Stanford Birds

Winners 1 - 10 plus a few photos which received commendations... to the lovely sounds of Freshlyground!

2011-10-15T11:19:00.000+02:00

With special thanks to Freshlyground for making available their music... it's such a lovely accompaniment to these beautiful birding images!

1st place winner - a Black-shouldered Kite by Brigina Barnard,
2nd place Gerrit Bastiaanse - The Catch - Caspian Tern,
3rd place Pied Kingfisher, All in a Days Work by Johan Mocke,
4th place Hennie Cilliers - Flavour of the Day - Malachite Kingfisher,
5th place Peter Hochfelden - White-fronted Bee-eater, Tuli Block, Botswana - Lucky 13,
6th place Mark Wiseman - Immature Black-breasted Snake Eagle - I am off, thank you for waiting,
7th place John Maarschalk - Here’s looking at you…!!! - Guineafowl,
8th place Richard Masson Displaying Weaver - Cape Weaver,
joint 8th place Per Holmen - Feed Me - Malachite Kingfishers,
9th place John Finch - Martial Eagle,
joint 9th place Awie Badenhorst - Southern double-collared sunbird,
10th place Michael McSweeney - Lunch - Little Egret with Catch
JUDGES 2011 Stanford Birding Photographic Competition
Philippa Elaine Castle and
Basie Van Zyl

Winners 2011 Stanford Birding Photographic Competition (philippacastle.birds@blogger.com)

2011-10-04T09:00:00.001+02:00

I've shared Winners 2011 Stanford Birding Photographic Competition

Click to open:

Winners 2011 Stanford Birding Photographic Competition

Google Docs makes it easy to create, store and share online documents, spreadsheets and presentations.

Stanford Birding Photographic Competition 2011 - entries on UTube

2011-09-27T12:20:00.002+02:00

South Africa Portfolio Travel Blog | Thank you

2011-08-25T14:58:00.000+02:00

South Africa Portfolio Travel Blog | Thank you
Shortly information about the upcoming Stanford Stretton's Bird Fair 2011 will appear on this travel blog.
Philippa

Prizes for Stanford Birding Photographic Competition 2011

2011-08-22T14:10:00.001+02:00

The ultimate shark cage diving experience
Marine Dynamics, a diving operation specialising in encounters with the Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias), is based in the fishing village of Gansbaai, Western Cape, South Africa. Six nautical miles away is Dyer Island, possibly the best place in the world to engage the Great White shark value R2700

Meet the mighty marine mammals...
http://www.dyer-island-cruises.co.za
Anyone who has had the joy of meeting a mighty whale face to face will tell you just how magical it is. Huge, gentle, mysterious, curious. Can you imagine a giant friend, like none other? As captivated by you as you are by him. A whale longer and wider than the boat in which you sit. value R1800

5 course dinner for two at "Red Indigo" Grootbos Forest Lodge!

A Rosie Breuer Book specialises in Nature books for children in 2 or more languages and other attractive books.

Rosie Breuer Books.

2 Full Colour copies of Annalize Mouton's "Portrait of a Village" first published in 2009
by Village Life, an imprint of Icon Communiations cc.

Gina and Otto would love to welcome you to "Haus Giotto", a small and intimate B&B in the peaceful village of De Kelders.
2 nights in Febuary 2012
Haus Giotto

One years subscription to Africa Birds and Birding
Africa Birds and Birding

One years subscription to Africa Geographic
Africa Geographic

Ist Prize, Youth Category
Win a tour with Hermanus Adventures for a
group of 4 kids on a tree top slide tour!! Value = +- R1700

Fijn Bush Telegraph: Fijn Bush Telegraph: Printing of Bird Photo entries and Stanford Art Café display and gin tasting event & prize-giving.

2011-08-20T18:30:00.000+02:00

Fijn Bush Telegraph: Fijn Bush Telegraph: Printing of Bird Photo entries and Stanford Art Café display and gin tasting event & prize-giving.

STANFORD STRETTONS BIRDFAIR PROGRAMME 30th September – 2nd October 2011

2011-07-05T19:29:00.000+02:00

STANFORD STRETTONS BIRDFAIR PROGRAMME

30th September – 2nd October 2011

Friday, 30th September

08h00: Mini-pelagic boat trip on Apex Predator from Kleinbaai (3 hours – booking essential; R200 per person)
12h00: Talk on Etosha, the Erongo Mountains and the Shoebill by Mike Graham
14h00: Presentation by Kate Robinson of the ADU at UCT on Waders, Nature’s International Globe Trotters, Monitoring Across the Hemispheres
12h00: Talk on “Fascinating Weaver Nests” by Dr Dieter Oschadleus of the Animal Demography Unit followed by an outing to view weaver colonies in Stanford
15h300: Talk by Zintja Wallar
17h300: Free Stretton’s Gin tasting and photographic competitions prize-giving at the Stanford Galleries Art Cafe
18h00-20h00: Bumper Stanford Farmers’ Market on Market Square

Saturday, 1st October

07h30: Three-hour guided field trip by Dave de Beer to find the Cape RockJumper and other birds endemic to the Overberg. (Limited to 14 people, booking essential, R100 per person - self-catering)
09h00: Hand puppet show for children at the Stanford Community Centre – free
09h00: Talk by Peter Chadwick – subject to be confirmed
11h00: “Eagle Encounters” live display of raptors at the Stanford Community Centre - free
14h00: Talk to be confirmed
15h30: Talk to be confirmed

Sunday, 2rd October

08h00: Guided Stanford bird walk led by Brummer Olivier
10h00: Talk to be confirmed
11h30: Walk and gourmet picnic at Mosaic Farm’s Spookhuis (for pricing and bookings contact info@mosaicfarm.net)
Times of individual talks and outings are subject to change

BOOKINGS

All talks, which are free, will take place in the Stanford Hotel Conference Centre, 18 Queen Victoria Street, (028 341 0900)

Stanfordinfo is coordinating a variety of activities (including Eagle Encounters) during the weekend for children.

Birding boat trips daily 30th September – 2nd October at 07h00, 12h30 and 16h30 (+- 2 hours) @ R80 per person on the Klein River Departure from King St jetty and may be booked at Stanfordinfo www.stanfordinfo.co.za
All bookings to be made through Stanfordinfo during office hours
TEL: 028 341 0340
Email: ask@stanfordinfo.co.za

For further information contact Royd Frith
(roydf@mweb.co.za or 083 676 2282)
or Stanfordinfo during office hours
TEL: 028 341 0340
Email: ask@stanfordinfo.co.za

Table Mountain Wizard by Rosemarie Breuer

2010-11-06T09:50:00.002+02:00

A children's book and first bird book in one: Zettelwitz - Table Mountain Wizard
by Rosemarie Breuer, in German and English
with 77 Illustrations by the author and 57 bird illustrations by Jill Adams

To order your own copy, for only R180, send an email to info@stanfordbirding.co.za

It's really great. The theme is original, the story exciting and the whole work can be appreciated on many different levels (a characteristic of great literature!)
Sinclair Wynchank

A new unique, imaginative and educational children's book. It has been written with a play on words, and provides a page for every letter of the alphabet.
Geraldine Mitton

Runner-up Prize Winners Stanford Birding Photographic Competition 2010

2010-10-06T13:56:00.012+02:00

I am most pleased to report that there were over 100 entries into the Stanford Birding Photographic Competition 2010. The average standard of photography is exceptionally high.

Lesser double-collared Sunbird by Don MacIver

Heron in flight by Hennie Cilliers

Shoebill in flight by Lee Whittam
Dawn and it's freezing by Mike Graham

Touch Down by Basie van Zyl

Flamingoes in Flight by Anna Tomlinson

Not all entrants were able to make it to the gin-tasting and prize-giving function at the Stanford Stretton's Bird Fair, however, on the spot prizes were awarded to various photographers. Some of the photographs included here are "highly commended". As the organiser of this competition and head judge, my mission is to give recognition to these amazing bird photographers and award prizes based on the best submission by each photographer.

I did receive assistance with the judging process by Dave de Beer, a big thank you to him... as well as a number of people who left their comments on the photo's online. I do understand that the Internet technology can be quite tricky, but I wish to thank those who did manage to "like" the photos and/or leave their comments.

My turf by Lee Slabber-
Grey Heron & Croc with fish by Peter Hood

Standing guard by Leo Benning

Landing Approach ~ Blue Heron by Piet Smith - This beautiful picture won the specialist category BEST HERON PHOTOGRAPH

Feeding African Black Oystercatcher by Basie van Zyl

Dove Love by Basie van Zyl

Malachite Sunbird by Awie Badenhorst

Orange Breasted Sunbird by Derek Stuart

Last Light by Piet Smith

Kestrel Approach by Lee Slabber

Winners Stanford Birding Photographic Competition 2010

2010-10-06T12:55:00.002+02:00

1st Prize Winner ~ Feeding Swallow-tailed Bee-eater by Basie van Zyl

2nd Prize Winner ~ Seagull Diving by Piet Smith

3rd Prize Winner ~ Fish with no chips by Mike Graham

Youth Category 1st Prize Winner ~ Green Pigeons by Francois du Plessis

Stanford Birding Photographic Competiton 2010

2010-09-15T23:36:00.001+02:00

Click on the photograph to view all the entries and sign in to Google to leave your comments.

Banners by Bruce & pONY eXPRESS sirstanford@gmail.com

Stanford Birding Photographic Competition. former birding entries with Sylvia Schulman

2010-09-12T17:14:00.002+02:00

Stanford Birding Photographic Competition.

Entries from previous years

with

Sylvia Schulman playing Classical Piano

and the track "Dizzy Fingers",

an excerpt from her latest CD

"A Few Of My Favourite Things"

Buy the new CD by visiting

http://www.swellendampiano.blogspot.com/

or sending an email to sylbenat@futurejhb.co.za

Prizes Stanford Birding Photographic Competition 2010

2010-09-10T11:39:00.022+02:00

Ist Prize, Adult Category

Win a pair of Pentax Binoculars from Foto First Hermanus

PENTAX 8x42 DCF HRc Binocular
Is a full-size binocular in a smaller package. With 8X magnification, large 42mm objective lenses for superior light gathering and a fiber reinforced polycarbonate body with nitrogen-filled waterproof (JIS Class 6) construction, these are the smaller binoculars are perfect to use in tough weather and lighting conditions.

Value R2800

Ist Prize, Youth Category

Win a tour with Hermanus Adventures for a group of 4 kids on a tree top slide tour!!

Value = +- R1700

2nd Prize, Adult Category Marine Dynamics tours

3rd Prize, Adult Category Dyer Island Cruises
Meet the mighty marine mammals...
Anyone who has had the joy of meeting a mighty whale face to face will tell you just how magical it is. Huge, gentle, mysterious, curious. Can you imagine a giant friend, like none other? As captivated by you as you are by him. A whale longer and wider than the boat in which you sit.
value R1800

Runner Up Prize, Adult Category
This voucher entitles you
to enjoy a 5-course Dinner
for 2 at “Red Indigo” at
Grootbos Forest Lodge!

Runner Up Prize, Adult Category
Dinner for two at Joe's Restaurant & Bar

Runner Up Prize Quad Biking for 2 at Sir Robert Stanford Estate

Runner Up Prize Breakfast for two at Madrés Country Kitchen

Runner Up Prize 2 Full Colour copies of Annalize Mouton's "Portrait of a Village" first published in 2009 by Village Life, an imprint of Icon Communiations cc.

Runner Up Prize 1 Year Subscription to Stanford River Talk

Runner Up Prize 1 Year Subscription to Africa Birds & Birding

Recognition on http://www.stanfordbirding.co.za/ and affiliated marketing, where applicable.

