The Midlands

HERALD Number 197 • Friday 27th July 2007

Men’s Lizzard
fleece from
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ladies and men from
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Tel. 033-330 6000 • Fax: 033-330 6950 • P.O. Box 1500, Howick, 3290
e-Mail: mherald@mweb.co.za • Proprietor and editor: Russell Barnes

PROPERTY PROFILE
— Tim Lindsay-White —

The uMngeni Property Market

The common concern of property investors
in uMngeni at present is how several significant
factors seem to have ganged up against us on
top of an already slowing market.
Mismanagement of our property rates for the
2007/2008 year, as of 1 July, caused consider-

Leaf alone able anguish and could have resulted in lasting

damage to our property market and local
economy if left unchecked. In any event, it has
resulted in uMngeni being used as an unenvi-
able model by other municipalities on how not
to apply the new Municipal Property Rates Act.
Above: Two weeks ago residents of the town placed placards on a number of trees around the CBD protesting against the recent felling of trees, as seen in this
Prospective purchasers had the choice to buy
picture. But The Herald understands that these jacarandas next to the municipal buildings in Dicks Street are the next to go. A fax seeking clarification from the
municipal manager sent on Tuesday received no reply.
in Pietermaritzburg at a third of the rates in
uMngeni, inevitably creating an adverse distor-
tion in our market, equivalent to abruptly yank-

Sunfield foils scam Official enquiry into ing the handbrake on our local market in the
middle of the N3.
The new National Credit Act, although likely

uMngeni’s affairs
Whilst several scams have been reported in the media recently,
invoking the names of senior political officials, in particular the
office of the premier, S’bu Ndebele, Howick was subject to its own
drama two weeks ago.
Numerous taxi owners were convinced to part with tens of thou-
sands of rands each to provide services on contracts that failed to
materialise by a man impersonating an official of the premier’s of-
fice.
The timely intervention of Sunfield Home’s general manager,
Leanne Viljoen, and the ward 5 councillor, Tim Lindsay-White,
resulted in the arrest of a man and his being charged with several
counts of fraud.
The area concerned stretches from Durban to Estcourt, and po
Continued on page 2
An official investigation has begun into the affairs of uMngeni
Municipality.
The minister of Local Government, Housing and Traditional Af-
fairs, Mike Mabuyakhulu, has authorised an enquiry in terms of
Section 106 of the Local Government Municipal Systems Act, no.
32 of 2000, which states that if an MEC has reason to believe that a
municipality in the province cannot and does not fulfil a statutory
obligation binding on that municipality, or that maladministration,
fraud, corruption or any other serious malpractice has occurred or
is occurring, the MEC must if he considers it necessary designate a
Continued on page 2
to remove inefficiency from the bond market by
preventing artificial demand and possible default,
has pulled up our market’s handbrake further by
limiting bonds to disposal income and not sim-
ply a percentage of gross income.
Most recently we have seen the prime bond
rate rise half a percent to 13%, with the pros-
pect of another possible rise to 13,5% at the next
policy meeting in August.
In case that wasn’t enough, the civil servants
strike brought the Deeds Registry to a standstill!
And yet still property has remained one of
the soundest investments!
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Page 2 — 27th July 2007 The Midlands Herald

Continued from page 1

From the Chamber — Council Matters Sunfield

Council Comment foils scam
The struggle
uMngeni di- Members of the public are warned that

vided! continues! there have been several instances of cons con-

The unfortunate autocratic manage-
ment style of the uMngeni administra-
tion has divided uMngeni. It has al-
ienated the ratepayer, both urban and
rural.
As a result, the municipality’s man- Clr Tim Lindsay-White
agement does not have the confidence
of those who are expected to pay their
salaries, and they will not have their respect until meaningful public con-
sultation, transparency and accountability are honoured.
As long as mere lip-service is paid to the mission statement of commu-
nity participation the divide between the administration and its ratepayers
will grow.
We are repeatedly told that letters to the municipality go unanswered,
and that Ward Committee needs are not replied to — let alone addressed
— a year into the current term of office, whilst not even in council is there
reciprocal healthy debate.
Were the views of residents respectfully considered before erection of
metro-billboards at critical intersections in Howick and Hilton destroying
the ambience of our villages whilst promoting conglomerate business at
the expense of the local economy?
Were interested and affected members of the public given the opportu-
nity to voice their disquiet before establishment of a waste industry along-
side businesses at the gorge edge, disregarding legislation and due proc-
ess?
Were residents of Howick consulted or even informed before eviscera-
tion of our leafy tree-lined Main Street?
Was due consideration given to the impact on our community and local
economy when attempts were made to bully the ratepayer into submission
over exorbitant rates increases?
Is the community ever asked how they would rate general management
in respect of performance bonuses?
Has management ever been transparent with the public about how much
they are being paid?
What has happened to the reportback concerning the plight of the mayor
having been forced to leave his home, under body guard paid for by the
ratepayer?
Where were the mayor and municipal manager when the community
needed them during the terrifying fires of 25 June that devastated much of
the municipality, and the bleak aftermath?
Are we to believe that a political party’s strategy policy conference in
Gauteng was more important?
Is the municipality living on borrowed money?
Is 35% loss of water and electricity acceptable?
Is almost R100 million outstanding debt, much of it over five months
due, reasonable?
Who’s listening to the frustrations of our Hilton residents when they
have to cart their refuse halfway across the municipality?
Are residents up the Currys Post Road going to be heard when they
protest against the establishment of a crematorium on the hill alongside
the dump above them?
You can contact Tim on 083 379 8051.
uMngeni Municipality finds it-
self between a rock and a hard
place.
Unfortunately (for itself) it is
part of a three-tier structure Editor Russell Barnes
whereby it finds itself answerable
to provincial government, based in Pietermaritzburg, which in turn
is answerable to our national government.
And unfortunately (for itself) our national government subscribes
to policies that recognise the rule of law, freedom of the press, com-
munity participation, etc.
Not great news for a self-constituted autocracy.
As the general gist of this week’s edition clearly shows, the mu-
nicipal management and its ANC councillor allies are trusting that
they can continue to get along with their masters in Pretoria —
mayor Edward Dladla and municipal manager Dumisani Vilakazi
even attended the recent ANC strategic conference there — while
snubbing their noses at their laws.
Our page 1 report tells that their provincial overlords, having
carefully looked into, for their credibility, concerns by the public
about possible corruption, have this week instituted a forensic audit
into some of their activities.
In return, Mr Vilakazi seems intent on a witch-hunt to intimidate
possible whistle blowers, and this is not surprising.
He is used to doing just as he pleases.
The DA have over the past two years made nearly a dozen appeals
to Province regarding items of information that the municipality
refuses to disclose.
Despite support for their applications from the Freedom of Ac-
cess to Information Act, Province has yet to look into any of the
matters.
This of course tells Vilakazi that he can get away with hobnob-
bing with Pretoria, or with anyone, but without listening to what
they say.
On another tack, it is interesting how quickly some people forget
their recent past.
Remember the old days of the struggle against an autocratic re-
gime? Some people have already forgotten that they are only where
they are because of democracy.
Earlier this month The Her-
ald for the first time put post- tion toward those responsible for calling his
ers up around the town adver-
tising its stories in the most re-
cent edition.
Over the next few weeks,
four of them were torn down
and destroyed; not surprisingly
these were all the ones that ad- of reference.
cerning prospective tenders and are advised
to seek official confirmation directly from
the departments concerned before entering
into any agreements.
Gratitude also goes to the various inves-
tigating departments.
There have been two other instances of
similar scams reported in the media in the
past few days.
Continued from page 1
Official
enquiry into
uMngeni’s affairs
person or persons to investigate the matter.
In a letter, the minister advised that his
concerns related to allegations and support-
ing documentation as to possible
maladministration, fraud and corrupt prac-
tices occurring within the uMngeni Munici-
pality.
He stated that he as minister and his depart-
ment would continue to make every effort
to ensure that the municipality implements
effective, efficient, transparent and account-
able management and internal control sys-
tems in the interest of transparency and ac-
countability in government.
Vilakazi wants enquiry into enquiry
However, municipal manager Dumisani
Vilakazi has called for an enquiry into the
minister’s forensic investigation.
Speaking during an item tabled concern-
ing the matter at the July meeting of Coun-
cil on Wednesday, he said that he wanted to
see the information that had been supplied
to the minister and threatened his own ac-
administration into question.
According to a report in Wednesday’s
Witness, Lennox Mabaso, spokesman for Mr
Mabuyakhulu, confirmed that a forensic in-
vestigation was under way at the municipal-
ity but refused to divulge details of its terms

