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Mountain Club of South Africa - Cape Town Section

Welcome to the news section of our website. Listed below are the past issues of our monthly newsletter, Mountain Ears, as well as our weekly What’s On. On the right are the categories in which past articles are stored, or Search to find any item in past newsletters. 

Submissions to the Newsletter are welcome, so too are any queries about the newsletters, etc. Or click Help for more information. The deadline for Mountain Ears is the end of each month, and for the weekly What's On it's the Thursday prior to publication on Monday morning.

What's On: 17 - 30 June 2013

2013/06/17
 This is an advance notice for the Postberg (Langebaan) meet on 15th August. Please contact the convenor Teresa Raposo to book by email – t.castilho.raposo@gmail.com as soon as possible. NB Wild card must be valid for date of meet at time of booking, or pay R48, also additional charge, R60-00, for Postberg section payable by ALL. Full amount to be paid at time of booking. No refunds possible. The annual pilgrimage to Giant's Castle will happen on the 10th to 14th July to go and climb on the best ice falls in South Africa. Infact with the decline of ice on Kili and Kenya, this is the best ice climbing in Africa today. See article for further details. Please note that the following meet was inadvertently left out of the electronic calendar; please update your records: Thursday 26 Sept 2013 BLIND GULLY (B Grade): Ascend Blind Gully, then probably along St Michael’s Ridge before descending via Kasteels Poort. Phone leader James Irving at 021 552 3928, from 08h00 on Monday 23rd September. Happy hiking. Jenni

MCSA National News: June 2013

2013/06/14
 In this news bulletin: 1.1) UIAA Global Youth Summit Events: apply in June/July 1.2) UIAA Youth Leader Training Course (Magaliesberg), August 1.3) UIAA Safety Commission 2) International Climbers Meet (ICM), Yosemite, October 3) Mount Ararat Expedition, Turkey, September 4) IMS Photo Contest 5) Introduction to Wilderness Seminar 6) Cordillera Blanca Expedition, Peru, July 7) Section News 8) Snippets Sections and members are welcome to send in news to bridget.carrick@gmail.com Best Regards Bridget Carrick MCSA eNews Editor (still in training) ****************************************************************************** “explore – discover – connect – protect” "verken – ontdek – ontmoet – bewaar” The direct motives which lead us up to the mountain tops are many and various - reducible probably to one. An observant philosopher once noted the different reasons for taking whisky at a bar; “ Three of whisky, please; must do something to keep out the cold”; “Ditto for me; nasty cough hanging on me”; and so on, until at last some one was frank enough to say, “Three of whisky for me, because I likes it.” So one of us climb for the exercise, another in public interest, but all of us “because we likes it.” The Mountain Club Annual 1895, No 2, FC Kolbe, Side-lights on mountain climbing, pp.22-24 ******************************************************************************

What's On: 10 - 23 June 2013

2013/06/10
 Here is your weekly inspiration for vertical exercise, as well as reports-back on the club's meets for the previous week. These often include slide shows which showcase what our members have been up to, so please take a look. Also, there are various important club notices regarding What's On aside from our regular meets programme. Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 3 - 15 June 2013 and ME Digest including Meets & Circular 646

2013/06/03
 After having been blown away by the violent storms this weekend, I am pleased to be able to report that a little sunshine is on its way later this week. To cheer you up we've included a weather report so you can see What's On weather-wise and decide on rain-gear or Raybans. Also included this week, for your downloadable pleasure, are electronic copies of the Mountain Ears Digest and Circular 646. Plus, an account of a mugging in Silvermine which happened earlier on this year and recent meet reports-back complete with pics and slideshows. If you've lost gear on Elsies Peak recently, it might be found. See notice below. Hope you're keeping warm and dry. Jenni

What's On update

2013/05/30
 Due to Ineke Moseley not having a voice and not feeling well, the following slide show which was scheduled for 20:30 pm on Friday, 31 May will be postponed until Friday, 5 July 2013: Peninsula flora: pollination strategies, endemics and some rarities A slide show presented by Ineke Moseley. A DVD from the library will be shown instead.

Mountain Ears June 2013 incorporating What's On: 27 May - 10 June 2013

2013/05/27
 Welcome to this months Mountain Ears. In this edition we bring you interesting stories from the past month, some great upcoming meets to get you out and about and a few events that should keep you entertained over the next few weeks. Our newsletter advertisements let you know what related offers are out there, while raising much-needed revenue for the club – so, do support our advertisers. Some of them offer great discounts to club members, but remember – no card, no discount. Want to advertise here? Please direct all queries and bookings to our office manager at 021 465 3412 on weekdays between 10h00 and 14h00, or write to mcsacapetown@iafrica.com. Simply reply to this email with your compliments, complaints or contributions, or send to mcsa.connect@gmail.com. This has been my first month as editor, it's taken me a while to actually get settled in and hopefully I'll be there by July when I'm back to bring you all your mountaineering information. Till then, have a great week and I'll see you on the trail. David

What's On: 20 May - 2 June 2013

2013/05/20
 This weeks What's On brings you Doing the Math a short film on what we can do about climate change and more information on the Spirit of the Mountains book by Jeff Goy that is being launched at the club. There is some updated information about climbing permits on and around Table Mountain, please familiarize yourself with these to avoid any conflicts with the local rangers. You can also print the attached letter and keep it with you. Have a great week and I'll see you on the trail. David

MCSA National News: May 2013

2013/05/17
 MCSA eNews has been resuscitated with the aim of improving communication within the MCSA. In this News Bulletin: 1) MCSA Central Committee 2013 2) 94th July Camp 2013 3) Krom River Hut 60th celebrations - 25 May 4) Stephen Venables lecture tour and MCSA Annual Dinner: Nov 5) Tradathon, Magaliesberg – 18 May 6) National Meets 7) National Search and Rescue Meet – feedback 8) Supertramps 9) Kgaswane (Magaliesberg) court case 10) Table Mountain National Park activity permits 11) Section News 12) Snippets Sections and members are welcome to send in news to bridget.carrick@gmail.com Best regards Bridget Carrick MCSA eNews Editor (in training) “explore – discover – connect – protect” "verken – ontdek – ontmoet – bewaar”. **************************************************************** Great things are done when men and mountains meet; This is not done by jostling in the street. - William Blake ****************************************************************

What's On: 13 May - 26 May 2013

2013/05/13
 Wow, the week flew by a bit faster than I had hoped and we're already onto this weeks What's On. That means that I'm still busy settling in and finding my feet. While I'm doing that here is your weekly happenings. See you on the trail. David

What's On: 6 May - 19 May 2013

2013/05/06
 Welcome to the weekly What's On. This weeks meets are coming to you from a new part time editor. My name is David Frylinck and I'll be bringing you your meets and news for the month of May. I'm still feeling my way around here and hope to be settled in for next weeks update. Have a great week and I'll see you on the trail. David

Mountain Ears May 2013 incorporating What's On: 29 April - 11 May 2013

2013/04/29
 This month, in addition to the usual What's On and usual meet reports-back we have a slide-show of the MCSA Loyalty Awards evening, loads of international news, an update on the adventures of the 2012 MCSA Supertramp award winners, and a mountaineering tribute to a great mountaineer and member for 48 years, the late Mike de Wet. Learn more about your rights and don't let the rangers bully you with regard to TMNP Activity permits. We showcase Chris Walker's Flowers of the month, try to find out more about a Historic Song and have no less than three expedition and trail offers. Lastly a story about a Grand Old Man of S&R, who is now retiring. Hope you enjoy the read. Our newsletter advertisements let you know what mountain-related products and services are on offer, while raising much-needed revenue for the club – so, do support our advertisers. Some of them offer great discounts to club members, but remember – no card, no discount. Want to advertise here? Please direct all queries and bookings to our office manager at 021 465 3412 on weekdays between 10h00 and 14h00, or write to mcsacapetown@iafrica.com. Please send all comments and/or suggestions to the Editor by simply replying to this email. The deadline for the next edition of Mountain Ears is 20 May 2013. Happy hiking. Jenni Fitzell

What's On: 21 April - 4 May 2013

2013/04/22
 Don't forget the Loyalty Awards Evening is to be held on Friday 26 April 2013 at 7.30pm. Also, Outward Ventures is very excited to be holding its first sale, direct to the public, in over 20 years. Make your way to the MCSA Clubhouse on Saturday 27th April from 9am as early as you can. Limited stock will disappear chop chop! Happy hiking. Jenni

Outward Ventures sale

2013/04/24
 Outward Ventures is very excited to be holding its first sale, direct to the public, in over 20 years! When : Saturday, 27 April 2013, from 09h00. Where : The Mountain Club of South Africa, Hatfield St, Cape Town. If you are a fan of La Sportiva, DMM, Wild Country, Roca ropes, MSR equipment, Therm-a-Rest sleeping mats, Platypus hydration systems, Mund socks, Back Country Freeze Dried meals, and Slingsby Maps, get yourself down to the Mountain Club on the 27th, as early as you can! Limited stock will disappear chop chop!!

Breekkrants weekend cancelled

2013/04/18
 Please be advised that the joint Cape Town and Hottentots Holland Section meet to Breekkrants on the weekend of the 20th-21st is cancelled because of the damage due to the fires earlier this year. For further info please contact Nic at nicholaslemaitre@gmail.com

What's On: 15 - 27 April 2013

2013/04/15
 An interesting What's On this week with the usual Calendar of events from which to choose as well as reports back from three very different meets that have recently taken place - a midweek meet, a nostalgic climb and a work meet to install a new water supply tank at TM hut. Please diarise the Loyalty Awards evening to be held on 26th April. You'd be amazed at who has been a club member for 50 years! To see a sneak preview of the list of names, see the article below. Enjoy your autumnal adventures. Jenni

What's On: 8 - 21 April 2013

2013/04/08
 Here is your weekly update of what's on in the mountains. Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 1 - 16 April 2013

2013/04/01
 Here is your weekend fix of What's On in the mountains of the Cape, and in international news, discover why Reinhold Messner is furious. Happy mountaineering. Jenni

Mountain Ears April 2013 incorporating What's On 25 March - 6 April 2013

2013/03/25
 The Chamonix Mountain Festival, see last month's Mountain Ears for article, has just got its website up and running. You can find them here: www.chamonixmountainfestival.com In this issue we have new info and pics of the cleaning of Welbedacht cave by members of eCrag and downloadable application form and brochure for the 2013 July camp to be held at Wonder Valley in the Drakensberg this year. Also an absolutely gorgeous pic of a rooikat to feast your eyes on. This feline was spotted on the urban fringe of Hout Bay less than two weeks ago. Finally, we have two articles with slideshows showcasing what MCSA Cape Town members get up to on their midweek meets. Our newsletter advertisements let you know what mountain-related products and services are on offer, while raising much-needed revenue for the club – so, do support our advertisers. Some of them offer great discounts to club members, but remember – no card, no discount. Want to advertise here? Please direct all queries and bookings to our office manager at 021 465 3412 on weekdays between 10h00 and 14h00, or write to mcsacapetown@iafrica.com. If you have any compliments or complaints simply reply to this email. The deadline for submissions for next month's Mountain Ears is 22 April 2013. Have a wonderful Easter long weekend and if you are going away, please drive safely. Enjoy. Jenni Fitzell

