Le Domaine Estate Magazine December 2024

Summer 2024

Missed Our Last Edition?

French connection FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 1

Thinking of Selling in Le Domaine?

Laura Raubenheimer 073 215 3604 | laura.raubenheimer@pamgolding.co.za

2 | FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE

Contents

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Estate Manager Frances Mans welcomes us to this new season with grace and an update for the developments from the Body Corporate.

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Know Your Neighbours We meet Tony and Daphne, who are well-known for getting involved, dressing up at any opportunity, and being the first on the dance floor!

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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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DIY Holiday Gifts Spread love and cheer this holiday with our thoughtful and creative gift ideas, perfect for friends and family.

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.

Christmas Recipes In this edition, we have two delicious recipes to make your festive season a little brighter.

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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 Elvida Sydney | content@fabmags.co.za ACCOUNTS | 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 EstateCONNECTION MAGAZINE | 3 FRENCH

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Important

NUMBERS 100 Acutts Drive Hillcrest | 031 716 8000 www.ledom.co.za Reception Office Hours: Monday to Friday 08:15 to 16:00

Body Corporate Trustees

Chairman: Peter Dixon Vice Chairperson: Trish Brouwer, Jim Barrow, Margie Brown, Dave Gibbon, Lesley Heger, David Martin, Neville Rudman, Grant Weston

Key People & Contacts

Estate Manager Frances Mans estatemanager@bcld.co.za PA to Estate Manager Jo La Réservée | ext 8025 emassist@bcld.co.za Financial Manager Lesley Clark financemanager@bcld.co.za Finance Admin Susan Zaayman | ext 8021 admin@bcld.co.za Jo-Anne Hounsom | ext 8022 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 | ext 8017 For any after hours maintenance emergencies dial | ext 8998 After hours means: Monday to Friday from 16:00 to 08:00, as well as weekends and public holidays Lifestyle Co-ordinator Lydelle Goddard | ext 8018 lifestyle@bcld.co.za Residents Information Desk Zietske de Villiers | ext 8000 reception@bcld.co.za

GUARANTEED WORKMANSHIP TITAN PLUMBERS OFFERS COMPLETE PLUMBING SOLUTIONS FROM MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS TO RENOVATIONS AND NEW BUILDS

Services

Care Centre | ext 8450 wendy@ledomainecare.co.za Laundrette | ext 8699 Lodge | ext 8450 Digital - supersonic Marc Chapman | ext 8005 supersonic@ledom.co.za Security Services, Excellerate & Main gate ext 8998 or 071 475 3664 Clinton Botha - clint@ledom.co.za Health Hydro | ext 8056 thehealthhydro@gmail.com Hairdressing Salon | ext 8054 talitha200@gmail.com Mode de Vie - Bar and Restaurant | ext 8089 catering@ledom.co.za

D

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Medical Emergency Assistance

Please call Security on | ext 8998 Or 071 475 3664 who will contact MEDITECH Emergency Services

082 566 3348 TITANPLUMBERS@OUTLOOK.COM WWW.TITAN-PLUMBERS.COM FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 5

What’s on your mind?

I’m a South African with assets overseas. What factors do I need to consider for my estate planning, and do I need more than one Will?

Owning assets abroad adds complexity, but here’s what you need to keep in mind: Should I Have More Than One Will?

If your foreign assets are limited to a small bank account, one South African Will may be enough, as many banks recognise it for worldwide assets. But if you own substantial assets or own foreign property, separate Wills can help by aligning each with local laws, which may speed things up for beneficiaries.

Understanding Probate Abroad Foreign assets often require a local probate process (similar to South Africa’s executorship). If this is needed, the South African estate can’t be finalised until it’s completed abroad, potentially causing delays.

Having a foreign executor familiar with local probate rules can make the process smoother, especially if you have multiple or valuable assets overseas.

Additional Costs and Fees You need to make provisions for additional costs as other countries don’t always cap executor fees like South Africa does (3.5% plus VAT). In some places, probate fees are much higher.

