News

The thirteenth Aan de Weber AGM took place on the 26^{th of} June 2025 at Stellenbosch Golf Club. Twenty-six homeowners and 23 proxies showed their support for the future of our beautiful and secure family estate.

Trustee Chairman Gavin Osborne led the proceedings, and we are pleased to share a few key points from the evening’s discussions in this newsletter. Trafalgar has loaded the draft minutes in the Trafalgar Web App. If you have not registered yet, please get in touch with Tanya at Trafalgar.

 

Your Board of Trustees 2025

Thank you to Gerhard Neethling, Erick Walters, and Stephne de Villiers, the outgoing trustees of 2024, for your time, dedication, and hard work in making Aan de Weber one of the premier residential estates in Stellenbosch. The trustees have done a sterling job, all while juggling their own family and work responsibilities.

The homeowners who were elected to the Board of Trustees for 2025 are:

Gavin Osborne – Chairman

Francois Theron – Governance & Finance

Anthony Haralambous – Security

Johan Human – Aesthetics & Gardens

Revere Thomson – Maintenance

Craig Thomson – Communications & PR

 

 Security Reminder: Working Together to Keep Aan de Weber Estate Safe

As members of the Aan de Weber Estate community, we all share the responsibility of ensuring that our security estate remains a safe haven for all. The security of our estate depends on the cooperation and commitment of every one of us.

To maintain our status as a secure environment, we kindly ask that all residents follow the necessary protocols designed to protect our community. These include:

Access Control: Always ensure that visitors, contractors, or delivery personnel are correctly registered and sent a code via the AtTheGate app. If you are unsure about how to use the app, please speak with Jaen. We also request that you use the Gallagher app to enter and exit the estate at all times. We are requesting that security be more vigilant regarding access control and are asking them to encourage residents to use the Gallagher app to enter and exit the estate.

Speed limits: Please adhere to the 20km/h speed limit at all times. The speed limit is for the safety of you, your children, and your pets. Please also ask your visitors, contractors, and delivery personnel to adhere to these speed limits at all times.

Gates & Perimeter Security: Do not allow tailgating or unauthorised individuals to follow you into the estate at the main entrance or the vineyard gate. Never leave the vineyard gate until it has closed fully after entering or exiting the estate. If you notice anything unusual around the perimeter, immediately report it to security.

Suspicious Activity: If you see something that doesn’t seem right, please trust your instincts and report it to the security team or Jaen, the estate manager, immediately. Quick action can prevent harm to residents and their property.

Together, we can continue to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with living in a secure estate. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to making Aan de Weber a safer place for everyone.

 

Improving Estate Access

The trustees have initiated an investigation to determine if there are more secure, cost-effective, and user-friendly alternatives for access control for residents and their visitors. They will report back in due course their findings.

Until then, we request that all residents use the two mobile apps for access control to the estate. Gallagher is used for residents to enter and exit the estate, and At The Gate enables residents to give access to visitors, contractors, and delivery personnel.

 

 

 

 

If you are not using these apps, please download them from your app store and contact Jaen to register them for you. For more information on how to use both these apps, please follow this link to the webpage on our estate website.

 

Maintenance Update

Lifting Pathways

A contractor will be appointed shortly to propose a solution that minimises disturbance to the nearby tree roots. The most likely approach will involve cutting the large paving blocks into smaller sections and carefully relaying them.

Exit Boom Repair

A new boom mechanism has been purchased, and the contractor has replaced it.

Visitor Parking Bays

Cleaning of the oil stains in the visitors’ parking bays adjacent to House #88 is currently underway.

Gardens

You will have noticed a significant amount of cutting back of old shrubbery and replanting of new plants in the winter months in the common areas of the estate. This will continue so that all can enjoy the rewards in the spring. The grassed areas will soon be scarified, fertilized, and top-dressed.

Dam

The first phase of beautification and maintenance of the area around the estate dam is well underway, which will help maintain the quality of the estate’s irrigation water.

The big dam clean-up

Previously clogged with reeds, lilies, and pondweed, the dam underwent a thorough clean-up in June 2024, thanks to the tireless efforts of the trustees and a skilled contractor. The water from the dam is used to irrigate the gardens of Aan de Weber and the work has allowed us to avoid installing unsightly water tanks. The upgrades are not purely aesthetic and will result in cost savings and a more efficient irrigation system. 

To keep the dam clear, sterilised grass carp were introduced on the advice of one of our longstanding residents, Dr Revere Thomson. These five new residents will munch through an impressive 1.5 tons of pondweed a month. See photos below of the grass carps being released into the dam and enjoying their new neighbourhood.

The dam’s banks will also be landscaped gradually as funds allow. 

We have fitted the gate at the dam with a self-closing and -latching mechanism to keep our children safe. 

New sites at the waterfront 

Many residents have been attracted to the new and improved dam area over the past couple of months.

