Le Domaine Estate Magazine September 2025 by FabMags

Missed Our Last Edition?

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 Clarke financemanager@bcld.co.za

Finance Admin | Insurance Claims

Jo-Anne Hounsom | ext 8022 accounts@bcld.co.za

Zietske de Villiers | ext 8021 admin@bcld.co.za

Maintenance | Gardens 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

Caron Hepburn | ext 8000 reception@bcld.co.za

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

Medical Emergency Assistance

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

Join our fun, fully guided getaways designed with seniors in mind. Travel in comfort, make new friends, and explore beautiful destinations like:

• Hermanus & the Western Cape

• Clarens & Cherry Picking

• Tembe Elephant Park

• Springbok Lodge & Cathedral Peak

• Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

• Umngazi Hotel & Spa

• Kgalagadi Tour

Editor From The

Nathaniel Hawthorne once said, “Time flies over us, but leaves its shadow behind.”

As we mark another chapter in our Le Domaine journey (more than 21 chapters and counting), we invite you to reflect on the power of growth through change. Time, though often seen as a force that wears down and weathers, can also be a catalyst for flourishing—if we allow it.

If we look at our beautiful estate and the “shadow of the past behind it”, we will see many dark and dreary moments, such as COVID-19, the riots in July 2021, the floods of 2022, the devastating windstorm in June 2025, yet Le Domaine stands upright, proud, strong and beautiful, it has neither shrunk back nor surrendered to stagnation. Instead, it has blossomed and flourished, its beauty enriched by the very passage of time.

So too must we. Let us not become stagnant simply because time has passed. Let us not confuse longevity with complacency. Growth is not reserved for the young or the new—it is the reward of those who remain open, curious, and willing to evolve.

In this issue, you’ll find stories of resilience and reinvention. May they remind you that standing the test of time is not about enduring unchanged, but about flourishing through change.

from the desk of the Estate Manager

Hello Le Domaine family,

As the flowers begin to bloom and the birds rehearse their springtime symphonies, Le Domaine is stepping into the season with a celebratory skip in its step and for good reason. This spring marks 21 years since our beloved estate first opened its gates, and what a journey it’s been!

From humble beginnings to a thriving, vibrant community, Le Domaine has blossomed into a place where nature, neighbours, and nurturing leadership come together in perfect harmony. And just like any good 21st birthday bash, we’re not just celebrating the past, we’re raising a toast to the future.

Let’s be honest: spring cleaning is a lot easier when your house is in order.

Thanks to prudent planning, transparent governance, and a dash of good old-fashioned teamwork, Le Domaine’s financial health is looking as fresh as a daisy. Your Trustees and management team have kept a steady hand on the wheel, ensuring that our resources are well-managed and our future is secure.

Spring may be the season of growth, but here at Le Domaine, the admin, maintenance, gardens, and security teams have been hard at work all year long. Behind the scenes, projects are rolling out right on schedule, keeping our estate running smoothly and safely.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the dedicated crew who keep the gears turning behind the scenes. This spring, we’re delighted to introduce the BCLD admin and management team, a group of passionate professionals who bring warmth, wisdom, and a whole lot of heart to everything they do. Whether it’s coordinating community events, managing communications, keeping a close eye on the finances, or on the estate’s infrastructure, the BCLD team is the glue that holds our estate together. They’re not just administrators; they’re ambassadors of the Le Domaine

spirit. So next time you pass them, give them a wave or a warm “thank you.” They deserve it. (Please refer to pages 24 and 25 to get to know them better.)

And what would Le Domaine be without its residents? You are the soul of this estate, the friendly faces, the helping hands, the laughter at community events, and the quiet kindness that makes this place feel like home. Your pride in our shared space, your care for one another, and your contributions to our community are what truly make Le Domaine special; thank you for being the heart of our story.

