Le Domaine Estate Magazine December 2023

SUMMER 2023

SOCIAL PILATES with Sybille

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS

"There's One Thing on My Bucket List..."

French connection

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 1

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Contents

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Chairman’s Communique

Chairman Peter Dixon shares a detailed update on all Estate happenings. Learn more about our waterways and security measures.

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Le Domaine Snippets

The residents of Le Domaine are always up to something!

Catch up with all the latest events.

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Social Pilates with Sybille

The ladies love the social Pilates class, now run by Sybille. They share the benefits of joining this class, both physical and mental.

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Writer’s Circle

We have two very different stories from the Writer’s Circle, both following the prompt “There’s one thing on my bucket list…”

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, FABMAGS cannot be held responsible for any omission or errors, or for any misfortune, injury or damages that may arise there from. FabMags is a privately owned and funded company and is not subsidised by Le Domaine.

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Esme Smith’s Best Chocolate Cake

In this edition, resident Esme shares her recipe for the most delicious chocolate cake with chocolate icing.

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PUBLISHER Lorinda Scott 082 562 7202 | lorinda@fabmags.co.za GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michaela Naidoo | michaela@fabmags.co.za SALES EXECUTIVE Natasha Minnaar 061 747 1093 | natasha@fabmags.co.za SALES DIRECTOR Lucille Wendler 083 747 3694 | lucille@fabmags.co.za OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Sharlene Odayar | sharlene@fabmags.co.za IN-HOUSE COPY EDITOR Jordyn Trollip | jordyn@fabmags.co.za ACCOUNTS Fay Horack | accounts@fabmags.co.za CONTACT FABMAGS 032 946 0357 Suite 104, San Hall Office Park, Kirsty Close, Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal WEBSITE www.fabmags.co.za ONLINE www.issuu.com/fabmags PRINTED BY ROC Media COVER PHOTO Le Domaine Estate FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 3

We Specialise in Gated Estates!

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WE ARE YOUR ACCREDITED LE DOMAINE AGENTS

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Contact us

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IMPORTANT

NUMBERS 100 Acutts Drive Hillcrest www.ledom.co.za Reception Office Hours: Monday to Friday 08:15 to 16:00

031 716 8000

BODY CORPORATE TRUSTEES Chairman: Peter Dixon Vice Chairperson: Trish Brouwer, Dave Gibbon, Eileen Hart, Bob Hayes, Lesley Heger, David Martin, Dr Shaun Martin & Neville Rudman KEY PEOPLE & CONTACTS Estate Manager Frances Mans estatemanager@bcld.co.za PA to Estate Manager Jo La Réservée emassist@bcld.co.za Financial Manager Lesley Clark financemanager@bcld.co.za Finance Admin Susan Zaayman admin@bcld.co.za Jo-Anne Hounsom accounts@bcld.co.za Maintenance Call Centre Glenda Coetzee callcentre@bcld.co.za All maintenance, irrigation and gardening on common property requests to be logged on For any after hours maintenance emergencies dial After hours means: Monday to Friday from 16:00 to 08:00, as well as weekends and public holidays Lifestyle Co-ordinator Lydelle Goddard lifestyle@bcld.co.za Residents Information Desk Zietske de Villiers reception@bcld.co.za SERVICES Care Centre wendy@ledomainecare.co.za Laundrette Lodge Digital - supersonic Greg Taylor Greg.Taylor@supersonic.co.za Marc Chapman Marc.Chapman@supersonic.co.za Excellerate - security services Clinton Botha - clint@ledom.co.za Main Gate Health Hydro thehealthhydro@gmail.com Hairdressing Salon talitha200@gmail.com Mode de Vie - Bar and Restaurant catering@ledom.co.za MEDICAL EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE Please call Security on who will contact MEDITECH Emergency Services

ext 8025

ext 8021 ext 8022

ext 8017 8998

ext 8018 ext 8000

ext 8450 ext 8699 ext 8450 ext 8005

ext 8998 or 071 475 3664 ext 8056 ext 8054 ext 8089

ext 8998 or 071 475 3664

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 5

SAY HI! BEFOR E 31 AND G O INTST OF JAN DRAWO A LUCKY TO

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3-COU RSE D THE B INNER FOR LACK RABB 2 AT IT

Le Domaine, Office Block | 031 761 4700

DYKES VAN HEERDEN ATTORNEYS AND CONVEYANCERS

#GoingBeyond

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Editor’s Note

FROM THE EDITOR

A

s we approach the festive season, our hearts are filled with the warmth of Christmas and the solemn reflection of Remembrance Day. These two occasions, though distinct in their significance, intertwine in a wreath of gratitude, love and cherished memories.

Christmas, a time of joy and togetherness, brings families and friends together to celebrate the spirit of giving. It is a season where laughter echoes through the home, and the twinkle of lights casts a warm glow on the faces of those gathered. The aroma of festive feasts fills the air, and the joy of gift-giving becomes a tangible expression of love.

