Suite 104, San Hall Office Park, Kirsty Close, Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal
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www.fabmags.co.za ONLINE www.issuu.com/fabmags PRINTED BY ROC Media COVER
Chris Allan Photography
PUBLISHER FROM THE
It's that time! The tree is up, gifts are being wrapped, and 2025 is wrapping up! We hope this year has treated you well, and if not, here's to a fresh start in 2026! in this edition, we embrace the new changes at Seaward Estate. The rebranding and ethos will be shown across these pages. The Design Review Committee shares their goals and efforts being made to ensure Seaward Estate remains a sought-after place to live. The Homeowners Association will also be rolling out comprehensive property inspections across the entire community soon.
in the ‘Nature’ feature, Dr Foley shares practical tips for summer gardening: how to manage rain, choose heat-resistant indigenous plants, and prevent erosion for a thriving summer.
Speaking of summer, there’s a beautiful line-up of community events to enjoy over the holidays!
As we go into the festive season, the security team also shares a few tips and smart ideas to stay vigilant and safe this holiday. As we end off the year, love those around you hard, hug a little longer, tomorrow is not always promised.
Till February! Be blessed!
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 subsidized by Seaward Estates or the SEMHOA.
and the FabMags team
Emotional Support and Guidance o ered by a Quali ed Lay Counsellor
I offer skilled listening, empathy, confidentiality and a way to find some meaning in what is happening to you. You will have the opportunity to see your own struggles and difficulties in a new perspective.
My services are free of charge and I am available for counselling sessions in your home, online or at a mutually agreed venue.
My Qualifications → LifeLine – Counselling Skills Training & Personal Growth Training Course *Seaward Resident*
*Callout fees will apply support@semhoa.co.za 032 946 0685 or 063 769 4996
dmaharaj@ballito-estates.co.za 032 946 2055
082 391 1911
072 809 5806 / 082 331 3256
It’s in Our Nature
Not by chance, but by design
A New Chapter for Seaward Estate
As the sun sets on 2025 and we step into the promise of a new year, we are beyond excited to unveil something very special: the re-launch of Seaward Estate’s brand identity. This is not just a new logo or a fresh coat of paint. it is a proud celebration of who we have always beenBallito’s original gated estate - and a confident declaration of where we are going: a secure, nature-first community that is future-ready, authentically connected, and naturally beautiful.
Why now?
Seaward Estate has always stood apart. Established as one of the very first gated communities on the North Coast, we have grown organically over the years into a diverse, multi-generational neighbourhood that people are genuinely proud to call home. Yet the way we told our story no longer reflected the pride you feel when you drive through our gates, the peace of mind our 24/7 security delivers, or the quiet magic of walking the greenbelts and forests while listening to over 80 species of birds.
We went back to our roots - literally. We walked the wetlands, studied the rare swamp orchids, watched the blue duiker dart between the trees, and spoke to residents, young and old. What we heard was clear: This place feels different. It feels real. It feels like home.
What does the new brand stand for?
It’s in Our Nature - our new strapline - captures the very essence of Seaward Estate in four simple words.
• to: live securely with 24/7 gated access,
PHOTO CHRIS ALLAN PHOTOGRAPHY
proactive patrols, and a proven track record of safety.
• to: stay connected to each other through braai pods, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and the monthly Seaward Press. To the things that matter - The Well with its coffee and pizza shops, play areas, retail, the hospital, the school and the beach just minutes away.
• to: protect what matters: a registered conservancy, rehabilitated wetlands, ecopassages for wildlife, and a commitment to indigenous planting in every public space.
• to: belong from first-time buyers to growing families, remote workers to active retirees - everyone finds their place here.
• to: future-proof our community dual fibre networks, water reticulation upgrades, a structured capex plan, reasonable levies, and
The new brand is simply a clearer mirror held up to the community you have built and continue to nurture every day
exciting new facilities on the horizon (watch this space for news on the community centre).
What will you start seeing?
• A refreshed logo that echoes the sun rising over our coastal forest and the graceful flight of birds above our greenbelts.
• A calm, confident colour palette inspired by our surroundings: warm sun orange, deep sea teal, soft heritage cream, and rich forest green.
• Photography that celebrates the small, beautiful moments - dew on a leaf, children racing to school together, neighbours sharing a sunset braai, birds and butterflies of many varied colours,
• Consistent, proud branding across signage, the Seaward Press, social media, and every property listing.
This re-launch belongs to all of us
The heart of Seaward Estate has always been its people. The new brand is simply a clearer mirror held up to the community you have built and continue to nurture every day. Whether you’ve been here since the very first phase or you’ve just moved in, thank you for choosing Seaward. Thank you for caring about the trees, the trails, the
children laughing on the trampoline, and the quiet assurance that comes with knowing this is one of the safest, most connected places on the North Coast. Here’s to closing 2025 with gratitude and stepping into 2026 with renewed pride.
