ZBRRA

Strategy

May 31st, 2008

 

As stated at our AGM  in December 07, Neil Wallace our Chairman promised that our committee would devote a great deal of time and effort to the ‘bigger picture’.  We have started this journey in bringing awareness to the community and are heartened by the interest of residents.  With this in mind, we have employed an envrironmental officer, who is trained in plant id and methods of eradication of invaders.  June will see the beginning of a face lift for Zinkwazi which will only be evident in a couple of months.  The preparation is onerous compared to the execution of the task.  How I wish we could just lurch in, and show you the ‘gems’ under that tangle !!  Here is an outline of our project.
 

30th May 2008
 
Environment Portfolio strategy on Alien Invasive Plants (AIP )
Objective:
1)      To develop a skilled resource within ZinkwaziBeach that can tackle the AIP problem in the village. This is to be achieved through a combination of knowledge transfer, third party training and undertaking eradication and control projects  on a non profit funding basis.
It is envisaged that in time this can become a self standing independent operation
 
    2 )  Action Plan:
 
Employment of Environmental officer
·      Thandeka Ngcobo to start work on Monday 2nd June. She is to work 5 days a week flexi time for ZBRRA . Contract to be written up by WB on advice of Ian Crowther and advice of labour consultant to be sought re UIF. 
·      Her initial contract to be for 3 months trial period.
·      On satisfactory completion of this she will be employed full time by ZBRRA.
·      Her accommodation will be in the staff quarters of Bruce Sawyer, 56 Nkwazi Dr. She will work one day per week for Mr. Sawyer in exchange for this.
·      Training with Mike Butler and exposure to the working methods of Mtunzini Conservancy to be arranged during the initial trial period
 
Tasks to be achieved in the Three month Trial period:
 
·      Affected land to be identified and marked on map of Zinkwazi by T N and WB
·      Municipal. Verge, Municipal Park/Open Space, and Private land to be evaluated as separate target zones. 
·      We will select highly visible municipal areas which are easiest to tackle and develop a plan of action to remove and control AIP. as well as quantify cost involved in doing so. We will share this proposed plan with the councilor, Ward committee representatives and other interested parties represented on the ward area 2 subcommittee with the intention of getting a community based proposal to  KDM to get them to provide funding to execute the work under our supervision. I.e. contract ZBRRA to do the job.
 
Workshop to launch this ZBRRA initiative. By end June.
 
Garden Services – Ocean Echo, Garden Rite, Marie, KDM - Che Gophi and all interested residents be invited to attend a workshop to be held on the verge next to the hotel site on Magai.
Request Mike Butler with assistance of T.N to demonstrate methods of control and removal. Ted Vickers to be invited to give feed back on the work done in March, and to make his services available. 
 
2        Our activities and priorities for the balance of the year will be based on the outcome of this initial action plan .
 

 

 

Posted in Alien Plant Project | No Comments »

Let’s Bring Back the Wildlife

May 29th, 2008

 
 
 

 Thursday, 29th May 08 - More Hippo News

I was called to the local hardware store this morning by owner Donna du Bernard.  She had with her a concerned young man who along with so many others walks daily from Nonoti to work in the village on a construction site.  Eric reported that the journey home along the river is difficult with the thought that the hippo may be in the nearby bush.  Their return home coincides with the hippo’s habit of grazing at dusk along the edge of the riverine bush.   He reported that one fellow in a red t-shirt ‘had the hippo open its huge mouth and bare it teeth at him’   Yet another said it grunted and cavorted around in the water when he approached the river.  Spoor indicate that there maybe two hippo as smaller tracks have been seen alongside the larger ones on both hippo paths leading from water to bush. 

I phoned Cullam Beattie of KZN Wildlife to report the men’s fears.  He said he’d been trying to reach me to say that a hippo was in the surf at Thompson’s Bay near Ballito as we spoke.  A quiet night expected along the Dolphin Coast bush and beaches !!

 

 

 

Tuesday, 20th May 08 - Hippo moves

 These photos were taken by Cliff Hatt on 19th May of a hippo which had walked down the coast from Tugela to Iti Bay.  

We’ve been comfortable in the knowledge that the wandering hippo had left our shores and was back in the Tugela River. Reports that two heads were seen bobbing in the river were fobbed off as ‘old eyes’ until yesterday. I had a report of spoor along our beach. It’s a mystery how it got undetected to the old tidal pool in front of the Sandy Cove/Magai. From there it followed the coast south to Iti Bay. KZN Wildlife who kept vigil, while it wallowed in the surf all yesterday, were adamant that this was a second hippo - identified by the white mark on its head. Before leaving at dusk, they warned the locals at Nonoti of its presence and the fact that it was likely to spend the night grazing along the river. As I write it’s in the surf at Iti Bay……   and another quiet night for Nonoti !!
Wendy

 

 

 
 

 

23rd April brought an old salt ashore - an exhausted seal 

Another unusual visitor washed up on the quiet shores in front of Ocean Reef on the morning of Wednesday 23rd April. The beach was deserted in the early morning. It was when the beach warmed up that beach-combers came across the seal – sunning itself well up above the water mark. This seemed to be an old salt! Its fur was rough and charcoal in colour and its yellow teeth bore out years of wear. Since there were no obvious signs of injury, Hayley of Shaka Marine felt sure that the seal had come ashore to rest. Apparently this occurs regularly on quiet beaches. I was instructed to do no more than protect the seal from human interference and inquisitive dogs. When it had recovered it was expected to return to sea. Caretaker Mbaza Mlambo of 91 Nkwazi Drive offered to stand guard. Francois Snyman of Alpha could not refuse my request and supplied a guard overnight. We were relieved to hear it had taken off by morning. Thanks to Alpha for ensuring its protection overnight.