Simultaneously, Remembrance Day urges us to pause and honour the sacrifices of those who fought valiantly for the freedoms we hold dear. It is a day of quiet reflection, a moment to remember the heroes

who selflessly gave their all for a brighter, more peaceful future. The solemnity of this day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

In this confluence of Christmas Day and Remembrance Day, we can find an opportunity to infuse our celebrations with a deeper sense of gratitude and meaning.

As we spend time with our loved ones and enjoy yummy meals together, let us also reflect on the blessings of freedom and peace that have been secured through the courage of others, not just in times past but even the present actions of quiet heroes.

Why not consider incorporating elements of remembrance into your Christmas Day festivities? Spend a moment in quiet thought about someone who played a role in moulding your character and path

as a child, perhaps a mentor, older sibling or pioneer in their field. This blending of joy and reflection fosters a rich and meaningful atmosphere, reminding us that this season is not about presents under the tree but also about the spirit of gratitude. As South Africans, Thanksgiving is not one of our customary celebrations, but we can certainly benefit from its principles and practice.

As we gather with loved ones during this festive season, let us carry in our hearts the dual themes of Christmas Day and Remembrance Day. In doing so, we honour the past, celebrate the present, and embrace the hope of a future filled with kindness and love.

Lifestyle-Co Ordinator

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LUNCH

Specials

FOR ONLY R99-00

AT LE DOMAINE ESTATE

Available from 12:00 to 15:00 Tuesday to Saturday only Don’t forget our lovely Sunday Buffet Lunch - eat as much as you like! 3 x roasts with soup and dessert only R119-00

Everyone is welcome.

Booking is essential!

All meals are served with one of the following beverages: Robertsons Crisp Dry White, Robertsons Smooth Dry Red, Robertsons Sweet Rosé, fruit juice, a cup of cappuccino or americano coffee

BABY HAKE Fried or grilled hake served with chips, rice, veg or salad and tartare sauce

BEEF OR CHICKEN BURGER Char-grilled 200g beef patty or chicken fillet served on a seeded bun, with traditional burger garnish and chips

BABY CHICKEN SCHNITZEL Served with cheese or mushroom sauce and chips, salad, rice or veg

POT PIE OF DAY

Served with mashed potatoes, chips or vegetables

BANGERS AND MASH 2 x pork bangers on a bed of thyme-infused mashed potatoes, vegetables and gravy

GRILLED CHICKEN OR CALAMARI SALAD Salad greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes and olives

YOUR HOSTS MALCOLM & FIONA

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Office: 031-716 8647 | Restaurant: 031-716 8089 catering@ledom.co.za

management

From the Desk of Your

Estate Manager

Please see the photo of some of the award winners. Well done to all our winners!

By the time you receive a copy of this edition of the French Connection, you will have received the 2024 levy increase notice. You’ll be pleased to note that the levy increase for 2024 has been carefully considered, with the ageing infrastructure of this large Estate being top of mind. We must, once again, mention that we are very fortunate that our Levy Stabilisation Fund (LSF) assists in keeping the levy increases to a minimum. On behalf of the Body Corporate team and our service providers, we would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a happy holiday season and a peaceful Christmas. May the start of 2024 be positive and bright.

With warmest regards

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I would like to thank each and every team member for assisting in making Le Domaine run like clockwork and the best Estate to

Please see the list of names of the Manqoba Award winners for July to September 2023: • Savuka: Zama Cele • Excellerate: Prudence Shange, Doctor Mzolo and Thobani Maphumulo • Maintenance / Lifestyle: Numbuso Majola, Nosipho Sibisi, Barry Zondi, Lucky Buthelezi, Edson Garikai, Jacob Kokoana and Ntombi Khumalo • Servest: Thabiso Nxumalo, Blessing Mgwengwe, Sivuyile Gumede, Mzokukhanya Chiliza,

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As we near the end of another crazy, busy year, it is unbelievable to think that next year we will celebrate the coming of age of Le Domaine (20 going on 21 years) and my 15th year of being your Estate Manager. While we are on the subject of celebrations, Skye (my daughter, whom most of you know of and often ask me about) turned 13 years young a few weeks ago. If you remember, she was born in 2010 - just a year and a half after I started at Le Domaine.

I am so very proud of the beautiful teenage girl she has become.

Asande Ntaka, Bongumusa Mtshali, Jabu Myeza and Zanele Mabhida • Supersonic: Zane Davies • Admin / Management: Dieter Hiestermann, Jo-Anne Hounsom and Zietske de Villiers • Le Domaine Care: Calem Williams and Sunshine Siyaya • Residents: Jim Barrow We also gave out two special awards, The Boomerang Award went to Jo La Réservée and The Super Tolerance Award was awarded to Perfect Ntini.

live in. A big shout-out goes to our Board of Trustees as well as selected residents for volunteering their valuable time and efforts in their respective portfolios. Thank you to all our residents and owners for your continued support.