International Vulture Awareness Day

2010-09-05T12:54:00.001+02:00

Start Date/Time: Saturday, September 04, 2010 9:30 AM
End Date/Time: Saturday, September 04, 2010 3:30 PM
Recurring Event: One time event
Importance: Normal Priority
Description: Please Join the EWT, BirdLife South Africa and VULPRO Rehabilitation Centre for a Family Fun Day to celebrate International Vulture Awareness Day.

Bring your friends, family and picnic baskets and join us for a day of talks and and activities in relation to vulture conservation, pony rides, jumping castles and other fun activities for the whole family. Click here to see our programme.

Cost: R30 per vehicle

Address: Plot 121
Rietfontein
Boekenhoutkloof Road which becomes Kenneth Road

For more information please contact Tanya on 011 496 1102 or email tanyaf@ewt.org.za

Calling all bird photographers...

2010-08-27T14:31:00.002+02:00

SELECT THE CATEGORY WHICH SUITS YOU BEST
•Professional Photographer
•Amateur Photographer
•Youth Photographer (U18)
SUPPLY THESE DETAILS
•Caption:
•Name of Bird:
•Location Photograph taken:
•Photographer Name:
•Photograher Email Address:
•Photographer Home Town:
•Attendance Friday, 1st October function: Yes / No
In order to receive the prizes, entrants are requested to preferably be present themselves (or send a representative) at the function on Friday, 1st October 17h00: Free gin tasting and photographic competitions prize-giving. Should this not be a viable option, please mention this clearly.
info@stanfordbirding.co.za
View terms & conditions at http://www.stanfordbirding.co.za/photo.html

Check out Albino calf highlight aboard Whale Whisperer | Whalewatchsa

2010-08-20T13:40:00.001+02:00

I want you to take a look at: Albino calf highlight aboard Whale Whisperer | Whalewatchsa

There are pictures now of the African Jackass Penguin too... :-)

Save Japan's Dolphins

2010-08-16T22:07:00.000+02:00

Angel Lighthouse

2010-08-14T22:39:00.001+02:00

Angel Lighthouse from Philippa Castle on Vimeo.

"Angel", lyrics and vocals by Johannes Basson.

I danced for Stanford Birding and for Stanford 150th anniversary celebrations... You may have missed it!

As a former Southern African Tour Guide of quite a number of years and manager of a guestfarm in Stanford... I am in a position to assist you with accommodation in the greater Overberg Area. This is the I.B.A. Important Birding Area...

So, wherever you want to stay and whatever you want to do, I can and will be of assistance to you. My fee is entirely negotiable, depends on your requirements and may, in fact, be free... i.e. paid by the establishment and activity operator... you may want to go shark-cage diving, or whale viewing by boat... take a trip on the African Queen or simply have a picnic at Klein River Cheese Factory.

Let me be your personal guide, I will make your stay in the Overberg and South Africa memorable beyond words... Email info@stanfordbirding.co.za or call 082 943 4327

STANFORD STRETTON’S BIRD FAIR 2010 1-3 OCTOBER

2010-08-13T17:48:00.009+02:00

STANFORD STRETTON’S BIRD FAIR 2010 1-3 OCTOBER
The tradition of the Stanford Bird Fair continues due to the generous sponsorship that makes this event possible. Edward Snell & Co are sponsoring all birding activities under the banner of their Strettons London Dry Gin brand.
BirdLife Walkerbay, assisted by Stanfordinfo, are hosting the event this year. We are putting together a fair that, apart from birds, will cover a variety of activities attracting a cross-section of people, young and old, to Stanford for what will prove to be a memorable weekend.
We are once again lucky to have access to an impressive array of birding experts who will be delivering talks, leading guided field outings and hopefully will be identifying local birding hotspots in the Overberg for those who wish to do their own thing. We are optimistic that these activities will allow our guests to acquaint themselves with the elusive Rock Jumper, the highly-endangered Bank Cormorant and a variety of other birds endemic to the Overberg. In addition, there will be talks on Overberg amphibians and bats as well as an outing to spot the Blue Crane. In addition, the organisers will pay special attention to arranging activities for non-birders and children. These will include items such as talks on Overberg amphibians, as well as South African bats, the ever-popular Eagle Encounters (raptors in flight), snakes and a variety of films. There will be continual birding river trips for the duration of the weekend as well as a mini-pelagic boat trip from Kleinbaai. Keep an eye on the program for up to date details of all events and outings.

The Stanford Birding Photographic Competition is becoming an ever popular part of the Stanford Bird Fair and this year we are pleased to inform you the 2010 STANFORD BIRDING Photographic Competition has begun!

The 2010 STANFORD BIRDING Photographic Competition is now open for submissions! Last year, the winner of the competition was Basie van Zyl with his Little Egret Feeding.

He won a Flight of the Giants with African Wings, to photograph both whales and birds!

So, you may be pondering why enter this competition - well you have the opportunity to bathe in much admiration and fame…

Basie made the front page of the Hermanus Times, but what else?

Prizes of course... all of which are certainly worth aiming for! What are the prizes you may well ask?

Pentax Binoculars from Foto First to the value of R2 800

Shark cage diving with Marine Dynamics to the value of R2 700

Dyer Island Cruises whale watching boat trip to the value of R1 800 (More to follow…)

So, what are you waiting for – go on – get all the info on rules, resizing of images and much more... All at http://www.stanfordbirding.co.za/

Just remember entries must reach the moderators before 24 September 2010. Only e-mailed submissions will be accepted. The address is info@stanfordbirding.co.za. May the best photos win!

The judging of the popular photographic competition will be followed by a Strettons Gin tasting at the Stanford Evening Market.

For further information:
Bird Fair – Royd Frith 028 341 0896 028 341 0896 or roydf@web.co.za

Photographic Competition – Philippa Castle 082 943 4327 or info@stanfordbirding.co.za

Stanford Festival – Steph - Stanfordinfo 028 341 0340 028 341 0340 or ask@stanfordinfo.co.za.

BIRDFAIR PROGRAMME

2010-08-04T12:03:00.001+02:00

BIRDFAIR PROGRAMME
1st – 3rd October 2010

Times of individual talks and outings are subject to change

Friday, 1st October 07h30 Mini-pelagic boat trip on Apex Predator from Gansbaai
(3 hours – booking essential; price to be confirmed

07h30 Half-day self-guided field tours to identified birding hotspots in the Overberg

09h30 Overberg Amphibians talk by Naas Terblanche

11h30 Talk on Weaver Nest Building by Dieter Oschadleus of the ADU / Percy Fitzpatrick Institute

14h00 Presentation by Dave de Beer on the production of his
unique birding guide DVD

15h30 Talk by Sally Hofmeyr on Conservation Impacts of Environmental Change on Large Populations of Threatened Large Terrestrial Bird Species in Southern Africa

17h00 Free gin tasting and photographic competitions prize-giving

18h00-20h00 Bumper Stanford Farmers’ Market

Saturday, 2nd October 07h30 Half-day guided field trip by Dave de Beer on birds that may
be encountered in the Overstrand area. We are hoping to identify over 90 species on this trip. (Limited to 20 people, booking essential, price to be confirmed).

07h30 Guided walk around Grootbos Reserve with Brummer Olivier

11h00 Eagle Encounters

14h00 “Moving in on the Bats” by Sam Hockey

15h30 Phil Hockey presentation - “Life’s a Beach – the changing world of the African Black Oyster Catcher”

19h00 Stanford Festival “Barn Dance” at Weltevreden Farm (to be confirmed)

Sunday, 3rd October 08h00 Self-guided trip to Platbos Indigenous Forest

10h00 Guided Stanford Wandelpad bird walk ?

12h30 Gourmet picnic at Mosaic Farm’s Spookhuis (for pricing and bookings contact info@mosaicfarm.net)

 Birding boat trips on the Klein River are available throughout the weekend and may be booked at Stanfordinfo along with any other activities that require booking.

 Stanfordinfo is coordinating a variety of activities (including Eagle Encounters) during the weekend for children.

 For further information contact Royd Frith (roydf@mweb.co.za or 083 676 2282) or Steph (ask@stanfordinfo.co.za or 028 341 0340)

STANFORD BIRDING PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION 2010

2010-07-23T12:39:00.002+02:00

STANFORD BIRDING PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION
It is important that I ensure all entrants are aware that bird photos submitted for the competition are subject to the following rules, terms and conditions:

Email all entries to info@stanfordbirding.co.za
SELECT THE CATEGORY WHICH SUITS YOU BEST
•Professional Photographer
•Amateur Photographer
•Youth Photographer (U18)
SUPPLY THESE DETAILS
•Caption:
•Name of Bird:
•Location Photograph taken:
•Photographer Name:
•Photograher Email Address:
•Photographer Home Town:
•Attendance Friday, 1st October function: Yes / No
In order to receive the prizes, entrants are requested to preferably be present themselves (or send a representative) at the function on Friday, 1st October 17h00: Free gin tasting and photographic competitions prize-giving. Should this not be a viable option, please mention this clearly.

Email all entries to info@stanfordbirding.co.za
Legal Condition
By entering the competition the entrant explicitly agrees to waive any claims against Stanford Birding Photographic Competition, its associates, principals, and media, for any liability for any injuries, damages, loss, claim, action or demand of any kind whatsoever arising from or in connection with Stanford Birding Photographic Competition.

If for any reason Stanford Birding Photographic Competition is not capable of completing the competition, including as a result of infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorised intervention, fraud, technical failures or any other cause beyond the control of Stanford Birding Photographic Competition that corrupts or affects administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of Stanford Birding Photographic Competition, the organisers reserve the right at their sole discretion to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend Stanford Birding Photographic Competition.

General Rules
The competition is open to all photographers except employees and/or judges (including immediate family of the above) of the Stanford Birding Photographic Competition. All images must be original and be made by the entrant on photographic emulsion or a digital camera. By virtue of entering an image the entrant certifies the work as his or her own.

Individual photographs must include images taken in the 24 months prior to the start of the competition on 1 June 2010. Images may be entered in either colour or black and white.

Your entry into this competition constitutes your agreement to allow your photographs to be published (as a selected semi-finalist, finalist or final award winner) in any medium (print, digital or exhibitions, of whatever kind) owned by Stanford Birding Photographic Competition, its sponsors and media partners.

Entrants retain ownership of their images and all other rights to future use of these. Royalties will be paid for any commercial use of images.

Judging Process
Qualified local judges are appointed by Stanford Birding Photographic Competition to judge entries. Photographs will be uploaded onto Google to receive votes. This may or may not have a bearing on the final judging.

Unsuccessful entrants will not receive email notification.

Digital Manipulation
The Stanford Birding Photographic Competition does not allow any digitally manipulated images. In order to eliminate any confusion in this regard, photographic enhancements that are permitted include:

•minor cleaning up
•dust removal/spotting
•levels and curves adjustments
•colour, saturation and contrast enhancements (do not over-saturate images)
•dodging and burning
•enhancements employed while taking the image
•cropping (be mindful of the effect on file sizes)
•sharpening (use sparingly)
All winners may be required to provide proof of authenticity, either via submission of the original RAW files or, in instances where the RAW file is not available, further evidence will be required to substantiate authenticity.

Decisions by the organisers in this regard are final and by entering the competition the photographer implicitly accepts all rulings of Stanford Birding Photographic Competition.

Labeling
Clearly label your photograph with the name of the bird/s and the photographer.

Digital Submission Guidelines
Whether the original source of the image is colour or black and white negative film, slide film or a digital camera, only digital images in JPEG file format are accepted.

