NEWSLETTER - DECEMBER 2023
CLUBHOUSE MANAGER’S NEWSLETTER
PROUD SPONSOR
WHAT DOES CHRISTMAS MEAN TO YOU?
KZN’S COASTAL GRASSLANDS
From the Estate Manager
What’s Happening @ Dunkirk
Dear Residents,
Wow! I can’t believe we are at the end of the year again, and my favourite time of year is here! It just seems to bring out the best in people and we really see that wonderful community spirit shine through.
Thank you to all those folks who attended the AGM at the end of October. We had a fantastic turnout, and it is encouraging to see so many owners taking an active interest in the runnings of the Estate. It was also nice to have some time to chat with everyone afterward. As always, Ray’s Kitchen provided an excellent
array of snacks and the staff had everyone well looked after.
Looking back on the year, it has been an extremely busy one but also a very satisfying one. I have met and come to know many of you lovely folks and look forward to getting to know more as we start the new year.
with family, I would like to encourage everyone to think a little outside of ourselves and our fences and of others less fortunate. I know there are always a lot of charities clamouring for attention at this time of the year. As much as we would like to, it is impossible to support everyone.
As we move into the festive season and get ready for some special time
From an HOA perspective, we have supported a few that are close to our hearts. We made
donations to FreeMe Wildlife, C.R.O.W., Flag Animal Farm and Monkey Helpline this year. These organisations support us when we need help or advice regarding our wildlife.
We tried to encourage our residents to engage in and support “Santa Shoebox” but were a little slow off the mark this year. We will get started and send out reminders to encourage people to contribute a little earlier next year. Our thanks to Natalie Smith for her passion and willingness to chat about this project and her help alongside our involvement.
She made up two boxes on behalf of the office and advised a few other folks on theirs. I am sure we can get that number up by a few more next year.
keep this one short. We have lots of new projects to look forward to next year and some that we will continue from this year, but that’s a tale for the next edition…
For our Christmas Santa event at the Beach Club this year, we would like to help Summerhill House and will send out their wishlist beforehand when we advise on the date. We would like to encourage everyone to bring something from their wishlist as well as presents for your own children. I’m going to
A quick reminder that if you are going to let your home out over the holidays, you need to be registered with the HOA. Please check the Rules for Short-Term Letting beforehand. You can contact our managing agent, Utopia, at dunkirk@holidayrentals.co.za to register and for any information.
They will take care of the details for you. So, from myself and all the HOA staff, we wish you a very happy festive and holiday season whatever you may celebrate. If you are going away, then safe travels on your holidays.
I look forward to hearing all the stories when you come home again to Dunkirk.
Natasha Strong Estate Manager
Clubhouse Manager’s Newsletter
Greetings World Champions,
In the recent pages of history, South Africa has etched a new chapter, one resonating with the triumphant cheers of a nation united. The victory of our Springbok rugby team in the World Cup has not only brought home a prestigious trophy but has ignited a flame of inspiration and unity that transcends the boundaries of sports in our country.
In the midst of our daily challenges, our resounding success on the rugby field serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when a diverse group of individuals
comes together with a common purpose. The journey to the World Cup win was a testament to the indomitable spirit and determination that defines us all as South Africans.
Ray’s Bathroom Upgrade
The bathroom revamp at the Clubhouse was completed on 25 November 2023. We sincerely acknowledge and apologise for any inconveniences caused to Ray’s Kitchen, Home Ground Real Estate and all the offices and apartments in Dash and Forest
that have had to contend with noise and disruptions during this period. It will be well worth it and shows the HOA’s dedication to not only maintaining the clubhouses but also to the overall transformation of all our facilities.
Beach Club
As part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing your clubhouse experience and securing and protecting our facilities, new fencing has been approved for the Beach Club, which began at the
end of November with completion anticipated before the holiday season.
The replacement of the main gate and concrete support structure during the Beach Club upgrade may result in a temporary closure for vehicles and disruptions.
We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and patience during this period of improvement. This enhancement aims to elevate the visual appeal of the Beach Club while improving
security for those enjoying the privacy of this wonderful feature of our Estate on the coast.
In closing, I’d like to wish all our residents a happy festive season and a safe return home from your travels.
Warm regards,
Wade Brownlie
A New Chapter AT THE BEACH CAFÉ
I'm Hadley Matthews, and it's my pleasure to announce that, starting 1 December 2023, I will be the new face of The Beach Café.
With a rich background in hospitality and marketing, I'm thrilled to
bring a blend of culinary delights and a homely atmosphere to this beautiful seaside space.
At our café, you'll find not only me but also my husband, Charles, and occasionally our little daughter, Noa, adding to the warm, family-
friendly vibe. We're committed to offering mouth-watering food, unique drinks, and an engaging community experience that resonates with the prestigious spirit of Dunkirk.
