Gamtoos mouth resort homeowners association newsletter 27

GAMTOOS MOUTH RESORT HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER 36

THE 46TH MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS WAS HELD ON THURSDAY 03 JUNE 2010

I REPORT AS FOLLOWS:

If you have any news, swops etc please contact us. (see info page )

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE ARE WATER RESTRICTIONS. USE WATER SPARINGLY. NO GARDEN HOSES, ALTHOUGH IT HAS RAINED. WE ARE SO PLEASED WITH THE RAIN.
It is winter and cold. I hope that the children are enjoying the long school holidays. I have asked Rina Wolmarans to write something about the soccer. I am sick and tired of the vuvuzelas, but may be I am the only one. It is the last match on Saturday and my money is on Germany! Maybe it will be Spain. We’ll wait and see.

Sokker (Rina Wolmarans): 2010 het toe aangebreek! “Feel it, its here!!! Sokker is op almal se lippe. Vuvuselas blaas en raas met `n lawaai wat hoor en sien laat vergaan! Die wat nie blaas nie skop `n oorverdowende lawaai op en “dans” die strate vol. Wettige en onwettige produkte word MISBRUIK. Hoelank nog, wanneer – indien ooit – gaan dit einde kry?

Het sport dan straks die plek van Godsdiens ingeneem? Swaar verdiende fondse vind die breê pad na pret en plesier! Wat nou van die armes, beproefdes en bedroefdes? Is daar nog iets vir hulle oor? Ek vra maar net.

Wat gebeur wanneer alles oor is? Is alles verby? Almal is huis-toe! En jou ore, jou keel, jou beursie?

Ek wil nie regtig weet nie…….
Soccer (Chris Egberink) Chris Egberink watched 4 Games in PE with his daughter and friends. Got some cheap seats behind the goal posts. He found the atmosphere electric and the games very exciting. He was only sorry that his Dutch team lost in the final, but was thrilled that they beat Brazil 2-1. He agreed Spain were deservedly the winners. What an unforgettable experience!!
FEEDBACK FROM DIRECTORS’ MEETING
STREETLIGHTS

Children in the Resort are vandalizing the street lights. If you see it happening, please report it. These unnecessary costs and waste of manpower can be avoided.

STAIRS TO THE LAGOON

Marc Gottsch (Colin Hockin’s son in law) donated the concrete stairs to the lagoon. A big thank you for such a wonderful donation! The Association will level the top of the stairs with a cement filling, build a balustrade on the one side and secure the embankment with wooden poles.

REVISITING TARRING OF THE ENTRANCE TO PHASE 1

We obtained specs from the Engineers and gave them to Contractors to enable them to re-quote. The quotes were substantially higher at R77,520 and R59,466 (Inc. VAT). The decision to tar the entrance road now, was reversed on the recommendation of Zane Hayes and Angela Stockley. This as, firstly they were unhappy with the new prices quoted above, which were substantially higher (± 35%) than the original. This meant that the Homeowners share of the account rose from R22088 to R 29733 (Inc. VAT). Secondly, as the road had been repaired to adequate standards recently. This using G5 & PPC grit. If this standard could be maintained by the Resort Management, then Homeowners could wait for GMI to do the job at their expense. Thus saving R29733.

Both elected Directors felt that they had to go back to their constituencies and sound them out. Ballot papers are enclosed, please let us have your vote by 31-8-2010.
WATER ACCOUNTS

June water accounts will be at the rate of R8,09 per kilo litre. This is the Homeowners Association’s tariff during the current water restrictions. A formal application for a discounted water tariff was submitted to the Kouga Municipality recently.

SLIPWAY FENCING

The fencing of the slipway area is near completion. The cattle grid will soon be built to keep the unwanted “guests” out. The tortoise sanctuary fence and gate has been completed.

INTERNET CONNECTIVITY

Angela Stockley is negotiating with MTN to get us within their 3G footprint. This will be our best option as MTN already has a tower at Gamtoos. Hopefully we will soon be able access a faster internet.