It’s in our nature to live well - and together, we always will.
With warmest festive wishes, The Seaward Estate Master Homeowners Association & Team.
Nature, Neighbours, and the Heart of Ballito. Seaward Estate
Beautiful 3-bedroom double-storey house with beautiful sea views. The bedrooms are spacious, and they all open onto a covered balcony overlooking the ocean. Immaculate kitchen, open-plan dining room, and TV room. There’s a lovely entertainment area in the enclosed courtyard, as well as in the patio area. Manicured garden, double garage with a level driveway, and plenty of parking space. Newly renovated with beautiful finishes and neat as a pin. Solar system, as well as a JoJo tank with a pump connected to the house. It is a dream come true! R4 490 000
KARIN VAN ROOYEN 083 228 4948 karin@lloydsrealestate.co.za
SECURITY
& Estate Update
As we move into the festive season, your Trustees, Estate Manager, and security team remain focused on keeping our Estate safe, peaceful, and enjoyable for everyone. Below is a summary of the key security and ruleenforcement matters discussed at the recent portfolio meeting, together with the actions now being implemented.
Reinforcing Estate RulesEveryone’s Responsibility
A number of pet-related noise complaints and general noise disturbances were reported during October. While the majority of residents are considerate neighbours, a few repeated incidents remind us all that the Estate Rules apply equally to every home.
Please remember:
• Dogs must always be kept under control and may not roam freely.
• Continuous barking or any noise that disturbs neighbours (day or night) is not permitted.
• The Estate rules regarding noise curfews and considerate behaviour remain in force.
Estate management and security will continue to engage with the owners concerned and, where necessary, apply the formal complaint and fining procedure.
Increased Security Visibility
Following reports of teenagers and other groups causing disturbances after dark, iPSS Security and our on-site reaction team have been instructed to significantly increase
patrol frequency and visibility, especially during evening and night shifts. Residents are encouraged to immediately report any suspicious or disruptive behaviour to the guardhouse or the iPSS control room.
Just a few reminders as we approach the holidays
Administration
• Residents are reminded that collecting domestic workers or gardeners from outside the gate is strictly prohibited. Please arrange for them to be dropped off and collected inside the Estate.
PHOTOS CHRIS ALLAN PHOTOGRAPHY
SEMHOA Year-End Closure for Contractors
• Please be advised that the Estate’s annual construction shutdown period will commence on Monday, 15 December 2025, and conclude on Sunday, 11 January 2026
• Construction activities may resume on Monday, 12 January 2026.
• All contractors and service providers are required to vacate the Estate by the close of business on 15 December 2025
Pets
• A new “Chip Your Dog” and anti-roaming campaign will be launched shortly. A formal letter will be sent to all residents, and security will step up enforcement against loose dogs.
Church Member Access (Sundays & Special Events)
New guidelines have been introduced to balance
the needs of the church with Estate with security requirements:
• On Sundays, only the driver is scanned; passengers are counted and a temporary code issued.
• Church members may proceed only to the church premises and nowhere else on the estate.
• The church will accept responsibility for ensuring its members adhere to this rule and will station representatives along the route to guide vehicles.
• For mid-week meetings or individual visits, a formal access code will be required in advance.
A follow-up meeting with church representatives has been scheduled to finalise the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
Infrastructure & Equipment
• Fibre installation for additional cameras at San
Tarena Park has been approved, and we are awaiting the contractor's scheduling.
• New signage for unauthorised use of common parking bays is being designed and will be rolled out soon.
Thank You for Your Cooperation
A secure and harmonious Estate is only possible when every resident plays their part. Please familiarise yourself with the Estate Rules (available on the SEMHOA website), ensure your domestic staff, tenants, and contractors are aware of the access procedures, and report any concerns promptly.
Together we keep our neighbourhood a safe and peaceful haven that we all chose.
On behalf of the Trustees, Resident Manager, and the entire security team, we wish you and your loved ones a joyous, peaceful, and safe festive season! May your homes be filled with laughter, love, and relaxation over the holidays. Please remain extra vigilant during this busy period - let’s all look out for one another so we can end 2025 and welcome 2026 in the wonderful community spirit that makes our Estate so special.
Holiday
Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? These local spots are perfect for making unforgettable memories - shoot a perfect shot, befriend a lemur, or challenge friends to a race.
A FANTASTIC DAY OUT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Embark on a guided walking safari through a stunning forest to see free-roaming indigenous wildlife and exotic primates, a truly unique experience.