Forced Heirship, Marital Property Rules and trusts Some countries, like Italy, Portugal, and France, have “forced heirship” laws that dictate how assets are distributed, regardless of what your Will says. Additionally, marital property regimes may impact distribution, and testamentary trusts are not always recognised.

Inheritance Taxes and Duties Your foreign assets might be subject to foreign inheritance taxes on top of South African estate duties. These taxes can add up and reduce the total inheritance for beneficiaries.

Preventing Conflicts Between Wills If you decide on multiple Wills, make sure each one applies only to assets in that specific country to avoid accidental revocation. This is why an experienced estate planner is invaluable—they ensure your intentions are honored without any legal conflicts across borders.

Working with a specialist familiar with international laws can help lower these taxes as well as foreign probate fees through strategic planning. If you would like a ‘Health Check’ carried out on your Will at no cost, contact us.

Let’s Talk 083 384 4873 nikki@mellafiduciary.co.za 6 | FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE

www.mellafiduciary.co.za

editor’s Note

Editor From The

What makes a great Christmas party?

A great party can be the highlight of the festive season, bringing friends and family together.

What are some key elements that make a great party? The Guests, Food and Drinks, The Décor, Fun Activities, The Music, and Personal Touches. As with the “party” of life, we have all the ingredients to make it a success.

The Guests: although we can’t always choose our guests, remember to honour their presence. They all contribute to shaping who we are and how we experience the world. Some offer unconditional love and support, to those who share in our joys and sorrows. All our relationships and encounters, whether deep and enduring or fleeting and momentary, enrich our lives and teach us something. Through these interactions, we learn, grow, and find meaning in our lives. Food and Drinks: mix it up, you can’t live on the same thing every day. They say spice is the variety of life. Life is about experience, some sweet, some bland and tasteless, some bitter and hard to swallow. Look forward to the sweet moments and make the best of the rest. The Décor: we are blessed with the most awe-inspiring décor around us—spectacular sunsets, twinkling stars on a velvet background, blossoming flowers in a burst of colours, the iridescence of birds and butterflies, rainbows and waterfalls, mountains and rivers—a true feast for our eyes.

Fun Activities: this is where we tailormake our “party”. Do we prefer the outdoors, spending time around a dinner table with friends, travelling the world, reading books, meeting with social clubs or a day at the beach? Each day is an opportunity to fill our “party” with activities that fulfil us and make us happy. The Music: like a melody, life is a continuous flow of moments, each note representing an experience, a memory or feeling. Just as a melody can be joyful or melancholic, our lives are filled with emotions and experiences that make up our unique song. Life has its crescendos—the highs of excitement, achievement, and celebration along with decrescendos—the quieter, more introspective times when we reflect, rest, and prepare for the next verse.

Personal Touches: there is no doubt that each of us is known by a special trait, a unique idiosyncrasy, a personal saying, a little quirk, things our loved ones nickname us after or tell their friends about. Let your personal touch shine brightly for all to see. This is your party!

Lifestyle Co-ordinator lifestyle@bcld.co.za

A good party is an event we have all planned or attended excitedly.

Remember to look at your life as the greatest party you could ever host, a celebration that will be remembered in the years to come.

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 7

Your community store assisting you with all your Courier requirements

HILLCREST L8I|NFRENCH KHCONNECTION ILLS MAGAZINE

Management

Estate From The

Manager Hello Le Domaine Family, As we approach the end of another bustling year, we want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared. This year has been filled with numerous events, achievements, and moments of community spirit that have brought us closer together. We have also completed several key projects that have enhanced our community.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Trustees, The Body Corporate Team, and our dedicated service providers for their invaluable contributions to this year’s success.

I would also like to extend a special thanks to our village Councillors, our “angels”. They volunteer their time to keep the friendly spirit of the Estate alive in their respective villages (see photo of Councillors at a recent year-end get-together).