ELECTRICITY INCREASE – HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

As from 1 August 2010 the new electricity tariff will be R1.05c per kwh (23.5% increase). The price was 85c per kwh last year. This as the NMBM have increased their tariff by 22% from the 1st of July 2010.

BEACH CLEANUP

Saturday morning, 26 June, was the quarterly beach clean up. 14 People turned out. Thanks very much to all of you. We really appreciate it. The next Beach Cleanup and Fire drill will be on Saturday 11th of September 2010. The final Beach Cleanup and Fire drill for the year will be on the 4th of December.

ENVIRONMENT AFFAIRS

Dennis Lee donated a large number of elephant`s foot trees (“spekboompies”). Robert Gravett and Pieter de Beer took it upon themselves to plant some of these trees in phase 1 in the children’s playground. Also in phases 1 & 2. And on the dunes. The trees were planted on Wednesday and on Saturday it was noticed, that some had been pulled out by hooligans. Please help to identify these culprits, so that they can be dealt with properly.

Any donations of plants will be gladly accepted. Many thanks to Dennis Lee.
LIEF EN LEED

The following people have recently passed away:

Edgar, brother of Barbara Waspe

Ian, son of Ben and Millie van Deventer

Noel Strydom , husband of Mara Strydom.

Please accept our Condolences

Specially for those who lost a loved one.

MISS ME – BUT LET ME GO

WHEN I COME TO THE END OF THE ROAD

AND THE SUN HAS SET FOR ME

I WANT NO RIGHTS IN A GLOOM – FILLED ROOM

WHY CRY FOR A SOUL SET FREE?

MISS ME A LITTLE – BUT NOT FOR TOO LONG

AND NOT WITH YOUR HEAD BOWED LOW

REMEMBER THE LOVE THAT WE ONCE SHARED

MISS ME – BUT LET ME GO

FOR THIS IS A JOURNEY WE MUST TAKE

AND EACH MUST GO ALONE

IT`S ALL A STEP IN THE MASTER`S PLAN

A STEP ON THE ROAD HOME,

WHEN YOU ARE LONELY AND SICK AT HEART

GO TO THE FRIENDS WE KNOW AND BURY YOUR SORROWS

IN DOING GOOD DEEDS.

MISS ME – BUT LET ME GO.

IS HUIDIGLIK OF WAS IN DIE HOSPITAAL:

Mara Strydom - ligte beroerte. Dennis Lee - hartaanval. Lucas se broer – beroerte

Kerneels van Rooyen - operasie, (asook sy vrou Riana) Ons wens almal ‘n spoedige herstel toe.
ALGEMENE NUUS

Rina Wolmarans het Gamtoosmond verruil vir Grahamstown.

Milda en Willem Oostuizen se dogter se drieling is gebore. Baie geluk .
NUWE INTREKKERS

Die Vosloos in fase 1 is nou permanent hier. Baie welkom.

The Seaton – Smith’s are busy building their house and will move in soon. A hearty welcome to you.

COMPLAINT FROM OLGA BRAUDIE ERF 310

This is not a very good advertisement for our Resort !!

The following items were stolen from her property :

A whales spinal vertebra.

Some unusually shaped rocks.

A lot of whale bones that she had collected and displayed in her garden.

If you have any information to offer about the missing items please contact Olga on Cell no : 082 442 3837.

Thanking you in anticipation.
ADVERTENSIES/ ADVERTISEMENTS

LIFT CLUB FROM GAMTOOSMOUTH TO P E CONTACT 082 556 0517 Handees Hardware & Tool HireContact Manie Venter at Thornhill at 083 350 4719 or 073 820 6368

Gio’s Timber ConstructionThey specializes in Log Homes.Contact Giovanni at 084 655 6638 PAINTING AND HANDYMANContact Michael at Plot 193 Cell: 083 262 9401

BOAT FOR SALE3 meter boat on trailer. 9.9 HP engin. R10,000 or nearest offer. Contact Clyde Bradley on 073 156 0624 BOAT FOR SALE6 meter boat on galvanized trailer with new tires. Open top. Includes fuel tank. 40HP Suzuki engine. R11,000 or nearest offer. Contact – Lorraine on 072 256 0560

FOUND

A large bunch of keys were found by Clyde Bradley. Please contact him on 073 156 0624.

