BRANDIS FARMERS. ASSOCIATION celebrating 125 YEARS UNDERBERG NDERBER. 24 hours COMMUNITY EVENTS WITH THIS CONTRACTING

Underberg - R 8 900 000. Contact Neil 0822134795 www.harcourts.co.za. neil.prior@harcourts.co.za. harcourtsunderberg.co.za Experts in home finance. DISTRIBUTED TO: Hilton, Merrivale, Howick, Curry s Post, Lions River, Nottingham Road, Balgowan, Dargle, Boston - Bulwer, Underberg, Himeville, Bushmansnek, Drakensberg Gardens, Sani Pass, - Creighton, Donnybrook, Ixopo - Swartberg, Kokstad, Cedarville UNDERBERG NDERBER FARMERS ASSOCIATION 1893 2018 celebrating 125 YEARS Before the following article attempts to unpack snippets of the history of our Association, the Underberg Farmers Association humbly acknowledges all the men and women who pioneered our sector, with many of their generations still UFA champions, paving the way for the worthwhile economic growth and increase in tourism that we are Blessed with today. We would also like to thank the Himeville Museum, Mrs Liz Mackay and Mrs Di Sanders for sharing much of the content below. The Christesons This 78 hectare farm is arguably one of the most scenic in the S o u t h e r n Drakensberg. River frontage, views, irrigable land and much more On 13 th July 1893, a meeting between Messrs R Christeson, W Little, T Palframan, P Garson, R Kessler, D Doyle and P Michel took place to form the Underberg Farmers Association (UFA) with its set of rules being adopted at a General meeting a month later. The UFA was officially Constituted by its members under the Chairmanship of Mr R Christison, and in 1913, the UFA became an affiliate of the Natal Agricultural Union, now known as Kwanalu and to which the UFA remains affiliated. The first stock sales were held held at X.L. farm under the hammer of Henry Nicholson, Auctioneer. Animal kraals were built in Underberg on the old UFA site below the Underberg railway station where the first sale on 19 March 1916 yielded 5 000 (R10 000)! Today, we are seeing sales in excess of R7 000 000! Through the generous donation of seven acres of land from Mr J A Van der Plank, the UFA became the proud owner of its own Hall in the village in 1920, which in 1922 became subsidized by the Provincial Administration for use as a School Room. The first students were Stanley Nicholson, Vincent Royton, Vivienne Stone, Cameron Thurston and Kate Nicholson. Due to the unfortunate friction between the residents of Himeville and Underberg, the Himeville Agricultural Society was also formed in the early 1900 s with their first Annual Show taking place in April 1903 at the Underberg Store, Polela. While talks got underway in 1917 to consider an amalgamation between the Himeville and Underberg Societies, and with the railway terminus in Underberg being the main point of contention, a meeting in 1919 decided that this was not to be and the Himeville Farmers 29-30 September Association (HFA) was formed under the Chairmanship of Mr Peter McKenzie. In the years that followed, many disputes were on the Agenda of both Associations, and during the 1920 s and 30 s, the HFA held its stock sales at Pevensey Halt, with the onset of the war causing them to dismantle and sell the pens. Through the ancestry of many of the early families of both the Associations, relationships thawed considerably to the point where both co-operated in the representation of Agriculture in the entire district until the formal closure of the Himeville Association and amalgamation with the UFA in 1999. In the early 1930 s, attention was paid to the value of the soil and afforestation but it would only be in 1954 that a Soil Conservation Committee would be officially formed after the declaration of the district as a soil conservation area. As a result of the involvement of the Association, the first half of the 1900 s brought with it a Magistracy, District Surgeon, railway, formation of Natal s first Seed Potato Growers Association representing 45 acres of seed potatoes, Detective branch, more roads, game ranger and forester, responsibility for the Himeville burial ground, telephone service, school and hostel, its own hall, purchase of engine to supply electricity to the hall, cattle railway loading ramp, the extension of the National Park, a formal library, compliance with the Grass burning Act, discussions with Eskom about district supply and the possibility of securing Veterinary and stock inspector services, as well as a District Surgeon. continued on page 4 082493 8700 mountainecho@telkomsa.net www.mountainecho.co.za Licensed Financial Service Provider (1185) Geoff Clark (Insurance Geoff Clark Advisor) (Insurance Advisor) geoffc@gwk.co.za 033 701 1109 0832900234 geoffc@gwk.co.za SEPT 15 Special Needs School Fundraiser @ U.F.A. Hall see page 2 contact Tina Maloney 0716739770 / 0337021687 SEPT 16 Hike Triple Peaks and Cripple Creek.Little Bamboo Mountain meet at Underberg Country club 8am contact Philip Grant 082-417 9163 SEPT 19 Talk on Rose Propagation by Rob Osborne @ Willowbrooke Farm - Alan & Michelle Howard s farm SEPT 22 Rhino Peak Challenge Conservation Fundraiser www.rhinopeakchallenge.co.za see page 3 SEPT 22 Pevensey Fete @ Underberg Primary School contact Trish Anderson 0829253875 see page 6 SEPT 22 Rhino Peak Challenge on World Rhino Day to make a pledge www.rhinopeakchallenge.co.za SEPT 23 Alan paton Train Trip and Walk Ixopo to book contact bookings@pcngr.co.za SEPT 22-24 Flitwick Ranch Barn Dance & Country Weekend @ Swartberg Contact Rozelle 0735221839/Caela 0714282328 www.flitwickranch.com SEPT 29-30 Underberg Farmers Association Annual Show ufa@futurenet.co.za SEPT 29 Marriage For Dummies Comedy Show - Aaron McIlroy & Lisa Bobbert @ UFA Show 6.30pm R120p.p. tickets limited Tel 033 7011007 SEPT 30 Hike Eustace s Farm Snow Hill braai after walk. Cost R20. meet at Himeville Arms 8am contact Ian Davies 033-701 2768 OCT 3 Berg Music Club meets @ Torridon Room Himeville Arms see page 3 OCT 4 Underberg Country Club Quizz Night, teams of 4 all welcome contact 073 9707 125 OCT 4-7 The Samango Dargle October slackpack see page 7 OCT 10 Tod Collins Book Launch The Art of Being An Awful Angler @ Underberg Country Club see page 3 OCT 13 Oktoberfest @ The Grind Cafe & Restaurant to book 033 7011571 see page 6 OCT 14 MOTHS Fun Bowls day @ Underberg Bowling Club see page 6 OCT 17 Garden Club Talk by Dee De Sousa Incredable Edibles... Fork to Fork @ Anita Turton s home see page 7 OCT 21 Spring Train Trip Creighton to book contact bookings@pcngr.co.za OCT 26-28 Encounter East Griqualand Country and Garden Festival www.encountereg.co.za NOV 8-11 Swartberg Trout Flyfishing Festival contact Shannon Gilson on gilfarming@futurenet.co.za NOV 24 The Sani Stagger for more info www.sanistagger.co.za Jemima Stay (Insurance Advisor) jemimas@gwk.co.za 0824874852 Jemima Stay (Insurance Advisor) 033 701 1109 jemimas@gwk.co.za GWK Insurance gwk.co.za VOL:34 NO: 9 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 FREE NEWSPAPER 24 hours BRANDIS CONTRACTING QUALIFIED REGISTERED PLUMBER: Michael Brandis Brandis 082 082 3217074 7074 QUALIFIED REGISTERED ELECTRICIANS Brian Brandis 082 453 2775 Caspar Grobler 082 562 5591 Fax 086 660 1277 Email: bnbrandis@vodamail.co.za MOVED TO OLD MICA CENTRE UNDERBERG Proud members of the E.C.A.: E.C.B. and a Registered Electrical Company with the Department of labour. Our work is gauranteed and proven over the past 20 years WE PROMO OMOTE COMMUNITY EVENTS WITH THIS SPACE

PAGE 2 082493 8700 mountainecho@telkomsa.net www.mountainecho.co.za SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 THEMBA MTOLO WILL BE SORELY MISSED BY THE WHOLE COMMUNITY At his memorial service at The Jabulani Hall in Himeville many people spoke of him as a unifier and man of reason It had been Themba s wish to thank the Underberg community for the love and support the Mtolo family received after the passing of Wiseman (S the, Mbhekaphansi) Mtolo. I d be lying if I were to say I remember each person who sent condolences, and I stand the risk of leaving some names out if I mentioned people s names, Themba had said. To everyone who supported, sent flowers, food parcels, love or gave uplifting words to any member of the Mtolo family, THANK YOU. You made the load of loosing a loved one somewhat bearable to the family. It is very unfortunate that Themba never got to finish drafting the thank you note he wanted so much to send to our local newspaper. Once again, the family received more love and support from the Underberg community after Themba s passing. We would like to also send special thanks to the Berg Protection ERMS team, for we know that they did everything they could to save him. The family is very grateful for everything the Underberg community did for them during the difficult time of the passing of their sons. Yours Sincerely. The Mtolo family ELECTROTECH TECH Tel: 033 7011240 082 350 7891 RADIO - TV - SATELLITE SYSTEMS SALES, REPAIRS & INSTALLATIONS. WE INSTALL EXPLORA Tristan Malloney 0337011571. Shop 20,Trout Walk Centre, 12 Burger Sani Road and Bever erage e Night R75!! Dharmagiri is nestled on Bamboo Mountain outside Underberg. We are dedicated to inner awakening and a more compassionate, equitable, and sustainable world. We offer silent meditation and mindfulness retreats, and a range of workshops. Our intention is to support peace and harmonious living with each other and within our shared world. Monday Night Burger and Thur hursda sday Night Pizza Pizza And Pasta Special From17h00 Open For Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Mon Sat 8am to 9pm Sunday 8am to 5pm Steaks, Salads, Pizzas, Burgers, Light Meals, Kiddies Dishes, Tea and Illy Coffee available. 