🏄 From Kamma Bay to Countrywide: Surf Garage Supply & we celebrate the remarkable journey of Lorna Such

👋 Hello Hermanus - stories of passion, dedication, and community spirit take centre stage this week!

From the surfboards shaping waves at Surf Garage Supply and young surfers learning their craft at Kamma Bay Surf School, we’re diving into the saltwater heart of our coastal town. We also celebrate the remarkable journey of headmaster Lorna Such, whose leadership has inspired countless young minds, and of course, we’ve gathered your go-to guide for what’s happening in and around Hermanus in the coming days.

In this week’s edition, we’re bringing you:

🌊 Spotlight on Matthew Muir from Surf Garage Supply & Kamma Bay Surf School
🎓 Celebrating the career and impact of Lorna Such
📅 What’s on in Hermanus - markets, music, and events you won’t want to miss

Here’s to the people, places, and stories that keep Hermanus thriving.

The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

P.S. Love local stories? Share the Scoop with a friend at hermanusscoop.co.za – it’s free and it’s lekker.

Property of the Week - Presented by Greeff Properties

Looking for ocean views or a mountainside retreat?

Each week, we spotlight a standout listing that captures the unique charm and lifestyle of the Overberg. From ocean-view escapes to tucked-away treasures, these are the homes that inspire imagination - and maybe even your next move. Brought to you by Greeff Properties, trusted specialists in exceptional real estate across the Overberg.

This exceptionally well-maintained 5-bedroom home in sought-after Sandbaai West offers comfortable coastal living just a short stroll from the beach.

The main bedroom is en-suite, and the home features a total of 2.5 bathrooms, ideal for a growing family or hosting guests. The heart of the home is the stylish open-plan kitchen with a gas hob, flowing seamlessly into the spacious entertainment area complete with indoor braai facilities – perfect for year-round entertaining.

View the full property here.

Business of the week

Matthew Muir - From Boutique to Boards

Over two decades ago, Matthew Muir and his family made a bold move - relocating from Durban to Hermanus. The decision came after Matthew’s father drove the length of the South African coast, turning down every left-hand road from Natal to the Western Cape in search of the perfect town. Hermanus won their hearts with its whales, its tight-knit community, and the clear gap they saw in the local market. They went on to start a clothing boutique called Logic Lifestyle, which they eventually sold in 2020 when Matthew identified a new opportunity: launching an online surf store.

Matthew has always been a keen surfer. His first trip to Indonesia marked the beginning of four life-changing surf pilgrimages, and what began as pure passion soon grew into a business. With longstanding relationships with brands like RVCA, Rip Curl and Boardriders, he founded Surf Garage. Initially restricted by trade restraints, Matthew began with “hard goods” and premium pre-loved boards. As doors opened with international labels, Surf Garage quickly evolved into a trusted source for surfers across South Africa and beyond. Boards were shipped nationwide, even reaching Mozambique and Kenya, where a dedicated bus route delivered boards directly to customers.

From the outset, being a surfer-run business was central to Matthew’s philosophy. He built a reputation for integrity - ensuring that every surfer left with equipment truly suited to their needs, whether a beginner’s soft-top or a finely tuned shortboard. This customer-first approach earned Surf Garage loyalty and trust, driving steady growth.

Around the same time, Matthew also launched Kammabaai Surf School. The school works hand-in-hand with Surf Garage, giving beginners their first taste of surfing and guiding them as they progress through boards and skills. Many students who started in Kammabaai’s waves now return to upgrade their equipment, creating a natural cycle of community, stoke, and growth.

Today, Matthew’s life is still centred on the ocean. When he’s not in the shop or teaching at the surf school, you’ll find him on the beach with his wife and two kids, catching waves, or cruising the coastline on his Harley Davidson. What began as a lifestyle shift 25 years ago has become a legacy - one built on waves, family, and a deep love for Hermanus.

Thinking of catching your first wave? Reach out to Matthew for a surf lesson.