We are excited to announce the launch of our sustainable project, which includes the installation of smart meters and solar panels.

During this period, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate the initial stages.

As with any new initiative, we anticipate some teething problems, but with your cooperation and support, we are confident we will meet our target completion date of the end of February 2025. The Water Harvesting Steering Committee is actively investigating potable and rainwater harvesting solutions for the Estate. This initiative not only helps conserve our precious

Back row, left to right: Kareen Winstanley, Ann Braine, Margie Brown, Lesley Heger, Sue Yates; Maureen Halliday, Brenda Parker, Debbie Solomon.

Front row, left to right: Heather Niven, Eileen Frank, Pat Butler, Joyce Parsons, Jane Gomersall.

water resources but also reduces our reliance on municipal water supplies, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient community.

By the time you receive this edition of the French Connection, you will have received the proposed 2025 levy increase notice. We are pleased to inform you that the levy increase for 2025 has been carefully considered, with the ageing infrastructure of our large Estate at the forefront of our minds. We are very fortunate that our Levy Stabilisation Fund (LSF) assists in keeping the levy increases to a minimum. The budgeted expenditure will be presented for approval by the Body Corporate at the Annual General Meeting held in April 2025.

community where everyone feels valued and connected. Thank you for your continued support and participation. On behalf of the Body Corporate team, Trustees and our service providers, we would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a joyful holiday season, a blessed Christmas, and a prosperous new year!

Remember, the Body Corporate team is always here to serve you with a smile. If you need anything at all, just reach out! Our contact details are conveniently listed on page 5 of the magazine.

With warmest regards, Frances Mans

We remain committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and vibrant

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 9

Residents

Having a positive outlook and enjoying life to the fullest has kept us strong as individuals.

possessions are each other and enjoying life to the fullest.

Know Your

Neighbours Tony & Daphne

The answer is Tony and Daphne Ansell. If you are looking for them, the first place you should look is Club de Vie on a social evening.

Always the first to book for our events and always the first with a spirit of socialising and hospitality.

How long have you been together?

Daphne and I have been together for 19 years and have known each other since our long-distance running days in 1988. Daphne participated in 10 comrade marathons and I ran in eight. In 1989 and 1992, Daphne was part of the Savages team that won the Gungadin Comrades floating trophy.

Tony and Daphne are well-known for getting involved, dressing up at any opportunity, and being the first on the dance floor. They are the epitome of warmth and happiness.

What is your secret to always having such warm smiles?

Having a positive outlook and enjoying life to the fullest has kept us strong as individuals.

Undoubtedly, our most prized

What do hospitality, being a socialite, and great big smiles have in common?

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Greatest decision?

To start my own business in 1977 and own three greeting card stores (Cards Galore) in Durban’s CBD and, at the same time, become a major supplier to the Cardies Franchise.

Favourite kind of holiday?

Visiting Game Reserves, especially the Kruger National Park. During two of our visits to the KNP, we ran two half marathons in the park, starting at Skukuza with game rangers protecting us along the route. That was a scary experience.

What is one piece of advice you would offer other families today?

Always work together as a unit and remain calm at all times.

One last note from the Ansells “We are so privileged to have made amazing friends and to wake up every day on this safe and wellmanaged estate with beautiful gardens, waterways, bird life and a lifestyle which we have enjoyed for 12 years and hopefully many more to come.”

Le LeDomaine Domaine

Snippets

A Vibe with Trio Vibe Guests were captivated as Anthony Downing (piano), Ayanda Makulwane (cello), and Cara Schafer (violin) brought to life a selection of iconic film and television scores masterfully arranged for this unique trio. The evening featured the grandeur of Hans Zimmer’s epic soundtracks, the elegance of the “Downton Abbey Suite”, the timeless melodies of Disney’s most beloved story, “Beauty and the Beast”, the passionate flair of “Por Una Cabeza”, and much more.

Croquet on Bowling Green!