0337011571. Shop 20,Trout Walk Centre, 12 Sani Road Dharmagiri Sacred Mountain Retreat. October 26 th to 28 th Doodling, Dreaming, Describing, and Discovering: A Meditative Approach to Drawing with John Rohm. More details to follow. December 7 th to 9 th Meaningful Living: A workshop to explore the teachings of Logotherapy & The Lighthouse Special Needs School I am extremely delighted to inform our community that we will be opening a Special Needs School beginning of 2019. This is long overdue as we are a growing community and have a desperate need for a Special Needs education facility to accommodate our children. Our school will be operating completely independently of any other educational institution in the area. We do, however, want our children in a mainstream environment as this is essential for their social development which in turn positively impacts on their academic development. This is also an excellent opportunity for mainstream leaners to understand that our children are merely normal children with special needs. We do not want our children isolated and marginalized but would rather they, somehow should form part of their peer groups. We are in process of negotiating with the Underberg Primary School to rent accommodation from them. These negotiations are still underway with no confirmation received. We will find the right accommodation for our children and we will be opening early in 2019. There are many misconceptions about a person with Special Needs and there is no judgement in being uneducated about a particular disability or condition. We would like to educate our community and enlighten them to better understand and accept these amazing children. Each one is a wonderful blessing to us as parents and we want to share our blessings with the community. We have started fundraising as the costs to initiate and maintain an educational institute is high. We need a room as a classroom as well as a second room/area to accommodate therapy sessions. The children also need an area how to design a life of purpose, with Klasie Wessels & Sam Sparks. More details to follow. December 15 th to Jan 20 th Ashram Retreat with Chandasara and Solwazi The retreat will offer mornings of practice with afternoons open and meditation in the evenings with dharma talks every second evening. We will celebrate the Christmas message of love, compassion and forgiveness on Christmas eve and Christmas day including a ceremony in the evening of Christmas day. We will also celebrate the New Year and reflect on the year gone by and set our intentions for the year to come. For those who want to stay up we will see in the New Year, have a later start on New Years day and a forgiveness and intention setting ceremony in the evening of New Years day. You do not need to commit for the full Ashram period. People are welcome to join in whenever and for however long they are able to. Discounts will be offered, dependent on length of stay. For more details of daily schedule, please contact Penny Jane. More Info: www.dharmagiri.org Bookings: Penny Jane at office@dharmagiri.org Cell: 082 473 5525 Cost: Daily rate per person per night from R450 in shared twin to R550.00 in Single en suite.+ Teacher s Travel surcharge & Dana that they can go to when they require time alone with the Teacher, Occupational therapist or the Speech and language therapist, away from possibly an over stimulating classroom. Our first fundraising event will be held on 15 th September 2018 at the UFA Hall in Himeville. It is a regte egte Boere Opskop with dancing, a bring and braai and don t forget your own beverages, plates and knife and forks. Tickets are R100 each 13 yrs and older and R50 for children age 4 to 12. Children under 4 are free entry. The tickets will buy you salads, pap en sous, music and entry into a lucky draw with some incredible prizes. Huge thanks to members of our local community for their generosity in donating prizes. If you haven t bought your ticket already, please do so quickly as numbers are limited. Our next fundraiser will be announced shortly. This is a unique and new exciting initiative for our town. It is a learning process for the initiators of this project. However, our vision stands firm to open a Special Needs school that will be run skillfully and with transparency and always in the best interest of our children. We are starting small but our future is bright and we would want to expand and grow to be able to assist as many Special Needs learners as we possibly can. This project has great potential with a sustainable vision. Our children have a right to education and as we do not have a formal educational institution that can assist our children, we are starting them one. We are asking for the continuous support from our wonderful community, without whom we would not have been able to dream about a project that is now a reality. Please feel free to contact me if you have any enquiries. Thank you and untill we chat again.. Tina Maloney 0716739770 / 0337021687 MOUNTAIN ECHO Is Your newspaper. Your input is valued! DEADLINE DATE OCTOBER 7 DISTRIBUTION DATE OCTOBER 14 CHURCH NOTICES Parish of Drakensberg (Anglican) St Michael s Himeville Every Sunday Only 09h00 Please contact Revd Merryl James 081 271 1760 Email merrylvjames@gmail.com Catholic Church Mass 1 ST and 3 RD Sundays at 8am. Communion services 2 ND and 4 TH Sundays at 8am Underberg Baptist Church Polocrosse Hall in the Underberg Club groundstime: 9am every SundayCommunion: 1st Sunday of each month [at 9am]. Errol King 033 7012428 Underberg Congregational Church Rev. Edward Pietersen 033-7011394 / 082-8896362 Secretary 082-4038864 Email: congchurch.underberg@gmail.com Sunday Services: 9am Communion Service: 1st Sunday of the month Weekly Prayer Meeting: Tuesdays at 6pm There is a big screen TV monitor in the parents lounge for those parents with children who would like to watch the service in a comfortable enviroment. Highlands Church International Johann and Debbie Van As 033 7011470 Sunday: 08:30 Prayer Meeting 09:00 Celebration Service 09:00 Kids for Jesus (all ages welcome) Tuesday: 15:00 Pevensey Minstry Thursday:18:00 Prayer Meeting Riversdale Family Fellowship Meet at Underberg Education Academy just outside Himeville on your left at 9am. Riverkids sunday school 9-11am Jason Atlee 076 667 6022.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 082493 8700 mountainecho@telkomsa.net www.mountainecho.co.za PAGE 3 UNDERBERG AUTHOR LAUNCHING NEW BOOK The Art of Being An Awful Angler 10 OCTOBER @ UNDERBERG COUNTRY Y CLUB Tod Collins s 5 th book The Art of Being An Awful Angler will be flung to the public (Winston Churchill s words) at the Country Club on Wednesday 10 th October at 6.30 p.m. The subtitle describes the book as a collection of wry and humorous stories that follow an ordinary fisherman s journey into mindfulness and a trout line runs through it. The author pulls the mickey out of FFFs (first-class fly-fishermen) whose primary object is to catch as many huge fish as possible, comparing them to AAs (awful anglers) whose aim is simply to go fishing! While trout angling is the focus of many of the 40 chapters Tod takes the reader to a grouse shoot in Scotland, a marlin fishing expedition off New Zealand, a show-down with four gangsters in Australia, and a night-long battle with a giant salmon (or shark or skate or crocodile) off the Transkei coast. Local readers will enjoy the chapters that include John Vinnicombe and Ron Cousens, Large Turner and Bob Crass, and the drama of The Thurston s Duckpond alongside the viewpoint over Underberg village. While many are filled with humour, some chapters narrate drama and dangers that have engulfed anglers and others bring a lump to the throat with downright pathos. The latter are used to embroider the first prong of the book s title, The Art of Being or living in the moment. Collins uses this book to wistfully encourage us to recognise and appreciate the myriad moments that life serves us, whether lovely or funny, sad or deep. A collection of photographs and simple sketches add to the book s charm, as do the quotes at the end of each chapter. The editor, Slash Esprey, said, I have completed the first proofing of a wonderful and very different piece of writing excellence. I have altered very little - slips of the finger on the key board mainly. This work, for me, is your piece de resistance, or opus magnum. Launch price R200. The book will then be on sale at The Lemon Tree, The Duck and NUD Sports & Coffee Bar for approximately R270.00. It will be an excellent Christmas gift for anglers and nonanglers alike! BERG MUSIC CLUB - 3 October What a line up!!! Berg Music Club will be meeting on the first wednesday of every month at the Torridon room at the Himeville arms at 6pm. A good size crowd turned out to listen to Callie Barrow, Denis Botha, Gordon Deeves, Andy and Lin Dillon, Peter De wet, Mike Fletcher, Fiona Tozer, Haydn Rattray, Gwyn Viljoen, Neil Prior and Phili Dlamini from Faithway School, what a beautiful voice and a future star. Haydn Rattray also blew the crowd away. The evening and the musicians were said to be the the best that the crowd had heard. What a line up and they will all be back. Plus there is a possible surprise performance by Luke Wyngaard. Rhino Peak Challenge 22 September When the world celebrates World Rhino Day on 22 September, a group of elite athletes and people of influence will raise money for the conservation of rhino and other endangered species by taking on the annual run and hike up the iconic Rhino Peak in the Southern Drakensberg,Underberg. This year ten elite athletes will take on the challenge and will use their wide reaching influence to attract pledges from the general public as they try to raise as much money as possible in aid of the rhino and the Bearded Vulture, which inhabits the Rhino Peak itself as well as large parts of the Drakensberg. Amongst the elite athletes are the likes of Rory Scheffer, who is an athlete with conservation particularly close to his heart, looking to chase the Fastest Known Time that was set by Kane Reilly in 2017 a record that he held in 2016. There will be a number of newcomers to the 2018 event with the likes of local Phillip Shezi, who is a multiple Comrades Marathon medallist, former SA Long Course Trail Champion Johardt van Heerden, UCT student Robert Rorich and Gijima Trust athlete Mlungisi Mzibuko. From a ladies perspective, Toni McCann, Noami Brandt and Linda Doke will be taking on the challenge. All three have impressive records with McCann winning the Sundowner Run, part of the Ultra-Trail Drakensberg. Doke s record includes victories in five of the six 100 Milers that she has taken part in as well as being the mixed record holder, with Ryno Griesel, for the Drakensberg Grand Traverse. Brand s pedigree is equally impressive with the West Coast star claiming the women s titles in both the Karkloof and Addo 100 Miler races in 2017. She also represented South Africa in the Trail World