SIMBITHI
50 UMVUMVU, SIMBITHI’S HIGHEST PRICED SALE. PROUDLY SOLD BY LOCAL REAL ESTATE
" S i m b i t h i i s a p a r t i c u l a r l y s p e c i a l p l a c e f o r m e h a v i n g
g r o w n u p o n B e v e r l e y F a r m a s p a r t o f t h e L a d l a u f a m i l y
W a t c h i n g t h e e s t a t e e v o l v e o v e r t h e y e a r s a n d s e e i n g
t h e o r i g i n a l v i s i o n c o m e t o l i f e h a s b e e n a r e a l p r i v i l e g e .
L
C
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R
t e a m m e m b e r s h a v e b e e n a n i n t e g r a l p a r t o f t h e
S i m b i t
S a l e s a n d R e n t a l s t e a m a r e e x c i t e d t o c o n t i n u e s e r v i n g
t h e c o m m u n i t y a n d c o n n e c t i n g w i t h y o u . "
– Tim Johnson
Graham White, Managing Director
Tim Johnson, Founder & Principal
General Manager
Simbithi Eco-Estate gm@simbithi.com
General Manager From the
The timing of our spring edition is always intriguing in our office. As I write this, our team is collating and verifying proxies ahead of our Annual General Meetings, preparing for the two most important nights on our calendar. By the time you read this, we would have concluded the meetings and, most importantly, elected a new Board of Directors for the 2025/26 term.
On behalf of the team and I, congratulations to our new Board. We wish you a successful tenure and look forward to working with you toward the realisation of our strategic goals.
Venturing into the forests, we were privileged to participate in a study on the endangered Spotted Ground Thrush in August. One bird was ringed in Simbithi, and it was exciting to hear that there are at least three of these incredible birds that spend their winters in our Estate. We look forward to their return next year and thank Dr Jonah Gula for including Simbithi in the study.
We recently communicated exciting updates for the Simbithi Commercial Zone Management Association (SCZMA) precinct, of which we are a member. A second exit lane will open at the Club Gate next year, which will significantly assist in traffic
management during peak periods. We also look forward to the completion of the Verve office park, next year.
Moving into the third quarter, our community calendar is filled with exciting events for the family. We have Mediclinic Victoria joining us for a Wellness Day on the 13th, where you will be able to chat to several medical professionals and get free health screenings. Next month, we have the Stables Picnic on 2 October 2025, which is sure to be a wonderful day out, and of course, our popular Trick or Treat fun on Friday, 31 October 2025.
In the spirit of spring, many will look for opportunities for rejuvenation, which we often seek in the form of picking up our fitness levels. There are two excellent avenues on Simbithi which you may enjoy, starting with the energetic RUNSimbithi, which meets at the Heron every Wednesday morning for a brisk run through the Estate. Recently, a new group has begun exploring the Simbithi Trails twice a week. You will find WhatsApp groups for each of these in our Simbithi WhatsApp Community, and I encourage you to join.
Have a fantastic spring!
Marc Mc Clure
Editor From the
Iam a theatre kid. (Note, I said “am”, not was). As my sister recently put it: “Every stage Jo could find to be on, she was on it”. Absolutely so! My foray into the arts started with my lead role as Mary Poppins in our grade three production. I entered the hall on a skateboard to replicate her whimsical flight into Cherry Tree Lane - memories! I had several other notable performances, including Morgiana in Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves, Guy of Gisbourne in Robin Hood and Mowgli in The Jungle Book.
As a kiddo, I was the polar opposite of athletic (I still am), so I had to make up for my refusal to run, jump, lunge and swim by taking the starring roles and leading the choirs. So, when my father introduced my sister and me to “Dumb Dog” from Annie, it was easy to find my place in the music. Stories like The Sound of Music reinforced this, watching Maria lose all her worries in song in the mountains above the abbey.
The recent release of Wicked made my heart sing - literally - as I watched the world get swept up in the magic of classics like “No One Mourns the Wicked” and “Dancing through Life”. (I have defied more than gravity every time my husband begs me to stop singing the score!). Then, the 10-year reunion of the original company of Hamilton at the Tony’s this year left me screaming, crying, throwing up; all the things! The Tony’s opening number,
belted by vocal queen Cynthia Erivo, was an original composition for the show, called “Sometimes All You Need is a Song”. The lyrics underscore the importance of a song, literal and figurative, in the holistic navigation of all that life is. I have never resonated with an idea, more. Ask any of my colleagues here in the HOA building, especially the souls in the GM’s office upstairs, I am always singing. In one day, I can go from a “Joyride” with Roxette to a hollering “The Ants Go Marching” whenever we leave the office, insisting the squad joins me in a rousing “HURRAH, HURRAH”! I was tickled recently to hear one of my colleagues (I shan’t mention names) doo bee doo-ing their way down the passage.
