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        <title>Sylvia's Sedgefield Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html</link>

        <description>Sylvia's blog about whatever catches her attention around Sedgefield be it birds, animals or people, happenings or adventures.</description>
        <language>en-us</language>
        <category>Sedgefield</category>
        <pubDate>Fri, 5 Apr 2024 16:57:59 -0400</pubDate>
        <lastBuildDate>Fri, 5 Apr 2024 16:57:59 -0400</lastBuildDate>
        <copyright>discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com</copyright>
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            <title>Apr  5, Mandala Integrative Health</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html#Mandala-Integrative-Health</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6c425d22c4f88f9bd772609e0d02a813</guid><description>&lt;img and src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/mandalaintegrativehealthlogoblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Mandala Integrative Health Centre  blog&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;421&quot;/&gt;

In March 2023, a new healing space was birthed in Sedgefield called Mandala Integrative Health Centre. It's a dream Anuska Viljoen has had that's been more than two decades in the making. 

The goals are,
1. to work in harmony with nature co-creating with the intelligence and wisdom inherent in natural systems.
2. To foster community values that respect all beings with a culture of compassion, understanding and acceptance.
3. To aim to live lightly on the earth through sustainable practices such as organic gardening, renewable energy use and ecological building techniques.
4. To provide opportunities for personal growth and transformation through workshops, retreats, and spiritual practices aimed at deepening self-awareness and awakening to one's true potential.
5.  To make it a collaborative venture to facilitate a New Earth vision of cohesion, order and harmony moving towards wholeness and optimum well-being for all - people, animals, and the planet.

&lt;a href=https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/mandala-integrative-health-centre.html&gt;
Continue reading &quot;Mandala Integrative Health Centre&quot; &lt;/a&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 5 Apr 2024 11:19:10 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan 26, Historic Swartvlei Beach Cottages Restoration</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html#Historic-Swartvlei-Beach-Cottages-Restoration</link><guid isPermaLink="false">d26ec672df02b223b93fd4aa435220e5</guid><description>&lt;img and src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/milkwoodcottageblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Milkwood Cottage blog&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;301&quot;/&gt;

The abandoned houses at Swartvlei Beach bothered a Knysna businessman every time he passed them to spear-fish at Gerickes Point.

Eventually, he tracked down the owners and an agreement was made for him to renovate them for use as holiday accommodation. 

They could not have landed in better hands.
Nic Kruger is an expert in restoring old wooden objects - it is his passion...  

&lt;a href=https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/historic-swartvlei-beach-cottages.html&gt;
Continue reading &quot;Historic Swartvlei Beach Cottages&quot; &lt;/a&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Nov 19, Revive Sedgefield</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html#Revive-Sedgefield</link><guid isPermaLink="false">e468321a0337c3d83063f2f638a432ed</guid><description>&lt;img and src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/revivesedgefieldblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Revive Sedgefield blog&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;268&quot;/&gt;

In 2022, the newly formed Revive Sedgefield Team immediately set to work with enthusiasm, determination and resourcefulness to improve the rundown areas of the town centre.

Their first project was creating an indigenous garden around the J.G.B.Memorial Library and filling empty pots with flowering plants. 
The Team intended to create gardens wherever there was a viable space to present a welcoming face to residents, visitors and people passing through...

&lt;a href=https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/ReviveSedgefieldCommunityProjects.html&gt;
Continue reading &quot;Revive Sedgefield Community  Projects&quot; &lt;/a&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 19 Nov 2023 15:59:03 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Jul 29, Sedgefield Mosaic Art Project</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html#Sedgefield-Mosaic-Art-Project</link><guid isPermaLink="false">1f7bdde8322cbc0c2d2904e26125dfe7</guid><description>&lt;img and src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/blogphotoformosaicartproject.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Sedgefield Mosaic Art Project&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;399&quot;/&gt; &lt;br&gt;

Thanks to the inspiration of long-time resident, Di Young, the stalwart support of local entities and the dynamically driven local NPO, Masithandane, who was willing and able to grab hold of the concept and activate Di’s vision, Sedgefield Mosaic Art Project was birthed. 

In no time potential crafters were found and trained and as the project took wings,  artworks began to grace our little village and were being spotted all over the place. House numbers at residents’ gates, pot planters and larger commissioned artworks made an appearance in public spaces. 

Besides the many private mosaic artworks such as mirrors, bird baths, plant holders, wall hangings, etc. there are currently 66 public mosaicked artworks (and more in the pipeline) that can be traced along a self-drive mosaic route around Sedgefield or a tour guide, one of the mosaicists can be arranged with prior notice...

&lt;a href=https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-mosaic-art-project.html&gt;
Continue reading &quot;Sedgefield Mosaic Art Project&quot; &lt;/a&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Dec  7, The Parrotts in Sedgefield</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html#The-Parrotts-in-Sedgefield</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5ea881480b0438d26b2688ad59b20252</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/noelandpaulineparrott.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Noel and Pauline Parrott&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;292&quot;/&gt; &lt;br&gt;
It was by sheer chance, a school teacher, Pauline Ballenden, working at a school in Natal came home for the holidays to her parents’ house in George and decided to attend a formal social event, where she met an engineer, Noel Parrott from the UK, who had been posted to the Airforce Training School there for a short period. 

It wasn't long before they fell in love and decided to get married in the middle of World War II although Noel knew his position in South Africa as an aircraft training instructor was temporary. 

