Seraphim Keeping Hermanus Safe & the Cliff Path Extension Nears Completion 🌊

👋 Good morning, Hermanus and surrounds. Welcome back to Hermanus Scoop! 

Now that the FynArts Festival is in the bag and wrapped we enter the heart of Winter as the school holidays approach!

This week, we follow the final paving stones of the Cliff Path extension as it winds closer to completion - opening up fresh views and new walks for locals and visitors alike. Then, we swap sea spray for security as we sit down with Liza Strydom of Seraphim Security to talk about community safety, neighbourhood patrols, and what it really takes to watch over Hermanus.

🎭 As the town catches its breath post-FynArts, there’s still plenty happening - and we’re here to keep you in the loop.

For those that have family members, friends or colleagues in the community who have not yet subscribed to Hermanus Scoop: We’re entering all people who subscribe between today and 17:00 on Wednesday 25 June into a lucky draw to win 10 coffees at Mikro Coffee in Aberdeen Street - so get them to do so and your next coffee might just be on them!

Let’s get stuck in.

- The Hermanus Scoop Team 🐋

P.S. The new Cliff Path scenery? Perfect backdrop for reading The Scoop.

🏡 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.

Scaling down or starting up - this is an ideal property for you!

This beautifully designed, lock-up-and-go home is located in the Sundew Villas security estate - just a short walk to Curro School and minutes from Whale Coast Mall. Estate amenities include a communal pool, kids’ play park, and doggy run.

The spacious, double-volume open-plan lounge, dining, and well designed kitchen area features a charming wood-burning fireplace and flows seamlessly to a sunny, north-facing braai patio with stunning mountain views. Two well-appointed bedrooms include tailor-made shutters in the main bedroom and lounge. The second bedroom is en-suite, and there’s a separate family bathroom. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this beautiful sanctuary yours - schedule your viewing today!

View the property in full here.

🌊 🚧 Cliff Path Crew: Let’s Say Thanks the Hermanus Way

This week, we took a sneak peek at the new stretch of the Cliff Path - and it’s already something special. The views are just as spectacular, and the craftsmanship shines through every curve and stone.

⚠️ While parts of the path are accessible, it’s not officially complete yet - so if you head out for a look, please proceed with caution and visit at your own risk.

What makes it even more remarkable is the story behind it: a team of ±30 workers who, through wind, rain, and Hermanus grit (and always with a smile), moved 720 tons of concrete - that’s 6,600 wheelbarrow loads - by hand to shape this coastal treasure.

Now it’s our turn to show them some love.

💚 Donate by the end of today to help provide jackets, rain gear, boots & more:

Cliff Path Action Group
Investec | 1001 2167 607 | Ref: Workers

🥫 Prefer to drop something off in person? Swing by De Jagers, 104 Main Rd between 12-19 June with something nourishing: Weet-Bix, peanut butter, honey, soup, bully beef, biscuits, coffee, hot chocolate, juice, Bar Ones - whatever feels like a Winter thank you.

🎉 The team will be honoured in a small gathering on 20/21 June, and we at Hermanus Scoop would like to personally thank them for the hard work and sacrifices on their end in bringing this to life.

Let’s show our appreciation for the quiet crew behind one of Hermanus’s most beautiful new additions.

🔐 Local Business Spotlight: A COVID-19 Success Story: How Seraphim Security Became Hermanus’ Trusted Watchdog

This week’s local business spotlight is on Seraphim Security.

This week, we caught up with Liza Strydom, co-founder and Managing Director of Seraphim Security International, a company making a powerful impact in keeping Hermanus safe. From its international roots in high-risk security to becoming one of the most trusted names in the Overberg, Seraphim’s journey is one of purpose, integrity, and deep community commitment.

Can you tell us how Seraphim Security started?

Seraphim Security International was established in 2016 to meet the growing global demand for trusted, high-level security services. From the start, we focused on cutting-edge technology, world-class training, and adhering to international standards. We initially served high-profile clients across Africa and the Middle East, but during the COVID-19 lockdown, our journey led us home - to Hermanus.

When local neighbourhood watches were unable to operate due to lockdown restrictions, my husband and I personally funded Seraphim’s deployment in areas like Vermont, Onrus, and Sandbaai - offering our services free of charge for six months. With two patrol vehicles and four armed officers, we provided consistent presence and protection. That effort laid the foundation for our long-term commitment to the area. Our name, “Seraphim”, refers to the highest order of guardian angels - a fitting symbol for our mission of vigilance, justice, and protection.

What inspired you to focus your business in Hermanus?

We’ve called Hermanus home since 2015, and we truly love this community. As the town evolved into a bustling hub, the need for professional and reliable security services became clear. Through Seraphim, we also saw an opportunity to uplift the local economy by creating jobs and making a real difference where we live. There’s a unique magic in owning a business in a small town - you’re part of the heartbeat. Relationships are personal, word-of-mouth matters, and loyalty is earned through consistent care. We’re incredibly proud of the trust we’ve built here.

What services does Seraphim offer - and what makes you different?

We offer a full range of customised, high-quality security services, including:

• Alarm and CCTV system installation & monitoring

• 24/7 armed response

• K9 patrol units (we’re the only registered K9 provider in Hermanus)

• Secure escort services for individuals and high-value goods

• On-site guarding at homes, estates, schools, farms, and businesses • Event security planning and management

• Training and security consultation

Our strength lies in our highly skilled personnel, global experience, and hands-on service. We treat every client as a partner, and our reputation for professionalism sets us apart.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in the Overberg?

