID3645

FANCOURT GARDENS

TRANQUIL AREA

Double volume home on a large stand. Modern finishes, walled with controlled access. 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lounge, dining room, kitchen, laundry, 2 garages and a lovely swimming pool area.

R1 950 000
ID3784

A RATE CHANGE

The central bank's inflation forecasts may soon come to reflect lower growth and inflation risks, and this may prompt it to change its mind enough to lower interest rates in December, which is earlier than generally expected or discounted.
This is the view of chief economist from FNB, Dr Cees Bruggemans, who points out that South Africa's economy won't remain immune.

PRICE TO RISE BY 60% IN NEXT 5 YEARS

South African houses prices will be 60% more expensive in the next five years, a senior official at banking group Absa said on Tuesday.

"In five years' time property is expected to be about 60% more expensive than today, taking into account annual growth of 10% over this period," said Gavin Opperman, managing executive of Absa Home Loans.

As with other industry players, he noted that prices would hit the bottom this year, with price growth projected in single digits.

"This year will most probably be the year to buy property, also as an investment," he said.

John Loos, a property strategist at FNB, expects prices to slow to 8,1% this year from 13.9% last year before picking up slightly to 10,6% in 2009 and 18,9% in 2010. – I-Net Bridge

FOUR RATE CUTS EXPECTED IN 2009

Johannesburg - Interest rates should ease in April next year, followed by three consecutive cuts of 50 basis points each, Standard Bank economist Danelee van Dyk said on Wednesday following the release of inflation figures.
Earlier Statistics SA said that CPIX inflation, which excludes mortgage costs, rose to a record 13% in July from 11.6% in June year-on-year.
Van Dyk said monetary policy decisions were expected to be based on an improved 18-month outlook, "despite the deterioration in the short term inflation profile"

SA'S FUTURE BRIGHTER THAN EVER

It's now more than ever possi¬ble for the DA to become Governing Party, says DA Leader Helen Zille at George breakfast.

"The future of democracy has nev¬er looked as good as it is at the moment, with the ANC's dis-integration, the for¬mation of a new party, and the move away from power abuse to the reali-sation that there is a freedom of choice. The DA is launch¬ing itself on the road towards becoming the ruling party, six years from now in 2014," said DA leader, Helen Zille bristling with opti¬mism at a breakfast held at the George Civic Centre on the eve of the party's re-launch. She said that all the surveys and research re¬vealed that the party was winning ground rapidly.

It was a cheerfully dressed Mrs Zille that switched effort¬lessly from Afri¬kaans to English to Xhosa, speaking eloquently about the brightness of South Africa's fu¬ture. "A window of opportunities have opened up with the current political scenario.

Closed Clique
"When President Thabo Mbeki was thrown out of the ANC, it became clear that his fol¬lowers would have to create a new fu¬ture for themselves as they were effec¬tively shut out from the party.

"The speed with which the new par¬ty, the Congress of the People (COP) was formed, even took me by sur¬prise."

Paradigm Shift
"We need to do a mind shift, from be¬ing the opposition party to the ruling Party.”

Zille explained that if every DA supporter went to vote, it would im¬prove the results to such an extent that the DA would take the Western Cape Province and pos¬sibly even the Northern Province next year.

It would become clear on 10 Decem¬ber how strong the breakaway party, COP is in the 22 by¬ elections in the Western Cape, where a number of ANC members left the party to join the dissidents.

Power sharing
The DA would definitely be look¬ing at coalition sharing with COP if the leaders are strong and princi¬pled. Cape Town is a coalition govern¬ment with 42 per¬cent of the vote - but it makes for com¬plicated ruling. "`n Regstaat is beter as 'n magstaat en `n
geslote party waar net `n kliek gunste en gawes uitdeel."

Intimidation is rife
In reply to a ques¬tion from a Xhosa DA supporter, No¬mamsi Dlepu, Zille said she had special appreciation for supporters who risked their lives to vote DA. After the meeting, Dlepu said the windows of her home in Lawaai¬kamp had been stoned and all her possessions thrash¬ed last year. She however remained a stalwart admirer of Zille whom she has known in Cape Town already.

Vote rigging
In reply to concern voiced about vote rigging, Zille said the DA would be having in depth talks with the IEC about increasing the power of monitors, especially at the point where voters identify themselves and have their names crossed Doff the voters role. She was aware of a lot of malpractices with bar coded identity documents being handed out at ran¬dom. The party would be taking steps to prevent fraudulent practices from taking place.

Bring the Kids Home
To laughter, she said that South Africa is probably the only democracy in the world where prisoners can vote, but citizens living abroad could not. This burning issue would be taken up.

She advised a woman in the au¬dience, whose chil¬dren have regis¬tered, but who will be working abroad, "... if all else fails, buy them a ticket to come home and vote. Preferably a one-way ticket. It is a sad state of affairs that so many of our children are work¬ing abroad. We are going to be working hard to ensure that this country is one with a future where they will want to live."

UPMARKET RESIDENTIAL SUBURB

The waterfront flats at the planned Garden Route development will at R750 000 upwards - in line with present market values. The price of the erven will be determined by the developer who may opt to build homes and offer a full package.

The higher density sites are located well away from the existing density development along Stander Street and Meyer Street.

Single residential erven with sim¬ilar sizes are in fact proposed on the land abutting these streets, while wide open areas separate the higher density residential pockets from the proposed single residential erven.

This new proposed suburb and waterfront area will be accessible through three entrances, one from Meyer Street and two from Saasveld. This is being planned to alleviate any traffic through the nearby suburbs of Loerie Park and Eden.

GARDEN ROUTE DAM
TO BE TURNED INTO MAJOR ATTRACTION

The city planners involved in the pro¬ posed development of the Garden Route dam foresee that the public will stay in¬volved in this de¬velopment project every step of the way. To ensure that the recreational po¬tential is optimized; a specialist is to be appointed to plan the location of amenities in such a way, that it will not only enhance the beauty of the dam area, but encourage Georgians to enjoy its daily use.

Only 50 hectare of the 120 hectare of municipal owned land will be devel¬oped - the rest will be rehabilitated from the degraded commercial pine plantation land it currently is to return it back to its former beauty. A small lock-up facility for canoeists and a venue for holding prize giving func¬tions are just some of the ideas that were put forward by the public and will be incorporated in the planning.

Major tourist destination

"The proposed wa¬terfront develop¬ment with its restau¬rants and tourist¬-orientated facilities and the hotel should not be seen as sep¬arate entities.