The Bowling Green closes each year for refurbishment which allows our enthusiastic croquet players the opportunity to set up three ‘lawns’ for a marathon croquet match. This year many of the spectators joined to try their hand at it. It was a delight to play on such a smooth surface which enhanced the competence of the ‘newbies’ and much fun was had by all. There are sure to be new croquet fans joining the club soon!

Remembrance Day 11:11:11 A special morning was shared to commemorate the fallen soldiers and all who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Speakers shared personal experiences, detailed accounts, poems, and interesting facts.

Many residents were deeply moved, discovering fellow residents affected by those tragic events. Our residents hold a rich tapestry of history and depth.

Have you asked a resident about their experiences lately?

Personally serenaded by Andrew Mills The residents were treated to a exceptional experience with Andrew Mills in November.

“Andrew Mills was fantastic, and sang for so long!

He also has such an endearing manner about him.

We all just loved him at our table.” Andrew touched so many hearts and lifted so many spirits as he sang the night away and paid individual attention to each and every table. Thank you, Andrew, for a wonderful evening.

RESIDENTS ENJOYING SOME FUN QUALITY TIME AND SOCIALISING AND IN THE CLUB DE VIE LOUNGE

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 11

Snippets

Continued

The Reflex Band members Pierre and Zane entertained our crowds in November with music that catered to all tastes.

Le Domaine Puzzle Corner In a quiet corner, the table set, a thousand pieces, a challenge met. Colours and shapes, a scattered array, a picture hidden, waiting to display. Piece by piece, the journey starts, a test of patience, a work of art. Edges first, the frame takes form, a border built, a puzzle norm. We invite you to come and spend a few minutes at our puzzle corner. Club de Vie, lower level.

Le Dom Bowls Fun Day It is traditional to hold a ‘Fun Day’ to celebrate the end of the Bowling Season. This is when bowlers play out of position; the Leads play Skips and vice versa in a ‘Turnabout Competition’.

This generates much laughter as Leads forget whose bowl is whose and Skips throw the Jack into the next rink! This is followed by the ‘Last Man Standing’ competition, won by Margie Brown this year, and culminates in a game called ‘Spider’ when all Bowlers encircle the green and roll one bowl simultaneously to touch the Jack in the centre.

Spectators loved to watch approximately 70 bowls clashing together, ending with Mike Farquharson closest to the Jack. “The weather was in our favour and we had a thoroughly enjoyable day with lots of sponsored prizes and lucky draws, followed by delicious eats and plenty of drinks!” – Les Heger

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These are the moments we live for Quality time with loved ones in one of the many recreational areas at Le Domaine.

La Mondaine The Socialite Doggy Day Le Domaine doggy day was lovingly and proudly sponsored by Smiths Property Group and Ainsworth Attorneys Inc. Residents and their fur babies had the best time at Le Domaine’s annual Doggie Day. Our doggies had a blast, showing off their talents and Moms and Dads proudly boasted their skills.

Mella Fiduciary Breakfast Morning Mella Fiduciary sponsored a wonderful morning with guest speaker Jeremy Gardiner who presented the topic of how global developments intersect with South African Politics and how it affects our future.

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 13

DIY HOLIDAY GIFTS From spa baskets to savoury snacks, these festive treats are sure to make anyone's day special!

SPA RETREAT BASKET Includes fluffy towels, bath teas, natural soaps, and greenery for a relaxing experience.

GOURMET KITCHEN DUO This set includes premium olive oil and a savoury spice blend, perfect for culinary enthusiasts.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE: Use a woven basket and fill it with spa essentials and plush towels.

Add greenery and wooden accents for a soothing, natural presentation.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE: Use a wooden cutting board as a base, layer with a textured kitchen towel for added style.

Secure items with rustic twine, adding a sprig of greenery for a natural accent.