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Hello Le Domaine family,

Client:

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Job:

Mongoba

Date:

11.10.23

Rev A: Initial Artwor

Chairman’s

Communique Chairman Peter Dixon shares the ins and outs of what the Body Corporate has been working on, from updates to the waterways to all Le Domaine’s security measures.

N

ow that the colder months are behind us, we look forward to the freshness and renewal that summer brings. Those residents who enjoy walking along the pathways adjacent to the meandering waterways will have noticed that a huge effort has been put into clearing the overgrown vegetation and reeds in the dams as well as the rejuvenation of flower beds with new plants.

The Gardens team has been very busy during the winter months, as per the Service Level Agreement, cleaning up waterways and indigenous corridors. Servest has upgraded and renewed their contract to include two additional staff members and equipment to more effectively manage and maintain the gardens.

In addition to this, equipment nearing the end of its useful life has been replaced. We have already seen a revitalisation in the service

offering since the implementation of the new Service Level Agreement.

We envisage that this will enable continuity and stability in the coming years.

It is also a good time to note that Le Domaine was entered into the South African Landscapers Institute Awards for 2023, on behalf of Servest, and emerged with a Silver Award.

The Gardens Committee reiterates the Estate’s commitment to the environment and emphasises the need for the waterways and indigenous corridors to be kept as natural as possible. We endeavour to maintain a comfortable and welcoming ecosystem for the many bird species and other small creatures that have made their homes with us.

Unfortunately, residents will also have experienced a deterioration in the quality of the water in our

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waterways, with green algae floating in some of the dams accompanied by unpleasant smells. While the quantity of grey water being received has increased, almost to contract levels, the quality has deteriorated markedly over the past few weeks. The water smells strongly of hydrogen sulphide and has the propensity to form a slimy, foaming form of green algae on the surface of our dams, which is unsightly.

Le Domaine has a contractual arrangement with Fisher Road Water Service Provider (FRWSP). FRWSP treats all our sewerage in their recycling plant, before discharging the treated grey water into a storage dam at Fisher Road. This grey water is used to irrigate the Cotswold Downs golf course and supply Le Domaine with 300,000 litres per day to be used in our fountains, waterways and irrigation systems.

Cotswold Downs has established that

Admin

the main cause of the smell in the water is coming from the leaching of the sulphide deposits that have built up in the plastic irrigation pipes. We have decided to focus on finding a sulphide scavenger to remove these deposits and consequently the smell.

The Fisher Road plant has been adding Baczyme as a treatment aid, primarily to reduce the strong sulphide smell of the water. Baczyme is a biodegradable and biologically active product that is used in wastewater, sewerage and septic tank systems for bioremediation.

They have recently been negotiating with a company called Odour Engineering Systems on three issues: 1. To dose the grey water with a product called Limin8. This is a sulphide scavenger. We have been assured that the dosage rate is very low and will not be harmful to fish and aquatic life in our waterways.

2. Cotswold Downs will be adding a product called Waterco Microbe-Aid to the large Fisher Road dam. This is a product specifically blended to contain natural aerobic and anaerobic bacteria to improve performance in low-oxygen environments and will liquefy or decompose organic waste. Should this

RECENTLY REFRESHED CLUB BATHROOM

work effectively, we will be a beneficiary of this process 3. They will also be introducing an effective aeration system into the Fisher Road dam. The system has two sets of four aerator pods and a compressor to provide sufficient air to aerate effectively.

We will monitor the supply of grey water closely to see what the impact on our waterways will be and if there is a significant improvement. We have also decided to engage with an independent laboratory that will take water samples to analyse monthly until such time that we are satisfied with the quality of the water.

Another project that we would like to consider in the new financial year will be the search for water on the Estate. We believe that there may be underground water on a site in an accessible location within the Estate.

Should we be successful, we will be able to ensure a continuous supply of water to the Estate.

In my previous communique, I mentioned that the Trustees are looking at alternate energy sources for the Estate. Our energy and efficiency committee has been working tirelessly to find the best solution for all residents. At this stage, the preferred option includes

a combination of solar panels, a generator and smart meters. The committee is currently exploring the funding options available, and it is hoped that a Special General Meeting will be called before the end of the year to discuss with, and hopefully gain the support of, the residents of Le Domaine. Our objective is to come up with a solution that will provide us with a continuous power supply to eliminate the frequent and potentially prolonged power interruptions, at a cheaper rate than Eskom rates.

Currently, a total of 38 individuals have installed solar systems at a cost of between R180,000 and R250,000 per installation. Although not off the grid, these residents have benefitted from substantial savings through the use of solar power and will only need to be dependent on the Eskom supply if their battery capacity is depleted.

Our Lifestyle Committee has completed the revamp of the restaurant and entrance area of the Club de Vie and has been concentrating on the design and refurbishment of other areas within the Club. The upgrade of the multipurpose room (MPR) is almost complete and will be ‘unveiled’ shortly. A solid wall now separates the MPR from the heated pool and, with the new flooring and relaxed decor, this area is sure to attract a larger range of activities in the future.