Join us for a refreshing experience where every visit feels like a seaside getaway. We can't wait to welcome you and become a cherished part of your daily life in Dunkirk.
THE IMPORTANCE OF KZN’S
Coastal Grasslands
“But it’s just grass.” For centuries, grasslands have been regarded as less important than forests. Until recently, we have only been able to scratch the surface of the immense role grasslands and wetlands play in our ecosystems.
Due to KZN’s dramatic variation in altitude, it supports a variety of different grassland types. Here on the North Coast of KZN, sandy coastal grassland is present. Unfortunately, we have lost around 90% of the original extent of our east coastal grasslands, and it is now considered critically endangered.
The rapid expansion of land for the sugar industry led to most of its destruction in the past century. However, encroachment of bush on the remaining fragmented grassland is continually a problem.
Coastal grasslands support a huge variety of fauna and flora including the endangered Pickersgill’s reed frog and black coucal which have disappeared from much of their range. It is vital that we protect, preserve and manage the last remnants of our coastal grassland to help ensure its persistence as a major roleplayer in our local ecosystems.
On the Wild Side
It's always beneficial to stay in an environmentally friendly estate, which is why we organise environmental talks for our residents on a regular basis. Recently, we hosted a talk, titled “The Rise of the Phoenix”, which was conducted by the expert team at FreeMe Wildlife. The turnout was fantastic, and we appreciate all the donations that were made during the event. Our residents gained valuable insights into wildlife and conservation efforts.
Time to Get Spooky
Just like every year, on 31 October, we celebrated Halloween with all the residents and their little ones. Everyone gathered at the fountain and went door-to-door for treats, which was an absolute delight for the kids. They wandered around in their extravagant outfits while the homes were beautifully decorated. Parents go out of their way for this festivity, so this year we decided to reward the homes that were decorated the best. Four homes were awarded vouchers from Ray’s Kitchen. The Ford Family at 204 Sameja Drive won the first prize with
their wonderful effort and the smoking cauldron! The runner-up prizes went to the Da Silva family at 47 Glades Drive, the Gardner family at 77 Forest Lane, and the De Jager family at 109 Glades Drive.
Thank you for your effort! We look forward to next year’s spooky Halloween!
“Some people are born for Halloween, and some are just counting the days until Christmas.” - Stephen Graham Jones
2023 Market Day
We organise an annual Market Day event for children where we give them a chance to develop entrepreneurial skills, like product development, marketing and financial management. The event helps them learn the process of creating and selling a product, which is a valuable skill in the real world. Every year, they showcase their impressive entrepreneurial skills.
CORAL COVE IS BREAKING GROUND!
EXTRAORDINARY LIVING
FOR THE BEST YEARS OF YOUR LIFE
We are delighted to announce that construction has commenced for Coral Cove.
With the July 2023 commencement date, move-in dates for residents will be before the end of 2024. All garden villas, apartments, communal areas and care centre of Coral Cove will be operational and complete, affording residents the opportunity to utilise the full array of Auria’s facilities and services.
Coral Cove by Auria Senior Living is a 21-hectare continuing-care, purpose-built retirement community for over 70’s, situated on the magnificent KZN North Coast, within the safety and serenity of the Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate.
2 & 3 Bedroom Garden Villas from R3,6m
1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments from R1,69m
BOOK A TOUR OF OUR SHOW UNIT.
Sales Enquiries: 087 537 0539 | coralcove@auria.co.za | www.auria.co.za
ChristmasMean to You? What Does
It's Christmas time once again, and people from all over the world are busy preparing for their version of a Christmas dinner. This holiday is a time for family reunions and bonding, renewing friendships, and celebrating one's beliefs and customs. While Christmas is primarily a celebration of the birth of Jesus, which brings a message of peace and hope, the stress of preparing for the season often overshadows this joyous occasion.
During the Christmas season, parties have become a significant aspect of the celebrations. There are various parties held in the office and community, among friends and associates. It is challenging to decline invitations, so attending them has become a social obligation. Although parties are enjoyable,
the true essence of Christmas has been overshadowed by all the excitement.
Although the true meaning of Christmas seems to have been forgotten by many, there are still various interpretations of what Christmas signifies. Here are some examples from our residents:
• Christmas is not just about exchanging gifts, but also about
commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.
• Christmas is a time to spend with loved ones and family.
• Christmas is a time of fun, opening gifts, and spending time with family, especially for those who have school or work holidays.
• It is a time to reflect on what truly matters in life.
• It is a time to remember the birth of Jesus and to extend care and generosity to those who are less fortunate.
• Christmas is about showing empathy and compassion towards others.
• It is a time to spread happiness and joy to those around us.
• It is a time to express gratitude towards God.