Not long afterwards, he was posted to Aden in Arabia and Pauline would not see him again until he returned to London in 1944 and she flew over to be with him…

&lt;a href=https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/parrotts.html&gt;
Continue reading &quot;The Parrotts in Sedgefield&quot; &lt;/a&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 7 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Nov 23, Thomas Dunbar Moodie</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html#Thomas-Dunbar-Moodie</link><guid isPermaLink="false">14133ef45c3437b4b5d2bbca2460e43f</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/moodiessaleplanblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;TDM's Town Plan for Sedgefield&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;402&quot;/&gt; &lt;br&gt;
On 14 June 1817, Captain Benjamin Moodie arrived in South Africa from the Orkney Islands off the coast of Scotland on the ship, Brilliant.

As one of the forerunners of organized immigration to the Cape, he brought with him more than 200 indentured artisans to contribute their skills to the young, under-resourced Cape colony.
 They arrived in groups in three different ships during 1817. 

The Captain first settled on a farm at Grootvadersbosch near Swellendam that his son Donald would inherit and eventually Thomas Dunbar Moodie. 

One of 11 children, Thomas Dunbar Moodie would complete high school in George and study further to qualify as a Land Surveyor.

In 1926, he was appointed by Salmon Terblans, owner of a large farm between the Groenvlei and Swartvlei Lakes, to lay out a town plan for the development of Sedgefield…

&lt;a href=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/thomas-dunbar-moodie.html&quot;&gt; 
Conitinue reading &quot; Thomas Dunbar Moodie&quot; &lt;/a&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 23 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Sep  2, Poetry reminding me to Appreciate Every Day.</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html#Poetry-reminding-me-to-Appreciate-Every-Day</link><guid isPermaLink="false">56df17241ab2abe0fac702be41cedb54</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/surrealbeachwalk.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Surreal Beach Walk&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;344&quot;/&gt; &lt;br&gt;
When rocks look like islands and waves look like clouds – a photo that looks like a surreal beach walk.

 It is so good to be able to walk freely on the beach again after it had been abruptly closed to everyone just before Christmas.

 This covid pandemic reminds me constantly to be thankful for seemingly simple pleasures I normally take for granted. Sometimes it feels wrong to be happy and contented when I know many people are suffering and struggling to survive, living on the brink of desperation. I wish I had a magic wand that could put the world right.

I'm now so much more aware of many things to be grateful for daily  – hot water, a warm bed, food to eat, people who share my life and care about me, a little adopted cat whose antics make me laugh and a home to call my own in this little town of Sedgefield. 

Surrounded by unrivalled beauty. It bolsters my spirit and is food for the soul. 

My poetry page reminds me of good times,  ​that they will return and how, in difficult times, I have always found comfort and solace in nature.

&lt;a href=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/poetry.html&quot;&gt;Go to my Poetry Page&lt;/a&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 2 Sep 2021 07:22:51 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Aug 17, Sedge Ratepayers' Support  for COP-Herotel Security partnership</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html#Sedge-Ratepayers-Support-for-COP-Herotel-Security-partnership</link><guid isPermaLink="false">cd02ee698fac6487c600dc069f809674</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/herotel.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Herotel Fibre&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;400&quot;/&gt; &lt;be&gt;
COP (Community Orientated Policing) has reported that after a recent meeting with Herotel Senior Management in Sedgefield, they have willingly agreed to enter into a partnership with COP to provide additional resources to their ongoing efforts to keep Sedgefield safe.

Herotel will be connecting their fibre to certain community-owned cameras at no extra charge which will assist COP to timeously view specific cameras. 

There are plans to have some of these cameras monitored through a security provider's control room. The fibre will assist in making the network more reliable for monitoring and 'after the fact' reviewing.

This partnership takes COP's community CCTV camera project to a whole new level. 

Sedgefield Ratepayers Committee would like to say a big thank-you to Johan and COP  together with the Herotel team for their determined commitment towards reducing crime and improving  Sedgefield's security.</description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 17 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jul 28, Colin Capon -International Celebrity Chef</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/chef-colin.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">b30dbbe8a015d4270993b405101e224d</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/chefcolinblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Chef Colin blog&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;400&quot;/&gt; &lt;br&gt;
After Colin had completed 24 amazing years as a chef in the RAF, he had a wealth of experience under his belt. He decided it was time to pursue an independent career as a freelance chef. 

Already well-travelled, and with many awards and accolades to his credit, his career went from strength to strength taking him to every continent except Antarctica and a good many countries on each of those continents. 

His travels included several work-related trips to South Africa and on a number of occasions, his wife accompanied him. They found themselves falling in love with South Africa and after a few trips to the Garden Route, the area captured their hearts.

This led to a joint decision to buy a house here in 2005 with the possibility of making it a retirement option and so since 2010 we have had an International Celebrity Chef living in Sedgefield…</description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 28 Jul 2021 13:35:53 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Apr 30, Sedgefield Ratepayers and Residents Association</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-ratepayers.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">5bc0d2580d0e8fbbb81ce55cf09566f0</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/blogpicsrandra.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Sedgefield Ratepayers&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;306&quot;/&gt; &lt;br&gt;
Winter is on its way but there is a new spring in the step of Sedgefield’s Ratepayers and Residents Committee. 