A jetty was generously donated and built at the dam by resident Kosie Theunissen from Theunissen Thatching. A big thank you goes out to Kosie, and we have decided to name the jetty “Kosie’s Landing” in his honour. The purpose of the jetty is to help us maintain the dam, but residents are welcome to enjoy the birdlife and tranquility of the dam from this vantage point. 

Some residents have also discovered that we have an abundant bass population in the dam. While fishing is generally allowed on private estates on a catch-and-release basis, this is a new activity for the HOA to navigate. We have decided to allow the fishing to continue on a trial basis and have put together a set of regulations that can be found on our website here: https://aandeweber.com/documentation/. We hope to balance the best interest of all our residents through these regulations and welcome any feedback. 

We encourage kindness, and particularly want to protect our hardworking new grass carp. Please take a look at some guidelines from Cape Nature on gentle catch and release practises: https://www.capenature.co.za/uploads/files/Code-of-Practice-for-Freshwater-Recreational-Angling-in-the-Western-Cape.pdf

Please note, only fish and aquatic birds are allowed to swim in the dam. 

Tree-mendous efforts

Remember the fierce storm on 6 April that wreaked havoc across Stellenbosch? The south-easterly winds uprooted 14 trees on our estate and scattered debris everywhere. The HOA acted swiftly, enlisting tree removal specialists the very next day.

Since then, replacement trees have been planted to bring beauty and shade in time for summer. Remember to keep the trees on your pavement watered, as you would the rest of your garden. We recommend watering the trees twice weekly for two hours, which amounts to about 30 L of water when the slow-releasing watering device is used. If you are going away during these holidays, please ask someone to keep your trees hydrated for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Save the date: Get-to-know-your-neighbour braai

We’ll be keeping the festivities going beyond December by hosting a “Get-to-know-your-neighbour” bring and braai towards the end of January 2025. It’s a great opportunity to get to know your fellow residents and keep the neighbourly spirits burning.

Wildlife wonders at Aan de Weber

We are privileged to live in a valley filled with natural wonders. Recently, a boomslang was safely relocated, and an African harrier hawk was spotted snatching eggs from a starling’s nest. 

Did you know?

Boomslangs are shy, tree-dwelling snakes with potent venom but are non-aggressive unless provoked. They play a vital role in controlling pests.

African harrier hawks are skilled climbers and use their double-jointed legs to raid nests for eggs and chicks.

Furry friends of Aan de Weber

Most Aan de Weber residents are animal lovers and in this edition of the newsletter, we feature some of the good-looking cats of the estate. (Dog fans, we will give your pooches a moment in the spotlight next time.)

Inverter and solar check-up coming soon

In January, all inverters on the estate will be inspected for compliance. Make sure yours meets the required standards. Take a look at the guidelines here https://aandeweber.com/documentation/ and stay tuned for more information.

Builders’ holidays

The builders’ holiday runs from 13 December 2024, to 13 January 2025. No construction work will be allowed during this time, except for emergencies. Please notify estate manager Jaen Bojè or the trustees in such cases.

Improving first impressions at the entrance 

You might have noticed that the main entrance gate area needs to be spruced up. A lick of paint, replacement of the shabby postboxes and some landscaping will go a long way. The HOA will tackle this project in the new year.

Holiday away from home tips

• Arrange for someone to water your garden.
• Turn off taps feeding dishwashers and washing machines.
• Consider shutting off your water main.
• Inform a neighbour and share your contact details.
• Ensure house sitters understand estate rules.
• Arrange for bins to be brought in after collection.

Security protocols

Aan de Weber prides itself on being a high-security estate. Help us maintain this:

• Use the Gallagher Mobile Connect App for estate access.
• Provide visitor access through the “At-the-Gate” app.
• Avoid tailgating when entering or exiting the estate.

Guidelines on how to use the apps can be found here: https://aandeweber.com/documentation/

These measures streamline security processes and comply with industry best practices. Let’s all do our part.

Online shopping deliveries

The festive season means more package deliveries. While the HOA cannot guarantee safekeeping, security guards will sign for parcels and store them in the server room if not collected the same day. Please check with duty officers if you are expecting a delivery.

Wishing you a wonderful festive season

We wish you a safe and joyous holiday season. Here’s to another year of scenic and secure living in our beautiful estate.

*Thanks to avid local photographer Revere Thomson for sharing his photos with us for this newsletter.

Aan de Weber uses two mobile apps for gate access. At the Gate enables visitor entries, while Gallagher is used by residents to enter and exit the estate.

How it works 

1. Contact Jaen Boje to get registered for both apps.
2. Download the apps:

The apps can be downloaded for free.

At the Gate 

iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/za/app/atthegate-user-application/id1221303077

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.atthegate.notification

Gallagher

iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/za/app/gallagher-mobile-connect/id1134751012

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/detailsid=com.gallagher.security.commandcentrecardholderapp

3. For resident access, swipe your phone across the scanner at the gate upon entry and exit of the estate (see troubleshooting below, you should not need to open the app first). For visitor access, use At the Gate to generate an access code for your visitor (see video below).