These facilities are complimentary to each other and the success of the one determines the suc¬cess of the other," says senior city planner, Stiaan Carstens in his com¬ment on the final EIA. "By scaling it down to a `nature orientated' facility, both will struggle to survive due to the lack of economy of scale. This is the reason why the higher density for¬mats of residential developments are proposed in close proximity of the waterfront, as num¬bers are necessary to make it viable and successful."

NO ALTERNATIVE BUT TO DEVELOP DAM

No valiable alternatives than to devel¬op the area as a wa¬terfront plus a hotel and a residential area could be found. This is the opinion of the city planning team involved in in¬vestigating the var¬ious usages for the 120 hectare of land lying to the South of the Garden Route dam.

In an executive summary of the fi¬nal Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), George Mu-nicipality's chief city planner, Stiaan Carstens said none of the alternatives were considered vi¬able. Not the idea of creating a 120 hectare park only, nor just creating a waterfront on its own without a res¬idential area. "The municipality cannot justify diverting sizable shares of re-sources and funding for the upkeep of such a park."

UNPLUGGED 62 MUSIC FESTIVAL

The Joubert-Tradauw Unplugged62 (this year on Saturday, 29 November) is an annual unplugged music event held in the beautiful Tradouw Valley at the Joubert¬Tradauw Private Cellar. The event features the finest in South African unplugged music.

Artists performing
The artists performing at the Un¬plugged62 music event on Saturday, 29 November, are James Stewart, Jan Blohm, Valiant Swart, Kent O'Shea and Louise Leggatt (Happy FourTwenty & Rubber Soul), Andrew Hoare and Heather Mac and The Brills.
The fun kicks off at 15:00, with the last performance at 23:00.

Tickets
Tickets, at R275 per person, are available online. Be sure to book at
www.un¬plugged62.co.za

SUMMER FEST AT MILKWOOD

It's summer, a season of festivity and in light of this, DJs and performance artists are descending on Wilderness for the Elec¬tro Sunsets Outdoor Music Festival being held at Milkwood Village on Saturday, 29 November.

For more information, email electrosun¬sets@yahoo.com.

LAKE FESTIVAL

The annual Heatherpark Super Spar Is¬land Lake Festival will this year take place on 7 December.

There will be a Triathlon of 400 m swim, 15 km cycle and 4 km run. The race will start at 07:30 and is organised for 16 years and older athletes.

For more details and entry forms visit www.swdaquatics.sportza.co.zaor phone André at 083-443 0122.

Weekly News - 10 November 2008

2008-11-12T04:39:00.001-08:00

CONTENTS
1. NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES
2. INTEREST RATE CUTS
3. 2010 WORLD CUP BID
4. TARGETING TOP SOCCER TEAMS
5. HEROLDS BAY FESTIVAL - 2008
6. WHEN GOD SPEAKS
7. ENGINEERING AWARDS CITY IS AMONGST THE BEST
8. SA VIEWERS GIVEN 3 YEARS DIGITAL TV MIGRATION
9. FANCOURT OFFERS BEST OF EVERYTHING

NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES

HERSHAM

SPACIOUS

A comfortable low maintenance clinker home, 500m from the Indian Ocean with a beautiful garden patio and balcony. 2 Living areas, dining room, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, open plan kitchen with thermofan oven and hallogen hob, double garages with office built above and Lapa to die for!

R2 000 000
ID3759

MOSSEL BAY

PANSY COVE - DIAZ BEACH

Bachelor apartment with under-floor heating, swimming and sitauted in a security complex.

R949 000
ID3776

MOSSEL BAY

LUXURY APARTMENT BLOCK - MOSSEL BAY BEACH FRONT

Live the life you'd love to live at Pansy Cove, on the beachfront at Mossel Bay's Dias Beach. Whether it's your year-round home or your holiday home-away-from-home, there is so much for you to enjoy. Watch the whales from your own private patio, sip sundowners as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, fish, sail, swim or simply relax and savour the best that life has to offer.

- Luxurious 1,2,3 & 4 bedroom apartments and penthouses
- Spectacular sea and mountain views
- Granite and steel finishes
- State-of-the-art security in secure complex
- Private undercover parking
- Hotel, restaurants and shops nearby
- Private swimming pool

From R910 000
ID3774

ROOI RIVER RIFF

OPEN AND SPACIOUS

Open spacious sunny living areas, open plan kitchen, 3 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, covered BBQ/ patio area and 2 garages.

R1 300 000
ID3757

KINGSWOOD

GOLF ESTATE LUXURY

Unique security golf estate development. Your own exclusive luxury home in this prime Golf Estate. Situated in the most secretive position with magical views. 4 Bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 living areas, BBQ room, patio, swimming pool, dressing room, kitchen, laundry and 2 garages.

R2 950 000
ID3770
GEORGE - SOUTH

CLOSE TO SCHOOLS

3 Bedroom, low maintenance home close to schools and town. Garage, lounge, dining room and kitchen.

R875 000
ID3749

INTEREST RATE CUTS

Events have marched on to a point where the first of a series of SARB rate cuts are coming into view, timing as always the prerogative of the SARB.
But do paint in a very high probability for December 2008 and a near certainty for February 2009 for the first cut.
In contrast, the consensus keeps looking well into 2009 for that first rate cut. I have maintained for some time that events may be moving much too fast for that. Expect rate cutting sooner rather than later.

2010 WORLD CUP BID
GEORGE MAYOR GIVES HIS FULL SUPPORT

George is the best suited town to host a 2010 World Cup soccer team at a base camp. It has the necessary in¬frastructure, airport, hotels and accom¬modation. Very lit¬tle will be required to get Outeniqua Stadium upgraded to get it in line with Fifa requirements. So said Mayor of George, Flip de Swardt during a re¬cent interview.

New parking areas are being created in readiness for the in¬ternational Sevens Rugby Tournament in December. Pavi¬lions will be en¬larged at Outeniqua Sports Stadium to accommodate more seats (eventually 20 000 seats by 2010).

"The town would also be geared to facilitate exhibition performance matches. Rosemore Sport Stadium could be upgraded for that purpose. Soccer has a bigger following locally than was originally thought." De Sward said¬

TARGETING TOP SOCCER TEAMS

"It pays to be optimistic and we may as well set our visor high by targeting the top 20 teams participating in the Soccer 2010 World Cup."

This is the opinion of Paul Hoffman who travelled to Germany in 2006 to attend the Soccer World Cup and who still feels optimistic that Eden has a good chance to be a host region.

It will only become clear at the end of 2009, which teams had made it to the finals and would be participating in the World Cup. Only then will it be announced where the teams will be staying - above sea level or below, and what their preferences are.

Public viewing facilities / fan parks must be able to seat tens of thousands of people and have a big screen and are costly venues to create - it could cost up to R10-million.