The revamping of the upstairs ladies’ bathroom is underway. This project has been very time-consuming and has required multiple trips to tile and bathroom showrooms before making final decisions. Although there will be some disruption during the remodelling process, we do hope that the result will be worth the inconvenience. Following this will be the painting of the portico and entrance doors and addressing the storage facilities within the Club.

Numerous other improvement projects are on our list, such as

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 11

AN EVENT AT THE AMPHITHEATRE

the indoor pool area and change rooms. Some items will, however, have to wait until next year due to budget constraints and the limited availability of our maintenance team to carry out certain projects at present. There is a fine line between ‘refresh’ and maintenance, and we are extremely fortunate to have such a competent team to assist with the ongoing refresh of our facilities, as their input constitutes a significant financial saving to the necessary modernisation and upgrading projects.

Our Estate is not only home to our residents, but also to an abundance of bird life and several small animals, many of which are nocturnal and not often seen. These include cane rats, African suricates (meerkats), porcupines, rock hyrax (dassies) and steenbok.

The Trustees recently commissioned KZN Wildlife to undertake a survey of the wildlife on the Estate, which established that we have an overpopulation of dassies. These dassies are now a danger to our residents as they are making homes on open patios and in roof spaces of a number of the units, as well as living in all the stormwater drains.

We have been informed that dassies carry diseases that are dangerous to humans, and therefore we must reduce the population. The Trustees

have authorised KZN Wildlife to remove a quantifiable number of dassies from various areas within the Estate and relocate them elsewhere.

We have already purchased four of the traps as suggested by the KZN Wildlife representatives.

Our security is something that we tend to take for granted, but few of us know the full extent of the security arrangement on the Estate. The extensive four-kilometre perimeter of Le Domaine Estate is meticulously fortified, consisting of 28 distinct security zones. Each pair of zones is energised and continually monitored by dedicated energisers, each equipped with its own battery backup power system. These zones are further classified into low and high-voltage segments. In areas where a 28-strand electric fence is installed, anti-dig devices have been strategically placed to enhance security.

The electric fence is subjected to continuous surveillance through a sophisticated monitoring software system. This cutting-edge software provides real-time voltage readings and alarms for each zone and voltage area. The Security Control Room, staffed around the clock, serves as the nerve centre for overseeing this system. In addition to the electric fence monitoring, each fence zone is under the watchful eye of closed-

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circuit television (CCTV) cameras.

The placement of these cameras is carefully determined based on factors such as the specific area to be observed, foliage density, and geographical layout, among other considerations. These cameras are handpicked to align with their respective roles, comprising Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR), day-night IP cameras and pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras. They are strategically positioned to provide comprehensive coverage of both the exterior and interior sections of the perimeter wall, facilitating a proactive security approach.

All camera feeds are securely transmitted to the Control Room via a dedicated and independent fibre network. The 72 cameras on the Estate are further bolstered with advanced analytics capabilities, encompassing features like human detection and motion tracking. These analytics serve as invaluable tools for security personnel who continuously monitor the live camera feeds 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The perimeter is subdivided into three sections, each patrolled by an external security officer. The patrols are initiated randomly using a GPS patrol device, which is monitored both on-site and remotely. Inside the Estate, a similar tri-sectioned approach is employed, with internal patrol guards responsible for their designated sections, including monitoring the internal wall perimeter and respective areas. The movements of these patrol guards are continuously tracked via GPS devices, providing real-time oversight in the Security Control Room.

Gate access at Le Domaine Estate is highly secure and meticulously managed. Visitors are registered through a scanning process, which includes scanning their driver’s licence and vehicle licence disk.

This process is fully compliant with

Admin

the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) regulations and is linked to the national database. It automatically retrieves and cross-references vehicle details, triggering alarms if any discrepancies or concerns arise.

The visitor’s driver’s licence is also scanned, extracting pertinent information and verifying the authenticity of the cardholder. All data is securely stored off-site, with a redacted version retained on-site. In special circumstances, visitors are registered using facial recognition software, granting approved access. Individual access rights are meticulously managed through the access control system.

The Security Control Room is manned around the clock and serves as the central hub for real-time monitoring of various security elements, including access transactions, fence alarms, camera systems, guard tracking via GPS devices, and cellphone panic alarms. In case of panic alarms, the Control Room can immediately pinpoint the location of the activated alarms and facilitate an emergency response.

SNIPR cameras, deployed around Le Domaine, are continuously monitored.

These cameras are accessible to us

BCLD ADMIN LADIES ON SPRING DAY

and are capable of reading vehicle registrations, conducting status checks, and triggering alarms in cases of national criminal involvement or suspicious activity.