HOME KITCHEN ESSENTIALS BUNDLE This basket includes wooden utensils, a cutting board, a small potted plant, and scented candles for a cosy kitchen setup.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE: Use a woven basket with handles, filling the base with crinkle paper for support.

Arrange kitchen tools and décor items neatly, placing the potted plant in the centre for a fresh touch.

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Gifting

COSY HOME ESSENTIALS BOX Includes a warm candle, a fuzzy pair of socks, macarons, and a sweet mug.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE: Line a sturdy box with tissue paper and arrange items neatly.

Add evergreen sprigs for a fresh, natural touch to complement the cosy theme.

PINK PAMPER MUG A thoughtful collection with lip balm, lotion, a cosy pair of socks, and a notebook, all in a stylish mug.

WINE AND CHEESE DELIGHT A curated selection of fine wine, artisan cheese, breadsticks, and a sweet treat for a gourmet experience.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE: Choose a large, decorative mug and fill with small self-care items.

Co-ordinate colours for a cohesive look, adding a ribbon for style.

MODERN ESSENTIALS BASKET Contains a stylish tumbler, luxury skincare, earbuds, and cosy accessories for a perfect blend of comfort and utility.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE: Use a woven basket lined with a soft throw for texture.

Arrange items thoughtfully for a balanced look.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE: Line a wooden tray with burlap for a rustic feel.

Arrange wine and cheese alongside breadsticks and add sprigs of herbs for a fresh touch.

FESTIVE SPIRITS AND SNACKS BOX Features a bottle of Bacardi and ornament-shaped containers filled with assorted nuts for a playful, festive touch.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE: Use a bright, sturdy box with crinkle paper for a festive base.

Arrange the bottle and filled ornaments neatly, adding a ribbon for a festive flair.

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 15

We have achieved multiple sales above asking price in Le Domaine this year!

MARKET LEADERS WORD SEARCH 1. Le Domaine 2. Success 3. Brittany 4. Dauphine 5. Marseilles 6. Bordeaux 7. Sell 8. Champagne 9. Nice 10. Burgundy 11. Versailles 12. Excellence 13. Normandie 14. Seeff 15. Experience 16. Reims 17. Alsace 18. Monaco 19. Free Valuation

HAYDEN DOWDALL

LIST WITH US

COULD BE YOURS

!

CHARLOTTE SCHOLTZ

083 452 6722

082 817 4453

hayden.dowdall@seeff.com

charlotte scholtz@seeff.com

VARINA ROSS

LYNETTE DORKIN

072 119 3089

082 293 8034

varina.ross@seeff.com

lynette.dorkin@seeff.com

16 | FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE

Contact one of our market leaders for a free, up to date, and accurate valuation.

nature

Birds Get to Know Your

A PURPLE HERON WITH HIS IMPRESSIVE CATCH, A RATHER LARGE TILAPIA

PHOTO FRANK KIHN

A large Purple Heron with a rusty head and streaky neck; juvenile is extensively rusty brown on upperparts. It often adopts a posture with its neck extending obliquely, and even nestlings tend to use this stance. It is generally a less noisy bird, though similar guttural sounds are heard emanating from the heronry. Purple Herons are colonial breeders and build a bulky nest out of dead reeds or sticks close to the water’s edge among reeds or in dense vegetation.

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 17

Winston the Titan Terrier: The Cosmic Bone a heart-warming story by resident Joan van Dongen’s son, Colin and creative granddaughter, Mia

Winston the Titan Terrier: The Cosmic Bone is an award winning children's book that was directed, written, and storyboarded by my daughter, Mia van Dongen (age five!) and myself, Colin, her dad. This book follows Winston, a resourceful Boston Terrier with a heart of gold and a backpack filled with incredible gadgets on a thrilling quest. Packed with action, humour, and a message of perseverance, we wanted to create a story that would resonate with children facing challenges and celebrate the power of imagination.