What's On: 18 March - 31 March 2013

2013/03/18
 Looking for something to do this Thursday? How about getting your climbing gear or walking pole out and becoming part of the team for this year's Table Mountain Clean-Up. Some of you will remember the great success we had at the Table Mountain Cleanup (TM Cleanup) last year, well we are doing it again! All volunteers will get free return tickets to go up in the cable car, so go up, clean up and then, after patting yourself on the back, decide what to do after lunch. All volunteers need to register, so please read on for further details. Have a wonderful week. Jenni

What's On: 11 - 23 March 2013

2013/03/11
 Here is your weekly snapshot of What's On in the mountains. Please note that the date of the outreach climbing meet has moved to the morning of Saturday 23rd March. Richard Street found a Cape Storm hat on Diagonal route on 28 Feb 2013. To reconnect with your headgear please contact him on 072 7864 935. The Easter Bouldering Festival is almost upon us. Read on for further details. Safety on Table Mountain is a concern for all of us. See below for highlights of the meeting held held at the clubhouse and updates. Martin Martin Hutton-Squire kindly sent us two incredible pics reflecting exactly how Breekkrants looks now after the fire. Changing times mean changing dates. The advent of the electronic Calendar means that Meets can be added and changed where necessary due to all sorts of unforeseen circumstances. What's On is always correct at the time of 'going to press' but in order to make sure that you have the most up to date information we suggest that you check the Calendar, particularly in respect to the second week of meets published in the What's On. Happy hiking. Jenni

Circular Nr 645 incl AGM agenda, Financials, Club Meets April - June 2013 & Mountain Ears Digest March 2013

2013/03/05
 Please note that the Annual General Meeting of the Cape Town Section of the MCSA will take place on Wednesday, 27 March 2013, at 7.30 pm for 8pm. Refreshments will be served after the meeting. Please note that the AGM is open to members only. It's YOUR club, please try to attend.

Mountain Ears March 2013 incorporating What's On: 4 - 17 March 2013

2013/03/04
 In this edition we let you know What's On for the next two weeks and report back on a kloofing trip down Visgat led by Robin Brown. There is a call out for volunteers to help with updating The Properties Handboook. We feature the 2013 MCSA Supertramp Award winner, Duncan Fraser and his climbing partner, Leo le Roux and introduce eCrag - the Eastern Cederberg Rock Art Group. Flowers of the month, Chris Walker's perennial favourite, blooms this month and Ezan Wilson shares a heartwarming story that we can all relate to. In International news, South Africans are to be made welcome in Chamonix later on this year when the Chamonix Mountain Festival is held, the UIAA February newsletter makes interesting reading, there are details of a joint MCSA / UIAA training course to be held in Magaliesberg and another update on the second wave of via ferrata recalls within six months. Now if that doesn't whet your appetite, nothing will! Please note: Our newsletter advertisements let you know what mountain-related products and services are on offer, while raising much-needed revenue for the club – so, do support our advertisers. Some of them offer great discounts to club members, but remember – no card, no discount. Want to advertise here? Please direct all queries and bookings to our office manager at 021 465 3412 on weekdays between 10h00 and 14h00, or write to mcsacapetown@iafrica.com. The deadline for the next edition of Mountain Ears is 18th March. Have a fabulous mountain March. Jenni Fitzell

What's On: 25 February - 9 March 2013

2013/02/25
 There is quite a bit of info in this week's What's On so please do take the trouble to read further. Please note that Valken "D" which was on the calendar for 28 Feb has been postponed as Brian has an injured ligament. It will be reinserted later. Also, Booking for Krom River Peak on 21st March has to be done by 11th March with a valid Wildcard number. Martin Hutton-Squire alerts us to the fact that a fire broke out in the Breekkrants area last week end & again earlier in this week and has bunt down the valley from west to east although the exact extent of the fire is unknown. Also, another fire started early on Saturday morning in the Slanghoek area which might possibly have affected the Springstygbeugel Property. Geoff Dalglish writes that a friend of his left her diamond stud earrings in the TM hut last weekend. One has been found (swept out the door!), but the other is still missing. If anyone should spot it please contact Geoff on geoff.dalglish@findhorn.org or 082 990 1032. The MCSA is leading an outreach climb to Lakeside Pinnacle on Saturday 16th March. Volunteers with spare gear and knowledge of top-rope belaying are needed to help belay kids and teach them the basics of rope climbing and abseiling. We are hoping to expose these kids to the endless opportunities the outdoors have to offer and find the next Adam Ondra in Khayelitsha. To sign up please email Mikhaela Levitas: levitasmikhaela@gmail.com Nightjartravel.com is running an Adventurer of the Year award and Kai Fitchen is their featured adventurer today. Visit http://www.nightjartravel.com/magazine/adventurer-2013 to support this young man whose passion and achievements are truly impressive. He is a shining example of how Mike Horn's Young Explorers' Programme is producing ambassadors. Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 18 February - 3 March 2013

2013/02/18
 Quickly, if you haven't already, take advantage of the balmy weather and go up to the Aquaduct area to see the beautiful Disa Uniflora, pride of Table Mountain and emblem of our Mountain Club, in all its glory. There are no fewer than four meet reports with pics in this issue of What's On. Take the time to read them and see what your club is doing for you! Anyone up for a strenuous 5-day hike on the Drakensberg Escarpment next week? See below for details. Last Monday John Wilson found a pair of Readwell spectacles on the Orange Kloof ring road about two kilometres from Constantia Nek. The lenses are scratched. If they belong to you and you would like them back please contact John at wlsn@telkomsa.net. Have a fun week. Jenni

What's On: 12 - 24 February 2013

2013/02/11
 Thandi Davies and friends are doing the Otter trail this week, from the 14th - 18th, and have two spaces left on their trip. They are a bunch of 30-somethings, and are looking for people of similar age to join them. If you're interested please contact Thandi on 0832629778. An exhibition entitled "Nepal Vision" will be opened by Dr. Roger Melvill at 6.30 p.m. on 14 Feb at ‘ The Studio’ 171 Main Rd, Kalk Bay. The exhibition is is a result of the artist trekking the Annapurna Circuit and will run from 14-27 Feb. See www.nolamuller.com for a website update and a sneak preview of some of the inspirations that Nola Muller has painted since walking in the Himalayas. Happy hiking. Jenni

Crime on Table Mountain - Important meeting to address issues

2013/02/06
 A public meeting has been organised for the Wednesday Evening, 13th February (6pm for 6.30pm) at the MCSA Club to discuss the current spate of muggings in the Table Mountain National Park. The intention is to ask TMNP management to provide an overview of their crime fighting strategy for 2013 and to explain specifically what they have in mind for the two hotspot areas, namely Rhodes Estate / Memorial and the Sandy Bay / Karbonkelberg area. Once this is understood by everyone the plan is to open the floor to ideas and suggestions and more specifically to ascertaining the level of willingness of TMNP to engage with mountain users who are concerned and who are expressing a willingness to assist the park in various ways. Please try to attend, especially if the situation is of concern to you and if you have an idea of how we may engage and assist the park. For further info. please contact Andre van Schalkwyk of the Table Mountain Safety Action Group on 082 568 6562. MCSA Hiking Cape Town TableMTB Table Mountain Watch Hikers Network

What's On: 4 - 16 February 2013

2013/02/04
 Sad news. Jock Ritchie passed away on 4 July 2012. A memorial service will be held on 23 February 2013 at 10 am at the Pinelands Presbyterian Church. Please confirm your attendance to Jock’s daughter, Susan Wridgway either by e-mail (sajwcomworld@gmail.com) or sms to her cell – 084 870 2416 – as she is deaf. Jacqui Bräunlich is selling her brand new (size UK 5.5, EUR 39) Montrail Torre GTX Hiking Boots because they don't fit! These are top of the range, worn only once. Price R950. If you're interested please contact Jacqui on 83 564 6179, or email: bjacqui@global.co.za Happy Hiking. Jenni

Mountain Ears February 2013 incorporating What's On: 28 Jan - 9 Feb 2013

2013/01/28
 In this issue: Chris Walker's Flowers of the Month continue to delight members, a comprehensive explanation from SANParks regarding which Wild Card will suit you and more on the Via Ferrata accident of last year. The application forms for the National Camp 2013, to be hosted by the South Cape Section, are available from the Editor. Should you wish to be mailed the docs please reply to this mail with National Camp 2013 in the subject line. Our newsletter advertisements let you know what mountain-related products and services are on offer, while raising much-needed revenue for the club – so, do support our advertisers. Some of them offer great discounts to club members, but remember – no card, no discount. Want to advertise here? Please direct all queries and bookings to our office manager at 021 465 3412 on weekdays between 10h00 and 14h00, or write to mcsacapetown@iafrica.com. Should you wish to contribute or castigate, simply reply to this mail. The deadline for the next issue will be 18 February 2013. The mountains are gorgeous at this time of year. Savour the summer. Jenni Fitzell

What's On: 22 Jan - 2 Feb 2013

2013/01/21
 The final update for the 2013 National Meet from South Cape Section, as well as the original application form are available. To obtain a copy of these documents, please reply to this email with 2013 National Meet in the subject line. Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 14 - 27 January 2013

2013/01/14
 After a magic festive season where the weather outshone itself, it's back to normal for most from today. Our calendar is filling up quickly so don't miss out on What's On in the mountains. Please note that the Vlakkenberg hike on Tuesday 15 January is back on the list with a few contact changes. See below for further details. Our Honorary Librarian, Ineke Mosely, has noticed that a book has disappeared from the MCSA library at the clubhouse and is appealing for its rapid return. The book is called Mountaineering in Antarctica by Damien Gildean. It was purchased in June last year and was borrowed and returned once. It has since disappeared into thin air! If anyone has seen this book (it does not have a dust cover on it - but it is a 'coffee table' type book with beautiful photographs), please ensure that it is returned to the Library immediately. Acrobranch Adventure Park, located in the Southern Suburbs is currently looking for a Park Manager in Cape Town. Interested members who wish to apply can send their motivation letter and CV to Valerie at jobs@acrobranch.co.za. Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 7 - 20 January 2013

2013/01/07
 Please note that Jos de Gendt's meet planned for Tuesday, January 15 on Vlakkenberg has been postponed until further notice as Jos has hurt his leg while hacking. Please note that there will be a report back on the recent Cederberg fire in next week's What's On. Should anyone be planning a trip to that area and like to see the report sooner than next Monday, please contact the Editor simply by replying to this email. Happy hiking. Jenni