Gallagher troubleshooting 

You should be able to swipe your phone across the sensor at the security gate without having to open the app each time. Check that you have given the app “Background access”. Open the Gallagher app, click on the three dots at the top right, click “Settings” and check that “Background access” is on:

iPhone users, make sure the app’s background and location access settings show “on”. Go to your iPhone Settings, click on the app in your list of apps and switch on the buttons next to “Location” and “Background App Refresh”.

 

How to give visitors access with At the Gate

• At the Gate is used to generate a QR code that you will send to your visitor’s phone to scan at the security gate sensor.
• The code is used to enter and exit the estate.
• You can give contractors access and monitor when they entered and exited the estate.
• You can send codes that are valid for multiple entries and exits over a specified period of time. For example, when a friend is housesitting for you for two weeks.

Here’s how it works: 

 

The twelfth Aan de Weber AGM took place on 26 June 2024 at Stellenrust Wine Farm. Twenty-three members braved the cold to show their support for the smooth running of the estate. Luckily, Stellenrust’s finest was served to warm the conversation and fuel a neighbourly spirit.

Trustee Chairman 2023, Gavin Osborne, led the proceedings, and we are pleased to share a few highlights from the evening’s discussions. Trafalgar emailed the minutes to all homeowners, please reach out to them if you didn’t get your copy.

Your Board of Trustees 2024

Thank you to the homeowners who, over the years, have served on the Board of Trustees and contributed to making Aan de Weber a sought-after estate. The Trustees have been doing a stellar job, all while juggling their own family and work responsibilities.

The homeowners who were elected for the 2024 Board of Trustees are:

• Gavin Osborne ‒ Chairperson, Finance
• Gerhard Neethling ‒ Vice Chairperson
• Stephné de Villiers ‒ Communication & PR
• Johan Human ‒ Aesthetics & Gardens
• Erick Walters ‒ Maintenance, Tech & Security
• Francois Theron ‒ Governance & Compliance

Relieving the guard house of its storage duties

Many Aan de Weber residents enjoy staying fit on the Dornier trails, and many more stay active on online shopping sites. With people away at work during the day, deliveries pile up inside the guard house. This not only looks messy but poses a risk of misplaced packages.

Residents will be pleased to know that the Trustees are investigating a secure and attractive storage solution, which will replace the current postboxes.

The project will kick off soon, and we’re excited that it’s going to take a lot of the delivery headaches away.

Irrigation irritations

Much communication has been shared on the WhatsApp group regarding the irrigation maintenance troubles at the Aan de Weber dam. We are pleased to say that a sparkling dam surrounded by beautiful landscaping is on the way.

The dam was fully drained in the first week of August and the lilies removed, as they were clogging the pump and making the water murky. Irrigation will be done straight from the dam with no tanks being installed. The project will be completed in late August/early September.

Keeping out unwanted guests

Visitor access is currently a weak spot in our security. To help tighten security at Aan de Weber, it’s important to use the At the Gate app, which generates an access code that you can then send to your visitor for entry. When the guards simply phone you to ask for guest access, the entry and exit are not recorded. This makes it impossible to investigate when unwanted guests overstay their welcome.

If you are not yet registered for the At the Gate app, which can be downloaded for free from your app store, please reach out to Jaen Boje. 

No F1 (even on Sundays)

One of the biggest selling points of Aan de Weber is that it’s a haven for raising kids. We see them grow from going around the Aan de Weber “loop” in their strollers to riding a bike for the first time. Speeding cars spoil this idyllic scene and pose a serious risk for our children, including those with four legs and fur.

Please remind your guests and tenants about the speed limit. Drive slowly and take in our beautiful surroundings.

An alien invasion

Now, in winter, Aan de Weber is bursting with indigenous flowers (surely you stopped in your tracks when you spotted the King Proteas near the playpark).

While you are welcome to go “bos” inside your own property in terms of plant choices, the garden on the pavement outside your house needs to adhere to Aan de Weber’s approved list of plants that are indigenous and water-wise. You can find the full list under “Aan de Weber Guidelines” here.

You might not know this about your solar panels

All solar installations which include solar panels require a fireman’s switch in order to be compliant with the Stellenbosch Municipality’s regulations. It’s homeowners’ responsibility to ensure that they hold the requisite certificates of compliance and proof of correspondence with Eskom.

A worst-case scenario is when a house without the necessary isolating switches catches alight and damages a neighbouring property. Such damage would probably not be covered by a homeowner’s insurers.

Blown away

In April, the Cape’s first big winter storm stampeded through Aan de Weber and knocked over many trees. The root cause of this damage was discussed at the AGM. What was thought to be hardy, indigenous trees, were, in fact, a mix between an Aan de Weber-approved local tree and a non-indigenous species.

Research is being done to determine the best replacement for the fallen trees, and planting will begin soon.

