Merry Christmas to everybody!!

In this Christmas ....

In the daytime if sun shine so shall Ur expectations come true

At night when the moon comes out so shall U receive blesses

then if rain fall so shall it going to carry all your problem away from U!

Happy Merry Christmas to all!!

Regards

Ciarra

Our rights

We were unable to attend the last AGM but did sign over proxy voting rights.

I have only now been told how the election was conducted and my conclusion was ....... disgraceful and a farce!!!

The developer’s so called ‘voting rights’ are unreasonably and very unfair but let me leave that point until last.

How can it be that the developer is allow to appoint 6 mandatory directors (including himself) without even allowing objections from us, the home owners. Yet he can use his many votes (about 150 of them I believe – and as mentioned before this is about the maximum capacity of people the AGM hall can hold) and with the help of those votes from his 5 appointed directors they did significantly influence the outcome of the ‘democratic’ election of other directors that we, the home owners, put forward? I conclude that this resulted in an extremely undemocratic election result more suited to old Russia or China, but not South Africa. Some of the competent nominees never had a chance regardless of their ability or desire to assist in pulling the estate straight. Best to be one of ‘the maatjies’ you see.

Why did somebody there not question what business it was for the developer to attend the vote counting procedure at the last AGM. I suppose, like my friends that were there, that most home owners were totally unaware that this was what was happening behind the scenes. Was it perhaps so that he could see where he could use his many influential votes to his benefit? This may have been the reason that some said that the counting took an unreasonable time. He should have been ejected from the counting room with a swift K. You don’t need to be a member of the United Nations to understand that this was very undemocratic and illegal. We were not allowed to vote against his nominees, so what gives him and his nominees the right to vote in an influential way against the democratically put forward nominees? The accepted worldwide system of voting is universal suffrage – in other words “one man, one vote” and this was far from it. Think about it. How many democratically elected directors do we have? Easy, just ask the developer. I was told that at least one had so many votes that they could do nothing.

This brings me to another important issue. I, like many other home owners, have a copy of the Articles of Association. I gave my copy to an advocate pal of mine who advise us to take action against this in a court of law as it is unacceptably biased against the majority of us members. This advocate assured me, that this document will not, if contested, stand up in a court of law.

Ask our neighbours the home owners of Meyersdal View they chucked him out and won a court case against him.

Any owners who wish to join me to start this action please would you ask them, if you can forward their names on to me. Thanks you Ciarra. I’m sure that if asked and are made aware of this situation many will come forward to fight this injustice.

I am tired of having this developer pushing us the majority around.

THE TAIL IS WAGGING THE DOG – this shouldn’t happen and it is time for the tail to go.

Chow

Gringo

Ostriches

Having leaved in Outshoorn for many years I consider these creatures domestic animals. I don't think they would fit in with our estate. Yes, they are very dangerous when they have young or eggs to protect. My vote - NO!

Bloubul

Killer ostriches

I do agree with Martin that these birds are dangerous and perhaps more dangerous than the two legged, skirted ones without feathers. When they have young chicks they have even been known to attack lone lions. We should think of some other species of game.

Cheers

Gato

Feeb back on the animals

In answer to Ou suinig's letters of 16 and 22 November. Martin Wolmarans was so kind as to provide us with the following answer.

Good Day Ciarra

The following animals were caught and sold to the nature estate:

Eland 24
Black Wilde bees 21
Blesbok – 15

The following new game were added recently:
Livingston Eland 5
Waterbuck – 6 (Has anyone noticed them?)

We would like to add as many as possible different types of species on the farm which is also part of our short – long term (5 year plan).

For each and every new game species we want to add on the farm we need to apply for a permit from the Nature Conservation. They will advise if we are allowed to have the specified species or not. It is all about the individual habitat of the specific animals. For example I approached them for a permit on the Nalas which they declined as this is not their natural habitat.

Your question relating to the ostrich we will have to apply for a permit however do we really want them as we could face a problem especially with our kids running around freely on the Eco estate - it could be dangerous to them.

I hope all our nature lovers noted that we planted 65 trees on the estate over the last two weeks. As well as the fish have arrived and all the dams are properly stocked with a combination of Tilapias. See pictures attached.

If you would like more detail regarding the game please contact me on the following numbers below.


Kind Regards,

Martin Wolmarans
Transchem Logistics
Director
t / +27 11 867 4136
f / +27 11 867 3145 (office)
f / +27 86 619 2565 (direct)
c / +27 83 253 5338

Christmas Father's Visit

It’s not the Starship Enterprise

In answer to Snoopy’s letter of 22 Nov 2010.

That is not the Starship Enterprise, it is the new venue for the 2011 academy awards.

Regards

Spiro

Feedback on crusher site

If Mr XYZ and Gato does not mind, I will reply to this and all others who are wondering what’s going on.

Adrian and I are almost continually working on this with trips to the Surveyor General’s offices in Pretoria, trips to GDACE , the council, our lawyer and advocate and the green scorpions. And I can assure you that we have made significant progress.

I appeal to the 150 or so owners who are giving our team support to bear with us. It has been difficult to get exact details of what has transpired but we are very close now.

Perhaps within the next four weeks we will have something conclusive and hopefully positive to present.

Regards

Rynette

You are polluting the air!!

To the home owner who was trying to make a braai near the dams 5H00 last Saturday.

Please use charcoal as suppose to tyres, old bakkie canopy's or old paint tins as they smoke a lot less.

Cheers

Gringo

Starship Enterprise

Hi

I don't often use the entrance at Soetdoring but I was late coming back from Potchefstroom the other night and when I look across the valley, I thought that the Starship Enterprise had landed in the estate.

If nobody believes me, drive up to the top of the estate and look down into the valley to the east.

Snoopy

Hoeveel diere het ons weg gegee?

Hi Ciarra

Ek het 'n brief gepos op die 16de November, rakende die diere wat nou so skaars is.

Kon jy al uitvind hoeveel diere daar weg gegee was en of ons nog diere gaan aankoop?

Groete

Ou suinig



I will try and find out from Archie Rutherford or Martin Wolmarans.

Ciarra

What's happening with petition?

What's happening about the petition that most of us signed?

I drove to the top of the estate on my way to the Glen and I am quite concerned about the level of work being carried out at the crusher site.

Mr XYZ

I also receive the following letter regarding the same issue -

Hello everyone,

A while ago I gave a guy my signature regarding the petition to stop the construction work up at the top of the estate. Since then we have heard nothing. Is there any news on this?

Chow

Gato


I will try and get some feedback regarding this issue.

Ciarra

Some Halloween kids!

Re-paving deposit

I have lived here for a year and a half and when I received back my paving deposit it was minus R1000.00 This is strange and so I ask why. Last year's board elected to say that this is how it is because contractor's continue to cause damage .

What have I done wrong that makes me liable for what contractors are doing? When my deposit was paid there was no mention of R1000.00 that would be withheld. So this is wrong and theft. I want my R1000.00 bucks as all of us who has received R1000.00 short do also.

If you wish, with new building projects to withhold R1000.00 have the decency to inform people. Perhaps somebody with principals in the newly elected board will agree with us that you cannot change the rules. What you say in the beginning must be true to the end.

Gatvol

Waar is die wilde diere?

Ons het vriende van Swartruggens oorgenooi sodat ons kon spog met ons eie "wilds plaas" hier in die middel van die dorp.

Probleem is ons het hulle genooi voordat die diere verminder is. Ons het 'n hele paar keer die hele landgoed plat gery, maar niks gesien nie. Wat 'n anti-klimaks!

Hoeveel diere het ons van die landgoed verwyder?

Ek reken nie eers 'n veedief sal twee keer na ons landgoed kyk nie, want daar is niks om te steel nie.

Ou suinig

Explanation of levy rise & GDACE rules

Thanks again for all the people that voted for me.

I have decided to do my posting through Ciarra’s blog as well as the official estate’s website in the hope of being able to reach more home owners.

With regard to the levies, and many complaints that the home owners don’t fully understand the justification for the increases we will publish more explanatory brake-down of the figures after the next finance meeting on the 18th November 2010.

I will, due to my accountancy qualifications in devour to look for ways to seek ways to reduced levies in line with common business practise – I am concerned just as much as anyone else. We have worked hard for our money and this we have achieved by not wasting it. I will be a strong campaigner against frivolous and unnecessary expenditure.

On a different subject, there will be a complaints, compliments and suggestions register at the management offices for all home owners to use. I would however like to be e-mailed directly at rynette@orbitaldistributors.co.za so that I may follow up on any such submissions.

Complainants must understand that most of the rules have been stipulated by GDACE and as such are LAW. Should you wish to make representation to GDACE to have a regulation changed you may get their address from the manager Fred Botes. Home owners must understand that even if we think a rule is ridiculous it is not our call. If people appreciate this it will cause less ill feeling.

Regards

Rynette

Wie en wat is ons nou eintlik?

Wie en wat is ons – Meyersdal Nature Estate of Meyersdal Eco Estate?

Die munisipaliteit dokumente sê dat ons in die Meyersdal Nature Estate uitbreiding 1, 2 & 3 bly. Die bestuur van ons landgoed sê dat ons die Meyersdal Eco Estate is.