HEROLDS BAY FESTIVAL 17 – 20 DECEMBER '08
OUBAAI GOLF RESORT

Miss Bikini, flag sprinting, surfing, beach soccer, beach volleyball, touch rugby,.... these are but a few of the activities that can be expected to supply plenty of action during the 2008 Oubaai Heralds Bay festival.

If you haven't started putting your team together for the coming festival, maybe now is the time. Practice after work, during lunch time, tea time, weekends, anytime is fun time if you want to participate in these events. Being 16 years and older, has got you halfway there already.

Beach Soccer teams consists of 7 players per team of which 5 Is needed per game with 2 subs. Games last 7 minutes per side with a 3 mutate rest between the first and second halves.

Beach Volleyball will see 4 players per team battling it out for the honors and here fitness will definitely be an advantage as you will play until there is a winner by at least 2 points.

Touch Rugby traditionally played on Saturday, will work on the same basis as the soccer, with 7 players per team. 5 Playing a side with 2 subs ready to help out.

If you do not have a team and are a competitive individual, enter the MTN Service Centre Flag Sprinting championship where speed and agility will see you grabbing the flag before any of the other individuals. This exciting competition, based on the same exercise life savers need to master, is a popular crowd event with daily preliminary rounds leading up to the final on Saturday 20 December.

Also a huge crowd pleaser, especially under the male attendants, is the Miss Bikini competition where entrants between the ages of 16 and 25 stand a change of winning great prizes! If you have the body and self confidence to show it off, make sure to enter this very popular competition. Daily preliminary rounds will also build up to the finals and crowning of the t time Airline Miss Bikini winner on Saturday 20 December.

With all these hot bodies on the beach there will be plenty of eye candy for young and old. Entries are limited, so make sure you send us your info well in advance. For more information please contact Terra Firma Events on 044 874 2015 or e-mail helena@terrafirmaevents.com

WHEN GOD SPEAKS, RIGHT HEARTED HUMANS RESPOND

In September, The George Herald re¬ported on the Miracle Christian Centre which was opened in Thembalethu by the Department of Social Services earlier this year.

At the forefront of this centre is Pastor Richard Duruwe and a very supportive team who are striving to change society with their vision of transformation. This vision includes things such as empowering the unemployed, reaching out to orphans and HIV victims, educating youth and assisting the aged and poor.

The centre has enjoyed tremendous sup¬port from local businesses and well-doers thus far. Top Gear, Hartman Butcheries, Nissan and Lewis Stores have shown their support in various ways and Pastor Duruwe expressed his sincere appreciation when he visited the George Herald this week. "These generous donations are assisting us in fulfilling our vision," Past Duruwe said.

ENGINEERING AWARDS CITY IS AMONGST THE BEST

George municipality's engi¬neering directorate is now firm¬ly rated as being amongst the top in the country.

This comes in the wake of being awarded the first prize in the environmental category by the Consulting Engineers of South Africa for running the best engineers project, for the second year running.

In total, George has won 6 awards: one for having the best drinking water, best sewerage works, and last week was named by Municipal IQ, an Intelligence Company, and the sec¬ond most productive town in the Western Cape.

SA VIEWERS GIVEN 3 YEARS DIGITAL TV MIGRATION

As of Saturday, South African households are able to tune into high quality digital broadcast television with the brand new digital terrestrial television (DTT).

What is it?
DTT, also called digital terrestrial transmission, refers to modes of tele¬vision broadcasting which do not in¬volve satellite trans¬mission. Besides more pro¬gramming and tele¬vision channel choices, digital broadcasting will allow government to provide viewers with government services over tele-vision, special ser¬vices for the visu¬ally or hearing im¬paired and pro¬gramming in a mul¬tiplicity of lan¬guages.

Learn more
For more informa¬tion about South Africa's digital mi¬gration, feel to visit the SABC's website on www.sabc.co.za

FANCOURT OFFERS BEST OF EVERYTHING

You don't have to be a hotel guest at Fancourt to experience its five-star service. Voted the Golf Resort of the Year by the International Asso¬ciation of Golf Tour Operators in 2004, the estate has a wide range of quality facilities that are open to the public.

Find out more
For more information on any of the above facilities, please contact Fancourt on 044 -804 0000 or visit www.fancourt.com.

Weekly News - 3 November 2008

2008-11-04T03:51:00.000-08:00

CONTENTS
1. NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES
2. TAX CUTS FOR COMMERCIAL OWNERS
3. FANCOURT BALL GOES SHACK CHIC
4. GEORGE 2ND BEST
5. KNYSNA ROAD WORKS ON TARGET
6. OUBAAI HEROLDS BAY FESTIVAL
7. EXCITEMENT AS MALL CELEBRATE 3 YEARS
8. DUTTONS COVE
9. DUO UNFORGETTABLE EVENT
10. ARGUS MTB RACE

NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES

MOSSEL BAY

LIVE WORK AND PLAY

A beachfront apartment development consisting of 125 units of more than 7600m2. North facing with brilliant panoramic views over the sea that extend towards the Outeniqua Mountains to the east and Mossel Bay Point to the west. Situated just 160m from the warm Indian Ocean.

With four unit types to choose from ranging from bachelor apartments, loft bachelors, one and two bedroom units, this will leave you with the feeling of being in your own Mediterranean Villa right
here in Mossel Bay.

So, as you are settling into your deck-chair for siesta time in the lazy afternoon sun, you gaze over the magnificent ocean view and think: why not live, work and play in Mossel Bay!

From R800 000

REEBOK

600 METRES FROM THE BEACH

2 Bedroom, 2 bathroom, luxury apartment 600 metres from the beach. Communal swimming pool. Covered BBQ area, open plan living area and granite finished kitchen.

R756 000
ID3739

WILDERNESS

DREAM SETTING

Amazing setting. Ideal guesthouse potential. 3 Bedroom main house, with breathtaking views. A second one bedroom cottage and a studio apartment.

R3 000 000
ID3745

HARTENBOS

NOW IS YOUR TIME
Don't let this one get away. Invest in this new release development. Security and affordability.

From R1 200 000
ID3744

GEORGE

WELCOME AND RELAXED STAY

Up market Guest House with a separate self-contained owners/managers section.

9 Bedrooms and 8 bathrooms in total.

All details at www.susandeacon.co.za

R3 210 000
ID1102

TAX CUTS FOR COMMERCIAL OWNERS
Good news for commercial property owners is a South African Revenue Service (SARS) ruling that the cost of any new and unused commercial building can be written off at 5% per annum. Amendments to the Income Tax Act allow investors and developers to claim 5% per annum on the cost of any new and unused commercial building, or claim for improvements, commenced since April 2007.