How to avoid a shocking water bill 

Two residents recently received exorbitant water bills due to leaks that they were not aware of. To check for leaks: Take a photo of your water meter. Then, do not use any water in your house, including the washing machine or dishwasher, for one hour. Take another photo of your water meter and compare the photos. If the photos are identical, there are no leaks, and you are good to go.

As we enter the last few months of “kaggel” season, we wish all of you warmth and continued happiness at Aan de Weber. Thank you for helping to make it the best place to live in Stellenbosch. 

Images courtesy of resident Revere Thomson.

Newsletter 4Q2022 & 1Q2023

Dear Owners and Residents of Aan de Weber Estate

Introduction

During the 2022/23 year, the trustees’ main focus was to maintain the momentum built during the previous year, specifically relating to estate maintenance, good governance, compliance to the Estate’s rules and to the architectural guidelines.
Post-pandemic, the demands on the majority of the trustee committee by their respective businesses and/or careers increased significantly, and consequently they were hard-pressed to ensure completion of projects which had been interrupted.

2021/22 Annual General Meeting

The 9th Annual General Meeting was again held on the neighbouring wine farm, Stellenrust.
A properly constituted meeting, comprising of only 12 individuals with voting rights, holding in total 35 votes, formed a quorum. The following individuals were elected as trustees:

Gavin Osborne (subsequently re-elected as Chairperson)
Revere Thomson (subsequently elected as Vice Chairperson)
Ters Conradie
Minette du Preez-Joubert
Paul Mouton

In addition to the above, Ms Jaen Bojè continued in her role as Estate Manager, who, aside from her many ad-hoc duties, coordinated much of the work done by service providers, the maintenance of the residents’ staff register, the owner/tenant register, and provided vital support to the trustee committee.

Security

After the successful completion of the thermal camera installation on the eastern, southern, and western perimeters, the first phase of the upgrade of the existing infrastructure on the northern fence was completed in the December ’22 festive season. The second phase focusing on the improvement of image quality is planned to be completed by the end of May ’23.
With extended periods of load shedding becoming the norm, the lithium battery capacity was bolstered so that the entire security infrastructure can operate without Eskom for periods in excess of 8 hours.
Tutella Securitas continue to be the Estate’s chosen security partner.

Speed Limit and Stop Signs

Residents are reminded that at the last AGM a motion was unanimously approved to have the speed limit reduced from 30kph to 20kph. This in view of the number of small children who play and ride their tricycles and bicycles in the roads, which are quite narrow.
Please also remember to stop at the stop streets. The stop signs are there for a good reason.
Our rules provide for fines to be imposed when the above are transgressed.

Easy and automatic access to the Estate using Mobile Apps

Residents are urged to use the Gallagher Mobile Connect App when entering and exiting the estate. It really simplifies the process, and free’s up the security officers, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons. Failure to use the App might well result in the security officers having to record the driver’s details, photograph the driver’s licence, and scan the car’s licence disc.
In addition, residents are urged to use the “At-the-Gate” Digital User App in order to afford their visitors, and/or service providers (electricians, plumbers, repairmen etc), easy access. With this, the security officers do not have to record their details, scan their licence discs, and inspect their driver’s licences.
The information is necessary for Aan de Weber to comply with the security industry’s ‘best practice’ as recommended by our external security consultants.

Gardens

We would like to thank all residents for their continued support in maintaining the beauty of our estate.
As we move into winter, we would like to remind all homeowners of the importance of maintaining their sidewalks. Even though this is common property, the owners are responsible for maintenance thereof. While we were fortunate to have had rains during the winter season, the hot and dry weather in January and February took its toll on our common areas. Although the trees on the sidewalks are well established, they do still require watering, especially during hot and dry spells, when they can become stressed.
The estate’s irrigation is about 12 years old. In November 2022, the system began to show signs of physical obsolescence, and tree roots began to restrict the flow of certain watering stations. Despite efforts to have our regular service provider assist, the continuous load shedding had caused major problems across their client base, and they were unable to accommodate us. As a result, we had to bring in expensive corporate golf course professionals to resolve the issue.
Through this experience, however, we were able to build a working relationship with specialist subcontractors, who will be used in the future to ensure the longevity of our irrigation system.
During December 2022 we also experienced problems with our borehole’s float switches, the irrigation pump in the dam and the aeration fountain pump. The latter pump has been replaced. After the overhaul of the dam intake pump system, issues with smelly water became apparent. Water samples were submitted to a SANAS-approved laboratory. The results indicated that the water quality was excellent, with insignificant E.coli count.
In terms of the water odour, the opinion is that the irrigation inlet is too close to the edge and floor of the dam. This results in water, together with decomposing materials with a high sulphur content and anaerobes, being taken up into the irrigation system which is causing the strange smell. The inlet will be relocated to the centre of the dam, closer to the aeration fountain.
We are also looking into a backup power system to counter some of the effects of load shedding on the irrigation system.