This allows our controllers to preemptively respond at the gates. Each gate is equipped with a minimum of eight cameras, including internal gatehouse cameras to monitor guards and searches, driver facial recognition cameras, and vehicle registration cameras.

To ensure ongoing security enhancements, new measures are consistently introduced after rigorous testing. Presently, all staff entering the Contractors’ Gate are required to undergo facial recognition authentication linked to the access software. We are presently testing a system that tracks deliveries and couriers in real-time while on the Estate. This system provides precise location and speed data, recording this information for future reference.

Furthermore, the implementation of the visitor PIN code access system by OneSpace is integral in optimising visitor processing speed and validation and managing gate congestion. OneSpace employs purpose-built, robust hardware to ensure swift and seamless operations at the gate.

Data is securely stored and readily accessible in the cloud, rendering OneSpace a convenient, POPI Act-compliant solution for visitor management. OneSpace excels in swiftly and accurately recording visitor details, providing peace of mind through a digital, secure report that can be accessed and analysed at any juncture.

This streamlined process not only reduces time consumption but also minimises liability, aligning with contemporary risk management practices. The system is designed to eliminate unnecessary thirdparty human intervention, thus

LOVELY LADIES HELEN AND NOSIPHO

ensuring that a visitor’s presence is authenticated by a current resident.

The expansion of the Main Gate exit, mirroring the entrance design, is poised to further enhance the efficiency of visitor processing during departures from the Estate, all while maintaining a smooth flow for resident egress. These continuous efforts underscore our commitment to maintaining state-of-the-art security at Le Domaine Estate.

In conclusion, I am pleased to report that our actual income and expenditure for the year to date continue to be very close to the budget set for the 2023 financial year. The return on our investments is currently very satisfactory with our investments having increased by 12.8% during the eight months to the end of August 2023, which equates to an annualised return of 19.2%.

Kind regards

Peter Dixon Chairman The Body Corporate of Le Domaine

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Le LeDomaine Domaine

Snippets

Celebrating Spring This September, Picardi Village hosted a delightful spring tea to celebrate the start of the new season.

A Trip to the Sea Many residents joined a bus trip to and tour of the National Sea Rescue Institute in October 2023.

A Day at Suncoast Casino Residents had a fun day at Suncoast Casino and enjoyed all the entertainment on offer.

Monthly Bingo Night Donations to The Jes Foord Foundation Volunteers from The Jes Foord Rape Crisis Centre packed care packs with essentials that have been generously donated by our Le Domaine residents.

The project founders, volunteers and victims are very appreciative of all your donations and would like to extend their gratitude.

Have you joined our Bingo Night? Look in the monthly planner for this once-monthly event. There’s loads of fun, entertainment and prizes for all. Bingo Night is hosted by HSG Attorneys, a law firm based in Westville and Cape Town, who are property law specialists and conveyancers.

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Business on the Estate

Seasons Greetings from

The Salon Another year of making you beautiful! The Salon team shares a heartfelt thank you to our clients. We wish you a very merry Christmas and best wishes for 2024.

Love from Talitha, Martie and Victoria

Happy Holidays

from The

Health Hydro The Health Hydro team would like to thank all our wonderful present (and future clients) for your support this year. We are so grateful to know you all and hope your festive season is extra special and filled with friends, family and lots of joy.

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health

SOCIAL PILATES WITH SYBILLE WORDS MARGIE BROWN

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ocial Pilates happens twice a week in the multi-purpose room next to the indoor pool.

It’s an amazing asset to Le Domaine and has survived over 14 years, mainly due to the generosity of those who have led it.

The early days saw four ladies and one gent working under the expert guidance of Carol Lees, who was responsible for initiating this free, social Pilates class. After that, Carol Mary Howard kindly and competently took the leadership role. Now, it is Sybille Macfarlane who is currently leading the group.

We owe these three ladies so much for freely giving their time and expertise.

Sybille aims to: • increase our muscles' strength, flexibility and tone, • improve our balance, and • work on building strong core

muscles (including our lower back, hips, stomach and bottom).

We asked for feedback from the ladies who join the class each week. We firmly believe that as we get older, it is important to keep moving. It seems our aims are being achieved: • “My energy levels are better, I feel supple for my age, my tummy muscles have tightened, and my posture has improved.”

• “The nucleus of the group is consistent and we are moving on to a more advanced level.”

• “Each week, we use different apparatus, balls, bands and weights, and then freestyle (which means no apparatus that week).”

• “It sets me up for the day and even improves my mood.”

• “Sybille is a great leader. She leads by example with her fitness, poise and posture. She has a warm and caring personality and

is always well-prepared. We are fortunate to have her and I’m grateful for her dedication.”

And a comment from one of the naughty children…

• “Wow - the moans and groans from the creaking bones!”

Throughout the group, there is a consistent perception from everybody that we are a friendly bunch of ladies. Sybille encourages us to socialise with the occasional coffee and cake after a session and a group lunch from time to time.

“I’m so blessed to be with such an amazing group of ladies,” says Sybille. “They work hard and I’m so very proud of them.”