Championships this year. There is a wide ranging group of influential people that have been selected for this year s event. From sports related people to adventurers, conservationists and celebrities the event will be hoping to better the 2016 record of R320 000, and aiming at a goal of R500 000. One of the most high-profile names taking part this year is famous adventurer Sibusiso Vilane. Vilane has an incredible resumé which includes, amongst many other things, being the first black person to scale all seven summits - as well as twice summiting Mount Everest. Included in the people of influence are international rugby referee and well know event organiser Stuart Berry, KAP sani2c founder Glen Haw, who will be back for his third RPC, as well as current Mrs South Africa and adventure enthusiast Nicole Capper. There will be a number of influential conservationists taking part including Operations and Co-Ordinations Manager for Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Nkosinathi Ntoyi, Co-Founder and Chairman of Wildlife ACT Johan Maree, Veterinarian and Head of Clinical Development and Regulatory Affairs, Bayer Animal Health Dr Clinton Austin and Jacques Flamand from the World Wildlife Fund. This year will see the introduction of a team from Rhino Africa. Rhino Africa provides tailor-made tour packages for people in Africa. They will field a five-person team to take on the challenge.anyone interested in making a pledge to support any of these athletes can visit www.rhinopeakchallenge.co.za Jennifer s Unisex Hair Salon Stockists of Indola & Joico products 4 Pin Oak Lane off Ridge Road Underberg. Tel: 033-7011689 Cell: 083 9639 816 The Olde Duck Restaur estaurant ant Fully Licensed. Open Every Day 8am - 4pm Gift shop Boutique, Animal Farm & Playground. 1 Km Along Drak Gardens Road Cell: 074 141 3153

PAGE 4 www.mountainecho.co.za mountainecho@telkomsa.net 082 4938700 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 U.F.F.A..A. CELEBRATES 125 YEARS Worthy of mention is the faithful service to the UFA during this time in the position of Secretary/Treasurer by RD Nicholson, affectionately known as Uncle Des, with the support of his wife, Olive. His employment is documented from 1939 to 1940 and then upon re-election from 1941 until his retirement in 1992, an indication of the calibre of members that the UFA encourages! The Association sought affiliation with the Natal Agricultural Union in 1913 and became members of Stock Owners in 1945, thereby increasing their input regarding all relevant farming practices. During the last half of the 1900 s many of the prior requests and applications were granted: Dr PN Collier became the resident Vet in 1957, and his Practice still faithfully serves our District through his very capable successors. With a vision for education, the UFA was included in the formation of the MHH CLUPID bursary fund, which represented Underberg and all the surrounding farming districts as far afield as Harding and Lufafa Road! The UFA also formed its own member-dedicated Education fund, and both of these education initiatives continue to service students from our district. A continuous telephone exchange was introduced in 1958, Ivan Tarboton supplied generated electricity, with the added relief of cinema evenings above what is now the Shell Garage and KFC! The Radio Committee was formed, Escom finally arrived and the new UFA premises housed the valuable local Nursing Services, with Nommer asseblief giving way to fixed line telephone exchanges in the early 80 s. Vulture restaurants were starting to pick up and the use of Gromoxone for fire breaks also started to spur interest amongst the land-owners. An upswing towards irrigations systems also becomes popular and the arrival of the first Extension officer was welcomed to an office created at the new Hall. The access to this developing farmers hub was vastly improved with the installation of the White Pillars and a cattle grid on the main road to Himeville, which was eventually tarred in 1972. In honour of the historic contributions made by the UFA, at the official opening of the new hall in 1974, the NAU presented the UFA with the Kiwi Trophy for Best Performing Farmers Association in Natal, a trophy which was won three times until the Trophy ceased presentation in the early 80 s. Since the advent of the new South African Democracy, the Association has gone through a number of changes and faced challenges of huge proportions, such as the bankruptcy of Stock Owners, which was an integral part of the Association. They were replaced by our current Auctioneers, Farmers Livestock Agents, in 2004. Of interest, in the late 80 s, one of the UFA stock sales was the first for Stock Owners to turn over more than R1 000 000. The decision to sell the facility in the Underberg village was made in the early 2000 s and 2007 saw the Association having its first stock sale at its new grounds on the Sani Pass Road, a facility of which the UFA can be very proud. The UFA was a part of the District Centenary and held their annual Show in commemoration, and with added numbers at the monthly sales, 1989 produced both Champion Single and Group Carcass in the Meat Board National Carcass competition, while in May of that year, the UFA stock sale reached in excess of 1200 weaners, the highest Association turnover in Natal. For the residents of our area, the annual UFA Show remains the highlight of the year, giving the farmers an opportunity to step into the arena of competition and demonstrate the highest quality of animal husbandry that is synonymous with the revered mention of Underberg and Himeville in these circles. Over the years, our members have scored exceptionally at the highest level of competition and they still do, being the only Farmer Association willing to continuously show cattle in a handled section. Currently, the Royal Show is the only other event in KwaZulu Natal to host this section, with progress being made in other independent quarters to revive it. The history of the UFA achievements in livestock ranching is well documented on the numerous trophies that are handed out each year, and together with the many supportive Sponsors of this event, we will continue to keep our standard up there with the best! As South Africa s history started to adopt a more radical course in the late 80 s and early 90 s, it became obvious that in order to stay relative, drastic changes regarding approaches and mind-sets were needed. It soon became clear that the UFA had to involve itself in the informal Black Farmer Associations in our area and in 2008 and 2009; the Presidents reports mention land reforms and support for emerging farmers. Involvement in various workshops and discussions related to the introduction of VAT, land ownership i.r.o. the Group Areas Act, rural schooling facilities, relationship building with Lesotho, implementation of Basic Conditions of Employment, mobile training courses and voter courses formed part of the new UFA mandate. This heralded a new dawn for the Association, drawing on the tenacious experiences of the stalwarts of the past to motivate and encourage the navigation into a future that was very different! Having already had a Strategic Planning Session to plot a new course for the Association, a more embracing style for the UFA commenced. This was spurred on by further Strategic Planning in 2012 at which it was decided that the UFA had to step up and commit to its relational reforms with neighbouring rural counterparts and the position of a Liaison Officer was mooted. In 2010 rural development was a priority with the Association and ground breaking consultation was held between the UFA, Kwa Sani Municipality and community leaders to get an initiative going equally contributed to by all, with UFA members providing the majority of expertise and administration. This has been an on-going exercise and in 2014 Wayne McNamara was appointed as liaison/project officer for the UFA and has been accomplished in doing constructive, sustainable work with local communities ever since, and enabling our reach into the political corridors of agriculture. Another initiative that arose from the latter Strategic Planning exercise was the formation of a local anti-stock theft unit. Trans-border stock-theft had become critically important to control, and the area was losing millions across the Lesotho border, which formed part of the newly established UKhahlamba Drakensberg World Heritage site. However, owing to the complicated operational logistics and access restrictions within the site, the initiative gave way and efforts became more focused on local security. In order to maintain secure borders, the UFA remains persistent in its efforts to have the major mountain passes closed, and are currently negotiating for cabling to be the preferred method of obstruction. 