House Maintenance

The estate is now fully built-up with 102 homes. Many of the homes are over 5 years old, and therefore it is important for us all to keep on top of maintenance issues as and when they first become apparent. Owners are encouraged to ensure that the general appearance of their homes is maintained to a high standard so as to preserve not only the high value of their asset, but the estate in general.

Estate Braai – Friday 24 March

A long-overdue estate braai was arranged by resident Rico Wessels and Estate manager Jaen Bojè. There was a good turnout, the weather was kind to all, braais were lit, and the two jumping castles were fully utilised. A few photos taken at the event can be seen in the Gallery on www.aandeweber.com .

Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to read this rather belated letter. With the AGM planned for this coming June ’23, there is still much to do in too little time! Thanks to the trustee committee and to many of those residents who step-up to the plate to assist without ever being asked. Aan de Weber is a family-friendly, pet-friendly estate, and is a special place to live.

Gavin Osborne
Chairperson

Update following the 2020/21 Annual General Meeting

Dear Owners and Residents of Aan de Weber Estate

Introduction

During the 2020/21 year, the previous trustee committee adopted a back-to-basics approach. In the interest of good governance, the Estate Rules were revisited, in part to ensure compliance with the Stellenbosch Municipal by-laws, and to ensure that they were relevant in the times we now live in.

The issues addressed by previous chairperson Billy Evans in his post AGM report dated 01 October 2020 (https://aandeweber.com/news/ ), remain important and relevant, and I would encourage all owners to read the report once again.

2020/21 Annual General Meeting

The 8th Annual General Meeting was held much closer to home this year on 28 July 2021, at the neighbouring Stellenrust Wine Estate.

A properly constituted meeting, comprising of 17 Individuals with voting rights, and 25 proxies which were received beforehand, formed a quorum. The following individuals were elected as Trustees:

• Gavin Osborne (subsequently elected as Chairperson)
• Paul Mouton (subsequently elected as Vice Chairperson)
• Ters Conradie
• Minette du Preez-Joubert
• Andrew Pyke
• Frans de Villiers (since resigned)

As an integral part of the trustee team, the HOA continue to employ Estate Manager – Jaen Bojé – whose can-do attitude and boundless energy in attending to a broad spectrum of duties, provides a much-appreciated peace-of-mind.

It is important to repeat the following points made by the previous chairperson:

• The Home Owners’ Association (HOA) is a legal entity established in accordance with the CONSTITUTION OF THE AAN DE WEBER HOME OWNERS ASSOCIATION, a copy of which is signed by and lodged with the Stellenbosch Municipality.
• The HOA has rights and duties independent from its members and does not operate for the acquisition of profit for itself or its members.
• The Trustees are not entitled to remuneration, salary, or fees in respect of their services and performance of their duties.

Security

In order to remain in the category of a high-quality security estate, the HOA employs independent consultancy Scholtz Consulting (Pty) Ltd, to advise and supervise the ongoing upgrading of our security infrastructure.

We are focused on applying ‘best practice’ across all facets of security, and in terms of guarding, a healthy partnership is in place with our security service provider – Tutella Securitas (Pty) Ltd.

All the up-to-date metrics are continually monitored, and the HOA is advised of any irregularities and anomalies which come to light. As a backup to the in-house security arrangements, the HOA contracts ADT (Pty) Ltd to provide armed response if required.

With the recent bout of Eskom load shedding, residents will have noticed a hive of activity at the security gate house as an engineer, an electrician and technicians installed an alternative backup power source for our security infrastructure. We now have two layers of redundancy in the form of an inverter/lithium battery installation, and the existing diesel generator. Residents living close to the gate should no longer be disturbed by the purr of the oil burner during load shedding!

In addition, the electrical infrastructure has been upgraded and will carry a current and valid Certificate of Compliance.

The penultimate stage of the thermal camera project is about to be finalized, and will be fully operational before mid-December.

The previous generation of white magnetic visitor cards has become obsolete, and the trustees, considering the advice of our consultants, selected an alternative which provides improved performance and integrity over the previous generation.

The onus, however, remains on the owners/residents to ensure that their employees’ details, held by the Trafalgar Property Management (Pty) Ltd, are valid at all times. In the event of a staff member leaving your employ, it is the employer’s responsibility (resident/owner) to ensure that the card is returned to security, and that they are advised that the individual is no longer employed.

Parking of Vehicles

All visitor parking bays are now clearly demarcated, and there are a number of ‘No Parking’ signs in areas where safety concerns so warrant them. Residents are requested to be considerate, especially over weekends when visitor parking is often at a premium.

House Maintenance

Many of the homes in Aan de Weber Estate are now over 5 years old, and as we all know, the ravages of time eventually take its toll on even the most well-constructed dwellings. It goes without saying that a well-maintained home retains and even increases in value over time. If all the homes on the estate are well maintained, by extension, the overall value of the estate will increase too.

As part of their ongoing duties, in terms of Rule 8.1 of the Estate Rules, the trustees must conduct regular inspection of all properties.