As we celebrate 21 years of growth, connection, and community, we also look forward to the next chapter. With spring in the air and a renewed sense of purpose, Le Domaine is poised to continue flourishing, guided by strong leadership, supported by sound finances, and uplifted by the people who make this estate feel like home.

Here’s to spring. Here’s to 21 years. And here’s to the beautiful journey ahead.

Happy 21st Birthday, Le Domaine!

What’s on your mind?

I’m a Trustee on a family Trust - I thought it was low risk, now I’m hearing about ﬁnes and prisons. Should I worry?

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?

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?

TOwning assets abroad adds complexity, but here’s what you need to keep in mind:

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.

he “quiet” days of Trust administration are gone. South Africa’s grey listing triggered a storm of regulatory enforcement, and the Trust landscape has turned into a compliance mineﬁeld. The belief that “no one is checking” is now dangerously outdated. Trustees can expose themselves to serious legal and personal risk.

WHO DO THE NEW DUTIES APPLY TO?

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.

New duties apply to all Trustees, not just professionals. For the first time, the Trust Property Control Act now introduces significant penalties for non-compliance, including fines of up to R10 million and/or imprisonment for up to five years, even for what may appear to be minor oversights.

GIVE AN EXAMPLE OF OFFENCES THAT TRIGGER SEVERE PENALTIES?

One example: Trustees must inform

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

any ‘accountable institution’ (such as car dealerships, banks, attorneys, and estate agents, etc.) that they are acting as Trustees and that the transaction involves Trust property. You must also keep records of each institution you deal with. The Financial Intelligence Centre has been allocated major funding to pursue Trusts. This means that you need to become somewhat of an expert on who qualiﬁes as an accountable institution.

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

Another example is that you need to establish, records, and keep updated the beneﬁcial ownership information of the Trust, lodge it with the Master’s Oﬃce, and now also submit it with every Trust tax return.

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.

HAS ANYTHING CHANGED WITH SARS?

A focus area of SARS is noncompliance with Trusts. The increased disclosure obligations, audit intensity, and growing

Inheritance Taxes and Duties

integration with the Master’s Oﬃce using real-time AI cross-checking means this is no longer just paperwork.

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.

SARS requires that Trusts must be registered as taxpayers, and all historical returns must be submitted to avoid punitive, retrospective administrative penalties.

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

All Trust tax returns must include resolutions and meeting minutes. Backdating or scrambling paperwork after the fact will now be ﬂagged automatically through system checks and AI.

WHAT SHOULD I DO?

If one has a professional Trustee and a professional Trust administrator who ensures that everything is compliant, one need not worry. Being a Trustee now means understanding the rules—or hiring someone who does—because ignorance is not a defence.

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

Le Domaine Snippets Snippets & Socials

Eva Cassidy Show with Kerry Hiles

The Story of Eva Cassidy is beautiful and tragic; the stuff legends are made of. With Fields Of Gold, Over The Rainbow, and Fever, as well as familiar jazz, gospel and blues numbers, this one-hour tribute show had us laughing, crying, and celebrating a singer who was discovered too late. Guitarist Rob Thompson and drummer Kristo Zondagh completed the live trio alongside Kerry Hiles on bass and vocals to bring the music and magic of Eva Cassidy to life.

Nostalgia

John Fryer personified the term ‘Nostalgia’ for us in July with over 100 favourite songs from way back then. He says, “I learned the basics of the piano, guitar, clarinet, and trumpet while at school and then at Rhodes University, was the lead guitarist and trumpeter with the band—The Sheridons, which was unbeaten in Big Band contests. This was the same era as The Bats, The Staccatos, and Four Jacks and a Jill. All through my business career, I continued to provide entertainment for family, friends, international tour groups, cabarets, including busking in the London Underground, full Elvis shows in Las Vegas, and trumpet cabarets in Miami. Acquiring a beautiful Bernhard Steiner baby grand, I focused on piano in my seventies, and a formula was created for entertaining audiences all over SA— with guitar, voice, and piano, creating a highly participative two-hour show within the genres of pop, rock, musicals, movies, jazz, classical, all with interesting info, humour, and even a blindfold piano demonstration. A programme of nostalgia, foot tapping, and joining in!”