FANCOURT BALL GOES SHACK CHIC

Rated the fifth most prestigious ball in the world, Fancourt has yet again topped all expectations with their Welfare Ball last Saturday, freshly themed Un Wasted Talent.

Dazzling guests with a "Shack- Chic" interior, the total ambience was created with the help of Nico de Klerk, one of South Africa's leading designers of exhibitions, and local crafters of the Sikelela Skills Centree at George Child and Family Welfare.

GEORGE 2ND BEST

George Municipality is amongst the top 10 most productive towns out of 283 municipalities in the country according to Municipal IQ's youngest results.

In the local authority category, George comes second, with Sandanhabaai in the Western Cape achieving 58,9 and George 58,5 points respectively. The other ten most productive towns are all situated in the Western Cape with Knysna coming fourth.

KNYSNA ROAD WORKS ON TARGET

Road works on the Knysna trunk road (Cape Town side) are progressing at a steady pace and are set to be completed before the start of the 2010 Fifa World Cup, says the Department of Transport and Public Works in a press release.

The White Bridge Project between White Bridge and Knysna is valued at R125.4 million. The project started on 17 June this year and is expected to be completed by 16 December 2009.

OUBAAI HEROLDS BAY FESTIVAL17 - 20 DECEMBER 2008
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

It's Oubaai Herolds Bay Festival again! Four fun filled days with favourite events such as the 1 time Airline Miss Bikini competition, MTN Service Centre Flag Sprinting competition, beach soccer, beach volleyball and touch rugby tournaments promise to make this the best festival yet.

As in the past, a variety of family and kids' entertainment activities will be taking place on the beach and at Utopia (in the evenings).

Fun for all
Wednesday, 17 December sees the festival kicking into gear with the BillaBong Girls Get Out There Surf Tour.

EXCITEMENT AS MALL CELEBRATE 3 YEARS

Excitement was definitely in the air on Saturday, 25 October as the Garden Route Mall celebrated their third birthday with various exciting prize giveaways and lucky draws.

DUTTON'S COVE
GETAWAY PERFECT FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Overlooking the beautiful beach and rocky outcrops of Herold's Bay, lies button's Cove - a breathtaking getaway, perfect for any occasion. Now under management of Tracy and Gerhard - familiar faces in the Garden Route - Dutton's Cove offers stylish accommodation, exclusive function and training facilities and delicious cuisine.

DUO UNFORGETTABLE EVENT

Perfect weather, a quality field and the breathtaking scenery of the Eden District on South Africa's Garden Route once again made the Eden Duo an unforgettable event.

This 140 km adventure race, combining disciplines as diverse as mountain biking, kloofing, paddling, trekking and navigation, tested top multi-sport competitors from around the country.

A brand-new route saw racers starting at the Saasveld Gates of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University outside George. A multi-coloured mass of racers sprinted to the top of the Kaaimans River gorge, and proceeded to kloof their way down to the coast, where they transitioned onto kayaks at the Wilderness National Park.

The next 16 hours saw a series of tough challenges, including a gruelling mountain biking leg along the Karatara back roads during the heat of the day.

A monster 26 km hike-and-run along the Outeniqua trail traversed indigenous forest before the racers ascended onto the high slopes of Cradock Peak.

And then, finally, it was all the way downhill as they blasted down the Montagu Pass switchbacks on their mountain bikes. Team USN Land Rover Gear, consisting of Martin Dreyer and Jeannie Bomford, moved into the lead during the second leg and never looked back. Chasing a record time of 16 hours, the two experienced campaigners completed a near-flawless race, finishing just shy of 14 hours in the fastest time ever by a mixed team. They biked over the finish line at the Glenwood House Private School just before 8PM, tired but very happy with their achievement.

ENTRIES DUE FOR ARGUS MTB RACE

Entries into the 7th annual Cape Argus Pick n Pay Mountain Bike Challenge taking place on Sunday 1 March will officially opened on Monday.

The popularity of this fat tyre event continues to exceed expectations and next year is anticipated to be no exception. Entries for the 2009 event will be limited to 4,000 riders only, so enter soon to avoid disappointment.

Weekly News - 27 October 2008

2008-10-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

CONTENTS
1. NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES
2. BITOU TOURISM
3. EDEN ROLLS OUT WORLD CUP ACTION PLANS
4. IMVELO TOURISM AWARDS FINALISTS
5. ONLY THE BEGINNING
6. NEW FUTURE FOR GAMKA- AND GOURITZ RIVER AREAS
7. GRILL CAFE
8. BLACK BUSINESSMAN BUYS PW's HOUSE
NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES

GREAT BRAK RIVER
COMFORTABLE

Comfortable and neat home with well manicured garden, offering living areas, dining room, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, patio with open BBQ area and garage.

R810 000
ID3732

HEROLDS BAY
POSITION, POSITION & POSITION

450 Sqm home with 2 living areas, BBQ room, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, double garage and 2 bachelor flats. POSITION, POSITION, POSITION ........

R4 500 000
ID3733

HEATHER PARK
NATURE AT YOUR SIDE

Exclusive security development. Home with modern features. 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lounge, dining room, study, kitchen, laundry, patio, covered BBQ area and 2 garages.

R2 160 000
ID3734

DENNEOORD
NOW IS YOUR TIME
Don't let this one get away. 3 Bedrooms, bathroom, lounge, BBQ room, kitchen, laundry and garage.

R750 000
ID3735

DENNEOORD
WITH 4 BEDROOMS

Low maintenance family home with 4 bedrooms, 2 living areas, BBQ room, 2 garages and kitchen.

R972 000
ID3736

BITOU TOURISM

BITOU Tourism chief executive Dianna Martin and councillor Doris Xego will attend trade exhibitions in London, Helsinki, Oslo, Copenhagen and Stockholm next month to market Plettenberg Bay as a holiday destination.The trip forms part of Bitou Tourism‘s concentrated marketing efforts, with those of other Eden district towns.“I am attending the World Travel Market and Nordic Road Show with councillor Xego,” Martin said yesterday.
EDEN ROLLS OUT WORLD CUP ACTION PLANS
EDEN district municipality is rolling out action plans for the 2010 World Cup following consultations with foreign experts and visits from international football teams checking out base camp possibilities in George, Knysna and Mossel Bay.Eden deputy municipal manager Norman Angel yesterday said the excitement leading to 2010 had started as the district welcomed reports that the English soccer team had already chosen Pezula in Knysna for its base camp, should the team qualify for the World Cup.
“German and Spanish officials have also been in Eden this month looking at George and Mossel Bay as possible bases for their teams,” Angel said.
He said action plans were being rolled out in Eden district, especially in areas which deserved most to gain from the long-standing benefit of development projects linked to the tournament.
“The legacy areas include building and upgrading infrastructure, especially in areas where facilities are below standard, improving safety and security and the implementation of regular public transport,” said Angel.
Angel said Eden was the first district in South Africa to bring out its 2010 business plan.Eden mayor Rudi Laws said the municipality had already made significant strides in initiating 2010 opportunities for existing as well as emerging businesses and for the community.