🌊 Check them out online at www.surfgarage.co.za and follow along on Instagram for the latest boards, gear, and surf inspo. Also Check out Kammabaai Surf School: kammabaai_surfschool Instagram

Special feature: 👏 A Lifetime of Love, Learning, and Little Voices

Celebrating the remarkable journey of Lorna Such as she retires from Hermanus Pre-Primary

When you walk through the cheerful gates of Hermanus Pre-Primary, known fondly for decades as Babbel en Krabbel, you don’t just step into a school. You step into the legacy of one extraordinary woman who has spent 46 years shaping it with her heart, soul, and tireless dedication: Lorna Such.

Now, as she bids farewell to her role as headmaster, the community pauses to celebrate not just her retirement but a remarkable life devoted to the calling of teaching.

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Roots in Teaching

Born on 31 July 1953 and raised on a farm in the Warmbad district of what was then South West Africa, Lorna grew up surrounded by the values of hard work, care, and community. Inspired by her mother, herself a gifted teacher whose gravestone bears the words “Haar waarde was ver bo die van korale”, Lorna never doubted her own path. Teaching wasn’t a career choice. It was her destiny.

That destiny unfolded quickly. On the very last day of matric, her principal called her in and said simply: “The day you write your last paper, phone me!” She did, and in January 1975, without so much as an application form, she began teaching Grade 2 at her alma mater.

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The Seeds of Something Bigger

Never one to rest on her laurels, Lorna completed her HOD Pre-Primary diploma through UNISA and proudly opened the very first nursery school in Keetmanshoop in 1977. It was a bold step, one that revealed her natural gift for building something new, nurturing it, and helping it flourish.

When she and her husband moved to Hermanus in 1979, she was once again ready to teach. By chance, a simple conversation in a doctor’s waiting room led her to the opportunity of a lifetime: a little class of 17 children.

No application, no interview, no red tape, just a hall, 17 eager faces, and one teacher with boundless energy. That was the humble birth of Babbel en Krabbel.

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From One Class to a Community

What began as a single class grew year by year into a thriving school. Under Lorna’s guidance, Babbel en Krabbel evolved into Hermanus Pre-Primary, now home to 13 classes and 12 aftercare groups.

The growth wasn’t just in numbers. It was in spirit. Parents and teachers joined hands, guided by Lorna’s philosophy that hard work, dedication, and positivity can move mountains. As she recalls an older woman once telling her:

“My child, if there is only one positive person, take his or her hand and run. Together you will reach your goals.”

For Lorna, teaching was never “just work.” It was hard labour seasoned with joy, late nights preparing, weekends given over to school, and countless moments of laughter and tears shared with children, parents, and colleagues.

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A Family of Teachers

Teaching runs in the Such family like lifeblood. Her daughter, Lara, began her own teaching journey at Hermanus Pre-Primary before moving on to Kleinmond Primêr, where she continues to thrive. Her daughter-in-law, Heidi, teaches with equal passion at Charlton Christian College in Australia.

And so, Lorna’s five grandchildren grow up with classrooms, stories, and schoolbooks woven into the fabric of their daily lives. They may sometimes joke about being “surrounded by teachers,” but they also know the truth: teaching is not a half-day job. It is a lifelong commitment.

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A Farewell, but Not an Ending

As Lorna retires, she leaves behind a school that is more than brick and mortar. It is a living testament to what happens when passion meets purpose. Thousands of children have passed through her care, their first lessons in life and learning shaped by her warmth, patience, and wisdom.

For Lorna, the greatest blessing of her journey has been the people, the children, parents, colleagues, and friends who became part of her extended family. “My journey at Babbel en Krabbel, later Hermanus Pre-Primary, has been the greatest honour and privilege,” she says.

Now, as she looks to new chapters, the Hermanus community will continue to feel her influence in every classroom, playground, and child’s smile that carries her legacy forward.

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Thank You, Lorna

For 46 years of unwavering dedication. For nurturing the little voices who grew into strong individuals. For proving that education, at its best, is an act of love.

As Hermanus Pre-Primary embarks on a new chapter, it does so standing tall on the foundation built by a teacher who never saw it as work but always as joy.

We salute you, Lorna Such. Your value is, indeed, above that of coral.

🌸 In honouring Lorna Such’s legacy of 46 years of teaching and building the foundation of our children’s education, we would love to gift her something special as she retires after 46 years of service to our community.