AUTOMATIC ENTRANCE GATES - CELL PHONE ACCESS

This system is run exclusively by Bruce Rabinson for his account. Please contact him directly on cell 084 619 4927 for all the necessary information and questions you might have.

FROM OUR SCRIBE

This will be my last NEWSLETTER. Hopefully Cal Seton Smith will take over. (Lets chat about it again some time). As ex Editor of the Herald you are the right person to write the NEWSLETTER. I am sure the residents will in future receive a well structured letter.

The Association would like to take this opportunity to thank René Van Vuuren for her enormous contribution to the NEWSLETTER. Her input, compassion and optimism will be sorely missed.

ASSOCIATION OFFICES: PO BOX 6267, WALMER, 6065 - 1ST FLOOR BLOOMINGDALES OFFICE PARK, CORNER 9TH AVE AND MAIN ROAD, WALMER. TEL: [phone] FAX: [phone]

RESORT MANAGER 071 981 9592 ASSISTANT MANAGER AND WEEKEND MANAGERS 076 072 4751

email: [e-mail] website: www.gamtooshomeowners.co.za

SCRIBE - TO BE ADVISED ON NEW APPOINTMENT.

12/7/2010

GAMTOOS MOUTH RESORT HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER 37
After the 47th Board meeting was held on Thursday the 2nd of September 2010. I now report as follows:

Spring is in the air, the weather is warming up, and like a rising tide, spirits are lifting here at the tranquil haven we call the Gamtoos Mouth Resort. The number of permanent residents has grown to 82 households, and it won’t be long before those weary souls from the Highveld start their annual migration to the coast to bask on the golden sands of the beach, and to deeply breathe the tonic that is provided by a fresh south-easter.

And to think, we have it all year round. Who says life has to be fair.

The seasons bring changes and one is the ushering in of a new scribe with this NEWSLETTER. More about that later. Let’s talk about the important stuff first.

THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF GMHOA WILL TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY THE 13TH OF NOVEMBER 2010 AT 14H00 IN THE BARN AT THE KASPERSKI’S HOUSE.
GOOD NEWS FOR PHASE ONE – TARRING OF THE ENTRANCE ROAD

It’s official. The Contractors have been given the go ahead to get on with tarring the entrance to Phase One following a survey of GMR homeowners. Three options were under consideration.

a) To revert to the original entrance between the properties of Colin McDonald and Norman Grobler. This road is already tarred. There was however some concern that these homeowners would be constantly badgered by inquiries, and by people not in possession of remotes, wanting access. It also meant that current traffic flow would have to be reversed, which was likely to cause confusion. Heavy traffic would have had to use the current access, which would have meant locking and unlocking.

b) To tar the current access and retain the status quo. Half of the cost would come from the Homeowners Association’s reserve funds, and half would be paid by the Developer. The cost is estimated to be R60,000.

c) A third option forwarded by the Developer was that he would carry the entire cost if homeowners were prepared to wait for the start of Phase Three.

The poll conducted by the Homeowners Association found the majority in favour of tarring the existing trouble spot. At the 47th meeting of the Board of Director on September 02, acting chairman Graeme Rushmere gave the order to "go ahead".

TENT CAMP SITES FOR THE SLIPWAY AREA

At the same meeting a proposal was tabled which, if approved, would see the establishment of 12 well-organised tent sites near the slipway at an estimated cost of just under R200 000. This cost would be borne by the Developer (very nice), and includes site levelling, instant grassing, ranch fencing, road construction, six enviro loos, 12 gas lamp poles, 12 braai areas, running water, taps and cold showers.