 

 
 
 
 
 
 On 28th December 07 visitors walking to the beach along Nkwazi drive could not believe their eyes when in an enclosed garden with the gate shut was a relaxed and content zebra.  read on below.  WB
 
 
 

News reports from local radio stations had mentioned that a zebra had been seen walking the cane fields just inland from the N2 near Zinkawzi.   Nobody however was prepared for the sight of a young female zebra calmly walking down the main beach road, Nkwazi drive on the morning of Friday 28th December. Holiday makers wisely closed the wooden slatted gate of the premises she entered at 121 Nkwazi drive and fortunate it was that the lawned and paved garden afforded patches of sunshine and shade amongst the shrubs. The zebra was quite content to swish her tail, stamp her feet and smell the outstretched hands of those that came close enough to touch her. Local residents Sheila Carrera and Tina Groom took up a vigil to keep dogs at bay and to ensure that the gate was not left open by the flow of passers by that called. It was presumed that the animal had escaped from Harold Johnson Reserve some 15 km north of Zinkwazi as the crow flies from Zinkwazi. Staff at the reserve however were adamant that their herds were intact. The help of Helena Fitchet from Ensenembe was inlisted. Helena, an authority on the re-habilitation of wildlife gives of her time to CROW and sources suitable homes for animals after their rehabilitation. Along with assistant Judy Gounaries, Vetinary surgeon Bruce Jones of Salt Rock, and a team of enthusiastic helpers from KZN Wildlife and CROW, a dart brought the zebra down in the late afternoon after a very long day in the hot sun. She will take up her new home under the care of game ranger Edward of Rain Farm, a newly created game farm owned by Douglas Nidd in the hills beyond Compensation. Doug has introduced Nyala, Zebra, Bushbuck, Impala, Grey duiker and Bushpig to the 300ha ranch. Sincere thanks to CROW, their staff, Dr Jones, and Helena  for the ongoing voluntary work they do, and to their donors for the generous contributions that made this kind of costly exercise possible for the sake of conservation. 
WB

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Natural Environment | 4 Comments »

Minutes of meeting - 15th May 2008

May 28th, 2008

 

ZINKWAZIBEACH RATEPAYERS & RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION  MINUTES OF MEETING
 
Meeting:                     General Committee Meeting
 
Date & Time:             Thursday  15th May, 2008 at 16H00
 
Venue:                        Lodge 7, Idwala, Nkwazi Ridge Est
 
Present
Neil Wallace (Chair), Rob Hofmeyr, Klaus Achtzehn, Ian Masson, Craig Dubernard, James Gilleran, Richard Armstrong,  Margo Thiel, , Vic Louis,  Nic Ellender, Wendy Balcomb
Apologies
Dymock Brett, Vic Oellermann,
Minutes of previous meeting  These were proposed by Margo Thiel and seconded by Rob Hofmeyr.
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1.Sufficient members present for a quorum. Minutes of the previous meeting (March 08) were to be referred to during the meeting.
 
2.Portfolio 1 Core Administration Report
2.1 Noted Newsletter well received.
2.2 Noted Notice board much improved, thanks to Margo Thiel.
2.3 Agreed that since Mini-Mall proprietor not the owner of the site, KDM approval to be sought for additional community service board to be erected.(WB)
2.4 Noted logo very well received.
2.5 Agreed investigate possibilities of business cards, T-shirts, peaks and car stickers bearing logo.(WB)
2.6  Agreed: investigate possible subsidy for members to park at Beach
(see    below)
2.7 Noted Website now interactive and progressing well. Membership to be encouraged to view once WB satisfied with info displayed.
2.8 Agreed Theresa Jackson to be thanked and asked to pay Frances Barnard for the site registration www.zbrra.org  once Chair had confirmed registration in ZBRRA name.(WB)
2.9 Noted relationship with local government much improved. Madam Speaker had invited ZBRRA to nominate two representatives on Ward 2 local area committee: Chair and Vice-Chair nominated. At subsequent meeting with KDM we had offered ZBRRA support and guidance.
2.10 Noted Klaus Achtzein’s input: some municipalities encouraged ratepayers’ association. input at actual council level.
2.11 Agreed that WB should investigate forming ties with Dolphin Coast Ratepayers and Blythedale Beach to have stronger representation in municipal matters. (WB)
 
3.Water working group
3.1 Noted Nic Ellender’s input: Sugar bay borehole capped by Ilembe.
3.2 Agreed necessary for the Water Working Group to continue to put pressure on Ilembe/Umgeni to solve underlying long-term water problems despite improved water supply & delivery: Chair to initiate further meetings of WWG if E. Wuim did not do so.(Chair)
 
4. Constitution
4.1 Noted this had been revised by Rob Hofmeyr, based on that of Natures Valley RA, making provision for all those areas which had caused problems in the recent past. Thanks particularly to Richard Armstrong for his input. 
4.2 Noted that legal opinion held that a Sec. 21 company would be costly and not necessary.
4.3 Noted annual audit could be done without the cost of CA – Ian Masson investigating suitable wording in this regard. (Ian Masson)
4.4 Agreed as a general principle that circulation of in-committee email docs would be with clear dating and confirmation that each document superceded previous documents with same title or on same topic so as to avoid confusion (WB AND ALL)
 
5.Mini Mall – Noted Craig duBernard not present for this discussion
5.1 Noted that document on our general proposals had been submitted to D v Rensburg of KDM: separate tenders be awarded to Hardware and Convenience Store and other possible lessees; floor space upstairs be reconfigured to optimize on large area; provision to be made for office for community services/ information bureau and use by Ward Councillor.
5.2 Agreed small working group to be convened, including Phillip Roos, to consider final recommendations once tender advertised by KDM. (Rob Hofmeyr)
 
6. Portfolio 2 Treasury – Ian Masson
6.1 Noted financial statements tabled: for first time expenditure against budget.
6.2 Noted Ian to discuss end of year auditor with Neil Roberts.
6.3 Noted need to ensure that all payments made by WB by Internet approved with signature of one of the signatories.
 
7. Portfolio 3 Municipal Performance. – Richard Armstrong
7.1 Noted several areas covered by Rob Hofmeyr in report on Core Admin
 
7.2 Noted pending are responses to letters sent to
7.3.1 Mr Phiri re recycling depot; matter going to council for final approval
7.3.2 Letter to Lucky with regard to proposed shelter for excess refuse bags near entrance
7.3.3 Letter to Che Gophi re undesirable state of municipal land in village –invasive alien plants
7.3.4 Letter to Nicol Peter re road marking in old areas of village
7.3.5 Letter to Daniel Pillay and Nollie Rabie re hump at entrance.
 