IMVELO TOURISM AWARDS FINALISTS

Oubaai Golf Resort has been named one of the 20 finalists in the 2008 Imvelo Responsible Tourism Awards programme, organised by the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (FEDHASA).

Imvelo, running for the seventh year, recognises tourism and hospitality businesses that make a real, measurable and sustained contribution to responsible tourism.

A record number of 134 category entries were received this year.

ONLY THE BEGINNING
MASSIVE ROAD NETWORK ENHANCEMENT

Roads infrastructure upgrading to the tune of R 154million was completed in George over the past few years, and this is only the beginning of some extensive enhancement of the city's roads.

Funds for the work were provided by the Western Cape Transport and Public Works Department (R72in) and George Municipality (R82-m).

Of these funds, R30-m was spent on the first phase of the upgrading of Sandkraal Road. The completion of this project was celebrated with a function at Conville Community Hall on Tuesday where MEC Kholeka Mqulwana cut the ribbon.

She said that the project formed part of the George Mobility Strategy, an initiative of the Department to provide a modern public transport system in George for 2010 and beyond.

NEW FUTURE FOR GAMKA- AND GOURITZ RIVER AREAS

The Gouritz Initiative which was introduced to the media and other stake holders at a recent day tour from Matjiesrivier via Calitzdorp to Van Wyksdorp heralds a new future for the unique and sensitive environment in the Gamka- and Gouritz River areas.

The Gouritz Biodiversity Meander streches from Matjiesrivier at the foot of the Swartberg range to Calitzdorp, all along the Gamka River, over the Rooiberg Pass to Van Wyksdorp and from there through Herbertsdale to Grouitzriver Mouth.
A total of 35 Biodiversity hotspots around the world were identified by scientists and three of there environmentally important and sensitive areas are in the Western Cape.
The Succulent Karoo, Fynbos and Subtropical Thicket habitats overlap with each other and roughly meet at Van Wyksdorp.
GRILL CAFÉ
THE RESTAURANT FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Whether you're looking for a delicious breakfast or a mouth-watering, succulent steak - the brand new Grill Cafe (next to the Heatherpark Super Spar) should be your only choice.

Restaurant for all occasions
Open from Tuesdays to Sundays, this trendy restaurant has something to offer for every taste - from well matured steaks to expertly prepared ribs, healthy salads and mouth-watering chicken and pasta dishes. Delicious seafood meals and a wide variety of appetizers will surely tickle your taste buds whilst you complement your meal with a fine wine from the restaurant's extensive wine list.

BLACK BUSINESSMAN BUYS PW's HOUSE

The home of former State President PW Botha was sold to well-known businessman, Sango Ntsaluba, for R4m.
The renowned property, also known as Die Anker, attracted huge interest resulting in a hotly contested affair with interested bidders arriving from all over the country for a chance to invest in this property.

Weekly News - 20 October 2008

2008-10-21T02:12:00.001-07:00

CONTENTS

1. NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES
2. GEORGE GETS ID MAYOR IN 2009
3. WESTERN BYPASS
4. TOP EUROPEANS IN SEARCH FOR 2010 BASE
5. CIRCLE OF LIFE
6. ESKOM EXPANSION

NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES

WILDERNESS

IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FOREST

Live your dream in peace and tranquility. Situated on 2 hectares of land, two log home, lapa, swimming pool and BBQ area. Secluded in nature, but close to all amenities.

R3 150 000

ID3704

HEROLDS BAY

AWSOME VIEWS
Lovely spacious home with awsome unobstructed sea views. 4 Living areas, kitchen with scullery, 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, dressing room and 2 garages.

R3 450 000
ID3705

GLENTANA

SEA VIEWS AT A BARGAIN

5 Bedroom home with 3 bathrooms, 3 living areas, patio, balcony, BBQ area and 2 garages.

R2 160 000
ID3706

KING GEORGE PARK

COMPACT AND EASY

Easy living home and ideal for lock-up and leave. 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lounge, dining room, oak kitchen and 2 garages.

R972 000
ID3708

HARTENBOS

NO TRANSFER DUTY

Lovely face brick duet with 2 living areas, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 balconies, kitchen with granite tops, laundry, walk-in pantry and quality finishes.

R1 450 000
ID3716

GEORGE GETS ID MAYOR IN 2009

George will get an ID mayor next year November. This is in accordance with a recent power sharing deal brokered between the DA and ID to form the current new alliance.
Flip de Swardt, the present DA mayor, revealed this after the mayoral executive Committee meeting held last week. At the meeting he likened the birth of the alliance to the birth of a baby where teething problems are to be expected.

The power sharing deal had come about following protracted negotiations held at secret locations within George. This followed after the DA alliance broke down and the DA no longer had the majority in Council.

WESTERN BYPASS
STRONG OPPOSITION

"The fight is not over. A western bypass is ludicrous." So says Michelle Behrens, a resident of the rural area around Blanco who is part of a group fiercely opposed to the proposed western bypass for George.

Controversy has surrounded this road - which will link the Outeniqua Pass with the N2 - from the outset of the environmental impact assessment process several years ago.

The process has progressed up to where the consultants, Arcus Gibb have come up with a number of possible alignments for the road which were introduced to the public during two open days held in George and Blanco last week.

TOP EUROPEANS IN SEARCH FOR 2010 BASE

During the last two weeks George had separate visits by two top European soccer officials, Markus Kindl (EMco-ordinator who represents various top teams in Europe) and Carsten Jaksch-Nink who was the Spanish team business organiser, in their search of a base camp for the 2010 Soccer World Cup. The Austrian and the German spent quality time in George and were very impressed with what they experienced. They both expressed that George has the right environment, accommodation, safety and security and relaxation, when needed, for a team to stay.

Visits to top hotels, EDM disaster control, George Traffic, Fire department, George Airport, Outeniqua Park, short/golf courses and the surrounding scenery added to what the town has to offer.

The generous contributions of the local businesses participating to contribute to the comfort of the visitors showed that George is ready to participate in the exciting 2010 event to come.