2008 Saw the introduction of property rates on agricultural land and a delegation from the UFA met with the local Municipality to discuss the implications and roll-out. After months of protracted engagement, agreements were made regarding the implementation time frame and acceptable values and randages. Once again, tenacity and commitment created an opportunity to engage and resolve issues which were previously deemed non-negotiable, an attitude that the Committee holds to date as they forge ahead with on-going representation regarding the role that organized agriculture plays in the Municipal fiscus. Included in this debate was a demonstration of how the then Kwa Sani Municipality regarded the Agricultural sector, despite its former opinions, and took a bold step in granting additional benefits that would go a long way to improve relationships, overall security and rural development in our area. The district has proved that joining hands develops trust, which in turn increases the socioeconomic potential of our area, to be enjoyed by all who live in it. In 2012, the UFA initiated a major project with Local Government and then MP s, Ina Cronje and Willies Mchunu, to improve one of the main commodity routes in our area, viz, the Bushman s Nek loop. While top officials attended the public meeting and genuinely gave their support to the complete rehabilitation of the P125, red tape and changes in Administration have resulted in the lack of progress of this project, which continues to hamper the much needed economy that emanates from this area. Government support in the area of extension services and soil conservation has sadly dwindled away but the various offshoot committees of the UFA, such as the UFA Radio Network, Southern Berg Fire Protection Association, Underberg/Himeville Community Watch and Underberg/Himeville Centenary Bursary Fund continue to play a major role in the everyday life of the District as a whole. Commercial farmers continue to support the Milk Production Organisation, Red meat Production Organisation and the Wool Growers Committees, with growing representation in the revived potato sector, and timber industries in our area. The UFA also has representation on the local Safety and Security Committee, Roads Advisory Committee and is a subscriber to the Pholela Biosphere. While Rotary, Lions International and Moths have featured in relationship with the UFA over the past decades, Sani Round Table 152 continues to support our initiatives and still host their monthly meetings in the UFA hall, an arrangement that is long-standing. These dapper young men have over generations played an integral part in the Community life of our district, making valuable contributions in any way possible to deserving members of our area, with Pevensey Place Cerebral Palsy Home for Adults being their primary Charity. Since its formation, over 40 committed and patriotic men from our district, together with their supportive Committees and insightful Trustees, have been Chairmen of the UFA. These men and their support teams have freely given of their time and experience to ensure the longevity of the sector in our heartland, and the sentiment remains the same to this day. They have also been responsible for the sustained relationships that we have with our Farmer Association counterparts within the greater District and throughout KwaZulu Natal. Through our affiliation with Kwanalu and AgriSA, we are continually updated with news of our sector and its challenges and direction, and we acknowledge those within continued on page 5

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2018 082493 8700 mountainecho@telkomsa.net www.mountainecho.co.za PAGE 5 BIRDING IN THE SOUTHERN KZN DRAKENSBERG The owl season is almost over with Barn Owls having produced 4 fledged young on Dublin and probably the same number at Wilsons Dam. The Spotted Eagle Owls have produced two large chicks at Ansell and Lynne Matchers as well as Brian and Cathy Choromanskis. Pam Ellenberger and Bart Fokkens separately reported the Spotted Eagle Owl in the quarry on the Bushman s Neck road with at least one chick. These owls really need to be protected as they do great work in rodent control. They consume more rodents than what people can achieve with poisons, which ultimately have a negative effect as they often kill these very birds. There could be a lot more done with owls if only the landowners understood this. What is required is safe nesting sites and a very helpful method of assisting the birds foraging in lands is to place strategic poles from where the owls can hunt by perching and observing the land below. The other problem is to educate those who believe owls bring death, sadly a terrible cultural misunderstanding. I would long be dead should owls bring death to those within a house where an owl perches!! Most people just do not witness the birds on their roof, but it happens probably on a nightly basis. The Purple-crested Turaco which has now been in Underberg for more than a year was recorded by Pam Ellenberger calling at Cedar Garden on 24 August. Was this bird brought in as a cage bird, I wonder? Dylan Weyer saw Groundscraper Thrush at Heron Valley on 11 August. Fiona Lincoln saw Yellow-billed Kites in Underberg on 13 The Well Worn Theatre Company Wows Water Explorers By: Julia Colvin We all know the topic of water is a critical discussion in South Africa and much of the conversation we have with our children is often framed in a negative and pessimistic light. With language like Don t leave the tap running Pick up your litter and Without water we will all die in an increasingly water scarce world it all seems like doom and gloom leaving children feeling helpless and inert in tackling some of our greatest future challenges. Water Explorer, an online international water saving programme hopes to change these perspectives to make South African children feel empowered to make a positive impact for a brighter future. This August, the Water Explorer top performing Harry Gwala District schools; Enkelebantwana Primary, Mphephetha Primary, Blessed Luanda Primary and Mjila Primary School was generously sponsored a visit by the well-known and charismatic travelling theatre company, Well Worn theatre. Directed by Kyla Davis and performed by three elvish local actors from Joberg, this show gave a heartening James and Goliath account of a gangly bunch of school children trying to save their river from the scourge of pollution belching out of their town s nearby factory. The children bravely needed to confront their greedy and corrupt municipal manager who decides to turn a blind eye when the temptation of money in the form of a greasy handshake becomes the order of the day. The show unpacks some of the murky issues of social and environmental justice with humour and empathy, it teaches children about being courageous and doing what is right for the planet even though it seems the odds are stacked against you, explained Kyla. For the head Water Explorer club teachers Ziyanda Ndlela from Mphephetha Primary School, this encapsulates the message we often share with our children, No matter how small you think you are, every action taken, every transgression brought to account and every drop saved is an achievement. Make every drop count she beams. Water Explorer project manager, Bridget Ringdahl would personally like to applaud all our Harry Gwala schools for their on-going efforts to champion our environment. From building eco-bricks to contain unrecyclable plastics, to growing their own food without using water polluting chemicals and participating in comprehensive water audits to crack down on water wasting habits, this programme has given August. Aldo Berruti reported two Brownbacked Honeybirds in his Underberg garden on 19 August and four White Storks outside Underberg on 22 August. Pam saw Whitethroated Swallows on 24 August at the Polela Bridge. Fairy Flycatcher was seen by Aldo and myself on the Sani Pass on 31 August. I saw Dark-capped Yellow Warbler and Dusky Flycatcher on the Sani Pass 6 September and I saw my first Malachite Sunbirds for the season on 28 August, so the intra-african and altitudinal migrants are moving in slowly. Some other good birds seen locally by Bart Fokkens are Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk, African Rail. Photo: Stuart Mc Lean these schools the knowledge and tools to engage and act on vital water issues. Whilst water saving and pollution prevention is the major aim of the programme, prizes and opportunities such as this visit from the Well Worn Theatre Company provide great incentive to motivate action. Already two of our schools, Mphephetha Primary and Mjila Primary have been awarded a R4000 water festival with Mjila Primary School clenching one of the top 6 positions in Water Explorer, South Africa for their outstanding efforts. Water Explorer is an HSBC sponsored water focused program spanning 11 countries. In South Africa it is implemented by the African Conservation Trust. With over 400 South Africa teams participating this year, the program, now in its 4 th year, has grown from strength to strength with bucket loads of water saving efforts equating to a massive 2 million cubic metres of water saved. To join this exciting initiative, Schools, eco-clubs, scout/cub groups can register for free at www.waterexplorer.org UNDERBERG FARMERS ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES 125 YEARS. ANNUAL SHOW 29-30 SEPTEMBER African Quail Finch, Purple Swamphen and Black-crowned Night Heron at Penwarn. I found African Rail and African snipe on the Pevensey road, the Snipe have small chicks at the moment. Pam saw Bronze Mannikins at Cedar Garden and Rufous Breasted Sparrowhawk at Dieu Donne and an immature African Jacana at Ottermere. Bill Small recorded two adult African Jacana last month on the route past Moyeni. Crosley Black saw Alpine Swifts in Scotston on 24 August. A Forest Buzzard was seen by Aldo and I on the 31 August at the base of Sani Pass. By Stuart Mc Lean MALACHITE MANOR RESTAURANT OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER EVERY DAY Come & relax by our unique fireplace Sunday Roast Buffet Lunch 1 st Sunday of every month Thursday nights 10% off all menu items Drinks full price 4kms along the Drakensberg Gardens Road Bookings essential +27 836452026 Birds ds & Beyond - Bird Tour ours & San Roc ock Art Walks www.bir.birdsandbe dsandbeyond.co ond.co.za.za Tel: 033 7021761. Cell: 082 742 6981 Stuart t Mc Lean SILVERSTREAMS Accommodation: Cell: 082 331 6670 www.silverstreams.co.za Trading Store: Open Daily 08h00-17h30. All basic needs wood and ice. Etc. At the Trading Store you will also find some Curios - A Tea and Beer Garden (No liquor sales on Sundays) - Tubes for Hire. Horse Rides and Pony Rides: Info and Bookings at Trading Store. Our Farm Yard DIE PLAASWERF should be in operation within the next few months. Hiking, Birding and Rock Art info and daily permits available from KZN Wildlife Office - this Office borders the Silverstreams Camping Site You will find us on your way to the Waterfall which is situated at Bushman s Nek Border Post current affairs are addressed on our behalf. No matter which way one turns, the UFA set in motion an influential a n d significant impact on life in this district and what is very encouraging to see is that, even though farming is Chairman of U.F.A. Kelvin Craig continued from page 4 becoming more and more bureaucratic by nature, second and third generation farmers are unafraid of taking up the leadership of the Underberg Farmers Association and will guide it into the future. Whatever that may hold, farming must go on! Our past has defined our present, and our present will determine our future. Woza, sihambisane! Come, let us go together! If you would like to be a part of our continued exciting journey, please call the office to become a member. We represent all types of farmers, village and business members, all invested and interested in organized agriculture! For more about the fascinating history of the UFA and to see exhibits and photography from a by-gone era, please stop in at the UFA Show on 29 and 30 September 2018 at the UFA Sale Yards on the Sani Pass road. Liz Mackay and the knowledgeable folk from the Himeville Museum will be in attendance to tell you stories that you possibly would find hard to believe! By Belinda Louch