Winston's cosmic dogbone can transform into anything he imagines, making it a coveted prize for the cunning ninja cat, Smokestrike, and his mischievous Claw Crew. He embarks on a perilous journey, navigating daring rescues, ingenious inventions, and unexpected alliances which leads him to an ancient underground world filled with mysteries and challenges.

Winston must race against time using his transformative backpack and cunning wit to outsmart Smokestrike and prevent a catastrophe that threatens their planet. This is just the beginning of his adventures!

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Residents

Here's what makes Winston the Titan Terrier: The Cosmic Bone unique: • Interactive Storytelling: Readers can interact and attempt to unlock brain teasers along the way to aid Winston on his quest.

• Positive Message: The book emphasises themes of overcoming adversity, friendship, and the importance of friendship and helping others.

SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW

To view digital pdf

This tale is for young readers (ages 5-12) seeking action and thrill, and adults looking for a heart-warming story filled with camaraderie.

This book promises a visual feast, an enthralling adventure, interactive puzzles and riddles that seamlessly engage young

minds. Winston the Titan Terrier: The Cosmic Bone is a 32-page vibrant illustrated book where every page brings vibrant illustrations, unexpected surprises, and a world brimming with wonder! Perfect for all ages, it's an intergalactic journey filled with heroic quests!

Books are available for collection within Le Domaine. Price R150. To order directly, contact Joan van Dongen on Ext 8400.

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 19

Why buy when you can hire?

24/7 delivery to your front door!

Our prOducts include: Electric & Manual Wheelchairs, Knee Scooters, Mobility Scooters, Electric Hospital Beds, Commodes Crutches, Walking Sticks, Zimmer Frames, Rollaters, Bathroom Hoists, Medical Hoists, Oxygen Concentrators Everything you need and MOre!

contact Wayne Abbott 067 328 5525 info@rent2recover.co.za

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We specialise in long and short term hire of all types of mobility equipment, accessories and oxygen.

Community

Team Meet The

Wiseman has faithfully served as a driver, painter, and general worker, always ready to lend a helping hand.

W I S E M A N M A P H U MU LO

M

eet Wiseman Maphumulo, a devoted member of the Le Domaine team since 2010. For 14 years, Wiseman has faithfully served as a driver, painter, and general worker, always ready to lend a helping hand.

This 39-year-old family man is married with three beautiful children; two girls and a boy.

He is known for his bright smile and gentle nature. As assistant to the lifestyle co-ordinator, Wiseman is a familiar face around the club.

He expertly ferries residents to shopping malls and outings, assists with deliveries and collections, and works tirelessly to maintain the pristine condition of Le Domaine’s pools, braai areas, and lifestyle spaces. His dedication and warm

spirit make him an invaluable asset to our community.

Get to know him better: R & R: Serving God Favourite Food: Beans & Phutu Favourite Drink: Fruit Juice Favourite Day of the Week: Saturday Favourite Scripture: 1 Peter 5:7 “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you”

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 21

Preparing for Incapacity – Protecting Your Spouse or Loved One in the Event of Dementia WITH MELLA FIDUCIARY

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Business on the estate

I

n practice, a common question that we are asked is how best to protect oneself or loved ones in the event of incapacity, such as dementia. Planning ahead for possible future incapacity can ensure both security and peace of mind.

Fortunately, there are effective options in South Africa to help manage these concerns while safeguarding assets and care arrangements.

Why a Power of Attorney Falls Short Many people think a Power of Attorney (POA) will allow them to act on behalf of a loved one if there loved one can no longer manage their affairs.

However, under South African law, a POA is only valid while the person granting it has mental capacity.

This means that if a spouse or partner were to develop dementia, a POA becomes invalid. Continuing to act on an invalid POA can expose the person relying on it to legal disputes and claims, especially in situations where family tensions arise.

High Costs of Curatorship When someone becomes incapacitated and has an estate exceeding R200 000, the only formal option to manage their financial affairs is to apply for a Curatorship through the High Court.