Ek verstaan ook dat die grense van ons landgoed soos dit uitgesit is deur ons grensdrade, ook nie die waarheid is nie. Is dit waar en as dit is waar is, waar is ons grense nou eintlik? Waarin het ons ingekoop?

Blou Bulle

Thank you for the giraffe’s

I just want to thank the developer Mr Booysen for sponsoring the three giraffe’s for our estate. I am getting sick and tired of people criticising this man. He has also been an asset to the Alberton community. He is just a normal guy in business.

Regards

Mrs Zeely



I have publish just for you a beautiful picture of the giraffe on our website. I also want to say thank you to Mr Booysen for donating these wonderful creatures to our estate.

Ciarra

Strange voting regulation

For a start why was it necessary at the vote counting for the developer to cast his extra votes at the vote counting office, and why was this not all explained to us at the beginning. Most likely because this is a contentious subject. Never have I heard of an election whereby this happens. Some of us are new to the estate. Of the fifteen nominees available for democratic election we had to choose seven. Some of these I believe have been for ever or were previous board members. I think there were only three new-blood elected trustees. Out of thirteen how strange?

On another point regarding proxy votes I have also never heard of people canvassing for proxy votes. May I suggested that in the future any member who is unable to attend an AGM and wishes to give their votes to a proxy, that this is limited to 2 proxy votes per attendee. For example, Joe Soap gets 30 proxy voting rights and wishes to vote for himself as a board member, he will do so.

With the estate expanding we will never achieve the percentage required to prevent the unreasonable hold that the developer has with his voting rights.

Any clues?

Gato

Time will tell

I wish to congratulate all the new board members but obviously not to those directors who are purely "pals" or "business associates" of the developer. How undemocratic!

Congratulations to the organisers for running a far less chaotic AGM this year.

We all hope that the new blood will be able to stand up to the domineering tactics of the guys that have been there forever.

The transparency that we all want should come from the new comers, if they walk the walk like they talk the talk. Only time will tell.

Cheers

Spiro

Congratulations to the new board members

Please forgive me not attending to the blog as I was out of town on unplanned business. I even missed the AGM which I really wanted not to. This is always an interesting event.

There is quite a bit of post which I will try and fit in over the next few days in between kids, cooking and work.

I just want to use this opportunity to congratulate all the newly elected board members and hope that this year would be a successful one for you all.

I have asked someone to take photos of the new board members and I will change the website accordingly.

I also just want to remind the Erasmus family to forward me their photos and information as they are our "Your next" family on the website.

Speak to you later

Ciarra

Board members nominee list

To all residents

NEW INFORMATION SENT TO ME FOR PUBLISHING

Please note that the AGM is tonight at the clubhouse at 6pm. Here is the list of nominees for board members.

Please see below the developers 5 candidates – they won’t be on the voters list.

LT= been on the board for a long period with continues service.

Rean Booysen – Developer

Nico Kruger – appointed by the developer - LT
Jan van der Merwe – appointed by the developer - LT
Ewald Coetzee – appointed by the developer
T Coleman – appointed by the developer - conflict of interest as managing agent of the estate - LT
Martin Wolmarans – appointed by the developer

Here is the list of all nominees and it is said that we should nominate 6 candidates out of this list:

Candidates from the previous year:

Neil Diamond
Elizabeth Waite - LT
Malcolm Storey - LT
Danny Twala
Archie Rutherford

New candidates:

Collin Gallop
Teresa Fernandes
Bruno Tranchina
Bert Nel
Grant Hinckley
Rynette Farrar
Brad Frew
Ghume Strydom
Bungane Radebe
Barry Mills
Wikus Steenberg


Please note that as per the Articles of Association, the developer has the right to appoint directors to the board, therefore the nominees that have been appointed by the developer will not be on the voters role, only the other 16 nominees will be on the voters list.

Ciarra

Reply to Boet's "Gutsy Lady"

It is now Monday 8H00 and I'm pleased to inform everybody that I have at least 70 signatures in our campaign to prevent the crusher site development and I still have more signatures to collect. Either I am very lucky or very many people don't want this to go ahead.

Regards

Rynette

Gutsy lady

You are doing a great job but you dont know what you are up against . These people are "Teflon Dons" as nothing sticks to them. You got my signature but I bet you dont get too many. Almal is bang gatte!!

Boet

Crusher site

Ciarra

The petition to stop this housing is development in the crusher site is most welcome.

I was unaware that the stands were already on the market for sale and I would not be interested in one for investment or otherwise. A few years ago I read a Geotech report on the crusher site which plainly stated that the ground is "unstable". I'm willing to bet that this is not being told to prospective buyers or any of the other problems and I can understand why . But it does lack ethics on the part of the seller.

I was one of the first to buy into the Eco Estate about a year after the initial major sale and was totally in love with the concept. My wife and I drove around the area with the estate agent and saw the size of the area within the fence. What a shock to us that we NOW only discover that the estate is far from the size that we thought it was. There is a large area in the North of the estate but is still within the fenced area that DOES not belong to our Eco Estate and therefor us members. Why then was or is the estate's true size marked with a fence or at the very least told to us in the first place? This is intentional deception to give an untrue sales pitch of what we have all bought into. Effectively our estate has shrunk by about 1 500 000 square metres and we thought that the estate was ALL the area within the fence. Were we foolish to believe them in the first place or should we have gone to the council offices and studied the plans of the area demanding to know who owns what size of ground. NO, the trouble is 99.99% of us trust in human integrity-----foolishly obviously.

Show a man a car for sale and when his payment is made and the ownership is changed, then give him the vehicle without the wheels and seats --- a poor comparison but you get the idea.

Mr Owl

Welcome waste of money

So I hear the trustees are considering building a 'Welcome centre' for visitors at a estimate of R3 million or so. What a bloody waste of our money with far more important issues. Who dreams up this ***?

There are important issues but I'll give you a list of few very unimportant stupid issues that the trustees are throwing their toys out of their cots about.

a] Palisade fencing onto the veldt must be erected - why? Does it annoy anyone apart from them -no! If people don't want that extra security or animals eating their plants, so what, who cares.

b] Burgler bars must be remove. Who cares if some want their houses to look like Pretoria Central prison even if their reasons are good for having them.

c] Non indigenous plants. The veldt has plenty that should be sorted out before even considering k** like this again, who really cares where they come from.

d] Insect friendly lights. Have you ever heard of such stupid *** in your life, it is ignored anyway. There is not a house in the place that has not got at least one can of insect killer.

I don't know who dreamed up all this over the top indigenous ***. If they wanted to do it totally correct they should have said that only indigenous people from south of the Sahara desert who are black can live here.

Sometimes we see a chopper flying in and out. Oh sorry, that is not a chopper, that is a indigenous giant ********* dragon fly that eats or spits out people? It has a good choice of food even if it spits some out - must taste bad.

Catch a wake up. At the start of all board meetings they should all give each other a few good slaps round the head to bring them back to the real sensible world.

Radus

Stop complaining anonymously

Hi Ciarra

I really hope that the next meeting won't be a circus like the previous meeting.

A lot of residents are complaining anonymously about the board.

A few comments -

Anonymous. That is the main problem we have. Everybody is complaining but isn't getting involved to sort our the issues.

Get nominated and get involved in management.

This is most probably the same people that are complaining about everything during the meetings, wasting everybody's time without trying to add value. (Like the guy that is always sitting at the back of the hall).

Most probably the same people that is complaining about security issues but refused to open their cars for a security search.

Or refused to do a Polygraph test on their domestics.

Etc, etc, etc ..........

The majority of the residents must be successful business people for obvious reasons, why can't we then work together as a team to resolve the issues.

It's time to move on. Everybody is busy and don't have time for bulls**t
after hours.

Bert Nel - 51 Roller Street

Board members not standing again

I have received word that the following board members are not available for re-election at the moment: Ryan Annandale and Dr George Varughese.

I just want to take this opportunity to thank these two board members for the positive contributions they made to the board in the past. A thankless job as we all know.

Ciarra

Not humorous Spiro

Dear Spiro,

Your vitriol towards the Board is quite puzzling.

I have reviewed your posts and am yet to establish something constructive from you.

It leaves me wondering if you are one of the few who remain transgressing in some way blatantly and are unhappy because you are being taken to task.

I trust you will be available to give freely of your time (lots of it), and to be abused by members of the community you serve by making yourself available to stand as a board member.

Otherwise kindly start being constructive, else……………… hold your peace. I have always welcomed and asked for comments/complaints etc and do not shy away from them. But they need to be sensible.

Your reference to last year and the couple that voted for extensions:
Why did you not have the guts to voice that out immediately? Were you also for it?

You were the one that accused the board for voting for the extension, whereas the entire board voted against it.

We are all in this together, if we did not pick this up at the AGM if it did happen, I still ask, why did you not pointed it out immediately.

You are most welcome to bring your bag of rotten tomatoes and eggs to the AGM, perhaps they will come in useful.

There are many folk on this very blog who have been quite useful with their criticisms and suggestions and questions, but that IMHO does not include you.

BTW, RF also has my yes vote, so we agree on something.

Kind Regards,

DR. George Varughese.

P.S. Spiro
I am not afraid of hiding behind a pseudonym.

Careful with proxy voting rights!

I have not post before but here I go.