Snippets & Socials

KZN Youth Choir

The KZN Youth Choir visited our estate, arriving on a 40-seater bus after a tour of the south coast. Under the direction of Bernard Kruger, they delivered a powerful and moving performance in our newly refreshed Amphitheatre. Residents enjoyed the uplifting music on a glorious Saturday afternoon, with many spirits lifted and hearts filled. “What a wonderful afternoon entertainment at the refurbished Amphitheatre.” - Grant Weston.

KZN Youth Orchestra

The group of incredible young classical musicians, aged between 10 and 20, from across KwaZulu-Natal, graced us with their presence and talent, conducted by Lykele Temmingh, with narration by Cathy Peacock. The hour-long concert encompassed a variety of genres, including music from the Baroque and Romantic periods, movies and musicals, and rock and pop. Sheherezade, The Unﬁnished Symphony, All That Jazz, Mission Impossible, and some South African music as well. What a beautiful Friday!

Vintage Car Display

On a chilly Saturday morning, the heat turned up when three vintage cars rolled into the Porteco. Delighted residents swarmed around to inspect, exchange stories, or pose for photos. John Booth and his colleagues proudly showed off their 1930 collection, featuring a Mercedes, Citroën, and Armstrong Siddeley.

Amphitheatre Refurb

Our beautiful focal point, the Amphitheatre, needed a little bit of TLC last quarter and emerged at the end of winter proudly and gracefully, ready to welcome our residents for many outdoor arenastyle events in the future. “It was definitely an estate asset worth preserving, and that afternoon’s performance in the winter sun gave credence to this. It was certainly enjoyed by all. Thank you for all the hard work in ensuring that everything was ready on time. Also, a big thank you to Frances and the maintenance team for all their hard work and input.” - Lorraine Weston.

Flash Mob

Some of our enthusiastic cast members from Our Colourful History delighted the residents with a flash mob appearance in the club foyer, creating excitement and a sneak peek of the four-day show at the end of August.

Those Were The Days - Springbok Radio

Kath McClelland, Paul Spence, and the rest of this 5-star, seven-piece cast brought the clubhouse to its feet with their Those were the days, Springbok Radio Days! Residents were taken on an epic trip down memory lane … reminiscing about going on family holidays and listening to Springbok Radio. This show was so popular that we had to bring the cast back for a second night.

“It was a laugh every minute, super songs which everyone related to, and fabulous steps back to the great days of radio. The characters portrayed had everyone in stitches. One of the best shows yet. As they say, laughter is the best medicine, so the full house in attendance must all be feeling 100 per cent. Just a fantastic evening—thanks a million.” - Val Beaton.

We’ve Got Game!

The Port Natal Ladies Bowls League 2025 was held at many bowling clubs throughout the district during July and August. Playing against some strong competition, our ladies were unbeaten, winning their division and being promoted to the next. The ladies team consisted of two sub teams of four players. The players that represented Le Domaine were: Les Diffenthal, Jenny Cooper, Lyn Potter, Heather Niven, Eileen Hart, Maree Tarpey, Linda Lilley, and Trish Cross.

Back to the

Beginning

Keith Wakefield Recalls the Early Days of Le Domaine

When you ask Keith Wakefield to recall the early days of Le Domaine, he doesn’t talk about floor plans or fencing. He talks about sugar cane.

“Between Hillcrest and Waterfall, there was nothing but sugar cane,” he remembers.

“No shopping centres. No estates. Just a dirt road and a bold idea.”

That idea walked into his office one day in the early 2000s in the form of John Bezuidenhout, a local developer who had recently returned from Australia and the United States, inspired by the lifestyle estate communities he’d

seen abroad. “He asked me if I thought the Le Domaine concept would work, and if we’d invest in it,” Keith recalls. “It was targeted at the active over-50s, which was something very unique and exciting, that was the spark.”