Finally, here is a comment from a relatively new member: “I have really felt the benefit. You can go at your own pace. Try it!”

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 17

Writer’s We decided to publish two entries from our Writer’s Circle in this edition. The brief was: “There’s one thing on my bucket list…” The stories illustrate the diversity of thought among our members, and we warmly welcome new, like-minded residents to our group. Please contact our Lifestyle Co-ordinator for more details.

THERE’S ONE THING ON MY BUCKET LIST… Words by Keith Wishart Thank you, Mum and Dad. You always told me that my childhood dreams would come to naught and that I was being naïve. As soon as I could talk, at about 17 months old, utter rubbish, said I. However, it wasn’t until very many years later, when I ruminated upon the five items that I had hankered to do all the years of my life, that maybe, just maybe, they had a point.

Childhood dreams? Bucket list items? I guess they are the same thing, but let me rather elucidate by example.

Since I was a child, I had always wanted to dog sleigh in the depths of Finland, riding roughshod over snow-covered mountain tops, shouting ‘Mush’ to the dogs at the top of my voice. I was then told that sleigh dogs poo on the run.

Now, call me Mr Old-Fashioned or whatever, but suddenly the idea became a little less attractive for the obvious reason of not wanting to open my mouth to shout anything when my words could be replaced by items of a less savoury nature.

Getting a tattoo as a bucket list item always sounded to me to be quite swanky – all my friends

would be envious of a half-sized nude of Raquel Welsh sexily slouched down the curvature of my back. Until, of course, I thought, but what happens when I get older and my own ‘skin suit’ is not as tight fitting as it was when younger? Would I need to get another tattoo superimposed on top of Raquel, holding onto a walking frame so that she remained upright despite the many creases and loose folds that would have accumulated by then? Maybe not.

Now, number three was a ‘cert’.

The idea of navigating a personal underwater submarine was always top of my bucket list, except when even that idea saw ‘sharp shrift’, especially when those five wealthy people went underwater and their submersible imploded when, ironically, they were fulfilling their bucket list for a glimpse of the Titanic! Enough said about number three!

Ah, now - something that would be terrific is a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. That could never be unsafe or dangerous, could it? Well, it wasn’t until I read a book written by Bill Bryson. He related a story of an American couple who had taken the trip. Three days later, the boat that had taken them to the Reef realised they were two people short

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returning from that trip, which I’m afraid, didn’t auger too well for the couple, after being left to swim a couple of kilometres to a raft, swimming over a well-known area that contained sharks. Obviously, Australian boatmen cannot count, so that dream suddenly departed.

Finally, swimming with stingrays – what could be safer? Everyone does it in the Seychelles. Until, of course, I read about Steve Urwin, the well-known Australian conservationist who had a stingray barb penetrate his chest and into his heart. OK then, maybe not!

So, thanks Mum and Dad for destroying my dreams. Who in the world would have thought that the

Circle only thing remaining on my bucket list that won’t hurt or shame me is the bucket itself?

OUT THE WINDOW Words by Stephanie Spender There had always been one thing on her bucket list, although at the age of seven, Veronica didn’t know there was such a list.

She wanted to fly! She climbed to the top - or very nearly - of the oak tree at the bottom of their garden.

She had put on her fairy wings, a present from Mum for her birthday, and this was the moment she would see if they worked. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes… then opened them again. Maybe it was rather high for a first attempt, so she shimmied down to a much lower branch, took another deep breath, spread out her wings, and jumped!

The ground came up awfully fast but she rolled quickly in the air protecting her wings, still hitting the ground with a resounding thump. Scratched, bruised and shaken, she sat still, thoughts whirring round her head faster than her little wings had flapped. She checked. Nothing hurt that badly.

Nothing broken. The resilience of childhood.

Now, fifty years later, having had many other physical and emotional adventures, getting scrapes and bumps whilst growing up, attending university, dating, walking down the aisle to marry her wonderful husband, Alan, and giving birth to four beautiful children, here she was.

She was staring at the awesome view in front of her. Her mind flicked back to when she was fifteen, having accepted a challenging “dare”. She had jumped off the garage roof onto the grass way below her. She remembered her childhood roll as the ground came up very quickly to greet her. Astoundingly, she was fine but no one else followed her.

She never did that again!

Famous last words. Here she was, tethered to Pieter, the South African Hang-glider Champion, about to jump into the air, but this time through God’s Window, into the panoramic, awesome valley below. For Veronica, this was the most sensational view in the whole world. It was an incredibly special gift from Alan who had organised the surprise.

Entertainment

reciprocated, but her feet could not touch the ground. The bar that held them together for her protection kept her at the level of his waist.

Her feet were uselessly beating a tattoo over the tops of the verdant grassland and flowers through which they were attempting to charge! There was no combined momentum.