Late yesterday afternoon a guy gave me a proxy form to sign over by vote to a Liz Waite, should I not be attending the AGM next week.

I do not know much about this lady other than she is a member of our current unpopular board.

I will not be in town for the AGM, but I certainly won't sign over my voting right to anybody that I don't know well.

This applies to board members especially and I would only do this with very good friends or neighbours.

One could be giving their vote to an Al Capone type character.

Regards

Old goat

Rotten eggs & tomatoes

What good news about a top table for the AGM next week.

One question, do we have to bring our own rotten eggs and tomatoes or will they be available at the AGM venue?

The voting for board members should be more of a "no" vote of confidence in the board than a vote for who misses walking the plank.

Many people I know are reluctant to attend because of likely lack of seating.

I was at the last AGM and found that a nearby neighbour to me, split up and had his wife sit away from him and they both held up their hands for a "yes" to the building time extension vote - this is bullsh__t!

RF - go for it, if you stand you have my "yes" vote.

Spiro

It's a "yes" to the top table

I have received word from Dr George that all the current board members will be seated at a top table during the AGM on the 28th August 2010.

Ciarra

Answer to top table for board members

There has been no specific reason, that the board members have not sat up at the top.

The only reason I can fathom may be space? as there are lots of board members.

I will table(no pun intended) this request and see if it can be done.

Regards

Dr George

Answer to award without tender

Coleman Properties was appointed as managing agent at the inception of the estate by the developer and the then board as were many other service providers.

Quite correct there was no tender process at the time.

This year it is going out to tender(with the next board as the decision was taken late this year), and this has been minuted and agreed upon.

This is in order to be in keeping with good governance principles.

Dr. George.

AGM - 28th October 2010

Dear fellow residents,

I trust that everyone was informed about our annual AGM on the 28th of October 2010 at the clubhouse at 18H00.

It is of utmost importance that all of us attend this meeting, as this is where decisions are taken that will have an effect on us all eg financially , and selecting new board members who will represent our interests for the next year etc.

We have to carefully look at previous board members who want to stand for re-election for what they have done for our community in the past and or the lack of what they should have done but did not. We must also consider the fact that some of them have a conflict of interest and maybe should look at rather selecting “neutral” directors.

New nominees for directorship must be made aware that the job as a director should not be taken lightly as we need persons with strong character, that will not be steamrollered over by other board members. We are all aware that this is what has happened in the past. Nominees should be fully aware of the duties and responsibilities as specified in the company legislation as they may find themselves being brought to answer deictically in a court. Section 77 in the new Companies Act is very detailed as to the circumstances under which directors would be called to account.

On top of this, directors have to spend quite a lot of their time serving our community and all this for no financial gain.

Better to select members who have shown willingness to serve and have the best interest of our community at heart.

Please take all of the above into consideration when making your selection of nominees.

Please come and have a say in what happens to all of us!!!!!

Ciarra

Extend the building deadline again?

Hi

There are rumours going around that some in the community want to extend the building deadline again.

If you are against this, make sure that you attend the AGM.

Ciarra

Top table for board members

There should be a top table for the board members at the AGM, so that questions may be answered by a particular board member and can be done so facing the floor. This saves people having to turn around to see who is replying.

Every attendee should be given a list of current board members and the names of any board member not standing for re-election.

Spiro

Award without tender

I would like to know why the managing agent was not given the contract after due process of successful tender. Why is this so? Is this jobs for pals or what?

I would appreciate it if one of the board members can answer this question before the AGM, as this question was not answer at the last meeting to my satisfaction.

Adrian Farrar

Answer to 48 hours or not

A big thank you to Rynette for pointing that error out.

The bold letters on the bottom of the Nomination form gives the impression that one can hand in a nomination form at the meeting.

This is incorrect.

A nomination form MUST be handed in 48hrs prior to the meeting at the clubhouse to Trish. A nomination form cannot be handed in at the meeting.

The only form that can be handed in at the meeting is the Proxy form.

A corrective letter/email will go out.

Dr. George.

Echo / Game Estate Issues

Hi Ciarra,

I am currently living in a similar echo estate out on the west-rand (Letamo Game farm). Reading through your blog and various materials available on the web regarding the Meyersdal Echo Estate, it seems that we at Letamo is facing similar issues around game conservation and property development, conflict of interest between developers and various service providers etc.

I used to be the Chairman of the Board of Letamo Game Farm, which consists of representation from the developer and land owners with the Developer having the major share holding and obviously influence in the future of the 'development', hence the conflicts around game and development.

We are now at a cross roads in our development where we need to change, various concerned residents are coming forward, the normal political 'clicks' are formed and as a result nothing get's done etc.

I would be interested in the issues that exist in Meyersdal, maybe we could learn from one another. Would this be possible or could you point me to someone that can provide some information. I would like to hear from residents rather than service providers or developers.

Thanks in advance,

Tjaart Riekert

IBM Software Group,


Hi all,

It's wonderful to be able to communicate with people from other estates. I have referred Tjaart to Rynette Farrar, but I would like to envite everybody who would like to talk to Tjaart to drop him an e-mail as he would like to hear from various residents. I will forward all mails to him as he does not wish his e-mail address advertised on the blog.

Ciarra

48 Hours or not?

On the nomination form for new directors it state that should you be unable to attend the meeting your nomination form must be handed in at Trish 48 hours before the meeting, but the covering letter (written by Trevor Coleman) state that nomination forms must be handed in not later than 48 hours before the meeting. The form and the letter are saying two different things - which one is it? Can we have clarity on this?

Rynette Farrar

Deon's answer to Uiltjies letters

UILTJIE, I am not the person erecting, or responsible for the fence at the crusher site. As a matter of fact, I have nothing to do with the fence being erected whatsoever. By coincidence this person erecting the fence is also named Deon, so is Eco's security manager also named Deon. I know about the fence and went so far as to personally cut the wires to prevent animals from running into it and hurting themselves. At present there are no wires, only the poles, as I share the same concern for the animal's welfare as you and others do. We had the fence wires removed until shade netting can be erected to make the fence visible.

You have my phone number and are welcome to phone me as always.

Deon Oosthuizen

Procedurelly unlawful fence

For those who wish to know why Deon is erecting a fence at the crusher site, we do not understand. What we do know is that this is unlawful as the 'services certificate' from the council for this development has up until now, not been issued.

There are no efforts by the fence erectors to make obvious, by using colourful material, where the initial support wires are. This is dangerous to the animals!

Getting back to Deon we were perhaps foolish to believe that he is employed purely with nature issues.

We will gladly throw our weight and financial contribution, as others are doing, with all efforts to halt this unpopular development. If united, we will have both the power by numbers and the money to do so. Success is ours for the taking so lets TAKE IT.

Big thanks to R.

Uiltjie

Animal rights

How disgusting that you humans just think of yourselves and MONEY. This estate is small enough as it is and now you go and fenced off one of our favorite grazing areas. At this rate our areas will be the same as Joburg Zoo. Even our neighbour Mr Archie the zebra stormed out of the estate in disgust yesterday.

Regards

President of RODEB
(Republic of democratically elected bokkies)

What's with Deon?

I though that Deon is now working across the road and no longer involve with our estate. What's with him now doing the fencing for the new development? Anyone got a answer for me?

Uiltjie

Answer to Blou Bulle's letter regarding COF's mail 01 October 2010

Concerned owners Forum. Started by Ryan Annandale and Elizabeth Waite and assisted by George Varughese back in 2007, when there some issues that had to be dealt with that were of concern to us as homeowners, by the then board.

Those three were then voted onto the board by the Homeowners.

ABC

Answer to Spiro's mail 01 October 2010

Board members do not resign at an AGM. No board member is resigning.

What happens is at every AGM, the present Board’s term automatically comes to an end.

Prior to this people must be nominated and be voted on by the community.

If a current board member wishes to remain, he/she must be nominated and be voted on. If he/she does not obtain enough votes to see him/her through, then they do not get onto the board.

So to clarify the position, some of the current board members are not making themselves available for re-election while others are. It is up to the community to then decide if they want to elect those who are standing.

You will know at the AGM, who is standing and who is not. Nominations can be sent in upto 48hrs before the AGM and a mail will go out informing people who are standing for election as a Board Member.

I honestly hope that there are quite a few, as if there are not, an election is not required.

So step up and be counted.

Make yourself available Spiro. Come and work.

Dr George Varughese

Great news

We find it good news that the board finally is calling for new directors. I hope that the directors that are resigning are the ones that have been found to be less than competant. They know very well who they are and should jump before they are pushed.

Rumour has it that the board is to be sued because of some of these very board members who have stuffed up badly.

We demand to know who are resigning before the AGM as this is our right.

Cheers
Spiro

Who or what is COF?

I have heard of COF. What does it stand for and who are they?

Blou Bulle

Rubbish bags unsightly

There is a certain house quite near the main gate that always has rubbish bags lying around their front paving.

This is so unsightly!

Can’t someone please speak to them please?

Gringo

Through rocks away

Ain’t people funny. They pay a fortune to clear their stands of rocks, just to later pay a fortune to buy and get rocks delivered to make their gardens interesting.

Why not store the rocks in one corner for later?

Ou suinig

Seriously need to considder new Directors

With the upcoming AGM(in October) and the need to elect new directors, will people seriously consider giving of their time to serve the Eco Community as a director?