Classified ads vertised our “millionaire mu-

nicipal manager” article.
That story itself has had a
widespread effect. Picked up
and run by the Witness it found
On Tuesday Gauteng-registered vehicles
arrived at the municipal offices, from a
Gauteng-based firm of auditors, Ubuntu
Forensics.
“Sources in the town hall say that there
its way into The Sunday Trib- was a lot of unhappiness at the sudden ar-
Above: One of The Midlands Herald’s une, The Mercury — and even rival of the investigators,” the page 1 article
“millionaire” posters this month to Sky News! said. “Some felt they should have been in-
Antiques For Hire Kennels attached to the bars of a Howick shop.
However, the national gov- formed by the Local Government Department
ernment subscribes in principle to democracy, a free press and the that the probe was to take place.”
Bomag rollers, c/mixers, and Cattery. Phone 033-
Wanted: generators, ladders, 343 3492. participation of the community.
And so the cabal in Howick finds itself between a rock and a hard
uMngeni councillors were informed about
Antique Furniture, drills, angle-grinders, TC the investigation at their full council meet-
Silver, English Tea lawn-mowers, water place. The struggle ing yesterday afternoon.
Sets, Books, Stamps, pumps etc for hire. 033- Dargle Dale Kennels and
continues. Sources present said some ANC council-
Wine, Jewellery,
Figurines, or anything
3305965/082-922 3735.
TC
Cattery. Boarding,
grooming and clipping. MIDLANDS lors blamed their
collectable! Heated kennels. 033- PLANT HIRE counterparts in the
330 6035. For all your small plant hire requirements
We buy and sell — Call Internet TC
Democratic Alliance
Pat or Ross Cannon including: for the investigation,
033-342 3870/3 NetFocus • Trailer •Concrete Mixers accusing them of
Internet • Bomags • Power Tools
service-provider Thatching • Mobile Generator/ • Water Pumps
sending information
Carpet Care Tel. 330 3543. to the MEC’s office
TC Country Craft That-
welder • Breakers Cawood Accounting in an attempt to dis-
We will happily deliver anywhere you require
Carpet Care — prompt,
professional cleaning of
ching, established 1974.
Big on workman-ship, We also service and repair small engines Solutions cc credit their adminis-
tration of the mu-
carpets and upholstery. Kennels moderate on price. Tel/
Free quotes. 033- fax 036-438 6243, Tel. 033-330 5965 60 Main Street, 41 Bell Street, Howick nicipality.
330 2625. Hilton Boarding Kennels Anthony Carte. Cell. 082-922 3735 Howick, 3290. Tel 033-330 8116 • 330 5546
The Midlands Page 3 — 27th July 2007
Herald

The big sleepover Side by side

Below: Two Mercedes Benz’s — the mayoral vehicle at left for use of uMngeni mayor Edward Dladla, and the personal vehicle of municipal
Local delegates enjoy stayover at manager Dumisani Vilakazi (NR 7405), in their parking bays at the municipal offices this week.

local hotel — at ratepayers’ expense

Delegates to a youth summit at the Fern Hill Hotel in June who
live in Howick or its immediate surrounds stayed overnight at the
hotel — at ratepayers’ expense.
The event took place on the weekend of 14th and 15th June.
The weekend is said to have been put together by general man-
ager: operations, Mbali Myeni, and her PA, Cindy Manyoni.
According to information received, uMngeni Municipality booked
out the entire hotel of 27 rooms for municipal officials as well as
144 places at Midmar Dam for the youth.
At the evening “cocktail braai” liquor was in plentiful supply.
Those local residents said to have stayed over at the hotel include
the mayor Edward Dladla, Cindy Manyoni, two committee clerks,
and youth from Mphophomeni.
Those that stayed at Midmar include municipal manager Dumisani
Vilikazi, his deputy Mbali Myeni, a ward councillor from Lidgetton
by name of Shabalala, the youth desk officer Biyela Sibiya and hous-
ing officer, Peter Zondi.
A rough estimation of cost to the ratepayer would be in the re-
gion of about R250 000 to R300 000 — for an event that was never
brought before Council for its approval.
The planned event was advertised twice in The Witness and in
The Mercury at an estimated cost of about R2 400 per advertise-
ment, although written at the bottom of each was “by invitation
only”.
It had been announced at a Council meeting that ward councillors
had been told to invite 10 youth from each of the 11 wards in total
and submit the names to the municipality.
Councillors were invited to attend the summit but not all were
informed of the planned sleep-over.
Two weeks ago the MEC for Local Government and Housing
chastised another kwaZulu-Natal municipality for organising a simi-
lar event without council approval yet at ratepayers’ expense.

Speaker earns R16 600,

owns low-cost house We have millions of unclaimed shares.
At the current share price, that’s a lot
Left: Surya Pillay
of money that could be yours.

Above: the low-cost house at Howick Extension 33 low-cost housing project in

Howick West owned by Moonsamy and Surya — who earns R16 600 p.m. — Pillay.

uMngeni Municipality councillor, Surya Pillay, owns a low-cost

house in Howick, despite earning a salary from the municipality —
11 times more than the qualifying amount.
Houses in low-cost schemes are intended for those in need, and
at present the maximum household income that qualifies for a low-
cost house is R3 500 a month. In order to qualify for the maximum
subsidy of R26 937, which the Speaker and her husband Moonsamy
have received, the household monthly income may not be more than
R1 500.
Her sales agreement for the house was signed on 30th January
2005, when her salary alone as an ordinary councillor was R5 250
per month. On 17th April 2007, Mrs Pillay and her husband took
transfer of house 2312 in the Howick Extension 33 low cost housing
project under title deed T16612/2007. When they took transfer, her
Sanlam CI0104AM0709SDE

Thousands of people are entitled to shares in Sanlam. They simply

salary as Speaker was R16 600 a month.
Contacted by The Herald, she denied owning a low-cost house,
and said she was sick of the DA and their criticisms. She did not
respond when asked whether her husband owned the house, but said
that she lives with her pensioner mother.
The Herald reporter must tell his sources that she said they must
haven’t claimed them yet. If you had a Sanlam policy between 31 March and
15 October 1998, you might qualify for free Sanlam shares. Take your green
ID book to the Sanlam kiosk inside Shoprite, 25 Bell Street, Howick, between
30 July – 8 August to find out how much your portion is worth. Or,
call 0860 687 878. Sanlam. We’re thinking ahead. Are you?
Average Sanlam share price for January to March 2007 based on daily closing price: R19.29

“go fly a kite”.