PAGE 6 www.mountainecho.co.za 082493 8700 mountainecho@telkomsa.net SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 Underberg/Himeville Trout Fishing Club AUGUST Stats : Rivers were closed for the month. Dams 23 rods caught 56 trout. longest 48cm. Rivers opened 3 September until further notice. Rod fees are R150.00 per rod per day per beat and can be bought at NUD Sports 033 7011096. Office open on weekends 8am - 10am otherwise call 0826363985 Submitted by Mike Pitt UHTFC BERG G PROJECTS WE CAN ASSIST YOU ON THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS. Plumbing repairs & installations. Painting. General maintenance & repairs. Renovations. Garden service & cleaning NEW Carpet, rugs and upholstery cleaning FOR AN AFFORDABLE ABLE QUO UOTE CONTACT CT ADRIAAN VAN DER WAL ALT - 0848079559 AMAKHOSI CONTAINER SALES STORAGE : REFRIGERATED : CONVERSIONS BEST PRICES AND QUALITY : 3m, 6m, 12m 29 YEARS 27 EXPERIENCE DENNIS WESLEY: 083 733 6208 dennisw@acsales.co.za Kee eep War arm or cool Insulate with ISOTHERM (insula ISOBOARD ARD(insula (insulated ted & w (insulate ceiling) ted & water terpr proof ceiling board) CONTACT CT YOUR LOCAL AGENTS UNDERBERG FORGE 033 7011420 RPM CONTRACT CTORS TEL: 033 7011419 Cell: 0741024808 Rory rory@rpmcontractors.co.za PEVENSEY FETE 22 SEPTEMBER Does anyone have any idea why 1 September The Pevensey fete will take place at Underberg School on Saturday 22 SEPTEMBER starting at 9am. We would be very grateful for any donations or contributions towards stalls. We are always overwhelmed by the support of our local community and hope you will join us at the fete. For information or donations please phone Pevensey Place on 033 7011882 or Trish on 7011967 or 0829253875. There will be lots to do, eat, drink and buy for a wonderful cause.stalls include:- White Elephant, Vegetables, Books, Meat and Biltong,Tea and pancakes, Raffles and Garden stall. Come and enjoy the day and support a good cause. Under the Tin Hat Hello all our readers. Another month gone. Where has the year gone? Pete Hampson, Gary Smith and myself went to a Moth District Meeting which was held at the Moth Cottages in Pietermaritzburg. At the end of the meeting we presented the Moth Cottages with a donation of R10 000 to go towards a Disabled Ramp Fund. See if you can spot the three Underberg Moths in the photo. I will give you a hint. The Moths from down there asked us what they put in the water in Underberg that makes us grow so tall. We have our Annual Fun Bowls Day on 14 th October. See the advert for details. This year we have not located a Sponsor but the Games must go on. We therefore request the public to come and play, as this will be our main source of income. The more teams the better. I can assure you that the day is a real Fun Day. Well that s all for now. YUTTH Len Wittstock (Old Bill) 0790941029 TRIVIA Why do Xs at the end of a letter signify kisses? In the Middle Ages, when many people were unable to read or write, documents were often signed using an X. Kissing the X represented an oath to fulfil obligations specified in the document. The X and the kiss eventually became synonymous. Museum Musings is celebrated as Spring Day? After all, we never seem to hear people announcing that 1 March is the first day of autumn, or 1 December being the first day of summer, do we? Yet, if we assume that there are 4 seasons in the year and that each one is therefore 3 months long, by this reasoning 1 December should herald that beginning of summer, 1 March the start of autumn and 1 June the start of winter. Is it possible that 1 September is just a nice convenient date to say that spring has sprung or is it something has been inculcated in us through the retail sector using the day as a good commercial opportunity? My personal viewpoint (and I stress that it is a personal view) is that we should surely be using the equinoxes and solstices to guide us regarding the seasons. So, based on this then, spring should really start on Sunday 23 September this year and summer begin on the day of the summer solstice etc. What are your thoughts on this? The arrival of spring has meant that the Ethnobotanical Garden in the Museum is starting to burst into life again with winter dormant bulbs starting to push their green shoots through the soil, the buds of new leaves are swelling the branches of trees and shrubs and there is (despite the wind) a wonderful sense of renewal all round. The garden is still a work in progress, and will hopefully be completed within the next couple of months, but it is still worth a visit now. At the same time we have on display a really beautiful selection of traditional Zulu maidens and married women s clothing in the Armoury. This display will not be a permanent display so make sure you don t miss it and visit us soon. The intricacy of the beadwork will astound and astonish you and give a lovely feel for the cultures of the past. LETTER Dearest Mountain Echo, Let me say at the start that we thoroughly enjoy your newspaper and grab a copy whenever possible. Thank you for all the years of interesting articles as well as smiles and keeping us in touch with places we love but cannot always inhabit. On the cover of the most recent issue which we came upon today (Volume 34 No 8) is a beautiful photograph of that stunning cat, the No article from the Museum would be complete at this time of year with a gentle reminder about the annual Himeville Museum Country Fair which will take place on Saturday 15 December. This Fair, which has become an integral part of community life, is the Museum s main fundraising event of the year and without the help and support of the community, both business and individuals, it will not yield the results we need to keep the museum in its position as one of the best Museums in the country not something we use as a slogan, but something that is said to us so often by our visitors. So, with this in mind, we ask once again, that people donate any unwanted items, clothing, plants and cakes and other edible goodies to us, but that businesses are able to support us through donations of new items suitable for raffling or selling or if they feel really generous, cash donations as well. We would like to give a thank you in advance to all those wonderful groups and individuals who have once again offered to help man the stalls on the day - without you the day would never be a success. Donations of any kind may be dropped off at the Museum or we can collect if you contact us on 033 702 1184 or 079 878 7405 (Louise) and we can arrange to collect. Bookings for stands are already starting to come in so we would also like to advise anyone wishing to sell their arts, crafts and other items at the Fair to book early. May the new season of burgeoning life give you a new spring in your step, joy in your heart and a general sense of good things happening. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 09h00 to 15h00 and on Sundays from 09h00 to 12h30. Closed Mondays. Open on most public holidays. Contact 033 702 1184 for further details and speak to Bongi or Louise. Serval. In reading the caption however we suspect that someone has been setting you up, or perhaps you were caught up in a mischievous mood? If it is Dr Collins being a gremlin he should be spanked! The quote from him is that it is Very exciting to actually see a cervix... well, actually a cervix is the lower part of the uterus in the human female reproductive system and is very much internal. Maybe it s because he is a vet that the sight of this part of a woman s anatomy would be exciting? But assuredly not anything like the beautiful serval. Don t malign the cat.best regards to you from Penelope Letley Boot + Saddle M.O.T.H. Invite you to join us for a Fun Bowls Day Sunday 14 October 2018 @ Underberg Bowling Club 9am Dress Casual or Fancy Dress (Flat Shoes MUST be worn) Team 4 to a Team (Only 1 Club Bowler allowed per Team) Cost R 150 per player (Includes Lunch, Teas and Snacks) Bacon & Egg Rolls will be on sale before the games begin Prizes for all Bowlers & Best Dressed Team Prize Contacts: Len 079 094 1029, Photo:Russell Pete 082 Suchet 441 1310 or Andy 072 947 5615

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 Brad Brider is the new chef at the Underberg Inn. Brad has loved cooking since he can remember when he was 6 years old (now 51). Only good reports have been heard about his cooking. GARDEN CLUB 17 OCTOBER INCREDIBLE EDIBLES. Gardening from FORK TO FORK. The Himeville/ Underberg Garden Club will be holding their OCTOBER meeting on WEDNES- DAY 17 OCTOBER at CHIKANKA, home of Anita and Tex Turton in Lund Street, Himeville. Follow the Garden Club signs from Arbuckle to the very end of Lund Street. The speaker will be DEE DE SOUSA from Colour Patch. Dee will speak on INCREDIBLE EDIBLES. Gardening from FORK TO FORK. After completing her Horticultural Diploma, she had work experience at Kirstenbosch, Karoo Botanical Gardens, the Lowveld Botanical Gardens, Pietermaritzburg Botanical Gardens, and then Dunrobin in Hillcrest. Come and be inspired, beyond your imagination, how gardening from Fork to Fork can revolutionize your life, not only in the garden, but in the kitchen and your dinner table too. The meeting starts promptly at 10am, so please come earlier and take time to walk around the beautiful garden creatively designed by the Turtons. All are very welcome. Visitors pay R25.00 Please bring your own chair and don t forget your hat! The Garden Club Committee looks forward to sharing this informative, sociable morning with everyone. Come and join us. ANC HARRY GWALA REGION STATEMENT ON LATEST ARRESTS AT HARRY GWALA AND Dr NKOSAZANE DLAMINI - ZUMA MUNICIPALITIES. The ANC Harry Gwala Region reiterates wish to