7.3 Noted Beach Restoration slow. Letter from Bing Comrie sent to Louis Bezuidenhoudt re plants used on bank. 
Noted WB to contact Jackie Thompson (C Mendes) re beach car park rehabilitation and her proposals and need for public forum, not simply discussions with ZBRRA.
 
8. Portfolio 4 Security Report by James Gilleran
8.1 Noted individual contributions not forthcoming as in the past.
8.2 Noted R42000.00 from ZBRRA transferred to Security Fund.
8.3 Agreed a pressing need for the Security Fund/Neighbourhood Watch to structure its organization more formally.; letter to be sent to Tyrone Werner to the effect that no further funds will be made available from ZBRRA until Neighbourhood Watch an independent body with own constitution and structure (Chair)
Agreed  Richard Armstrong to take on the difficult task of getting suitable group together and pressing for the necessary restructuring, including all players.(Richard Armstrong)
8.4 Noted report by James Gilleran that showed that security under Alpha had improved and suggestion that by dividing up the village into 3 zones per main road mmight facilitate management of security issues.
8.5 Agreed James to see to possible areas of improvement: need for better lighting near camera, as the light donated by Mr Brauckmann had been removed and an improved calming hump to slow down traffic. (James Gilleran)
 
9. Portfolio 6. The Natural Environment - Neil Wallace 
9.1 Noted Alien Invaders  presentation highly successful and well supported.
9.2 Agreed that a full time worker be employed and sent to Mike Butler (Mtunzini) for free training on eradication of alien invaders and the re-introduction of suitable alternatives; charges for projects undertaken could generate income to cover costs of labour; Wendy Balcomb to recruit suitable person (WB)
9.3 Agreed that the appointee should in due course establish a nursery on Sugar Bay property – donated seedlings for rehabilitation of natural vegetation. (WB and Nic Ellender)
9.4 Noted  Professor Ticky Forbes would be asked to quote on assessment of the state of the lagoon and future use and management (Chair)
Noted Nic Ellender’s view that it was important to canvass the views and wishes of those owning property along the lagoon.  
9.5 Applauded initiatives to revive the conservancy applauded; Peter Saville and Peter Goss to be advised of our environmental proposals.
 
10. Portfolio 5 The Built Environment-in Klaus Achtzehn’s absence Craig    DuBernard. 
10.1 Noted ZBRRA’s ‘Request for Access to Record of Public Body’ denied. Not discussed at meeting on 15/05/08. D v Rensberg of KDM to revert on this.
  
 
Closure – 18H30
 
Next meeting  July - at time to be arranged.
 
Signed ……………………………Chairman N. Wallace
 
 
 
 
            ……………………………Admin manager. W Balcomb
 
 
 
 
 
 

Posted in Minutes of ZBRRA meetings | No Comments »

Environmental Events

May 27th, 2008

Stop the Spread - Lyn Thompson and Ted Vickers

Approximately 50 residents enjoyed a good social evening at Darnall club on 7th April.   Lynne Thompson from WESSA and the ‘Alien Man’, Ted Vickers brought home the need to heed warnings of environmental changes which will effect our water, soil and climate if not controlled. By simply disregarding the proliferation of alien plants in our midst we are destroying the environment. Once more the adage ‘For evil to prevail, good men need do nothing’ is bought to mind.   They stressed the fact that Zinkwazi was in a fortunate position, surrounded by sugarcane fields and the sea. Alien invaders within our village (and several samples were on view) once removed, can be easily controlled. Kerry Strode of Claremont nursery (083-6185596 or 032-525-8787) distributed a list of indigenous plants grown at her Salt Rock nursery which substitute for undesirable exotics, and which suit our application along the coast.   Interested residents are encouraged to contact Ted Vickers (083-7761671 or 031-5681671) for advice on their properties. A sample of his work, a pilot project funded by our association, is the rehabilitation of the site adjacent to the hotel. We hope the results will encourage Zinkwazi residents to follow suite.   Under the vigilant eye of conservationist Mike Butler, Mtunzini has achieved great success In the management of alien plants. Mike has offered Zinkwazi all the help and advice he and the Mtunzini Conservancy can give, allowing us to learn from their many years of experience
 
 
 
Those who attended were  
 
 
 
 
N Wallace
G Mc Cracken 
C Kappas 
Bing Comrie
D Mc Cracken
L Thompson
Heather Comrie
K Achtzehn
Wendy Balcomb
Ken Mc Quade
R Achtzehn
D Brett
W Wallace
H Vickers
Edward Merrick
S Carrera
P Pousson
 T Vickers
Hazel Mc Quade
C Hatt
Apologies from
J Eaton
H Goss
A Leighton Morris
Ntsiki Pakkies
R Armstrong
P Latter
Anne Bindorff
B Masson
T Thompson
U Blom
I Masson
A Heafield
L Cramer
P. Rencken
D Broom
N Cramer
R Rencken
D Brook
P Goss
B Kretchmar
P Saville
D Goss
D Kretchmar
T Acres
J Gilleran
G Bowton
T Potgieter
G Edwards
R Bowton
Di Dold
I Crowther
Vic Oellermann
Di Jones
 M Strydom
D Oellermann
Ann Mc Donelle
K Strode
Hassina Aborbaker
Cherise Akar-Prichard
A Strode
J Pons
Dave Clewlow
G Mc Cracken
M Hofmeyr
 
N Wallace
 
  
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Invasive Alien Plants in Zinkwazi 
 
You are invited to a presentation at DarnallCounty Club
on Thursday 10th April at 18H00
 
 1
 
‘Stop the Spread’  An informative talk on the need to control invasive alien vegetation
by
  Lynne Thompson from WESSA
 
2 
 
A visual illustration of the beneficial results of a pilot project carried out on disturbed land on Magai Drive 
by
 Ted Vickers. Private contractor specializing in I.A.P. removal and control
 
 
3
 
Review of current situation in Zinkwazi Beach and draft map of key infected areas.
 
Discussion chaired by: Neil Wallace   ZBRRA Chairman
 
———————————————
 
 
‘Suburbia is where the developer; bulldozes out the trees, then names the streets after them’ - Bill Vaughn
uMagayi - the Coastal Red Milkwood.
 