The sites would be exclusively for the use of homeowners. Your scribe reckons a committee of homeowners could be set up to manage the facility and ensure that it is not abused. At this stage it is no more than a proposal and the matter will be referred to residents for feedback. If you like the idea, drop Chris a line.
OTHER MATTERS ADDRESSED BY THE B.O.D. MEETING

Water costs:

This thorny issue dates back through eight years of correspondence. The Association has actively engaged Kouga Local Municipality about our entitlement to a 25 per cent bulk discount which is not being currently applied. No one at K.LM. appears to know why we’re not getting the kick-back nor does anyone seem prepared to take the matter forward, except Mr Peter Gerber. The Homeowners Association is considering some tough options.

Meanwhile, let’s remember that water restrictions are still in force and the situation is becoming increasingly dire. Fix those dripping taps, use water sparingly and do not use hosepipes.

Refuse removal and tip site:

Following concerns about how environmentally friendly our refuse disposal system is, the meeting was advised that the current trench, burn, compact and cover system represents best industry practice. The recycling of tins, paper and glass will continue, but resort manager George Gerber reports that a large amount of recycle material has been accumulated and will now need to be specially removed. If any resident sees a profit opportunity in this, contact George. Acting chairman Graeme Rushmere invites anyone with knowledge of a better refuse control system than is presently being used, to present the model or ideas for consideration. On the subject of refuse, please don’t put your grass cutting in the blue bins on Public Open Space, bag it and we will collect it from your erf. Keep all black bags on your own property until collection.

Abuse of remotes:

It’s no secret that remote controls have been abused and every effort should be made to reel this problem in and ensure that access remains for those who are entitled to it. If you have lost one of your remote control devices, see George so that he can establish which one it is and render it ineffective. Those who have given or lent remotes to friends and family who are not entitled to them need to know that access is being monitored, and that there will be a negative backlash against offenders. This is not an "open gate" resort, and those who are turning it into one will be penalised. Rather get back those remotes in the hands of outsiders.

Accompany your visitors to the Slipway. Let’s be responsible homeowners and look after our facilities.
Paying levies:

Homeowners are requested to consider doing this by debit order. It will cut down admin and mail costs and make life easier for all. Be reminded that statements are only sent out quarterly with the water invoices. Levies are payable monthly as per the Memorandum of Association and GMHOA is not obliged to send out statements monthly. Please cooperate.

Post boxes:

Not everyone has bought into the idea of putting up a post box. This is a useful idea which will facilitate our internal communications. Let’s do it.

Staff instructions:

Residents are not permitted to give staff direct instructions. The workers report only to the resort manager. If you have a request, he’s the man to approach.

THE UGLY FACE OF CRIME HAS PAID US A VISIT

We probably live in one of the safest places in SA. You can stroll through our quiet streets at night without being molested, and if you leave your doors unlocked, you will probably be fine. But let’s not be overconfident. In Phase two a few weeks ago Tinus and Annatjie Jameson awoke to find an intruder in their home. They did not detain him. The same night the Seton-Smith’s home, currently under construction in Weaver Way had new wiring stripped from walls and fittings, apparently by the same perpetrator. Our sources tell us that the man is a suspect in several cases, and police were about to arrest him. Hopefully he now resides in a small room without a view. If you see strangers wandering around, please report them to the resort and weekend duty managers immediately. Don’t leave temptation in sight, and before you let any vehicles through the gate, check on the occupants’ destination. Let’s all wise up.

BEACH CLEAN-UP

Well done to Gamtoos Mouth Resort residents who did their bit on international beach clean-up day, on September 18. A record number of 22 people turned up at the sales office to pick up their bags, and get to work. The clean-up was a good opportunity for residents to interact and get to know one another, and at the same time, do something about cleaning up our beautiful beach and lagoon area. Some thought that maybe this should be done every second month instead of quarterly. Thanks to Pieter de Beer, who was the driving force behind this project and to his wife Salome and René who assisted in providing hot coffee and egg an bacon rolls at 10 am, when the "troops" returned with their bags full.