Wakefields said yes, and the company became not just the

on-site sales team behind Le Domaine, but one of the founding investors in what would grow into one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most iconic lifestyle estates. Alongside developers Nico van Rooyen, Andrew Aitken and his family, Richard Crocker, Tom Dalloway, Trevor Botsis and others, Le Domaine was built, brick by brick, village by village.

The Wakefields’ on-site sales team began selling units as early as 2002. “We started in a park home in the middle of nowhere,” remembers Keith. Led by the formidable Jenny Aitken, the team played an instrumental role in launching

and selling each phase of the development. Over the course of 15 years, the Wakefields’ sales team successfully sold all 695 units, a testament to both the demand for the estate and the strength of the team behind it. Jenny, known for her professionalism, warmth, and deep commitment to the community, became a trusted face within the estate and helped set the tone for the level of service that followed.

Backed by a small but dedicated group of sales consultants, the team didn’t just sell property; they helped build a legacy.

What also stuck was the promise of lifestyle. It was never just about bricks and mortar. Every facility or feature that the professional team committed to building was ﬁnalised.

“They were part of the community,” says Keith. And we’re proud to still have our on-site Wakefields Le Domaine sales team that continues to serve the community with the same care, continuity, and commitment 21 years on.”

Le Domaine was built with longevity and lifestyle in mind. The homes feature practical, single-level designs that have aged gracefully, both in layout and appearance. “The designs have truly stood the test of time,” says Keith. “They still feel modern. They still work.” The quality of the build is evident throughout the estate, with residents from time to time modernising their finishes without needing to alter the core structure.

From the beginning, the estate had a distinct French flavour. Village names like Bordeaux and unit types like Monte Carlo became household names. What also stuck was the promise of lifestyle. “It was never just about bricks and mortar. Every facility or feature that the professional team committed to building was finalised.

The lifestyle centre, the restaurant and bar, the gym, both the indoor and outdoor pools, the bowling green, tennis courts, and the frail care centre. All of it came to life.”

Outside, the beautifully landscaped gardens, bird-rich wetlands, and tranquil walkways create a peaceful environment that encourages outdoor living. With 24-hour security, a strong sense of community, and every amenity within reach, Le Domaine continues to meet the needs of those seeking a secure, well-run, and fulfilling lifestyle.

Le Domaine was also a marketing pioneer. Rugby legend Ian McIntosh became the face of the estate, embodying the “active over 50s” lifestyle. “He was the first of what later became a trend: rugby stars as estate ambassadors. Ian McIntosh sitting on a HarleyDavidson for one of the launches is an iconic image which people still positively recall even to this day.”

Over the years, Keith has watched the estate grow, not just in size, but in soul. “The community is what makes it special,” he says.

Behind the scenes of Le Domaine’s success is a team of professionals who have kept the estate running with care, consistency, and excellence. From the dedicated maintenance and gardening crews who ensure the grounds are always immaculate, to the events team or staff who bring life to the clubhouse and foster a true sense of community. Every detail has been thoughtfully managed. The frail care centre, widely regarded as first-class, remains a major drawcard for residents and their families.

“The way this estate is run is something I have huge respect for,” says Keith. “The management team, the body corporate, the trustees, they’ve done an incredible job over the years, always reinvesting and always putting the residents

first.” With strong leadership, sound financial planning, and a stabilisation fund, the Le Domaine team has set a standard that few estates can match.

So, what does Le Domaine mean to Wakefields? “It’s part of our DNA,” Keith says. “It helped open doors to future developments like Somerset Valley, Zimbali, the Pearls of Umhlanga, and Cotswold Downs. But it’s more than that. It’s been one of our most successful and meaningful partnerships. The demand has never gone away,” he adds.

Asked to describe Le Domaine in three words, Keith doesn’t hesitate: “Successful. Memorable. Trendsetter.”