Page 4 — 27th July 2007
Police to comment following
spate of crime in Howick area
Following a spate of criminal activity in
the Howick area two weeks ago, repre-
sentatives from the Midlands Crisis and
Trauma Centre and ward councillor Tim
Lindsay-White met last week and had a pro-
ductive and positive discussion with the sta-
tion commander of Howick SAPS, Senior
Farmers unhappy with MM’s
approach to fire disaster
The chairman of the Howick & District
Landowners Association, Bobby Hoole, has
expressed farmers’ unhappiness with the
municipality’s attitude towards their role in
the recent fire disaster.
After the fire Mr Hoole wrote to munici-
pal manager Dumisani Vilakazi to attempt
to understand their responsibility regarding
fighting fires and their implementing a dis-
aster management plan, if there was one.
He was subsequently invited to address
the Manco meeting on 19th July, and attended
with Jakes Oosthuizen, a seasoned fire cam-
paigner who had been instrumental in the
committee that drafted the Veld and Forest
Fire Act 101 (1998).
In the meeting Mr Oosthuizen highlighted
his concern that the municipality is still not
a member of the Lions River Fire Protec-
tion Association, despite the fact that the Act
requires that it join.
Mr Vilakazi replied, he said, that the func-
tion of fire-fighting was not the municipali-
ty’s responsibility as there are four tiers of
government, including the district munici-
pality too.
Mr Hoole told him he was passing the
buck as uMngeni may fund the vehicles and
Letters to the Editor • Letters to the Editor • Letters to the Editor • Letters to the Editor • Letters to the Editor • Letters to the Editor • Letters to the Editor • Letters to
Quarterly Report of the
Chief Financial Officer,
uMngeni Municipality
Dear Sir,
The Quarterly report for June 2007 just
received reveals the following:- Salary and
Wages Vote Overspent (R2 970 219), Sav-
ings Remuneration of Councillors
R1 165 162, Interest external loans
R1 759 991, Income under-recovered for
Property Rates R17 027 916, user charges
for services R2 358 456 and Income over-
recoveries for Grants and subsidies R1 155
599.
There are numerous other under- and over-
recoveries but insufficient to meet the defi-
cit.
The rates problem is attributed to farm-
ers.
The Debtor’s analysis reveals the total
outstanding as at 30 June 2007 as
R98 611 711.08 of which R80 993 603.29 is
150 days or more. Rates debtors are reflected
as R48 375 816.74 and water debtors as
R25 483 696.52.
Perhaps the M.E.C. Finance could com-
ment hereon together with the Portfolio
Committee on Finance.
The now-infamous uMngeni budget
Nalini Naidoo’s article on 20 July, headed
“uMngeni Budget under fire”, is pertinent.
Notwithstanding that “complex” ratepay-
Superintendent Robert Gwala and his CID
head, Captain Naidoo.
It is understood that arrests were made
following the incidents, the situation is be-
ing followed up, preventive measures being
put in place, and that a full joint press re-
lease is to be issued shortly.
staff that are based in Dicks Street, but
uMngeni naturally controls the operations.
When he requested details of uMngeni’s
disaster management planning, Mr Vilakazi
said that this was in the process of being
formed and nothing was in place yet.
He then referred him to the
uMgungundlovu District Council, which
does have a disaster management plan.
When Mr Hoole asked him if he could
send his own report of the meeting to coun-
cillors so that they can consider it and have
firsthand knowledge of his concerns during
and after the fire, Mr Vilakazi said he would
submit his own report.
Mr Hoole then reminded him that at the
beginning of the meeting Mr Vilakazi had
said that the three components of local gov-
ernment — viz. councillors, the administra-
tion (municipality) and the community —
functioning together meant success.
“Now that I have requested my report to
be sent through based on our discussion you
refuse to send it through,” Mr Hoole pointed
Continued on page 8
ers and the Concerned Ratepayers Group
made available substantial documentation to
MPPs Scott and Tarr reflecting the poor per-
formance of uMngeni Municipality the
MPPs were quoted in subsequent articles
stating that the municipality’s record was
above reproach.
Now it would seem that the “unholy Al-
liance” of Mayor and Manager need to be
recalled to explain subsequent developments.
It is incongruous that the performance
bonus percentage is reflected as consider-
ably higher than that previously awarded to
Dr. Michael Sutcliffe (75%) by eThekwini.
Any percentage above that is beyond the
pale. Only misdirected political support
could reflect the uMngeni figure.
Scott states that there is legislation in the
pipeline from National Government to limit
the capacity of municipalities to determine
rates randage.
In fact this legislation already exists.
Section 20 of the PRA provides that the
Minister (DPLG) may proclaim a percent-
age limitation on rate randage increases.
This year of course the rate randage de-
creased because of the revaluation and such
power was of course ineffective.
More seriously, DPLG have stated in
correspondence that it is not obligatory for
the Minister to issue a Proclamation.
Can ratepayers therefore expect another
unbridled increase in 2008/2009 ?
A senior Parliamentarian has stated that
Ethics and business —
The real purpose of business
Dr Martin Prozesky was the uMngeni
Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s guest
speaker at its AGM at the Fern Hill Hotel
on 20th June.
Dr Prozesky is director of the Department
of Ethics of the Unilever Centre at the Uni-
versity of KwaZulu-Natal in
Pietermaritzburg, which was set up ten years
ago and still today is generously funded by
Unilever.
Dr Prozesky, who works in the area of
applied ethics, asked his audience: “What is
ethics?”
In reply, he
said, “It is not
about what you
shouldn’t do, but
about success.”
People always
seek success and
a sense of well-
being — “last-
ing wellbeing,
especially that
Above: Dr Martin which cannot be
Prozesky. taken away from
you.”
Wellbeing can be viewed in terms of
health, security, friendship, respect and a
feeling of happiness.
He pointed out that every single culture
in the world has the same basic core, and
then outlined three points concerning the
vital tie between ethics and business.
Firstly, ethics needs successful business.
The real purpose of business is not to
make money but to remain in business.
Indeed, ethics needs business that is prof-
itable and lastingly so.
What are we hearing — in terms of ethics
— from people in successful business?
Secondly, why is it that business needs
ethics?
“Ethics” is the key to success in busi-
ness, its magic word since customers, cli-
the above is not in the spirit of the legisla-
tion.
With the substantial adverse criticism car-
ried in the article, M.E.C. Zweli Mkize will
be hard pressed to explain his Department’s
failure to prevent the present situation de-
veloping as the Minister of finance has del-
Recycle
egated centre
this function disregard
to him.
of procedure
Claude and public
Edwards, Concerned Ratepayers/
Residents
Sir, Group, Howick
In response to the letter by uMngeni
Municipal Manager F D Vilakazi in respect
of the Recycle Center blunder “The Facts “
published in Village Talk, 4 July 2007.
Mr Vilakazi insinuates in his letter that
proper authority was obtained. He is called
upon to prove his statements.
Evidence to the contrary suggests that
neither the Planning Department nor the
Planning Committee were consulted, nor
plans approved by the Building Inspectorate
at that time.
As a consequence, due process of the ad-
ministration itself was not followed. Now
court action is in progress one senses the
Municipal Manager is simply attempting to
legitimize these actions after the fact with-
out transparency or accountability and hence
without due regard to our country’s laws,
our municipality’s by-laws, and the public.
Opportunities to resolve this matter ami-
cably prior to the High Court enforcing such
action were ignored to the ratepayers and
interested and affected parties’ detriment.
The Midlands Herald
ents and other businesses all conduct trans-
actions with those they trust.
Are buyers happy with the service? What
is the truth of customer interest (i.e. what
does market research reveal)?
To get the product to be the best it can be,
one needs the best possible people in the
business, and, for example, in the workplace
itself, a heavy-handed leader will get com-
pliance but not commitment.
Thirdly, what are the steps one can take
to implement in business?
a) Leadership: The leader is very visible and
if he or she is not deeply trustworthy, that
person will not obtain the best standard of
work from staff;
b) Need for education: Ethics is partly about
enhancing the goodness in us and although
education works slowly, there are lasting
horizons. (One can make an impression in
20 minutes in teaching ethics, but much more
time is needed);
c) Resources: It needs active, visible sup-
port from the higher echelon and includes
money.
In conclusion he said that the triple bot-
tom-line concept of ethics in business con-
sists of the financial aspect, one’s environ-
ment and the need for a social responsibil-
ity.
This last point is the real one — a social
responsibility of respect, justice, fairness,
and putting a brake on selfishness and un-
fairness.
During question time he produced the
thought-provoking saying: “Laws produce a
society that complies fearfully; ethics pro-
duces the commitment, love, respect etc that
society needs.”
At best, mere laws or legality is a mini-
mum ethic, and in terms of behaviour the
word, “decent”, is far more important than
the word “lawful”.
Asked what can business do, he suggested
that the Chamber lobby for effective polic-
ing of issues in the community.
The Title Deed itself shows that the recy-
cle centre has been built in contravention of
its zoning and use for parking and toilets, a
condition that could only be approved by the
“State”. To date the Title Deed remains un-
amended.
The facts: It is a fact that the Centre had
been built in defiance of proper zoning.
It is a fact that neither interested and af-
fected parties, nor the community at large,
were consulted prior to its establishment.
It is a fact that the building encroaches
across a street surveyed as long ago as 1850!
It is a fact that no road closure was publi-
cized. It is a fact that the public was never
consulted.
It is a fact that we, the public, are over-
whelmingly in support of recycling, but not
of administrative disregard for procedure and
public opinion, resulting in ratepayer’s
money being used to pay a legal team to de-
fend arrogant disregard of our legislation
against its law-abiding residents.
The relevant provincial authority is called
upon to protect the interests of its people
and investigate the manner in which this in-
sult to the law-abiding public has been in-
stigated.
Officials who act in a wasteful or negli-
gent fashion, in disregard of due process,
should be held accountable in their personal
capacities.
R D MacKellar
The Midlands Page 5 — 27th July 2007
Herald

Speaker threatens Herald The Midlands

Surya Pillay, speaker of uMngeni

Council, threatened to have Herald editor
Russell Barnes thrown out the next time he
made an appearance at a council meeting.
Mrs Pillay made the threat after the close
of an Extra Special Council meeting on 11th
July where the municipal manager and his
five managers were granted their controver-
sial “performance bonuses” by an ANC
majority vote.
Questioned by Witness journalist Nalini
Naidoo, she was reported in a front-page
article on 16th July, “Howick Boss’ big bo-
nus”, as saying that her only comment was
that she is fed up with DA councillors dis-
crediting ANC councillors.
HERALD
Her remarks followed the publication
of The Herald on 4th July.
According to standing rules and orders
for Council and its committees, all Coun-
Read all
cil and Exco meetings are open to both the
public and the press. about it
Mr Barnes attended the meeting without a
hitch.
* At the same time Nalini Naidoo sent an
e-mail asking questions about the salary
packages to Dumisani Vilakazi and chief
financial officer but received no reply.
Howick Falls Hotel