After an impressive turn-out at the belated 2020 AGM held in March 2021 due to Covid 19 restrictions,  a number of younger, enthusiastic committee members, with fresh eyes and ideas of their own and those gleaned from personal knowledge and their relationships with people in their spheres of activity, have come on board.

It has allowed a few faithful long-standing members to be relieved of their duties and responsibilities. At the same time, it is invaluable for the needs and concerns of all Sedgefield’s different sectors of the community to be represented on the Committee so it can better serve its’ purpose for the town.</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 30 Apr 2021 18:39:45 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Apr 23, Holidays in Sedgefield 1954 -1980's </title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/holidays-in-sedgefield-1954-1980s.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">2668bfd52206a2e133183e8b7320b14d</guid><description>In 1954 my grandparents, Gabriel &amp; Lettie de Wet from Williston in the Northern Cape, bought a plot in Swallow Drive. They built a small cottage they called,</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 23 Apr 2021 08:53:19 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Apr 18, Covid 19 Reflections</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/covid-19.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">c228688e13780970b92052264eb402db</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/covid19virus.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Covid 19&quot;
align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;291&quot;/&gt; &lt;br&gt;
The mystery illness first came to light in Wuhan, the capital of China’s Hubei Province in November 2019. Dr. Li Wenliang tried to warn his colleagues on 30 December 2019 at the Wuhan Central Hospital that test results revealed he had contracted an unknown virus. He was accused of making false statements but on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared COVID 19, a pandemic.

Speedily the emblazoned Sputnik shape of the Covid 19 virus was seen as a backdrop to our newscasters on all television channels where it took on the appearance of a monster killer. Yet in reality, it is not even the size of a pin-prick. It cannot be seen with the naked eye and can only be observed through an electron microscope. This type of specialised microscope can magnify a particle up to 1 million times.</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 18 Apr 2021 15:33:28 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Feb 10, Invasive Carp triggers a Groenvlei Rescue Attempt</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/invasive-carp.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">459bf228ed60561724ac9842cc77937f</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/groenvleicarpifsm.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;ISFM takkle Groenvlei Carp Invasion&quot;
 align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;357&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;
On the border of Sedgefield's eastern side, is a turquoise green freshwater lake, Groenvlei, partially fringed by coastal dune forest on its' southern shores and fynbos-clothed dune on the slopes above.
 
For several decades, the picturesque lake has been a favourite fishing spot for anglers and many fishing contests there, have been well supported in the past.

However, the common carp, an invasive species illegally introduced in the 1990s have been growing in numbers to the point of threatening this unique ecosystem. 

After the 2017 fires destroyed Cape Nature's nets, the nets they were using to capture, remove and partially control the carp invasion of Groenvlei, the numbers multiplied unchecked.

In 2018, Johnny Snyman, a local Sedgefield resident of some 20 years, stepped in offering to use an unconventional method, his archery skills, to reduce the numbers...</description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 10 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Oct 23, Gerry Stavros - A Man of many Talents</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/gerry-stavros.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">271498343c2c05bf8aead331fb633b93</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/forestlodgerestaurant1980s.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Gerry Stavros&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;367&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;
Gerry Stavros with his wife and two children arrived in Sedgefield from Kimberley in 1983 to take over the Stop n Stay business and premises. 

At the time it was an overnight motel with separate outside bedrooms, a dining room and a small tea-garden, a superette selling mostly basic necessities, and a room occupied by Standard Bank that opened for business in Sedgefield, twice a week.  

Time has marched on, but Gerry Stavros continues to own it today although many changes have taken place over the last 30+ years to the small Sedgefield village the family first arrived at and became an integral part of. 
Gerry and Kathy have fully retired now but still own and manage the Forest Lodge Complex as many businesses continue to come and go…</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 23 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Oct 17, Lilith Seals</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/lilith-seals.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">9fed5ff7d97e86f5c459cbb7d83c4f74</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/lilithsealssblogphoto.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Lilith Seals&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;414&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;
Lilith Seals has a long history with Sedgefield hailing back to 1950 when the family had their first holiday here. That holiday resulted in the family moving here permanently in 1953, as 3 of their children headed off to university but coming home to Sedgefield for their holidays.

The twins, (Lilith had a twin, Joan) were to inherit a piece of prime property on Kingfisher Drive near the river-mouth. Two houses were built on it, one for each twin and Lilith retired here permanently in 2007.

For the last few years, she has been a busy bee, since she agreed to be nominated as secretary for the Sedgefield Ratepayers and Residents Association. Now it has proven difficult to find someone willing to replace her…</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 17 Oct 2020 08:08:41 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan 24, SedgeNews</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgenews.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">7afb805b3604f4403a7d630fa548ab9f</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/sedgenewsblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;SedgeNews&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;295&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;
Take a nostalgic trip down Memory Lane with a little newspaper, SEDGENEWS birthed in the late 1980s. During its short lifetime, it served the small village community of under 2000 people informing them of local news and events until the early 1990s. During that period, the Sedgefield population swelled to 3000.
 