This involves a lengthy and costly process, with medical assessments and a High Court

application, resulting in the appointment of a Curator Bonis to manage the individual’s estate. This option can be cumbersome and expensive for most families, especially when simpler options may be available.

A Practical Solution for Couples: A Testamentary Trust in Your Will For married couples, a simple and practical option is to establish a testamentary trust in the will. This type of trust activates upon the death of the first spouse and allows assets to be managed for the surviving spouse’s benefit.

The surviving spouse can be a trustee, allowing them to be involved in the management of the estate until they become incapacitated, at which time, successor trustees—appointed by the deceased spouse in the will—can step in to manage the trust, ensuring the spouse’s needs are met according to the deceased’s wishes.

If structured correctly, the bequest will retain its Estate Duty spousal deduction and allow trustees to act in the best interests of the surviving spouse.

For Single individuals or as an Alternative Solution for Couples: The Special Trust Option This can provide benefits and protection similar to the above solution. During one's lifetime, transferring assets to a trust

triggers either donations tax or other tax implications.

However, on early onset dementia, an individual has the unique opportunity, whilst still lucid, to transfer their assets to this type of trust with very few negative tax consequences.

A Special Trust allows you to appoint people that you trust to manage your assets in your best interest without the limitations of a POA or having an application of curatorship brought through the high court (perhaps by individuals who you wouldn’t want involved in your financial affairs). Using a special trust as an option, trustees of your choice can be appointed to act in your best interests.

Looking to the Future: Enduring Powers of Attorney Another potential tool for managing incapacity is an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA). Although not yet legally recognised in South Africa, an EPOA would permit someone to act on another's behalf even if the grantor loses capacity.

If this legislation is eventually enacted, signing an EPOA now could potentially enable individuals to rely on it in the future if the law changes.

Being proactive now can prevent many financial hardships and complications later.

If you would like to explore any of these options, please contact us.

Telephone: 031 020 0619 Email: admin@mellafiduciary.co.za

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 23

Seasons

Greetings As we wrap up another wonderful year, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks for your loyalty, trust, and continued support.

Your presence lights up The Health Hydro and makes it a special place!

This season, we wish you beauty, joy and time to unwind with your friends, family, and friends who become family!

May the New Year bring you health and happiness, much more sparkle and a little less stress. We wish you all the very, very best.

With love, Lyn, Caleigh, Tracey, Angelique, and Esmerelda.

Mode de Vie

The Salon

It’s been an absolute pleasure to serve you and share in so many special moments, from romantic dinners to family gatherings and celebrations. May this special time of year fill your heart with warmth and cheer. As we look forward to the New Year, we’re excited to continue providing you with exceptional experiences.

Thank you for entrusting us with your hair care this year and for sharing so many precious moments with us! We hope this Christmas season brings you joy, love and a touch of sparkle! Looking forward to many more transformations and unforgettable memories in the New year!

Warmest wishes, Mode de Vie

With Love and Light, Talitha, Martie and Victoria

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you can transform lives YOU HAVE THE POWER TO TRANSFORM COUNTLESS LIVES WITH A SINGLE ACT OF KINDNESS AND LEAVE A LASTING LEGACY. By including a charitable bequest to the Community Chest in your Will, you become a beacon of hope for those in need. Your legacy will provide essential care and support to vulnerable children and elderly individuals across KwaZulu-Natal. Together, we can create a brighter future, filled with compassion and opportunity for all.

061 747 1093 natasha@fabmags.co.za

Contact Rashilla Francis on 031 303 3890 or email: rashilla@communitychest.co.za communitychest.co.za

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 25

Did you know that Rise Bakery makes the most delicous 1kg Artisanal Fruitcake or 1kg Gluten Free/Vegan Fruitcake?

Available to order call Kevin: 083 259 2222

3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and beat on a low speed until well-combined. Cut the dough in half and roll each half into a ball and then flatten into a disc. Wrap each disc in cling film and chill in the fridge for three hours.