The next thing, just before the edge of the cliff came any closer, Pieter stopped dead! The inevitable happened. They both tumbled, ignominiously to the ground accompanied by the roar of consternation from the watching crowd that quickly changed to an uproarious cacophony of laughter. Pieter and Veronica tried to disengage themselves from each other and the tangle of ropes and tackle of the hang-glider.

Mercifully, all was well other than the furious, embarrassing rush of blush on the faces of them both and some minor cuts and scrapes.

Surprisingly, there is still one thing on her bucket list!

There was one small problem.

Pieter, the Champion, was 6 ft 6 and she was 5 ft 2! “Run,” he yelled. “I am running!” she

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 19

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20 | FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE

nature

GET TO

KNOW OUR

MALE GREATER DOUBLE-COLLARED SUNBIRD SHOWING OFF ITS YELLOW EPAULETTES

T

he adult male Greater Double-Collored Sunbird has a glossy, metallic green head, throat, upper breast, and back. It has a broad, brilliant red band across the chest, separated from the green breast by a narrow metallic blue band. The rest of the

underparts are pale grey. When displaying, yellow feather tufts can be seen on the shoulders. As with other sunbirds, the bill is long and decurved.

The bill, legs and feet are black. The eye is dark brown. The male can be

PHOTO FRANK KIHN

distinguished from the similar lesser double-collared sunbird by the latter’s smaller size, narrower red chest band, and shorter bill. The call is a hard chut-chut-chut, and the song is a high-pitched jumble of tweets and twitters, richer than the calls of the lesser double-collared sunbird.

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 21

residents

Celebrating

60 Years Together Patrick (our former Chairman) and Rosemary Duffy from Brittany Village celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in September. They had the exciting privilege of a special card signed by the King and Queen of England.

Congratulations, Pat and Rosemary! We are blessed to have you at Le Domaine. You’re two halves of the same whole.

Inextricably linked, you’re the epitome of true love and marriage.

Happy 60th anniversary!

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RETIREMENT RETREAT GETAWAYS WITH AFRICA MEMORIES TRAVEL

• Enticing Bush, Beach & Berg getaways • Door to Door Service • Accompanied by a group host • Small, exclusive groups for maximum enjoyment • Transfers, quality accommodation, meals, activities & tours included • 2024 dates & prices being launched soon • Arrive as strangers, leave as friends www.africamemories.com/retirement-retreats 083 441 4514 | 082 889 3516 retreats@africamemories.com

22 | FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE

HEARING CARE AT LE DOMAINE HEALTH Mandy Pillay is Le Domaine's resident audiologist. She has assisted the estate's residents with hearing care for over a decade. Mandy is available at the Le Domaine Health facility by appointment. The following services are offered at medical aid rates: DIAGNOSTIC HEARING TESTS HEARING AIDS & FITTINGS HEARING AID ADJUSTMENTS

Central Bookings:

BATTERIES, DOMES , DRY CAPSULES RETUBING OF HEARING AIDS HEARING INFORMATION

031 701 8429

mandypillay@hit.co.za www.hearclear.co.za

VERTIGO & BALANCE ASSESSMENTS FREE HEARING SCREENING (BY APPOINTMENT ONLY)

Speak & Hear Clear Le Domaine Health Suite 53, Life the Crompton Hospital Suite 10, Busamed Hillcrest Private Hospital

residents

Supporting

Breast Cancer Awareness Month STORIES FROM LE DOMAINE RESIDENTS

T

he Estate was sprinkled with pink in October. Our maintenance and security vehicles proudly donned pink ribbons in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

We have many brave breast cancer warriors living amongst us here at Le Domaine. A few of them shared their stories with us: • “I have had cancer for 30 years. When they did a bilateral mastectomy, I was 37. I’m now 68 and have had cancer that has metastasised to various areas of my body (bowel, lymph and bone).

I have had a lot of surgeries over the past 30 years. A positive attitude is what has helped me survive this dreaded disease. I’m willing to help anyone that needs support or just to talk to them if needed.” - Theola Hirst • “In December 2019, I felt an unusual lump in my left breast. I

booked to have a mammogram in early January 2020 and ended up having an ultrasound and a biopsy. Four days later, I got a call from my gynae who unfortunately told me over the phone that I had breast cancer. I was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer stage 1. I immediately started chemotherapy, and then COVID hit and we were in lockdown. It was the worst time ever as I was unable to see anyone and had to go to my chemo sessions on my own.