 Zinkwazi Beach Ratepayers and Residents Association
Encourages all Zinkwazi residents and those of the surrounding areas to enjoy this social evening. 
There will be a cash bar - snacks will be served
RSVP – 7th April 2008 
 
 
 
 
Zinkwazi Beach Estuary/Lagoon Environment
Invitation to attend a meting of interested Parties
 
 
SUBJECT:       Estuarine Management with particular emphasis on the Zinkwazi Estuary.
 
“WHAT WORKS” and “HOW TO GO ABOUT IT”
 
Facilitator:        Duncan Hay, Centre for Environment, Agriculture and Development        
                                                 (CEAD) UKZN
 
Venue:              Darnall Country Club 
 Date:               12 December 2007, 17:30 for 18:00
                        Presentation 45 mts, discussion 45 mts
 
 
We are very fortunate to have Duncan Hay agree to giving us a presentation on the pioneering work he and the CEAD group have done on estuary management.
 
Duncan is a leading S.A. expert in Estuarine Management and the author of the Publication;” Estuaries and Integrated Development Planning: A Managers Guide.”
Published by the Water Research Council and aimed at assisting municipalities in managing estuaries and their catchments
 
It is hoped that with Duncan’s help we can all agree a Vision of what the Zinkwazi Lagoon environment should be over the next 5 to 10 years.
 
This Vision will guide the future management of this extremely valuable and fragile resource.
 
Please pass this invite on to other interested parties.
 
RSVP 
Wendy Balcomb
Administrative Manager
032-4853553
083-2659631
 

Posted in Natural Environment | No Comments »

Lease of Mini Mall

May 26th, 2008

 

 
The report below relates to the small commercial centre on the corner of Nkwazi and Glen drive.  This building is leased to the Convenience store and Hardware shop below.  The tender for the lease is to be advertised shortly.  We believe that both leases should be renewed in the interests of Zinkwazi …….
 
 
SUBMISSION BY ZBRRA TO KWA-DUKUZA MUNICIPALITY REGARDING FUTURE UTILISATION OF BUILDING FORMERLY USED BY ZINKWAZI BEACH HEALTH COMMITTEE
 
1.      We submitted a letter in January 2007 in this same regard. This submission differs in certain respects, but fundamentally follows the same thinking.
2.      We believe that the utilization of the ZBHC building has to be considered in the overall context of the land use/ town planning scheme for Zinkwazi Beach. This plan has not been finalized and we look forward to participating in this exercise.
3.      In the interim, we suggest for a period of three years to mid 2011,, it should continue to be used to accommodate both a convenience store and a hardware shop. 
4.      A convenience store is highly desirable in the village, both for visitors ,domestic workers, workers on building sites, and for residents.
5.      The hardware store is extremely well used by residents and those with holiday homes. It obviously serves an important need.
6.      The village has a need for an information office. If the current building could be restructured to allow a separate entrance to a space suitable for such a centre this would be desirable. ZBRRA would be interested in leasing such space and utilizing it as an association office as well as providing services to an information office which could be run by a suitably qualified young person from the local community. ZBRRA would be able to assist in the development and funding of such a position.
7.      The Ward Councilor is presently at a great disadvantage in that there is no appropriate or secure office available in Darnall. If she were able to utilize space, e-mail, telephones and office equipment, say on the basis of two days a week, we believe this would enormously enhance her capacity.
8.      The present building has a great deal of space. Ms Wium occupies one large office for her letting business. There is a considerable storage area. However a large area in the “shop” is underutilized. Careful planning and reconfiguration will make possible far more effective use of the building at no great cost to meet the needs identified in 6 and 7 above.
9.      Individual and appropriate leases and rentals should be entered into with each of the commercial and non-commercial tenants.
 
Neil Wallace, Chairman, Zinkwazi Beach Residents and Ratepayers’ Association

Posted in Built Environment | No Comments »

Emeraldine Chicken Farm

May 20th, 2008

 28th May  Our response to the findings of Indiflora  - WB

Consultants have completed the Draft Basic Assessment report on the proposed extension of Emeraldine chicken farm near Zinkwazi.   It is in my office should anyone wish to read the hard copy. After reading the lengthy report, Klaus, who was tasked to make an assessment wrote as follows……..’It makes for interesting reading, particularly the investigation of the potential fly problem. In simple terms my interpretation of the findings is as follows:
·      The only potential issue is flies - there are no other valid concerns for
Zinkwazi.
·      Flies apparently radiate up to 3km from source, but tend to concentrate
where they have suitable feeding/breeding conditions.
·      The consultant has tentatively ruled out that current flies in Zinkwazi are
from Emeraldene. A source of compost nearer or in the village would be needed for flies to use as a breeding ground in order to proliferate in Zinkwazi.
·       The EIA will require Emeraldene to properly manage the Chicken litter
disposal/removal ‘from source to grave’,  to prevent it becoming a fly
breeding ground as this has the greatest potential for problems. This
requires formal management agreements with the farmers collecting and
utilising it as fertilizer in the fields. Obviously local spillage at source also needs to be managed.’
Our good relationship with the farmers concerned will no doubt facilitate this. With their co-operation, we hope to actively monitor the management of the disposal of chicken litter as well as encouraging good management of compost at our nearby horse stables. 
 
 
20th May 08 The following document from consultant, Indiflora, is available to all interested parties.  We will respond after studying their report  - WB 
 
Indiflora wrote ………..
Good Day Interested and Affected Parties

The proposed expansion to the Emeraldene Poultry Farm which was
advertised in the North Coast Courier of the week ending 29 June 2007,
the Background Information Document distributed for this project during
July 2007 and a public meeting held on 20 September 2007 has reference.

The Draft Basic Assessment Report (BAR) for the abovementioned
application is now available for public comment.

A copy is available at the Darnall library, adjacent the Darnall Country
Club, and at the Municipal offices of Kwa Dukuza Municipality, Chief
Albert Luthuli Street, Kwa Dukuza (Stanger). Copies have also been
provided to the Zinkwazi Beach Ward Committee and the Zinkwazi Beach
Ratepayers Association.

Further copies can be provided on CD on request, or the documents may be
downloaded from the web at www.indiflora.co.za (available 17 May 2008).