And would he ever live there himself? He smiles. “Let’s just say, don’t be surprised if you see Marion and me enjoy all the estate has to offer one day.”

Our Colourful History

A Smash Hit at Le Domaine

Le Domaine’s 21st Birthday was marked in grand style with the revival of our much-loved Pantomaniacs, this time presenting a sparkling Variety Show titled Our Colourful History

I originally wrote and planned this for the stage in 2020, but

the production was delayed by COVID-19. Ironically, many of the costumes were created during those “stay at home” months, waiting patiently for their moment under the lights. With a few new tweaks, updated Google searches, and a couple of fresh skits penned by Eileen Hart, the dream finally came alive in 2025.

From the start, Management’s encouragement was invaluable, ensuring the show became the centrepiece of our 21st Birthday celebrations. To rekindle enthusiasm, Ann Gibson unearthed videos of earlier Pantomaniac productions, which were shown monthly in the Conference Room. These nostalgic screenings created

WORDS LES HEGER

wonderful anticipation—and reminded us just how much fun resident theatre can be.

Once the cast was assembled (with a little persuasion for some of the men), rehearsals began in earnest. Over weeks and months, even, the transformation was remarkable. Many who had never stepped on stage before discovered hidden talents, new confidence, and the joy of performing together. The backstage team, just as vital as the actors, ensured every detail was handled—from props and lighting to the quick-fire costume changes that brought extra sparkle to the show.

Special thanks must go to the invaluable members of our production committee. Eileen Hart not only provided new material but was also a trusted sounding board, projectionist, and sound technician throughout rehearsals. Annette Searle proved to be my right-hand woman—calm, organised, and efficient in all the details I was forever forgetting. Ellen Machanic, our costume genie, brought creativity, an eye for colour, and flair to the stage. Without their support, the show simply would not have come together.

The four performances sold out faster than anyone expected, leaving many disappointed not to get tickets. But that spoke volumes about the support, curiosity, and love for community theatre in our estate. And for the willingness to be laughed at, as well as with our neighbours. The applause and the smiles of our audiences told us that Our Colourful History was not only entertaining but also uplifting! Proof that shared creativity and teamwork can bring out the very best in us all.

Already, there’s a buzz about what might come next. Will it be a pantomime? If you’ve got an idea—and the passion to see it come alive—why not step forward? We’d love to hear from you and keep the magic of resident theatre alive.

HOW TO BE PREPARED

WHEN HEALTH FAILS

WORDS BY MELLA FIDUCIARY

Life doesn’t always give us a warning. A fall, a stroke, or even a diagnosis can turn everything upside down. In that instant, families often find themselves scrambling to keep the household running. The best gift you can give yourself and your loved ones is preparation.

MARRIED COUPLES SHOULD SHARE THE LOAD

With many couples, one person quietly handles “all the admin” like by paying the bills, or keeping medical aid claims up to date. The other partner may barely know what debit orders are going off, or where the insurance policies are filed. If illness strikes the one who is “tech savvy,” then the other partner is left overwhelmed.

The solution is simple but powerful:

• Sit together and make a list of monthly bills and debit orders.

• Make sure both of you can access at least one bank account for everyday expenses.

• Swap roles from time to time and let the other person pay the bills for a month, just to get comfortable.

• Give each other Power of Attorney.

This way, if one of you is suddenly in the hospital, the

other won’t be left wondering how to keep the lights on.

WHAT ABOUT DEMENTIA OR STROKE?

In South Africa, a Power of Attorney (POA) only works while the person who granted it still understands what it means. Once mental capacity is lost, the authority ends. It’s also worth noting that many banks will only accept a bank-specific POA for accounts held with them. Without the right authority, families may be unable to act when it matters most.

A POA is useful for short-term help, for example, if someone is in the hospital but still aware of their decisions. It is not a solution for diminished mental capacity. At that point, the family must apply through the High Court to appoint a curator bonis to handle finances.