At the end of September 2021, the trustees identified properties which required obvious attention, and the owners were requested to remedy various issues by the end of February 2022.

If you were one of the owners who received a reminder, please do not leave it to the last minute.

Pets

Aan de Weber is a pet friendly estate. That being said, the rules are quite clear on all aspects relating to the keeping of pets. If you live with pets, please take the time to appraise yourself of the do’s and don’ts in terms of these rules (see https://aandeweber.com/documentation/).

The most common pet-related complaint received by the Trustees, is that of dog walkers not cleaning up after their pets. We implore dog owners not to walk their dogs unless they have a poo-bag. Please also instruct your dog-walkers to do likewise.

Cats are renowned for exploring people’s gardens, looking for places to leave their mark when homeowners aren’t looking. One of the natural ways you can stop them from doing their business in your garden is to scatter scents they don’t like. We have it on good authority that a product called “Footsack” is very effective, and is freely available from vet shops in spray or granules.

A useful tip received by a resident, who is “owned” by two cats: Please do not feed visiting animals, no matter how hungry and desperate they look. Like children, they will prefer eating out, and might eventually end up camping permanently on your stoep!

Gardens

After good winter rainfall and some plentiful rain showers in the recent past, the fynbos and other shrubs are looking pretty and in full bloom. The lawns in the common areas have also been top-soiled, fertilized and weeded. It is unfortunate that occasionally the stems of flowering shrubs are being either broken or cut off. Residents are requested to remind their children that such behaviour is unacceptable and can attract a fine of up to R1000.00.

Conclusion

Finally, thank you for taking the time to read this notice. The trustees look forward to working with all owners and residents to ensure that Aan de Weber Estate remains the great place that it is.

Yours sincerely

 

Gavin Osborne

Chairperson

Dear Owners and Tenants of the Aan de Weber Estate

General introduction
In our last update on update on 20 October 2020, the Trustee Committee (‘the Committee’) undertook to issue quarterly updates aimed at keeping members and residents alike abreast of developments on the estate.

In our previous communication you may recall I set out the Committee’s high-level objectives namely to create a harmonious environment where members and residents treat each other with courtesy and respect, enjoy the multiple benefits of the estate, and capitalise on their investment. I also referred to the symbiotic relationship necessary between members and the Committee that ultimately determines our collective success or failure.

Building on that theme, the Committee has adopted two further principles to guide our efforts in relation to the revised rules, the year-end February 2022 budget and capital expenditure, and the appropriate level of capital reserves that an Estate of our magnitude needs to carry on its balance sheet. These two simple principles are as follows:

1. As depicted in the supplement to our Estate logo above, the formula that drives a successful and sought-after Estate is consistent focus on:
   a. High quality security
   b. High quality aesthetics
   c. Financial viability as it pertains to the operational budget and capital reserves.
2. From a maintenance and aesthetics perspective, “It is more efficient to maintain it than regain it.”

You will hopefully recognise these principles being put into practice in the contents of this communication, as well as the new financial year’s budget that will be presented at the next Annual General Meeting.

Lastly, our previous communication referred to the main challenges on the Estate namely:

• Vehicles and parking
• Pets and general estate aesthetics
• Letting arrangements and commercial activities
• Adherence to the building code.

We have tried to address all of these challenges in a considered and balanced way in the revised rules that are attached and applicable with immediate effect.

Specific updates

1.  Appointment of an Estate Manager
Throughout the recent history of the Estate, Jaen Boje has consistently played an important support role to the Committee as it pertains to the general upkeep of the Estate. The Committee has decided to formalize this role and is pleased to announce that as of 1 February 2021 Jaen has accepted and been appointed as the on-site Estate Manager working closely with Trafalgar who will continue to provide the necessary administrative support. In this role Jaen will report directly to the Committee, and act with the Committee’s full mandate and support in running the Estate on a day-to-day basis.

2. Security
The Committee is pleased to inform you that phase 1 of the security upgrades, namely the installation of high definition thermo cameras on the western and northern boundaries, has been successfully completed and commissioned. The Committee and members of the estate owe a special word of thanks to Ters Conradie for his tireless efforts in this regard, and to Gavin Osborne for controlling the ‘purse strings’ and completing the project R15 973 under budget.

Further proposals to expedite the necessary upgrades of the southern and eastern boundaries and the replacement of the ‘past-due-date’ card system with a modern biometric access system will be presented as part of the new budget cycle.

3. Building guidelines
The Committee has made attempts to address previous breaches but more importantly, as is expected in a maturing estate, continues to receive numerous requests for relaxation of the guidelines to resolve boundary wall privacy issues and, pergola extensions to name but a few. The Committee does not have, nor can it realistically be expected to have, the appropriate expertise to manage these requests fairly, consistently and in the best interests of the Estate overall. For the reason, the Committee has agreed to appoint Young-Pugh and Associates as the Estate’s scrutinizing architect. The process of transfer from Dennis Moss is underway, and the rules have been updated accordingly to reflect the revised application and approval process. Perhaps more importantly, one of the first requests of our new scrutinizing architect will be to review and ‘modernize’ the building guidelines to accommodate reasonable requests and evaluate and implement them in a consistent way in the best interests of the members and the Estate.