CIRCLE OF LIFE

Thickets are selling fast for the forthcoming musical show The Circle of Life, to be performed at the Arts Theatre on 24 and 25 October.

Proceeds will go to Reach for Recover George, the Breast Cancer Support Group. Well known director and choreographer Edwina Rapley is also a breast cancer survivor herself.

Book your seat for this fabulous show with Beatrice at the theatre box office at 044 871 1330.

ESKOM EXPANSION

South Africa's beleaguered state power utility firm Eskom said on Monday it planned to double its spending to R343-billion to expand its capacity.
The company has struggled to meet growing demand for electricity and earlier this year was forced to introduce power rationing, which has hurt the economy.The spending would take place over the next five years to 2013, and more than doubles the previous five-year plan that had called for R150-billion in investments.Much of the increase was to take into account increased costs for buying equipment, an Eskom official told AFP."The figure was revised upwards to reflect current realities in the international market," the official said.

Weekly News - 13 October 2008

2008-10-13T03:21:00.000-07:00

NEW FEATURED PROPERTIES

HARTENBOS
POPULAR AREA

Low maintenance home with excellent finishes. 3 Living rooms, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, laundry and 2 garages. Indoor BBQ area ideal for entertaining.

R1 790 000
ID3693
KINGSWOOD
GOOD BUY

Modern well contructed and designed home. 3 Bedrooms, covered BBQ area, swimming pool, kitchen, laundry, 2 living rooms and 2 garages.

R1 990 000
ID3698

GROENEWEIDE PARK
WITH INDOOR BBQ AREA

Lounge, family room, kitchen, BBQ room, garage, 3 bedrooms and bathroom.

R756 000
ID3700
BERGSIG
FLAT POTENTIAL

Older solid home with wooden floors and the potential to have a flat. 3 Living areas, BBQ room, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, patio, 2 garages and staff qaurters.

R1 499 000
ID3701

EVITA AT FANCOURT BALL

Rated the `Fifth Social Function in the World' in 2001 by Gold, an international Condé Nast magazine, the Fancourt Ball is one of the most prestigious charity events in South Africa.

This year, the event will surpass all previous Fancourt Balls on Saturday 25 October through its breathtaking creative originality.

WHEELS START TO ROLL FOR ANNUAL OCC

Preparations are well underway for the city of George's annual Outeniqua Wheelchair Challenge (OCC) presented by Vodacom and Parmalat SA, which coincides with Valentine's Day next year.

The organising committee is preparing for a record 550 athletes who will compete for prize money totalling R229 000 in 44 categories over three distances.

For more information visit the OCC web site www.geocc.co.zaor phone event director Esther Watson on 082 421 9359.

DESIGNER GOLF COURSE GO-AHEAD
Le Grand resort can now add "Golf Resort" to their name, as their much awaited permission has been granted to go ahead and build a Greg Norman signature, 18-hole Links golf course - on the outskirts of Pacaltsdorp.

After receiving the much waited approval of the Environmental Management an (EMP) in August this year, the construction of an 18-hole golf course at Le Grande Golf Resort got off to a dusty start last month.

Greentee Projects from Cape Town were given the al approval in January 2007 after Record of Decision permission was filly issued in December 2006.

Adjacent to the golf course, 312 single residences are to be erected in the busy construction phase that lies ahead.

NEW PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM

Sharples Environmental Services has been appointed to complete the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for a proposed bus depot that forms part of the bigger George Mobility Strategy (a new public transport system).

According to an information document from Sharples, the proposed depot will include associated infrastructure such as wash bays and fuel storage tanks. The proposal is subject to a full EIA. The proposed site (and an alternative site) identified is situated in PW Botha Boulevard in the Tamsui industrial area.

OUBAAI GOLF RESORT

Having acquired two international coveted awards, Oubaai Golf Resort is now officially rated as one of the best in the world.

The awards were handed over to Resort General Manager William McIntyre in London at a glittering gala event over the weekend. The "CNBC Property Awards 2008" was awarded for Best Golf Development in South Africa. The second award - Best Architecture (Multiple Units) in South Africa - is an affirmation that the esteemed panel of judges who visited the resort, were duly impressed with the coastal contemporary architectural style throughout.

OUBAAI FIVE STAR HOTEL

Oubaai's five star Hotel currently under construction, to be managed by the internationally renowned Global Hyatt Corporation, is destined to meet world class standards and due to open in 2009.

This week, Oubaai added the coveted International Property Awards for 2008 to their list of achievements (see story elsewhere).

Shortly after construction began in November last year, Karafi Hospitality and Global Hyatt Corporation signed a management agreement for the 100-room Hyatt Regency Oubaai.

SONGS OF PRAISE FINAL CONCERT THIS YEAR
Conducted by Richard Cock, several local choirs will take part in the George Music Society's final concert of the year, Songs of Praise.

The performers include the South Cape Children's Choir, Outeniqua Primary School Choir as well as the South Cape Symphony Orchestra.

Since starting Songs of Praise in 1991 with only one concert, the project has grown to accommodate performances in 10 centres every year.

With approximately 18 000 people attending the concerts annually and nearly 2 000 choristers of all ages and backgrounds taking part, an amount of over one million is generated every year.

Book your ticket at Jetline (63 York Street), Realty 2000 (3rd Avenue George East) or the Presbyterian Church Office (Caledon Street) and share in the positive message of goodwill and hope on Sunday 26 October (15:00) at the Outeniqua Primary School Hall.
‘ANYTHING GOES’ ROUND TABLE’S 8TH MELODRAMA

With "Anything Goes" as this year's theme for the George Round Table's Melodrama, a crew of 60 amateur performers will give a lively upbeat tribute to new and old popular songs.

With Tavcor York Motors as their main sponsor, the show promises to provide entertainment for all ages. Taking place in the George Civic Centre on 24, 25 and 31 of October as well as 1 November, businesses and individuals should book their seats in advance at 044 871 2931/51 to avoid disappointment.
PLAYER’S TOURNAMENT AT FANCOURT

November will see South Africa and Fancourt joining the international Gary Player Invitational series that has brought top participants around the globe together for golf and giving back at sister events in USA, United Kingdom and China for more than a decade.

The four-event series began in London and after stops in the USA and China, will culminate in South Africa-between 27-30 November at The Links at Fancourt.
NINE CENTRAL BANKS LIKELY TO CUT RATES

Johannesburg - In a desperate attempt to restore stability to financial markets, at least nine central banks are likely to synchronise interest rates cuts within 10 days. This is the view of Michael Power, an investment strategist at Investec Asset Management, who yesterday predicted that South Africa's Reserve Bank "will follow almost immediately".