Couples in this situation should also plan for the caregiver’s “what if.” What if the healthy spouse falls ill first? Families should decide early who will step in, whether it’s an adult child, a trusted relative, or a professional trustee.

WHAT IF YOU ARE A SINGLE RETIREE?

Without a spouse to assist, it is important to choose someone you trust to discuss your wishes when something unfortunate happens. This could be a sibling, close

friend, or a professional. Establish a POA and store a folder containing your will, medical aid details, debit order information, and banking details in a secure location known to your chosen person. You can prepare an affidavit to specify who you want appointed as your curator persona and bonis, in case it becomes necessary. This way, you can maintain some influence over the situation.

MOVING FORWARD

Talking about illness and incapacity isn’t easy, but planning ahead is about giving yourself and your family peace of mind. With a few conversations and the right paperwork in place, you’ll know that if life takes a sudden turn, you’ll all be ready.

If you’d like help getting these plans in order, Mella is here to guide you.

Celebrating personal growth, change and limitless possibilities

Andrew Mills is no stranger to challenge. His life has been marked by a pursuit of growth, endurance, and the determination to make every moment count. From walking hundreds of kilometres through the Kruger National Park, from summiting Mount Kilimanjaro, to diving in oceans around the world as a qualified Divemaster, he has learned that life’s defining experiences often begin with a single step of courage.

His connection to Le Domaine is deeply personal. For the past 14 years, his parents made the estate their home, where they built community and found friendship, embracing meaningful living. For Andrew, too, Le Domaine became a foundation—not only a link to family but also a training ground for his greatest adventures!

Le Domaine is spread across 35 hectares. Its landscaped gardens, tranquil waterways, and indigenous vegetation frame a vibrant hub. Every path and every facility reflects 21 years of steady growth, mirroring the resilience of the people who call this place home.

That same resilience has carried Andrew two-thirds of the way through The Kruger Trail—a 650 km wilderness trek in six stages, carrying a 20-30kg backpack. The trail is unsupported, requiring hikers to dig for water, cook over open ground, navigate terrain

alive with the Big 5, and sleep in tents. To date, he has completed 400 km, with the final 250 km to be conquered in the coming months. For Andrew, the trail is a vivid reminder that progress is not about speed but choosing to keep moving forward.

In 2017, Andrew reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. That climb represents life itself: breaking down impossible goals into manageable steps, relying on the strength of a team, and confronting the voice within that says “you can’t.” Kilimanjaro reaffirmed that sometimes the greatest competitor we face is not others, but ourselves.

When scuba diving, Andrew has explored sites across the world, sometimes alongside sharks. What many see as fear, he views as possibility. In life, as in the sea, the “sharks” are not always predators; often, they are opportunities disguised as challenges. It is a perspective that resonates with the residents of Le Domaine—a reminder that saying “I can” or “I can’t” often determines the outcome before the journey even begins.

What you focus on, you feel— and every action begins with a decision. For residents at Le Domaine, those decisions can be as simple as walking the estate paths, swimming in the heated pool, enjoying a game of croquet, or sharing a meal in the restaurant. Each choice, no matter how small, becomes a declaration that life is meant to be lived.

The story of Le Domaine is not only about its facilities and landscapes, but about the people who embrace courage, resilience, and hope. It mirrors Andrew’s own journey— proving that growth is possible at every stage of life, and that every day reminds us how valuable living really is.

Meet the

team

Warning: meeting the Le Domaine team may cause excessive smiling, laughter, and a strong desire to join the fun! Get to know the faces behind the magic, and discover what makes each of them tick.

Francoise (A.K.A. Frances) Mans | Estate Manager

• Length of service: a very long time - 16 years

• A fun prank Frances plays at Le Domaine is when a new employee joins our team, she sends them to look for unit number 17 in Village Nice. To this day, no one has found this unit.

• Frances’ favourite scriptures: “For we walk by Faith, and not by sight” - 2 Corinthians 5:7 and “Do everything in love” - 1 Corinthians 16:14.