Bring this advert with you to get 10% discount on your tickets.*
Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for news and special offers.
Open from 8.30am to 4.00pm every day, including all weekends and public holidays.
*Discounts applicable to individual day tickets and cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount or special offer.
+27 (0)32 004 0178 | 066 479 6138
info@hiddenforest.co.za | www.hiddenforest.co.za
Pamper yourself with various treatments that can maintain the health of your beautiful skin!
The primary role of the Design Review Committee has always been to encourage a safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing design within the Estate while ensuring the guidelines are upheld, as well as the town planning regulations and building standards prescribed by the municipality. This is an effort to ensure that Seaward Estate remains a sought-after place to reside, appeals to buyers, and improves the property value while allowing existing residents to enjoy the experience of living in a cohesive environment.
in an Estate that is almost completely developed, the duty of the DRC has evolved. The majority of submissions received are additions and alterations, ensuring that even the smallest project
will enhance not only the individual home but the Estate in general is a priority. Homeowners are encouraged to make improvements and upgrade their homes, and the DRC hopes to facilitate this process while maintaining the high standard in design and construction.
Looking to the future, it is imperative that special consideration is given to the evolving dynamic of the Estate, new materials, finishes, and products that have become available, as well as the changing requirements of residents. in this light, the DRC is currently reviewing the existing guidelines to provide homeowners with a more up-to-date guide. The process is anticipated to be completed early in the new year and will hopefully inspire a renewed sense of possibility.
PHOTO CHRIS ALLAN PHOTOGRAPHY
Upcoming Estate-Wide
Property Inspections
As part of our ongoing commitment to enchancing and improving the beauty, and property values that make our Estate such a special place to live, the Homeowners Association will soon be conducting comprehensive property inspections across the entire Estate. These routine inspections will help us all maintain the high standards we’ve collectively agreed upon, ensuring the Estate remains an attractive and wellcared-for community for every resident.
Purpose of the Inspections
• To ensure compliance with the Estate Rules and Guidelines.
• To maintain and enhance the overall appearance of the Estate.
• To protect and support property values for everyone.
Our Built Environment Compliance Officer, will be carrying out the inspections with a friendly and supportive approach. The following key areas will be focused on:
Roofs & Exterior
• Clean, well-maintained roof tiles
• Gutters and downpipes clear of debris/ painted
• Rafter overhangs free of bird or wasp nests
• Exterior walls painted in the correct, approved colour and in good condition
Garden & Landscaping
• Garden fully planted
• Removal of invasive alien plant species
• 80/20 indigenous/exotic planting
• Grass cut, edges trimmed
• Weeds treated or removed
• Bush and shrubs neatly trimmed
General Property Condition
• No visible clutter or unused items stored outside
• Fencing upright, secure, and compliant with Estate standards
• All timber elements (pergolas, decks, etc.) treated or painted
• Driveways, paving, and drains clean and functional
• Air-conditioning units and JoJo tanks properly screened
• Washing lines discreetly positioned or screened from neighbours view
• Courtyards fully enclosed or adequately screened
Next Steps inspections will commence in the month of December
2025 You will receive advance notice of your specific inspection date. After each visit, a clear report will be provided, highlighting any items
that may need attention along with suggested timelines for rectification.
You will be invited to discuss these inspection reports with us such that we can assist you further in making the right decisions or to agree to timelines by which maintenance is to have been undertaken.
We truly appreciate your cooperation and pride in keeping our Estate looking its very best. A little effort from each of us goes a long way toward maintaining the welcoming environment we all enjoy.
Should you have any questions or need clarification on any of the guidelines, please don’t hesitate to contact the Estate Office at 032 946 0685 or email Zee directly at built@semhoa.co.za.
Thank you for helping us keep our community beautiful!
PHOTOS CHRIS ALLAN PHOTOGRAPHY
Beat the Heat & Rain
As we head into mid-summer, temperatures and humidity are rising. Heavy rainfall, storms and flash flooding have become a regular feature of summer gardening in KwaZulu-Natal coastal areas. Here are some practical strategies to make your gardening easier and more enjoyable, from dealing with heavy rain events to extreme heatwaves.
Preparing for rain events
Check out the pipework
Firstly, ensure that all gutters and downpipes are clear, free from leaks and working well. Many modern houses are
now required by law to have underground stormwater attenuation tanks, which allow high volumes of rainwater from downpipes to seep into the soil in a controlled way.