A song is infectious. There’s no way you can hear a happy tune, hum it even, and not feel your cheeks start to bulge. Music is engineered to make us happy. It’s spring, and the birds are certainly leading the charge outside my office. They, like me, are always singing. That’s my encouragement to you, Simbithi. When you’re buoyant, when you feel like you’re sinking … baby, SING!
“So, when the world is looking gloomy, well … let that curtain rise, ‘cause the antidote is to find your note as we all harmonise! Sometimes all you need is a song; it’s all you need!”
Marketing & Communications Co-Ordinator
marketing@simbithi.com
Publisher Lorinda Scott | 082 562 7202 | lorinda@fabmags.co.za
Graphic Designer evashini naidoo | evashini@fabmags.co.za
Sales Director Lucille Wendler | 083 747 3694 | lucille@fabmags.co.za
Operations Director Sharlene Odayar | sharlene@fabmags.co.za
Copy Editor elvida Sydney | content@fabmags.co.za
Accounts accounts@fabmags.co.za
Contact Fabmags 032 946 0357
Head Office Suite 104, San hall Office Park, Kirsty close, ballito, KwaZulu-natal
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Online www.issuu.com/fabmags
Printed By ROc media
Cover Photo hUnt Properties
SF20 frameless patio enclosure system
As I write this, it is after a bumper weekend at the Club, and while planning for a few busy weeks ahead. I am pleased to share that our Club continues to perform well across departments, testament to the tireless, innovative work our team has put in behind the scenes to improve the offering and enhance #TheSimbithiExperience.
Essentially, we have focused on two broad areas: sustainably driving revenue and ensuring scheduled capital projects and maintenance works are executed as planned, which I am happy to share that we have excelled. We have also paid careful attention to infrastructure development, and by the time this magazine is in your hands, our Kids Play Park revamp should be nearing completion. Thank you for your patience with us in this area, families of Simbithi. We are excited for you to enjoy the new space.
Our food and beverage department continues to soar, particularly with the refreshed offering in the Fig Tree Restaurant. Sunday Carveries, Wednesday Curry Nights and Monday Nights Off provide an affordable offering for you to enjoy the best of what our chefs have to offer. We are ecstatic to have the big screen back on the deck for some rugby action, and we’ll be showing Formula 1, too! Round up the family and friends and come and enjoy yourselves, Simbithi. Up in events, we’re gearing up for year-end, with our packages officially launched.
If you have not seen them yet, I encourage you to chat with our team. With our second consecutive titles of Best Event Venue and Best Conference Venue in the 2025 Best of Ballito Awards, we can officially assure you that you’re in the best possible hands for your year-end parties, gala dinners, team builds or more intimate gatherings.
Speaking of being the best, the Best Golf Course in Ballito is also looking great. We recently completed a full audit of our cart paths with the Simbithi technical team, and we will schedule repairs based on critical priority areas. Our new course ablution facility on the 14th hole was completed in mid-July, marking another milestone in course development.
Recruitment continues for the key position of Sports Manager, and we hope to make an appointment, soon. In the interim, our team has stepped up to maintain the exciting atmosphere at the Sports Complex. We’ve introduced our new Bowls Corporate League and seen some encouraging interest. Tennis is also now open to external membership, which will drive revenue in this area.
Club General Manager From the Craig Nell
As we proceed into quarter three, I am excited for the end-of-year rush. Our team is ready to serve and assist you in creating an experience you will certainly enjoy.
We’ll see you on the deck!
General Manager Simbithi Country Club clubgm@simbithi.com
Simbithi
Snippets
A Round-Up of estate and club news
WHY, HULLO THERE!
We are always happy to see a brown hooded Kingfisher, and this dapper chap popped in to say ‘hi’ at the coral tree overlooking the main Gate.
Healthy at the Heron
Did you know that we now serve sourdough pizza bases at the heron Pizzeria? here’s a pizza that is gluten and dairy free: a delicious mediterranean on a sourdough base with extra chicken and caramelised onion. yum!