Mountain Ears January 2013 incorporating What's On: 31 Dec 2012 - 12 Jan 2013

2012/12/31
 In this holiday issue of Mountain Ears you are invited to peruse the UIAA newsletter which has items of interest for mountaineers worldwide, Chris Walker highlights the beautiful summer flora grandstanding on the mountain at the moment, read how the MCSA Memorial dial at Maclear's Beacon got its repair job, and the latest info on the pros and cons of using Diamox at altitude, as well as a trail offer to explore Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail in May 2013. Subjects are wanted for altitude research: following the success of the Caudwell Xtreme Everest research expedition in 2007 the research continues with an indepth study on the trek to Everest Base Camp in 2013. The researchers are particularly interested in mountaineering twins. For details see: http://www.xtreme-everest.co.uk/article.php?newsid=790 or contact Dr David Hillebrandt on hillebrandt@freenetname.co.uk or phone him in Devon, England on 00 44 (0)1409 253814. Closer to home, Che Roberts wrote to us saying "having got so much from the mountain club I would like to offer this to all mountain club members in return:- I am now currently running a resort right at the beginning of the Alexandria trail, a stunning 2 day trail which runs though addo national park and is located 100km north of PE. The trail runs along the beach and through the dune field to a national park overnight hut before heading though the forest and back to the national park office. I would be quite happy to offer free camping/dorms for folks that would like to spend an extra night at the start of the trail before heading off across the sand. All that I ask is if you could please let know a few days in advance and during peak season (christmas to new year and easter) only camping might be available." Contact Che for more details on this generous offer on cheroberts@inbox.com Hentie Barnard ( MCSA?) from the Eastern Cape has expressed an interest in the "White Disa " saga recently in the MCSA, Cape, news columns. He would dearly love to be in contact with anyone hoping to find / having found a white disa, reputedly occurring once every 33 years in Baviaanskloof off Bainskloof on 16 Dec. He can be contacted at telephone no. 083 741 0057. Any takers? Our newsletter advertisements let you know what mountain-related products and services are on offer, while raising much-needed revenue for the club – so, do support our advertisers. Some of them offer great discounts to club members, but remember – no card, no discount. Want to advertise here? Please direct all queries and bookings to our office manager at 021 465 3412 on weekdays between 10h00 and 14h00, or write to mcsacapetown@iafrica.com. To comment on or castigate items relating to Mountain Ears or the weekly What's On, please simply reply to this email. The deadline for submissions for next month's Mountain Ears is 21 January. Have a wonderful New Year! Jenni

What's On: 24 December 2012 - 5 January 2013 and Cederberg fire alert

2012/12/24
 A fire has been raging in the Cederberg this weekend. Martin Hutton-Squire, MCSA's Breekkrants Convenor has this morning spoken to a Ranger at Cape Nature’s Algeria office, who had this to say: “Members should note that parts of the Central Cedarberg have been closed due to a fire this week end in the Dwarsrivier and Kromrivier area. While Cape Nature reported at 08h30 today 24/12/12, that the fire is out in the Krom- & Dwarsrivier areas, it continues to burn to the north and east of Sneeuwberg, and they are uncertain as to the status of the fire in the Disa Pools area of the upper Kromrivier. As at Sunday 23/12 evening, the fire had not extended into the Club’s Breekkrants property, however hikers should confirm with Cape Nature at either Matjiesrivier (0274829922) or at the Algeria office (0274822403) as to the fire status before entering any of these areas. As the bush in the eastern / Kromrivier area of the Breekkrans is very thick and well grown, a fire in this area would be a serious danger to hikers.” Also, news just in from the UIAA: Wild Country has recalled a batch of Helium karabiners. Details here: http://safety.theuiaa.org/front/product_detail_page_recall.php?id=57&x Please remember that the office will be closed for 4 days from 27 December 2012 until 2 January 2013, re-opening on 3 January 2013. Be careful out there! Jenni

What's On: 24 December 2012 - 5 January 2013

2012/12/24
 Please note that the office will be closed for 4 days from 27 December 2012 until 2 January 2013, re-opening on 3 January 2013. Have a wonderful, peaceful and happy Christmas. Jenni

What's On: 17 - 30 December 2012

2012/12/17
 Good news is that there are still places available for the 2013 National Meet hence the closing date has been extended to 31 January 2013. For the day hikes: you will be able to climb a peak, negotiate a rugged bit of coast line, do the skyline route with stunning views, go kloofing, climb in the Southern Outeniquas to awe inspiring views and end the week with the ever popular Robberg Peninsula. Do them all if you are fit enough but there are a range of hikes from easy to demanding to choose from and, of course, the 5 day Outeniqua and 2 day Harkerville trails. See the original documentation distributed. Enquiries: hannadutoit@telkomsa.net A final update with more detail will issued about the middle of January 2013. There is a further call for your submissions to the journal editing team : if you have a good story to tell, worth recording, please forward to journal editor at jpaterson@iburst.co.za. The deadline for submissions is 31 January 2013. Please see http://cen.mcsa.org.za/home/journal for Guidelines / Style Sheet and Photo Template. There is some sad news from France, where we've received word that Maurice Herzog has passed away at the ripe old age of 93. If his name is familiar, it is because he was the first man, along with climbing partner Louis Lachenal, to successfully summit an 8000 meter peak. Herzog and Lachenal climbed their way into the history books back on June 3, 1950 when they made the first successful attempt up Annapurna, the tenth highest peak in the world at 8091 meters (26,545 ft). Even more remarkable, considering the time, they actually made the ascent without the use of supplemental oxygen. The climb was not an easy one by any stretch of the imagination however, as the summit team, along with two companions, spend a night camped out in a crevasse on the descent. They had one sleeping bag between the four men and as a result, they suffered severe frostbite. Herzog himself had lost his gloves on the way to the summit and ended up having all of his toes and several fingers amputated in the field. Ironically, Annapurna was the first of the 8000 meter peaks to be summited, but is now considered to be amongst the most challenging of those 14 mountains to climb. It wouldn't be successfully conquered again until 1970. After his harrowing climb, Herzog published a book about the adventure entitled Annapurna: The First Conquest of an 8000-Meter Peak, which has gone on to be one of the best selling mountaineering books of all time. The book has been translated into 40 languages and has sold over 12 million copes across the globe, inspiring generations of mountaineers that followed. He also served as the Commissioner of Youth and Sport in France and was the mayor of Chamonix from 1968-1977. A legend of the mountaineering world has passed but his legacy will certainly live on. (Source: Adventure Blog) Happy holidays. Jenni

What's On: 10 - 22 December 2012 plus ME Digest 2012, Circular Nr 644 Xmas issue & Meets Jan-Mar 2013

2012/12/10
 It's holiday time for mostly everyone, or certainly feels like it! Here is your to-do list of adventures for the week. Tuesday 11 December is International Mountain Day and MCSA Cape Town Section has organised a meet for just about every mountaineering discipline so if you are able, please get out there and support these events. If you're embarking on a road-trip, please take care. Happy International Mountain Day for tomorrow! Jenni

What's On: 3 - 15 December 2012

2012/12/03
 Thanks to Elizabeth Kelly who was Editor for November and let us Mountain Ears know What was On last month. Thanks also to Mike Scott who works tirelessly behind the scenes putting together all the meet-related articles and slideshows every month. A heads-up that next Tuesday, 11 December is International Mountain Day and to celebrate the mountain club will be throwing a MASSIVE bash (biggest on record) at the club house. See below for further info. There is a further call for contributions for the 2012 Journal. The updated Guidelines, StyleSheet and Photo Template have been uploaded to the MCSA national website, and can be found on: http://cen.mcsa.org.za/home/journal Deadline for submissions is 31 January 2013. The Journal Editing Team look forward to receiving your contributions. Richmond MacIntyre is looking for information on previous excursions into the Wakhan corridor area of northeastern Afghanistan. He also asks if anyone is interested in obtaining original A4 size photographs of the Scott's 1911 - 1913 Antarctic expedition? Please respond to Richmond MacIntyre at ulwazi@ulwazisa.co.za Please remember that our newsletter advertisements let you know what mountain-related products and services are on offer, while raising much-needed revenue for the club – so, do support our advertisers. Some of them offer great discounts to club members, but remember – no card, no discount. Want to advertise here? Please direct all queries and bookings to our office manager at 021 465 3412 on weekdays between 10h00 and 14h00, or write to mcsacapetown@iafrica.com. Finally, find us on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/MountainClubOfSouthAfrica?fref=ts, where I'm sure you'll like us a lot! Happy hiking. Jenni

Mountain Ears December 2012 incorporating What's On 26 Nov - 9 Dec 2012

2012/11/26
 First, some good news: The campsite at Kliphuis in the Northern Cedarberg finally opened on 15th November after many years of waiting. The camp superintendent Abe is apparently knowledgeable, informative and very helpful. He can issue permits for camping, hiking and bouldering. Our newsletter advertisements let you know what mountain-related products and services are on offer, while raising much-needed revenue for the club – so, do support our advertisers. Some of them offer great discounts to club members, but remember – no card, no discount. Want to advertise here? Please direct all queries and bookings to our office manager at 021 465 3412 on weekdays between 10h00 and 14h00, or write to mcsacapetown@iafrica.com. Jenni Fitzel will be your editor for December. You can make contributions or comment by replying to this email. Thanks Elizabeth

What’s On: 19 Nov - 2 Dec 2012

2012/11/19
 Find everything you need to know about what to do with the club this week, and read up on what other members have been up to. Remember to reply to this email if you want to send contributions or complaints. Enjoy the sunshine Elizabeth

Updated What's On: 17 - 22 November

2012/11/13
 Some events were left off the last What's On in error, so please see what is on this weekend and early next week to ensure you don't miss anything before the next newsletter. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. Thanks Elizabeth

What’s On: 12-17 November 2012

2012/11/12
 Due to late cancellations, there are TWO PLACES available on the scheduled HARKERVILLE TRAIL (near Knysna) on the weekend 16-18 November. Please contact Dave Wolfaardt (David@WeDrive.co.za) for more info. You can also read below what has been happening this week and what meets you can join in the following week. Thanks Elizabeth

What's On: 5-13 Nov 2012

2012/11/05
 It is starting to feel like Summer is really here at last and there is plenty to do in our mountains to take advantage of the long, warm days. This week's What's On lists all the club activities you can join this week and next. There is also an early notice for the Happy Valley Trail happening on Tuesday 20 November. Members wishing to book must phone Suzanne Wilson-Smith at 021 7822545 or 083 3033417 before 9th November and provide Wild Card number or pay R40 for permit. Remember that you can simply reply to this email to send contributions or complaints. Until next week, Elizabeth

What’s On: 5–13 November 2012

2012/11/05
 It is starting to feel like Summer is really here at last and there is plenty to do in our mountains to take advantage of the long, warm days. This week's What's On lists all the club activities you can join this week and next. There is also an early notice for the Happy Valley Trail happening on Tuesday 20 November. Members wishing to book must phone Suzanne Wilson-Smith at 021 7822545 or 083 3033417 before 9th November and provide Wild Card number or pay R40 for permit. Remember that you can simply reply to this email to send contributions or complaints. Until next week, Elizabeth