The client base in a smaller town like Hermanus is naturally more limited, which can make scaling unpredictable. To address this, we’ve diversified - adding technical installations, specialised K9 services, event security, and continuing work with international clients. And of course, in a close-knit town, reputation is everything. One mistake can have lasting impact. That’s why we’ve built our business on transparency, consistency, and delivering top-tier service every single time.

How have crime trends shifted in Hermanus in recent years?

We’ve seen a definite rise in property-related crime, especially as the town welcomes more residents, holidaymakers, and tourists. Incidents like burglary, theft from vehicles, and general petty crime have increased - highlighting the need for adaptable, professional security that evolves with the community.

If you had one day off in Hermanus, how would you spend it?

I’d start my day with coffee and croissants at Black Medicine, watch the town come to life, then take a relaxed stroll along the Cliff Path - hopefully spot a whale or two. I’d stop for Chardonnay and Pinchos at Ficks, and finish with a delicious fillet steak at Hussar Grill.

Your favourite local spots?

• Black Medicine - for the coffee and community vibe

• Milk on the Beach - their sushi and poke bowls are amazing

• Hussar Grill - always a winner for a great dinner

For more information about Seraphim Security International, visit them at their head office on 15 Main Road, Onrus River, or connect with them online.

"At Seraphim, our mission is clear: to protect with excellence and integrity - day or night, near or far."

📆 What’s On in Hermanus

The Winter chill might be settling in but that’s no excuse not to get out and about during the coming week as there’s a lot to get up to in spite of the cold:

Saturday | Hermanus Country Market 🌿 
🗓 Saturday, 21 June · 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.

Saturday | The Marine Hotel Winter Food & Wine Pairing with Iona Wines 🍷 
🗓 Saturday, 21 June · 12:00 📍 The Marine Hotel - featuring Iona Wines from the Elgin Valley. Priced at R495 per person, the experience includes a four-course lunch perfectly paired with four of lona's standout wines, beginning with a welcome glass of Iona Elgin Highlands Sauvignon Blanc 2024. Reservations: Tel 028 313 1000 or email [email protected]

Saturday | A Fool For You 🎭
🗓 Saturday, 21 June · 18:00 📍 The Cave Theatre - At the beautiful and intimate Cave Theatre for this fund raising show, to take these two clowns to National Arts Festival!

Saturday | Penguin Plunge 🐧
🗓 Saturday, 21 June · 11:30 📍 Between King and Quick Streets in Stanford - Get ready for a chilly splash, hot drinks, and warm hearts, all in support of their Soup Kitchens for the Elderly.

Saturday | Hermanus ParkRun 🏃 
🗓 Saturday, 21 June · 08:00 📍 Hermanus Forest, Camphill Road, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Start your weekend with a scenic 5km trail run (or walk). Free to join - just register online at parkrun.co.za.

Saturday | Jakkie Louw Akoesties 🎶
🗓 Saturday, 21 June · 18:00 📍 Burgundy Restaurant - selection of Afrikaans music by Jakkie Louw. Tickets available at R250 per person.

🌞🌦️ Hermanus Weather Update: 19 - 25 June

We’re in for a cool and mostly dry Winter stretch - ideal for fresh air strolls, lazy lunches, and cliff path wanders. Just keep an eye on Wednesday: it’s shaping up to be a proper splash!

⸻

Thursday 19 June
Cool and calm with some sunshine. High of 16°C, low of 9°C. Moderate gusty winds, almost no rain expected.

Friday 20 June
Cloudy with passing showers. High of 17°C, low of 14°C. Around 3.3 mm of rain — breezy with gusts up to 12 m/s.

Saturday 21 June
Clear and settled. High of 17°C, low of 9°C. Dry all day, perfect winter weather.

Sunday 22 June
Some cloud about, but staying mostly dry. High of 17°C, low of 9°C. A brief sprinkle possible.

Monday 23 June
Cloudy but comfortable. High of 16°C, low of 9°C. No rain expected.

Tuesday 24 June
Cloudy with increasing winds. High of 16°C, low of 9°C. No rain expected.

Wednesday 25 June
Wet and gusty with up to 24 mm forecast. High of 14°C, low of 11°C. Keep that umbrella close.

A stretch of quiet, walkable winter days is on the cards - but brace yourself for a big rainmaker on Wednesday. If you’re planning hikes, markets, or errands, aim for Saturday or Sunday!

🏉 🏫 Sports & Schools:

📚 Schools Update Exam Season: School activities are quieter this week as most learners are busy with exams as we head towards the end of the second term:

🎂 Cake & Support: Hermanus Primary School will be hosting a PTA Cake Sale on 20 June to raise funds. Pop by and support if you can.

❄️ Term Break: Schools will close on 27 June, marking the end of the second term and the start of the Winter School Holidays.

Best of luck to all the learners still putting in the long hours and hard study - we’ve been through this and so will you!

🍕 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!

Whether you’re wandering the new stretch of the Cliff Path, enjoying a Winter special in town or just soaking up the quieter post-FynArts rhythm - here’s to the small things that make Hermanus feel like home.

Until next time…

Stay safe, stay dry (Wednesday’s coming!), and stay curious.

- The Hermanus Scoop team 🐋