‘Bok Town Activated
We were incredibly excited to watch our boys in green and gold jog back onto the rugby field - can you tell? there are several events that truly get the gees on our deck going, and a solid Springbok show is one of them. the big screen is back this quarter! come and enjoy the ‘boks larger than life.
Jodi chetty and Ayanda Duma popped into Radio Life & Style to share more on the international Day for biological Diversity, recently. if you have not listened to the podcast, yet, make sure to visit our website’s Latest news tab to catch up. ON
Madiba Magic
Here are a few snippets of our Mandela Day Fun.
Faith Smith and Ayanda Duma sharing the love at RA Padayachee, where we planted a vegetable garden.
Behind-the-Scenes
We have recently been filming a new, official video for our estate, which has taken us through some of the most gorgeous pockets of Simbithi. here is a sneak peek of what it takes to get our team going … steaming cups of java on a crisp winter morning.
Well, then, it appears that certain members of #teamSimbithi have hidden talents - look at these perfectly swirled cupcakes? We’ll let you guess whose handiwork this is!
the very first cupcake packaged as part of our first activation.
Simbithi
THANK YO SIMBITHIANS
THANK YO SIMBITHIANS
A heartfelt thanks to all of our Simbithi resident have made Diva Dogs such a resounding success! We appreciate you al ove your furbabies
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There is just so much to see and do on Simbithi Eco-Estate. Below is the Estate’s diary of upcoming events. Isn’t life great on Simbithi? You can also view the events on our Simbithi App or on our website: www.simbithi.com/events
Weekly Events
MONDAY NIGHT OFF
An affordable array of starters, mains and a dessert prepared by our chefs, to give you a night off from the kitchen. Let us do the cooking!
WEDNESDAY CURRY NIGHT
indulge in the north coast's finest buffet: an array of fragrant curries with traditional sides. R250pp. booking essential: 032 946 5403
SUNDAY CARVERY
A sumptuous afternoon for the whole family. enjoy a selection of roasts with all the trimmings. R350pp. booking essential: 032 946 5403
Please note, the dates, times and costs printed are subject to change without prior notice.
TUESDAY LADIES’ MEDAL & PUTT [SIMBITHI CHARITY DAY]
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
ENVIRONMENTAL TALK
Venue Pavilion Room
Time 18:00 for 18:30
Cost R30 at the door
For more information: environmental@simbithi.com
RAATS WINE TASTING
An evening of wine, conversation and #theSimbithiexperience.
Time 18:00 for 18:30
Tasting R80
3-Course Dinner and Pairing R300
Tasting, with 3-Course Dinner and Pairing R380
Strictly no U18s and guests will be seated at tables of 10. Bookings sccmsc@simbithi.com
MEAT COMP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
INATURALIST TREE WALK
For more information: 032 946 8382 or environmental@simbithi.com
SEMS / SWAGGERS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
TUESDAY LADIES
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
WHISKEY PAIRING & TASTING
A sophisticated evening not to be missed. For more information: events@simbithi.com
QUIZ NIGHT
the country club brings you quiz night, sponsored by harcourts Dolphin coast and hosted by “the quiz Guys”. Venue the Fig tree Restaurant Time 18:00 Limited à la carte menu served Bookings foodbev1@simbithi.com or 032 946 5403
MEAT DAY / LAND ROVER
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
SEMS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
LADIES’ LEAGUE SCC V MECC
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
TUESDAY LADIES
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
MEAT DAY / PRIMO PROP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
SLAMMERS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
TUESDAY LADIES
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
HERITAGE DAY COMP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
KEERMONT WINE TASTING
An evening of wine, conversation and #theSimbithiexperience.
Time 18:00 for 18:30
Tasting R80
3-Course Dinner and Pairing R300 Tasting, with 3-Course Dinner and Pairing R380
Strictly no U18s and guests will be seated at tables of 10. Bookings sccmsc@simbithi.com.
CLUB REAL ESTATE 9-HOLE SHOOTOUT
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
MEAT COMP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
CAPTAINS’ CUP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
LADIES’ LEAGUE SCC V ZIMBALI
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
LA BRI WINE TASTING
An evening of wine, conversation and #theSimbithiexperience. Time 18:00 for 18:30
Tasting R80
3-Course Dinner and Pairing R300
Tasting, with 3-Course Dinner and Pairing R380
Strictly no U18s and guests will be seated at tables of 10. Bookings sccmsc@simbithi.com.