Habit To impressive at Sherwood Centre,

Prime
CD launch Nottingham Road
Telephone 033-266 6664 • Cell: 082-771 3222 retail and
An up-and-com-
ing Durban band,
• Wide range of oregon
cottage furniture
office
Habit to, launched
its first CD Secrets
to a Triangle at a
• Downsizing or moving
house? space
We also purchase
function at the
Dockyard Supper
Theatre in Musgrave
furniture or collectibles. available
• Selection of bears
Centre recently.
• Inspirational gifts
Habit To consists Contact 082-565 2314
of Michelle Stent • Stunning range of quilts
(vocals, guitar and
piano), brother
Andrew (vocals and
bass) and boyfriend Above: Habit To
consists of Michelle
Dale Wardell on Stent (vocals, guitar
drums. and piano), brother
Not withstanding Andrew (vocals and
an unusual line-up bass) and boyfriend
Dale Wardell on “Same Venue . . . New Menu! Catering for the young to the young-at-heart!”
of female vocalist drums.
playing lead guitar,
the band has an Right:
Habit To’s first CD,
added strength in Secrets to a
Michelle’s powerful Triangle MONDAY : RIB EVENING
voice and her acute 600g Ribs R45.00
understanding of music. “Music by Delwyn”
She is currently in her third year of a
B. Mus. degree at the University of TUESDAY : A TASTE OF PORTUGAL
KwaZulu-Natal in Durban where she is Peri Peri, BBQ or Lemon & Herb
in the top 15% and hence a member of ½ Chicken R29.50
the Golden Key Society — international Full Chicken R39.50
recognition for excellence in academic “Cast in Stone”, their first, was aired on
achievement. Radio 2000 around Easter. WEDNESDAY : CURRY BUFFET EVENING
Habit To combines in sophisticated And Habit To will be playing in Eat as much as you like R50.00
hard rock with strong jazz and classical Pietermaritzburg! Starts 6 pm
backgrounds and a university musical edu- You can see them on Wednesday 8th Au-
cation to produce what their website calls gust at a Women’s Day concert at the Winston THURSDAY : 500 g T BONE & CHIPS R49.50
“an eclectic mix of styles, brought together Churchill Theatre, starting at 8 pm, featured Live music from 9 pm
with integrated melodies and often-awkward with bands Harris Tweed and RedHouse.
time signatures”. They will also be performing at 2 pm at FRIDAY : SURF & TURF
“You could call it a mixture of Ella the Uprising Festival in Durban tomorrow, 200 g Rump, Calamari, onion R44.50
Fitzgerald and A Perfect Circle,” Andrew Saturday 28th July, at the WaveHouse in Gate- rings, chips
told The Herald. way, Umhlanga, which is featuring two
Yet at the same time the music is still stages, 17 acts, all ages, free skating and SATURDAY : PRAWN NIGHT
undeniably accessible. flowboarding, giveaways and competitions. ½ kg Queen Prawns R85.00
The band complements their ideals and In September they will play unplugged at
music further by projecting video and im- the White Mountain Festival in the Central SUNDAY : BUFFET LUNCH
ages during their live performances. ‘Berg. Served from 12h30 – 15h00 R75.00
Sales of the CD at gigs are going very Reviewers have written in praise of the “Music by Delwyn”
well, while a distribution deal with a com- band.
pany is pending, Andrew explained, saying Alex Sudheim wrote in the Mail & Guard- BUFFET BREAKFAST
that Michelle and Dale have been in the U.K. ian: “For something new from Durban that SATURDAY & SUNDAY 09H00 – 11H00 R50.00
for the past two months. isn’t a Creed-clone or a bunch of puerile
She returned yesterday, and a stand-in power-rock anthemeers don’t miss this breath
drummer will play with them until Dale re- of fresh air”, while The Highway Mail has A LA CARTE MENU AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES
turns to South Africa early next year. said: “When listening to the sounds of Habit
The band is currently receiving radio to . . . it is hard to imagine such a powerful Kitchen open 9 till 9
airplay on East Coast and Radio 2000 for voice coming from such a quiet, petite girl.” BOOKINGS ON 033 330 7928
their second single off Secrets, “Before You Read more about Habit To at Dargle Rd, Howick/Tweedie Off Ramp
Go”, which was released in June. www.myspace.com/habittoband
Page 6 — 27th July 2007
Howick Falls Garage
23 Main Street, Howick • 330 2121
Pulling together
as one community!
We like to keep you moving
Sales & service of gas appliances
Gas, coal and wood fireplaces
Congratulations on
your sterling work!
Telephone Peter —
082-454 0824 • 033-330 2717
35 Ogilvie Road, Merrivale Industrial Park
HARDWARE
G BUILDING SUPPLIERS
033-330 2298 • 18 Harvard Street, Howick
& Congratulations on all
your efforts at healing
S people’s lives.
For all your Building Requirements
Contact Greg • We Deliver Promptly
COMRIE ESTATES
WE ARE THE PROPERTY PEOPLE
TEL. 033-330 6278
Thanks to all the
organisations for their
efforts at disaster relief.
Congratulations to all of
the Midlands Disaster
Relief Committee on
your wonderful effort
after such an
unexpected tragedy
The M
MIDLANDS DISASTER RELIEF COMMITTEE REPORT
Chairperson Clr Tim Lindsay-White
Much has been said about the firestorm that dev- Sue Kirkman), the SPCA (Heather Sommerville),
astated a significant part of the Midlands 25/26 The Department of Welfare (Xoli Dlamini, Lindi
June. Little, thanks to their modesty, has been said Zondi and Yandiswa Mlandu), the South African
by those who freely and voluntary co-ordinated Social Security Affairs (Thami Hadebe), Rotary
the relief work that followed. International and the Department of Education
In the absence of a municipal Disaster Man- (Hennie de Bruin and Di Holderness), the Howick
agement Plan, at the initiative of Anita and Derek Lions (Ron Bachelor), Telkom (Dave), Eskom and
Turvey (Deko Timber Projects) and Bobby Hoole the uMngeni Chamber of Commerce and Indus-
(Chairman Howick District Landowners Associa- try.
tion / Farm Fire 24) the Midlands Disaster Relief An enormous debt of gratitude is owed to those
Committee was formed. An organised structure who so selflessly gave of their time and skills and
was put into place to immediately assist the com- to those hundreds of concerned well-wishers from
munity. Nottingham Road Land Owners Associa- far and wide who donated so generously to allevi-
tion (admirably managed by Hazel Glover), be- ate the plight of our community. Assistance was
came the official control centre through which all given to all in need, irrespective of boundaries.
information, appeals and claims were co-ordinated. Recommendations were made to ensure effec-
The South African Red Cross (under the direc-
tion of Barbara Craig) became the designated col-
tive disaster management and an immediate re-
sponse time in future. Public comments are wel-
lection, assessment and distribution centre. Linked
in between were the Midlands Crisis and Trauma
come.
The Control Centre can still be contacted on
Centre, Drakensberg Emergency Rescue Services 033 266 6032 whilst the final rehabilitation pro-
(Martin Millar), SAPPI Forests (Janine Smith and gramme is in operation.
SAPPI Forests
Extreme weather conditions made it very dif- As regards the financial cost involved he said:
ficult to combat and then extinguish the fires. This “I•it’s early days and the numbers are still being
was eventually achieved late on the 26th of June. finalised, but we expect the net impact to be around
Commenting on the damage caused, Hendrik US$5m after tax. It is not yet clear how much of
de Jongh, Managing Director of Sappi Forests the wood we would be able to use, which would
stated that “the area affected by the fire, some of course also influence the financial impact.”
5,500ha, represents approximately 2% of our for- The aftermath of the severe runaway veld fires Above: Volunteers of the Red Cross and a memb
ests.” experienced in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands near out delivering clothes and food to the fire victim
Howick on Monday 25 would like to thank the many donors of clothing,fo
were so generously given, as well as the many volu
June 2007, has resulted
assist the organisation and fire victims.
in many people in the
area being left destitute
and homeless. SPCA uMngeni
“Sappi Forests has Our local SPCA resp
been hard hit by this stuffs were provided by for assistance from
disaster, but we have the next morning.
the fires. Their firs
also been moved by the
plight of the people in
On Tuesday Sappi
also began distributing
fires was to locate b
render whatever as
our neighbouring com- much-needed blankets, humanely destroy an
munities – some whom food, clothing and tents beyond help. Since
have lost everything
and are now struggling
to the communities of
two hard-hit villages
identifying those ani
to survive in these adjacent to the Sappi
cal treatment as we
harmed but in despe
harsh conditions”, said
Hendrik De Jongh,
managing director of
Pinewood plantation
along the Boston-
to the loss of grazing
efforts were spread
Bulwer road. Sappi vast stretch of cou
Sappi Forests. employees were quick Mafakathini, Mgw
Apart from trying to to respond and added Curry’s Post, Karkl
limit damage to com- to the company’s con- approximately 800 c
mercial plantations and other property, Sappi’s tribution through pri- gency feed, 470 Go
HOWICK response to the fires focused on ensuring the safety vate donations of horses and 1 donkey
of the people in the area. money and items which from Bulwer which
PHARMACY To this end Sappi provided assistance with gen- saw the affected work- would like to record
eral alert procedures and eventual evacuation ef- ers and communities to Epol for 25.5 tons
1 Main Centre • 3302102/3 • a/h 082-800 5256
forts. supported with cloth- tons cattle feed, Uk
In particular on Monday night, 25 June, Sappi ing, foodstuffs, toilet- bales horse food an
Congratulations to all ensured that its contractor labour force was quickly ries, blankets. 200kg horse food, E