Mountain Ears: November 2012 incorporating What's On: 30 October - 16 November 2012

2012/10/29
 Here is your new look weekly update, with advertisements. These ads are a very important way of letting you know what is out there and available in terms of gear, new products etc. as well as garnering much needed extra revenue for the club, so please support our advertisers, many of whom offer great discounts to club members, but remember – no card, no discount. Please direct all advertising queries and bookings to our office manager at 021 465 3412 on weekdays between 10h00 and 14h00, or write to mcsacapetown@iafrica.com In this issue: Get your Cederberg on in November. Is there something that you've always meant to do in this area and never got around to? Now's your chance. MCSA has it covered mid-month. Johan Hauser is leading a mid-week meet (Wed - Fri) from 14 - 16 November and has plans for Wolfberg Arch via the Rif, Wolfberg itself and Heiveld Arch. Bookings open today. See What's On for more details. Then MCSA in conjunction with MSC will be hosting an epic Cederberg Extravaganza week from 16 - 22 November. Plans include day hikes and climbs and multi-day hikes and climbs. No stone will be left unclimbed! Read on for more details. This promises to be the best meet of the year. Chris Walker's popular flowers of the month and November flower walk of the month feature summer's full mountain bouquet as usual. There is a fantastic offer of service from a long-standing member of the MCSA who is based in Europe to help with Alpine trip planning, budgets etc. So if you're planning a trip to the Alps, contact Peter Kaiser first. Details below. A free crag day will be taking place on 17th and 24th November at Silvermine. Read on for more info. James Irving, a very popular meet leader of the Cape Town section, joins an elite group of CT members who have summited Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe. See below for an interview with James and pics of this far-away mountain. Our very own remarkable Wally Struthers features this month as Mike Scott asks the question, could he be the oldest living Scouter in South Africa? Richard Ferguson deserves a special mention for his take on what the Flying Rooster story in last month's ME was all about. Read his version below. By a weird coincidence, the cave in the UK, Gaping Gill, all about which the Flying Rooster story was, is going to be featured in a dvd screening at the Clubhouse on 16th November at the Friday social. And lots more... There are still two places available for the November First Aid course, please let Rose know soonest if you're interested. Dates: Tuesday 13th and Thursday 15th November, 18.00 - 21.00 at the Clubhouse, R200, members and prospective members. Another reminder that the MCSA Annual Dinner, hosted by the Johannesburg Section will be held on 10 November 2012, at the Country Club Johannesburg, Auckland Park @ R200.00 pp. To book contact Uschi 011 8071310 admin@jhb.mcsa.org.za Dress smart. Welcoming drink, wine on the tables and a few spot prizes. Please send newsletter-related queries, feedback and contributions to mcsa.connect@gmail.com or just reply to this email. See you in the Cederberg. Jenni

What's On: 22 October - 2 November 2012

2012/10/22
 Win 2 free tickets to the Banff film festival; see below for details. Also an exciting mid month climbing feature! See you at the clubhouse tomorrow night [Tuesday 23rd] to watch the Arctic dreams of Clinton Martinengo, Steve Bradshow, Andrew Porter and Dave Glass who sailed away, with Captain Reverend Bob, in a 30ft yacht from Scotland to Alaska, climbing several first ascents on major big walls as they went. Read on more for info. Please note the MCSA annual dinner, hosted by Johannesburg Section, will be held on 10 November 2012, at the Country Club Johannesburg, Auckland Park. Cost is R200.00 per person. To book please contact Uschi 011 807 1310 or admin@jhb.mcsa.org.za Dress smart. Welcoming drink and wine on the tables plus a few spot prizes will be provided. Have fun. Jenni

What's On: 15 - 26 October 2012

2012/10/15
 Here is your weekly top-up of things to do, places to go, people to see. Also, Urs Huber organised a leader's training weekend, which took place last weekend and was a rip-roaring success. Highlights of the weekend included Rik de Dekker's insights into Search & Rescue and Urs' rendition of Laurentzia! Mikhaela Levitas took the SAEP Outreach kids rock climbing at the beginning of the month at the Lakeside Pinnacle and they loved it. Read on to find out who was there and how it happened. Enjoy. Jenni

What's On: 8 - 21 October 2012

2012/10/08
 Please note: The Kromriverhut is fully booked over weekends as from 19 October 2012 until the last weekend in January 2013. There is a vacancy on the Whale Trail from 10-15 Oct 2012. If anyone is interested could they contact Robbie Dallas-Orr; robbie@promoconcepts.co.za.

What's On 24 September - 7 October 2012

2012/09/24
 Who's poaching what from our mountains, and why? Read the article below for details of a Heritage Day presentation to be held today. Rose would like to remind everyone of the Half-Yearly Meeting of Members which is on 28 September 2012 at the clubhouse. Attend and have your say. It's your club. There are still a few places left, (not many!), for the Evening First Aid course on 13 and 15 November. So if you're thinking about it please don't delay, get in touch with Rose today. In case you're wondering, the Saturday course is full. Paul Cluver's mountain hiking trail for guided hikes on the first weekend of every month will start on October 6=7. Hiking is free, but must be booked in advance via email info@cluver.com Most of the hikes will be lead by Dr. Cluver himself and will take about 2 to4 hours depending on level of fitness of hikers. There will be a glass of wine at the end for all hikers! (Featured wine of the month). Happy Heritage Day. Jenni

Mountain Ears: October 2012, including What's On: 2 - 12 October 2012

2012/10/01
 A bumper edition of ME awaits both armchair climbers and rock jocks. Firstly, check out what's on this week and don't forget the first-Tuesday social, tomorrow pm. Come and train on the wall beforehand. Scrutinise sensational moves from international climbers this month. The Reel Rock tour is coming to Cape Town [see you at City Rock on Wednesday pm] and Banff is back from 26th October. Book your spot now! After looking at fabulous pics from previous meets, move on to check out what our always-beautiful fynbos is wearing this month and enjoy Chris Walker's special October flower walk. Chris has written a letter directing TM users to be on the lookout for the destruction of fynbos and to report any incidences immediately. See his letter: Demise of our fynbos. Gill Weinberg shares her holiday in the Uttarankhand Himalayan foothills with us. This trek is ideal for those who want to see high mountains but enjoy trekking at lower altitudes. See Gill's awesome pics of Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot and others and watch this space for news of her upcoming slideshow talk at a Friday social. Then, get up off your armchair and head to Waterval Boven - for guide, see http://www.climb.co.za/wiki/index.php?title=Waterval_Boven, - this guide covers everything!. W-B is one of South Africa's premier spots for sport climbing. It is probably the most developed sport climbing area in the county with about 600 routes in a most beautiful setting. There are hundreds of excellent quality sport routes on orange sandstone. Please email the Editor if you are interested in Snake ID and information. In reply I will send you a downloadable pdf, which is an informative, comprehensive guide, invaluable to hike leaders and other users of the mountain. Special mention prize to anyone who can tell the Editor what the title in the "Flying Rooster" article refers to. To submit guesses simply reply to this email. So much to do, so little time... What are you waiting for? Jenni

What's On: 17 - 29 September 2012

2012/09/17
 Here it is - your weekly calendar. Read on to find out what you're fit for in the next two weeks and find out why Don Jepson is prepared to lead his meet whatever the weather! If anyone is heading up Du Toit's peak this week, please keep an eye out for Sandy Macdonald's camera on your way down. Should you wish to communicate with the Editor, please reply to this email and please go to the online calendar at http://mcsacapetown.co.za/calendar to view the latest updates. Enjoy, Jenni.

What's On: 10 - 21 September 2012

2012/09/10
 Urs Huber is organising a training weekend for leaders and potential leaders on 6-7 October 2012. The final booking date is this Wednesday 12 September so please connect with Urs as soon as possible. If the weekend is not fully booked (15 people) by the deadline, a new date will be set for next year. For more details please see the article in this newsletter. Please note that there is a new procedure for Orange Kloof permits as Table Mountain National Park offices have moved from Rhodes Memorial (Mount Pleasant) to Kloofnek, No 8 Signal Hill Road. Should you wish to obtain a permit please telephone Beulah Charles at the Kloofnek office on 021 422 1601 (not e-mail). Permits can then be collected at the Kloofnek office between 08h00 and 15h00 Monday to Friday, or faxed or emailed to you by Beulah upon request. If you would like to get in touch with the Editor then please feel free to reply to this email. All suggestions are welcome! Please remember to check the online calendar on the MCSA website for the very latest news about What's On. Enjoy. Jenni Fitzell

Mountain Ears: September 2012, What's On: 4 - 21 September 2012, Circular 643 & ME Digest

2012/09/03
 We're in the home straight, to borrow a phrase overused by sportscasters everywhere, particularly during the recent Olympic games. Winter has come and (almost) gone and we're looking forward to great outdoor adventures in the coming months. This September issue of ME is filled with interesting news and important updates including the latest access info regarding Jan du Toit's kloof and further details about this year's minicamp, which is hosted by the Magaliesberg Section and will be held in Waterval Boven. MCSA Cape Town will be hosting a First Aid Course with specific focus on mountain first aid. Secure your place early. Internationally, there is a warning story of gear failure on a Via Ferrata and more info about which equipment to steer clear of. From these incidents and accidents we relax into Chris Walker's beloved flowers of the month and accompany Chris on one of my favourite strolls: a spring flower walk above Kalk Bay, complete with magnificent photographs. Grab the chance to see gorgeous flowering bulbs (best in the first spring after a fire) at Steenboksberg on the weekend 8-9 September and experience the feel-good factor while pulling out young hakea seedlings to de-alienate your club property. The hike leaders have made the meet flexible so you can go for the whole weekend, or just Saturday 8th or just Sunday 9th September. See What's On for more details. You will also find downloadable copies in pdf and Word format of the ME Digest, Circular 643, and the Quarterly Meets & Socials. A reminder of the half yearly General Meeting at the Club on Friday 28th at 7:30 for 8:00 pm. It's your chance to have your say. Come to find out what's been happening in YOUR club. Read on to discover why there is bafflement about Brandenburg, see the latest pic of the Chapman's Peak toll plaza in progress and submit your recommendations if you know what's what in the ebook, solar charger sphere. Finally, a telescopic walking pole was found in Jonkershoek about 3 weeks ago. If you think it could be yours contact Mark on 083 597 4117. Please remember that you only need reply to this email should you want to comment or castigate. The deadline for next month's issue is 20th September. Who will be editing it will be a surprise! Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 27 August - 7 September 2012

2012/08/27
 If anyone is visiting the Tankwa Karoo park soon, please ask at the Reception office there if you can collect the Torch that Meg Wilding left there when she stayed at the Park recently. If you are able to collect Meg’s Torch for her, please leave it at the MCSA office. Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 20 - 31 August 2012