The process for nominations is as mentioned before and you need to start giving this some serious thought.

There are definitely members of the board who are not available for re-election, so there is a need for others to step up to the plate and be counted.

Fresh blood is always useful and makes a difference.



Kind Regards,

Dr. George Varughese.

I like Ciarra’s new game – you’re next

I want to compliment Ciarra on the updated website. I think it is an excellent way of getting information about our fellow residents.

I don’t even know what my neighbours look like. Can’t wait to see the new family – the Erasmus’s of stand 208.

Spiro

Dam’s full of fish

Listening to Archie Rutherford at our last meeting and telling us that Jaco are going to assist us in getting our dams full of fish, is wonderful news.

I’m longing for the first Sunday that I can swing my rod over my shoulder and walk to the fishing spot.

How about a little lapa or two next to the dams, so I can take my Misses with. She is not a sun lover, but I would like her company next to the dam.

Blou Bulle

Reply to Snoopy's blog 23 September 2010

HI Snoopy,

In actual fact the house was in the Township and not in our Estate.

Sorry that it was not made clearer.

George Varughese.

Dear Homeowners / Residents,

Following the series of breakins that we as an estate were subject to late last year and early this year, it became evident that our security had to be upgraded/beefed up/reviewed.

The Security Committee went out to tender for the Security and during the tendering process, it became patently obvious that a lot more had to be spent on security to obtain the desired outcomes (this was evident from our then service provider and the new ones who tendered). It was obvious that with the unique challenges our estate presents, security needed a different approach and one that would require more expenditure from us.

If you would recall we had an information meeting in July where this was communicated to residents and we received the mandate from the community to do what was required to secure our homes.

We(the entire board) shortlisted three companies for the final evaluation, one of which was the then service provider, HWS. As we concluded the meeting, HWS resigned and informed us that they would be leaving end of August(this was mid August). We then contacted our choice and asked if they could take over in two weeks and they agreed to do so.

We were left with a decision to make; Either appoint somebody (at a higher cost obviously), or appoint nobody and be left without security pending the AGM and further mandate from the body.

We took the decision that we had been mandated to by the body at the meeting of July and appointed Fidelity Security Services with effect from 01/09/10.

I am sure that in light of the successes (arrests, identifying fraudulent activity etc) that we have had (including the latest), you will all be in agreement that the correct decision was made and that the cost implications thereof would have to be borne.

As a result of the above and some other factors the levies have had to be raised with effect from 01/10/10 to R2,550.00

This was communicated at the information meeting on 20th September and was met with agreement.

Kind Regards,

The Board of Trustees

Thanks

Dr. George

Are we poisoning Archie?

I saw the other day some residents that are spraying poison on their grass and in their flower beds. Their garden is open towards the street. Won’t they by their actions poison Archie?

Just wondering .....................

Peace Lover

Lovely gardens

I get such a joy walking around the houses and seeing all the lovely gardens.

Most people really make a good efforts looking after their environment and their homes.

I feel proud to be part of this estate.

Keep it up!

Mr XYZ

Why not tell us who the guilty are?

At Monday’s meeting they told us that they caught a burglar and he led them to a house where the others were caught.

Didn’t we all agree at the previous meeting to name and shame the guilty?

Snoopy

Answer to Sorieta's mail of 21 September

We were left with no option as HWS had resigned with effect from 31/08/10. Thus it could not be extended.

If we did not appoint somebody, we would have been without any security. Surely you are not advocating that we did that?

Furthermore, whoever we appointed would have meant an increase in our levies.

Even if they had not resigned, am I to infer that you would have preferred for the status quo to have remained? Where we were being broken into almost daily with impunity? In all honesty we could not do that as we would have been castigated for not taking action.

I do hope that you are pleased with the arrests that have taken place thus far and with the security.
If not kindly voice your concerns about them so that I can deal with it.

Thank you to Ciarra for the appreciation and kind words. It does make what we are trying to achieve worthwhile. As human beings, it is nice to be affirmed once in a while, though that may not be the reason for serving.

Kind Regards

DR. George Varughese.
Security Committee.

Thank you to Willie Myburgh & Fred Botes

We would just like to thank Fred Botes for the way you handled our complaint and Mr Myburgh in admitting that we have a valid complaint.

Thank you for offering to sort this out promptly with tree planting.

We just wish that everybody's complaints can be sorted out this way by Mr Botes who shows wisdom beyond the typical attitude of the board.

Regards

Adrian & Rynette Farrar

Good news!!

Dear Fellow Homeowner,

It is with great delight that I have the following to report to you.

At about 04.30hrs this morning two suspects were apprehended with stolen goods in their possession, trying to break out of our estate.

They had broken into a house(not armed or linked to a security company), and were making away when they were apprehended.

They had in their possession a Plasma TV and Laptop.

They are currently in custody and are being questioned, and we believe that more arrests are imminent.

We will keep you posted.

They did gain access through the fence along Michelle Ave, which sent a signal through to the gate house.

Further details would compromise the ongoing investigations.

I am further convinced that we did take the right decision with the appointment of our new security service provider.

Once more may I reiterate my request that any non conformances by the security company or by residents be communicated to me. We want to enforce our Zero Tolerance approach in this estate.

DR. George Varughese.

Security Committee

Job well done

I wasn't at the meeting on Monday night, but I got feedback from my husband that were present.

My husband recon that the new security firm look's a lot more professional and that they seem to know more about security issues than the previous group.

Although we have to pay more (can't have levies not going up two years in a row) I think we have to say to the board "well done with this job" you have made a good choice.

Ciarra

Website updated

Hi all,

The website is updated again and are featuring our first family. Have a look at www.natureestate.net. Follow the link on the top right hand side of this page.

And the next family to be featured on this website will be the Erasmus family of stand 208. Better get yourselves prepared!

Ciarra

Will I go to Pollsmoor prison?

I just saw a e-mail from Trish that everybody must go into the clubhouse to verify our access cards and our photo's must be placed on our access cards.

Often hubby and I swap cars without thinking about swapping cards. Sure this happens to others as well. Does this mean that when I pitch up at the gate with hubby's card that I will be on my way shortly to Pollsmoor prison or the like?

Don't stress - just teasing.

Rynette Farrar

Another five years of traffic hell!!

Again last night someone mentioned that we must not extend the building period yet again and that owners must finish their houses as soon as possible so that we can get rid of the building contractors that are also posing a threat to our security.

I've got news for everyone. Soon there will be an estimated 200 vehicle trips plus, every working day in and out of our main gate (a bad joke already)and along Roller street when the new quarry area development starts (extension 13 & 14). The building period for this development is also estimated at a further five years.

We where all told years ago that the plan was to be all built up by this very time - what lies!!!! Was this false sales pitch back then or more likely it was the only info from the developer at that time.

So folk prepare for another five years of hell and not forgetting that our electricity grid is at maximum capacity now according to Escom !!!

Rynette Farrar

Verval datum van sekuriteit's firma se kontrak?

Na gister aand se vergadering die volgende vraag - hoekom nie die sekuriteits firma se kontrak verleng met 'n verdere twee maande, sodat ons (die huis eienaars) ook 'n sê kan hê by die jaarlike AGM, in die hernuwing daarvan al dan nie, instede daarvan om die besluit namens ons almal te neem en dan te sê jammer dis die rekening en julle moet nou maar net betaal.

Wonder maar net .......

Sorieta

Voting of board members

I refer to Mr XYZ mail of 10th September 2010.

The Estate community is not tied to any of the board members. No board members position is fixed barring the Developers 4 nominees.

I want to appeal to people to come forward and be nominated for board members. We should have more nominees than posts, otherwise we will have the same board members as before.

It's easy to sit back and criticize others (and this is useful if it is constructive), but to come in and get your hands dirty is a different ballgame.

Maybe we should look at other ways to elect board members, so that it will be more trustworthy and transparent.

Jakes

AGM & Directorship

With the upcoming AGM and the requirement that Directors must be nominated and voted on, would people kindly consider very seriously, giving of their time to serve our community on the Board of Directors? A number of directors would like to step down and it would be most welcome for new faces and ideas perhaps to come into the board.

If there is any confusion as to how to go about being nominated or nominating someone, please contact the Estate Offices, Fred or Trish, or any of the Directors.

Please be prepared to come in and work though. Passengers are not going to be useful.

Once more may I request that any breaches of security be reported to me or Fred at the office. We do want to start from the very beginning with a policy of zero tolerance to any non conformances.

Thanks,
Dr. George.
Security Committee.

"Archie" - the Zebra will be called

Hello,

Just a letter to tell uncle Blou Bulle that I have found another name for the Zebra.

Can we call him "Archie" after uncle Archie Rutherford that is looking after all the game?

Regards

Darren Farrar

How do we get rid of the Robert Mugabe regime?

Good morning ,

I've just studied Dr.George's post about how to apply for a position on the Board. It is obvious then that the home owners do not get a vote on the matter and that it is the current board who decide 'yes or no'. This is bullsh*t as there are many who feel that [bar a few board members like the good doctor] the others should be kicked off our board. These board members by their incompetence and attitude are way past their "sell by date", but the question remains as to how can we have them democratically removed from the shelf for good? Can't,the answer is that it appears to be a "till death we do part" marriage and we are stuck with these folks. Folks who are more suited to being on an ironing board than a company board. The current board is made up of assets and liabilities, with the later far greater than the former and thus continuing to trade insolvent.