MEAT COMP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
BREAK UP / BREAK OUT DAY AT THE HERON
Snake show, jumping castles and lots of fun! more info coming soon.
OKTOBER & SOKKIE FEST
it's Oktoberfest with a twist of Simbithi sokkie! Live music, good food and of course...beer! For more information: sccmsc@simbithi.com
SEMS / SWAGGERS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
LADIES’ LEAGUE SCC V CAMELOT
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
TUESDAY LADIES’ MEDAL & PUTT
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
ENVIRONMENTAL TALK
Venue Pavilion Room
Time 18:00 for 18:30
Cost R30 at the door
For more information: environmental@simbithi.com
NORTH COAST SENIORS
07:30 shotgun start.
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
QUIZ NIGHT
the country club brings you quiz night, sponsored by harcourts Dolphin coast and hosted by “the quiz Guys”. Venue the Fig tree Restaurant Time 18:00
Limited à la carte menu served Bookings foodbev1@simbithi.com or 032 946 5403
MEAT COMP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
SEMS / SWAGGERS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
TUESDAY LADIES
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
MEAT DAY / LAND ROVER
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
SEMS / SWAGGERS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
GM’S CUP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
TUESDAY LADIES
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
SIMBITHI COMEDY EVENING FT KURT SCHOENRAD AND DAVE LEVINSON
For more information: sccmsc@simbithi.com
MEAT COMP PRIMO PROP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
SEMS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
CLUB REAL ESTATE 9-HOLE SHOOTOUT
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
MEAT COMP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
TRICK OR TREAT
Let the spook begin! For more information: marketing@simbithi.com 17 18 19 21
SLAMMERS / SWAGGERS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
CAPTAINS’ DINNER
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
ENVIRONMENTAL TALK
Venue Pavilion Room
Time 18:00 for 18:30
Cost R30 at the door
For more information: environmental@simbithi.com
MEAT COMP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
SEMS / SLAMMERS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
TUESDAY LADIES
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
QUIZ NIGHT
the country club brings you quiz night, sponsored by harcourts Dolphin coast and hosted by “the quiz Guys”.
Venue the Fig tree Restaurant
Time 18:00
Limited à la carte menu served
Bookings foodbev1@simbithi.com or 032 946 5403
MEAT DAY / LAND ROVER
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
SLAMMERS / SWAGGERS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
MEAT COMP / PRIMO PROP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
SEMS
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
TUESDAY LADIES
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
WINE TASTING
An evening of wine, conversation and #theSimbithiexperience. Let us pour you a selection of wines, paired with an expertly curated dinner. Strictly no U18s, and guests will be seated at tables of 10.
Venue the Dragonfly Restaurant Time 18:00 for 18:30
Cost R80
Bookings sccmsc@simbithi.com
WINE PAIRING
Let us pour you a selection of wines, paired with an expertly curated dinner. Strictly no U18s, and guests will be seated at tables of 10. Venue the Dragonfly Restaurant Time 18:00 for 18:30
Cost R650
Bookings sccmsc@simbithi.com
CLUB REAL ESTATE 9-HOLE SHOOTOUT
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
MEAT COMP
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
INTERNATIONAL DAY
For more information: 032 946 5407 or proshop@simbithi.com
Spring is traditionally the season of newness. When one thinks of the flavours associated with newness, one would consider fresh and zesty, bold tastes that dance across the palate with a zing, zap and a zhush! We challenged our kitchen to create a menu satisfying this rather descriptive brief and they - as always - delivered, with a flourish! the Simbithi Spring harvest table, compliments of executive Chef Godfrey Kinyanjui, Chef rahul Bansee and Chef Phumelele nyaba. We also have suggested pairings from assistant restaurant Manager, Mo therese. Let’s cook!
Suggested Pairing:
A non-traditional Belgian-style lager from Stella Artois. It has a bracing malt character and minimal hop bitterness with a mid-to-high level of carbonation, so it allows for a respite between bites and refreshes the palate accordingly. You may also try a Dry Riesling (Saurwein Chi or Illimis), Dry French or Spanish-style Cider, or a Manzanilla-style Sherry.