Many of the articles reveal similar concerns to those expressed today – the village charm disappearing, the loss of our natural environment, the lack of amenities, the challenges of unwanted developments, but then also the positives, the value of community spirit and appreciation for this nature-oriented beautiful place and the peace and contentment it engenders for those who enjoy living here…</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jan 2020 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan  8, Swartvlei Campers</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/swartvlei-campers.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6b880e93057ef639c32bee44f12cbfc1</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/swartvleicampersblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Swartvlei Campers - their History&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;333&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;
Since the early 1800s and long before Sedgefield had its name on the map, farmers and their families in the area of Ruigtevlei, Elandskraal and further afield like Oudtshoorn, would trek for days by ox-wagon to gather at a place called Swartvlei, i.e. on the sandy shore of the Black River (called this because the colour of the sediment in the water made it look black)  to camp for 3-4 weeks over the Christmas season. 

The farmers were taking a much-needed break from the rigour and challenges of their physically demanding daily existence to relax and enjoy some camaraderie with family and friends on the banks of the meandering Swartvlei Lagoon.

They would indulge in simple pleasures, swim, fish and play &quot;boere sport&quot; on the beach and in the ocean behind the campsite. Although many had large families, social interaction was minimal in those early days because farms were spread out far and wide. There were no easy ways of communicating and roads were virtually non-existent.

These gatherings were an opportunity to experience a sense of community...</description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 8 Jan 2020 23:42:05 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan  5, Ensle Syphus</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/ensle-syphus.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">709c393cc9432dcc9b5fbef0cd5aa418</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/enslesyphusblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Ensle Syphus&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;505&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;
When Ensle Syphus and her husband Matt retired to Sedgefield in 1979, it wasn’t long before they became involved in the small close-knit community.

When ex-mayor, Fred Hawkins discovered that she had been a high school history teacher and written a number of textbooks, he prevailed upon her to undertake the task of researching and writing the early history of Sedgefield.

He told her that existing records and documentation prior to 1968 had been destroyed in a fire. 

Ensle was up to the task and got stuck in with enthusiasm and determination. She visited local libraries, wrote to the Reference Department of the South African Library in Cape Town and interviewed members of several pioneer families such as the Barnards, Elaine Watney, Bob Morris, the Robertsons,  Mullers and others.</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 5 Jan 2020 03:56:37 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Dec 13, Holmes -Talented Smutsville Artist</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/Holmes.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6c7e16d234caddc2c806216c48dd0564</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/holmesblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Holmes Smutsville Artist&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;400&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;

Studio 42 is currently hosting a Performance Exhibition for local talented Smutsville Artist, Houghmordeen Jansen. It's called  &quot;Holmes at Home&quot; since he's returned from a stint at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) where he achieved a diploma in Graphic Design.

Running from 11 to 20 December from 4 pm to 8 pm his exhibition includes, among many other paintings, prints and some originals from his &quot;Sedgefield Collection&quot;.

The exhibition is also supported by some live music and a young troupe of Smutsville dancers.</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 13 Dec 2019 02:54:37 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Oct 27, Rondevlei Learning Centre</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/rondevlei-learning-centre.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">9f2512c1bb04e4d21108dedb7fdec2f7</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/jukanivisitforblog.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Jukani Visit&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;425&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;

Rondevlei Learning Centre is an off-shoot of the Wendy Immelman Foundation, ACTS (A Centre that Serves). Carol Van Zyl and Vinessa Van Rensburg have taken on the project of offering a number of children struggling to learn, an innovative “life skills curriculum” that allows them to find and explore their own innate interests and talents beyond those subjects taught in the over-crowded standardised government classroom.

Ranging in ages from 7 to 16 they are absorbing information easily and finding learning can be fun as they are being taught in this unconventional, practical and experiential way,

Exposed to all kinds of activities inside and outside of the classroom and interacting with different people, all kinds of animals and the environment, these children are blossoming as they are being encouraged to believe that the sky is the limit...</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 27 Oct 2019 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Aug 11, The Knysna Seahorse</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/knysna-seahorse.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">e0a253055cb2c9d7861ef0ad631ba6bb</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/knysnaseahorseblogpg.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;The Knysna Seahorse&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;383&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;

The endearing Knysna Seahorse is the only estuarine seahorse out of nearly 40 seahorse species worldwide and it can be found in only three estuaries along the Garden Route in South Africa.

They are the Keurbooms Estuary at Plettenberg Bay, the Knysna Estuary and the Swartvlei Estuary at Sedgefield. It is also the only seahorse listed in the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) Red Data List of Vulnerable Species.

Locals need to be made aware of how endangered this seahorse is and be conservation-minded with the activities they pursue in the vicinity of its'  habitat.

It would help too if SANParks erected a Knysna Seahorse Information Board on the Island or had prohibited areas demarcated around their eelgrass habitat.</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 11 Aug 2019 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Aug  8, Meiringspoort Road Trip</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/meiringspoort-road-trip.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">ce8dd0c69861eda702525605adaee575</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/waterfallsinmeiringspoort.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Waterfalls in Meiringspoort&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;401&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;

The physical drive through Meiringspoort will take you on a historical journey breath-taking in its magnificence as you travel along a road that twists and bends through a narrow gorge for 18kms with the ancient weathered cliffs of the Cape Fold Mountains towering above you.

The gorge is named after Petrus Johannes Meiring who came to live in De Rust, a farming community on the north side of the Swartberg Mountains around 1820. On horseback, he and some friends regularly explored the area.

