Paul Roux Forum - Chairman's Autumn Message June 2013

Autumn is a time for mixed feelings – it signals the end of warmth, long days, green fields and the slowing down of life for many things – some animals go into hibernation, plants retreat or seem to die off, dogs sleep a lot more, mornings are darker and colder, and evenings arrive earlier in the day. One seems to have so much to do but less time to do it in.

 

But with Autumn, also comes the changing of the countryside into seas of gold and bronze, trees seem to be ablaze with yellow glory, as if soaking up all the last of the warm rays of sunlight. People lucky enough to have fireplaces light them again, and they, with their pets, have the opportunity to all sit around and enjoy the warmth. Others braaing, or sitting around their bomas, are warmly dressed and wear scarves and beanies – and red wine, a fine whisky or piping hot coffee or milo makes for conversation around these pools of warmth and which are so typical for many of the Paul Roux experience.

I believe I can honestly say that these past few weeks have probably been some of the finest weather I have had the pleasure of experiencing in my life. The days have been sunny and pleasant. There has hardly been any wind, we had late rains which kept many gardens still looking green and full of colour, and the morning sunrise and evening sunset awash with the early pink glow, or the golden end of day shimmer, has been perfect for walking, cycling, horse-riding and meeting one another.

I read a report last year in my capacity as Chairman of WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of SA), that the greater Johannesburg area could expect its population to double within the next 10 years, and most of the new inhabitants would not be tax or rate paying citizens and many would be the unemployed. There is an expectation that there will be an increase in crime, lack of service delivery or maintenance around water, waste and sewage and energy/power problems will continue. More and more fortified residential estates are going up as ordinary residents feel threatened in stand-alone houses in suburbs. This is happening to many of the cities, and as it does so people with the ability and funds to be able to make a lifestyle choice are once again looking towards country village living.

 

We, the fortunate ones who live and have property here need to fully understand how fortunate we are to be able to live safely, walk our dogs, have kids riding their bikes in the streets and the beautiful countryside we are enclosed in. In addition, we have a beautiful road to Bethlehem, just 20 minutes away where practically all the facilities and amenities that we need are at hand.

As we attract visitors to Paul Roux – we are especially reaching out to the horse-riding community ( we have gone from 2 – 13 horses now), arts ( 8 artists) and crafts (several people doing pottery), writers, professionals and anyone willing to bring their talents and positive energy to the Village, I am predicting that it will continue to grow into the jewel which I see emerging.

I am a very Proud Paul Rouxster!!!.  Please support the Forum by becoming a member – we really are making every effort to ensure that our Village has a magnificent future. Regards Richard.