Ingredients
• 20g butter
• 1 large onion
• 30g carrots diced
• 30g peas
• 30g sweetcorn
• 15g celery
• 15g leeks
• 150ml white wine
• 150ml milk
• 1 tbsp plain fl our
• 600ml stock:
• 300ml chicken
• 300ml fi sh
• 150g new potato, diced
• A pinch of Hondashi
• A pinch of cayenne pepper
• 300ml cream
• 320g pack mixed fi sh (kingklip, shrimps, mussels, calamari, calamari heads)
• Chopped dill (keep extra for garnish)
• 10g garlic
• 120g streaky bacon (optional)
• Crusty bread to serve
Method
1. Heat the butter in a large saucepan over a medium heat, then add the onion, celery, leeks, bacon (if you are adding this), carrots and garlic. Cook for 8-10 mins until the onion is soft and carrots and bacon are cooked.
2. Add the wine and cook it off, then stir in the flour. Cook for a further two minutes, and then add the milk.
3. Pour in the chicken and fish stocks and bring it up to a gentle simmer. Add the potatoes, sweetcorn and peas. Cover, then simmer for between 10 and 12 minutes, until the potatoes are cooked through.
4. Add the Hondashi, cayenne pepper and salt to taste.
5. Tip the fish mix into the pan, and gently simmer for four minutes. Add the cream and shellfish, then simmer for a minute more.
6. Check the seasoning, and adjust for your preference, if necessary.
7. Sprinkle the chopped dill and serve with some crusty bread.
stArter
MAIN
Ingredients
• 250g button mushrooms, fi nely sliced
• 250g spinach
• 125g ricotta
• 1 tsp red chilli fl akes
• Salt
• Pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic, grated
• 125g cannelloni shells (approximately 8-10)
• 2 cups good-quality marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated mozzarella & cheddar mix
Method
1. Start by sweating the onions in olive oil. Once softened, add in the garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
2. Add the mushrooms and spinach, red chilli flakes, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Allow this to cook until mushrooms have released all their water. (Everything must reduce, and there must not be liquid left).
4. Lower the heat, then add in the ricotta, nutmeg and lemon juice. Stir until combined.
5. Allow the mixture to cool, then fill it into a piping bag. If you don’t have one, use a Ziploc bag with the corner snipped off.
(Chef’s tip: this is the most effective way of filling the tubes!)
6. Spread a quarter of the marinara sauce in a baking dish. Fill your cannelloni and arrange them on top of the sauce. Pour over the remaining sauce and top with the cheese mix. Keep some aside for an extra cheesy topping.
7. Bake at 180˚C for 30 minutes, until the cheese is golden.
8. When baked, top with more cheese and place back in the oven. In the kitchen, we usually gratinate ours in the oven in the red-hot Salamander.
9. Serve with a fresh salad.
Suggested Pairing:
The Doolhoof Malbec and Merlot 2023 has the pliable Merlot tannin and plummy dark fruit depth, and firm balance of acidity from the Malbec-leading part of the blend, which allows for the lactose in the cannelloni to be broken down with each sip. The tomato concasse beneath the cannelloni offers its own contrast that blends exceedingly well to the finishing structure of the wine.
Dessert
Ingredients
Caramelised Apples
• 4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
• 4 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp butter
• Red Heart Rum
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
Ginger-Infused Crumble
• 200g butter
• 200g icing sugar
• 400g flour
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• A dash of cinnamon
• Fresh ginger, grated
Method
Caramelised Apples
1. Heat a heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the sugar until it caramelises. It is ready when it turns from white crystals to golden-brown, amber liquid.
3. Add the apples and the cinnamon, stirring occasionally until golden.
4. Deglaze the pan with the rum. To deglaze is essentially to use the liquid to loosen the ‘golden bits’ on the bottom of the pan that will add flavour to your dish.
5. Set aside.
Ginger-Infused Crumble
1. Cream the butter and icing sugar. Keep beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add the remaining crumble ingredients (flour, baking powder, cinnamon and ginger) and gather and shape into a ball.
3. Refrigerate for at least an hour. Remove and then grate, using the large side of a grater. This is your crumble. Keep some of the dough aside, and…
4. …make ginger cookies! Roll out and cut out into desired shapes.
5. Place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake at 175˚C until golden brown. This should take approximately 15 minutes.
6. Here is how we serve ours:
a. Place the crumble onto the plate. Gently spoon your caramelised apples onto the crumble, and you may add some fresh fruit. We used strawberries.
b. Place a warm cookie on the side with a dollop of vanilla ice-cream! Enjoy!