Lesley Clarke | Financial Manager

• Length of service: nine years.

• Lesley recalls that when she first joined Le Domaine, she thought it was a sleepy hollow; little did she know how busy it was! “There are always new developments to navigate, and there is no such thing as a ‘normal’ day at Le Domaine.”

• Lesley lives by the words “Carpe diem” (seize the day) and treats the present as a present.

• Length of service: three and a half years.

• One of Dieter’s best memories to date is the day he came for his interview. He has never looked back.

• Dieter lives by the motto: “Be the difference and make a difference,” and you might always hear him humming his favourite song, “Follow the Sun” by Xavier Rudd.

Joanne La Réservée PA to the Estate Manager

• Length of service: seven and a half years.

• One of Jo’s favourite events at Le Domaine is the Annual Spring Walk.

• Jo goes by the saying: ‘Live for today.’

Dieter Hiestermann | Maintenance Manager

Caron Hepburn

Reception Administrator

• Length of service: Caron is Le Domaine’s spring chicken. She has been with the team for about a month.

• Caron is moved by the wonderful, warm welcome she has already received, and she lives by the saying, “Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. Live every day with Love, Hope, and Peace.”

Zietske de Villiers

General Administrator

• Length of service: three years.

• Zietske loves it when residents hug her to show her their love and appreciation.

• Her favourite song is “I’m Only Human” by Christina Perri. Young or old, we all make mistakes, but we learn from them and move forward in life. Be happy and live life to the fullest, because life is short.

Lydelle Goddard | Lifestyle Co-ordinator

• Length of service: three years.

• Lydelle sometimes uses big words so that she can sound photosynthesis.

Things Lydelle can’t do:

• Eat only one piece of chocolate.

• Cook the right amount of pasta.

• Judge the speed of an escalator.

• Handle any temperature below 18˚C

Lydelle’s favourite things are: sunshine and her Black cat named Diesel.

• Length of service: 12.5 years.

• Glenda says that she has acquired so many fond memories on the estate, but one that stands out was when residents and staff did the ‘Jerusalema’ dance in groups on the estate during the COVID-19 period, masks and all!

• Glenda says, “A fun fact about me is that no one believes me when I say I HAVE SEEN A GNOME.”

• Glenda’s saying is that you should never look down at someone unless you are helping them up.

Jo-Anne Hounsom | Accounts Administrator

• Length of Service: six years.

• One of Jo-Anne’s favourite memories is from the spring walk when she got to marshal at Alsace dam. She recalls taking her binoculars, as she enjoyed the birdlife and dassies while waiting for the residents to complete their walk.

• Her favourite quote is from her dad, Charles. Often, before sending her off to school, he would say, “Remember, try your best to do your best, to be your best.”

Glenda Coetzee | Call Centre Administrator and H&S Co-ordinator

Neighbour

Awalk down memory lane with our dearest neighbour, Dave Abbott.

Whilst visiting family in Westville during Christmas 2002, I noticed an advert in the window of an Estate Agent for a new residential estate in Hillcrest. My wife and I, after 40 years in Randburg, were considering moving to the Durban area and arranged to visit this Estate. After what felt like a neverending drive through a “country lane,” we came across a sign pointing to Le Domaine.

The estate consisted of two or three houses, an office building, and a small parking area amidst acres of sugar cane. We were warmly welcomed by the Estate Agents’ representative, Mandy Pannell, who has “grown up” with Le Domaine, and provided essential brochures and plans. We moved in August 2003 and appreciated her support during

the initial teething problems, helping us settle into our new home. I’m still living in the same house today! (My dear wife of 62 years passed on in 2022.)

Le Domaine was rapidly growing, with roads and houses in Bordeaux and Monaco. The main road, named Avenue Fontainebleau, was paved, while the side roads were cobbled. I remember when the estate residents were treated to a 2003 Christmas dinner by the developers, and a braai and get-together was arranged by residents on ‘our road’, many of whom are still living in their original homes.