Eventually, in 1848, he discovered a “bridle path” through the base of this convoluted mountain range. Thereafter he campaigned vigorously for a road to be built through the &quot;poort&quot;. A very rough basic road was completed in 1858 but it was frequently rendered impassable by flash floods as it followed the same route as the Groot River through the Swartburg Mountains..</description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 8 Aug 2019 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jun 15, The Nepaul Shipwreck</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/nepaul-shipwreck.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">db6a28dee53b7a7c7d0c1a7b3fb44fbf</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/nepaulatswartvlei1850.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Nepaul Shipwreck&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;422&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;

An old story with a few extra bits to it that I’ve wanted to put on my website for some time but couldn’t find any historical photos until Sheila Cooper-Collins kindly agreed to do some drawings to illustrate the dramatic event that took place at Swartvlei beach, close to the river mouth on the late afternoon of 11 February 1850. 

For 3 days and nights, people watched anxiously from the shoreline, helpless in the face of strong winds and gigantic waves that ripped the lifeboats from the decks of 546-ton cargo ship, the Nepaul and tossed them in splinters on the beach.

Nobody on land knew how many people were on board the luckless ship that had come into the bay near Gerickes Point and been becalmed for 2 days...</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 15 Jun 2019 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jun 15, Dr Anuska Viljoen</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/anuska-viljoen.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">7af99f26a63fd944ba37c8ed595ca78e</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/dranuska.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Dr Anuska Viljoen&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;396&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;
Local animal lovers are fortunate to have Dr Anuska Viljoen, a veterinary surgeon, who is highly qualified and experienced in a number of different modalities relating to both conventional and alternative veterinary practices living right here in Sedgefield. 

After qualifying from Onderstepoort in 1993, she completed a 2-year post graduate Honours degree in Animal Medicine, Anaesthesiology and Clinical Pathology while working for a PDSA in Soweto.

After that, she spent 10 years overseas gaining a broad range of experience at different practices. 

During that time she extended her knowledge by exploring the merits of homeopathy, homotoxicology, veterinary acupuncture, Chinese medicine and crystal healing among others.

She returned to South Africa in 2005 with a powerful arsenal of techniques equipping her to provide a fully integrated veterinary service for all animals presented to her care...</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 15 Jun 2019 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan  5, Sedgefield Coffee Shops</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-coffee-shops.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">9a1717e8ba2ba8fe07cc3adc4a5ad77d</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/sedgecoffeeshops.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Sedgefield Coffee Shops&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;323&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;
It's also time for me to update my list of Sedgefield Coffee Shops. There has always been a good number of them and generally everyone has their own favourite. 

Ownership has changed significantly in the nearly 12 years we have lived in Sedgefield and in a few instances, the shop itself has moved to a different premises. However I think I'm current with all of these and if I'm not you can let me know...</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 5 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan  4, Sedgefield Restaurants</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-restaurants.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">7ec27b51c751482362a31d7b4dd380c0</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/restaurantsinsedge.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Sedgefield Restaurants&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;294&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;
Things are looking up in Sedgefield that is besides the popular Sedgeview  paragliding site being open again in time for the December holidays, we have a number of really good restaurants to enjoy and that I am thrilled to create a page for on my website...

Whether its steak, pizza, fish, Mexican or vegetarian we now have a number of great choices without having to leave town. In fact one has to book ahead to be sure of getting a table if you really want to get in at your favourite restaurant.</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 4 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Dec 29, Sedgefield Beaches</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefieldbeaches.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">74a4f348f5ecf5015f986e8c23d614d4</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/funatmyolibeach.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;December Holiday fun at Myoli Beach&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;308&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;

Glorious sunshine arrived in-sync with the December holidays and dished up perfect beach weather for our visitors to enjoy the sand and the sea.

The recently opened river mouth has also provided safe bathing with some fortuitous sand banks in the right places and wonderful opportunities to surge in and out with the tide along the estuary near the mouth which is exhilarating, good exercise and great fun! 

Walking, picnicking, surfing, fishing, swimming -its all here - with our wonderful beaches being the space for families and friends to enjoy these rejuvenating activities.</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 29 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Dec  3, Zanne's Small Art Studio</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/zannes-small-art-studio.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">fe25aade3e7142df8c4e459a636f0bec</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/zannesdecexhibition.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Zanne's Dec 2018 Art Exhibition&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;372&quot;/&gt;&lt;br&gt;

Zanne's December 2018 Art Exhibition&lt;br&gt;

Zanne is a very talented Watercolour Artist now living in Sedgefield. &lt;br&gt;

She has held a number of workshops at her &quot;Small Art Studio&quot; hosting other South African artists this year.

However, Remax have asked her to allow them to host a solo exhibition of her own work this week.

It will be worth attending as she will have a wide range of quality work available to look at and to purchase.</description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 3 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Sep  8, Travelling Tips</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/travelling-tips.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">f609b77dff2058f28ca71e997b15aec1</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/traveling.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Traveling&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;298&quot;/&gt;
&lt;br&gt;
Whether you are leaving Sedgefield to visit family, friends or going on holiday...
&lt;br&gt;
Whether you're travelling by plane, train, bus, boat, car or caravan, or even backpacking...

Here are some valuable tips to help you make the most of your travelling experience.