A Sustainable Choice
During the last quarter, the Fig Tree Restaurant has brought in two new suppliers, each of which has a distinctly sustainable ethos, aligning with our strategy. Here is more about them:
3 Lads and a toucan Coffee Roasters
A Durban-based business that believes “coffee connects people, sparks creativity and
transforms everyday moments into something special.” The brand is passionate about nature and conservation, working closely with the Zululand Conservation Trust to provide financial support.
Cure house Meat
A speciality meat processor with a focus on ethical farming and treatment of animals, Cure House is based on a farm just outside Howick. They believe grass-raised animals, who live where they belong, are better.
Where a great future begins
What sets us apart?
• Robotics and Coding from Grade R
• Limited class sizes for individual attention
• Strong literacy and numeracy foundations
• Learning through play and discovery
• Caring and qualified teachers
• Safe, nurturing environment
Our curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity, build confidence and develop essential skills for lifelong success.
Enrol now for Grades R and 1
It has been said that home is not a place, home is a person. If these words are true, then the Indurjeeths embody them with warmth, grace and contentment. In this edition, we spend the afternoon with Arushtha, Videsh, Viyush, and Aarvi.
WORDS JODi chetty | PHOTOS chRiS ALLAn PhOtOGRAPhy
Mahogany Close is in quite a glorious spot in Simbithi. On a hill overlooking the Nsimbi Trail and the picturesque Warbler Dam, the Indurjeeth home is the first on the corner. A slightly obnoxious wind whips about as Arushtha appears around in the driveway, clutching the hand of an utterly adorable Aarvi (2), who is dressed in a white tutu. “It’s cold, I know,” Arushtha opens her arms for a warm, welcoming hug. “But she was very clear that this is what she wanted to wear, today, and she looks lovely!”
Pleased with her mother’s affirmation, Aarvi leads the way into the spacious family room, where her father, Videsh, and brother Viyush (8) are waiting.
Arushtha puts the whistling (how quaint!) kettle on to boil for a round of warm drinks and sets out platters of fruit and an array of sweet and savoury treats. There is a serenity in the home, as Videsh and Arushtha settle in to tell their Simbithi story.
The Durban-born couple had been married for just more than two years and were living in Richards Bay when
they decided a change was in order. “At that time, we just had Viyush, but we wanted our lives to be a bit more family-oriented,” Arushtha shares. “So, we went on the hunt, quite literally, with Ryan and Brett from Hunt Properties, for a new home.” Videsh recalls taking a liking to the elevated location of the property in Mahogany Close, andof course - the view. “We knew this was meant to be our home.”
For Videsh, a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for a group of companies, and Arushtha, a psychological counsellor who had decided to devote her time to their growing family, Simbithi seemed like just the thing. The Indurjeeths’ entry into Simbithi was rather eventful: they moved in during the weekend before the now infamous 2021
When asked what her favourite thing about Simbithi is, Aarvi whispers it to her parents, and Arushtha shares with an indulgent smile: “the zipline at the Kingfisher!”
KwaZulu-Natal riots! “We were in a new environment during a terrifying time, and we did not know a soul,” Arushtha remembers. “But we were bowled over by how this community came together, like it was the most natural thing.” Videsh joined the crew of residents who stepped in to assist with security patrols. “I got to see the Estate and learn parts of it I might ordinarily not have, especially during our perimeter walks. Of course, as we walked, we talked, and so I got to meet several other residents and hear their stories.” Arushtha adds that meals were shared amongst neighbours. “That was wonderful, the way we were welcomed, even in that way.”
Four and a half years later, the family is still content in Simbithi, particularly enjoying the lifestyle and facilities. They are regulars at the community events, ensuring they keep their eyes peeled for dates and registrations. The gents enjoy swims in the lap pool and the Guineafowl Sports Field, while the ladies favour an afternoon at the Heron enjoying chicken
nuggets and wood-fired pizza. “I also like spending time with Dad in the cricket nets,” Viyush smiles shyly. And, when asked what her favourite thing about Simbithi is, Aarvi whispers it to her parents, and Arushtha shares with an indulgent smile: “the zipline at the Kingfisher!”
May you enjoy many more blissful years at Simbithi, Indurjeeths!
Since its inception, hUnt Properties has been deeply connected to Simbithi ecoestate, one of KZn’s most prestigious residential communities. Over the years, our team has proudly represented landmark developments within the estate, matching discerning buyers with exceptional properties that capture the iconic Simbithi lifestyle.