📸💌 We invite you to share your messages and photographs for Lorna by uploading them to this link: https://forms.gle/ytVDi9vU7NUJDkET9

Thank you for helping us celebrate her incredible journey! 🌟

📆 What’s On in Hermanus

Thursday | Panthera Africa 10-Year Celebratory Auction Fundraiser 🐾
🗓 Thursday, 2 October · 17:00 for 17:30
📍 Stanford Valley
✨ Join Panthera Africa as they celebrate 10 years with a special auction fundraiser. Enjoy bubbly, canapés and a 2-course meal (R800 pp), or opt for the exclusive sunset visit with a founder included (R1100 pp). All proceeds go directly towards food & vet care for their big cats.
📧 RSVP: [email protected] | WhatsApp: +27 82 448 0884

Hermanus Whale Festival 2025 🐋 
🗓 Friday 3 – Sunday 5 October 2025
📍 Hermanus Waterfront & surrounds

The festival features three days of live music, a Saturday Beer Fest, food & craft markets, and dedicated kiddies zones. There is also a 10km Fun Run (Sat, 07:00), the Springboks vs Argentina clash on the big screen (Sat, 15:00), and the Reunion Island Marquee, where you can explore eco-tourism and ocean conservation initiatives.

🌐 Full schedule: hermanuswhalefestival.co.za/events

First Fridays Artwalk 🎨
🗓 Friday, 3 October · 17:00 – 20:00
📍 Hermanus Town Centre – Stroll through town as galleries stay open late, showcasing an incredible mix of art, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics, and photography. A vibrant evening celebrating local creativity.

Hermanus Sports Club Racathon – Part 2 🎾🏓🎯
🗓 Friday, 3 October · 17:15 (instructions) | 17:30 (play starts)
📍 Hermanus Sports Club

Back by popular demand! Following the fun and gees of April’s event, the 2025 Hermanus Sports Club Racathon, Part 2 is here. Expect an action-packed evening of squash, tennis, pickleball, padel, table tennis and darts – with fast-paced 15-minute sessions, quick rotations, and plenty of competition. Partners change throughout the evening, scores are tallied individually, and the vibe is all about energy, rivalry and fun.

Saturday | “Hop On–Hop Off” Cliff Path Walk 🐋
🗓 Saturday, 4 October · From 08:00
📍 New Harbour → Grotto Beach
✨ Take in the beauty of the Hermanus cliff path at your own pace. Join or exit at various points, with a break at Kaaimans. End with a bite and kuier at Dutchies. Average pace: 4 km/h.
💰 Voluntary donation of R20+ for Lighthouse2Lighthouse Fundraising Campaign
📞 Contact Issie on +27 72 268 0709

Oktoberfest at Benguela Cove 🍺
🗓 Saturday, 04 October · 12:00 – 21:00
📍 Benguela Cove Wine Estate

Dress in your best Bavarian garb and join a day of music, craft beer, wine, German cuisine, live Oompah tunes, and DJ sets. Expect a festive market, family fun, and a chance to win best-dressed!

🎟 Tickets: R250 (adult) | R135 (child over 3)
➡️ Get tickets here: Benguela Cove Oktoberfest 2025 

Whales & Wheels 🚗🐋
🗓 Saturday, 4 October · 09:00 – 15:00
📍 Sandbaai Hall
💵 R20 entry | Kids free

Step back in time at this beloved vintage and classic car exhibition, part of the Hermanus Whale Festival! A spectacular display of polished retro, classic and vintage vehicles proudly showcased by passionate collectors. Expect nostalgia, stories, style — and the perfect coastal backdrop.

Heartland Adventure – Open Day & Fun Day 🐴
🗓 Saturday, 4 October · 09:30–12:00
📍 Heartland Adventure
✨ Pony gymkhana, sack races, obstacle courses, treasure hunts and more! A full morning of fun for riders and non-riders alike.
💰 R100 per event (minimum 3 events)
📧 Contact: [email protected] | WhatsApp: +27 83 289 5915

Kids Padel Tournament 🎾
🗓 Monday, 6 October · 10:00–16:00
📍 Play Padel Hermanus
✨ Kids learn to play padel with coaching, fun games, and prizes. Categories include “Learn to Play” and “Go for Gold.” Padel rackets provided, plus goodie bags included.
💰 R200 per student | FREE for homeschooled students
📞 WhatsApp bookings: +27 60 109 2525