2012/08/20
 With the weather being what it is at the moment, now is the time to check out what MCSA has in the way of branded clothing. You can gear up in a MCSA branded warm fleece and hat to brave the cold weather outside. Speak nicely to Rose in the office. Mikhaela Levitas is appealing to MCSA members who use Hoare Hut, or have used it in the past and who have some expertise to impart, to go up on the weekend of 7th - 9th September to help build the new bog! You can address any queries to levitasmikhaela@gmail.com Be advised that there is one place available for the Whale Trail starting 28th August 2012. Please contact Marie at petal@eject.co.za or 082 441 4330 should you be interested. Please remember to check the on-line calendar on our website for updates on changes or additions to meets. Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 13 - 24 August 2012

2012/08/13
 Here is your insight into What's (supposed to be) on in the mountains for this week. With the winter weather we've been experiencing, it is a wonder that any of us managed to get out at all! There are no meet reports from last week. Let's hope that this week sees the return of warm winter sunshine. Please remember to check the online calendar for the latest updates. Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 6 - 18 August 2012

2012/08/06
 Climbers, don't miss this first Tuesday - it's full of Himalayan fun and starts at 6pm. More about what's happening tomorrow evening in the article below. Simon Larsen reminds the rock fraternity that there is a rock rally at Kleinmond as part of the Gravity festival on Sat 18th August. A security company based in the Tokai forest area warns that cylists using this area may want to be alert to any suspicious characters operating in the area. For further details, read on. Also, for your reading pleasure we are thrilled to include two great reports back from a midweek meet and a work meet - with pics. Happy Hiking! Jenni

What's On: 30 July - 10 August 2012

2012/07/30
 Several of our members have been taking advantage of the drier weather and this week's What's On includes a few meet reports of their activities. Please take a look at the other hikes that are taking place and get in touch with the hike leader if you are interested to join in. There's also a beginner's sport climbing meet coming up so if you've always wanted to try it out then now is the perfect opportunity! Happy hiking, Greg NOTICES: 1. Honorary Treasurer Lester Coelen has been serving on various Mountain Club committees since 1971 and for a number of years has been our Honorary Treasurer. He has finally decided to step down from his positions on Gencom & Cencom with effect from April 2013. He has kindly volunteered to become our Hon Auditor thereafter. We are all indebted to Lester for the years of selfless service that he has provided. We now need to find a successor so if you are interested in becoming our new Hon Treasurer please contact Lester to find out exactly what the job entails and if you are still interested please contact Brian Lambourne or Daniel Reinecke. 2. MCSA Branded clothing A reminder that the Club stocks MCSA branded Fleece Jackets T- Shirts, and hats. All good quality garments at competitive prices. If you need some more gear pop in and see Rose.

Mountain Ears: August 2012

2012/08/01
 This issue of Mountain Ears has something for everybody from a moving letter from one of our Outreach groups to an article with pics about what the ARF (Anchor Replacement Fund) volunteers actually do and what the Montague Bolting fund is all about. After many years, our Search and Rescue convenorhship is also changing. Read about who is now going to be doing what. In International news, there is an article about whether overcrowding in the Alps is leading to accidents and the Kathmandu International Mountain film festival is soliciting mountain movies from us. So settle back with your cup of coffee or chai and enjoy a good read before lacing up your boots and getting out there. Please remember you can always contact us at Mountain Ears simply by replying to this email. Next month's edition will see a new Editor in the person of Robert Breyer. The deadline for submissions is Friday 24th August 2012. Happy hiking. Jenni NOTICES: 1. Honorary Treasurer Lester Coelen has been serving on various Mountain Club committees since 1971 and for a number of years has been our Honorary Treasurer. He has finally decided to step down from his positions on Gencom & Cencom with effect from April 2013. He has kindly volunteered to become our Honorary Auditor thereafter. We are all indebted to Lester for the years of selfless service that he has provided. We now need to find a successor so if you are interested in becoming our new Honorary Treasurer please contact Lester to find out exactly what the job entails and if you are still interested please inform Brian Lambourne or Daniel Reinecke. 2. MCSA Branded clothing A reminder that the Club stocks MCSA branded Fleece Jackets T- Shirts, and hats. All are good quality garments at competitive prices. If you need some more gear pop in and see Rose.

What's On: 23 July - 31 July 2012

2012/07/23
 I hope you were able to take advantage of the few rainless days last week to fit in some walking! Please take a look at this week's schedule for the upcoming hikes meets. Keep warm and dry, Greg NOTICES: 1. Honorary Treasurer Lester Coelen has been serving on various Mountain Club committees since 1971 and for a number of years has been our Honorary Treasurer. He has finally decided to step down from his positions on Gencom & Cencom with effect from April 2013. He has kindly volunteered to become our Honorary Auditor thereafter. We are all indebted to Lester for the years of selfless service that he has provided. We now need to find a successor so if you are interested in becoming our new Honorary Treasurer please contact Lester to find out exactly what the job entails and if you are still interested please inform Brian Lambourne or Daniel Reinecke. 2. MCSA Branded clothing A reminder that the Club stocks MCSA branded Fleece Jackets T- Shirts, and hats. All are good quality garments at competitive prices. If you need some more gear pop in and see Rose.

What's On: 16 - 26 July 2012

2012/07/16
 Welcome to another chilled edition of the weekly What's On! I hope you have managed to find the opportunity to fit in some hiking between the storm fronts which have swept over the Cape over the past week. If you have braved the weather, our editors would love to know about your mountaineering escapades. You can send your photos and meet reports to Mike Scott. Please take a look at this week's meets. There is plenty of snow around many of the peaks now so remember to wrap warmly if you are venturing forth. Happy trekking! Greg

What's On: 9 - 22 July 2012

2012/07/09
 Greetings after an exceptionally wet and wintery weekend. In case you were not able to make good on your planned hiking commitments, please take a look at this week's calendar to see what is happening on the mountain soon. Let's hope the weather lightens and gives us all a chance to stretch our limbs. Please check the website for the latest updates to the calendar. If you would like to get in touch, just reply to this email. Take care and go prepared for the worst if you are braving the elements! Greg

Mountain Ears: July 2012 and What's On 3 - 13 July 2012

2012/07/02
 It might be mid-winter but our hardy mountaineers are up and out there in the mountains keeping warm. This edition of Mountain Ears is short and sweet so I can go back to warming my hands beside the fire! It includes the ever popular Flowers of the Month from Chris Walker, three articles on various MCSA Cape Town section meets put together by Mike Scott, an invitation to hike the Fish River Canyon, an appeal from our Anchor Replacement Fund team to help clean up the crags at Silvermine this weekend and a full calendar of what's on for the next two weeks. The team at Mountain Ears would like to welcome our newest Editor, Robert Breyer, who joins us from this month. Thanks for volunteering, Robert, we look forward to your valuable input. Please reply to this email should you have any compliments, comments or suggestions. Please also remember to check the on-line calendar on our website for the very latest news about what's on. Happy hiking! Jenni

What's On: 26 June - 7 July 2012

2012/06/25
 It's back to sunny skies later on this week so no excuse not to put on your hiking boots and get out there. Please feel free to reply to this email if you wish to get in touch with the editors and remember to check the online calendar for the latest updates. Happy hiking. Jenni

What's On: 19 - 30 June 2012

2012/06/18
 Here is what's on this week featuring Blokhuiskop on Tuesday, Left Face B on Thursday and an Outreach in Silvermine on Saturday. The Friday night social at the clubhouse showcases Clare Davies' travels in South America, including Galapagos and Patagonia. Please note that Urs Huber's Boland meet scheduled for this weekend has been postponed to August due to unavailability of the huts. We also feature feedback of three recent meets with beautiful photographs and a rousing video. Please feel free to reply to this email if you wish to get in touch with the editors and remember to check the online calendar for the latest updates. Happy Hiking. Jenni

What's On: 11 - 22 June 2012

2012/06/11
 Here is your weekly mountain update. Please feel free to reply to this email if you wish to get in touch with the editors and remember to check the online calendar for the latest updates. Please note that there is no social on Friday and the clubhouse will be closed on Friday evening because of the public holiday (Youth Day) on Saturday. Enjoy. Jenni

What's On: 1 June - 10 June

2012/06/04
 Here's this week's to-do list. Fortunately, you are not expected to grind through the whole thing. This requirement was recently relaxed. We at the MCSA now pride ourselves in our humane approach to hiking / climbing / hacking / watching really cool movies and encourage members, friends and relatives to get involved in any way they see fit. But if you are up for a challenge, we can sort you out there too. Please take a moment to scan through the planned meets. Has it been close to a decade since you last ambled around Jonkershoek? Well, you're in luck... Cape Point more your scene? Give us a call! Don't forget the Tuesday socials and the Classic Rock outings - we have a D-grade climb for you to get to grips with. Of course, if you're too busy reading the latest epic edition of Mountain Ears I totally understand! FOUND ON THURSDAY 31 MAY 2012 1 X GENTS SPORT TOP CONTACT: PHYLLIS AND IVOR AT 021 439 1090 Jenni Fitzell takes over as editor for June. Please feel free to email her with your comments, queries or personal problems. She is quite resilient. As always, please be sure to refer to the calendar on the MCSA website for the most up-to-date information on meets. To the mountains! Greg

What's On: 28 May - 5 June 2012

2012/05/28
 Now that the rain has taken a hike, why not do the same? Yes, it's that time on a Monday when your favourite outdoor newsletter gives you the low-down on the best walking to be had in Cape Town. If you're up for a trip further afield, then you can combine a hike in Greyton Nature Reserve with the festival which is taking place this weekend. There are also opportunities to get involved in conservation hacks for those with excess energy and enthusiasm. Steven Barber has asked that I mention the following change: Due to the fire at Steenboksberg, the hack scheduled for the weekend of the 2nd and 3rd of June will now take place at Waaihoeksberg instead. Please see details of the hack below. Please remember to check the website calendar for the latest updates. If you would like to get in touch with the editors then please feel free to reply to this email. All suggestions are welcome! Enjoy the climb! Greg

Mountain Ears: June 2012

2012/06/01
 Welcome to the chock-full June edition of Mountain Ears. Grab a cuppa, relax and let us take you along on a journey through bountiful fynbos via a familiar buttress or two before sweeping you further afield into the foothills of the great Balkan mountains by way of Ariège, Southern France. Yes, this month's newsletter delivers and then some! We loop back to the Cape via Chapman's Peak courtesy of Fiona Hinds who has kindly provided an update to the continuing Chappies toll road debacle. Our own Anthony Hall features along with his treatise on aspects of local and international access to privately owned mountain land. There is also an opportunity for the creative graphic artists in our midst to submit designs for the upcoming International Mountain Day. If that fails to satisfy, we include a newsletter-within-a-newsletter in the form of a link to the May 2012 UIAA online edition. Special thanks to Jenni Fitzell who, despite personal injury, has pitched in to sort out the bulk of this month's content. We wish her a speedy recovery and hope soon to see her back on the trail. If anyone has an unused epi-pen, Hedwich Tulp would appreciate your call on 083 396 5138. As always, we encourage you to correspond with our editors by replying to this email. Please remember to check the calendar on the MCSA website for the latest information on meets and other club events. See you on the mountain! Greg