BACK FROM OZ

Colin and Wendy McDonald have returned from a six week visit to their son Roby in Australia and were most impressed with the efficiencies they experienced in that country. Colin’s vision for a resort craft centre took a step closer to reality at the recent B.O.D meeting when the decision was taken to make space available for this project in the old Barnes cottage on the Slipway road. Colin has several pottery wheels standing by, to be put to use by interested residents. Always a teacher at heart, he was a well-known lecturer and innovator in ceramics, but his talent was lost for many years to the real estate world, in which he and his wife Wendy flourished. Wendy is also a gifted ceramicist, and will play a key role in the craft centre. Colin is a talented sculptor, and this no doubt, with other forms of art will form the core activities of the venture. Their son Dean, incidentally, is an award winning documentary movie maker, and has been the man behind the camera in the Fish Africa series, featuring the Alcock brothers. One of these films has a lengthy feature on Gamtoos River fishing. Talented family. Speaking of talent, Pieter de Beer is a wood carver of note. Some stunning examples of his skill are on display in his home. Millie van Deventer is also accomplished in this art form.

RIAAN’S ON FIRE

Local fireman Riaan Senekal turned up the heat at the recent World Fire Fighting Games in South Korea. Along with his brother Alton, the pair brought home a clutch of medals. Riaan has made us especially proud, as he serves as our volunteer fire chief here at the Gam. The world event saw 8 000 competitors from 60 countries competing in various sporting disciplines. Riaan brought home the gold in the hammer throw with a massive heave of 26.5 metres, and was a member of the winning tug-o-war team. Well done!

MOOI SO JACQUES

Sarel en Nellie Gerber se seun Jacques was tweede in hoogskop by die SA karate kampionskappe. Hy is uitgenooi om in Orlando (VSA) te gaan deelneem. Baie dankie aan almal wat donasies gegee het. Hy het ook tweede gekom in die stampkar reisies en was baie trots om met die vlag om die baan te ry. Baie geluk Jacques!

PANDAMONIUM ON THE WATER!

Keep an eye out on the river for Graham Goodwin’s new boat PAN-DA-MONIUM. They say the arrival of this fine craft and the danger it represents with hook and line has so frightened the grunter that they have fled the river for the safety of deeper offshore waters. Go get ‘em Graham and may the PAN-DA-MONIUM live up to its lively name.

TORTOISE EGGS

Spare a thought for that great big mamma tortoise that roams the bush areas of Phase Two. When she lays eggs, she may have to wait for up to three years for them to hatch. She has a clutch of eggs off Weavers Way, which has been carefully demarcated. And she’s been seen making new "nests" not far from there. Those who have been waiting patiently for the eggs to hatch will have to be patient. Experts say that they can take up to three years. Good thing tortoises aren’t in a hurry.

CONDOLENCES Our condolences go to: Connie Meiring whose mother has passed away. Hester Oosthuizen whose brother passed away. Charmaine Gouws whose sister passed away and Faan and Mara Gerber who have lost a brother-in-law. It’s good to hear though, that their son Edwin is doing well after his illness.
SPEEDY RECOVERY We wish a speedy recovery to the grand child of Willem and Henry Grobler who has been in hospital. Others recovering from procedures include Douglas Wyatt, Leonie Nell, Gayle Goodwin and Greitjie Luyt. Also on the mend are Daan and Annatjie Olivier’s grandchild, FC, who was in hospital. We wish them health and blessings for the future.
HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION RULES These were approved by the GMRPA. Thereafter they were printed and distributed to all homeowners and agents in the Resort. Those who have not built as yet will receive copies in the mail shortly.
SPCA MEMBER

George Gerber is now a member of the SPCA and can impound dogs.

CONGRATULATIONS

A handshake and a hug are due to Lucas and Renè van Vuuren, who have been presented with a bouncing grandson, Liam. Their son Etienne and his wife Celeste will no doubt be required to spend more time with the folks now that the family is growing.

THANKS RENÈ Maybe it’s the new grandson she wants to make time for, or maybe she just needs a break, but Renè has finally decided she’s sharpened her pencil for the last time, and has handed the baton to a weary newspaper hack, who after more than 40 years in journalism headed for the hills of the Gamtoos Mouth Resort to escape the crazy world of breaking news, insanely corrupt politician, and threats of media curbs.