Furthermore if you think something has been left out, you can add your own tip to the page.</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 8 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jul  4, Tony Cox - Guitar Maestro</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/tony-cox.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">4e56198f8914c21943ace256e5f4d9e9</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/gaftonycox.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Grahamstown Art Festival Tony Cox video&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;306&quot;/&gt;
&lt;br&gt;
Tony Cox has dedicated his life to his passion, his musical instrument of choice, the guitar.
&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;
Exploring every genre he could, to extricate the best sounds he could, he has achieved acclaim as a unique artist with his instrument, winning fans from as far afield as the USA, Canada, UK and many countries in Africa.

It has earned him the coveted title of &quot;Guitar Maestro&quot; and won him international recognition as a performer, songwriter and recording artist.

He now lives in Sedgefield and we are pleased to welcome here.</description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 4 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jul  4, Mark Dixon</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/mark-dixon.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">7d0374c0ca46d7a413c280c369ea60dd</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/markgrguide.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Mark Dixon Trail Guide&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;400&quot; height=&quot;346&quot;/&gt;
&lt;br&gt;
While running his own &quot;Garden Route Trail' business Mark Dixon has had the opportunity to conduct surveys for various interest groups and companies.
&lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;
With a MSc qualification, many diverse interests in natural history, and a broad range of experience under his belt, Mark has the where-with-all to  undertake scientific studies and achieve quantifiable outcomes.

Mark has carved out a niche for himself on the Garden Route while  living a quality life on his terms imbuing it with a sense of freedom and purpose.</description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 4 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jun 27, Happy Sedgefield Memories</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/happy-sedgefield-memories.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">b335d36d898287eb371f7cc10b9dda6b</guid><description>Derek Suckling recalls happy Sedgefield memories</description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 27 Jun 2018 12:02:42 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Apr 29, Garden Route Walking Festival</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/garden-route-walking-festival.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">df3ff25bc31daf0de7f50224090b1b41</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/dunewalkbb.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Buffalo Bay dune walk&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;230&quot; height=&quot;254&quot;/&gt;

Over the Easter weekend the Garden Route Walking Festival gives visitors and locals alike, the opportunity to walk many wonderful trails along the length of the Garden Route with a knowledgeable guide.

From easy to strenuous, from beaches, to mountains, to forests and sometimes all of that in one walk, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 

Even if you are a walker, there's a good chance you'll find a walk you haven't done before. So, take the opportunity to put your hiking boots on and step out to explore the best of the Garden Route on foot...</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 29 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Apr 15, Tootsie Tourist Train</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/tootsie-tourist-train.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">84e9a9491d96154f1b864b6b3eba2f2a</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/amandarefurbished.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Amanda Refurbished 2016&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;260&quot; height=&quot;298&quot;/&gt;

The Tootsie Tourist Train that was introduced to the Outeniqua Choo Tjoe line in December 1983 could return to work once the railway line has been repaired.

Another of the old locomotives was jointly purchased by private investers, Ian Welch and Dylan Knott and refurbished at Voorbaai, Mossel Bay. This was completed in September 2016 and it has passed its steam and &quot;roadworthy&quot; test.

All that's needed now is for Classic Rail to get the go-ahead for its business plan from the Transnet governance structures so that it can be presented to the Minister of Public Enterprises for final approval.</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 15 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan 17, Zannes Small Art Studiio</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/zannes-small-art-studio.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">fe25aade3e7142df8c4e459a636f0bec-cp</guid><description>&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/blogpagezanne.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Blog photo for Zanne&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;250&quot; height=&quot;252&quot;/&gt;

It is wonderful to have my friend, Zanne living in the same street as us in Sedgefield.

Although we've kept in touch over the years, we never could have imagined that we would both be living in the same small village after leaving Zimbabwe and going our separate ways in 1981 - 37 years ago!

My resilient, happy, creative, artistic, musical, green fingered friend has always been an inspiration to be around so I know that bringing her Small Art Studio to Sedgefield will provide a great deal of pleasure for many people who can share her love for these things.</description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 17 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Dec  8, Sedgefield Bird List</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-bird-list.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">a88087db320722f71cf0b2e2642825f4</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/sedgebirdlist.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Sedgefield Bird List&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;240&quot; height=&quot;207&quot;/&gt;

Birding is a fun and interesting hobby to have. Working or relaxing in the garden or walking along the lagoon, locals and visitors are quickly made aware of the abundant bird life Sedgefield has.

So to raise awareness for newbies and visitors, I have created a bird list with a fair number of photos so those interested can get an idea of what birds we have in our midst, getting on with their little lives as we get on with ours.

I hope it will add appreciation for  many of these engaging and wonderful feathered flyers in the natural world around us.&lt;/p&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 8 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Nov  7, Hopewell Hut S/C Accommodation</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/hopewell-hut.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">50dfa716472962a9babef7e687a705eb</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/thetscottage.jpg&quot; alt=The Cottage address&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;300&quot; height=&quot;218&quot;/&gt;

Peaceful and private Hopewell Hut is a separate dwelling at the Tortoiseshell Cottage address on the Island.

It provides uncomplicated accommodation where two people can breathe deeply and slow down to enjoy simple living. 

Leave the tech age behind and take a break from TV's, computers and microwaves to be rejuvenated and delighted by the glorious freshness of unpolluted nature.&lt;/p&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 7 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Oct 31, Eden Kite Festival</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/eden-kite-festival.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">005e3aae0cc5008db4116663b3451a22</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/kiteflyingeden.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Eden Kite Festival&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;300&quot; height=&quot;263&quot;/&gt;

Kite Festivals are extremely popular world wide and there are many reasons for holding them.