evacuated when the Sappi Oaklands Village on the Lynette Webber of M
working on restoring to Shafton plantation came under threat. hay, Charlotte Pasm
The village eventually suffered severe fire dam- use of her farm she
normality again. age. Temporary accommodation and first-need and the 4x4 Club w
items including mattresses and bedding and food Smith and Nephew f
and numerous priva
other donations larg
tions of hay or feed c
Campbell Road, How
donations can be m
No. 5253 0043 17
ENGINEERING
AUTOMOTIVE SPECIALISTS EVERDON
ESTATE
Supporting you all in
Home of Organic
your wonderful efforts Tel: 033-330 2071 Avocados
in restoring people’s We congratulate
lives as soon as possible the Midlands
in the Midlands. Disaster Relief
We congratulate Committee on its
and thank you. efforts in support of
98 Zeederberg Rd, Merrivale • 033-330 5408
our community
Midlands Herald
Above: A group of volun-
teers assists the treas-
urer of the Red Cross,
Barbara.Craig, to put to-
gether the parcels of
clothing for the victims of
the fire. Many donations
were received from the
community of Howick and
from private companies
with which the Red Cross
was able to clothe more
than 1 000 people.
ber of the Red Cross committee
s in Impendle. The Red Cross
ood and household utensils that
unteers who gave of their time to
ponded immediately to the call
Radio Control on the night of
st priority in the days after the
burnt and injured animals and
sistance was possible and to
nimals that were suffering and
e then the focus has shifted to
imals requiring ongoing medi-
ell as those which were un-
erate need of hay and feed due
g or stored winter feed. Relief
far and wide, encompassing a
untry including Maswazini,
wagwa, Haza, Mpophomeni,
loof and Yarrow. There are
cattle needing ongoing emer-
oats and Sheep, 125 pigs, 15
y as well as another 10 goats
are at the SPCA. The SPCA
its sincere and grateful thanks
s cattle feed, Meadow Feeds 6
kulinga Reasearch farm 50-60
d bedding, Allisons Saddlery
Equifeed 20 x 40kg horse feed,
Mount Edgecombe 750 bales
mer of Danning Farm for the
ed for storage, ER24 Durban
who assisted with distribution,
for bandages and medications
te individuals and farmers for
ge and small. Further dona-
an be made to uMngeni SPCA,
wick Tel: 033 330 4557. Cash
made by direct deposit to a/c
75, FNB, Howick, 220725.
Please give your name as
a reference and the word
“fire” so that the SPCA
can acknowledge your
contribution and use it
specifically to buy what-
ever is needed for the ani-
mals so badly affected by
the disaster. The
uMngeni SPCA would
like to extend its grateful
thanks to everyone who
has contributed in what-
ever way to the relief ef-
fort for the animals so
badly affected by the
fires. Their survival will
be due to your care and
compassion.
South African Red Cross, Nottingham Road Land-
owners Association and Collection Centres
The Control Centre of Nottingham Road Land
Owners Association, under the direction of Hazel
Glover, and the Red Cross under the direction of
Barbara Craig, established a close partnership.
Individuals and collection centres (Deko Tim-
ber Projects, Lions Howick, Rotary
Pietermaritzburg, Andy’s Mart, churches, Sappi
Cascades, and the uMngeni Chamber of Com-
merce and Industry) raised tons of donations, rang-
ing from pocket money, food and clothing, to
kitchen ware and furniture for distribution by the
Red Cross.
One lady, who has preferred to remain anony-
mous, donated the entire contents of the flat of
her late father.
Boxers Pietermaritzburg supplied groceries
with which food parcels were assembled to feed
families in need. Rainbow donated no less than 15
truck loads of blankets, clothing, and provisions
via Shafton, as well as liaised with Epol who
supplied 25 tons of animal feed to the SPCA in
Howick.
Individual farmers, Fairfield Dairies, Cedarville
Farmers Association and Beaumont Eston Farm-
ers Association made hay available. In addition,
livestock feed was made available to affected farm-
ers at just above cost.
Red Cross have assisted about 80 families, com-
prising about 400 people, in the area encompassed
Howick Lions
Over 200 blankets, together with bales of clothing
were donated, together with a sizeable donation
to WESSA for disaster aid for wildlife affected by
the fire in the uMngeni Valley. A disaster grant
has been applied for on behalf of Lions Clubs In-
ternational Foundation in Chicago USA, in prepa-
ration of any further needs of the affected com-
munities and other incidents requiring aid.
uMngeni Community Protection Services
Through their experience of the disaster, and as-
sistance in the distribution of aid (via the Red
Cross) to over 96 recorded families, they have
by Impendle, Hilton, Greytown and Nottingham
Road. Together with uMngeni Community Pro-
tection Services, over 94 families were provided
with food parcels and two blankets each.
In the Karkloof-Curry’s Post area over three
truckloads of clothes were delivered; large groups
of families included 54 people at Daybreak Mush-
rooms. 30 people were attended to in Yarrow and
Ntabeni where 13 homes were burnt down.
30 people were assisted in Greytown. In
Impendle 15 families totalling 62 people were
aided. In the uMgungundlovu district the people
were besides themselves with appreciation when
the red Cross and Global Fund arrived to assist
them, emotions running high.
In the Imbabazane and Ntabamhlope areas near
Estcourt 10 families of 33 people were assisted.
On Preston farm 52 people were seen to. Our
trucks went as far afield as Mooi River, Tweedie,
Mshwati, Haza, Mafakathini, Crammond, Rietvlei,
Mackenzies Hill, Elandskop and Mpophomeni
over a three week period; a total of 120 families
(some 410) people being looked after in all.
The South African Red Cross wishes to thank
our very generous community for all donations
received, and would like to reassure you all that
we have endeavoured to ensure that your dona-
tions have been distributed fairly and diligently to
those families and persons that have truly needed
assistance.
motivated for the drawing up of a Disaster Risk
Assessment to aid in future relief exercises. Nu-
merous families are reported to still be coming
forward for assistance.
Eskom & Telkom
Eskom are thanked for the marvellous way they
ensured repairs to damaged infrastructure and res-
toration of electrical supply. Telkom report that
the lines in most areas have been repaired; and
advise that 21 km of optic fibre need to be manu-
factured for the area from Howick along the
Karkloof Road, via Shafton offices, and back to
Howick on the Currys Post Road.
Page 7 — 27th
Above: The district 9270 Rotary Club consisting of KwaZulu-Natal and
Transkei identified those hit by the fire and are going to provide them with c
iron roofs from R40 000 funds available. This house caught fire and are re
the Elandskop area.
Rotary International
Rotary Clubs in the Pietermaritzburg area coordinated the efforts o
tary movement in general. Those devastated communities that fell
the cracks, so to speak, of the initial efforts of the emergency servi
the help of Indunas from the Elandskop area, identified famili
Mafakathini, Mswazini and Mgwagwa traditional areas that had
homes. Food, blankets, clothes and household utensils acquired
donations were delivered with the assistance of Feedback and the
ment of Education, distribution being carefully monitored. Rotary has
an appeal for financial support aimed at assisting with the rebuildi
homes that were destroyed. Clubs throughout the province have alr
nated a significant sum earmarked for the purchase of roofing ma
affected families.
KwaZulu Natal Agricultural Union
An official Disaster Fund was quickly established to assist in the a
of the disaster until resources could be made available from gov
Donations may still be made to the fund at First National Bank
Number….. The amount and proposed use of the fund will be relea
media shortly. Chairperson Robin Barnsley immediately advised
Agriculture and Environmental Affairs and kept the channel of com
tion open to ensure speedy assessment and relief of the area, resu
speedy and positive response to the dilemma with the recommend
affected farmland be declared a disaster area.
Howick District Landowners Association
Chairperson Bobby Hoole magnificently took control of initial fir
measures, alerted all responsible organisations and helped set up
mittee to take over relief work. Together with Kwanalu, HDLOA en
claims could be made, collected by Afgri (Sean & Cheryl) for con
in national rehabilitation efforts. Loss assessment forms have all be
off by the Chairperson who advised that the collective damage cau
fire has been devastating. Overall statistics will be released by th
ment of Agriculture in due course once properly analysed. Once al
tion has been collated a detailed report will be compiled for consid
the MEC. The MEC will then meet with the Premier (KZN) for fin
ment and contact with the President. The public will be kept in
developments as they occur.
In the photographs to the left
are representatives of the
organisations that came
together to form the Midlands
Disaster Relief Committee,
following the firestorm of 2007
on 25th and 26th June. The
community thanks them for
their unstinting service.
Department of Welfare, and South African Social Security Af
Have assisted 88 families, and liaised with the committee to urgen
those who had ID books, birth certificates, social grant cards, pens
and so on destroyed in the fires. Efforts were made to ensure g
pensions were rightfully paid out as normal whilst a mobile fac
organised.
KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has identified five sch
were damaged by the fire and/or wind. In preparation for the sta