God save us from these brotherhood despots!

Don't forget to bring your popcorn and cokes to the AGM circus next month, and oh! don't forget to bring your own chairs because with such limited space most would have to sit in the veld. You may miss out then on the presentation of Robert Mugabe Awards to selected board member for exemplary poor conduct, poor leadership and tenaciously holding on to power.

Cheers

Mr XYZ

Zebra need another name

To Darren

Okay smart kid, now you have to find our zebra another name.

Transvestite zebra!

Regards

Oom blou bulle

Kids and nature

Hello

Can Archie Rurtherford not maybe organize a nature workshop of some sorts for the many keen kids? It seems like there are quite a number of kids that just loves nature.

Is there a specific reason why we don't have any Gemsbok in the estate?

Regards

Rynette

Eco Indaba

Hi

I assume the Eco Indaba was put together by Trish Thompson. I just want to compliment her on this publication as I enjoyed it from beginning to end. Well done!

I see there is a Halloween scheduled for October month. Can Trish or Liz Waite just give us more details about this event.

Regards

Ciarra

Events in September 2010

Hi all,

Just to make sure that everybody knows about the meeting in the clubhouse on 20th September at 18H00.

Points of discussion:

Security feedback
Budget considerations
Environmental feedback
Shuttle service

Also on the 17th September there will be a bring and braai at the clubhouse at 18H00. This was an enjoyable event in the past and a good opportunity to get to know each other. However the finer details I will have to find out and I will publish it on the blog as soon as I have an answer. In the past the management use to make pap and salad and we use to bring our own meat. We were allowed to bring our own drinks or you could purchase it from the bar. I will find out if this will be the same format as before.

The only thing that was missing was a bit of music. How could one have a braai with no music to cheer everybody up? I think a good mixture of country, love songs etc will do. Can someone organize us and Ipod and docking station?

I think it will be a good idea to RSVP to Trish Thompson for this event. I ask that people please support managements efforts and events that they are organizing as a poor interest will just led to the canceling of such events.

Regards

Ciarra

Debra is a he

Hello

I just want to tell oom Blou Bulle that Debra the zebra is a he.

I think oom must find the zebra another name.

Regards

Darren Farrar

Loop Dracula alleen rond?

Is dit my verbeelding of is daar altyd alarms wat afgaan en honde wat baie blaf wanneer dit volmaan is?

Loop Dracula alleen rond of het hy maats wat saam rond sluip met ‘n voor liefde vir Plasma Tv’s?

Wonder maar net ........

Sorieta

We pay a lot for security!

Referring to Long distance walker’s mail of 26 August.

I think you forget that we bought into this estate for a few reasons.

The main reason being that we all expect security as a top priority. Most of us lead very busy lives and some travel a lot. We are not always available by the snap of fingers and I think it was a waste of time anyway.

We should be pleased to say bye to the present security company.

Just saying ..........

Randy Rooster

Ex-Deon

I think I agree with previous bloggers about Deon Oosthuizen.

I think this oak was genuine but he got a sh*t deal from higher up [even though I think the job was a bit too much for him].

Somebody mentioned Paper tigers (had to look it up) and I also agree with that ....... what a joke our board.

Greetings from Owl

Debra the Zebra

Reading Peace Lover’s mail of the 29th June 2010

Our family actually named this zebra “Debra”. Don’t know if it is a she or a he but I’m not prepared to find out . Debra sounds fine to my kids and the same goes for me.

I don’t think Debra is going to be very popular with some gardeners as it chomps some garden plants apart from grass. I have watched people chase her away but all be it cautiously.

Cheers

Blou Bulle

Leave Ciarra alone!

Why are people trying to find out who Ciarra is? Who gives a damn.

Ciarra is doing a great job and we need to communicate with one another.

Please let go of this campaign to find out who she is. If anyone knows who she is, then so what. Just sit back and enjoy the blog.

Chow

Gato

Fall guy

Referring to Gringo’s mail of 17 August 2010, we fully agree.

In the early stages of our building dispute I said to Deon Oosthuizen, that he is the fall guy for the poor decisions of some of the board members and we are firmly of this opinion.

On the 28 October 2009 when we visited Deon to ask him what was going on with our height objection regarding our neighbour, he firmly stated that he had rejected the newly ‘as- built’ plans back to this owner as he could see that they were not correct.

Yet, a mere three days later he signed it off as approved and still with the errors. How come? We believe that he was told to sign the drawings off regardless. We are quite sure that now that our dispute is getting to an advance stage when all will be revealed and that he was just the faithful servant.

Regards

Adrian & Rynette Farrar

PS: Thanks to all who had given us so much support!

Security clean up walk

What a poor turn out!

Now isn’t this strange that people pack the hall to chop off the board members heads for not providing security, but if it comes to joining together to solve this problem then nobody, or shall I say very few, are prepared to get out of their houses and do a bit for the community.

Very disappointed.

by Long distance walker

Are we sponsoring other estates?

Hi all,

I agree with Ciarra’s mail about the name of our estate. We do live in Meyersdal Nature Estate and the Nature Estate stretches as far as Rietvlei, I believe. I do not see the reason for us to distance ourselves from the rest. Calling our area the Eco Estate is in my view a bit over the top. We even have an Eco friendly helicopter frightening the sh#t out of the game.

But certain questions do remain like is the estate south of Michelle part of us or not and by this I am talking about administrative expenses? I have over the past noticed vehicles and especially our tractors going in and out of this estate below Michele.

Is the administrative body of their estate the same as ours?

Is it at all possible that we in the “Eco Estate” are sponsoring some of the development expenses outside of our estate? Gratis !

Cheers

Spiro

Blog name confusing

I have received an e-mail from Deon Oosthuizen saying that my blog name is confusing.

The fact that our estate was established as Meyersdal Nature estate ext 1, 2, and 3, does not give people the right to rename ourselves as the Eco estate.

At the town council, on all maps and on the GPS system we are Meyersdal Nature Estate and not Meyersdal Eco Estate or even just Eco Estate.

I have had many people before telling me that they cannot find Eco estate in the map book merely because there is not such a place.

However to make it easier with the blog, I have made it for Meyersdal Nature Estate 1, 2 and 3 / Meyersdal Eco Estate.

There is also nothing wrong with our neighbours (in the other estates) writing e-mails to me, as I have had this before. We have a lot in common and even share the same developer.

Regards

Ciarra

How good was Deon?

Now that Deon is out of the picture many say that things were not right because of his management? I know the guy and anything that was slightly difficult he referred on to whoever board members were responsible. Very little blame should be attached to Deon and shame on those who think that he was the originator of the many bad decisions and inaction.

As a man who is qualified in the ways of nature , he would not have arbiterally made important decisions regarding issues that he was not qualified to handle. Had he done so and made a poor decision , then he would have been guilty of misconduct.

Deon was in my opinion an unwilling front man. The new guy Mr Botha should be cautious in dubious dealings which may be detrimental to his integrity.

Chow

Gringo

Who is Ciarra?

We went out to dinner with friends last night who don’t live in the estate, but they are aware that it is not the “Utopia” that residents expected. They mentioned that they knew Grant & Ciarra Hinckley. I can assure all that my surname is not Hinckley and ‘Ciarra’ is as I stated before purely an alias. Sorry to Ciarra Hinckley if she has received any unwanted attention.

Regards

Ciarra

Security information not quite correct

Hi,

I noticed that some of the facts that were given to home owners during the security meeting of 26th July 2010 were not totally correct.

On the Power point presentation slide show it was stated that “on only one of the occasions was a robbery on a workweek night, all others were prior to a holiday or rest day”. This is in fact incorrect – 4 is the number and so indicates no ‘safer’ period.

The facts are as follows: - if given correctly to us on the same slide show that night.

Four robberies took place on Thursdays (stand 148 and stand 164 on 17 June, stand 359 on 24 June and stand 369 on the 22 July), one robbery on a Friday (stand 307 on 12 February), two robberies on Sundays (stand 188 on 27 June and stand 376 on 11 July), and two robberies on Saturdays (stand 145 on 3 July and stand 329 on 24 July).

They also mentioned that there were eleven incidents, but they only gave us information on nine of them. What about the two other incidents?

I see that they broke into the houses of five (out of fifteen) board members. I find this really odd.

To answer Gato’s mail – I think that there was another incident on the 27 July at stand 150 and early yesterday morning security were racing up and down so maybe there was another incident. Maybe it’s best to confirm this with Dr George.

Security car boot searches have now stopped, but why? If stolen property is still being stored within the estate, then this is when the items will be removed now that the heat is off.

Regards

Rynette

More security incidents?

Hi

Has anybody any news about new security incidents or have they stopped for the moment?

Regards

Gato

Burglar bars

Hi all

All of us by now have received the e-mail about so called illegal burglar bars - so what - security is bad. In the guidelines is says no burglar bars, but then it say a lot of things but the people in charge only want to fight about the little things. They behave like a bunch of fussy chickens only picking the easiest mielie pips. The hard to get at pips they leave alone.