Rise Bakery’s

Gingerbread man ✓ Makes +/- 24 x 10cm portions Ingredients: • 440g flour • 5ml baking soda • 2.5ml salt • 15ml ground ginger • 15ml ground cinnamon • 2.5ml allspice • 1ml ground clove • 145g butter (room temperature) • 150g brown sugar • 150g golden syrup • 1 egg • 5ml vanilla essence

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Method: 1. Sieve together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves in a large bowl and set aside.

2. Cream the butter and brown sugar together with a handheld mixer or stand mixer. Add the syrup and mix together until well combined.

Scrape down the sides of the bowl, add the egg and vanilla and mix gently. Scrape down the sides once again.

4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface about 0.5cm thick and use a Gingerbread Man Cutter to cut out biscuits. Arrange them on lined baking trays, spaced about 2cm apart to allow for slight spreading. At this point, if you are not going to decorate the Gingerbread Men with sweets and you prefer them plain, you can find appropriate tools in your kitchen to press a face and buttons into the cut-out dough. Be sure to press these in fairly deeply, but not all the way through. Place your baking trays into the fridge or freezer to chill until firm to the touch.

5. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the Gingerbread Men until they are just slightly golden around the edges. You may need to rotate or swap your trays halfway through baking for even browning.

Once ready, take the trays out and cool them well on a safe surface.

When they are at room temperature, decorate as desired.

Using a piping bag with a 1mm nozzle tip, you can add details with royal icing or a glaze made with icing sugar and water or melted chocolate, which is great for sticking on Jelly Tots or Smarties with the grandchildren.

recipe

Trifle A delicious traditional treat!

WORDS FATIMA SYDOW

Trifle is traditionally served on very special occasions, such as Eid (Labarang) and at weddings.

Over the years, I’ve played around with the recipe and added a few twists and tweaks.

Ingredients: • 2 packets (80g each) greengage jelly • 2 packets (80g each) strawberry jelly • 1 vanilla sponge cake or Swiss roll • 1 large tin (825g) fruit cocktail • 1 litre (4 cups) prepared custard For decoration • 250 ml (1 cup) whipped cream • grated chocolate • berries • walnuts Method: 1. Prepare both jellies separately as per the packet instructions.

2. When the jellies have set, place all your ingredients neatly next to each other in smaller bowls, because trifle is an assembly of ingredients—no cooking or baking required.

3. Use a very deep bowl for a twolayer trifle or a large shallow bowl for a one-layer trifle. You can also use individual glasses.

4. Cut the sponge cake or Swiss roll into slices, then place half at the bottom of the bowl.

5. Scatter half the fruit cocktail over the sponge layer, then drizzle with half of the syrup.

Now dollop half of the green and red jelly over the canned fruit, evenly. Pour and spread half of the custard over the jelly.

6. Repeat all steps until all the ingredients have been used.

Pipe some cream over the top and decorate with berries, grated chocolate, and walnuts. Place in the fridge overnight, covered,

ready for the festive feast the next day.

Tips/Substitutions: • Use lemon and poppy seed loaf cake or sliced muffins instead of vanilla sponge cake or Swiss roll.

• You can use any flavoured jelly of your choice. I prefer the berry flavours, such as blackcurrant.

• For a chocolate trifle, use a chocolate sponge cake, chocolate mousse, and decorate with grated dark chocolate.

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 27

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How many games does each child receive and how many do the parents keep?

2. Two mums and two daughters went out for Christmas dinner each ate one portion, yet only three portions were eaten in total. How is this possible?”

3. Which of these letters is the odd one out? “A F H K L N Y Z”

1.

Answer Youngest Child: two games.

Middle Child: four games.

Oldest Child: eight games.

Parents: two games.

2.

It was a grandmother, who is obviously also a mother, mother and daughter who went out for Christmas dinner together!

3.

The correct answer is “L.” All of the other letters are made up of three straight lines, while L is made up of 2.

FRENCH CONNECTION MAGAZINE | 29

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