What fun it has been to prepare this news letter after all that scary stuff that is part and parcel of an editor’s life.

Thanks to René for walking me through the first steps of this project, and for the contribution of various snippets of news. We won’t say we’re going to miss her, because she will still be with us. And she will still be contributing. Just as she volunteered me for this job, I lay claim to her future services. Touchè en baie dankie.

Cal

Drop us a line about your news: [e-mail]., or phone [phone].

KEY NUMBERS

Gamtoos Mouth Resort Homeowners Association: Tel: [phone]; Fax: [phone] Resort Manager (George) 071-9819592 Fax: [phone], Assistant Manager and Weekend Managers 076-0724751. PO Box 6267, Walmer, 6065 email: [e-mail] website: www.gamtooshomeowners.co.za Directors Angela Stockley 072 510 3983 email: [e-mail] Zane Hayes 082 774 8198 email: [e-mail]
GAMTOOS MOUTH RESORT HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER 38
TIME TO CHILL OUT THE resort has steadily been filling up as holidaymakers have arrived for the Christmas break. The four by fours have been rolling in with boats in tow – big boats with big engines, ready to take to the pristine waters of the Gamtoos. It’s been a tough year and the break is well deserved, so we welcome those absentee homeowners to paradise for a time of regeneration and relaxation. They will notice some improvements, such as the tarring of the entrance to Phase one, and the work that has been done on the slipway road. In this, the 38th NEWSLETTER of the Homeowners’ Association, your scribe will report back on the recent Annual General Meeting, along with the 48th meeting of the Board of Directors, and a few items of general interest. Fishing: To all holidaymakers as well as permanent residents this is probably a good time to consider bait and bag limits as we makes use of the wonderful natural resources to which we have access. Remember, your kob limit is one fish a day, minimum size of 50 cm. We are allowed five spotted grunter a day, minimum size of 40 cm. For those who will ply the surf, the leerie (2 fish limit, minimum size 70 cm) and elf (4 fish limit, minimum size 30 cm) should be on the bite. The guys have been making good catches of leerie with live mullet, so if you’re prepared to work for your fish, this is a good option. Also watch bait limits. Let’s look after the resource for next year and for the sake of future generations. A good policy is to take out no more bait than you can use, but just to be safe, any of the tackle shops will be able to give you a full list of bait and fish limits.

As the festive spirit descends we wish all a blessed and joyous time with family and friends, and remember, let’s be careful. Life is beautiful if you can find peace in these frenetic times. If that is your intention you have come to the right place.

Annual bonfire:

An event not to be missed will be the lighting of the traditional bonfire on Grunters Green at midnight on December 31, to see the New Year in. Bring bubbly and chops and let’s celebrate together. The bonfire has been a feature of Gamtoos Mouth for the past 40 years. Zane Hayes is the Director in charge.

48th MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

With Colin Rushmere in the chair, the final meeting of the year was fairly brief and to the point. Listed below are the main points. 2011

Levies:

The monthly levy is to increase from the current R160 to R185 a month. It’s not a decision that was lightly taken. Costs are constantly on the rise, and this was considered to be a necessary hike to keep the HOA abreast of needs in 2011.

Expenses reported at the AGM were increased to make provision for the possibility of taking over the management of the Kouga Camping Ground. The net projected annual expenditure to be covered by levies now totals R1@061,640 up by about R158,000 on the current years budget. This amount is to be raised from 450 owners in Phases one and two, and so the contribution per erf should be R196.60 a month. Levy was agreed at R185 per month. This will leave us with a projected deficit of R62,640, which may be absorbed by careful cost containment. The final budget is attached.
Speeding:

It has been noted that some drivers have been taking advantage of the newly tarred entrance to Phase one, to turn on the speed. Children walk this road to the Play Park. Please slow down! Good news is that a speed hump will be erected in the New Year to pacify our local drag racers.

Water Saving:

Not all will be aware of the serious water shortage being experienced throughout the province. Use of hoses is still prohibited, and all residents and visitors are encouraged to use water sparingly.