The 30 day comment period closes on 9 June 2008, and we would be
grateful if Interested & Affected Parties would be kind enough to
respond on or prior to that date to facilitate a timeous Record of
Decision.

After the closing date comment will be collated and included into the
Report to produce a Final Basic Assessment Report for submission to DAEA
for a decision.

Should any additional information be required we may be contacted at the
following numbers Sue George 082 961 5750 or Johan Bodenstein 082 577
0898.

Kind Regards
Sue George 

INDIflora cc - Environmental Services
Johan Bodenstein 082 577 0898 johan@indiflora.co.za
Sue George 082 961 5750 sue@indiflora.co.za

Posted in Built Environment | No Comments »

Newsletter 20th May

May 20th, 2008

 

20th May 08
I have a number of items to bring to your attention – some fun…. like hippo news, and other’s a necessity to keep you informed. Rest assured your Chairman is doing all the right things to keep Zinkwazi well maintained. I will start with the mundane.
Under the post Kwadukuza Municipality you will see our submissions for the Draft Budget are with Kwadukuza Municipality. In this document we stressed the need for funds to be made available for the upgrade of our water system, both supply and reticulation. We also suggested that money be allocated for Environmental issues. The removal of group 1 alien species is not a ‘greenie issue’ but one of fundamental concern. Legislation is in place which precludes the sale of property which is found to have these plants – and for good reason. Their dispersal by seed and runner is so prolific that they may not be removed from their location, but must be dispensed with on site. 
Our letter submitting suggestions for the draft IDP (Integrated Development Plan) for KDM was sent off yesterday. It is also on the KDM page for you to read.  This stresses the need for baseline laws and their management governing development which might impinge on the environment. We have a gem of an asset in the lagoon that must be protected. Our coastal admiralty also needs to be secured. If parameters are not in place, and are not managed, these natural assets will be at the mercy of the uninformed or short sighted. I have attached both documents here for you to read…..its not heavy stuff so enjoy !
The Chicken farm near Zinkwazi has come to our attention once more This document is posted on  ‘Built Environment’.   Your input is encouraged. It reads briefly as follows:
‘The Draft Basic Assessment Report (BAR) for the proposed application for the expansion of Emeraldine chicken farm is now available for public comment.
The 30 day comment period closes on 9 June 2008, and we would be grateful if Interested & Affected Parties would be kind enough to respond on or prior to that date to facilitate a timeous Record of Decision.
After the closing date comment will be collated and included into the Report to produce a Final Basic Assessment Report for submission to DAEA for a decision.
Should any additional information be required we may be contacted at the
following numbers Sue George 082 961 5750 or Johan Bodenstein 082 5770898.’
 
The Hippo photo attached was taken by Cliff Hatt. He took a walk to Iti on the low tide ! Comfortable we’ve been in the knowledge that the wandering hippo had left our shores and was back in the Tugela River. Reports that two heads were seen bobbing in the river were fobbed off as ‘old eyes’ until yesterday. I had a report of spoor along our beach. It’s a mystery how it got undetected to the old tidal pool in front of the Sandy Cove/Magai. From there it followed the coast south to Iti Bay. KZN Wildlife who kept vigil, while it wallowed in the surf all yesterday, were adamant that this was a second hippo - identified by the white mark on its head. Before leaving at dusk, they warned the locals at Nonoti of its presence and the fact that it was likely to spend the night grazing along the river. As I write it’s in the surf at Iti Bay……   and another quiet night for Nonoti !!
Good wishes - Wendy

Thanks to Cliff Hatt for the photos he has shared with us.   Read more in my newsletter dated 20th May 08. W B.

Posted in Newsletters | No Comments »

Security phone numbers 08

May 13th, 2008

 

CRIME EMERGENCY CONTACT PHONE NUMBERS
MARCH 08
 
ZINKWAZI NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH REACTION UNIT
 
ALPHA SECURITY & PATROLS
 
DAY/NIGHT
076-979-2930
Area Manager: Francois Snyman
082-945-7183
 
ALPHA ALERT HOUSEHOLD SECURITY
 
DAY / NIGHT
071-293-3145
CONTROL ROOM
082-898-3854
 
WARRIOR HOUSEHOLD SECURITY
 
DAY / NIGHT
0861-911-032
DAY MANAGER: RASHID
082-454-4451
 
CHUBB(SOVIET) HOUSEHOLD SECURITY
 
DAY / NIGHT
0861-032-911
DAY MANAGER: JONES
083-786-7893
 
POLICE/AMBULANCE/FIRE EMERGENCY
101-111
SAPS STANGER
032-551-8200
Captain Pillay (CID)
073-631-8853
 
ZINKWAZI NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH – UPDATE
 
Alpha Security and Patrols started their 24 hour patrols on 1 December 2007. Predictable increases in criminal activity over the festive season kept Alpha very busy as they became familiar with their latest undertaking. A pro-active approach by Alpha soon displayed evidence of progress. By January crime activities reduced slightly and February shows only 4 significant incidents.
 
Recent events have highlighted the fact that our village has a very old and deeply entrenched crime network. The network consists mainly of live-in domestic staff who are paid, or are sometimes intimidated, to inform and assist the individuals who are actually involved in housebreakings.
 
Infiltration and intelligence gathering are the most effective combatants for this type of crime. Fortunately Alpha has displayed the capability to infiltrate some of these networks and obtain significant information which is then used to form the basis of the approach adopted to expose these undesirables.
 
Here is important information pertaining to crime in Zinkwazi:
 
IDENTIFYING SAFE HOUSES
These houses provide safe haven for thieves and stolen goods. Normally these houses do not get burgled, but stand out amongst a group of homes which are often burgled. They are normally holiday homes with live-in staff.
 
RECURRING BURGLARIES
These houses are burgled continuously. They are holiday homes with live-in staff and the owners never suspect the staff. The truth of the matter is that while the staff may not actually commit the crime, they provide assistance to criminals and then receive a share of the spoils.
 
With individual homeowner’s permission and assistance, the above-mentioned problems can be eradicated swiftly by :
  • searching suspected safe houses after a burglary has occurred in that area.
  • requesting that your staff agree to a polygraph test. This costs about R700 but does ensure peace of mind and could save you a fortune in the long term.
 