Note that:

•Images are to be resized to 1 400 pixels in the longest dimension
•No borders are to be added to images submitted
•Images to be saved as highest possible quality JPEG

Email all entries to info@stanfordbirding.co.za

FW: request from Dr Masuru Emoto re living creatures in Gulf of Mexico

2010-07-21T10:02:00.000+02:00

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Philippa Castle

FIJN BUSH TELEGRAPH

Email ads@stanfordlocals.co.za

Website www.fbtelegraph.blogspot.com

Tel 082 943 4327

P Consider the environment - do you really need to print this email?

From: Melissa Krige [mailto:platbos@orcawireless.co.za]
Sent: 19 July 2010 08:20 PM
To: 'Shona'; 'Andree Bonthuys'; 'Maaike Heger'; 'Karlijn Heger'; 'Karl Geggus'; 'Leli'; 'Graham Saayman'; 'Nicole Rossouw'; 'Nicola Jenkin'; 'Dawn Myburgh'; 'hendrik,Jomien Rabie'; 'Sandra Slabbert'; 'Gabbi Cook'; 'Niël Jonker'; 'Gillian Eyre'; 'Philippa Castle'; 'Vanessa Nixon'; 'Lesley Morgan'; 'Merle Levin'; 'Shanti Mather'
Subject: request from Dr Masuru Emoto re living creatures in Gulf of Mexico

Dr. Emoto has proved the power of prayer in all his research on water. Let us help in the healing of the Gulf of Mexico due to contamination by the oil, by using the prayer below.

Please spread the word!

Dr. Masaru Emoto, whom many of you may remember as the scientist from Japan who has done all the research and publications about the characteristics of water and how the molecular structure of water can be influenced positively through loving thought/prayer, has asked that this information be passed on. Among other things, his research reveals that water physically responds to emotions.

Right now, most of us have the predominantly angry emotion when we consider what is happening in the Gulf. And while certainly we are justified in that emotion, we may be of greater assistance to our planet and its life forms, if we sincerely, powerfully and humbly pray according to the prayer that Dr Emoto, himself, has proposed.

"I send the energy of love and gratitude to the water and all the living creatures in the Gulf of Mexico and its surroundings.
To the whales, dolphins, pelicans, fish, shellfish, plankton, coral, algae, and all living creatures . . . I am sorry.
Please forgive me.
Thank you.
I love you. "

We are passing this request to people who we believe might be willing to participate in this prayer, to set an intention of love and healing that is so large, so overwhelming that we can perform a miracle in the Gulf of Mexico.

We are not powerless. We are powerful. Our united energy, speaking this prayer daily...multiple times daily....can literally shift the balance of destruction that is happening.

We don't have to know how......we just have to recognize that the power of love is greater than any power active in the Universe today.

Please join us in repeating this healing prayer of Dr. Emoto's.
And feel free to copy and paste this to send it around the planet.
Let's take charge, and do our own clean up!

And so it is! Please pass it on.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

Melissa Krige

PO Box 1438

Gansbaai

7220

Cell: 082 4110448

info@platbos.co.za

www.platbos.co.za

Advertise on Stanford Birding

2010-07-02T14:17:00.006+02:00

Advertising space is now available for the following 1 year. Kindly contact info@stanfordbirding.co.za for current rates.

THE LIFE OF BIRDS THURSDAY 24 JUNE

2010-06-20T12:46:00.001+02:00

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BirdLife Walkerbay Film Show : THE LIFE OF BIRDS THURSDAY 24 JUNE

Philippa Castle

Stanford Glendower Bird Fair Committee

Email info@stanfordbirding.co.za

Website www.stanfordbirding.co.za

Tel 028 341 0570

Mobile 082 943 4327

Blog www.stanfordbirds.blogspot.com

P Consider the environment - do you really need to print this email?

Good evening all,

Our film, Episode 1 : To Fly or not To Fly by David Attenborough, will be shown at the Stanford Galleries Art Café, corner Queen Victoria and Longmarket Streets, Stanford, on Thursday 24 June.

The Red Room has been allocated to us.

There will be a cash bar if you would like a drink from 6.30p.m. The film will be shown at 7 p.m. and those who would like some soup or a pizza or anything else can stay afterwards. Soccer fans can be in time for the game at 8.30. It would be appreciated if you could indicate attendance and whether you will stay with us for something to eat.

PS – The Raptor Course is now fully booked so kindly ensure that payment is made to ABSA or in cash to me as soon as possible as enquiries are still coming in on a daily basis. We have a waitlist of people who would like to attend.

Regards,

ELSA

028-3410499

072-2744005

BirdLife Walkerbay Film Show : THE LIFE OF BIRDS

2010-06-18T15:22:00.001+02:00

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Good morning all,

During winter we usually have a film evening when the weather is unpredictable and then have supper afterwards.

We have obtained The Life of Birds – the complete series consisting of 10 episodes, written and presented by David Attenborough. Each episode lasts approximately 55 minutes and tells the story of how birds evolved over hundreds of millions of years.

Episode 1 : To Fly or not To Fly will be shown next week as soon as I have secured a venue.

This notice is just to let you know that something is being planned for June. Final details will follow on Friday.

PS – The Raptor Course is almost fully booked so kindly ensure that payment is made to ABSA or in cash to me as soon as possible as enquiries are still coming in on a daily basis.

Regards,

ELSA

028-3410499

072-2744005

BirdLife Walkerbay Raptor Course 06 & 07 JULY

2010-06-07T12:27:00.001+02:00

Good morning all,

We have an exciting raptor course planned for 06 & 07 July in Stanford. The course will be presented by MIKE FORD, respected and experienced birding expert from Vermont. All are welcome so please tell your friends and family. Young people are very welcome as it is during the school holidays. It is very reasonable at R65 per person for two mornings including tea or coffee. Below is the programme:

BirdLife Walkerbay presents

RAPTOR IDENTIFICATION COURSE BY MIKE FORD 06 & 07 JULY 2010

THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY NOT TO BE MISSED. BOOK EARLY AS ONLY 40 PEOPLE CAN ATTEND

VENUE : STANFORD MUNICIPAL BOARD ROOM, QUEEN VICTORIA STREET

COST: R65 PER PERSON

* The course is done using a powerpoint audio-visual presentation to assist the attendees in sorting out and identifying raptors, concentrating on the two main groupings of confusing species i.e. large brown raptors and small grey and white raptors. Attendees will be provided with a CD containing the course material, which they can print, use and keep. If anyone attending is not able to do this, then printed copies can be provided on request at extra cost.

PROGRAMME

TUESDAY 06 JULY

0830 Tea & Coffee provided

0900 The first day is focused on the large raptors:-

- Vultures.

- The "Big Five".

- Large all-brown eagles.

- Other large raptors.

- Buzzards and Kites.

There will be a short break in the middle of the morning

1200 close

WEDNESDAY 07 JULY

0830 Tea & Coffee

0900 Day two moves on to the smaller raptors:-

- Harriers.

- Goshawks.

- Sparrowhawks.

- Other hawks.

- Falcons.

- Migratory falcons.

- Kestrels.

Summary and question time.

1200 close

Enquiries Elsa Gebhard elsag@global.co.za 028-3410499, 0722644005

Confirmation on receipt of payment. Bank ABSA Hermanus code 334812., account BirdLife Walkerbay, account no. 9132783959

FW: Nuclear-1 EIA: Draft EIR Comment period extension letter

2010-05-28T11:39:00.001+02:00

From: Nuclear [mailto:nuclear1@acerafrica.co.za]
Sent: 27 May 2010 02:58 PM
To: philippa@vectortech.co.za
Subject: Nuclear-1 EIA: Draft EIR Comment period extension letter

Ref No: Nuclear1 23E

Page: 1 of 1

Dear Ms Philippa Castle

ESKOM - ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA: 12/12/20/944)

FOR A PROPOSED NUCLEAR POWER STATION AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE

REVIEW OF DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT

EXTENSION OF COMMENT PERIOD

As previously announced, an opportunity to review the Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) commenced on 06 March 2010 with a revised closing date of 31 May 2010.

Please be advised that the comment period has been further extended by an additional 30 days and the closing date for comment is now 30 June 2010 (117 days). You are, therefore, afforded the opportunity to use the extended period to further review the report and submit any additional comments.

Once the comments have been received a Revised Draft EIR, including its specialist studies, will be produced and placed at public venues for a further comment period of 45 days.

On behalf of the EIA Project Team, I should like to thank all those who have attended public meetings and Key Stakeholder Feedback Meetings held during the period 23 March – 25 May 2010, those who have already submitted comments on the Draft EIA Report and those who will take further time to review the reports and submit comments.

For additional information, please contact: Bongi Shinga or Dalene Murie at:

E-mail: nuclear1@acerafrica.co.za l P O Box 503, Mtunzini, 3867 l Tel: 086 010 4958 l Fax: 035 340 2232

Kind regards.

Yours sincerely

Ms Bongi Shinga

Public Participation Team

STANFORD STRETTON'S BIRD FAIR 1–3 OCTOBER 2010

2010-05-25T15:44:00.005+02:00

Greater Flamingoes on Vermont Pan by Annalize Mouton of Village Life

STANFORD STRETTONS GIN BIRD FAIR & FESTIVAL 01 – 03 OCTOBER 2010

Once again a huge thank you to Edward Snell & Co for their continued and much appreciated generous sponsorship which makes this event possible. Our sponsor has decided to use one of their other products, Strettons Dry Gin, as the vehicle under which they will sponsor bird fairs.

BirdLife Walkerbay (and Stanfordinfo) will be hosting this event. The intention is to put together a fair that, apart from birds, will cover a variety of activities that will attract a cross-section of people, young and old, to Stanford for what will prove to be a memorable weekend.

On the bird fair front, we once again are lucky to have access to an impressive array of birding experts who will be delivering talks and guided field outings, hopefully to find the elusive Rock Jumper, the highly-endangered Bank Cormorant, and a variety of birds endemic to the Overstrand. In addition, there will be talks on Overberg amphibians and bats as well as an outing to spot the Blue Crane. For non-birders and children there will be the ever-popular Eagle Encounters (raptors in flight), snake and spider men and a variety of films. In addition there will be continual birding river trips for the duration of the weekend as well as a mini-pelagic boat trip from Kleinbaai. The popular photographic competition will be judged and will be followed by a Strettons Dry Gin tasting.

From the festival point of view, Stanfordinfo will be hosting the famous Stanford Farmers’ Market on 1st October, a barn dance (?) on the 2nd and will be laying on a variety of activities for non-birders.

A full programme of events if currently being compiled and will be available on our website www.stanfordbirding.co.za. towards the end of May 2010.

For further information, Bird Fair – Royd Frith 028 341 0896 or roydf@web.co.za,
Stanford Festival – Steph - Stanfordinfo 028 341 0340 or stanfordinfo@overberg.co.za.

Stanford Alive and Kicking

2010-05-06T10:31:00.003+02:00

BLSA curriculum based lesson plans for learners

2010-04-19T15:43:00.000+02:00

Dear All,

Hope this finds you all well. Please excuse me if you have already picked up on this. The lesson plans for this year's national bird week are now available.

National Bird Week 3 to 9 May 2010

Bird of the Year: Lesser Flamingo

Teacher and learner resources (curriculum based lecture packs) now available on our website at: www.birdlife.org.za/page/5319/national_bird_week or contact Sadie on Tel: 011-789 1122 for more information.

At the bottom of this webpage you will find links to:

National Bird Week learners activity book
National Bird Week lesson plans
National Bird Week Flamingo Fact Sheet

As usual these are really outstanding resources and can be used very effectively in the class situation.

It would be appreciated could look at this and assist us by forwarding this to schools (and maybe more particularly teachers) in your area.

Your help with this will be appreciated.

Regards.