commend the DPCI- Hawks on its work against corruption. We are encouraged by their work which resulted in arrests of more than fifteen (15) individuals and entities linked to both Harry Gwala and Dr Nkosazane Dlamini- Zuma municipalities. The accused appeared at Durban Commercial Crimes court on 11 September. The ANC REC collective will do everything in its powers to support law enforcement agencies on their efforts to root out fraud and corruption. Our election by branches two weeks ago in the regional conference which held at Peace Initiative Hall coincided with the first anniversary commemoration of the passing on of a giant of our movement, a martyr against corruption, Cde Sindiso Magaqa. In honour of him and many others (including comrades Khaya Thobela and Mduduzi Tshibase) who perished in political killings which once engulfed our region, we pledge fight corruption without fear and prejudice. The ANC Regional Executive Committee is determined to ensure that actions are taken against anyone involved in any wrongdoing and irrespective of their position in the movement and government. www.mountainecho.co.za mountainecho@telkomsa.net 0824938700 PAGE 7 NUDGRUB Underberg Inn Pub LOOK OUT FOR OUR OPEN MON - SAT 8am - 2.30pm & OPEN SIGN 5-7pm Breakfast all day including Eggs benedict Pub Lunches Burgers Toasted Sandwiches Salads, Pizzas, Grills and Pastas Smoked home made bacon and ribs Potato Wedges Bookings 081 438 3951 speak to your chef & Host Brad - book your function with us UNDERBERG PRIMARY SCHOOL TENNIS The UPS Tennis Team played against Kokstad Junior School on Tuesday 28th of August at the Himeville courts. They won by 41 games to 39. A lovely afternoon of tennis was enjoyed by all. Well done Underberg! From L R (back, standing) Robert van Dyk, Malibongwe Majozi, Siyanda Molefe, Philani Jili, Lucy Pooler. From L R (front, sitting) Scott Venniker, Ngcebo Mokoena, James Armstrong. Team members not in photo: Owami Clans and Madison Miller. Though we are very pleased with the latest developments but we would like to plead with General Zikhali and his team to speed up other cases of fraud and corruption that were reported to them a long time ago. We are sending a stern warning to municipal officials and politicians of our region to desist from stealing the future of our children through committing fraud and corruption. Issued by the African National Congress Harry Gwala. Cde Thabiso Zulu (ANC Regional Spokesperson) The Samango Dargle October slackpack 4-7 October Three-day round hike encompassing curated paths through one of the oldest and most well-protected nature conservancies in the Midlands. Nature-based eco-tourism is one of the principal aims of Spekboom Tours and 10% of all proceeds are donated to the Dargle Conservancy for their ongoing conservation projects. For more info please contact Julia: 076 819 0615 julia@spekboomtours.co.za Basotho Blankets COMMUNISM, CAPITALISM, SOCIALSIM,...CORRUPTIONISM? Spring Brings Changes Look NOW at our NEW Range LEATHER GOODS FOOTWEAR NEW MENS/LADIES BELTS BAGS - MENS/ LADIES WALLETS PURSES AT T NIGHT Darts ts Night Ever ery Tuesda uesday Fridays Happy Hour with Snacks & Lucky Dice RANDOM HAPPY HOURS DURING THE WEEK or Rent To Buy To look at our stock come to Underberg Auto Centre or go to our website. Speak to Denis Leppan or Tyrone Wood 083 788 7702 Himeville Airstrip & King Shaka Airport Transfers. We are in Underberg & Kloof THANKS FROM FAITHWAY COLLEGE We would like to take this opportunity to thank the following people / businesses for assisting Faithway with either their time, goods or services to the school. We would like to emphasise how very grateful we are for the assistance. Barry Woodroffe (Sani Logging);Clouds of Hope (Andrew Pitt); Felicity Champkins; Fezeka Gambushe (Municipality); Glen & Mandy Hall;Himeville Hotel (Louis De Jager); Janet Richards;Julie Wayne 062 684 2307 Leon 079 446 7326 Braby; Kobus van den Berg; Pierre Horn (Family Literacy Project); Rev Peterson; Sani Round Table (Grant Trollope);RPM (Rory Hardy); Rotary (Dale & Anthony Connelly; Sani Pass Hotel (Sefton Cramer & Shane Seegers); Shaun Rodway (Sani Logging);Spar (Sam & Cathy Knox / Nikki Marais / staff) ; Thabiso Mndaweni (Municipality); UPS (Mike Corlett); Zayne Botha (Power Services); Lastly but certainly not least A HUGE thank you to the Parents / SGB members / Staff who give up their weekends, early mornings and evenings to assist with fundraising. MALACHITE MANOR WISHES JUDY VAN JAARSVELD ALL THE BEST IN HER NEW VENTURE IN BOTSWANA AND THANKS HER FOR ALL HARD WORK IN OUR KITCHEN. WELCOME TO GAIL KIRCHNER OUR NEW CHEF 9 CLOCKTOWER CENTRE UNDERBERG

PAGE 8 www.mountainecho.co.za mountainecho@telkomsa.net 082 493 8700 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 C L A S S I F I E D S CLUB & SOCIETY Mzamo FOR SALE NOTICES Underberg Archery Club meets every Saturday at noon at Underberg Polo Grounds. MAKOTI SUPERIOR GOOSE DSTV DOWN DUVETS, PILLOWS AND Competition on second Sunday contact 082 DOWN PRODUCTS Installer 5680396 Available at 97A Main Street Howick. Sani Spoors Mountain Bike Time Trail and Phone Corrie on 0842951770 or 0333302551 072 872 9628 Trail Run on third Thursday of every month; THANKS Cost members free, non-members R20. Venue Kwafudumala Store Sani Spoors at the Duck and Do-little, The Williams family would like to express their sincere gratitude for all the messages, phone calls, e-mails,visits and especially your prayers and concern for Fred. There is power in prayer. Fred is doing very well. Many thanks to all in our local community, further afield and overseas. SOLI DEO GLORIA BRANDIS CONTRACTING HAVE MOVED Brandis Contracting have moved to the old Mica building, 65 Old Main Road. Telkom line TBA, please contact us via our cell phones for now: Brian 082 453 2775. Mike 082 321 7074. Nikki 071 687 1047. DR. LEON VAN SCHALKWYK I am back in Underberg in my rooms. Office hours 8am - 4pm same place, to help if I can. SANI ROUND TABLE DR. TELEPHONE LEON VAN SCHALKWYK DIRECTORY If you need to make any new entries or changes in the Sani Round Table Telephone Directory please email them to directoty@sani152.co.za DISCLAIMER This Newspaper is Published by the owner Eilan Donan Publishingcc T/A The Mountain Echo is printed by Rising Sun Printers, Chatsworth. All copy is accepted IN Good faith. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher, Paul Richard Welch. TRADING HOURS Mon: - Fri 9am - 4pm Sat:- 9am - 1pm DON S REPAIRS Workshop Mackenzie Street - Goxhill Road Himeville MAINTENANCE OF ALL MOTOR VEHICLES D O N B L A K E Y 033 7021110 or 7021835 or 0823421387 GIANT S CUP ANIMAL WELFARE We have many people to thank for donations, time and commitment. One of our local ladies when walking in car parks, glances down for stray coins and collects them, having recently donated a bottleful of coins. An ageing farmer is donating goods and furniture for which he has no further use. There are so many of you who regularly donate books, clothing and bric-a-brac to the Thrift Shop. The funds generated there are gradually accumulating so that when we are finally granted permission to use the Himeville kennels or have built our own, the money will be used to run the kennels, pay NUD Vets for services rendered, do outreach and education. Despite numerous emails we are still waiting for the green light from NDZ Municipality to use the kennels. Thank you to the Thrift Shop volunteers who give up their time to work there. We are always in need of volunteers, so please leave your names at the Shop if you can help, even if only for a few hours. Ideally we require a roster of regulars for each day of the week excluding Sundays, 3 hour shifts are ideal, plus a backup of volunteers to take up duties when the regulars have other commitments. We have recently received a donation of a carton full of tick and flea spot treatment which came all the way from England. Sincere thanks to the lady who made that possible. Kokstad SPCA has recently had a change in management and the person in charge is Chester, who is now manager, pound manager and inspector, a huge portfolio to fulfil! Jacob, who was our inspector at Sani SPCA, has moved from Kokstad to take up a post at Margate SPCA. We wish you well Jacob and will miss you. Thank you for travelling so willingly from Kokstad to Underberg to attend to our complaints. Only last week Jacob and assistant were in our district, armed with a net on a long pole to catch a couple of problem animals, one of them being a bitch that regularly produces a large litter of pups, this time 16! and a feral cat that produces kittens about 3 times a year. Neither was caught for sterilisation, so the breeding continues..one can understand a feral cat evading capture, but what awful trauma earlier in her life has driven that bitch to fear humans to such a degree? Education is such an important issue. Many adults and children are conditioned to fear dogs and cats. It begins at groundroots level; treat your pets kindly, feed and water them regularly, give them shelter and love and they will trust you and love you unconditionally in return. Obviously If you tell a big enough lie and tell it frequently enough, it will be believed. Adolf Hitler there are certain breeds of which to be wary and any dog displaying aggressive behaviour. This brings up the subject of open gates and walking dogs on leashes. Owners need to be responsible about keeping their gates closed. It is nerve-wracking and dangerous to be confronted with a dog/ dogs barrelling out at you from an open driveway whether you are on foot, riding a bicycle or innocently taking your own dog for a walk, securely on a leash. The onus is on the owner of the property to ensure his/her gate is securely closed after driving out. If the animal gets out, it becomes a problem for the community to find the owner. We have nowhere to house strays at this stage. Most conscientious pet owners are frantic if their pets go missing for even an hour or two. There have been other neglect issues of concern, namely dogs left alone on a property all week and owners only returning for weekends; people leaving the district and abandoning their pets without considering their fate; horses without adequate feed and shelter; the complaints go on and on. These are not unique to our district. There