Please assist your Neighbourhood Watch if you are contacted, and don’t hesitate to seek assistance (see contact numbers below).
 
A recent armed attack on a farmer and his wife outside Zinkwazi has focused attention on the J.Smit farm compound where many criminals reside. The Darnall Farmers Association, Alpha Security, Kwadukuza Municipality Crime Prevention unit and ZNW are currently working together to provide a sustainable solution for the security problems associated with this compound, hereby fighting crime at its source rather than continuously dealing with its symptoms.
 
On 1 February Alpha placed a response vehicle in the village and now offer armed response to alarm activations - a further extension of their services to Zinkwazi. They have also provided alarm hardware and installations at very reasonable prices. Please contact Francois Snyman (Area manager & Zinkwazi resident) on 082 945 7183 to receive more information.
 
FUNDING
Zinkwazi Neighbourhood Watch is funded entirely by homeowners and residents of Zinkwazi. Thank you to those who continue to support the fund. For those who have not yet supported the fund, please seriously consider the benefits of contributing to this fund. As a guideline, most members pay an amount of R1200 per year / R100 per month. However, any contributions, large or small, are appreciated. Please ensure that you use your name and street address as reference when making a deposit.
 
Please note that annual contributions are now due. Now is the time to become enthusiastic about the recent successes achieved by the crime-fighting efforts of the Zinkwazi Neighbourhood Watch. Assist our efforts by campaigning for support from your friends and neighbours to ensure that we are able to sustain a significant crime prevention programme.
 
Banking details:
 
BANK:              FIRST NATIONAL
BRANCH:         BALLITO – 250102
ACC NAME:     ZINKWAZI SECURITY FUND
ACC NO:          621 0174 9234
REFERENCE: YOUR SURNAME & ZINKWAZI STREET ADDRESS
 
For enquiries please contact:
Tyrone Werner – tysan@lantic.net Cell: 083 457 0990
James Gilleran – jdjgilleran@mweb.co.za Cell: 072 600 2034
 

Posted in Security | No Comments »

Town Planning Scheme - survey results 2004

May 13th, 2008

 Most visitors to Zinkwazi remark on its unique ‘Village Atmosphere’  …Surprising since it lies amidst a fast developing strip of coastal resorts.  Those in the know are aware that the ZBRRA  association ardently uphold and protect the wishes of investors.  An outline of their ideals was made known to us after an objective and comprehensive survey was carried out in 2004.  This portrayed a society who were intent on protecting its tranquil ’sense of place’  Read on…….

WB 

 

ZBRRA

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT of the ZINKWAZI TOWN-PLANING SCHEME
as proposed by the Zinkwazi Ratepayers and Residents Association
15.5.2007
SURVEY RESULTS
The overriding response to the survey was to ensure that the peaceful village character and tranquil holiday environment of Zinkwazi was of paramount importance and there was no place for a Ballito style development. All future development should be eco-friendly and fit in with the ’sense of place’ of Zinkwazi.
Provided that the unique character of the place was not compromised, controlled low impact commercialization in the form of eco-tourism, service provision and recreational facilities was acceptable under the following conditions. Their purpose is only to satisfy the needs of ratepayers, residents as well as local bonafide holidaymakers and guests. Any business attracting casual day visitors from outside the area to the detriment of the village would not be acceptable.
 
ZBRRA COMMITTEE PROPOSALS
The committee has evaluated and researched the survey results at length and has come up with the following proposals to address the concerns and objectives of the community.
 
1. Town planning regulations must be strictly enforced, particularly with regard to coverage and height of structures. It is imperative that planning approval must take into consideration the obstruction of views. With this in mind we would require that no dwelling be allowed to rise more than two storeys above street level, although we understand that this has been relaxed to three storeys in the Ballito area.
 
 2. Rezoning of special residential properties should only be allowable in exceptional cases with the approval of the community. No development generating high traffic volumes should be allowed. Prime special residential properties are under great pressure to be ‘developed’ due to high rates costs and/or profit opportunities. This needs to be addressed to prevent undesirable types of development. Current controls allow an additional ‘granny flat’ on special residential. Special residential development pressure could possibly be controled by allowing a single dwelling for say every 600 m2 of property as long as current coverage and FAR controls are not exceeded. This would enable for example an 1800 m2 beachfront property to erect 3 dwellings without increasing the existing coverage controls.
 
3. All Zinkwazi applictions for rezoning or relaxation of TPS controls put before Kwa Dukuza Planning should be referred to the ZBRRA Planning Sub-Committee for comment. We could also be of assistance in referring to them variances from town planning requirements as regards FAR, distance from boundaries and dwelling and roof heights.
 
4. Bigger commercial establishments(such as hotels, lodges, guesthouses, restaurants, Arts & Crafts & Home Industries) should not be run on residential properties nor within special residential areas. Further approvals or rezonings in this regard should only be considered where commercial or cluster housing rights already exist. Small B & B’s up to 4 rooms, run from private homes and low impact SOHO are however acceptable within residential areas.
 
5. Public beach access points should be strictly controlled to prevent undesirable behaviour, vandalism, crime and public disturbance within the residential areas. Access to recreational facilities should ideally be on a pay for use basis preferably privately controlled.
 
6. The PUBLIC CAR PARK off Seagull Road should be developed as a pure access and parking area without picnic or other facilities. An extension to the car park is essential particularly since the storm damage. Vacant land, which is available in Seagull drive, should be acquired for this purpose. This would also obviate the need to restore the existing car park to its original size in an eco-sensitive zone. The remaining car park just needs to be stabilized and protected. Access should be controled on a 24 hour basis. During the night parking should be restricted to the new ‘off-beach’ parking area to minimise public nuisance problems. The facilities at Mahogany Reef should remain under private control. The container in the car park is an undesirable health hazard and is in conflict with the principle of avoiding attractions in public places unless under Mahogany Reef control and should possibly be removed to a commercial zone.
 
7. BLACK ROCK PARK currently is a public disturbance nightmare. It also should be controled on a 24 hour basis. It is inadequately serviced for sanitation and day visitors have a problem in this regard. This is unacceptable. Leasing out the park to private enterprise could perpetuate the problem of public disturbance within a residential area unless a solution is found. The lessee could provide suitable facilities for day trippers with constraints on maintenance, noise levels and hours of business.
 