third school term, it has facilitated the municipalities’ erection of
tents and alternative classroom facilities for those schools that h
tained extensive damage. Principals and educators have been enco
be sympathetic and supportive of learners who lost school unifo
books etc. Donations and support are given where needed. The
nutrition and social support services of the Department have assi
the identification of communities that were not immediately benefi
the emergency support and services that were being rendered. I
with Rotary, Red Cross, Pietermaritzburg branches of First Nation
the East Coast Radio Winter Warmth and Feedback (an NPO that un
food redistribution in the Pietermaritzburg area), the Department f
and assisted with the delivery of food, clothes, blankets and basic h
utensils to the families in the Elandskop area that had lost homes.
Page 8 — 27th July 2007
Continued from page 4
Farmers still unhappy
with MM’s approach
to recent, future fire disaster
out.
“In other words, then the process is not
succeeding, because you are not allowing
community participation.”
Mr Vilakazi then accused him of being a
politician, to which Mr Hoole replied that
he was a businessman representing the com-
munity and looking for relief and assistance
at this time.
When he criticised certain comments
made by municipal officials that
sometimes are unhelpful — for example,
speaker Surya Pillay was said to have
stated two days after the fire that farmers
need to train their farmworkers to fight
KZN Theatre,
Arts & Events Diary
Theatre:
Paul Slabolepszy’s “Not The Big Easy”
on at the Catalina Theatre until 5 August.
Buy one get one free, every Sunday.
“Not The Big Easy” is the story of a
golfing “everyman” — 50 year old Ernie
Evans, the “other” Ernie . . .
There are those of us who spend our
lives in the rough trying to get onto the
fairway. Ernie is one of those. He has
reached a “crossroads” in his life.
We discover him scouring the “rough”
on the 16th hole of a golf course some-
where in Gauteng looking for the fifth ball
he has used today.
The show had its world premiere at
the Playhouse in East London, and has
played at the Hexagon in
Pietermaritzburg, Liberty Theatre on the
Square in Johannesburg, the Mardi Gras
Theatre in Carnival City and a season in
Grahamstown at the National Arts Festi-
Gospel:
US Gospel star, Kirk Franklin, for Dur-
ban One World Festival Concert, at the
ICC, Saturday 28th July.
US contemporary gospel music star,
Kirk Franklin, comes to Durban with his
18 piece band to headline the 2007 “One
World Music Festival”, which also fea-
tures the awesome “Joyous Celebra-
tions” choir to take place at the ICC on
28 July.
Franklin — who is famed for marrying
gospel to a hip-hop R&B genre — is a
multi-Grammy Award-winning platinum-
selling artist whose debut album Kirk
Franklin and the Family spent 100 weeks
on the gospel charts and became the first
gospel album to go platinum.
Despite his fame as a performer,
Franklin remains a humble, devout Chris-
tian.
Franklin will share the bill with South
Africa’s “Joyous Celebration” in two con-
certs of awesome, inspiring contempo-
rary gospel music. “Joyous Celebration”
has grown from being a hit gospel show
in 1996, to a formidable 34-member
fires better — Mr Vilakazi asked for
clarification on this source and said that
the reports were false and no-one from the
media had tried to contact him.
“Then why didn’t you try to contact me
if you saw me being quoted in the media?”
Mr Hoole asked.
“I don’t have to,” Mr Vilakazi is said to
have replied.
Mr Hoole told The Herald that to his
knowledge the only assistance thus far that
uMngeni Municipality has given the relief
effort has been in lending municipal vehi-
cles to the Department of Welfare to distrib-
ute food parcels to the 88 families that were
affected.
val.
This is Paul’s 30th play. Highlights
among them being “Saturday Night at the
Palace”, “The Return of Elvis du Pisane”,
“Pale Natives”, “Mooi Street Moves”,
“Under the Oaks”, “Over the Hill”, “Heel
Against the Head” and “Running Riot”.
For more information or to book call
Thandeka on 031-305 6889.Shows are
Tuesday until Saturday at 8 pm and Sun-
day at 6 pm.Tickets are now available
online at www.strictlytickets.com or on
our website at www.catalinatheatre.co.za
or at www.goingplacessa.co.za.
R65 for adults, R55 students and pen-
sioners. Parental Guidance: 13.
Both Bobby and Paul would like to dedi-
cate this Durban season to the memory
of their great friend and colleague, Bill
Flynn.
choir, accompanied by an 8-piece band,
6-piece dance troupe and some of the
youngest and finest vocal talent in South
Africa.
Joyous Celebration impresario, co-
founder, musical director and conductor,
Lindelani Mkhize is playing a meaning-
ful role in staging this watershed music
event.
The “One World Concerts” are an in-
tegral part of this year’s annual “One
World Festival” which builds bridges and
creates relationships between New Or-
leans and sister city Durban.
The concert serves to create aware-
ness about this ambitious and far-reach-
ing initiate which aims to generate tour-
ism jobs in the long-term, create cultural
connections and be the impetus for eco-
nomic engines between the two dynamic
cities.
For more information, visit the website
www.dowfestival.com and
www.southafricaninvestmentgroup.com.
Booking for the concert is through
Computicket nationwide.
Important notice of meeting to
all members of the uMngeni
Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Notice is hereby given that a Special Gen-
eral Meeting of all Members of the Cham-
ber has been called by the undersigned at
the Howick Sports Club, Market Street,
Howick on Monday, 20 August 2007 at
17;30 to transact the following urgent busi-
ness:
1) To waive items 8,12 and 9,1 of the Con-
stitution for the purposes of this meet-
ing;
2) To inform Members of the current fi-
nancial situation of the Chamber;
3) To decide on the future continuance of
the Chamber, and
4) To elect a new Executive Committee of
the Chamber.
Note:- In terms of the Constitution of the
Chamber, the Executive Committee shall
consist of a minimum of six members and a
maximum of 12 members. Any member may
volunteer or nominate a candidate for elec-
tion to the Executive Committee. Nomina-
tions shall be in writing, signed by the per-
son making the nomination, signed by a
member who wishes to second the nomina-
tion and signed by the nominee, and it must
include the company names of all the parties
signing the nomination.
Postal ballots may be submitted to the Sec-
retary before commencement of the meeting
Everything just perfect at
eMthunzini Restaurant
eMthunzini Restaurant at The Shed in
Howick must be one of the better on the
Meander today.
Our party of four — which included
wellknown Midlands restaurateurs Jan and
Louise van Niekerk formerly of Aladdin’s-
de-Light in Nottingham Road — was im-
pressed by chef Austean Phiri’s wonderful
and extensive menu. Expect unexpected com-
binations of food, with lots of subtle Afri-
can flavours but still exotic !
I could tell that Jan’s considered his starter
of oven-baked marrowbones with mampoer,
sweet potato and grape conserve a winner.
Hannelie enjoyed her Maungu soup (a
Malawian pumpkin and small sugar beans
soup dish) while I relished my Mozambican
seafood platter, served with the traditional
homemade bread, “pao”.
Louise, who for 12 years at Aladdin’s
served up some pretty exciting dishes, joined
us on the main dishes for whole baby chicken
and minted couscous.
The Midlands Herald
on the Member’s official letterhead, signed
by the Member and witnessed by two inde-
pendent persons.
Please confirm your attendance (or apolo-
gies) to the Secretary before 15 August 2007
at the following contact numbers:- Telephone
033 330 5626, Fax 033 330 5637 or E-mail
ucci@netfocus.co.za
Issued on 16 July, 2007 by the following
Members:-
Nick McConnell, Hubers cc.; Tim Lindsay-
White, Sotheby’s International; Bob Staf-
ford-Mayer, Howick Metal Products; Don
Nott, Midlands Community College; Red
Haines, RC. Haines and Assoc. ; Russell
Barnes, The Midlands Herald; Ellen
Mitchell, AA Gas; Shawn Naicker, Acacia
Printers; Ken Pascoe, Ama Bloka Bloka; Paul
Rencken, Andy’s Mart; Kingsley Krog,
Countri-Tech; Mike Goldstone, Country
Kitchens; Kevin Vally, First National Bank;
Martin & Giovanni, Giovision; Leisel
Jacobs, Global Learning Services; Yvo n n e
Reece, Graemor Accounting; John Wright,
Howick Insurance Brokers; Paul Hodkin,
Howick Pharmacy; Charles Kelmanson,
Kelmanson cc.; Dick Comins, Merrivale
Motors; Lawrence Taylor, TKT. Manufac-
turing and John Tungay, Worldwide Digital
Broadcasting.
Left: eMthunzini
Restaurant at The
Shed can be found
near the forthcom-
ing Riverside
development on
the other side of
the Umgeni River,
between Howick
and the N3. Here
chef Austean Phiri
is cooking up pure
gastronomic
delights.
Picture: Sandy
Dixon
The rest of us found contentment in
springbok loin wrapped with spinach and
bacon, par-fried and roasted in the oven, s
erved with savoury samp and jungle beans;
Chef Austean’s special curry of juicy chicken
breast cooked in mild curry and coconut
milk, together with prawns and basmati rice
and grilled banana; and baked Cape salmon
with spinach and feta cheese in phyllo pas-
try topped with Cape de Paris butter, and
lemon basmati rice and vegetables.
The desserts, too, were glorious.
The restaurant has been revamped impres-
sively for a distinct African feel, with out-
side undercover bar and catering area, and
bamboo partition and ceiling cut by Austean
himself.
Want to take guests or family and friends
out for a treat, and all at reasonable prices?
In our four-fold opinion you can’t go
wrong here at all.
Telephone 033-330 6257.
Russell Barnes
The Midlands Herald Page 9 — 27th June 2007