is a private welfare organisation in Kokstad called Paws and Peeps started by Judy Marshall-Smith. Her contact number is 0833904884.Paws and Peeps have done about 1000 sterilisations in a year and homed about 70 animals. She has an amazing team working. Drakensberg Garden s road; Refreshments available5:15pm Himeville Tennis Club Every saturday afternoon from 2pm. Contact Colin Roodt 033 7021202 *Country Womens Club: First Wednesday of the month @ 10am. 033 7011 741. *Friday Ladies Lunch Club: 11.45 on every second Friday of the month. Apologies to Sue Little telephone 082 2909 770 by wednesday noon prior to friday lunch meeting *Garden Club: Third Wednesday of every month - All welcome. *Moth Boot & Saddle Shellhole : meet at Banks Farm first Thursday 6.30pm Contact Len Wittstock 0790941029 *Himeville Museum: Open daily 9.00-3pm except Mondays are closed.sunday 9am- 12..30pm * Sani Wildlife Committee: meets 1st Thursday of month at 4.pm Himeville Hotel. *Underberg Bowling Club: Tabs-In starting time is 1.15pm. (13h15) All visiting bowlers and new bowlers are welcome every Wednesday and Saturday Underberg/ Himeville Trout Fishing Club Rod fees are R150.00 per rod per day per beat and can be bought at NUD Sports 033 7011096. Office open on weekends 8am - 10am otherwise call 0826363985 Sani Round Table Meets on the 1st Wednesday of every month at 7pm at U.F.A. Hall contact Grant Trollope 072 446 2554 15 Old Main Road Underberg South Coast Management Services t/a with her, does outreach into the community and achieves what GCAW hopes to achieve in the future. We look forward to seeing many of our locals and visitors at the forthcoming UFA Show at the end of Sepember.By Jane King CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN UNDERBERG OFFERING LOCAL, NATION TIONAL & INTERNATION TIONAL SERVICES VICES. WE ARE THE ONLY COURIER THAT DELIVERS & COLLECTS TWICE DAIL AILY TO AND FROM PIETERMARITZBUR URG WE ARE SERVICE PROVIDERS FOR NUMEROUS NATION TIONAL & INTERNATION TIONAL COURIERS WE COVER PIETERMARITZBUR URG, THE SOUTHERN DRAKENSBUR URG AND OUTLYING AREAS FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT US ON: 033-7011017/033-7011030 OR 0832875183 Email: spc@openweb.co.za/ info@sanipasscarriers.co.za

Tel : 033 7011058 Peter and Antony Mitchell Peter 082 454 0824. Antony 079 298 8354 www.aagas.co.za 2 Old Main Road Underberg Domestic & Commercial Gas Installations. Gas Geysers, Hobs and Stoves es. Repair pairs s and Maintenance. Gas Ref efills and Deliveries eries. Certif tifica icates of Compliance A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR Clients FOR THEIR SUPPORT NOW AVAILABLE AIRCON & REFRIGERATION SERVICES 12000 BTu Heat & Cooling Midwall R6999 Supplied & Installed T&C S APPLY CONGRATULA TULATIONS TIONS UNDERBERG Peter and Antony Mitchell. Best wishes on the opening of your new branch in Underberg. We are proud to partner with AA Gas in this exciting new venture. Both serving customers since 1981 Congratulations AA GAS UNDERBERG Tel : 033 7011058

PAGE 10 www.mountainecho.co.za mountainecho@telkomsa.net 082 493 8700 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 Farewell Charl & Eve Brummer. Hello to a Honeybadger in Himeville. Secretary Birds tease Cows. Once more we say our farewells to old residents of the Underberg Area with the imminent departure of Eve and Charl Brummer from Cobham where Charl has been the Conservation Manager for the Conservation Service and where he participated with the locals as Vice Chairman of the Pholela Biosphere Charl is in fact the longest serving Parks board employee for the whole Drakensberg area where he started working many years ago and served in every different section of the berg at one time or another. Charl was a ray of light in the gloom of officialdom where he was forthright and outspoken telling everyone from the lowest to the highest the way it was, loudly enough that they remembered what they had been told. Charl had many stories to tell and many people were only too pleased if he didn t tell them, he will be missed not only for the work he put in but for his quirky sense of humour He has led an interesting and exciting life mountaineering in many different countries, performing singular feats of solo climbing that have left other experienced climbers in shock. Charl is making the ultimate change from the berg to the coast but something tells me that we will be seeing him up here again in the future if only to get some good fresh berg air into his lungs once more. In the meantime we wish him and Eve every happiness in their new home from where we expect to hear some good fishy stories in due course. The reported sighting of a Honey Badger in the district was strange enough but now it has been reported that a badgers spoor has been found in some soft sand within a property inside the Himeville village. Camera traps have revealed a number of animals that were unexpected residents obviously encouraged to take up residence by the warmer weather we have experienced lately. Just what surprises may be in store for us in the near future I wonder. We often see Secretary birds striding across the open veld around us but just the other day I saw two down on the river lands where they were being seen off by a herd of cows who pursued them until they took off and flew across the river to get away. I cant say I have seen this sort of behavior before and there are many different birds that will molest cattle when they are sick or down for any reason, crows and ravens for example but they seem to be ignored by the rest of the herd. It is fascinating to watch secretary birds catch and deal with snakes. They perform just like matadors in the bull ring by baiting the snake with outstretched wings and then the moment it strikes they pounce on it and stomp it into submission before tearing it to pieces with their beaks. I was told by one man that he had seen a bird consume a live snake by literally pouring it down its throat whole but it must have been a non poisonous type of snake. By M Clark. BROWN HYENA IN OUR MOUNTAINS UNDERBERG 033 7011 198 Charl and Eve Brummer at a farewell hosted by the Honorary Officers at untainairs Clubhouse. They leave at the end of the month to live in Palm Beach near Port Edward Brown Hyena caught on a camera trap at night in the Drakensberg Gardens road area TWK - AGRICUL GRICULTURE LIMITED underberg@twkagri.com Tel: 033 7012229 Underberg - Swartberg - Cedarville - Ixopo - Kokstad - Howick Shed Staff: Mr. Shezi, Casual worker, Phillip Mndaweni, Cosmos Sosibo, Joseph Bengu, Moses Magoso, Cosmos Mbatha, Alphas Dlamini, and Sipho Magoso.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 www.mountainecho.co.za mountainecho@telkomsa.net 082 4938700 PAGE 11 UNDERBERG / HIMEVILLE COMMUNITY WATCH A reminder to everyone, is that we are entering into the most dangerous period of the fire season. Daily temperatures will increase, humidity levels will remain low which indicates that the Fire Danger Index (FDI) will on most days be in the high Yellow, Orange and possibly Red. The possibility of increased wind velocity at this time of year is highly likely. We hope that the rains will come early! I therefore request everyone to be extremely careful, report fires and be vigilant. No burning of timber slash or garden refuse until 1 st November. Anyone wanting to block burn, please contact Community Watch for the FDI together with having your request logged. We have kept a strict daily record of everyone s request to burn, together with those who have not bothered to phone in. This could count against them should they ever claim for fire damages. Those who want Working on Fire to spray bramble, please put in your requests early. Provided the applicant is a member of SBFPA, he/she must purchase the chemicals required and pay the transport cost. Non FPA members must pay for chemicals, transport, labour and food. The Working on Fire team has eight personnel trained (with certificates), plus equipment required for chemical spraying. District Crime. Some cases opened: Underberg Low cost Stabbed with a knife. A person fell off a vehicle and died. Delivery vehicle at Happy Store attacked and cash stolen. 11 cases possession of Dagga. Two shoplifting cases at Spar. Underberg Low Cost clothing, groceries and cash stolen. Low cost Underberg Laptop stolen. Underberg Low cost Assault. Expensive watch stolen Bushmans Nek. Himeville 2 Nguni calves stolen. Stoffelton 27 cattle stolen. Underberg bicycle stolen. Underberg Low Cost person stabbed. Mqatsheni Location clothing, shoes, stove and electrical appliances stolen. Brotheni store broken into and cash taken. From the crime stats. It is obvious that theft, assault and theft of livestock takes place amongst and between our local pops. How does one manage this with unemployment so high i.e. So many people without work or any income. The way things are going or being proposed for the country, will only exacerbate the problem. Otherwise, the district remains quiet, but this does not mean that everyone can relax. Be alert, report suspicious activity and remember that security starts at home. Community Watch Licence Plate Recognition (LPR) Cameras. Total number of vehicles recorded on our cameras for August: 684,534. The total number of vehicles recorded month to month does not vary by much. The majority of traffic is on the R617. These statistics will be sent to Dept. of Transport as one wonders whether they have any idea of the volumn of traffic on the R617. Community Watch is experiencing problems with people claiming that they are not receiving information from us, period! We have had a few members in the office to check that the information re. cell phone numbers, Email address etc. is correct, because they have not received messages sent. On checking the information, it turns out that they have received the information but not read it. I have personally had people who only received a voice message a week later!! We also have people who do not want to receive messages about road conditions i.e. livestock, accidents, road closures, requests for lifts from one place to another etc. etc. Either everyone receives these messages or none at all. We cannot split up our messages into who wants what. Big problem is WhatsApp. Until about 18 months ago, messages (information) went