CANAL WALK SCOOPS AWARDS

Canal Walk was announced Cape Town Best Shopping Centre at a gala event at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
The Best of Cape Town Competition was initiated by Good Hope FM in order to honour those people and institutions that excel in their fields.In addition to winning Cape Town Best Shopping Centre, Canal Walk was also nominated in the category of Best Architectural Design Building.

Weekly News - 6 October 2008

2008-10-06T01:31:00.000-07:00

GARDEN ROUTE BEAUTIES

Miss Garden Route & Klein Karoo 2008 and the Face of Tourism in the Southern Cape was crowned at a gala evening at the Garden Route Casino on Saturday evening. The beautiful Noluthando Mkhoben (20) from George is the winner. Her first princess is 21-year-old Nicole Scholtz, also from George and the second princess is Isobel Imbraifo (24) from Great Brak River. Isobel was also awarded the titles of Miss Personality as well as Miss Photogenic. Noluthando is a second year Local Government Financial student at the Walter Sesulu University in East London. This was the second time that she had entered the Miss Garden Route competition. In 2006 she was runner up when Denise Schoeman from Knysna wore the crown. According to Noluthando she had once again entered the competition because of the opportunities it posed, as well as the outstanding prizes associated with this competition. This was the first big competition that she has won. Photo: Martie de Jager.

FANTASY BALL BRINGS JOBS TO UNEMPLOYED
30 PEOPLE HAVE JOBS FOR MANY MONTHS - MAKING DECOR FOR SOUTH AFRICA'S PREMIER SOCIETY EVENT

A fantasy world is created for this year's Fancourt Spring Ball, with breathtaking decor and intoxicating music from local artists.

To make this fantasy world come true, a team of talented people are hard at work at the George Child and Family Welfare's craft workshop where they are gluing together chandeliers and complicated-looking wire orbs that will hang from the ceiling and contribute to the atmosphere.

BOTANICAL GARDENS A JEWEL

The Garden Route Botanical Gardens must be cherished as a much-loved asset of George, which has wonderful potential to become a magnet for tourists and enhance the lives of Georgians.
It is the earnest desire of the management to fence it to protect it from vandalism. In future City Council will make its contribution towards the end. So said Mayor of George, Flip de Swardt during the recent tree-planting day at the gardens.

This year City Council donated and planted 130 trees to help create a wood-biome. All in all 17 000 trees have been planted since 2002 and the emphasis has moved to indigenous.

According to the mayor they are deeply concerned about the loss of trees through all sorts of developments. "We are doing everything in our power to restore the character of the Garden Route. All initiatives will be continued to rebuild the green character," he said.

For Arbor Day 5000 fruit trees sponsored by DWAF are being handed out to residents who live in barren suburbs.
The Garden Route Botanical Garden management have been lobbying Council for funds for erecting palisade fencing around the gardens for more than a year.
Security and vandalism remains a serious problem and due to the enormous costs involved, it is difficult to fund such a capital expenditure on municipal land, which is utilised by all sectors of the community.

Over the past 13 years, the gardens were laid out and almost entirely funded by a volunteer organisation, the Garden Route Botanical Trust.

Helping Green Hand … The Garden Route Botanical Gardens lovely in spring and even more so with the extra 130 trees planted by Mayor Flip De Swardt, DA councillors and head of departments as well as the green Lady, Susan Deacon and her Family. Rolling up their sleeves they all did their bit.

GOVERNMENT’S PROPOSED RETIREMENT REFORM

The George Business Chamber is holding a presentation on 20 October where David O'Brien, general manager: Retirement and Old Age Reform (Old Mutual) will address business people on the feasibility of Government's retirement (social) reform proposal.

O'Brien will address the following questions: Why is Government introducing a state pension fund? What do you as the human resource director / small business owner need to know about the proposed retirement reforms? How will the introduction of a state pension scheme impact employers? How will it impact employees?

Bring your business cards for a lucky draw

The presentation will start at 07:30 for 08:00 at Pine Lodge, Knysna Road.

The cost R130 for members and R190 for non-members and includes a buffet breakfast.

To book, phone Colleen or Lydia at 044 874 3349.

NATURE LOVERS DISCOVER RED HILLS

Discover the glorious landscapes and wealth of fascinating natural history of the central Little Karoo during a three-day programme, from Thursday 16 October to Sunday 19 October.

Learn about a broad range of local natural history, with a special focus on geology, fossils, landscapes and vegetation - based at the lovely Red Stone Hills Guest Farm near Calitzdorp.

Tuition is through slide lectures, al fresco talks in the field, scenic drives along quiet back roads, as well as several walks in Karoo veld and mountain kloofs.

The programme is led by Dr John Almond who has done considerable research and field guiding experience. For more information contact Petro Potgieter at 044213 3783; e-mail redstonr@pixie.co.za).

Please note that all participants must be sufficiently fit to walk comfortably in rocky veld for a couple of hours if they wish to complete the full programme.

MAKING A HOME LOAN TAX DE-DUCTABLE

Interest on a bond is tax-deductible, provided you stick to certain rules.
A general principle of tax law is that the onus of proof is on the taxpayer to prove deductions to which he/she is entitled. This implies that the burden of proving that an amount of interest is tax deductible rests on you, the taxpayer. Furthermore you would have to justify the calculation of the amount claimed.
In the course of my tax practice I have had several occasions when it has not been easy for taxpayers to establish the amount of interest that is tax deductible.
Take a relatively simple situation. Say that you own a house that you bought for R2m and 20% of the house is used as a home office. The current bond balance is R1,5m - it is an "access bond". Interest on the bond at a rate of 14% is currently R210 000 per annum. You would be entitled to claim 20% of R210 000, or R42 000, as a tax deduction in the production of your rental income. If you draw R100 000 on the bond to finance personal expenses, the bond balance will increase to R1,6m, with the interest thereon appearing on your monthly bond statement.
However the interest on the additional R100 000 is not tax-deductible as it is not in the production of income. This portion of the interest therefore has to be excluded from the calculation of tax deductible interest for all years going forward. Therefore only 15/16 of the 20% of the interest that is reflected on the bond statement will be tax deductible from that point onwards. This percentage will obviously change if further withdrawals are made for non-income producing purposes.A question that sometimes arises is whether the taxpayer can choose how to allocate an extraordinary receipt into the bond account. In the above example, say an inheritance of R400 000 is received. Can you allocate all of this to the 80% private portion of the bond (and none to the "home office" portion), thereby leaving you with a larger income tax deduction going forward, or must it be pro-rated to both the private and ‘home office' portions of the bond balance?The fact is that you only have one borrowing - the bond, which is an undivided borrowing over the whole house. Therefore, once the inheritance is applied to the bond, it must reduce the borrowing over the whole house (pro-rata). You cannot choose to apply the inheritance to only a portion of the borrowing.Therefore, from the point of view of tax-planning, it would be better to apply the inheritance to any other non tax-deductible borrowing that you may have before paying it into the bond. Assuming that you are on the maximum marginal tax rate of 40% and that you are paying interest on your bond at the rate of 14 % per annum, then the effective after tax return on money paid into the bond in the above example is 12,88 % - it is the full 14% on 80% of the bond plus (14 % * 0.6) on the remaining 20% of the bond, giving a result of 12,88%. If you have investments expected to yield an after-tax return of more than 12,88 % it would make sense to pay the inheritance into these investments rather than into the bond. If not, then paying it into the bond is the best solution.