What's On: 21 May - 28 May

2012/05/21
 Welcome to another early morning edition of your mountaineering weekly. Please take a look at what's on offer and get in touch with the relevant convenor who will be pleased to offer you a spot. The early bird catches the worm, and all that! Please note the following amendment to the calendar: Due to the fire at Steenboksberg, the hack scheduled for the weekend of the 2nd and 3rd of June will now take place at Waaihoeksberg instead. Camping at the cars, so no need for austerity. LOTS of hakea, so everyone welcome!!! Bookings anytime, Steven Barber (stevenjbarber@gmail.com, 0724248966, email preferred). Also, Urs has asked me to draw your attention to the following: a young white labrador was found on Table Mountain near the cable car and is likely missing an owner. If you know of anyone in search of such a dog, please contact either Fred Erasmus on 082 972 4001 or Cityvet Gardens on 021 465 4244. Please feel free to reply to this email if you wish to get in touch with the editors, and remember to check the online calendar for the latest updates. Happy hiking! Greg

What's On: 14 May - 26 May 2012

2012/05/14
 Welcome to a fresh edition of your weekly What's On! There is plenty of uphill to be had for the adventurous climber and there are several interesting talks for the less upwardly mobile or those simply in need of some respite from their ramblings. Please also have a look at the advance notice from Alec Dose regarding a planned walk in the Potsberg nature reserve at the end of the schedule. If you have any queries regarding the content of this newsletter, or if you wish to correspond with the Editors, please feel free to reply to this email. We are also currently recruiting for more editorial assistants and would love to hear from you if you would like to volunteer. Please also remember to check the online calendar for details of all club activities. Enjoy the week's walking! Greg

Mountain Ears May 2012

2012/04/30
 Short and sweet this month so we don't clog your inboxes when you return from what was I hope a great long weekend. It is also farewell from me as I have resigned from Cape Town Section as of today. As editor for this issue, it would be unethical to publish any reasons, but suffice to say the dispute has been long standing and departure not of my choosing. To those I climbed with, and to my fellow editors, my thanks and best wishes. Greg Evans will be editor for May Tony Heher

What's On, some meet reports and other news

2012/04/23
 An action packed long weekend ahead and some interesting meet reports in this issue, ranging from 11 hour epics over Jonkershoek 1st and 2nd Ridge Peaks to some strenuous propping up of the False Bay Yacht Club bar! Given the the extended weekend coming up which I am sure you will all be putting to good use, a few more general news items are also included in this issue including some interesting new research on preventing high altitude sickness, clarifying some confusion about mid-week vs weekend reports and more. Have a great long weekend Tony Heher

What's On update... and some other news

2012/04/02
 A few items slipped through the cracks in this morning's What's On, so a quick update. As always, hit reply if you wish to comment or respond on any topic. Tony Heher

Mountain Ears April 2012

2012/03/29
 Now that the days are getting a little cooler we can reflect on what a wonderful summer we have had, with seemingly endless days of hot weather and sunny bright blue skies. In this issue MCSA celebrates fifty and sixty years of membership (imagine!) of our wonderful club with the Loyalty Awards; Chris Walker delights us yet again with info and beautiful pics of two very important components of fynbos: an erica and a protea; there is an update on what's new on the on-line guide to Table Mountain: mountain-meanders, a report on a TM micro-climate project and much more. To send positive comments and compliments to the editor, simply reply to this email. (Only kidding - all contributions, positive or problematic, gratefully accepted!) Be sure to check the calendar on our website for updates to meets or socials. You can find it by copying the address mcsacapetown.co.za\calendar into your browser ... or simply click on More at the foot of every week's What's On. Your Editor for the May edition of Mountain Ears will be Tony Heher. Whatever mountain meander you decide to embark on, enjoy! Jenni Fitzell

Mountain Ears March 2012

2012/03/01
 With the sweltering heat of February behind us, several members have sent in their reports of some of the hikes that were held over the past few weeks. There's also a notice of the upcoming WC joint meet on 31 March in case you've gotten bored with the stunning scenery around Table Bay. Suffering from trail-side tunnel vision? Check out Chris Walker's informative piece on some of the Cape's unique flora species for an idea of what you may have been missing in your recent mountain rambles. There is also a fascinating article submitted by Tony Heher about the recent rock climbing contoversy in Chile sparked by two young Americans. It's riveting stuff! Please also take note of the rules governing Kirstenbosch access for MCSA members included in the article below. We welcome Jenni Fitzell as editor for March and thank her for kindly agreeing to lend her services. Be sure to check the calendar for updates to meets or socials. To send comments or suggestions to the Editor, simply reply to this email. Regards, Greg Evans

Mountain Ears February 2012

2012/02/01
 A range of news to keep you informed and amused - thank you for all the many and varied contributions. Keep them coming and keep commenting - vibrant discussion is welcome. As always, simply hit reply to contribute or comment. The deadline for the March issue of ME is 27 Feb. A warm welcome to Greg Evans who has joined the editorial team and will be editor this month. Editor "training" is now a short, informal one-on-one session, so don't be shy, just hit reply... Tony Heher

Mountain Ears January 2012

2012/01/02
 Wishing you happy hiking (or armchair hiking!) and a fulfilling 2012. Sadly I will be bowing out as an editor of Mountain Ears as I have recently "gone rural" and will be transferring to the Hottentots Holland section. Hint: new editors needed. It's fun and interesting (sometimes in the Chinese curse sense), but you can call on the experienced editorial team at any time for help, and you're guaranteed to learn some new online editing tricks. Reply to this email if you're game to give it a bash and you will be snapped up. Metaphorically speaking, of course ... This month: the convenience of the hut booking calendars, what's coming up in the first two weeks of January, meet reports, learn more about the Search and Rescue team, Cederberg trail report and an upcoming trad climbing event for the rockrabbits. Deadline for the February issue is 21 January. Your January editor will be Tony Heyer. Reply to this email with submissions for the next ME, queries or comments. Gill Gimberg

What's On: 20 to 30 December and photos of Skeleton meet

2011/12/19
 Well, the silly season is upon us and the weather in Cape Town has been pretty silly too, by all accounts. Unless anything changes on the calendar, this will be the last What's On of the year, but don't forget you can check the calendar for updates to meets or socials at any time on the website: www.mcsacapetown.co.za. Wishing everybody a safe, happy and healthy festive season. Your Mountain Ears will be in your email inbox next week. To send comments or suggestions to the Editor, simply reply to this email.

Meets Schedule for Q1 2012, Circular & Mountain Ears Digest

2011/12/06
 Contact the editor by replying to this email if you can't read the attachment.

Meet Reports, E-news and What's On: 6 to 18 December

2011/12/05
 and a special hike on the 24th December. Be sure to check the calendar for updates to meets or socials. To send comments or suggestions to the Editor, simply reply to this email.

Mountain Ears December 2011

2011/11/24
 For those of you who are wondering what happened to the November issue of Mountain Ears, wonder no more for this is a combined November/December issue. This month's issue sees Cape Nature lifting the moratorium on overnighting in the Boland mountains, an invitation to the premiere of a remarkable film about the outstanding contribution made by MCSA's Search & Rescue team, Peter Slingsby needs our assistance in compiling a new Cederberg Hiking Map, Andre Bredenkamp shares his Pakistan adventure with us and Jeremy Sampson's new book: Cape Vertical is reviewed. And lots more. All in all, a fine holiday read. The Editorial Team needs your assistance as Elizabeth Kelly is taking a break for a while. If you feel you would like to make a contribution to our team, please simply reply to this email. Full training and encouragement provided! Your Editor next month will be Gill Gimberg. Deadline for submissions for the January issue is 19 December. Happy holidays. Jenni Fitzell

What's On: 14 - 27 November 2011 & Steenberg B Meet Report

2011/11/14
 To send comments or suggestions to the Editor, simply reply to this email. Meet leaders, please email changes to Judith (phillips@storm.co.za) and Sonia (soniab@polka.co.za) by Thursday lunchtime of the preceding week, i.e. Thursday before the Monday's What's On.

What's On: 7 - 15 November 2011, Meet Reports & other Notices

2011/11/07

Mountain Ears October 2011

2011/10/31
 Please take note of new information on accessing CapeNature areas. There is also a new permit system for visiting TMNP with a dog. If you walk with a dog, you should also read Chris Walker's Flowers of the Month for some tips on how to avoid heat exhaustion in your faithful friend and, as always, see the best examples of the flora out there at the moment! Remember, should you have any comments or suggestions, please let us know simply by replying to this email. Cut-off date for submissions for next month's Mountain Ears is 18 November and Jenni Fitzell is your editor. Best regards Elizabeth Kelly

What's On: 18 - 27 Oct 2011, eNews, and Notices

2011/10/17

Mountain Ears September 2011

2011/09/26
 Spring has sprung in what Sir Francis Drake called "the fairest Cape in all the world". The weather is warming up and everywhere you look the fynbos is a riot of colour with purples and yellows predominating. This month's Mountain Ears is bursting with news from our Chairman, a Spring facelift at our own TM hut, Chris Walker's Spring flower selection and a very colourful slideshow of the MCSA meet to Postberg to see the flowers. There is also an appeal to keep your eyes open for Rinkhals on our mountain and a cautionary tale involving security at Paarl rock as well as an article on what we all already know to be true: exercise stimulates new brain cells. So when you have a spare moment after stimulating those new brain cells, browse through your Mountain Ears. Remember, should you have any comments or suggestions, please let us know simply by replying to this email. Cut-off date for submissions for next month's Mountain Ears is 19 October and Elizabeth Kelly is your editor. Have fun! Jenni Fitzell

What's On: 15th to 20th September 2011, national eNews, MCSA Paarl 10km trail-run, and Slackpacking trails launch

2011/09/12

Circular No 639 Notice of Half-yearly General Meeting and Meets for the 4th Quarter

2011/09/05
 We know that some of you prefer to print from Word documents and not pdf's and we apologise for inadvertently inserting the incorrect Word doc. in this morning's "What's On". Here is the correct Word doc. of the notice of the Half-Yearly AGM as well as a Word doc. of the Meets for October - December 2011.

What's On: 5th - 15th September 2011, meet reports, Circular 639 and Digest Sept 2011, and other interesting info

2011/09/05
 Meet leaders, please email changes to Judith (phillips@storm.co.za) and Sonia (soniab@polka.co.za) by Thursday lunchtime of the preceding week, i.e. Thursday before the Monday's What's On. To send comments or suggestions to the Editor, simply reply to this email.

What's on: 24th to 28th August and a Mid-week meet report

2011/08/24
 Changes to hike details need to be submitted by latest midday on a Friday to be included in the next What's On, which will publish on a Monday in future. (See the next issue of ME for more details of this change.) Changes can be submitted by replying to this email. Note that a new meet has been added recently. It is on Thursday 25th, doing a new route up Nordhoek Buttress on the Atlantic side, providing some very pleasant exposed B+ scrambling.