Anton

Photographers Direct - stock photography

2010-04-15T12:35:00.000+02:00

OCF NEWSFLASH NO 3 - BANTAMSKLIP NUCLEAR POWER STATION

2010-03-23T15:28:00.000+02:00

Dear All

Please make sure you try and attend one of the Bantamsklip EIA Meetings, it is vitally important. This is our last chance to show our opposition to this planned Nuclear Station.

I will be going to the Pearly Beach meeting tomorrow night.

PROVINCE	AREA	DAY AND DATE	VENUE	TIME
Western Cape	Hermanus	23 March 2010	Overstrand Municipal Auditorium	18H00 – 20H00
	Pearly Beach	24 March 2010	Pearly Beach Club	18H00 – 20H00
	Bredasdorp	25 March 2010	Overberg Agri Hall	18H00 – 20H00

See below a very good overview from Rob Fryer and the OCF.

Kind Regards

Amanda

Amanda Jephson

Artist/ Landscaper

ND Land Tech; BAFA; MAFA

Cell 084 3502025

Vox Phone 0878085394

Email: ajephson@omail.co.za

Assegaai Bosch Farm - www.freewebs.com/assegaaibosch

Baardskeerdersbos Art Route www.baardskeerdersbosartroute.com

Fine Art - www.southafricanartists.com/home/AmandaJephson

Fine Art - www.PictureTrail.com/amandajephson

Stop the proposed Nuclear Power Station at Bantamsklip!

www.savebantamsklip.org

www.bantamsklip.com

The Cat Post - www.ajephson.blogspot.com/

-----Original Message-----
From: Overstrand Conservation Foundation [mailto:ocf@telkomsa.net]
Sent: Tuesday, March 23, 2010 9:39 AM
To: ocf@telkomsa.net
Subject: OCF NEWSFLASH NO 3 - BANTAMSKLIP NUCLEAR POWER STATION

No 3 – 23 March 2010

Bantamsklip – Information Gleaned from the Eskom Spokesman

on the Nuclear Programme

The true status of Bantamsklip as a potential site for a nuclear power station became clear on Wednesday 17^th March during a telephone interview the OCF conducted with Mr Tony Stott. The interview was held during the weekly OCF Conservation Matters programme on Whale Coast FM (96FM). Stott is the Eskom spokesman for the nuclear programme.

During the interview the following was learned:

1. No “fatal flaw” has been revealed by the specialist studies conducted during the EIA for Bantamsklip as a site for a future nuclear power station. While it is now not the preferred site for the first nuclear power station to be built, if the EIR is approved as it stands, it will stay on the list and may be the site for the next nuclear installation.

2. The reason that Bantamsklip is not the preferred site is not only the cost of the transmission lines as reported in the media; the additional cost is only of the order of 5% of the overall cost of Nuclear 1. While the cost of the transmission lines to Bantamsklip will be more than for the other two sites (Thyspunt and Duinefontein), the fact that the EIA’s for the Bantamsklip transmission lines are lagging badly behind schedule is an important factor in ranking Bantamsklip lower than the other two sites for Nuclear 1. There are also difficulties associated with transporting large equipment to Bantamsklip.

The deadline by which Nuclear 1 must be commissioned means that construction needs to start in 2011 and this is not possible given the delays in the Bantamsklip transmission line EIAs. Major road reconstruction to and/or building of barge handling facilities at Bantamsklip will be required to enable bringing large equipment to site. These transportation facilities will themselves require further EIAs and there is just not enough time for these to be done in time to meet the construction deadlines for Nuclear 1.

3. Eskom intends that 5 nuclear power plants will be built and that Bantamsklip will be one of the sites that will be used for a future project unless environmental authorisation is refused for the site and/or the associated transmission lines.

4. If authorisation is not given for the preferred Thyspunt site, it remains possible that consideration could again be given to using the Bantamsklip site for Nuclear 1. The site finally chosen will depend upon the terms and conditions in the record of decision in the authorisation of the EIRs for the 3 sites currently under consideration.

5. No final decision has been taken on whether the 2 EIA’s for the transmission lines associated with Bantamsklip will be continued with now or whether they will be held in abeyance until later. The feasibility of transmission line corridors proposed by Eskom has not been confirmed by the EAP, Arcus Gibb. Stott admitted that the mountainous terrain makes it difficult to find a route that is feasible from an engineering and environmental perspective.

6. Stott believes that there are many people in the Overstrand, including senior people in the Overstrand Municipality, who are in favour of the building of Nuclear 1 at Bantamsklip.

It remains very important that I&APs remain involved in the EIA process to its conclusion. Proper review of all the specialist reports is most important to ensure that all concerns are identified and fully addressed. Those I&APs who have expertise that allows them to critically review the specialist reports are requested to study the reports and to submit comments within the allowed response time (10 May).

All I&APs are encouraged to attend the public meetings that will be held this week to discuss the draft EIR (the first of these is at 17:00 on Tuesday, 23 March, in the Hermanus Municipal Auditorium).

Kind regards

Rob Fryer

Manager, Overstrand Conservation Foundation

Location: Bosko Christian School, Fairways Avenue, Hermanus 7200

Post: PO Box 1949, Hermanus

Phone: +27 (0)28 312 2748

Cell: +27 (0)72 185 5726

Fax (SA) 086 695 0046

e-mail (w): ocf@telkomsa.net

URL: www.ocf.co.za

Stanford Earth Hour & Mini JAZZ Fest Tickets, Performers and Event line-up

2010-03-17T12:05:00.000+02:00

Stanford 2010 Earth Hour picnic on the Village Green and Mini Jazz Fest

Saturday the 27^th March 2010

NEWS FLASH!!

Welcome to the update for the Stanford Earth Hour Newsletter!

After the success of Stanford’s 2009 Earth Hour it was decided to lengthen the Event and create a fund-raising oppurtunity in support of Overberg Conservation Foundation, the umbrella body of all Conservation groups in the Overberg. The Green offers a venue unlike anywhere else in the Overberg in its safety and topography. (No cliffs/ bushes etc) The Cape Town Jazz Fest takes place 3 days after this event. It is the 3^rd best jazz fest in the world. 35 000 jazz flyers are flying into the Western Cape at this time and the Cape Town Jazz fest brings in over 54 million rand to the Western Cape. This is why the idea came about of adding a Mini Jazz Festival to our Earth Hour…

ALL IN AID OF OVERSTRAND CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

EVENT LINE-UP

1) 3pm - The High Street Sunset Market (as we did for the Christmas Market) begins. The High Street will be closed to traffic and Stanford will turn into a mini New Orleans with Treats and Eats, Pumpkins and Pony Rides. All the stores and antique shops will stay open late spilling their wares onto the High Street and Stoeps of Stanford.

2) 6/7pm The Earth Hour picnic on the Green will converge on the bordering Village Green. Local Award winning produce will be there with which visitors can fill their picnic baskets.

3) There will be a brief talk and then the Church bells of the area will ring across the Kleinriver valley to mark the much awaited 100 million strong global movement of 8:30pm Earth Hour when the lights suddenly switch off plunging the Village Green into Galaxies and Starlight. We welcome Hermanus Astronomy Society who will have star pointers and be available for children and people interested in learning about the night sky. All are welcome, it is a family friendly event and a lovely way to spend the hour togethor under the stars with friendly locals and visitors.

4) At 9:30 pm, the lights will come on again.

5) At 10pm, the Mini Jazz Fest will begin in all of the restaurants bordering the Green and along the High Street signified by Saxophonist Les Witz Sax playing "Oh what a wonderful world" across the Village Green. R60 tickets will be on sale on the evening and gains entrance into all the restaurants in Stanford bordering on the Village Green and High Street hosting wonderful Jazz and Blues artists. Each venue will be highlighted by Christmas lights and pumpkin lanterns. People are encouraged to visit with all the performers and venues to have a wonderful evening of sociability and a rich sample of musical treats.

This fabulous evening is going to conclude with a late night Free Jazz Jam Session. A one off treat for all music lovers.

MUSICAL LINE-UP!!

Some of the Jazz and blues artists confirmed;

Glen Robertson (Of Cape Town Jazz Fest & International Fame), Chad Zerf and friends, (UCT jazz school), Overberg's very own Piano Ben, Saxophonist, Les Witz and Johan Dowries. Leaning towards the Blues side will be Valient Swart and local Mississippi Disco Band. It is set to be a musical treat for all ages and all musical tastes. Please NOTE: Look out for guest appearances featuring as well….

Tickets are presently available via bookings through Stanford Restaurants, from Stanford Info later in the week, O.C.F. and at the event itself. Book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets are limited.

Beyond the Market and everything on offer, you could look to book into one of the local restaurants; the choice is wonderful and varied. From delicious slow cooked curries at Gypsies, to Summer platters at Mandeli's, Delectable Mezze Platters at Art Cafe, delicious fare at Paprika’s Perfect Pizzas, at this opening night for La Finstra, and much much more.

Thank you to Whale Talk Radio, Whale Talk Magazine, Stanford River Talk, Arabella Sheraton Lifestyle Magazine, Cliff Lodge, Hermanus Times, SA Events, Nosy Rosy, blogger Freddie Hatmann, Cape Whale Coast, Stanford Info, Birding, Anton Odendal , Stanford Conservation, Overstrand Conservation, Misty Cliffs, and everybody else for spreading the word for this great environmental cause. We have 19 of the first hits on the Internet, added to Cape Jazz Fest blogg amongst many others and are registered as a South African and Cape event, look out for printed media being put up this week and listen out for Whale Talk Radio repeat features,

Contact nadia@orcawireless.co.za for further Earth Hour and Mini Jazz Fest information as well as for further Market and stallholder info/requests.

Message for the Stanford Glendower Bird Fair web site

2010-03-04T09:48:00.001+02:00

The 2009 Stanford Bird Fair has come and gone.Once again we enjoyed the generous sponsorship from our main sponsors E Snell @ co., DMO and Stanford Conservation Trust It was an excellent event with well prepared presentations, interesting outings and much enjoyed and well supported cabaret evening.

Planning has now commenced for the 2010 Stanford Glendower Fair which will be held on the 1st and 2nd of October 2010 so please pencil this date in

Many thank for your continued support

Kind regards

Royd Frith.

Chairman

Birdlifre Walker Bay

Walker Bay Birders

2010-01-28T10:22:00.000+02:00

Walker Bay Birders, welcome to 2010

The sad news, for us, is that our always available guide, Brummer Olivier, has married and relocated to Stellenbosch. We shall miss his knowledge and birding skills but would like to congratulate him on his marriage and wish them both well for the future. We will still make use of his services where possible.

The good news is that we now have to do it ourselves !!! Without a professional birder leading us, we believe that it will give us the opportunity to identify birds ourselves and therefore improve our skills. We live in a truly wonderful birding area with an added bonus of amazing landscapes in which to spend our time finding these feathered friends!! So lets pull together and inspire each other to greater heights. Armed with bird books and fynbos books, we can make incredible discoveries in 2010.

Elsa Gebhard and Sarah James have offered to organise our Birding Walks for us this year.

We would welcome your input with any suggestions or ideas. Your contacts of people willing to come to Stanford or Gansbaai to talk about their birding experiences will be much appreciated.

Listed below are Walks we have put together for the first half of the year. We look forward to seeing you then. When we are able to find a speaker or an interesting film, we will inform you.

Thursdays seem to be the best day as weekends are usually occupied with visitors or children but please let us know if you do prefer weekends.

Thursday 11 February – Early morning boat trip on the Klein River. Ernie is willing to take 16 people on his River Rat at a reduced price of R70 per person. Meet in King Street at the river. Bring coffee and breakfast. Please book early.