In 2004, I started a walking group, which existed until 2019. We had great fun walking around the estate as it grew; we also ventured into Camp Orchards, which was initially separated by a single wire. In the early days, our meetings

were held in the open parking area, many times with sharp stones digging into our buttocks as our route was on unpaved walkways. I recall many times navigating—and jumping over— puddles of mud. Our walkways today are such a blessing.

A lot of attention was paid to the aesthetics of the estate; dams, streams, artificial rocks, and waterways, which are a hallmark of the present-day estate and have made it attractive and a home to a myriad of birds today. I have watched many trees grow from small saplings into large, majestic trees.

Our home has become a sought-after estate with a great reputation, thanks to the tireless efforts of trustees, management, and staff, as well as the in-house maintenance, our security teams, our contracted garden, and our cleaning services, for their outstanding work in maintaining our estate’s high standards.

It is a beautiful estate, and it’s MY HOME.

DAVE ABBOTT

DAVE AND MANDY STANDING OUTSIDE HIS HOME IN VILLAGE BORDEAUX, 22 YEARS AFTER THEY FIRST MET.

Get to Know Your Birds

FUN FACT:

Despite their brilliant plumage, malachite kingﬁshers can be surprisingly hard to spot because they’re small and often remain very still while perched.

The malachite kingﬁsher (Corythornis cristatus) is a small, vividly coloured bird found across much of sub-Saharan Africa, belonging to the Alcedinidae family. Reaching approximately 13 cm (five inches) in length and weighing between 12-19 grams, this striking freshwater kingfisher boasts a bright, iridescent blue crown with black streaks, deep metallic blue back and wings, and orange-rufous face and underparts with a white throat patch. Its long, sharp bill is bright red, although black in juveniles, and its feet are also red. The bird’s call is a high-pitched, sharp “tsip-tsip” or “tsee-tsee” sound, often repeated quickly. Malachite kingfishers inhabit areas near slow-moving or still freshwater bodies, where they feed on small fish, aquatic insects, crustaceans, and tadpoles. They hunt with precision, perching low above the water before diving to catch their prey. During breeding, they excavate a tunnel into a riverbank to create a nesting chamber, typically laying 3-6 white, glossy eggs, with both parents sharing incubation and feeding duties.

PHOTO FRANK KIHN

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.

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

A SangriaSpring with Strawberries and Mint

INGREDIENTS:

• 354 ml light and dry white wine

• 221 ml berry-flavoured vodka

• 88 ml fresh lemon juice

• 44 ml simple syrup

• 2 cups sliced strawberries

• Mint sprigs, for garnish

METHOD:

Combine all liquid ingredients in a large container and stir well to combine, then add the strawberries. Cover and let it rest in the fridge overnight.

To serve, ladle into ice-filled cups or wine glasses, and garnish with a large mint sprig.

Audiologist

Mandy Pillay

B. SP & H (UDW) Cert. Vest Disorders (UCT)

Audiologist

Louise Molina

B. Comm. Path (Audiology) (UKZN)

Additional Training in Cochlear Implant MAPPING and Rehabilitation (UP)

• Diagnostic audiology for Adults and Children

• New born hearing assessment in Nursery NICU and outpatient

• School hearing screenings

• Hearing Aid evaluations and ﬁttings (Signia, Oticon, Widex, Phonak)

• Vertigo/ Dizziness assessment and management

• Hearing implants (Cochlear Implants, Bone conduction implants, Middle ear implants)

• Auditory Processing Disorders - Assessment and management

• FM systems

• Swim Plugs, Earmolds, Ear Protection

Busamed, Hillcrest Private Hospital, Suite 10 Life, The Crompton Hospital, Suite 53 Central bookings – 031 701 8429

• Mobile services on the estate & in the Upper Highway area

• Rooms based across the road from Le Domaine, at Clifton Hill Estate

• Medical aid rates 083 779 3103