Mountain Ears August 2011

2011/08/29
 This August has definitely been more springish than wintry and those of us who managed a trip up the West Coast were rewarded by nature in all her extravagant beauty. For those of you who haven't yet taken a drive up the coast, there's still time. Note the changes to your MCSA Connect (What's on and Mountain Ears) profile categories and a change of publication day for the weekly What's on. This month's Mountain Ears includes some important access-related information, trails news, flowers, history and the weekly calendar. Cut-off date for next month is 21 September and Jenni Fitzell is your editor. Happy hiking! Gill Gimberg

What's on: 11th - 20th August, safety issues and offer from K-Way

2011/08/10
 Please send any submissions, amendments and requests by the Monday prior to each Wednesday's What’s On update. (To send, simply reply to this email.)

What's on: 4th - 14th August, E-News and launch of new Green Card

2011/08/03
 Please send any submissions, amendments and requests by the Monday prior to each Wednesday's What’s On update. (To send, simply reply to this email.)

Mountain Ears July 2011

2011/07/27
 A wide range of news this month, from local to international and conservation to history. Not seeing an article? Click All Newsletters! The deadline for the next issue is Monday 22 August. Any contributions, or queries to the editors, can be sent by replying to this email. The editor for August is Gill Gimberg. Tony Heher

What's on 14th-19th July

2011/07/13
 The usual What's On (but now with with more 'more'!) and a host of national and international news in the ever popular MCSA eNews. Please send any submissions, amendments and requests by the Monday prior to each Wednesday's What’s On update. (To send, simply reply to this email.)

What's On 7-15th July

2011/07/06
 Besides the regular (and popular) What's On some interesting results from last week's survey and an update on the security situation which remains a concern to many. As always, submissions to What's On, or any queries, can be sent by replying to this email. We do want to hear from you.

What's on: 30th June - 7th July... and a survey

2011/06/29
 Besides the regular What's On, an important survey which all members are asked to complete. It only takes a few minutes and will provide essential feedback to the Club. Some feedback from last week: Sometimes an article mentioned in the editorial may be "missing" if it is in a category excluded by your preferences. To access, simply click All Newsletters ... or Search.

Mountain Ears June 2011

2011/06/24
 This month Mountain Ears is short and sweet including a fascinating report on the fate of glaciers and the implications for our planet, a report on water conservation in Cape Town with solutions that may involve the pumping of water from underneath Table Mountain, the ever popular floral contribution from Chris Walker and pictures from the rockfall on Table Mountain. Also, find out who's harvesting plants & animals from our mountains, and why. (If you can't see the fascinating report on the fate of glaciers it means that you haven't updated your profile to include the category: "International News"). The deadline for the next issue is Monday 18 July. Any contributions, or queries to the editors, can be sent by replying to this email. The editor for July is Tony Heher - back after a 12 month "sabbatical"! Happy mountain meanders. Jenni Fitzell

What's On: 23 June - 5th July 2011 and meet report

2011/06/22
 Please send any submissions, amendments and requests by the Monday prior to each week’s What’s On update. (To send, simply reply to this email.)

What's On 9-19 June 2011 and additional notices

2011/06/08

What's On: 2-12 June 2011 and additional notices

2011/06/01

Mountain Ears May 2011

2011/05/30
 Despite the nip in the air and clouds on the mountain, this autumn has been relatively dry and has afforded us many beautiful days. I hope you managed to spend some of these in the mountains. This month's Mountain Ears includes a lot of administrative news and notices, as well as the usual favorites including Flowers of the Month and meet reports. If you are having trouble receiving newsletters at all, or aren't getting the right amount of communication in the best format for you to read it, please see the article on use and FAQs or contact us directly for help. The editor for June is Jenni Fitzell, please make sure your submissions are sent to mcsa.connect@gmail.com before 20 June. Keep warm, safe, and adventurous Elizabeth Kelly

What's On: 26 May - 5 June 2011

2011/05/25

What's On: 19 May - 28 May 2011 and eNews

2011/05/18

What's On: 12 May - 21 May 2011

2011/05/11

What's on: 5th to 14th May

2011/05/04
 A small change has been made which could have a big impact on how much information you receive. If you are happy with what you are getting, do nothing! If you want more control over what you get, read the article below. Plus the normal What's On for the 5th to 14th May...

Mountain Ears April 2011

2011/05/04
 Apart from Chris Walker's popular flowers of the month, this newsletter includes What's on for the next week or so, the line-up for First Tuesday, a profile of our chairman, Andy Wood, feedback from our members (Letters to the Editor), a couple of rock meet reports and a whole host of upcoming events. Hope you enjoy the read. Deadline for the next issue is Friday 20 May (email mcsa.connect@gmail.com) and our May editor is Elizabeth Kelly. Gill Gimberg

What's on: 21 to 29 April

2011/04/20
 A relatively quiet week ahead and an unusual and exciting sighting in the Dutoitskloof area.

What's on: 14 to 24 April

2011/04/13
 In this weekly What's on: the usual calendar of events, a slideshow, a rock rally and a chance to imbibe the tranquility of the Cederberg, meet reports and the monthly MCSA e-news.

Mountain Ears March 2011

2011/03/28
 This month's Mountain Ears is full of stories and pictures to inspire those who did not manage to get out into the wild this month or who are looking to try something new. There is also plenty of controversy for those looking for a cause or simply for a good debate. From fracking to route grading to cutting down the Tokai Plantation, you can have your say and take a stand on the issues that matter most to you. For the fynbos fans: Chris Walker's Flowers of the Month are back after falling victim to the hungry Internet Monster during February, and there is a Botanical Quiz from Eric H. Harley to test those who know their petioles from their petals, or who want to learn more and enjoy some exquisite pictures of fynbos in flower. Gill Gimberg is back in the editor's chair next month; be sure to submit your contributions for the newsletter by 21 April to mcsaconnect@gmail.com Finally, thank you to all those who have supported me during my first month as editor. Until May, Elizabeth Kelly

Mountain Ears February 2011

2011/02/25
 February has been very hot with more than one meet finding members caught out with insufficient water. Luckily they were able to draw on experienced members' knowledge and could locate fresh water from drips and hard-to-locate perennial streams on Table Mountain. This issue of Mountain Ears includes news and important notices to download including Circular 637 - AGM and important notices, financial statements and Club Meets for next quarter. There are also meet reports - including a spectacular kloofing adventure - an update on the Cape Leopard Trust's project on Club property, info on the new Table Mountain Cable card, a report-back on a Safety on Table Mountain meeting with the MEC, and much more. Next month we introduce a new Editor in the person of Elizabeth Jane Kelly who will be a most welcome addition to the Editorial Team. Please make sure all submissions for the March edition are sent before 21 March to mcsaconnect@gmail.com Enjoy. Jenni Fitzell

From the chairman

2011/02/01

What's on: 28 Jan to 9 Feb

2011/01/27

Mountain Ears January 2011

2011/01/28
 Summer, balmy (barmy?) weather and the first Mountain Ears of 2011. In this edition you'll find the weekly What's on, Petra Grobler's e-news, Chris Walker's informative fynbos topic of the month, the Breekkrants December meet report, a few conservation-related articles, and more. Look out for the invitations, too: a book launch, FEAT's 'show and tell' at Artscape, and a screening at City Rock (tonight!). We've had people asking about the More ... at the bottom of the weekly What's on calendar and notices. Confusion arises because, to put it bluntly, there is no more. The software has been designed to use this feature and we can't remove the word 'more'. However, in order to try and minimise the number of user clicks on the weekly calendar (and short articles in Mountain Ears), we are having to use it in an unconventional way. Next month's editor is Jenni Fitzell. Please send submissions by Monday 21 February. Happy reading and happier hiking, Gill Gimberg

What's on: 21 Jan to 6 Feb, update on Dutoitskloof fire, Visgat bookings & Otter Trail

2011/01/20

What's on: 7 to 15 Jan

2011/01/07
 Wishing you a happy and active 2011, and not too many more heatwaves!

Mountain Ears December 2010

2010/12/29
 In this Mountain Ears you will find your usual favourite: Flowers of the Month, as well as a book review, news about the MCSA Digitisation Project and Club meet reports with pics and slideshows. Please send accolades, complaints, submissions or requests to the Editors at mcsa.connect@gmail.com. Deadline for articles for next month: 20 January. Gill Gimberg will be editing the first issue of Mountain Ears and What's On in 2011. I would like to wish you and your family a wonderful festive season and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. Jenni Fitzell

What's On: 17 - 24 Dec, E-News 12/2 & Special Notices

2010/12/16
 Friday, December 17 Clubhouse closed in the evening Saturday, December 18 (Conservation) Meet at the top of Price Drive, Constantia at 2pm. Jos de Gendt 021 712 7506 Friday, December 24 Clubhouse closed in the evening

Mountain Ears November 2010

2010/11/29
 You've probably noticed the return of that catchy name, Mountain Ears, to this newsletter. To find out the reason for the change, read 'Mountain Ears - What's in a name?' We hope there will be something for everybody to read in this, the penultimate newsletter of 2010. There are meet reports, slideshows, everyone's favourite - the flowers of the month, the 'coming out of the closet' of one of your stealth team editors, local and international news. Also, look out for a reminder of how to customise your newsletter to suit your needs. Enjoy the read and don't hesitate to email feedback (brickbats included, but not mandatory) and any requests you may have to your editors at mcsa.connect@gmail.com. Deadline for articles for next month: 20 December. Jenni Fitzel will be editing Mountain Ears and What's On next month. Gill Gimberg

What's on: 18 to 27 Nov and urgent notice

2010/11/18

MCSA Connect October 2010

2010/10/24
 Dear Members, This month we have a double bonus of Flowers from Chris Walker, and several slideshows of Club meets, including the National meet at Towerkop. Please would users of our hut on TM note that we are sanding and sealing the floor so the hut is CLOSED from the 1st to 5th November, but the toilet and grounds are still open for use. Unfortunately a negative note is there have been a number of attacks to hikers and tourists on the mountain recently, and you should please be alert and prepared. Regards from your Editorial team.

MCSA weekly meets and notices 15th Oct to 22nd Oct

2010/10/14
 Here is the weekly calendar of events for the CT section, and any additional notices attached will only be visible if they match the preference categories you have chosen. Regards from the Connect editorial team.

MCSA weekly meets and notices 8th Oct to 15th Oct

2010/10/07
 Dear Members, this weekly update will only be showing you items that you have selected in your Newsletter preferences. Please note that the TM Hut will be closed from the 1st to the 7th November for floor sanding and sealing. We apologise in advance for the inconvenience, but hope you will enjoy having our favourite hut spruced up?

MCSA Weekly Meets and Notices 1st October to 8th October

2010/09/30
 This weekly update has the Calendar of events AND important access info on Jan du Toit's Kloof, plus an offer of a Bird ID course for beginners, so keep scrolling down, and if you don't see it that means you have not selected such items in your preferences.