Wednesday and Thursday 24 & 25 February – Flight for Birders by Anton Odendal. R350 per person. Detail has already been circulated but please use opportunity to brush up.

Tuesday 02 March – AGM in Stanford. Agenda to follow.

Thursday 11 March - Karweiderskraalpad

Thursday 08 April - Farm visit in Salmonsdam area.

Thursday 06 May - Farm visit on banks of Klein River

Thursday 03 June – Stanford Walk.

We are also planning outings to De Hoop, Caledon Veld Garden, find the Rock Jumper and others.

Time and meeting place will be advised before every outing. We do hope to hear from you and see you.

Elsa Gebhard Sarah James

028-3410499 028-3410189

072-2744005 082-3455285

elsag@global.co.za sarah.james@global.co.za

------------------------------------------------

Physical Address
35 Queen Victoria Street,
Stanford 7210,
Western Cape,
RSA

Postal Address:
P O Box 33,
Stanford 7210
Western Cape

(h) +27 90) 28 3410 189
(m) +27 (0) 82 345 5285
(e) sarah.james@global.co.za

Press release - Flight for Birders Course 24-25 February 2010

2010-01-07T10:55:00.000+02:00

INTRODUCTORY BIRD IDENTIFICATION AND CONSERVATION COURSE

24 AND 25 FEBRUARY 2010

The presentation of the “Flight for Birders” bird identification course by Anton Odendal in the Main Hall at the Stanford Arms Hotel has been scheduled for 24 and 25 February 2010. The costs will be R 350-00 per head. The costs include the course manual and a certificate endorsed by BirdLife South Africa – roughly 1,400 slides and drawings will be used. In the vast majority of the slides English and Afrikaans names are printed onto the slide. The course focuses on basic steps in the identification of birds, places heavy emphasis on where to find the rare and often endemic birds in southern Africa and illustrates how ordinary bird-watchers could become involved in the conservation of birds and their habitats.

Garden and water birds, birds of prey and difficult species such as “little brown jobs” and swallows will be illustrated systematically and in a practically understandable way. Practical ways in attracting birds and other wildlife to one's garden will also be illustrated. The course also focuses strongly on conservation threats affecting birds and gives handy clues on how ordinary bird-watchers could get involved. Case-studies on the plight of Lesser Flamingos at Kamfer's dam at Kimberley, the work of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust and BirdLife South Africa's Albatross Task Force are utilised in this regard. The importance of the conservation of Important Bird Areas (IBA's) is also highlighted.

Another feature of the course includes a discussion on how one prepares to do bird-watching in areas that one has not yet visited before and here case-studies of the birds of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and the Western Cape are used. The development of birding tourism in South Africa is also highlighted and BirdLife SA's approach to job creation and community upliftment is illustrated. A practical field outing led by experienced birders will be undertaken as part of the course. The course can therefore be attended by novices as well as more experienced bird-watchers as it attempts to motivate participants to become involved in the enjoyment of birds and in the conservation of birds and their habitats. One of the major aims of the course would be to develop a “site support group” according to the criteria set by BirdLife International and it is hoped that members of local communities will start becoming involved in this important cause. In this regard the course will focus the development of “site support groups” for important bird areas in and around the Stanford and Danger Point region.

The course is to be presented in the Main Hall of the Stanford Arms Hotel opposite the NG church in Stanford on 24 and 25 February 2010. The programme schedule and other information could be obtained from Elaine Odendal. Kindly register by e-mailing your intention to attend to Elaine at mwjasser@mweb.co.za or by calling or faxing her at 028-3161105 (w) or Mobile 0824558402.

Bantamsklip Demontration and Funding

2009-12-07T12:29:00.001+02:00

----- Original Message -----

From: Sue Leber

To: info@savebantamsklip.org

Sent: Sunday, December 06, 2009 3:38 PM

Subject: FW: Bantamsklip Demontration and Funding

SAVE BANTAMSKLIP ASSOCIATION

Private Bag X15 Suite 163, Hermanus, 7200

http://www.savebantamsklip.org/

Dear Members and Interested Parties

We would like to tell you all that the Save Bantamsklip Association has come of age – it is our sixth month anniversary! How we have grown – from two, to around four and a half thousand. Yes, a truly inspiring growth, showing the extent of public support for the removal of Bantamsklip, from the list of proposed nuclear power station sites.

A mass demonstration, planned for the 19^th of December 2009, has been approved by the Overstrand Municipality, to protest against the power station. This will begin in Swallow Park, Hermanus (next to the Spur) at 10am and proceed to the Whale Museum, to hand over a petition and memorandum to the Mayor. We want to encourage all our community leaders, our members and other supporters to participate in showing just how many people are against this outrageous plan to have a nuclear power station on the Cape Whale Route. (More news about this soon)

With all this on the cards, we find ourselves at a critical juncture in our development drive to be an effective voice to save Bantamsklip. We hereby make an urgent appeal and ask all our members for funding donations and/or pledges.

It has been said: “Conservation without money is conversation”

Please help us become an effective voice and prevent this disaster from happening.

We are presently registering as an NPO (Non-Profit Organization) which will entitle us a PBO (Public Benefit Organization ) number. Tax exemption certificates under section 18 of the Income Tax Act will then be issued, ensuring your donations will be tax deductable within this financial year 2009/10.

See below for account details.

Nedbank: Hermanus: Acc Name: Save Bantamsklip: Acc Number: 1345052359 Branch Code:134512

We thank you in anticipation, and thank those who have already helped.

Yours Sincerely

John Williams

Chairman

REPORTBACK ON 2009 STANFORD GLENDOWER BIRD FAIR

2009-11-23T09:44:00.001+02:00

The committee was delighted with the Fair this year which was once again generously sponsored by Edward Snell & Co, suppliers of Glendower Whisky. In addition we received a welcome donation from the Destination Marketing Organization in Hermanus.

The seven invited speakers gave presentations of a very high standard and their efforts were appreciated and enjoyed by all who attended. The five outings and two social events were very well attended. In particular the Glendower Whisky tasting was a resounding success with two cases of the product being consumed (the biggest turnout ever experienced for this event). The cabaret show and light meal were attended by a cross-section of Stanford's population. As in previous years the club ran a very successful birding photographic competition that attracted an excellent level of high-quality entries. Prize-giving coincided with the Glendower Whisky tasting.

Future planning includes a drive to greatly increase the involvement of all Stanfordians in the Fair and to cater for the needs of children during the weekend with appropriate aspects of birding and nature (Eagle Encounters, snakes, spiders and a well planned list of social and "fun" events.

As a matter of interest publicity was achieved through 193 correx boards adorning telegraph poles in Standford, Hermanus, Caledon, Bredasdorp, Napier, Gansbaai, De Kelders, Pearly Beach and Klein Baai. In addition 7000 fliers we inserted in all those towns with post offices. Extensive and skilful use was made of Internet marketing which enabled us to publicise details of the fair on a multitude of websites throughout SA and the world. This proved to be of great benefit to the club and is something that we shall pursue in future with commitment and gusto.

Royd Frith

Birdlife Walkerbay

Nuclear News

2009-11-19T10:34:00.001+02:00

Hardware: CERN Physicist Warns About Uranium Shortage on Tuesday November 17, @10:24AM Posted by timothy on Tuesday November 17, @10:24AM
from the switch-to-geraniums dept.

earth
power
hardware eldavojohn writes
"Uranium mines provide us with 40,000 tons of uranium each year. Sounds like that ought to be enough for anyone, but it comes up about 25,000 tons short of what we consume yearly in our nuclear power plants. The difference is made up by stockpiles, reprocessed fuel and re-enriched uranium — which should be completely used up by 2013. And the problem with just opening more uranium mines is that nobody really knows where to go for the next big uranium lode. Dr. Michael Dittmar has been warning us for some time about the coming shortage (PDF) and has recently uploaded a four-part comprehensive report on the future of nuclear energy and how socioeconomic change is exacerbating the effect this coming shortage will have on our power consumption. Although not quite on par with zombie apocalypse, Dr. Dittmar's final conclusions paint a dire picture, stating that options like large-scale commercial fission breeder reactors are not an option by 2013 and 'no matter how far into the future we may look, nuclear fusion as an energy source is even less probable than large-scale breeder reactors, for the accumulated knowledge on this subject is already sufficient to say that commercial fusion power will never become a reality.'"

Green Feet

2009-11-17T08:46:00.002+02:00

Find more photos like this on greenfeet

Save Bantamsklip Inaugural Meeting

2009-10-20T16:51:00.002+02:00

Save Bantamsklip Inaugural Meeting

To be held at
Stanford Municipal Boardroom

On the Thursday 5th November 2009
Commencing 3pm

Deliberation on Constitution and association’s legal structure
Including overview of current activity and status of EIA processes

Agenda

1. Steering Committee Chairman’s Report – John Williams
2. Overview of Constitution
3. Adopting Constitution
4. Election of office bearers
5. EIA process update – Rob Fryer

Meeting ends 5.30

Tea/Coffee will be served

PLEASE email John Williams info@savebantamsklip.org for a copy of the constitution

BirdLife South Africa Owl Awards

2009-10-19T10:17:00.007+02:00

Spotted Eagle Owl taken by Mr André van der Merwe at Oak Grove Farm, winter 2009.

BirdLife South Africa Owl Awards
Criteria and nomination process

Awards Committee • BirdLife South Africa Events Division Manager• BirdLife South Africa Business Division Manager• BirdLife South Africa Executive Director • Gauteng Forum representative• Western Cape Forum representative• KZN Forum representative • John Broodryk• Rosemary Girard

Owl Award categories

There are two categories for Owl Awards, namely:

1. BirdLife South Africa Owl Awards

2. BirdLife South Africa Eagle Owl Award Criteria for a BirdLife South Africa Owl Award

1. An Owl Award recognizes an outstanding contribution to BirdLife South Africa and bird conservation during the previous calendar year.

2. Owl Awards can be made to organizations or individuals.

3. Owl Awards recognize donations of finance, materials, time or expertise.

4. Commercial suppliers to BirdLife South Africa may be eligible for Owl Awards only under exceptional circumstances.

5. The Awards Committee will decide on who will receive an award and their decision is final.

6. A maximum of 11 awards will be presented each year.

7. Sponsors and partners will be recognized for their contributions to the organization for the previous financial year. They will only be eligible for the award once and continued support will receive verbal recognition during the ceremony as well as acknowledgement in Africa Birds & Birding and on BirdLife South Africa’s website.

8. The awards will be presented to the recipients at the annual Owl Awards ceremony, held on the first Friday of June in Johannesburg.

9. Each recipient will receive a statuette and framed certificate.

10. Winners’ names will be published in Africa Birds and Birding, BirdLife South Africa’s electronic newsletter and placed on BirdLife South Africa’s website.

Nomination process for a BirdLife South Africa Owl Award

1. Nominations can be made by BirdLife South Africa staff, council members, and members of the organization. Recommendations from partner organizations must be made via a BirdLife South Africa employee.

2. A nomination must comprise of the following:a. Name of the individual or organizationb. Which award they are being nominated forc. Contact details of the nominee.d. Contact details of the nominator.e. A citation motivating why they should receive an award (the citation must not exceed 400 words).

3. Citations must be accurate, researched and verified by the nominee.

4. Nominations must be submitted electronically to BirdLife South Africa’s Events Division Manager on events@birdlife.org.za. No faxed or posted nominations will be accepted.

5. Feedback about the status of nominations will be sent to the nominators after the Awards Committee has made its final decision.

Criteria for a BirdLife South Africa Eagle Owl Award

1. There will only be two Eagle Awards per year.

2. The Eagle Owl Award is divided into two categories:a. Outstanding voluntary contribution to BirdLife South Africa and bird conservation at a national level.b. Outstanding voluntary contribution to BirdLife South Africa at an organizational level for example donating time and expertise.