I have ordered and paid for my burglar bars and when they are up, I shall ignore any dominant chicken that comes to threaten to confiscate my illegal mielies.

While I am on this subject of what is legal and what is not, we are not allowed Kukuya grass, yet the dam edges are full of the stuff (those of us with Kukuya should tell them to leave our grass alone).

Regards

Randy Rooster

Procedure to follow for nominations for board members

Hi everyone

The procedure to follow for nominations for new board members is as follows:

A nomination form is collected from the estate office and is filed in by the one doing the nomination and signed by the one who is nominated to show his/her willingness to serve on the board.

This is then submitted to Coleman's offices before a specified time in order to be placed on the list.

I would suggest that as you hand in the form to Coleman's offices to ask for a confirmation of receipt.

Please people, kindly consider giving of your time to serve the community. I do know that some members are tired.

Regards

Dr George

Relatonionship between board and HWS?

Greeting folks

Your thoughts and comments on proceedings last night?

I wonder what effect the break down in relationship between the board and HWS has on the current incidents?

Is HWS trying to blame the committee for the incidents? Surely they are the ones providing the security or lack thereof?

Are we getting a proper service from the service provider?

There are a lot of inconsistencies in their service and this has been pointed out on many occasions. They search certain cars and not others, they fingerprint some and not the other?

I have heard many residents comment on this. Why don't the board do something about this?

Cheers

Snoopy

Security meeting feedback

Dear fellow homeowner,

I do hope and trust that all your concerns and questions surrounding security issues were addressed on Monday nights meeting?

If not please post them so they can be answered.

I also hope that it is very evident that a lot of time and effort is being put into trying to resolve these issues.

I believe the questions around the cameras and expenditure were addressed?

Please also know that we will not be able to rest till we can catch these perpetrators.

We do however need your support and co-operation.

Being able to notify us when you do see non compliances and non conformances by either security and or homeowners.

It is not ratting on your neighbour but in fact being Good Neighbourly to the entire body.

Once more please volunteer any further ideas, thoughts and suggestions.

Also please be vigilant, arm your homes and keep your eyes open.

Thanks

Dr George

DARREN'S WALKS

Ciarra,

Reading Darren Farrar's mail I want to ensure him that I am continuing with my wildlife research and monitoring and will definitely invite him to assist me with field work as the lad has a real passion for wildlife. I am presently busy planning and marking trails on Nature Estate and once completed he is welcome to join me on my walks at Nature Estate. Darren - bring those field guides with and ask as many questions as you like.

Regards

Deon Oosthuizen
Estate & Environmental Manager
MEYERSDAL NATURE ESTATE
Cell: 082 857 2019
email: naturemanager@naturteestate.co.za


Thanks Deon - I always loved a good end to any story, and this is a good end for Darren. I am sure he will be happy again.

Regards

Ciarra

Estate bestuur nie meer in goeie hande nie

Hello almal

Ons moet die huis eienaars kry om vanaand se vergadering te kom ondersteun.

Ek dink ons het almal te lank aanvaar dat die bestuur van die estate in goeie hande is, maar die teendeel is bewys.

Ons sit op die kantlyn maar dit het tyd geword dat ons almal betrokke raak want as daar 'n probleem is dan is dit ons - die huis eienaars - se probleem, maar as hulle R4m op kameras spandeer wat slegs in die dag werk, dan word die eienaar nie geken nie.

Groete

Zorro

Your opinion about our security provider

Hi all

Please take part in our poll regarding the current security provider HWS. Poll closes on the 15th August 2010 and feedback will be given to the board.

Also bring along all your suggestions regarding security issues and or our current security provider tonight.

How do we address the issue about the searching of homes, containers etc., without a warrant?

Regards

Ciarra

Security suggestions

Hi everybody

I see on the blog that there is a security meeting tonight. I doubt if I will make it back in time from my meeting, but here are my suggestions:

• To put proper electric fence especially where we are most vulnerable. The current fence is just strands and can be easily lifted with a fork type branch. The fact that they carry the stolen goods into the veldt does not tell us if they store it there to bring back to the houses later or if they store it there to take to the fence at a later stage.

• The fact that they run towards the houses could be that
they know there are more hiding places for them as against being open in the veldt

• The only way we will find out if they do live amongst us is to get the sniffer dogs in faster. Surely the dog will take us straight to them.

• Maybe to have a wooden watch tower, place in a position to cover the most vulnerable area and a guard manning it with night vision binoculars like they use in the army. Of course this guard must also have a clock in pad, to make sure he is on duty all the time.

• I have been told by home owners that they have seen a car getting in at Soetdoring gate with about 5 people in the car and then after doing it’s rounds through the estate, leave the same gate with only one person in the car. We have to pay attention to these types of scenarios.

• Lately a lot of contract workers are walking around – in the beginning this was not allowed at all and I think we should return to this procedure. They must be fined heavily if caught.

• Also why don’t we purchase a bus for all domestic workers and gardeners and stop them from walking around as well.

I also see home owners at the gate getting angry when asked to surge their car boot. Please everybody must understand that this measure was not put in place to pick on certain owners but this is good idea for everybody’s sake. It does not even take 20 seconds.

Regards


Rynette Farrar

Why not post your comments on the blog?

Hi all

I receive a lot of mail where people have legitimate gripes but ask me not to publish their letters.

As I am not on the board all I could do in this situation is to read it and file it.

If you give me the go ahead to publish it, everybody can see what is going on and I can forward it to members of the board.

The blog was started to sort out problems that was not addressed by the board or were kept quite from us all, and not publishing your letters are not going to sort out the problems.

Regards

Ciarra

Who is going to walk with us?

Dear auntie Ciarra

We use to have wonderful times with uncle Deon on our walks through the bush. He used to give us a lot of interesting facts about the plants and the animals, and I agree to help him this summer catch tadpoles and scorpions, so that he can update his records.

I am very saddened by the fact that uncle Deon no longer works for the estate anymore, and that there will be no more walks.

Regards

Darren Farrar


Have anybody got an idea of how we can make Darren's heart happy again? Any volunteer's who knows about plants and animals that can take the "lopers" for a walk?

Ciarra

Important security meeting tonight

Hi

Please be informed that there is a very important security meeting tonight at 6H00pm at the clubhouse.

This is to inform people about what is being done and planned. There are a lot of rumours doings the rounds and this meeting is to also put these rumours to bed.

Please we asked that everybody will make positive contributions and suggestions and not just emotive and critical remarks.

Regards

Ciarra

Slink extension list & securelink telephone?

Hi

We have received a letter from Trish Thompson regarding security. In this letter she gives us the slink extension list and she mentions securelink telephone sytem. Has anybody got any idea what this is all about and how it works?

Blou Bulle

Reply from Trish Thompson:-

Hi Ciarra

The Slink phone system is a telephone system supplied by Securelink (the people who do our network). Unfortunately if you do not have a Slink phone the numbers are no good to you. There are quite a few people on the estate who have these phones. If you do not have the phone you can still contact us on the normal Telkom numbers, the list of emergency numbers is available on the website. If you would like a slink phone, you need to apply for one from Securelink. Their telephone number is 011 680 1580

I trust this explanation has shed some light on the subject.

Kind regards

Trish Thompson

We are heading for a serious power crises!!

I am confirming Blou Bulle's statement made about our power supply -

The cables that have been laid cannot really cope with the demand currently from the estate and not all the houses have been build yet. What about the extra 62 stand still to be built on at the crusher site?

Furthermore our neighbouring estate across Michele road will also be drawing power from the same grid. What are the developers obligations to see that we are not going to suffer as a result of this miscalculation?

What do we do? It is and will become a dire problem. It certainly is a high priority point to be raised and resolved at the next AGM.

Dave R

Equine flu?

On our regular walks up Roller we note that at the first house on the right there is a fountain with a dead horse in it. Is this not possible that the poor thing has died perhaps “Equine flu” and are our Zebra’s in danger?

Regards

Long distance walker

Reply to "Get your facts straight"

To Dr George

My reply to your “Get your facts straight”.

Thanks first of all to Dr George (first and only board member so far to finally join the blog) and thanks of course to Trish for the response which was subsequent to Owls posting - "Why are we kept in the dark like mushrooms".

It is not easy for any of us at AGM’S to identify who are and who are not board members simply because you guys do not have a top table! This in itself is abnormal and unheard of by many. There were approximately fifteen votes against the extension and there are fifteen board members. I recognized five or so other people who voted against it who are not board members plus others – do the maths. Had there been a top table for the board members and they were asked to vote first, it would have been a different story. Some of us are of the opinion that persons who have not completed their homes were canvas to attend.

How convenient at our AGM’S there are so many people who come and having seen that there is not enough seating leave? Again do the maths on number of owners. Anyway these meetings are a joke, badly run with lots of promises to look into issues and nothing ever seems to happens. It has been mentioned that there should be a vote of no confidence in the board which will never happen because you can never get enough people in the hall to have a majority ..............VERY CLEVER!!

I am surprised that those board members who are more dedicated have not resigned in protest about the way common members are being treated. The way the board operates when there is anything contentious is to unitedly offer silence.

One blogger asked that you now call for applicants interested in becoming board members - which you have not done so far and the AGM is three months away. Perhaps Ciarra, you should call for names of interested person’s for these positions for if we wait for this board it will be the same situation as last year.