INFLATION TO DECLINE

Inflation is expected to decline in the next few months, due to base effects, falling fuel prices and the introduction of the new inflation methodology, Nedbank Group's economic unit said on Tuesday.
Earlier, Statistics SA said that CPIX rose to a record 13.6 percent in August from 13 percent in July year-on-year, once again exceeding the Reserve Bank's target of three to six percent.
However, inflation was likely to prove to be "much stickier" during the course of next year, Nedbank said.
Rental costs, which would make up around 16 percent of the new CPI index, were likely to rise further in 2009, as prohibitively expensive mortgages and tighter credit conditions increased demand for rental accommodation.
Independent analysts put rental inflation during 2008 at between 10 and 12 percent.

The rand, which was expected to depreciate further on heightened global risk aversion and political uncertainty, would also add to the cost of imported goods, Nedbank said.
Despite August's bad inflation number, the case for monetary easing was becoming more compelling, it added, as inflation was set to ease over the coming months and economic conditions would become much tougher.
"However, the monetary policy committee will remain reluctant to cut rates until inflation is firmly down from its peak and food and fuel prices are trending lower," Nedbank said.
It therefore expected that the first rate cut would come in April.
"With little chance that the domestic demand is going to rebound quickly in 2009 and inflation back in single digits, the Reserve Bank is likely to cut aggressively thereafter."

Weekly News - 29 September 2008

2008-10-01T03:44:00.000-07:00

BUS STOPS ALL OVER TOWN
NEW PUBLIC TRANSPORT SYSTEM

There is a flurry of activity in the Department of Transport and Public Works in preparation for the launch of the new public transport system for George.

Rumours from expectant Georgians that an ultra modem bus fleet have already been purchased were, however, untrue, said Al-Ameen Kafaar, Department spokesperson.

He could not give a definite date for when the wheels of the new bus fleet will start rolling, but said that interim services will commence as soon as negotiations with the taxi and bus industry - who have to form a single transport operator - have been completed.

"Full service will commence soon thereafter. The order for buses will also be placed, but are delivered normally nine months after an order has been placed."

Kafaar said the upgrade of Sandkraal Road was the first phase implementation of the Mobility Strategy, which promises Georgians an affordable, reliable and modern transport system. Up to R300-m will be spent to upgrade infrastructure for the system.

DUO ENDURANCE CHALLENGE

The Eden Duo Endurance Challenge is set to take place along the scenic parts of the George area from 18 to 19 October 2008.

Participants in this adrenaline race will cover a distance of over 150 kilometres over two days by means of paddle, cycling and hiking and will be exposed to the breathtaking scenic views which Garden Route Klein Karoo is known for.

*Entries will close on 30 September 2008 and interested people can go to www.24-7adventure.com for further information.

FYNBOS FAIR

Make a note - on 10 and 11 October the Garden Route Botanical Gardens will hosting its annual Fynbos Fair.

This year the organizers are treating the public to a host of wonderful events.

On Friday evening there will be a traditional lamb spit with live music by Wendy Oldfield and her band as well as local legend Steve Newman. Only one hundred tickets are available and at R120 a ticket, bookings are essential

RAYMOND ACKERMAN SPEAKER AT U3A MEETING

The September monthly meeting of the George branch of the University of the Third Age (U3A) has been changed to Friday 3 October.
The meeting will be held as usual at the George Museum starting at 10:00 promptly The guest speaker will be Raymond Ackerman, chairman of Pick 'n Pay, and he will talk on "Building a company in South Africa pre 1990s and post Mandela".

Ackerman is known to all South Africans as the founder and head of the Pick 'n Pay group, which he started in 1967. He is also well known both as a philanthropist and as an author.

His talk promises to be of great interest to members.

For more information on the activities of the U3A, phone Spencer Hooper 044 874 4907, Estelle Oliver 044 874 1353 or Pam Hodgson 044 884 0351.

GEORGE WILDERNESS TOURISM COMPETITION

More photos were received for the photographic competition presented by George Wilderness Tourism in association with the George Herald.

The competition is part of celebrating Tourism Month in September.

You may enter two photos in each of the following categories:
· NatureScape
· PeopleScape
· Tourism Activity

Photos must be taken within the George municipal area. Mail your entries to: director@georgetourism.co.za or deliver them to 124 York Street on or before the closing date, 17 October 2008.

Cash prizes as well as tourism experiences are up for grabs. A best overall photo will be selected and prizes will also be awarded in the different categories as well as for the best Fvnbos photo.

JOURNEY HAS STARTED TO 2010

The journey on the road to the 2010 FIFA Football World Cup in South Africa has started.

The Tournament kicks off on Friday 11 June 2010 and ends with the final played in Johannesburg on Sunday 11 July.

A total of 208 FIFA affiliated football countries participate in confederations in a knock out matches to qualify for the 31 places in the tournament.

South Africa, being the host country, will automatically qualify for the 32nd spot.

The knock out series in July with the last knock out games to be played as late as November.

The Final draw that will place the 32 teams to compete in eight divisions will only take place in Cape Town on 4 December.

A total of sixteen games will be played between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Cape Town will host a semi-final on 6 July and Port Elizabeth the play-off, for 3rd and 4th places on 10 July 2010.

Only once the respective team managers know where they will play their first round of games will they take the decision base themselves.

There are 65 cities in South Africa competing for the 32 teams’ consideration to use their facilities.

Various factors have a bearing on this decision. There are certain teams that can be influenced with money, big money. One definite factor that will play a major role is how the teams view training and playing at altitude versus sea level.

Other conveniences such as travelling time also plays a role. It is every team's dream to at least make the next round known as the Round of 16, but out of the 32 teams 16 will go home after the first fifteen days of foot ball.

This round starts on 26 June and takes place over six days where after the quarter and semi finals takes place.

The Editor
Marcel Deacon
(Susan Deacon Properties)
marcel@susandeacon.co.za