3. Nominations will only be accepted if the nominee was not employed by BirdLife South Africa during this period.

4. Only individuals (i.e. and not organizations or companies) will be considered for the award.

5. The Awards Committee will decide on who will receive the award and its decision is final.

6. The award will be presented to the recipient at the annual Owl Awards ceremony, held on the first Friday of June in Johannesburg.

7. The recipient will receive a statuette and framed certificate.

8. The winner will have an article profiling them and their achievements published in BirdLife South Africa’s section in Africa Birds and Birding, BirdLife South Africa’s electronic newsletter and placed on BirdLife South Africa website.

Nomination process for a BirdLife South Africa Eagle Owl Award

2. A nomination must comprise of the following:

a. Name of the individual or organizationb.

b. Which award they are being nominated forc.

c. Contact details of the nominee.d. Contact details of the nominator.

e. A citation motivating why they should receive an award, the citation must not exceed 400 words.

3. Citations must be accurate, researched and verified by the nominee.

4. Nominations must be submitted electronically to BirdLife South Africa’s Events Division Manager on events@birdlife.org.za. No faxed or posted nominations will be accepted.

5. Feedback about the status of the nomination will be sent to the nominator after the Awards committee has made their final decision.

BirdLife South Africa Owl Awards Nomination form

Date:___________________________Nominated for (please tick appropriate box)

Owl Award  Eagle Owl Award Name of Individual or Organization nominated:

_______________________________________

Contact details of nominee:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Name & contact details of nominator:

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Motivation for award (please don’t exceed 400 words):

_______________________________

Blue Cranes by Philippa Castle at Oak Grove Farm 2008

2009 Stanford Glendower Bird Fair - Endangered Wildlife Trust - Crane Conservation

2009-10-15T10:27:00.001+02:00

----- Original Message -----

From: bronwyn botha

To: 'Royd Frith'

Sent: Tuesday, October 13, 2009 10:48 AM

Subject: RE: 2009 Stanford Glendower Bird Fair

HI Royd and the committee

It was an absolute pleasure once again. The group was great and showed unwavering enthusiasm all trip long. We managed to see about 182 cranes and some of them really close. It was a great day and I feel there are a number of people that have walked away with a new found appreciation for our National Bird.

Kind regards

Bronwyn

********************************************
Western Cape Crane Conservation Project
Endangered Wildlife Trust – Crane Conservation
ICF/EWT Partnership for African Cranes
The Western Cape Crane Conservation Project is run in partnership with the Overberg Crane Group

16, 17th Avenue
Voelklip
Hermanus
7200
+27823200911
bronwynb@ewt.org.za
Skype: bronwyn.botha
URL:http://www.ewt.org.za
Blog: http://cranemania.wildlifedirect.org

From: Royd Frith [mailto:roydf@mweb.co.za]
Sent: 07 October 2009 12:59 PM
To: bronwynb@ewt.org.za
Subject: 2009 Stanford Glendower Bird Fair

Dear Bronwyn

A big thank you once again for leading the outing to see the blue cranes

and their habitat. They are such very special birds and I know that all

who took part found the outing to be very interesting.

We were very pleased with the range of activities and the level of support
received for them and really feel that the fair was a success again this
year.

With thanks again and kind regards from all the committee,

Royd Frith

Chairman

BirdLife Walker Bay

Winners of Stanford Birding Photographic Competition 2009

2009-10-12T13:41:00.023+02:00

A great big thank you to all of you who sent in your stunning birding photographic entries into this year's Stanford Birding Photographic Competition.

The standard of entries was very high and it was with great pleasure we could announce the winners at the Stanford Glendower Bird Fair whiskey tasting function.

As the Stanford Birding Photographic Competition creator, head judge, and co-owner with Bruce Castle, of http://www.stanfordbirding.co.za/ it is important that I ensure all entrants are aware that bird photos submitted for the competition are subject to the following rules, terms and conditions:

You keep copyright on all your images.

By submitting an image to the Stanford Birding Photographic Competition, you only grant rights for the image to be displayed on this blog and the associated Google, Picasa and marketing websites affiliated with the main website http://www.stanfordbirding.co.za/ in perpetuity, and to be reproduced directly for promotion of the Stanford Birding Photographic Competition and the associated Stanford Glendower Bird Fair and/or Stanford/Overberg Nature Festival, as it may in future be named. Usage outside of these contexts will require your permission, and rights to your images will not be sold without your permission. The Stanford Birding Photographic Competition is a volunteer-run awareness initiative, not a profit-making concern.

The judging of the competition, with both professionals and amateur entrants, provided much debate. I wish to thank both Dave de Beer and Anton Odendaal for their invaluable contributions to the judging process.

Fabulous prizes were on offer and I wish to once again thank the following kind contributos:

1st prize: 1/2 hour flight for 2 with African Wings
2nd prize: pet friendly 3 star self catering accommodation for 5 guests at Oak Grove Farm
3rd prize: ultimate whale watching for 2 with Dyer Island Cruises
4th prize: guided walk through Platbos Africa's southernmost indigenous forest
5th prize: lunch for 2 at Stanford Art Cafe
6th prize: boat trip on Klein River with River Rat Boat Cruises
7th prize: 2 hour horse ride with African Horse Company

8th prize: 1 year subscription to Africa Birds and Birding
9th prize: breakfast for 2 at Madrés Country Kitchen & Grocer

Prizes awarded are as follows:

1st prize:

Basie van Zyl with his captivating Little Egret feeding

2nd Prize:

Mitchell Krog with his Juvenile Bearded Vulture3rd Prize:

John Davey with his Arrow Marked Babbler

4th Prize:

Mike Graham with his Ground Scraper Thrush

5th prize:

Don MacIver with his Sociable Weaver

6th prize:

Steven Swart with his Weaver Dive

7th prize:

Brummer Olivier with his photo entitled "Flower Marching" of a femaile Cape Sugarbird
8th prize:

Isobel de Gruchy with her Malachite Sunbird on Pink Flower 9th prize:
Valda Finch with her Blue Cranes with Guineafowl and John Finch with his Red Knobbed Coot

Announcement of 350-24-24 Bird Photo Challenge

2009-10-12T12:00:00.001+02:00

From: Mark Anderson
To: sabirdclubforum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thursday, October 08, 2009 8:10 AM
Subject: [sabirdclubforum]
Urgent: Announcement of 350-24-24 Bird Photo Challenge

Dear colleagues

I’m extremely pleased to extend an open invitation to all bird photographers in South Africa to join me in the just-launched 350-24-24 Bird Photo Challenge. On 24 October volunteer bird photographers all over South Africa are going to photograph 350 species of birds within 24 hours and post the images on a website to promote birding, bird conservation and climate change awareness around the world.

The Challenge is a partnership between BirdLife South Africa, Birding Africa and PlusPlusMinus webdesign and will an innovative contribution by the South African birding community to the world’s biggest simultaneous environmental awareness action, 350.org’s International Day of Climate Action.On 24 October thousands of people in more than 140 countries will be doing a range of creative actions to raise awareness of one of the most critical issues of our time, climate change.

The President of the Maldives will be holding a cabinet meeting underwater to highlight the danger of rising sea levels, climbers at the Mount Everest Base Camp will be raising banners about glacial melting, and crowds of creative people will be doing all sorts of things on Table Mountain.

The Day of Action has the support of prominent scientists like NASA’s James Hansen, the world’s most famous climate researcher, and our own Nobel Prize-winning Archbishop Desmond Tutu.Since we’re about birds and conservation, and 350.org’s Day of Action is a magnificent opportunity to ride a wave of global environmental concern, we’ve decided to use the opportunity to raise the profile of South Africa’s amazing avifauna.

The Challenge will be as inclusive as possible – we aim to include photos by all contributors in the online mosaic of bird pictures that will result from the Challenge. Photographers will be given full credit for their images, and will be encouraged to promote the conservation of threatened species and highlight great birding destinations in the picture captions. We’re encouraging members of other conservation organisations to join in, and are inviting other countries to set up their own 350-24-24 Bird Photo Challenges.October 24 is just around the corner, so don’t delay in visiting the 350-24-24 Challenge website at http://350.birdingafrica.com to find out more and register your participation!

I’d like to thank Birding Africa, PlusPlusMinus and BirdLife South Africa’s Nikki McCartney for helping get this together at such short notice, and Adam Welz at 350.org, who’s idea this was in the first place. By working together we, and the birds, win.I’m going to be out with my camera on 24 October. Are you?

Regards,
Mark

P.S. Please circulate this open invitation to your networks as widely as possible.

STANFORD BIRD CLUB NEWS

2009-09-23T10:00:00.000+02:00

STANFORD BIRD CLUB

The Stanford Bird Club, officially known as Birdlife Walkerbay, is about to host the 6th Stanford Glendower Bird Fair from 1st to 4th Oct 2009. Recognizing the potential that avian tourism (the world's most rapidly growing form of tourism) offers Stanford, we have joined with Birdlife Overberg in an endeavour to broaden the appeal of Bird Fair. We are optimistic that we shall achieve our objectives and to get a comprehensive view of our program go to www.stanfordbirding.co.za and hit the program button for full details of our Fair.

The club is fortunate to have an enthusiastic and cohesive committee who collectively put a great deal of effort in organizing the Bird Fair. In an endeavour to grow club membership the committee is planning to increase the club's activities through a range of talks, films and field outings. One of our planned initiatives is the presentation of the “Flight for Birders” bird identification course by Anton Odendal at a cost and venue to be advised in the Stanford area on or about 25th and 26th February 2010. The course includes a manual and a certificate endorsed by BirdLife South Africa – roughly 1,400 slides and drawings will be used. In the vast majority of cases, English and Afrikaans names are printed onto the slide. The course focuses on basic steps in the identification of birds, places heavy emphasis on where to find the rare and often endemic birds in southern Africa and illustrates how ordinary bird-watchers could become involved in the conservation of birds and their habitats. The development of an infrastructure for birding tourists in the Danger Point peninsula will also be highlighted. Note that we will not offer teas and lunches to keep costs down and participants should therefore bring along their own picnic baskets and refreshments.

The club is conscious of the need for funding of birding activities and makes donations whenever possible to needy initiatives such as the plight of the African Penguin, the Overberg Bird Route and various other areas. The current committee of six needs to expand to enable us to reach our objectives. Currently our members are :

Elsa Gebhard - Treasurer and membership secretary
Lindsay Frith - Secretary
Philippa Castle - marketing and website maintenance
David Dowie Dunn
Peter Hood
Royd Frith - Chairman
Dave McCarthy (absent in the UK for a year)

Please support our Fair this year and let us welcome as many new members as possible. The bird clubs will have a manned information centre at the back of the Stanford Art Galleries for the duration of the fair. All talks will take place in the Municipal Boardroom and are free. For more information please call Royd Frith on 083 676 2282.

Invitation; Stanford Glendower Bird Fair

2009-09-10T10:56:00.001+02:00

From: Edwena Smith

Sent: 09 September 2009 09:42 AM
To: info@stanfordbirding.co.za
Subject: Invitation; Stanford Glendower Bird Fair

Dear Ms. Castle

By direction of Premier Helen Zille, I hereby acknowledge receipt your correspondence, the content of which has been noted.

Thank you for your kind invitation dated 28 August 2009 addressed to the Premier, Helen Zille to attend the above mentioned event on 01 October 2009. I regret to inform you that the Premier will not be able to attend, due to prior commitments.

The Premier would have loved to attend and wishes you every success with the event.