Of all the board members it seems that only you are prepared to be involved in this blog. This is very healthy and will you be able to supply answers after investigating complaints starting with the many already put forward?

Nobody ever said that we as the common members think all board members have the same poor dedication to the position that they are in. Please refer to previous submissions George and you will see that most comments are directed to the board members that decide that they are not answerable in any way.

Two years ago, and at last year’s AGM , us common members requested more transparency. What did we get? You know the answer George, just the same.
When I look at some of the apparently severe statements made against the board and yet you guys do not make any effort to clear your names. Obviously there is some truth to the allegations.

George don't only respond selectively. What about all the other gripes on this blog? How do we get this gripes answered? In the past when we question Deon all we get is a “sheepish Deon style grin”and no answers. Maybe you should get the board to answer some letters at least - why not starting with Ciarra's letter "Topics to be added to the meeting of 9th June 2010" on the 1st June 2010. It was forwarded by Ciarra to all board members and like normal nobody replied back and these questions were not answered on the information evening as the board was controlling the whole meeting and for obvious reasons.

George I am sure that you will not need to ask permission to reply honestly to any question put to you, especially as a man of integrity . Do not feel obliged to throw your weight behind the board controllers as others have done. You have been tarred with the same brush as you are all perceived as a united group. All board members (except one) should have the testicular capacity to make a stand against issues that lack common values and are flawed. Importantly they should not be made to feel like a black sheep for their stand. There is no place for sheep on any board that blindly follow.

Spiro

Estate information

Hi all

Herewith a few snippets of information

Security-

As you are all aware, there have been a spate of recent security breaches and this is a cause for great concern to us all and the board.

The board is in the process of appointing a Security Manager, and not utilising one supplied by the Security Company providing the service currently. We believe that this will help us to a large extent.

The board is also in the process of giving out the tender for a new security company.
This process should be finalised by the end of August and the successful company will commence work in our estate on the 1st September 2010.

The board is also engaging in some other measures to improve our security and these will be made known at a later stage.

The board places the security of the residents on the highest point of their priority list.

The board would however request that residents do remain careful and lock their doors and arm their alarms.

The board has found houses where residents are away and door that are not locked.

The board remains open to and would welcome any suggestions and observations and criticisms. Bear in mind that a suggestion would be appreciated where there is criticism.

New management structure-

There is a new management structure within the estate.

As you may be aware, Mr Fred Botes has been appointed the new estate manager and has commenced his work. Deon is no longer the estate manager.

Mr Botes reports to an Executive committee, which is made up of 4 board members, currently Danny Twala, Neil Diamond, George Varughese and Ryan Annandale.

The various sub committees are still in place that deal with various portfolios, eg security, architectural, environment etc.

Mr Botes is currently busy with drafting out service level agreements to be implemented with all our service providers.

Any suggestions, questions etc, can be forwarded to me and I will forward it to the correct person for feedback.

Regards

Ciarra

Power cuts

Hi Ciarra,

Last time we had a power cut I made some enquiries with a pal of mine at Eskom and he did a quick investigation. I always though it odd that we in the estate have power cuts yet when I look across at Meyersdal they don’t. He came back to me and said that our estate and others in the “Booysen group” nearby all operate off the same substation/transformer installed by the developer. He did say that this unit is insufficient for the number and demand from the dwellings that all have to draw power. We are all very quick to blame Eskom , however, this appears not to be the case always.

We should all be asking why this is especially now that there are another 62 dwellings at the crusher site as well as the 20% of dwellings in our estate not yet built. Added to this, although I am still investigating, I believe that our neighbours across Michelle Avenue will be also drawing power of our grid and so this problem will only become worse.

Is it reasonable or just, that we having built our upmarket homes should be now be expected to spend a lot of money on generating sets when 99,99% of Alberton residents find this unnecessary?

I note that the developer’s house has and always has had emergency generator power- perhaps because he was aware that this would happen.

It would have been kind to advise new owners to build with provision for generators but perhaps this is not a very good sales feature.

I will investigate further and endeavour to corroborate my findings and report back.

Cheers

Blou Bulle!!

Get your facts straight!

It really irks me that people don’t get their facts straight and make sweeping encompassing remarks/comments that are factually incorrect.

If Spiro’s memory is inaccurate, perhaps he should ask from others.
At the said AGM, ALL the directors voted against the extension of the building deadline. The vote was done and won by residents. In this case the residents did shoot themselves in their feet. As directors we were against it but we had to listen to the majority vote.

I trust this fact will be noted and insinuations and aspersions cast as a result of misinformation will be retracted.

We would definitely welcome “owners with a passion for the estate” to take over and run the estate. I know I would. That would free up my time, that I invest in this estate, purely because of the fact that I live here. I would dearly love for Spiro to come and see what is being done, within the constraints that we have, and to make his/her contribution. I can promise you it would be most welcome.

Regards,

Dr George

Hi all

Please see new comment in reply to Spiro's "Food for thought" from Dr George.

Regards

Ciarra

Strange is it not?

Hi Ciarra,

How strange that within an hour of you publishing my letter on the web, all the phones suddenly works - at home and at work.

If I did not know better, I could swear that the walls in my office have ears.

Regards

Rynette Farrar

Phone problems

Hi Ciarra,

E-mailing you from Postnet because strangely enough all my phone lines (one at home and six at work) are out or order for I don't know who many times in the past six months but this is very suspicious. Two of the work lines are private and unlisted. The odds of this happening without tampering with our phone is astronomical. The previous time our house phone was down for three weeks the problem was discovered at the main gate junction box - after we informed them that we suspect our phone line had been tampered with.

I told everybody before I am not Ciarra!

Draw your own conclusions!

Regards

Rynette Farrar

Conflict of interest

Hi

I agree with all Gato revealed. I'm not sure if he knows but Ettiene Stols of SCS Architects who has designed many houses in our estate is the same as Trevor Coleman of Coleman Properties, as Stols is also on the board prevailing over the Architectural Committee - all a conflict of interest.

The estate attorney is John O'Connor and again he is a resident in the estate and also on the board - again a conflict of interest.

Chow

Gringo

Hulle reken dis 'n "eksklusiewe landgoed" die?

Goeie dag,

Ek en my ander helfte is nuwe eienaars in die landgoed. Ons is baie gelukkig in ons nuwe huis, maar daar is 'n paar jakkalsies wat pla.

Ons het ook 'n plekkie in Zimbali, en daar is 'n hele paar dinge wat kort kom in die landgoed van ons. Onder andere is daar gesê dat bediendes / tuiniers glad nie mag rondloop nie, maar dit gebeur wel. In Zimbali het ons ook die reëling, en geen bediendes / tuiniers loop rond nie, want ons almal betaal 'n deel vir die vervoer van die voetgangers (by ons maandelikse heffings) of jy van hulle dienste gebruik maak of nie en dit sluit ook die "suinige" inwoners naby die hek in wat hul bediendes wil laat loop. In Zimbali loop die bussie al die tyd wanneer daar passasiers is. Hier in ons landgoed betaal net sekere mense ekstra, en dan loop die bussie ook net op sekere tye, menende dat die huis eienaars nou die vervoer werk moet doen.

Die ander jakkals wat pla, is dat daar baie ongelukkigheid is onder die inwoners oor verskeie aangeleenthede en een kan net aanneem dat die bestuur van die landgoed hiervoor verantwoordlik is.

Groete

Mnr en Mev Hadida

Food for thought

Yesterday I had to return home at 9H00 from work to retrieve some documents from home and joined the queue of construction vehicles and others 50 metres before the palisade gate at the main entrance.
When are we going to be rid of construction in our estate – I don’t think for a very long time yet as long as the developer keeps increasing the number of new stands and for that matter continues to sit on many of his original stands that are still not been sold.
Whilst I understand his sentiment towards getting a good price this goes against the promises made in the beginning to build and “kry klaar”.
There must be no more building-time extensions allowed at the next AGM and if the developer is still sitting with unsold stands, he must pay the financial penalty like everybody else should.
Ironically, at the last AGM when a vote was taken on an extension for people who have not built or finished yet, there are some board members who have taken more than 2 years and are still not finished. An architectural board member near me is only building a single storey house where there has been no action for many, many months and well over 2 years since he started!!!
So with the developer, the board members who are taking forever to complete their houses, it is quite obvious why they wanted this extension in the first place.
Perhaps home owners interested in a united front for the benefit of the majority should arrange an unofficial meeting to discuss points and grievances which are often steam-rolled over at AGM because of lack of time. Sadly I think the time has arrived for owners with a true passion for this estate to ensure that it is run to the best possible interest.
I have heard that there is a possibility that our estate is going to be sued by one of our very own members because of failure by our some of our elected board of directors to perform their duties.
If this happens and the home owner is successful it should be us that in turn sue the directors responsible for failure to perform their duties according to company law in civil court action.
I have always been worried about accepting a directorship in any organisation because of this very point of possible liability. A directorship should not be considered like a private parking bay at some elite country club with the right to act in a condescending manner towards ordinary members.

Regards

Spiro

Homely Zebra

Returning home along Roller the other night I noticed a very tame Zebra munching some poor owner’s plants. The Zebra was obviously enjoying the food by the large quantity of black stuff that had obviously fallen out of his rear end. This will make nice compos.
It is so nice to see that the animals had settled in well and not as nearly as shy as when they were first introduced.