4. Revised Estate rules
The revised Estate rules are attached for your reference and will also be uploaded to the website which we aim to launch before the end of February 2021. What follows is a summary of the main changes, but that said it should not be regarded as comprehensive, and I encourage all members to peruse them in detail, as well as ensure that they are made available to your tenants should be letting your home.

4.1 Section 4, 5 and 6. Reiterating Aims and Objectives, Members’ Obligations, and Members’ Liability, respectively.
4.2 Section 8 – Maintenance. New process to deal with members or tenants who do not comply with keeping the garden area between their boundary wall and the kerb neat and tidy.
4.3 Section 10 – Functions. New process to manage large social gatherings.
4.4 Section 12 – Pets. New dispensation and process required for households that are in breach of the ‘two pet rule’. In particular the future enforcement of the ‘two pet rule’ as it pertains to future leases.
4.5 Section 15 – Parking. New processes to deal with the use of (to be) demarcated visitor’s parking bays, and the requirement for members and tenants to display a Resident Token on vehicles registered with the Managing Agent to ‘overnight’ on the estate. In this regard please also note our comment in section 5.
4.6 Section 23 – Letting and Resale. New processes to deal with future leases, in particular the need for prior approval from the Trustee Committee (which will not be unreasonably withheld), the signing of an Owner/Tenant declaration prior to finalization of a lease, and the requirement of landlords to provision for a garden service in the lease agreement.
4.7 Section 24 – Commercial activities. New processes, and dispensations required, to govern commercial activities on our residential estate.
4.8 Section 28 – Building requirements. Following on from point 3 above, the new processes to manage the approval of construction or similar change requests associated with the estate’s building guidelines.
4.9 Section 26 – Fire prevention. The requirement for every household to have and maintain a 4.5kg DCP fire extinguisher.
4.10 Section 28 – Levies. Going forward, any fines to be added directly to the levy statement and treated as such.
4.11 Annexures on pages 22 to 28. Related to the overall set of rules, the schedule of fines and administrative forms necessary to enable the Estate Manager and Managing Agent to effectively manage the estate.

5. Immediate focus
The Committee’s immediate focus is now on

• Estate parking – the demarcation of visitors parking bays will commence on 10 February 2021, and the procurement and roll out of the Resident Tokens will be completed by the end of March, sooner if possible.
• The continuation of the security upgrades.
• Following up on the letters issued to members last year to address maintenance and aesthetic issues associated with their homes and pavements.
• Preparation of the year-ended February 2022 budget
• Preparation and proposed funding of the next wave of specific capital expenditure required to finalise the security of upgrade the estate.

In closing, the Committee would like to thank members for their continued support, and your proactive and constructive feedback and suggestions remain encouraged and welcomed. Thank you for taking the time to read this communication, and I look forward to updating you all again in the second quarter of 2021.

Yours sincerely

Billy Evans
Chairman

Dear Owners and Tenants of the Aan de Weber Estate,

Introduction
As the new chairman of the Board of Trustees, I would just like to take the opportunity to properly introduce your new board and chat a little about our collective view of the way forward for our beautiful estate.

Some of us are more inclined toward the “fine print” than others, although most would probably agree that it is nonetheless very important. So, with that in mind, a short summary about some of the “legal stuff” that is important to be aware of and understand.

• The Home Owners’ Association (HOA) is a legal entity established in accordance with the CONSTITUTION OF THE AAN DE WEBER HOME OWNERS ASSOCIATION, a copy of which is signed by and lodged with the Stellenbosch Municipality.
• The HOA has rights and duties independent from its members and does not operate for the acquisition of profit for itself or its members.
• The Trustees are not entitled to remuneration, salary, or fees in respect of their services and performance of their duties.

At the understandably belated Annual General Meeting held at Weltevreden Hills Historic Estate on 17 September 2020, a properly constituted quorum of members (members present or by proxy who together represent at least 25% of the total votes of all members entitled to vote) voted the following individuals in as Trustees

• Billy Evans (subsequently nominated as the Chairman)
• Gavin Osborne
• Willem Boshoff
• Ters Conradie
• Minette du Preez-Joubert

On behalf of myself and the members of our estate, I would personally like to thank the Trustees and Jaen Boje who remains an invaluable extension to the team, in advance for the time and effort that they dedicate in service of the smooth running of our estate. Those of you who have served on committees of this nature know that as much as it can be rewarding, it is often times a thankless task.

Setting the scene
The objectives of the HOA are very clear, as is the trustees’ responsibility to uphold and achieve them. In summary they are

1.  To manage and maintain the estate
2.  To promote, advance and protect the interests of the members
3.  To administer and enforce the building manual
4.  To take transfer of, maintain and control the “common areas” of the estate
5.  To make regulations in order to achieve or promote the objectives.