Kind Regards

Edwena Smith

Office Of The Premier

"All views or opinions expressed in this electronic message and its attachments are the view of the sender and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Provincial Government of the Western Cape ("the PGWC').
No employee of the PGWC is entitled to conclude a binding contract on behalf of the PGWC unless he/she is an accounting officer of the PGWC, or his or her authorised representative.

The information contained in this message and its attachments may be confidential or privileged and is for the use of the named recipient only, except where the sender specifically states otherwise.

If you are not the intended recipient you may not copy or deliver this message to anyone."

Urgent Message BirdLife Overberg What's Happening.doc

2009-09-09T12:23:00.002+02:00

Please visit our website: http://www.westerncapebirding.co.za/

$ Monday 14 September:

Anton's talk on South Africa's summer migrants has been postponed due to Vernon Head and Mell Trip having volunteered to do their talk on the birds of Tanzania. This illustrated talk on a recent birding expedition to Tanzania has taken bird clubs by storm and is highly recommended by birders who have seen it.

The ladies of the committee also decided to cater for this special event and will be preparing a nice meal. You are invited to come and listen to a great talk and enjoy supper with us at R 40-00 per head. Wine sponsored by the committee.

FOR CATERING PURPOSES PLEASE RSVP BEFORE FRIDAY 11 SEPTEMBER ( ELAINE 0824558402 OR EMAIL mwjasser@mweb.co.za

Venue: Fernkloof at 18h30 for 19h00

24 September: Heritage day

There is a great heritage day celebration at the Springfield guest farm in the Agulhas National Park. Read all about it in the “events” section of Overberg Birding Route under http://www.westerncapebirding.co.za/. Details of our participation will be released later.

NEW MEMBERS / NUWE LEDE

We extend a warm welcome to the following new members / Ons heet die volgende nuwe lede hartelik welkom:

Anza Oosthuizen

Frans Boot

Alet Louw

Johan Rothmann

Angels on Horseback

2009-08-25T10:31:00.003+02:00

ANGELS ON HORSEBACK

AN UNMISSABLE NIGHT OF CABARET, WIT AND WISDOM

THIS CABARET SHOW FEATURES COUNTRY MUSIC BUT WITH A UNIQUELY SOUTH AFRICAN SPIN

· SEXY AND FUNNY. PROPER, GENUINE ENTERTAINMENT.

· THIS ORIGINAL SHOW IS A BLUES CHASER. IT'S FEEL GOOD.

· IT'S GOOD MOOD. AND IT'S WELL DONE.

· IT'S SAUCY, ENGAGING, STRANGELY MOVING AND FUNNY.

· PACKED WITH LAUGHTER, INSIGHT AND HILARIOUS MUSICAL NUMBERS.

ABOVE ARE JUST SOME REVIEWS OF THIS NOT TO BE MISSED EVENT

FRIDAY 2 OCTOBER AT 7.30 pm

CONFERENCE CENTRE @ STANFORD ARMS (formerly Hennie's Pub)

R135pp INCL. LIGHT SUPPER & GLENDOWER WHISKY TASTING

BOOK at STANFORD INFO 028-3410340 stanfordinfo@overberg.co.za

STANFORD HAS NOT YET SEEN A SHOW LIKE THIS…

• EARLY BOOKING ESSENTIAL • ONLY 100 TICKETS AVAILABLE

HOSTED BY BIRDLIFE WALKERBAY FOR STANFORD GLENDOWER BIRD FAIR

www.stanfordbirding.co.za

2009 Stanford Glendower Bird Fair

2009-08-25T10:29:00.001+02:00

Hello Members,

Please be informed that the website for this year's Bird Fair is now up and
running at www.stanfordbirding.co.za! The entire programme is on the site
if you scroll down and click on "Here" just above the list of speakers and,
if you do this, you are also able to open the programme as a PDF file.

Booking is open at Stanfordinfo and you should please be aware that the
Spookhuis picnic on Sunday, 4th October, and the mini pelagic boat trip on
Saturday, 3rd are likely to be booked up quite quickly. There is limited
availability for both of these events and the boat trip particularly, @ R100
per head, is an absolute bargain at a "never-to-be-repeated" price.

The Angels on Horseback cabaret at Stanford Arms on the Friday evening is
also a treat and not to be missed - posters are going up all around town for
this, so look out!

Kind regards

Royd Frith

Kamfer Island talk

2009-08-25T10:28:00.001+02:00

Kamfer Island talk

Good morning everyone

Just a final reminder that there is going to be a fascinating talk tomorrow
evening in Hermanus by Mark Anderson, CEO of BirdLife South Africa on Kamfer
Island. If you go to www.westerncapebirding.co.za and click on the events
button, you can read all about it. There are still seats available and they
are hoping to attract a big crowd to support the project.

Hope to see you there,
Regards

Royd Frith

Stanford Birding Photographic Competion 2008 - lyrics and song by Johannes Basson

2009-08-03T15:36:00.001+02:00

SAVE BANTAMSKLIP CAMPAIGN

2009-07-23T15:21:00.002+02:00

Dear Interested & Affected Parties,

The newly established Save Bantamsklip campaign is a confederation of individuals, civic organizations and communities who are opposed to Eskom’s proposed nuclear power station on the farm "Groot Hagelkraal” at Bantamsklip in the South-Western Cape’s Overberg Region. Below, please find our Mission Statement which outlines the ideas and principles we stand for.

Mission Statement

SAVE BANTAMSKLIP

Save Bantamsklip is a confederation of individuals, civic organizations and communities united in the belief that the proposed siting of a nuclear power plant on the farm “Groot Hagelkraal” at Bantamsklip on the South-Western Cape’s Overberg coast is inappropriate.

We further believe that the Agulhas National Park and the protection of lowland and coastal fynbos, together with the Dyer Island Marine Sanctuary at the heart of the Cape Whale Route, are crucial provincial and national heritage resources and are the mainstay of the regional economy. We will therefore support only those economic activities that provide enhanced protection and sustainable utilization of these natural resources.

In the light of the above, Save Bantamsklip proposes that –

1. The site should be removed from the list of nuclear sites proposed by Eskom and the South African Government;

2. The farm, and all it adjoining sub-divisions presently owned by Eskom, should be donated and transferred to the Agulhas National Park;

3. All regional, provincial and national efforts and investment should be expended on renewable energy and technology;

4. Local efforts should be focused on the establishment of the Agulhas Biosphere Reserve.

The interim Steering Committee for Save Bantamsklip plans to formally register this organisation during August 2009, and we would like to submit a comprehensive database of supporters of the campaign when this registration takes place. In the event that you are part of an organisation (community based, ratepayers, conservation groups, clubs etc), we would appreciate it if we could get some feedback from you as to whether you and your membership is in support of our aims, and how many members your organisation consists of. We would appreciate it if you could reply before the 10th August 2009.

If you have any ideas, suggestions or services that you or your organisation could contribute to furthering the success of this campaign, please feel free to contact either of the interim Steering Committee members listed below. We have already had the benefit of the generous services of Gansbaai Graphics (Toni), Maxitec, the Hermanus-based company, who will be developing and hosting our website and Mr Allan Berry (Stanford) who will be attending to the legal registration of the Save Bantamsklip organisation, - we are truly indebted to these people and others who have offered time and effort to help get this campaign off the ground.

If you have not yet registered as an 'Interested & Affected Party' regarding the proposed Eskom nuclear development at Bantamsklip, please do so by providing Acer Africa - Ms Bongi Shinga - bongi.shinga@acerafrica.co.za (nuclear power station) and NMA - Ms Theo Hansford - TheoH@nma.org.za ( transmission line routes) with your name and contact details. Background information regarding the EIA's for the nuclear power station and the transmission lines can be obtained from www.eskom.co.za/eia or the Arcus Gibb website www.projects.gibb.co.za, project named Nuclear 1.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards

Amanda Jephson - Vice Chairperson and Treasurer - topiary@whalemail.co.za
Katrin Pobantz - Secretary - terraheim@ruens.co.za

www.savebantamsklip.org

DRAFT STANFORD GLENDOWER BIRD FAIR

2009-07-16T16:33:00.004+02:00

As our sixth annual bird fair approaches, we are delighted to tell you that agreement has been reached whereby BirdLife Overberg will assist us in running this event. This will have a beneficial effect on the quality of the fair and enable us to reach a much wider cross-section of the Overberg birding population. We feel that the publication of the Overberg Bird Guide will be of great benefit to birders throughout the country and beyond.

The programme has been designed to increase the number of field outings as well, containing some interesting and enlightening presentations. For further information please contact Royd Frith, Chairman, BirdLife Walker Bay on roydf@mweb.co.za or 083 676 2282

Thursday, 1st October
15h00: African Tea Party, talk by Naas Terblanche on Overberg Amphibians and bird walk on Oak Grove Farm, followed by live entertainment featuring Johannes Basson – R30 per person

Friday, 2nd October
07h00 to 10h00: Guided outing (25 people maximum) led by Brummer Olivier to Danger Point and Kleinbaai followed by brunch & whale watching at Coffee on the Rocks in de Kelders; R 75-00 pp
07h00: Cape Rock-jumper outing to Rooiels led by Dave de Beer
07h30 onwards: Birding river trips (boat and/or canoe) from Stanford River Lodge. For price and bookings, contact Janice on 084 583 5389
12h00: Talk on bird photography by Dave de Beer, Chairman of BirdLife Overberg
14h00: Talk by Meidad Goren of BirdLife South Africa's Albatross Task Force, on the success achieved in reducing albatross by-catch by longline fishing
15h00 Talk by Odette Curtiss on Rhenosterveld Conservation and its effect on birdlife. This will include a focus on Black Harriers
17h00: Launch of Overberg Bird Guide by Anton Odendal

Saturday, 3rd October
07h00 to 11h00: Guided outing to find Blue Cranes with Bronwyn Botha, of the Endangered Wildlife Trust's Crane Working Group
07h00 to 10h00: Boat trip from Gansbaai to see ocean birds – price to be finalised this week
07h30 onwards: Birding river cruises from Stanford River Lodge
11h00: Tractor ride through “Historical Stanford on Foot” – bookings through Stanford Info
15h00: Talk by Doug Newman on bird vocalisation
16h00: Talk by Mike Graham of BirdLife Overberg on birding in the Okavango Delta
19h00: Bird Fair dinner with free Glendower whisky tasting –- price and venue to be confirmed - check website for details at http://www.stanfordbirding.co.za/ (website currently being updated)

Sunday, 4th October
07h30: Walk on Flower Valley Farm with Brummer Olivier. R75 pp (booking essential)12h00: Gourmet picnic lunch and guided tour at the Spookhuis at Mosaic Farm. R100 pp (booking essential)

FLIGHT FOR BIRDERS, FERNKLOOF, HERMANUS 12 & 13 AUGUST 2009

2009-07-14T12:31:00.000+02:00

FLIGHT FOR BIRDERS

A bird identification course for novice and intermediate birders at Fernkloof, Hermanus

12 and 13 August 2009

The presentation of the “Flight for Birders” bird identification course by Anton Odendal in at the environmental education centre in Fernkloof, Hermanus has been scheduled for 12 and 13 August 2009. The costs will be R 300-00 per head. The costs include the course manual and a certificate endorsed by BirdLife South Africa – roughly 1,400 slides and drawings will be used. In the vast majority of the slides English and Afrikaans names are printed onto the slide. The course focuses on basic steps in the identification of birds, places heavy emphasis on where to find the rare and often endemic birds in southern Africa and illustrates how ordinary bird-watchers could become involved in the conservation of birds and their habitats. The development of an infrastructure for birding tourists in the Overstrand will also be highlighted.