In April, my oncologist decided it was best to have a mastectomy as the chemo was very tough on my body. By that time, COVID was quite serious. I went on to have chemo until July 2020, and today, 3.5 years later, I am still in remission. It was a tough journey but with my family and friends’ support and a strong, positive mind, I got through it. All I can say is do not wait until you

LEIGH AND THEOLA, TWO OF OUR BREAST CANCER WARRIORS

are 40. Breast cancer can happen at any age. Today, I am grateful and thankful to be healthy.” - Leigh Waddleton

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 23

entertainment

BRAIN TEASERS

Christmas Riddles

ANSWERS:

24 | FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE

1.Cupid 2.Mistletoe 3.Snowman 4.Dasher 5.Fir tree 6.South 7.Ho-ho-ho 8.When it gets mad at someone 9.It was a candy cane 10. Comet 11. Frostbite 12. No two are the same 13. They all fit only one foot 14. Garland 15. Eve 16. Carols 17. Present 18. No L 19. Reindeer 20. Star 21. Candlestick 22. Lights 23. Three Wise Men 24. Belles 25. Cookie 26. Bows 27. Cards 28. Tinsel

1.Which reindeer could be seen on Valentine’s Day? 2.What kind of toe does not belong in your shoe?

3.What kind of man never sits by the fireplace?

4.Which reindeer runs the fastest?

5.What kind of tree keeps you warm?

6.The only direction Santa can go from his home?

7.What does Santa do in his garden?

8.When do you see a snowball fight?

9.Why did Santa eat his walking stick?

10. Which reindeer can you see in outer space?

11. What do you get when you eat snow?

12. How are snowflakes like fingerprints?

13. In what way are all Christmas stockings the same?

14. Liza Minelli’s other last name 15. Adam’s partner 16. Burnett, O’Connor and Channing 17. Your answer at a roll call 18. Abcdefghijkmnopqrstuvwxyz 19. What it would do if it showered does, bucks and fawns?

20. What every aspiring actress wants to become?

21. In the nursery rhyme, what Jack jumped over 22. Flash, lamp, lantern, chandelier 23. A trio of intelligent males 24. Young southern women 25. Blondie and Dogwood’s daughter 26. Ms Derek and Mr Bridges 27. 52 in a deck 28. Hollywood’s nickname: _Town

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE You may not know it, but you have the power to help thousands of needy people, simply by leaving a charitable bequest to the Community Chest in your Will.

If you are amending your present will or perhaps preparing a new one,

SPECIAL INTERESTS Sports Injuries Neck & back pain Muscle & joint pain Arthritis Post operative rehabilitation Respiratory Neurological Women’s health Oncology physio

please consider leaving a bequest to Community Chest.

Your gift will go a long way to providing care and sustenance to many deprived and handicapped children, as well as assisting our elderly in KwaZulu-Natal.

Those who will benefit include: •Children’s Homes • The Elderly •Child Welfare •The Physically Challenged •Mental Health

•Youth Work Projects •Skills Development Programmes and Job Creation •Shelters •Early Childhood •The Chronically Development •The Terminally ill ill and HIV/AIDS •Child Assessment •Programmes for Sufferers Centres the Prevention of •Family Care Centres Substance Abuse

Contact Gordon McDonald on 031 303 3890 or email: gordon@communitychest.co.za and he will gladly explain the tax benefits and help you with your gift.

communitychest.co.za

Le Domaine Health: 8099 / 031 355 0030 Home Visits: 031 764 2750 info@rileyphysios.co.za / www.rileyphysios.co.za

Proudly providing physiotherapy at Le Domaine for 21 years

Escape to the Drakensberg with our

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CONTACT: 083 MAGAZINE 779 3103 FRENCH CONNECTION | 25

Recipe

Esme Smith’s Best Chocolate Cake Resident Esme Smith shares her recipe for a moist, delicious chocolate cake with great chocolate icing. It’s a fun treat you must try this Christmas!

INGREDIENTS Chocolate Cake • 2 cups wheat flour • 2 cups white sugar • ¾ cup cocoa powder (the better the quality, the better the result) • 2 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp instant coffee granules • 1 cup buttermilk • ½ cup sunflower oil • 2 large eggs • 2 tsp vanilla essence (vanilla extract) • 1 cup boiling water Chocolate Icing • 225g soft butter • 2 ½ cups icing sugar, sifted • ⅔ cup cocoa powder, sifted • 3 tbsp milk • 1 tsp vanilla essence (vanilla extract) • 1 tsp instant coffee granules, dissolved in 2 tsp boiling water.

26 | FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE

METHOD Chocolate Cake 1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC. 2. Cut out two circles of baking paper to line the bottom of two 24cm round, spring-form cake tins.

Spray with nonstick baking spray.

3. In a large bowl, or the bowl of your stand mixer, add the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, salt and instant coffee. Whisk all these together.

4. Add the buttermilk, oil, eggs and vanilla essence to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until well combined. Reduce the speed and carefully add the boiling water until the batter is well combined but thin.

5. Divide the batter between the prepared cake tins. Bake for 30

to 35 minutes until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cakes comes out clean.

6. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly for 10 minutes. Turn the cakes out onto a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before sandwiching them together with the chocolate icing.

Chocolate Icing 1. Beat the butter and icing sugar together until creamy, light, and smooth.

2. Add the cocoa powder, milk, vanilla and instant coffee and beat to a creamy, spreadable consistency.

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FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 27

EXPERIENCE

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