In keeping with this, Section 20 of the constitution sets out extensively the functions and powers of your committee (circa. 32 items, therefore not listed), and section 6 succinctly sets out the duties of the HOA members, namely yourselves

1.  To the best of “your” ability further the objectives and interests of the Association.
2.  Observe all regulations (including conduct rules) made by the trustee committee.

Your committees’ approach
Guided by our responsibilities as set out in the HOA Constitution, and by the Estate Rules that are amended from time to time, as a board of trustees our approach is simple:

• We aim to create a harmonious environment where all members and residents treat each other with courtesy and respect, and as such allow all to enjoy the multiple benefits of the estate, and capitalise on the investment they have made in their homes and the estate.
• We recognize that as a committee our success is directly correlated to our collective efforts and abilities, and crucially the support and cooperation of our members.

I cannot emphasize the last part of the above statement enough; members and the trustees have a symbiotic relationship which fundamentally determines our collective success or failure.

Challenges and immediate areas of focus

Security
With the aid of Trafalgar, we are pleased to report that a comprehensive audit of the security access cards has been completed. As such we are in control of exactly how many active access cards are in circulation and exactly who they have been issued to. Maintaining this discipline is vital to ensuring the integrity of the digital audit trail and overall security of our estate. It follows that any practice that bypasses these controls fundamentally undermines the security of the estate and the continued investments therein.

We appeal to all residents to ensure they use their access cards whenever necessary, communicate immediately with Trafalgar if the cards are damaged or lost, and adhere to the visitor protocols that have been established. With immediate effect, Security has been instructed to

• Albeit it with courteous intent, desist the practice of swiping their Security card to allow residents to enter or exit the estate.
• Disallow any visitors onto the estate unless they have received the express consent of the resident, preferably via the At-the-Gate mobile application or, until all transition issues have been resolved, telephonically.

Vehicles and Parking
In general, parking and specifically the inappropriate use of the visitor-parking bays, is creating heightened tension in the estate, not to mention creating damage (oil stains) in some areas that will have to be remedied from the common purse. The width of roads of the estate were also not designed to allow for curb side parking. To address the matter the committee has agreed the following:

• With immediate effect, all visitor bays will be clearly demarcated with aesthetically blending parking / no parking signs.
• Trafalgar will be tasked with completing an audit of all vehicles that “sleep on the estate”, with a view to issuing Resident Parking Discs that are to be displayed in the vehicles at all times.
• Amending the estate rules and fines schedule accordingly.

These measures represent a first stage, and we will communicate further in this regard to ensure all residents are kept abreast of developments.

Pets
Although the rules of the estate are quite clear with regard to the number of pets allowed per household, and the responsibilities associated with those pets, over time adherence to these rules has been allowed to slide, and is similarly creating tension on the estate. In particular, the estate has signage that clearly states “Clean-up, Leash-up or Pay-up” – personally, I do not think this could be any clearer. That said, there are residents that unfortunately choose to disregard this, which not only poses a health and safety risk to residents, children, and pets on the estate, it is simply disrespectful to fellow residents.

In the interest of harmony, we therefore appeal to all pet owners to “up-your-game”, and constructively hold yourself and others to account. Although it is something we would prefer to avoid, going forward the committee will not hesitate to impose the fines schedule should it be necessary to do so.

In terms of the number of pets, similarly Trafalgar will be tasked with completing an audit of all pets per household, and in parallel the committee will apply its mind with a view to developing practical and sensible measures to address the challenge over time.

We will communicate further in this regard to ensure all residents are kept abreast of developments.

Building code
As with the history of most estates, now that the vast majority of development is complete, at this stage it is natural for owners to consider making improvements to their homes for investment or aesthetic purposes or, as is often the case in smaller estates such as Aan de Weber, to improve and enhance privacy. The committee is broadly supportive of this, and there are clear protocols in place to execute improvements in line with the building code (which trustees are duty bound to “enforce” – direct quote from the constitution) and ensure the committee is in position to be supportive. Our appeal is therefore that owners make themselves familiar with and follow the appropriate channels to obtain authorisation in advance of construction, and thereby avoid putting your HOA in a position whereby they are compelled to address violations.

Future communication
Going forward, the committee has undertaken to issue quarterly updates on the range of activities designed to maintain and improve the estate, and as an owner and resident your proactive and constructive feedback and suggestions are encouraged and welcomed.

Specifically, with regard to owners who have tenant’s resident on the estate. As it is currently, it remains your responsibility to ensure your tenants have received a copy of and are familiar with the estate rules. That said, we would like draw your attention to the fact that, in the future, in addition to communicating with the owner on all matters,

Trafalgar has also been instructed to communicate directly with tenants on general matters, and specific matters should the need arise.

Thank you for taking the time to read this communication, and I look forward to working with the trustees and residents to move our estate forward.

Yours sincerely
Billy Evans
Chairman