Little has changed

CENTRE
HARDWARE
at Amy’s and AJ’s
Suppliers of General Hardware & Building Materials
Also Stockists of Gas, Gas Accessories & Paraffin

Below: AJ’s staff — from left, Gugu, Michelle, Zandile, Ninga, Londi, Bony and manager Taz.
Our very best wishes to all at
Amy's Restaurant & Pizzeria
TEL: 033-330 4588
Shop 5/6, Howick Centre, Harvard Street, Howick

Howick Stationers
11 Main Street, Howick
Phone/fax: 033-330 7696

Also stockists of cellphones,

pre-paid cards and accessories
From your proud
suppliers who also love
your fine food!

Wonderpak Packaging
Wholesalers Above: Clive Heath, Amy’s’ and Aj’s’ new “delivery man”,
Telephone 033-342 4207 and the spanking new bike with Aj’s manager Taz Pearson.
386G Church Street, Pietermaritzburg
The face of Howick, over the past months,
Congratulations with your has changed. Trees have been felled, fires
have taken their toll and parking is hard to
two successful businesses, find.
and wishing you all the One of the few things that has not changed
best for the future is Amy’s Restaurant and AJ’s Take-away —
still producing excellent food and service,
and consistently so.
Having said that, a new joint effort
Above: Amy’s Restaurant staff — back from left: Lungi, Sylvia, Precious, Patricia, Thobile, Eunice and
between the two food outlets, a new delivery Gelly; front from left: Amy and Martinette.
service has been started to provide Good Hot
Tel. 033-330 2807 Food to your door. Amy’s will be closed only on a Monday Taz who has made sure that the wellknown
Both shops welcome Clive to the team. after 4 pm and AJ’s is open on Sunday from flame-grilled chicken products and curry
Congratulations You will see him about town on his new 1 pm to 9 pm. dishes are as good as ever.
to you and we wish you scooter; give him a hoot! The free delivery service, for the Howick The combination of the two food outlets
Purveyors of fine food and Merrivale Areas, will operate between certainly adds a huge variety of meals
well in business! In order to support the delivery service, 9 am and 4 pm from Monday to Friday. supporting their motto: “Something for
the trading hours of both shops have been Amy’s, now entering its 6th year under everyone!”
Super meat, super service changed to provide a service seven days a the ownership of Amy Bailey, has certainly Catch our taste!
week. become a special place for the Howick locals. Both Amy’s and AJ’s want to say “thank
Her reputation you” to all their regular customers and
has spread far and suppliers for their ongoing support.
Telephone
HOWICK SPICES wide, as attested to Let’s hope that Howick changes for the
by the postcards that best!
033-330 2285 & PRAYER GOODS are received For orders, telephone 033-330 4227.
SHOP 4, SPAR CENTRE, HOWICK. TEL.: 033-330 6399/082-730 4953 regularly from
Stockists of: Mixed Masalas, Indian Curry Spices, Exotic Spices foreign visitors!
and Herbs, Pickles, Ginger/Garlic, Baking Goods, Wide Range of A range of Daily
Congratulations to AJ’s Incense Sticks, Complete Range of Prayer Goods for all Occasions.

It’s always a pleasure to deal with you

Specials will soon
be on the menu.
• C•C•W•
and wishing you all of
at AJs. Congratulations on your AJ’s, now 18
the very best ! successful business ventures in Howick! months old, is under
the managership of
CATERING
Suppliers to the Catering Industry
24 Winston Rd, Pietermaritzburg
Nite Out/Howick Tel: 033-345 4505/345 4536
Fax: 033-394 2935
West Liquors
WHOLESALE & FRESH Proud suppliers to AJ’s
Telephone 033-330 3803
PRODUCE DISTRIBUTORS
Shops 1&2, Rainbow Mall,
9 Overdene Rd, Howick West, 3290 86 Midmar Road, Howick West
Tel. 033-330 5153 • 072-785 0666 Telephone: 033-330 6786
We are proud to supply Now approved wholesalers
Congratulations, your establishments. of all ABI products.
Congratulations on your
Amy’s and AJs, ventures in business. Pleased to be a supplier Tel 033-330 8323 • e-mail aqua@cascata.co.za

to you. Congratulations DRENCH YOUR THIRST!

and all the best YOU ORDER Congratulations, Alan
and all the best
for the future! WE DELIVER wishes for the future. and Amy, on your
two business ventures!
Page 10 — 27th July 2007 The Midlands Herald

Community Support Focus — Howick Hospice

Sponsored by The Midlands Herald,
Sotheby’s International Realty (Mid-
lands) and Browne Brodie & Fourie,
Community Support Focus each
month highlights a different facet of
our local community in need of sup-
port. This month’s focus looks at the
work of Sunfield Home and raises
R1 000 for the organisation.

Howick Hospice celebrates its 20th birth-

day this year!
From humble beginnings in 1987 when
there was one nursing sister and volunteers,
the organisation has seen enormous growth
Conveyancers and now has a staff of 42.
Sr. Louise Stobart, the present general
We wish you well manager and the first hospice sister, wrote
in the April newsletter, “I can remember the
with your contribution first patient I visited. How nervous and in-
Telephone 033-342 8386 adequate I felt! And now, so many years later,
I still feel privileged that we are able to meet
new patients and their families and share in
this very sad but precious time of their lives. Above: Howick Hos-
EVERDON “I have learnt so much from these special pice’s charity shop
patients.” volunteers, Rosemary,
ESTATE Dr. Dave Peiser stood down after ten years Margaret, Gloria and its
shop co-ordinator Cathy.
Home of Organic as chairperson of Hospice and has been re-
Tel: 033-330 Avocados placed by Dave Goodenough.
2071 Howick Hospice offers a service of domi- Right:
ciliary palliative nursing care to terminally- Howick Hospice
We are pleased to ill people referred by a doctor, clinic or hos- nursing sisters
Margaret Ndlovu,
be able to support you! pital. Ursula Frost, Mesh
Two nursing sisters are on the “traditional Adamson, Michelle
hospice” team and are on call 24 hours a Moodley and Liz
Brockett.
day for patient care and telephonic advice. Inset from left: Sr
Their dedication enables patients to die Charlotte Woudberg
Andy's Mart in their own homes, surrounded by their and Dr Dave Peiser.
loved ones and in familiar, comfortable sur-
& Carpet Care roundings, thus fulfilling the patients’ wishes
to stay at home. home-based care with each patient seeing a the decision to spend money re-vamping the
9 Main Street, Howick • Tel. 033-330 2625
Hospice also offers a bereavement serv- registered nurse at least once every two charity shop.
ice to the bereaved family for more or less weeks, and more regular visits from its 20 “We re-carpeted, painted, extended shop-
Well done in all one year after the death of their loved one.
In 1997 an outreach programme was
community workers and volunteers.
Hospice receives limited financial help
ping hours and employed a full-time man-
ageress, Cathy Steyn,” Sr Stobart explains.
that you are doing started to meet the needs of patients living
with HIV/Aids. This programme offers
from the Government and so recently took “The move has been more successful than
any of us could have imagined, and monthly
income has tripled !
“Our sincere thanks to all those who regu-
HARDWARE Amy's COMRIE ESTATES larly donate clothing and goods for the shop,

G BUILDING SUPPLI- Restaurant & Pizzeria WE ARE THE PROPERTY PEOPLE

330 2298 • 18 ERS
Harvard Street, Howick
& We are proud
and our wonderful volunteers who help each
day to keep it running smoothly.”
Tel. 033-330 6748 • 7 Harvard Street, Howick Howick Hospice is a non-government org-
TEL. 033-330 6278
anisation and has to raise all its own funds,
Amy’s is pleased so we ask you, the Howick community,
to support your All the best please to consider — or continue — sup-

S to support you! very caring work! from all at Comrie

porting its efforts to offer a service of holi-
stic, palliative care to the terminally-ill peo-
ple of the Lions River district.
For all your Building Requirements
Contact Greg • We Deliver Promptly
Telephone 033-330 5257.

GRAEMOR
ACCOUNTING Howick Falls Garage
DUNLOP INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS (PTY) LTD
SERVICES 23 Main Street, Howick • 330 2121 Sales & service of gas appliances
Gas, coal and wood fireplaces
Induna Mills Road, P.O. Box 29, Howick 3290 Tel. 033-330 2922 • Fax 033-330 2925
Telephone 033-239 3311 • Fax 033-239 3388 1 Gush Avenue, Howick Proud to be associated Congratulations on
graemor@yebo.co.za • www.graemor.co.za
At our Howick factory we: with our community your sterling work!
• Mix natural and synthetic rubber into We are pleased to support assistance and support Telephone Peter —
compounds. 082-454 0824 • 033-330 2717
this valuable cause! We like to keep you moving 35 Ogilvie Road, Merrivale Industrial Park
From which we produce:
• Belting — for use in mines and heavy
industry for the conveying of ore and
coal.
• Industrial Hose — in various sizes
Merrivale
for applications in mines and industry.
• Automotive products — such as Open 7 days a week — 7 am - 7pm
radiator and fuel hose and seals for
automotive windscreens and doors. Tel 033-330 4092 • Fax 033-330 5816 • 13 Zeederberg Road, Merrivale

We are proud
to support your work We are proud to be associated with your vital contribution.
at Howick Hospice
The Midlands Herald Page 11 — 27th July 2007

The Northern ‘Berg Magnificent

The Northern ‘Berg, with its magnificent Amphitheatre, is
looking stunning at the moment, as we found last week . . .
Montusi
Right: Montusi’s 14
individual garden suites
provide superb views of the
magnificent Drakensberg
Amphitheatre.
CATHKIN PARK RESERVATIONS Montusi Moun-
For all your Drakensberg accommodation: “One call does it all”. tain Lodge is the
only exclusive lodge
Tel. 036-468 1091, fax 086-675 3235 or e-mail cathkinpark@futurenet.co.za
in the northern
Drakensberg Moun-
tains (a World Heri-
tage Site), and is
situated 70km off
the N3 halfway be-
tween Johan-
nesburg and Durban
Your one call to us will give you, all free of charge: in KwaZulu-Natal. picnic site for special occasion lunches.
1) the rates offered by all the leading hotels, B&B and self-catering establish- The lodge is situated in the pristine, quiet The Lodge is also close to the Amphi-
ments — including an exclusive B&B ideal for a honeymoon couple — in the Cavern valley and has superb views of the theatre Golf Course.
Central and Northern Drakensberg; magnificent Drakensberg Amphitheatre from Treat yourself to a community project re-
2) guidance to the type of accommodation best suited to your needs;
each of its 14 individual garden suites. laxation massage or basic manicure or pedi-
3) the administration necessary to secure your reservation, including directions
to your destination.
Here you can relax in absolute peace and cure.
Your reasons for visiting the Drakensberg may include a holiday, honeymoon, tranquillity. At the Adventure Centre you can swing
overnight stay, planning or attending a wedding, leisure group or conference. Each suite stands alone in the garden and on the flying trapeze or enjoy paintball, quad
Whatever it is, we have a venue for you. Please contact us for winter specials at has a bedroom with a king-sized double bed, bikes, gorge swing, zip line and the king
various hotels and self-catering units. bathroom with a bath and separate walk-in swing.
For information and reservations in the Central and Northern Drakensberg, shower, lounge with a TV, Jetmaster gas Our superb cuisine, like our homemade
contact Fiona. We offer a professional, friendly and efficient service ! hotrock fireplace and a tea/coffee making bread, chocolate and desserts, is quite ad-
unit with a small fridge for fresh milk and dictive!