8. Lots 224, 225, 226 and 227 in the area between Nkwazi and Magai Drives, are either Municipal property or are zoned for commercial use. In order to protect residential areas from commercial disturbance they should be encouraged to be rezoned residential, with permission for intermediate density to compensate for the loss of commercial rights. Parking facilities would have to be provided for access to the beach from Sandy Cove.
 
9. Lot 243, which is zoned for a church, and the municipal building on lot 39 LA should be rezoned residential and the shops moved to the new commercial area.
 
10. With the rezoning of Lots 224, 225, 226 and 227 the commercial hub of Zinkwazi should be moved to the entrance of the village, probably in the area presently occupied by the stables or further. This would require a developer to acquire land for commercial development. All convenience services and commercial infrastructure should be concentrated on the perimeter and/or access node to the village or in Darnall.
 
11. Our public open space including parks and admiralty reserve should be maintained as green belts. Indigenous bush should be preserved and protected. Expert advice should be sought how best the parks can serve the community. Facilities in our public spaces should be developed but not to the detriment of the surrounding areas. Private functions should not be allowed where they are surrounded by residential areas. Flamingo park on Lot 247, where the developers of the Ocean Reef property have dumped rubble, should be cleared and maintained as a public park. Discussions should be held with Ocean Reef regarding the funding of this enterprise. The same applies to the damage at Oyster Park.
 
12. Surface and underground water collection points should be encouraged on each property.
 
13. Policing of Noise pollution needs to be done.
 

14. Environmental and health considerations require that the village cannot operate for ever on a septic tank system. Consideration should be given to slurry tanks as a planning approval requirement. However this would also increase heavy vehicle traffic and could be a source of noise disturbance.

 

 
Below find links to the independent survey carried out and a map of the village
WB
 

Posted in Built Environment | No Comments »

Reports: 9 May 2008

May 9th, 2008
 

Our letter submitting suggestions for the draft IDP (Integrated Development Plan) for KDM was sent off yesterday. This stresses the need for baseline laws and their management governing development which might impinge on the environment. We have a gem of an asset in the lagoon that must be protected. Our coastal admiralty also needs to be secured. If parameters are not in place, and are not managed, these natural assets will be at the mercy of the uninformed or short sighted. I have attached both documents here for you to read…..its not heavy stuff so enjoy !
WB
 
19th May 2008
 
 
Mr. Mandla Manzini
 
Draft IDP
 
Dear Sir
 
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input to the Kwadukuza draft IDP
 
Of grave concern to our Association is the fact that major development of the coastal strip is taking place without baseline management planning and control of the environment.   
No security of environment, flora and fauna exists. This ultimately will disadvantage the well being and rights of the community.
 
Section 24 of our constitution guarantees;
 
 "everyone the right -
· to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; and
· to have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future generations, through reasonable legislative and other measures that
 
  • prevent pollution and ecological degradation;
  • promote conservation; and
  • secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources while promoting justifiable economic and social development.”
 
There is a failure at present to address these issues, and it is essential that they form an integral part of the IDP and its associated budgets in order to correct this situation.
 
We wish to highlight two key environmental issues which if not addressed now could lead to irreparable damage to the valuable and sensitive natural environment that is one of the key assets of our region, especially in the development of tourism  and related sustainable job creation.
1)       Alien plants - monitoring and planned eradication. This is a major threat in the region and little or no effort is made to control class one alien invasive plants as required in terms of the conservation of agricultural resources act. It is essential that these plans are identified and budgeted for in the IDP.
2)       The Strategic Environmental Analysis report conducted by Sivest dated October 2007 highlights the fact that we have seven extremely valuable estuarine environments in the municipal boundaries. These Estuarine environments are very vulnerable to irreparable damage from development and this is recognised in the new Integrated Coastal management Act under promulgation. Estuarine Management plans that are integrated into the IDP for these estuaries must be developed.
In order to develop such plans the first step is to conduct a Current Situation Assessment and Evaluation covering each of these Estuaries. Unfortunately the information data base for such a survey is fragmented and in some cases so old as to be irrelevant.We wish to propose that plans be put in place and budgeted for to conduct professional Assessments that will form the basis for the management plans for these Estuaries. This survey, which is recommended to take place over a year to capture data covering all seasonal impacts should be completed by end 2009 at latest. (We understand that eThekwini municipality are in the process of conducting surveys for the estuaries in there region and their plans and protocol could form a good guideline for Kwadukuza to follow )
We trust that our input will be given due consideration and will form part of the Kwadukuza IDP.
We as an association look forward to working with you in realising the potential of this region so rich in environmental resources which if conserved, can form a cornerstone of sustainable eco-tourism development and employment growth.
 
 
NM Wallace
Chairman
ZBRRA
 
 
 
The 2008/09 Budget is due to be finalised.  Neil Wallace, Chairman of ZBRRA, today submitted the following recommendations to the Kwadukuza Municipality on behalf of our community.  I think you will agree with me that he has identified pertinent needs for our village.  He has focused on urgent issues only.  Read his letter below…..

WB

 
8th May 2008
 
Mr. Mandla Manzini
 
Draft Budget 2008/2009
 
Dear Sir
The Zinkwazi Beach Ratepayers and Residents Association hereby submit the following recommendations for the coming year’s budget. These recommendations specifically refer to Zinkwazi Beach.
 
1)      Built Environment:.
 
·      That funds be allocated to the vigilant control and management of developments taking place in Zinkwazi Beach and developers and builders be held accountable for actions which impinge on the environment and infringe on current building and zoning regulations
 
·      That KDM prosecute misdemeanours such as the dumpling of rubble by developers.
 
2)      Natural Environment:
 
·      We would like to bring to your attention that large areas of municipal land and Privately owned land within the boundaries of Zinkwazi Beach are severely infested with Category 1 Alien Invasive Plants which are illegal and have to be brought under control in terms of the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act , 1983 as amended 30 March 2001.
 