Heartland Adventure – Survival Skills Camp 🏕
🗓 6–8 October · 09:30–13:00
📍 Heartland Adventure
✨ Kids can learn to build shelters, try target practice, cook outdoors, and take on the obstacle course challenge. Each day brings a new adventure.
💰 R300 per child per day | Overnight teens-only camp option R2500 (2 nights / 3 days)
📧 Contact: [email protected] | WhatsApp: +27 83 289 5915

Dozi 🎶
🗓 Friday, 10 October · 19:00
📍 Sandbaai Saal

South African music legend Dozi brings his soulful sounds to Hermanus for a one-night-only performance. Enjoy an evening of live music and local flavour in the Sandbaai community hall.

🎟 Tickets from R180
📲 WhatsApp: 074 717 2582
📧 Email: [email protected]
🔗 Book online: Quicket

🌿 The Usuals

Saturday | Hermanus Country Market
🗓 Every Saturday · 09:00 – 14:00
📍 Hermanus Cricket Club
Artisan stalls, live music, food, fresh produce and a family-friendly vibe - a staple Saturday outing for locals and visitors alike.

Local Thrift Market 🛍️
🗓 Saturday, 09:00 – 13:00
📍 De Wet Saal / De Wet Hall

Browse a variety of stalls and discover unique pre-loved treasures at the Local Thrift Market. Bring your fur-friend along (on a leash) and enjoy a relaxed, community market day.

Saturday | Hermanus ParkRun 🏃
🗓 Every Saturday · 08:00
📍 Hermanus Forest, Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
Start your weekend with a scenic 5km trail run (or walk). Free to join.

Saturday | Benguela Cove ParkRun 🏃 
🗓 Saturday · 08:00
📍 Benguela Cove, R43, Botriver Lagoon, Hermanus Another beautiful 5km trail run (or walk) along the lagoon. Free to join - just register online at parkrun.co.za.

🎓 Schools

Schools close tomorrow so here are 2 picks for the holidays:

For the younger ones:

or

🌤️ Spring continues to stir the air, with Hermanus shifting between crisp mornings, bright sunshine, and a few passing showers.

Thursday arrives cool and partly cloudy, before Friday lifts into warm, golden light. Saturday holds brightness but carries some cloud and rain, while Sunday softens into cooler skies. Early next week brings mixed weather - sun breaking through showers - until midweek reminds us spring can still turn grey.

Here’s what the days ahead look like:

⸻

Thursday 2 October
Partly cloudy, fresh. 🌥️ 15°C / 12°C. Winds 11–7 m/s.

Friday 3 October
Bright and warm. ☀️ 21°C / 11°C. Winds 12–9 m/s.

Saturday 4 October
Sunny spells, some showers. 🌦️ 21°C / 10°C, 2.4 mm rain. Winds 12–3 m/s.

Sunday 5 October
Cooler, light showers. 🌦️ 17°C / 13°C, 0.5 mm rain. Winds 9–6 m/s.

Monday 6 October
Showery with some sun. 🌦️ 17°C / 12°C, 2.4 mm rain. Winds 8–4 m/s.

Tuesday 7 October
Fair and bright. 🌤️ 18°C / 10°C. Winds 6–1 m/s.

Wednesday 8 October
Cloudy with showers. 🌦️ 16°C / 12°C, 2.5 mm rain. Winds 5–4 m/s.

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From Friday’s sunshine to Saturday’s splash and Sunday’s cool-down, the week ahead carries the rhythm of spring - changeable skies, fresh air, and moments of warmth.

🍔 Restaurant Specials:

Here are some of the best deals from all over town for you to enjoy during the coming week:

Spotted in the Overberg: Photo of the Week

Each week, we feature one special snap submitted by someone who calls this place home. From misty morning walks to playful pups on the beach - we want to see what you see.

And here’s the perk: every featured photographer gets a free flat white on us - in partnership with Molo Coffee. So send in your best shot to [email protected], and you might just sip your way to local fame.

That’s a wrap for this week’s Scoop!

Stay warm, stay dry, stay curious and we’ll catch you next week!

- The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

P.S. Want to be featured in the Scoop? Drop us a mail at [email protected] - we’d love to hear from you.

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