Savouring your drinks.

Your own private covered parking is right
beside your suite.
Hike or horse-ride in the mountains, swim
in the dams or the natural rock-coloured
swimming pool, enjoy birding and fly-fish-
ing and discover for yourself our secluded
Personalised service from friendly staff
makes this owner-run lodge a delight.
And don’t forget that midweek specials
are also available.
Telephone Montusi Mountain Lodge at
036-438 6243, fax 036-438 6566 or view
website www.montusi.za.net

Alpine Heath Resort —

Those who know me would expect a com-
ment on the cuisine, and yes, it’s to say that
Little Switzerland’s rates among the best in
the ‘Berg.
One of the highlights of a stay at this
mountaintop resort on the Oliviershoek Pass
is the incomparable, buffetstyle meal —
whether you’re enjoying an English cooked
breakfast after a refreshing sleep or an exqui-
site dinner after a wonderful day — all served
in Little Switzerland’s incomparable style.
When I stayed there last week, this hotel
was looking as magnificent as ever.
The rooms were stunningly renovated not
long ago, and consist of luxurious executive
suites, some with jacuzzi baths, the very com-
fortable deluxe rooms and selfcatering chalets
with fireplaces.
Mine was of course a one night business
trip, but for those needing to rest you’ll find
that the rooms are both spacious and comfort-
entertainment capital
of the Drakensberg
Left, below
left and be-
low right:
What else but
the beauty of
our Drakens-
berg? Here we
feature Little
Switzerland
Hotel near the top of the Oliviershoek
Pass, just past Bergville.
able and come complete with a
beautifullyfinished bathroom, TV and coffee
bar.
And of course the views from them are in-
comparable: Perched high at the top of the
Oliviershoek Pass, this charming hotel looks
down onto a striking vista from the Amphi-
theatre on one side to the Malutis on the other.
For outdoor activity, there is tennis, bowls,
volleyball, croquet, puttputt, horseriding, lei-
surely strolls, rapp jumping, mountainbiking
or a refreshing swim, while those who like to
work out will find that the health centre in-
cludes an aerobics floor (circuit and
weighttraining), squash court, heated swim-
ming pool, saunas, Jacuzzi, climbing wall and
climbing cave!
Telephone reservations at 036438 6220; fax
036438 6222; view website www.lsh.co.za or
email res@lsh.co.za. Russell Barnes
It is astonishing
to realise that Alpine
Heath is already 10
years old this year,
and to commemo-
rate is giving the
award-winning re-
sort a R6 million
facelift !
“The bulk of the
development will
centre around the
entertainment area
of the Village
Square,” general
manager Françoise
Above: Scenic Alpine Heath Resort is enjoying a R6 million facelift this year.
Muller explains.
“The brand new bar, ‘The Tavern’, is al- air, crystal-clear streams and an abundance
ready complete, while also being constructed of birdlife. At the thatched Umziki Water-
is an auditorium to cater for entertainment, ing Hole, on the banks of one of the resort’s
big screen rugby and “Chef on the Stage” trout dams, guests enjoy a picturesque set-
cooking demonstrations, and a deli where ting to enjoy their meals.
guests can pack own picnic baskets or those For the energetic, it has a fully-equipped
staying self-catering can purchase that little gymnasium, squash and all-weather tennis
something left behind.” courts, volleyball and mountainbiking.
The new development will do much for 100 luxurious chalets offer complete pri-
the “La Gruyeres” restaurant, which will vacy yet still boast telephones, cellular re-
move from its present on-square position to ception and satellite TV.
a stunning location overlooking both moun- The three-bedroom chalet, featuring mas-
tains and a dam. And then there is the all- ter bedroom ensuite and two with twin beds,
new children’s entertainment centre with play can easily accommodate six people.
stations, table tennis and other games — all The resort receives regular comments of
entirely free ! — that will be completed by praise in its visitors’ book. Just one recent
the end of the year. one reads: “Excellent service, friendly staff,
The perfect place to unwind, Alpine Heath good food and great fun!”
offers guests tranquil surrounds, with a tap- And you can experience all of the same !
estry of towering mountain peaks, crisp fresh Telephone 036-438 6484.
 The Midlands

Baggies
@ R4000
HERALD Sport
No. 197 • Friday 27th July 2007

Left: Dale Morphew looks to pass the ball,

playing for the Natal A men’s canoe polo team at
the SA Champs in Durban three weeks ago.

Right: Dale poses at the dairy farm at

Tweedie where he works, with his Natal
colours for canoe polo and gold medal for
Natal’s winning efforts at the SA Champs.

Right: Passing the ball . . .

Pictures: Julia Rees Photography

— Cell: 073-141 4844; web:
www.juliarees.co.za;
e-mail: julia@juliarees.co.za

Tel. 033-330 5566 • Fax 033-330 5948

Excelling at canoe polo, needs
support for World Champs
A/h cell: 082-443 6026
1 Laurel Crescent, Merrivale Industrial Park

* Panelbeating
* Spraypainting * Fibreglass A Howick youngster hopes to travel with the defence. quickly and being versatile, the canoes them-
repairs and fabrication * South African men’s canoe polo team to “The game is — when you’re attacking, selves are under three metres in length and
Bakkie linings Canada in July next year. all of you are attacking, and when you’re have bumpers at the front and back, the like-
Dale Morphew has been playing for Na- defending, all of you are defending,” he able youngster explains.
tal A team since 2004, having been selected explains. “It’s a very intense and physical game,”
for the U21 side in 2001 while a Grade 10 So what attracts him to it? he says of it. “Players are allowed to ram
pupil at Weston. “I don’t actually know. When I play polo, other canoes. The trick of it is to try and
Up to about fifteen players gather to prac- I feel free. keep the ball moving while you manoeuvre
tise at the University pool in “I really love it. I feel that my heart is in your boat.”
Rustic Concrete Pietermaritzburg on a Monday night — “but the sport. When I’ve played, I feel like a Since early 2007 he has been training at
Tiles • Pavers • Cobbles not as many at the moment when it’s winter new person.” the Midlands Well-ness and Fitness Centre
Cladding • Various sizes and cold!” he quips. The game of canoe polo in Howick, where personal trainer Justin
Dale plays a multiple role in the team, The game of canoe polo is played in an Stewart has been helping him to build up
Contact Lyn or Rob and possesses strengths in both attack and area of 23 metres by 35 metres on pools, his strength and rehabilitate a shoulder in-
3 Geekie Road, Howick (opposite dams and even — as jury that had him out of action for all of
Merrivale KwikSpar) • Cell 082-578 0659 he discovered on an 2006.
or telephone/fax: 033-330 7054 (a/h). GEARBOX & DIFF overseas trip in 2005 SA Champs in Durban
EXCHANGE & REPAIRS — on canals in Bel- Fit again, Dale has just played in the re-
gium! cent SA Champs in Durban held three weeks
Midlands Branch Dale spent three ago.
Tel. 033-330 5568/96; Cell: 072-126 1800 months working on Natal A played magnificently to win the
5 Main Road, Merrivale a dairy farm, near tournament, beating Gauteng 3-2 in the fi-
Oldenburg, in Ger- nals, although the team was 0-2 down at half-
Repairs to all Gearboxes & Diffs
many, and also time.
Wide range of reconditioned units available played the sport Having earlier in the day during the round
Clutch overhauls there and on a lake robin stage beaten the same side 4-1, they
Authorised CWA and RMI dealers in London. He cur- were not about to give up, and so staged a
All workmanship guaranteed rently lives and magnificent recovery to produce three goals
Full workshop facilities works on a dairy and win.
farm overlooking A need for sponsorship
Left: Terence, Peter and Midmar. As to the future, in a few months’ time
Allen in the Midlands According to the Natal A will be travelling to Johannesburg
workshop, with a BMW
Tel. 082-413 5003 • 033-266 6535 rules of the game, for a tournament, and will take part in an-
automatic gearbox and an
Isuzu manual gearbox. each half lasts 10 other in January before the team to travel to
Behind them is a diff stand minutes, with just a Canada is chosen.
where they had been working two minute break in At this stage he needs a new paddle, val-
on a 4x4 Hi-lux diff.
between. ued at R1 900, canoe at R2 600 and spon-
There are five sorship to go overseas (about R25 000 to
Durban Branch: 501 Umgeni Road players and three R30 000).
Established 1993 substitutes in each Let’s help our local achievers in sport!
Tel: 031-312 0838 team.
Fax: 031-312 6629 Needing to turn