out on Email and SMS and UFA Radio. No problems. SMS became too expensive, but is far more reliable than WhatsApp. We have people who have resigned as members due them claiming that they do not receive information. Why I ask, do they not pick up a phone and check that their contact information we have is correct. My crystal UNDERBERG FARMERS ASSOCIATION & FUTURE FARMERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE Simo is 24 years old and grew up in the Loteni. Simo lost both his parents. His mother when he was 4 years and his father when he was 10 years old. He was brought up by his grandparents who were farm workers. He was educated at Cabanga Primary school and completed his matric at Dumabezwe High School near Donnybrook in 2013. In 2014 Simo worked as a firefighter in the Drakensberg Garden Nature Conservation Park. He then did volunteer work in his community helping the elderly get their medication from the clinics. Simo arrived at Struan Farm in December 2014 to visit his uncle who worked as a tractor driver. When I asked him what he wanted to do he said he would like to do Marine Logistics. We enquired through some shipping companies but they had no vacancies. I asked him if he would be interested in farming and explained to him the opportunities which were available through the Future Farmers programme. Simo really applied himself and started as a general worker in the dairy. He was keen to learn and willing to do all the tasks such as milking, herding and calf rearing. Over the last few years Simo completed an Artificial inseminators course, First Aid course as well as courses on animal health. He also obtained his driver s licence. After serving an apprentice period we applied through Future Farmers to give him the opportunity to travel and work overseas. After much admin work and help from Future Farmers and their team Simo was granted a USA visa and was offered a 1-year internship in the USA. Simo left for the USA on the 9 th August. I dropped Simo off at King Shaka airport and I think I was just as nervous as he was. Simo had never been to an airport before and was overawed as to the size of King Shaka airport. Simo flew from Durban to Johannesburg then onto London, then to Los Angeles then to Fresno, California. There were 5 hour stopovers in London and Los Angeles. Daunting for seasoned travellers let alone someone who had never flown before and was by himself. I spoke with him after he arrived at the farm. He was very tired and when I asked if he had slept on the aeroplane he said he had been too scared to sleep but had enjoyed the experience. They are 9 hours behind us. Simo Mofukeng - A great opportunity. Simo will be working on La Salle Dairy which is in central California. They milk 660 cows 3 times a day and average 40 litres per cow per day. His working hours will be 53 hours a week and 1 day off. He will share a house with other interns from Philippines, Uganda, Brazil and India. The nearest small town is Firebaugh (9.6km away) and nearest city Fresno (56km away). A bit of a weather shock as they are 38 degrees at the moment. This is a great opportunity for a youngster from the rural area to gain experience in dairy and I am sure that when he returns he will be an asset to whoever employs him and hopefully he can one day run a dairy farm on his own. We really look forward to Simo sharing his experiences with us. Thanks, must go to Judy Stuart and the Future Farmers staff who go out of their way in assisting these chaps. The Underberg Farmers Association has been a supporter of this programme.by Mike Willment Struan Farms FUTURE FARMERS We would like to thank Mike for his generosity. He has made it possible for Simo to reach his dream. He has played a huge role in his future. Without farmers of this caliber, Future Farmers could not exist. The very first Future Farmer to complete an internship in the USA was also from Underberg. His name is Mzwandile Duma, and yesterday he told me that he intends to sponsor an overseas intern. His father was a petrol pump attendant. Mzwandile was sponsored by a farmer from the Eastern Cape. Our organization struggles for funding and we strive constantly to be sustainable. With this attitude from our young Future Farmers, we will survive to serve many more talented a passionate young people. I always ask them to deliver more than is expected. Both of these young men, from impoverished rural communities have done just this. We are very grateful to the Underberg Farmers Association has been sponsoring two internships every year to La Salle. They are young South Africans. We can all be proud of them! By Judy Stuart (Future Farmers Foundation) Cell. 0835550082 or Office. 033 3304322 Simo will be working on La Salle Dairy which is in central California UNDERBERG VETERINAR ARY SURGER GERY Tel: 033-7011092 (all hours) Stockists of a carefully selected range of LIVESTOCK HEALTH PRODUCTS Suited for local conditions At excellent prices with professional advice 24 HOUR CONTROL ROOM NUMBER 033-7012235 DR NKOSAZANA DLAMINI- ZUMA LOCAL MUNICIPALITY NOTICE TO CONSUMERS Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma Local Municipality apologises for the delays with the posting of July 2018 Debtors Statement due to the technical issues. We apologise for any inconveniences caused due to the delays. No penalties will be charged on the affected months. We are encouraging our customers to continue paying for their account using the old rating while waiting for statements based on the new tariffs for 2018/2019. Consumers can enquire in For more information, you may contact: Siphosiphelele Manyathi, tel: (039) MR N.C. VEZI: MUNICIPAL MANAGER www.thecandocompany.co.za 42179KZN ball does not function, so how do we know? There are so many different WhatsApp groups that have divided our district into compartments. The district is no longer one community working together, which is sad. How to get this back together? Medical Response. ER24 Ambulance Service seems to have fallen by the wayside. A new plan is being looked into. Hopefully something positive will come to light, sooner rather than later. Community Watch 24hour Emergency contact numbers: 033-7021114/7; 7021143: Fax: 033-7021821. Email: ops@com-watch.co.za Let us work together in fighting crime Masibuyisane Ilwe Nobulelesi By John Pearce SEPTEMBER 2018 U.F.F.A.CA.A.CATTLE STOCK SALE STATS TS QTY SUPPLIED 810 QTY SOLD 809 PERCENTAGE SOLD 99% MAX PRICE R19400.00 MIN PRICE R3000.00 AVE PRICE R9798.00 www.ayandambanga.co.za Contact Scott Williams on 082 433 3506 or 033 7011 438

PAGE 12 www.mountainecho.co.za 082 493 8700 mountainecho@telkomsa.net SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 UNDERBERG underberg@pamgolding.co.za Angela Walker 082 772 8984 Paula Bullimore 079 491 0101 Sue Preston 084 880 8701 Chrissie v.d. Walt 084 869 7477 Office 033 7011 563 SIMPLEX IN SMALL COMPLEX R850 000 Looking for peaceful and relaxed surrounds in a small Sectional Title complex? This may just be what you are looking for. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, o/p living area/kitchen. Single garage Ref: 1UB1374134 UNDERBERG: R 1 250 000 Bedrooms: 3 / Bathrooms: 2 / Garages:2 Large family home with plenty of space and a country feel. Separate one-bedroom self-contained cottage for extra income. Ref: 1UB1373261 UNDERBERG: R925 000 Bedrooms: 3 / Bathrooms: 2 / Garages: 0 Geared for relaxation and weekend getaways. Holiday home with views towards Rhino. A pictureperfect setting, ideal for the outdoor person. TRANQUIL FARM AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS R1.25M Low Maintenance 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with spacious open plan living area, gourmet kitchen and single garage. Separate garden cottage with carport. Ref: 1UB1370355 UNDERBERG: R 9 500 000 Bedrooms: 29 / Bathrooms: 18 14 self-catering log cabins in park-like surroundings. Eland Valley is the ideal getaway for the whole family, fishermen and nature lovers. Ref: 1UB1369905 UNDERBERG: R 775 000 Bedrooms: 4 / Bathrooms: 1 / Garages: 2 This solidly built home is situated in a magical, flower-filled garden with large established trees full of wild birds and will appeal to the keen gardener. PEACEFUL AND PRIVATE R1.15M Cherished home in a pretty garden in excellent position with mountain views. Main house has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 lounges, dining room and kitchen. Guest cottage has 1 bedroom en suite. Ref: 1UB1378232 HIMEVILLE: R1 600 000 Bedrooms: 3 / Bathrooms: 2 / Garage: 1 A characterful home and lovely country garden with gorgeous trees and abundant roses. Ref: 1UB1368440 UNDERBERG: R1 800 000 Bedrooms: 5 / Bathrooms: 5 This charming property, currently run as a B&B, offers an ideal country home and business in one. SMALL WORKING FARM Reduced to R3.55M This 94 ha farm is steeped in history and this home was once the very first police station in the area. The newly renovated farmhouse oodles character. Second recently built house. Stunning mountain views. Good grazing and some arable land. Ref: 1UB1365762 HIMEVILLE: R1 265 000 Bedrooms: 3 / Bathrooms: 2 / Garages: 1 Uninterrupted views from the open verandah, overlooking the Himeville Nature Reserve, farmlands and mountains. En-route to the famous Sani Pass. One-bedroom cottage. RENTAL Rentals: We have several properties to let. We are currently looking for large houses to lease. Monthly management includes inspections where required, reading electricity and water meters for correct billing. Please contact us with any enquiries. THE SKY IS YOUR LIMIT!! R2.9M This 7ha magnificent property which is on the village boundary has Spectacular Mountain Views and numerous sites to build your dream home. Zoned Agricultural. The Pine Plantation is ready for harvesting and will generate an income. OFFICE: 033 7011359 Sue Acutt 082 457 5535 Kathy Abbett 082 925 7983 Please contact our Rental Agent Anja Pienaar www.acutts.co.za underberg@acutts.co.za NHBRC REGISTERED BUILDER www.builderinunderberg.co.za 35 Years Trading Call 061 5239762 www.ppproperties.co.za info@ppproperties.co.za Tel: 033-7011777 083 305 3009 - Peta 102Ha smallholding, 30 Ha arable, two homesteads, dam, EXCELLENT position. Offers on R3,5m People are your most valuable asset. Only people can be made to appreciate in value. Brian Tracy