Building close-down:

The annual building close-down will be enforced from December 15 to 10 January 2011. To ensure that the break is as peaceful as possible there will be no construction allowed then. Christmas hampers: Salome de Beer is making her rounds to collect funds to ensure that the resort staff get decent hampers for Christmas. It’s a good initiative and it ensures that they and their families will also have something to celebrate about. Thank you to those that have already given so generously.

Telephone, email and internet connectivity: Following a presentation at the AGM by True Technologies of Jeffreys Bay, responses from interested parties are now awaited to see if the scheme for improved connectivity will be viable. To make it worth the service provider’s efforts, at least ten subscribers will be needed from Phase one and ten from Phase two. Installation per site will cost ±R1450, which will include individual boosters and the installation of a tower at a high vantage point in Phase two and in Phase one. All subscribers will need to have "line of sight" and the system is claimed to be at least on a par with ADSL. Monthly rates are competitive. A full report from True Technologies is attached to this NEWSLETTER.

Indiscriminate paving: It was reported that indiscriminate paving of plots has taken place in Phase one, resulting in rain water run-off swamping lower lying plots. It has also resulted in the indiscriminate and wanton removal of trees. Home-owners are reminded that the maximum clearance allowed in Phase one is 60 per cent of surface area, and in Phase two, 50 percent of surface area of the site. Those who are turning our environmentally sensitive resort into a concrete jungle seem to have lost the plot (excuse the pun). Most of the trees that are being taken out are protected, so perpetrators are committing an offence. Please play by the rules.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Nearly 50 people pitched for the AGM, held in the shed up at the farm. In contrast to some of our previous Annual General Meetings, this was a fairly placid affair, which indicates that people are generally better informed and mostly satisfied with the performance of those who are in charge. The meeting was chaired by Graeme Rushmere who welcomed the formation of a Ratepayers’ Association, which will liaise with the developers, and represent residents’ interest with regard to Kouga Municipality civic matters.
With no new proposed Directors Zane Hayes and Angela Stockley were proposed and accepted. The Chairman thanked them for their work in the past and willingness to continue.
Rates reductions:

Graeme reported to residents that the Board of Directors was actively negotiating with Kouga for significant rates reductions, relating to property rates, a bulk water discount and the Environmental Management Fee, seeing as many municipal services are already being supplied by the HOA. He said a permanent 50 per cent discount for property rates was probably a realistic figure.

Building codes:

Reporting on the state of the development, he said that 208 houses have been erected, and management is in the process of ensuring that the Building Codes and Regulations were being enforced. He appealed to all to adhere to the code. (These guidelines are there for the protection of all. It is obvious that maverick ideas and selfish motivations are not in the interests of all.) Improvements: Graeme assured those present that the HOA would remain committed to the improvement of the resort, citing examples such as the newly tarred strip of road, the fencing of the slipway area, and the improved signage as examples. He said management was working with Angela Stockley in establishing better internet access.

Phase Three:

Commenting on the projected Phase three development, he said this would not, in the present economic climate, be a fast track development. An EIA for 125 plots and business premises was being undertaken. He also explained how the founding principles of the resort allowed the developer to take the resort up to a maximum of 580 plots. An amount of 2.5 percent of Phase three net sales revenue would flow into the HOA reserve fund. He also assured residents that feedback would be sought from the community with regard to the business development. He said this would not be commercially driven, but rather directed at serving the needs of the community.

Financial report:

Chris Egberink’s financial report was accepted without question, and Angela Stockley, who serves as a director, and is also secretary of the Ratepayers’ Association congratulated him on his budget and financial report.

Kouga Camping Grounds:

The gathering was told that the Board and Resort Management had been in talks with Kouga Municipality with a view to taking control of the derelict camping grounds situated on our boundary. No finality had yet been reached, and proposals were still being considered.

Ratepayers’ Association:

Alan Van Vuuren, chairman of the fledgling Ratepayers’ Association was given the opportunity of explaining the organisation’s objectives. He said the AGM of the association would be held in the farm hall at 11 am on December 30th and appealed to home and plot owners to support this meeting, as the association was acting in their interests.