MCSA Connect September 2010

2010/09/29
 Our winter theme for meets was Inselbergs and there appears to be a little confusion around what Inselbergs are with one MCSA member even complaining that the Editor had made a mistake with the Calendar because "Inselberg had already been climbed twice this winter"! Here is a handy definition from Wordsmith: Inselberg PRONUNCIATION: (IN-suhl-burg, -zuhl-) MEANING: noun: An isolated mountain or hill rising abruptly from its surrounding. In the US it's known as a monadnock. ETYMOLOGY: From German Insel (island) + Berg (mountain), ultimately from the Indo-European root bhergh- (high). In this newsletter: - National eNews - Breekkrants half year report - African Ascent project to help porters on Kilimanjaro - Report on safety training meet, and many other meet reports - An uplifting story about boulderers coming to a MCSA member's aid - Mass action in our mountains - Discount voucher on offer - Flowers of the month - Details of The International Mountain Summit And much more. Deadline for submissions for next month's Connect: 18 October. Reports / news can be emailed to mcsa.connect@gmail.com. Enjoy. Jenni Fitzell

MCSA Connect August 2010

2010/08/27
 We continue to hear from members that they enjoy Connect, and especially the slideshows of club meets. They also comment how useful it is getting much more information and sooner than waiting for a quarterly newsletter. However, we also unfortunately hear that some members experience trouble with Connect getting blocked by Spam filters. In that case, please let Connect or Rose in the office know about it and we will try to help you. Finally, we are sending out the Quarterly meets schedule as a Printable document, separate from the newsletter so members can print it out if they want to. Failing that, feel free to come and collect a printed copy from the office. Regards from your Editorial team. Lost: a blue metal walking pole, with 'Parque della Cinqueterra' printed on the shaft, lost Feb 2009 (!) near the top of Dark Gully. Owner hopes that someone might have picked it up and still has it. Contact: Penny Brown, tel 021-790-3535, cell 076-191-4119, email penny.brown@mweb.co.za

MCSA Connect July 2010

2010/07/28
 Another month has gone by and, as always, MCSA members have been out there doing stuff! In this newsletter there are: - printable Word docs of third quarter meets and socials; - a successful (and fun) PR exercise; - invitations to the national meet at Towerkop and the Sentinel (Drakensberg) centenary meet; - national and international news; - details of the Green Flag trail accreditation system; - for rock lovers - how to join the Cape Rock News forum; - a number of meet reports, with beautiful slide shows, and - some history, fauna and flora. Dave Orton found a pair of prescription sunglasses on the Chapmans Peak path on 20 July. If you think they're yours, phone Dave on 021-794 1270. Deadline for submissions for next month's Connect: 23 August. Reports / news can be emailed to mcsa.connect@gmail.com.

MCSA Connect June 2010

2010/06/27
 Editorial Whilst it is gratifying to hear from so many members that they enjoy all the extra news and articles they read in Connect, and also how useful it is to get the news so regularly and up to date, it is a concern that many members don't even open the newsletter, and those that do, read hardly anything it contains. Please use the 'Your Preferences' facility to specify what items of news you are interested in, so that when Connect arrives in your mailbox, you will hopefully want to read it immediately. Remember also that the MCSA CT section website is YOURS, and we encourage you to please use it as well. That is why often there is a link at the end of an item, and clicking on the link takes you to our website where the full story or extra pages are located. Thank you from your Connect Editorial team.

MCSA CT section circular 634-important notices to members

2010/06/07
 This special quarterly notification is in addition to the usual monthly Connect newsletter. It contains important information on club matters, and all members are encouraged to please note the contents. Thank you from our Office staff, and the Connect Editorial team.

MCSA Connect May 2010

2010/05/26
 Putting together a "Connect" newsletter is definitely a challenging, but ultimately rewarding job! As yet another new member of the editorial team (there are now three of us plus Tony), it is my fervent wish that we do just that - connect - with all mountain club members, and that you in turn connect with us. Our club motto is Explore - Discover - Connect - Protect; this newsletter plays an important role in that connection. If you have any queries, suggestions, comments or complaints or would like to contribute in any way, please feel free to email us at mcsa.connect@gmail.com. Have your say and be heard! In this issue: - Lots of interesting national and international news in the National eNews - SACS Mountain Club's 10-Yearly Reunion - A new route on Boskloof Ridge - Rim of Africa - a walk of no ordinary proportion - Meet Reports with great pics and/or slideshows - A trip down memory lane to revisit old first ascents and other challenges and lots more. Jenni Fitzell

MCSA Connect April 2010

2010/04/21
 Hello from a newby on the Connect editorial team. Hopefully I will live up to Tony's (and Mike's) high standard and not let too many gremlins creep into the April newsletter! In this issue: - A message from the new Chairman - An invitation to the Club's annual dinner - Important notification of Montagu crag closures - Look out for these plants and help the Millennium Seed Bank project - Some beautiful slide shows, interesting meet reports, ... and much more Gill Gimberg

MCSA Connect March 2010

2010/03/17
 In this issue, its good to see another two rock climbing articles. Both new routes and old favourites are popular, so do keep them coming. There are also lots of other interesting snippets, library news, great photos of meets, some stunning fynbos 'tours' and more.

MCSA Connect Feb 2010

2010/03/02
 The newsletter this month has been produced by a panel of authors as part of the Connect training course that is in progress. So a warm welcome to all who have contributed. The articles capture some of the diversity of activities in the club from rock climbing to outreach. In this issue: four articles on trad rock news (for a change!)and several announcements of local and international meets. Muggings on the mountain have unfortunately started again with two hot spots emerging. Do report any incident you experience or hear about.

MCSA Connect Jan 2010

2010/02/03
 Gencom has decided that the Connect newsletter should publish once a month in 2010. It will normally publish in the last week of the month, so any articles for inclusion should reach the Editor (or Rose) by the 25th of the month. In addition, a short text message will be sent weekly on a Sunday with any urgent items and the current programme listing the meets to be booked by the Monday. This is also to help those who have difficulty accessing the on-line Calendar. It is only sent to those who have requested meets or socials information.

MCSA Connect 14 Dec 2009

2009/12/17
 Chairman’s message: This is the last issue of MCSA-Connect for 2009. The next issue of Connect will be published in mid-January 2010. It is intended that MCSA-Connect will have a regular frequency of distribution in 2010. This has been the introductory year and up to now the we have been trying different combinations of length and frequency to see what works best. It is summer and therefore it is fire-season. Please note the following extract from the MCSA’s Code of Conduct with respect to fire: - Take all the necessary precautions, especially in the use of stoves; and - Do not make fires unless explicit permission has been obtained from the land owner or the responsible authority. Also please note that toilet paper should be buried and NOT burnt. This summer, there already has been an unfortunate incident above the Du Toits Kloof Hut where a member tried to burn toilet paper, the burning toilet paper set some nearby slangbos on fire and within seconds a veld fire had started. The practice of burning toilet paper seems to have originated from river rafting trips on the Orange River. This is not appropriate behaviour for the mountains of the Western Cape & is not included in the MCSA’s Code of Conduct. The CapeNature Hiking Trail Review Project was successfully completed. Thanks to the project team as well as to the members of the different Sections of the MCSA that participated in this project. The Cape Town Section would like to wish you all a happy Festive Season. Be safe and we hope to see you in the mountains. Stephen Davey Chairman

MCSA Connect 7 December 2009

2009/12/17
 In this issue: the December edition of the National eNews; an interesting and informative article on Search and Rescue; a book launch on the Top 12 Hiking Trails in the Western Cape; an innovative competition where you can earn up to 21 chances to win a copy of the book; our first online video; and much more. A feature of this issue is many links to relevant articles and websites elsewhere, such as UK Scrambling, UIAA, SA Mountain Sport, and more. This is what the web is all about - seamlessly linking multiple resources from a wide range of sources.

MCSA Connect 2 November 2009

2009/12/10
 The new look website and newsletter is launched with this issue - please use the Help files or, if you are still unsure, ask the Editor! There are also three profiles, several meet reports (one, a new route), a new social and more. Thanks to all who have submitted articles, but to keep the newsletter to a reasonable length some had to be omitted - my apologies.

MCSA Connect 13 August 2009

2009/10/29
 In this issue: A guest editorial from Stephen Davey; some background to the website; a profile of Nigel and Lisa Basel; and a number of articles on how the newsletter works. This old newsletter is automatically sent to new members who did not receive it originaly as an aid to understanding how the newsletter, website and calendar work. Please also refer to the Help function in each and every newsletter as this has more background and is periodically updated with new information. Please note in particular that you can set your own preferences to determine what articles you receive in each issue - just click "My Account".

MCSA Connect 29 July 2009

2009/07/30
 In this issue: a bumper crop of meet reports, and three history articles for a change. Paul and Mallorie Lee are the personalities this week. The flowers of the week are back after going AWOL last week - to the disappointment of many!

MCSA Connect 22 July 2009

2009/07/30
 In this issue: a profile of Mark Middelton; a tribute to Ivor Davies; meet reports; some bits and pieces on conservation and more.

MCSA Connect 14 July 2009

2009/07/30
 A focus in this issue on security with a number of articles. The Walking Buddy group is up and running, so do join if you want to walk with an informal group, or are willing to take people with you. And of course our ever popular Personalties with our first couple: Richard & Robin Sherry.

MCSA Connect 7 July 2009

2009/07/30
 In this issue: A focus on scrambling safety. The comments and contributions raise a number of issues for discussion and debate. Some are quite controversial! So if you have an interest in scrambling safety, then read the articles and contribute your views.

MCSA Connect 30 June 2009

2009/07/30
 A bumper edition this week! Three profiles and a wide range of other articles. Connect is becoming known and 'stuff' just arrives every week. Too much? Then read 'All about Preferences' to design your own custom newsletter.

MCSA Connect 23 June 2009

2009/07/15
 In this issue: a profile of Jayson Orton; another rescue report; two meet reports... and the usual bits and pieces that (thankfully!) arrive every week.

MCSA Connect 16 June 2009

2009/06/29
 In this issue: A new Mountain Rescue topic; Dagmar Gleiss, is the personality this week and introducing a new Fynbos topic - the flower of the week; the Oudekraal saga resurfaces; and a mystery photo to test your mountain knowledge...

MCSA Connect 9 June 2009

2009/06/16
 The attacks on TM caught the attention of many last week and generated lots of feedback. Do keep sending. Another personality of course with Mike setting a new standard for a "photogenic" bio - you will find his multi-media show fascinating.

MCSA Connect 2 June 2009

2009/06/10
 In this issue: a profile of Bruce Spottiswoode; a report on safety and security; the introduction of the new Google Calendar of meets; and more.

MCSA Connect 27 May 2009

2009/06/08
 In this issue: an overview of the new MCSA CT strategy; a tribute to Ian Cowburn; profile of Christina Jongens; a report of the opening of a classic new route; and more.

MCSA Connect 20 May 2009

2009/06/08
 Welcome to the first MCSA Connect Newsletter! In this issue: profile of Stephen Davey; national eNews; some information on how the newsletter works; and more.

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