The message of Christmas is crystal clear. It is a time to spend more quality time with family, express gratitude, spread love and joy, share with others, and honour the birth of the Savior, Jesus Christ. These are the fundamental meanings of Christmas for many people. This is what Christmas means for a few of our lovely residents:
RESIDENTS
THE FORD KIDDOS POSE IN THEIR MATCHING CLOTHES
FATHER CHRISTMAS ALWAYS PHONES ON CHRISTMAS EVE TO CHECK IF EVERYONE HAS BEEN GOOD
WUTH FAMILY
A Christmas Spread by Ray’s Kitchen
This year, we’ve chosen three dishes that, if you nail them, you can serve altogether and tick all the boxes for a fantastic Christmas lunch. Because Christmas in KZN is always uncomfortably hot, two of the dishes are served chilled. This also means you can do all the work the day before and actually enjoy Christmas Day without slogging away in the kitchen all day. Don’t be scared to add some extras along the way (like chilli) as I’ve tried to make the dishes as broadly appealing as possible.
The Perfect Gammon RECIPE
We cooked two of these last year and there were no leftovers!
INGREDIENTS
• Uncooked gammon on the bone (from a reputable butcher or grocer)
• 10 bay leaves
• 1 halved onion, peeled
• ½ bunch celery, roughly chopped
• 1 large carrot, roughly chopped
• For the Basting
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1/2 cup real maple syrup
• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp English mustard
• Cloves
• For the Sauce
• 3 cups Hellmann’s Original Mayonnaise
• 3 tbsp real runny honey
• 1 tbsp hot English mustard
• 1 bunch chives, finely chopped
METHOD
1. To poach your gammon, place it in a large pot and cover it with filtered water.
2. To the simmering water, add the bay leaves, onion, celery and carrot.
4. Place it into the oven at 220°C. The fat will begin to brown. You can now start to brush your basting sauce over the gammon every 10 minutes until it is sticky and golden in colour.
5. To make the basting, whisk together all the ingredients in a large bowl.
6. To make the sauce, simply mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
3. The best cooking time guideline is an hour for every kilogram of gammon. Once the gammon is cooked, gently peel off the skin and score the fat.
7. Serve the gammon chilled or at room temperature, thinly sliced, with the simple sauce.
Raya’s Cold Seafood and Saffron Rice Salad
Serves 10
INGREDIENTS
• 2kg L2 prawns, cleaned and shelled
• 500g squid, cleaned
• 200g half shell mussels
• 1 bunch spring onion, finely chopped
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 bunch celery with leaves, finely chopped
• 1 big bunch basil, washed and chopped
• 1 big bunch Italian parsley, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/3 cup baby capers
• 3 cups basmati rice, cooked and chilled (when cooking the rice, add a pinch of fine saffron to the water. Don't forget a bit of salt when cooking the rice)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1.5 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper grounds
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
METHOD
1. In a big pot of boiling water seasoned with salt, blanch the seafood for 90 seconds.
2. Strain the seafood out with a slotted spoon directly into a bowl with ice and water to stop the cooking and brighten the seafood
3. Mix the chilled seafood with the oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper and paprika, then mix in the rest of the ingredients.
4. Rest for an hour in the fridge before serving.
Butternut, Spinach and Feta Phyllo Bake
One large, deep-roasting tray
Serves 10
INGREDIENTS
• 5 bunches of good-looking spinach
• 2 large butternuts
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper, for seasoning
• Cumin, for seasoning
• 1 tub Greek feta
• 1 box phyllo pastry sheets
• Olive oil
• 1/2 block melted butter
• Dried red chilli
• Sesame seeds
METHOD
1. Peel, clean and cube the two butternuts. Season with salt, pepper and cumin. Roast at 180°C on a backing tray until soft with a little olive oil.
2. De-stalk the spinach and place it in a big pot with a splash of water. Put on the lid and steam until cooked. Allow to cool in a colander and then squeeze the liquid out by placing the cooked leaves in the middle of a clean dishcloth and gently twisting the cloth. Leave the spinach to chill and then chop it up.
3. Mix the butternut into the spinach, keeping it quite chunky. Add the crumbled Greek feta and mix well.
4. Leaving your mixture to chill, grab your box of phyllo pastry sheets (defrosted). Brush each sheet with butter and layer your baking dish. Start with your pastry, then add a thin layer of spinach and butternut mix, doing so until the mix is finished and the baking dish is full. The final layer of the dish should be two well-buttered phyllo sheets roughly crumpled on top. These will crisp in the oven
beautifully. Before baking, sprinkle sesame seeds and dried red chilli onto the crumpled sheets.
5. Bake at 190°C until golden all over.
6. Serve immediately.
SAVE THE DATE
FATHER CHRISTMAS GIFT GIVING
Date: 13th December 2023
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