Craft centre:

Ceramicist and sculptor Colin McDonald addressed the meeting on the craft centre which is to be located in the old Barnes Cottage. He said that the place had been cleaned up, and two pottery wheels were now in place. The centre will be for anyone who wants to be involved in arts and crafts, with the intention of bringing such people together. Colin can be contacted on 073-1657664. His wife Wendy, also a ceramicist, can be reached on 082-7748205.

Levy statements:

Are sent out quarterly with the water invoices. Water will be read on ± the 15th of December and the statements will be sent out thereafter.

Property valuations on the Kouga Roll:

Kouga property owners who are unhappy with their property valuations again have until January to raise an objection and apply for re-valuation.@ Full details will be posted on www.gamtoosratepayers.co.za . It is advisable to keep a copy of your appeal and get a receipt from Kouga Municipality.

Beach clean-up:

The next beach clean-up starts from the sales office at 8 am on December 18. Bring the kids pick up your plastic refuse bags and let’s tidy up our beach. Heading up the effort is Pieter de Beer, who with his team of helpers will reward all who participate with coffee and egg and bacon rolls. This when the participants return with their garbage at 10 am. The last clean-up was a huge success and it’s a good way of getting to know your neighbours. Remember folks that when you go down to the water for a swim and to catch a few rays of sunshine, please take your plastic packets and bottles back home. It’s tough enough cleaning up the chokka boat refuse that washes up on our shore line. Beach Clean up dates for next year: 22 January, 23 April, 23 July, 22 October. Dates for fire fighting drills to follow.

Such a pity:

Nearly two decades of effort went out of the window during the recent power outage caused by a transformer which caught fire. The victim was Dennis Lee, whose excellent collection of koi fish went belly-up when the pumps responsible for providing oxygen were shut down. The collection was worth thousands of rands. In fact one favourite specimen was apparently worth over R2@000. Talk about Murphy’s law. It had to happen while Dennis and Marlene were away. Sorry broer. Our hearts go out to you.

The big tent:

Big Ben van Deventer hopes to have his church tent up and functioning before Christmas. It will be situated on the open space alongside the sales office. Ben and others will be bringing the good word to all those who wish to come and worship our Lord, the focal figure of the Christmas message. Drop in to some of the services over this time. It’s about the only thing you don’t have to pay for these days, and you’ll be the richer for it.

Noise pollution:

Sound carries here, so don’t play the loud music too late, or go joy riding on our narrow roads in those noisy, banned machines. Stop, smell the sea air and listen to the birds.

Condolences: Our sympathies are with Willem and Henry Grobler following the loss of Willem’s mother. Jeanette Wolmarans se swaer is oorlede. Pieter de Beer se tannie is oorlede.

We’re glad to hear that: Leonie Nell is out of hospital and back home doing well. Lydia Gouws is back home after a time in hospital and is feeling much better.

We’re sad to hear that: Mara Strydom has been in hospital. Deline Goodchild has been in hospital. Our thoughts are with you.

Congratulations: Mara Strydom’s grandchild is getting married on December 18. We take it she won’t be helping with the beach clean-up then?

Gamtoos Mouth Garden Services: Need help keeping your plot or garden in good trim. For lawns, flower beds and even painting your house, contact Dirk Coetzee on 084 5124961
Thought for the day:

Success is sweet, but it usually has the scent of sweat about it.

Drop me a line with your news at [e-mail] call at 084 7654050.

Bless you all over this time

Cal
KEY NUMBERS

Gamtoos Mouth Resort Homeowners Association: Tel: [phone]; Fax: [phone] Resort Manager (George) 071-9819592 Fax: [phone], Assistant Manager and Weekend Managers 076-0724751. PO Box 6267, Walmer, 6065 email: [e-mail] website: www.gamtooshomeowners.co.za Directors Angela Stockley 072 510 3983 email: [e-mail] Zane Hayes 082 774 8198 email: [e-mail]