The goal of the Eden Kite Festival initiated by local NPO, Masithandane, is to raise funds for transport bursaries and related school necessities for secondary school children as Sedgefield has no high school. 

In 2013, provincial school  buses stopping running from Sedgefield and back. Tragically, too many children are dropping out of education after primary school because parents can not afford transport costs...&lt;/p&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 31 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Sep 24, Studio 42</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/studio-42.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">70640aad2f755b30207076dc4807a87e</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/studio42sign.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Studio 42&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;282&quot; height=&quot;298&quot;/&gt;

At Studio 42 Melanie Baumeister has provided a permanent venue for intimate live theatre and a reason for the Community Theatre Amateur Dramatic Society to flourish. 

Theatre School is enjoyed by local children who choose to be exposed to many aspects of acting and the creativity and discipline it entails. And, adults of all ages who have the inclination to get involved in local productions can explore the challenges and excitement of entertaining live audiences. Acting is a realm of infinite possibilities!&lt;/p&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 24 Sep 2017 13:12:28 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Sep 16, Good Reading</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/good-reading.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">528b0e2ed459d7e5557d126d284af56e</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/bookcalligraphy.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Book Calligraphy&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;280&quot; height=&quot;238&quot;/&gt;

It's been a while, so I decided to add some new books I've enjoyed to my Good Reading page and remove others that have there for too long. If you haven't visited the page before, I guess you've missed them!

I recently discovered the author, Catherine Ryan Hyde and she is definitely my favourite new (for me)fiction writer. I've read 5 of her books now, all good and all very different. For the rest, its back to my preferences which are non-fiction. Oh yes, except for &quot;The Dahli Lama's Cat&quot; by an ex-Rhodeisan, David Michie now living in Australia. Enchanting book and the first of a trilogy - I know I'll be reading them all! Hope you enjoy my choices!&lt;/p&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 16 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Aug 27, The Sedgefield Hart Story</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-hart-story.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">c8ec2f248e99e3302a01d76ee32dba96</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/agnesonbicycle.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Agnes Hart&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;223&quot; height=&quot;230&quot;/&gt;

Agnes Hart came to Sedgefield from Cape Town to take up a teaching post at the school in the village.

She was a spinster in her 30's and a strong-minded and determined woman. She bought 6 plots altogether over a period of time while she worked in different notable positions in the village. She built a cottage for herself on one. 

She bequeathed this prime real estate to family members upon her death in June 1968.&lt;/p&gt;</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 27 Aug 2017 13:47:56 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jul  1, Garden Route Wildfires-Sedgefield Community Volunteer Contribution</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/wildfires.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">65275be4f616a1c303746d10dbb650f8</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/roadclosedsedgeknysnafires.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Sedgefield Knysna Wildfires &quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;230&quot; height=&quot;206&quot;/

It is impossible to do justice on one page to the catastophic wildlfires that have devastated the Garden Route. In Greater Knysna alone, between June 7 and 14, they displaced thousands of people in 12 Knysna suburbs destroying 600 formal homes, 264 informal homes, damaging 327 houses and severely affecting 90 businesses, many of which may not recover.

They ravaged rural communities and their environs converting fynbos to desert landscape, plantations to wastelands and nature reserves to dust and ashes.
 
The response to these calamitous events set in motion the writing of this page that focuses on Sedgefield's Community Volunteer Contribution. The disaster itself is very ably covered in all its gruesome spectacle by countless Youtube videos and facebook pages. My page however, is about how the Sedgefield community rallied to support those in the front lines of the disaster.</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 1 Jul 2017 18:56:42 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Mar  6, Sydney Press</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sydney-press.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">f3fa89094e585ecde3e8b2265018b7e3</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/spsedgefieldhouse.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Sydney Press Sedgefield House &quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;324&quot; height=&quot;172&quot;/

An academic and a sportsman, Sydney Press decided to forego his bursary to the University of Cape Town and went into the job market at the age of 16. 

Within a few short years he proved he had what it takes to be a successful businessman. He became a captain of the Retail Sales Industry when at the helm of Edgars he opened more than 430 stores countrywide during his 47 year tenure with the company.</description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 6 Mar 2017 13:20:32 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Feb 19, Historic Swartvlei Peninsula Court Case</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/swartvlei-peninsula.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">54a08b41f86fd7aaeead12a134149219</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/newspapercuttings.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Swartvlei Peninsula Court Case&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;300&quot; height=&quot;331&quot;/

In the 1980's  a vast number of concerned citizens were outraged by the news that the Outeniqua Divisional Council had plans to develop a township called Swartvleistrand on the Swartvlei Peninsula across the estuary from Sedgefield. 

Aided and abetted by State President, PW Botha, the plans had been in the pipeline for over 30 years until being made public in 1983.

In spite of vociferous objections from conservation bodies, the Sedgefield Ratepayers, the Swartvlei Campers and some private individuals, the development looked like a done deal....EXCEPT a few courageous extraordinary people determined to take on the State.....</description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 19 Feb 2017 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan 13, Sedgefield Bowling Club</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-bowling-club.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">d5585e43a11a3f6ab9aef036343fdc7e</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/sbcmosaic.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Sedge Bowling Club&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;250&quot; height=&quot;276&quot;/

Sedgefield Bowling Club is situated on the Island - a place boasting well-kept greens and gardens, a chorus of birdsong and an abundance of slow town tortoises.