Peace Lover

Ek dog eers dis die wyn .......

Hello daar,

Baie mense het al die kameelperde gesien, maar ek het hulle nog nie met 'n oog gesien nie. Ek het gedink miskien kyk ek teen my oog velle vas, tot nou die aand.

Ons was uit na 'n partytjie en ek het 'n hele paar glase wyn ingehad. Dit was omtrent 11H30 toe ons met Roller straat opry huis toe. Om die draai net verby Archie Rutherford se huis toe dog ek nou wat maak die bome in die pad. Maar nee, die bome beweeg soos bene. Toe sien ek nou so wragtig, maar dis dan die kameelperde. Hulle was glad nie gepla met ons nie en wou ook nie uit die pad padgee nie. Hulle het ons net aangestaar en uiteindelik besluit om pad te gee. Maar ek moet sê hulle is tog te pragtig.

Vir die mense wat hulle nog nie gesien het nie, hou moed en dit sal die moeite werd wees as julle, hulle te siene kry.

Tot later

Sorieta

Why are we kept in the dark like mushrooms?

A while back we heard that there had been a security incident way up at a house at the top of the estate.

Estate management said that they would give us full details when available after their investigation. Strange, many months later ...... zip nothing.

Now, I believe there is been another incident last week and again we will probably receive no details. Calls to the main office are a waste of time. Has any of the bloggers got any info so that we can be enlightened for our own security?

They ask us to be aware and on the lookout, but what are we looking for (strangers or security guards) and when (day or night)? Give us details then we know what to look for.

We pay a lot for security and it seems that I must either cancel my family trip to Disney or hire a private guard for the two weeks we are away. This is bulls..t!!

Until later

Owl

Time for change

Hi all,

Pity I missed the last information meeting. I really wanted to ask what the format is for tendering for various services and products that our estate has to outsource. I stand corrected that the estate management outsourced to Coleman Properties (who are quick of the mark to write one nasty letters when you are a little late with payment regardless of the fact that you are at the other side of the world or Coleman Properties account staff miss allocate your prompt payments) were appointed without tender, and one can assume forever. Also it seems odd that one of this company's directors is also a director on our board. How strange that whilst at Home Talk in Meyersdal (our developer's offices) there proudly displayed on the same building is also "Bluesphere". Now Bluesphere I believe belongs to Nico Kruger who by coincidence is also our current board chairman. If this does not show smacks of favouritism, I do not know what does.

Meyersdal View, our immediate neighbours, had enough of their board scenario and voted these same people out of office. Since then they have had a hard time with our mutual developer over various issues. Perhaps we should follow their example and vote them out. I cannot believe that so many people are having such a difficult time having resolvable problems sorted out.

Surely the time is right for us to reassess what qualities we expect from our board members. As Barack Obama said and we should say "It is time for change".

Good luck to the Farrar's - keep strong and you shall prevail.

Chow

Gato

I'm back

Hi all

Sorry, I was out the country for a while (try to miss some of the vuvuzela frenzy), but I'm back now.

I have a few e-mails in my box which I'll will sort out and post onto the blog over the coming week. My first priority is catching up on my real work which despite promises nobody covered for me. I've seen quite a few interesting e-mails regarding the 'info meeting' which I missed as I was sitting on a sunny beach overseas sipping chiante. I must say it was quite a shocker coming back to the ice cold weather. At least it gives me an excuse for a lovely glass of red wine by a warm fire - not to mention hot curry and winter puddings with custard.

Keep watching!

Regards

Ciarra

Topics to be added to the meeting of 9th June 2010

Hi all,

As planned here is the e-mail to the board and Deon:

From: orbital-rynette
Date: 01/06/2010 11:17:56
To: Deon Oosthuizen
Cc: Archie Rutherford; Ryan Annandale; Nico Kruger; Rean Booysen & Sid Booysen; Trevor Coleman; Danny Twala; Neil Diamond; Jan van der Merwe; Elizabeth Waite; Etienne Stols; George Varughese; James Wright; John O'Connor; Malcolm Storey
Subject: Meeting 9 June 2010

Hi Deon,

Please, we would like the following added for discussion on the 9 June 2010:

1. The rules are actually for whom, as it is definitely not for all. How is it possible to maximize our investment if everybody does as they please?

2. Board members are chosen by the members, but obviously they forgot this, as quite a few of them are sitting on the board with their own
agenda, which is not beneficial to us, the members. They supposed to concentrate solely on proof, put before them on the table and stick
strictly to the rules. If the board get sued, we the members have to pay?

3. Board members do not answer letters.

5. Board members do not give us insight into doucments and information that we are entitled to.

6. Access to Ext 13 & 14. The quantity of stands in this extentions and the road works to be discussed.

7. Future extentions planned in our estate by the developer.

8. Explanation about board decision on stand 324, and how this decision is going to affect us all in the future.

9. To introduce a stop on all work going on, if a dispute arises. The board take too long to make decisions.

10. All problems and queries to be published where all members can view this, and a place where members can make suggestions as to
solve this.

11. Board close ranks when a problem arises, instead of opening up problems.

Regards

Rynette



If you can think of anything else to add, please e-mail me before the end of today.

Regards

Ciarra

Bye probleem oplossing

Hi Sorieta,

Hier is die ekspert se advies vir almal wat met bye gepla is.

Baie dankie Deon!

Groete

Ciarra



From: Deon Oosthuizen
Date: 2010/05/25 03:42:11 PM
To: ciarra.newsestate@gmail.com
Subject: Re:

Meeste insekte, bye en perdebye ingesluit, is redelik onaktief vroegoggend. Eers wanneer dit warmer word en hulle liggaamstemperature styg raak hulle aktief. Ek sal Sorieta aanraai om vroegoggend die perdebye se neste af te breek sonder om hulle dood te maak - meestal sal die perdebye elders gaan nesbou. Sou hulle hardnekkig weier om die nes elders te bou kan hulle met insekdoder gespuit word - ook liefs vroegoggend terwyl almal op die nes sit.
As die perdebynes op 'n plek is waar hulle min gevaar vir inwoners hou los hulle gerus. Perdebye is roofdiere en maak jag op ander insekte en help dus om plae in toom te hou in die tuin.

DEON OOSTHUIZEN
General Manager
MEYERSDAL NATURE ESTATE
naturemanager@natureestate.co.za
www.natureestate.co.za
Cell: 082 857 2019
Fax: 011 867 6997
Tel: 011 867 3475
----- Original Message -----

Bye wat pla?

Hello almal,

Ek wil net weet wat om met perdeby neste te maak, wat nou oral teen my mure vas sit. Ek het nou die dag gesien iemand in die estate is besig om sy neste met 'n stok af te krap, maar hy moes vlug. Ek is nie so braaf nie, so wat nou gemaak?

Groetnis

Sorieta

Hi Sorieta,

Ek sal jou brief na Deon Oosthuizen stuur. Kom ons kyk of hy vir ons raad het.

Groete

Ciarra

General Meeting 9 June 2010

Hi all,

Just to inform all that there will be an general meeting on the 9 June 2010 at 18:00 at the Clubhouse.

If you need more information about this meeting you can e-mail Trish Thompson at ecosecretary@natureestate.co.za.

Regards

Ciarra

We need permission to speak to Deon Oosthuizen

The board said that we are not allowed to speak to Deon Oosthuizen anymore.

See e-mails below.

----- Original Message -----
From: orbital-rynette
To: Deon Oosthuizen
Sent: Wednesday, May 12, 2010 8:38 AM


Hello

Wil weet wanneer het jy vir my 'n tydjie vir 'n paar vrae.

Bye bye

Rynette



From: Deon Oosthuizen
Date: 12/05/2010 11:53:43
To: orbital-rynette
Subject: Re:

Rynette,

The Board of Trustees have decided that any questions should be directed directly to them. You are welcome and invited to set up an appointment with the Board to discuss your questions in person.

Regards

DEON OOSTHUIZEN
General ManagerMEYERSDAL NATURE ESTATE
naturemanager@natureestate.co.zawww.natureestate.co.za
Cell: 082 857 2019
Fax: 011 867 6997
Tel: 011 867 3475
----- Original Message -----


----- Original Message -----
From: orbital-rynette
To: Deon Oosthuizen
Sent: Thursday, May 13, 2010 10:40 AM
Subject: Re:

Hi

The board is predictable. Are they scared that you will say something that will tarnish there already poor image further ? Why don't you ask them why they don't answer, not only my e-mails, but other members e-mails as well, that are sent to them via you. I actually wanted to talk to you and not them. We have talked to the board before - what a total waste of time.

What a self preservation society they are.

Mr Coleman with his "inner circle" board members have TOTAL control of the whole estate including all the staff with you, the estate manager included. Not too different to his influence over the entire board. He must just let me know when he wants to take over my household as well!

This letter is printed and filed - just another cross next to his name - one of many.

Regards

Rynette

Vir jou oë en ore alleenlik Deon - my kind het regtig baie die uitstappie nou die môre geniet. Jy het sy dag gemaak en hy kan nie wag vir die volgende uitstappie nie.

Dankie