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.