Bowls is a game for all seasons and a sport for life. 

It provides companionship, competition, physical activity and mental concentration - all qualities reflecting a healthy state of mind and body.</description>
            <pubDate>Fri, 13 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan  9, Slow Town Mobile Meals</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/slow-town-mobile-meals.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">0bdc545876a8becd636e8680b0cb8597</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/jimandmike.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Chairman and Chef Slow Town Meals&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;250&quot; height=&quot;313&quot;/

Sedge Mobile Meals, a charity that was an invaluable resource for other local charities such as Masithandane and The Living Cornerstone, was on the point of closing in August 2014 when local resident, Jim Mitchell stepped in and rescued it. 

The demand for its meals had grown to such an extent that it had outstripped the ability of the charity to supply them and it was functioning with a growing negative bank balance that couldn’t continue.

Some major fundraising and resourceful management tactics were necessary to put the organisation back on its feet again….Understanding the charity’s importance, Jim undertook to do that and by rallying support from local businesses and residents re-invented it and Slow Town Mobile Meals was born….</description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 9 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan  7, Sedgefield Lions</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-lions.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">45bf22a44a589d5a7f218c2649be4f6a</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/logo.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Sedgefield Lions logo&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;212&quot; height=&quot;250&quot;/

Although Sedgefield Lions celebrated its 30th birthday in June 2016, they are part of an organisation that is going to be 100 years old in 2017. It all began in Chicago in 1917 when Melvin Jones, a 38 year old business leader encouraged his local business forum to reach beyond their business issues and use their talents to better their communities.

It was an idea whose time had come. The businessmen agreed and went to work with a will. So much so that today Lions Club International has over 1.35 million members and more than 46000 clubs in over 200 countries. They are essentially groups of people that work among and serve the communities where they live – at grass roots level which is why, as an organisation, the Lions have been so successful.</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 7 Jan 2017 10:18:10 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Jan  4, Peter Cazalet</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/peter-cazalet.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">7fc13b3032f614c58fedfd016ead24d0</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/pc.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Peter Cazalet Accomplishments&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;300&quot; height=&quot;300&quot;/

These days Peter Cazalet can be visited at the Village Art Gallery in Main Street where literally hundreds of fascinating sketches of stage sets and costumes for ballets and operas are stored.(among his and other local artworks) 

They are evidence of his successful working life as an international theatrical set and costume designer.....</description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 4 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
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            <title>Jul 28, The Living Cornerstone</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/the-living-cornerstone.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">11fe9257bcd8f5e17b25817465417173</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/tlclogo.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;TLC logo&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;266&quot; height=&quot;157&quot;/

The Living Cornerstone consists of a number of houses where people suffering from Alzheimers can find a safe haven.

Local philanthropist, Gilda Scammell discovered there was a great need for such homes while involved in her former organisation Sedge Mobile Meals. 

She discovered and was advised of many confused and lonely Alzheimer sufferers when delivering meals to needy folks in the community. Having to go to work and not being able to pay for a carer, family members had to leave the insecure and mentally unstable person to fend for themselves although they were not able to do so.

In many instances, people living with an Alzheimer sufferer do not understand what that person is going through and the 24/7 care they need as their situation deteriorates.....</description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 28 Jul 2016 10:30:54 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Jun 11, Choo Tjoe Update</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/outeniqua-choo-tjoe.html</link><guid isPermaLink="false">0bf9eea10f31f4dac0aa57f3299eadad</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/chootjoeupdate.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;Choo Tjoe Update&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;350&quot; height=&quot;206&quot;/

Work has begun on repairs to the railway tracks of the defunct iconic Outeniqua Choo Tjoe route that used to run between George and Knynsa. Assisted with private funding, the project is being driven by Classic Rail. To create some revenue, it is anticipated that the initial re-opening will commence with an exciting ‘Dinner’ Train.

Beginning at Knysna Station, a slow meandering journey over the Knysna Lagoon with a few short stops in strategic places will enable passengers to enjoy breath-taking evening views of the estuary and town while partaking of a sumptuous 5 course meal. A Class 32 Diesel locomotive will pull 4 dining cars to accommodate 168 guests. The turn around point will be Keytersnek Siding, a mere stone’s throw from Belvidere.</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 11 Jun 2016 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <title>Mar 19, Sedgefield Slow Festival</title>
            <link>https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/sedgefield-blog.html#Sedgefield-Slow-Festival</link><guid isPermaLink="false">2bc6ed400e9fa82de907b7a93e8a3a25</guid><description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src=&quot;https://www.discover-sedgefield-south-africa.com/images/2016slowfestival.jpg&quot; alt=&quot;2016 Slow Festival&quot; align=&quot;right&quot; width=&quot;262&quot; height=&quot;367&quot;/

The count down is on ..to Sedgefield's much anticipated annual Slow Festival. With family fun for everyone, this year promises to be the best yet.

Get your program to check out the events. Along with the old favourites, there are several exciting new ones.... like our own version of &quot;The Amazing Race&quot;, the Lakeside Lodge Chocolate Egg Extravaganza and the Pilipili Standup Paddle Race.

So make sure you don't miss out and join in this year's fabulous Easter fun time to feel the vibe of this friendly laid-back community that love doing it the old-fashioned way!</description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 19 Mar 2016 00:33:25 -0400</pubDate>
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