PROGRAMME SCHEDULE

WHAT PARTICIPANTS SHOULD BRING ALONG:

· One of the bird guide books (Newman's, SASOL or Robert's), preferably one that you are prepared to make notes in to illustrate key identification features of species

· Notebook and pen

· Binoculars

· Comfortable walking shoes

· Hat and sunscreen

· Picnic basket and refreshments

DAY 1: Wednesday 12 August

(Kindly note that short breaks will be taken on the hour).

07h30 to 08h00: Registration

08h00 to 09h00: The basic approach in Flight for Birders and what to look for when trying to identify a bird

09h00 to 10h00: The identification of garden birds

10h00 to 10h15: Tea

10h15 to 11h00: The identification of garden birds and how to plan your garden for birds and other wildlife – a focus on BLSA's theme of promoting garden birds during 2009

11h00 to 11h15: An overview of some threatened birds in Southern Africa: what is BLSA trying to do about the problem through conservation programs and how can ordinary birders help? The work of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust

11h15 to 11h45: The special and endemic birds of the Western Cape province, used as a case-study on how to prepare when visiting a new area

11h45 to 12h15: An overview of some threatened birds in Southern Africa: what is BLSA trying to do about the problem through conservation programs and how can ordinary birders help? BLSA's Albatross Task Force and Mark Anderson's work on Lesser Flamingos at Kamfers dam near Kimberley

12h15 to 13h00: Lunch

13h00 to 15h00: An introduction to the identification of some difficult groups – Little Brown Jobs and Swallows

15h00 to 15h30: A special section on some of the cuckoos of southern Africa and their host species

15h30 to 16h00: Typical birds found along the highways and byways

16h00 onwards: Practical outing in small groups applying the principles taught. Those who want to may leave from 16h00.

DAY 2: Thursday 13 August

08h00 to 09h45: The identification of raptors and birds of prey, with a special focus on the Owls of southern Africa

09h45 to 10h15: How to prepare when visiting a new birding area: Birding in the Kruger National Park as a brief case-study.

10h15 to 10h30: Tea

10h30 to 12h30: The identification of the fairly common water birds of southern Africa

12h30 to 13h00: Short lunch

13h00 to 14h30: Concluding integration: a focus on the conservation of birds and birding tourism - the critical role that the Overstrand municipal area could play in this regard

14h30 to 15h00: The 101 species in southern Africa that every avid birder needs to be able to identify – how to distinguish between the various families of birds. (An open-ended participatory discussion on photographs of the most common birds representing different families of birds).

15h00: Fun bird identification quiz

15h00+: Presentation of certificates endorsed by BLSA

DETAILS IN BRIEF:

DATES: 12 and 13 August 2009

VENUE: Environmental Education Centre in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, Hermanus

COSTS: R 300-00, that includes the course manual and certificate endorsed by BirdLife South Africa.

TO REGISTER AND SECURE YOUR PLACE:

Contact Elaine at mwjasser@mweb.co.za or 0824558402 or Tel and Fax: 028-3161105 of your intention to attend. Your participation will be assured once you have deposited your payment for R 300-00 into the following account:

Account name: Anton Odendal

Bank: ABSA, Hermanus (Cheque account)

Account number: 4042585490

NB: Kindly fax or e-mail the deposit slip to the above number or address to secure participation.

PRIZE - Stanford Birding Photographic Competition 2009

2009-07-02T12:07:00.004+02:00

STANFORD BIRDING PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION:

PRIZE FROM PLATBOS

~ Guided walk for family of 4 at Platbos, Africa’s Southernmost Forest.

~ Our Reforestation and Forest Conservation Project: Trees for Tomorrow will sponsor the planting of a tree on the forest edge to help reduce the winner’s carbon / pollution miles created in visiting Stanford and Platbos Forest.

Value of gift (excl. VAT): Guided walk for 2 adults and 2 children: R440.00
1x Tree for Tomorrow: R50.00

Total Value: R490.00

PRIOR BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT.

CONTACT DETAILS:

082 4110448 / info@platbos.co.za / www.platbos.co.za

Draft Programme Stanford Glendower Bird Fair 1-4 October 2009

2009-07-02T12:02:00.001+02:00

DRAFT STANFORD GLENDOWER BIRD FAIR

The programme has been designed to increase the number of field outings as well containing some interesting and enlightening presentations. For further information please contact Royd Frith, Chairman, BirdLife Walker Bay on roydf@mweb.co.za or 083 676 2282

Thursday, 1^st October

15h00: African Tea Party, talk by Naas Terblanche on Overberg Amphibians and bird walk on Oak Grove Farm, followed by live entertainment featuring Johannes Basson – R30 per person

Friday, 2^nd October

07h00 to 10h00: Guided outing (25 people maximum) led by Brummer Olivier to Danger Point and Kleinbaai followed by brunch & whale watching at Coffee on the Rocks in de Kelders; R 75-00 pp

07h00: Cape Rock-jumper outing to Rooiels led by Dave de Beer

07h30 onwards: Birding river trips (boat and/or canoe) from Stanford River Lodge. For price and bookings, contact Janice on 084 583 5389

12h00: Talk on bird photography by Dave de Beer, Chairman of BirdLife Overberg

14h00: Talk by Meidad Goren of BirdLife South Africa's Albatross Task Force, on the success achieved in reducing albatross by-catch by longline fishing

15h00 Talk by Odette Curtiss on Rhenosterveld Conservation and its effect on birdlife. This will include a focus on Black Harriers

17h00: Launch of Overberg Bird Guide by Anton Odendal

Saturday, 3^rd October

07h00 to 11h00: Guided outing to find Blue Cranes with Bronwyn Botha, of the Endangered Wildlife Trust's Crane Working Group

07h00 to 10h00: Boat trip from Gansbaai to see ocean birds – price to be finalised this week

07h30 onwards: Birding river cruises from Stanford River Lodge

11h00: Tractor ride through “Historical Stanford on Foot” – bookings through Stanford Info

15h00: Talk by Doug Newman on bird vocalisation

16h00: Talk by Mike Graham of BirdLife Overberg on birding in the Okavango Delta

19h00: Bird Fair dinner with free Glendower whisky tasting –- price and venue to be confirmed - check website for details at www.stanfordbirding.co.za (website currently being updated)

Sunday, 4^th October

07h30: Walk on Flower Valley Farm with Brummer Olivier. R75 pp (booking essential)

12h00: Gourmet picnic lunch and guided tour at the Spookhuis at Mosaic Farm. R100 pp (booking essential)

STANFORD BIRDING PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

Birds and Birders in their South African habitats

You may enter as many photographs as you like. Send each entry separately.

Closing date for entries: 17h00 on Thursday, 30^th September.

This photographic competition is open to all and consideration will be given to young, aspiring bird photographers. To enter simply email each individual entry to info@stanfordbirding.co.za

All outings and activities to be booked. Check www.stanfordinfo.co.za for detail

Fijn Bush Telegraph 4th edition - 26 June 2009

2009-06-29T15:51:00.005+02:00

Click on the individual images to view the larger version.

Place your advert from as little as R10 per edition by emailing Philippa at Fijn Bush Telegraph ads@stanfordlocals.co.za
The Fijn Bush Telegraph is a free bi-monthly publication printed by Stanford Technology Centre and currently distributed in Stanford and Gansbaai.

Kingfishers in Stanford

2009-05-30T15:30:00.001+02:00

Fijn Bush Telegraph Advertising Rates

2009-05-30T15:17:00.002+02:00

send adverts to ads@stanfordlocals.co.za
Attention Philipps Castle

FLIGHT FOR BIRDERS A bird identification course

2009-05-04T14:38:00.002+02:00

FLIGHT FOR BIRDERS
A bird identification course for novice and intermediate birders

The presentation of the “Flight for Birders” bird identification course by Anton Odendal at the new environmental education facility at the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens has been scheduled for 14 and 15 May 2009. The costs will be R 300-00 per head. The costs include the course manual and a certificate endorsed by BirdLife South Africa – roughly 1,400 slides and drawings will be used. In the vast majority of the slides English and Afrikaans names are printed onto the slide. The course focuses on basic steps in the identification of birds, places heavy emphasis on where to find the rare and often endemic birds in southern Africa and illustrates how ordinary bird-watchers could become involved in the conservation of birds and their habitats. Note that we will not offer teas and lunches to keep costs down and participants should therefore bring along their own picnic baskets and refreshments.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS SHOULD BRING ALONG:
· One of the birdguide books (Newman's, SASOL or Robert's), preferably one that you are prepared to make notes in to illustrate key identification features of species
· Notebook and pen
· Binoculars
· Comfortable walking shoes
· Hat and sunscreen
· Picnic basket and refreshments
PROGRAMME SCHEDULE
DAY 1: Thursday 14 May
(Kindly note that short breaks will be taken on the hour).
07h30 to 08h00: Registration

08h00 to 08h30: Introductory orientation and why we are part of BirdLife South Africa: a focus on birding tourism and the critical role that the region between Rooiels and Kleinmond could play in this regard

08h30 to 09h00: What to look for when trying to identify a bird

09h00 to 10h00: The identification of garden birds

10h00 to 10h15: Tea

10h15 to 11h00: The identification of garden birds and how to plan your garden for birds and other wildlife – a focus on BLSA's theme of promoting garden birds during 2009

11h00 to 11h45: The special and endemic birds of the Western Cape province, used as a case-study on how to prepare when visiting a new area

11h45 to 12h30: An overview of some threatened birds in Southern Africa: what is BLSA trying to do about the problem through conservation programs and how can ordinary birders help? We focus on the work of Dyer Island Conservation Trust and BLSA's Albatross Task Force

12h30 to 13h00: Lunch

13h00 to 15h00: An introduction to the identification of some difficult groups – Little Brown Jobs, Swallows, Terns and so on

15h00 to 16h00: Typical birds found along the highways and byways, with a special section on some of the cuckoos of southern Africa, their hosts species and interesting stories on brood parasitism

16h00 onwards: Practical outing in small groups applying the principles taught. Those who want to may leave from 16h00.

DAY 2: Friday 15 May
08h00 to 10h00: The identification of raptors and birds of prey, with a special focus on the Owls of southern Africa

10h00 to 10h45: How to prepare when visiting a new birding area: Birding in the Kruger National Park as a brief case-study.

10h45 to 11h00: Tea

11h00 to 12h30: The identification of the fairly common water birds of southern Africa

12h30 to 13h00: Short lunch

13h00 to 13h30: The identification of the fairly common water birds of southern Africa. (Continued)

13h30 to 14h00: The pink gems of Kimberley: the work of Mark Anderson, the Executive Director of BirdLife South Africa on the conservation of Lesser Flamingos at the Kamfers dam

14h00 to 15h00: The 101 species in southern Africa that every avid birder needs to be able to identify – how to distinguish between the various families of birds. (An open-ended participatory discussion on photographs of the most common birds representing different families of birds).

15h00: Fun bird identification quizz (Optional)

15h00+: Presentation of certificates endorsed by BLSA

DETAILS IN BRIEF:
DATES: 14 and 15 May 2009
VENUE: The Environmental Education Center at the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens, Betty' Bay
COSTS: R300-00, that includes the course manual and certificate endorsed by BirdLife South Africa.
TO REGISTER AND SECURE YOUR PLACE:
Contact Elaine at:
Tel and fax: 028 – 3161105
Mobile: 0824558402
E-mail: mwjasser@mweb.co.za
REGISTRATION: Kindly inform Elaine of your intention to participate and deposit payment into the following account:

Account name: A.W. Odendal
Bank: ABSA, Hermanus (Cheque account)
Account number: 4042585490

NB: Kindly fax or e-mail the deposit slip to the above number or address to secure participation.