Direct water from the dwelling creatively
Second, directing surface water away from the house is key. Where you direct it is up to you as a homeowner. Normally, water will flow as surface runoff on impermeable driveway paving into stormwater drains … provided the plumber has done his job correctly. There are other,
less wasteful options. Water can be diverted (in part) into a low-lying garden area to create a mini wetland, complete with water-loving plants like Arums, Papyrus, Cyperus and Irises. On larger properties and even on the Estate itself, engineers make use of grassed swales, basically ditches that channel and slow the flow of surface water and direct it into dams, lakes or parks.
Get that JoJo tank now
Third, apart from re-routing stormwater, one can also invest in rainwaterharvesting techniques using modern slimline plastic tanks. This water can be used to water flower beds and lawn in the drier months or as needed. You will, however, need to include a booster pump to increase pressure for this task. Since the North Coast receives an average annual rainfall of approximately
Honey bells
Wild garlic
Pink powderpuff tree
850-1100 mm, it’s important to have adequately-sized tanks. These vary from 2000L to 5000L.
Rainwater purity and efficiency of capture vary. Sheet roofs are the most efficient at 90 per cent or more, while tile roofs are more absorptive of moisture. A simple rule of thumb is that 1 mm of rain on 1 m2 of roof yields approximately 1L of water.
So, for a 100 m2 metal roof in an area receiving 50 mm of rain, the calculation is: 100 m2 (roof size)×50 mm (rainfall)×0.9 (efficiency factor). The total harvested is 4,500L. Bearing in mind, the average December rainfall in Durban is between 101 mm and 121 mm, making it one of the wettest months. Suddenly, a couple of 5000L tanks became more realistic.
No bare soil please Finally, water can have a tremendous destructive force. Ensure that your garden and
property have absolutely no bare soil; this is an open invitation to soil erosion and washaways, as well as weed invasions when the temperatures rise. Cover all bare sand with either lawn or ground covers. There are two species that work very well on estates, these being Hen and Chickens (Chlorophytum comosum) and the Fairy star (Crassula multicava). These indigenous groundcovers are freely available, tough and adaptable for sun or deep shade. Another bonus is that they propagate and multiply easily.
Choose heat-resistant plants
By selecting and growing indigenous plants that occur naturally in the area, you increase the chances of gardening success. Such plants are more droughttolerant and forgiving of neglect. Local plants also create biodiverse ecosystems in your garden that encourage urban wildlife, butterflies and birds. Ground covers like Wild
garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) and Wild fox glove (Asystasia gangetica) are firm favourites around estates for this very reason. Hardy shrubs such as Cape Honeysuckle (Tecomaria capensis) for full sun and Honey bells (Freylinia tropica) for sun and shade are also heat beaters. Small trees for residential gardens include the Pink powderpuff tree (Barringtonia racemosa) and the Natal lavender (Hetropyxis natalenis). All these plants are freely available at your local nursery.
Summer brings its own joys and challenges, and by following some of the basic guidelines presented here, you will be able to relax and enjoy your property knowing that the main natural events of the weather are fully covered by wise and careful garden planning.
To learn more, contact: Dr Jonathan Foley of Ground Level Landscapes at 083 320 4335 or groundlevellandscapes5@ gmail.com
Cape Honeysuckle
Seaward Summer Sparkle!
Summer has officially arrived, and Seaward is shining! From golden reindeer glistening on manicured lawns to starlit pathways and verandas wrapped in soft festive garlands, our Estate has truly transformed into a coastal wonderland. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Community Braai on 29 November - The days are giving us everything we love about December: sunshine-filled mornings, braais sizzling all weekend long, and slow, happy strolls through our forest or down to the beach. As evening sets in, neighbours gather for sundowners, and
then comes that magical moment - when the lights flick on, and Seaward glows beneath a coral-andindigo sky. Pure bliss.
What’s Still Coming Up
• 13 December - Kiddies’ Fun Day: water slides and endless gigglesprepare for non-stop excitement!
• 14 December - Bird Ringing Morning: a gentle, educational family experience to connect with nature.
• 27 January 2026Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM): please
save the date - your voice helps shape our community.
Our Biggest & Brightest Hamper Drive Yet! A heartfelt thank-you for your generosity!
Together, we’re creating the most unforgettable festive surprise for our incredible security team. Their dedication keeps us safe all year - and your kindness is what makes Seaward truly special.
Friendly Reminder: Fireworks are strictly prohibited - unless carried out away from the forest, public roads etc, let’s protect our furry and feathered friends and keep the Estate peaceful. To everyone celebrating Christmas, may your day be merry, bright, and filled with joy. And to our entire Seaward family - thank you for contributing to the magic that makes our coastal home so extraordinary. Here’s to twinkling lights, warm hearts and the happiest of holidays!
By Dr Ria Maharaj
At CMW, we prioritize your health and wellbeing. Dr R Maharaj is dedicated to providing exceptional medical care tailored to your personal needs