·      ZBRRA is able to help with this task in the form of skills training. We will be actively encouraging private land owners and the Municipality to bring the scourge under control in the 2008/to 2010 time frame. To do this we need to set the example in compliance with the law on the Municipal property .We request that an amount of R50,000 be budgeted annually for the next three years in order to achieve this
 
 
 
3)      Water: The condition of water supply equipment in Zinkwazi is outdated and in a state of disrepair..
 
·      Borehole pumps, the supply pipeline, non return valves and meters on the supply line are outdated and need upgrade and a regular maintenance programme.
·      Reticulation pipes of three generation types are in use in Zinkwazi. These are asbestos, concrete and plastic.  Supply pipes are bursting or cracking daily at great cost and inconvenience to both residents and to KDM. The water reticulation system and water meters in the village are in need of replacement or upgrade.
·      It is essential that sufficient funds be made available in the 2008/2009 financial year to correct this situation before the 2008 Xmas holiday season. If this is not done the Municipality will once again incur huge out of budget expenses for bringing in water by tanker and for repetitive ,expensive and ineffective repairs to the old system
 
Thank you for the opportunity to make our input to the budget. We can assure you we will assist in whatever way we can to ensuring that money budgeted and spent achieves the objectives of service delivery that we are all aiming for.
 
 Yours truly
 
NM Wallace
Chairman
 
11th April
Until I became involved in this work, like most residents I was unaware of which areas are the responsiblility of KDM, which are serviced by Ilembe, who fills the potholeds on the P403 -  Darnall road and why water issues are in the hands of both Ilembe and Umgeni 
In brief KDM provides services within the village.  This includes road repairs within town (NPA do roads once you leave town)  refuse, signage, collapsed servitudes, beaches and the removal of alien vegetation !.  You should not be paying for sewage. If you are phone me ! 
Water supply is the responsibility of Umgeni Water based in PMB.  They run the boreholes,  and pipe water from the boreholes (4 of them)  up to the two reservoirs at the far end of Sharksboard road.  When we run out of water, they were responsible for transporting it from Darnall by tanker to top up the shortfall.  Reticulation, which is our big bugbear at present,  is the responsibility of Ilembe.  They maintain the pipes which deliver water into our properties, read the meters and spend a great deal of their time repairing burst pipes.  Not surprising when you hear that we have three generations of piping here ……ancient asbestos, very old concrete and old plastic - Oh ! now also sections of new plastic.  So Ilembe spend much water-flow-time going back to Stanger to get more parts "like other one" . 
 
 
Reports from residents …… and I get them from you by phone, sms and email,  are logged on a daily basis and reported by telephone to the relevant authority.  I then write a letter to KDM, sometimes send a photo  and log a report via the ward to this effect.  Progress is slow as you are well aware but one must bear in mind the extent of the area KDM covers, their capacity (that wonderful word) and the greater needs of less privileged communities…. so please vasbyt !
Here are past reports up to the present.  Quite some fun to see how many issues are resolved.  You will note I don’t use your name - so you can sound off.
 
Reports to KDM via Ward reps
date
 Authority Ref Report
08-Feb-28
 Beach B001 Beaches littered at high water mark north and south of main beach. 
08-Feb-28
 Parks P001 River launch area unkept with litter and garbage uncleared since Dec.
 
 Parks P002 Illegal advertising signboard attached to pole at entrance to village
08-Mar-03
 Beach B001 Beach debris not yet removed since high seas March 07 still reamins on main beach.  Complaint from residents across the lagoon.  
 
 Eskom E001 Street light in GoshawkThe globe of which has repeatedly been changed to no avail - problem seems to be a faulty connection.
18-Mar-08
 Eskom E002 Street light between 3 & 5 Magai reported not working
18-Mar-08
 Parks P003 Complainits of Basket sellers living in bush - causing disturbance - dogs barking
18-Mar-08
 Ilembe I001 Eskom installation dislodged after Ilembe’s work on pipe at 106 Glen
20-Mar-08
 Ilembe 1002 slow leak, possible pipe leaking into 91 Nkwazi dr soak away
20-Mar-08
 Civils C001 as above, could be storm water drain nearby
20-Mar-08
 Civils C002 40 Panorama, stormwater off street damage to property
25-Mar-08
 Eskom E001 Goshawk light again reported as not working
25-Mar-08
 Ilembe I002 Water leak on edge of road at 103 Nkwazi dr
25-Mar-08
 Ilembe I003 Water leak at 137 Nkwazi dr
 
      
08-Apr-08
 Ilembe I003 Water leak still not attended to f 137 Nkwazi
 
 Ilembe I004 Water leak at 89 Glen dr
 
 Ilembe I005 Water leak at 106 Glen dr
 
 Eskom E002 Street light between 3 & 5 Magai reported stillnot workingref16865937
 
 Parks P003 Complainits of Basket sellers living in bush - causing disturbance - dogs barking
16-Apr-08
 Ilembe I006 Water leak at 48 Nkwazi dr
 
 Ilembe I007 Water leak on meter at 8 Kingfisher - repeatedly reported on phone
 
 Ilembe I008 Water leak at 130 Nkwazi
 
 Ilembe I009 Eskom intallation near cnr of Glen/Flamingo dislodged by Ilembe 
 
 Ilembe I010 At entrance to village, cables unearthed by Ilembe
 
 Ilembe I011 Leak between 1 & 3 Magai
 
 Eskom E002 Repeated report on faulty light between 3 & 5 Magai
 
 Twn Plan TP001 Illegal signage 76 Nkwazi & cnr Shelley/Glen
20-Apr-08
 Coast Care Complaints of debris on southern end of Zink beaches
 
 Ilembe I012 Leak opposite 30 Glen
29-Apr-08
 Ilembe I009 3rd time reportedEskom intallation near cnr of Glen/Flamingo dislodged by Ilembe 
 
 Ilembe I010 2nd report At entrance to village, cables unearthed by Ilembe
 
 Civils   Sand washed down Sharksboard washed into Nwkazi dr 
 
 Ilembe I004 2nd report 89 Nkwazi dr Pool of water from disused soak away unresolved by Ilembe 
 
 Parks P004 Complaints of builder’s rubble and litter at servitude Sandy Cove
 
 Parks P005 Complaints of builder’s rubble and litter on verge of  123 Nkwazi dr

Posted in Kwa Dukuza Municipality | No Comments »

« Previous Entries