Our success story in Simbithi began with the marketing and sell-out of Jacana Phase 2 - a premier residential development comprising 36 semi-detached and freestanding homes. Since then, we have gone on to consistently achieve strong results across the estate, with a total of 105 sales to date, valued at R528 million.
in recognition of our success, hUnt Properties was awarded top Selling business Property Practitioner of the year for Simbithi eco-estate in 2023 - a testament to our market expertise, service excellence, and deep-rooted connection to Simbithi.
beyond property, our involvement in the estate has extended to community initiatives, most notably our monthly hUnt cup golf event, hosted at Simbithi for four years. this popular tournament not only brought residents and guests together but also raised significant funds for the permanent clean-up of the 2km stretch of beach from Shaka’s Rock to Sheffield.
hUnt Properties continues to operate as a cohesive, highly
collaborative team, sharing insights, strategies, and networks to ensure every client benefits from our collective knowledge and expertise.
this synergy, along with our highend marketing offerings, allows us to deliver seamless, end-to-end support - from initial consultation to final handover - while maintaining the personal touch that defines our brand.
to learn more about our sales and rental offerings in Simbithi, please contact our hUnt team.
062 226 0000 sales@huntproperties.co.za www.huntproperties.co.za
The Journey of Simbithi’s Silver Medalist
When James McCallum returned to South Africa in 2019, his mother gave him a choice: cycle, paddle ski or run. He chose the latter, and now has four Comrades Marathons under his belt, three of which have yielded silver medals. This story, however, has a few delightful twists, turns, down and uphills, much like the route between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. Meet the (not so) reluctant runner.
“I gingerly started with the Umhlanga park run, and I wasn’t very good,” James leans back on the bench at the Heron Community Centre. His peak cap is swung backwards, and the sun is just setting behind him. “But, I kept going back because I liked the vibe, so I progressed from ‘not so good’ to not completely terrible. I found myself in the top three, regularly, and I really started to enjoy it.” Soon, James decided to tackle the 10km KZN trail run. “Only a silly little ten k,” he winks impishly. “Again, not too bad, so I was convinced to go for the Deloitte Challenge, which is twenty-one kilometres.”
As it happens, once James had become a regular runner, the idea of running that marathon was bandied about. In the midst of a global pandemic, though, the Comrades look a little different. “My first Comrades was the virtual edition in 2020,” James reminisces. “So, we were meant to run the ninety kilometres in loops around Umhlanga. I thought I would run half and get a medal for participation.” Though he started with a group, James recounts that the group slowly thinned out with every kilometre that passed. “Eventually, it was just my buddy and I, because everyone else bailed. So, I kept telling him I
would keep him company for another five kilometres. Then, another five, and another … until I had finished the full ninety. Crazy, isn’t it?” He did a second virtual Comrades in 2021, this time running for Humphrey the dog, raising awareness for the Durban and Coast SPCA. “A photo of me ended up on the front page of The Ridge Magazine, accompanying an article called ‘The New Normal’, which I thought was pretty cool!”
When 2022 rolled around, and the Comrades was restored to its full status, James pondered whether he would do it again. “Because, as you know, everyone says you aren’t really a Comrades runner until you’ve done an up-and-down run. I call it the Comrades con,” James rolls his eyes good-naturedly. “And, I hadn’t had the proper Comrades experience yet, so I figured I would lace up and give it a try.” He ran with his club, DHS Old Boys, as part of the B-batch. He remembers seeing the elite runners up front. “That race was painful. I kept cramping, and by the time I reached the finish line, I was doing a little old man shuffle to keep moving.” A time of 08:14 earned James his Bill Rowan medal, and he was chuffed. He was approached by Puma to be one of the brand’s running ambassadors. “Not bad for a silly marathon runner,” he quips.
An array of marathons have since characterised James’ running journey, including the Cape Town Marathon, Durban International Marathon and the Two Oceans, in which he’s earned two silvers. He started the 2023 and 2024 Comrades in the A-batch. “This year, Comrades changed the structure. I started in Group one, B-Batch, which is equivalent to the old A-Batch. Group one was reserved for top-seeded runners, and group two followed after.” His fourth Comrades in 2024 saw him run his personal best: 06:40!
He also found time to return to Spain, to the idyllic island of Menorca, where El Jefe (Spanish for The Boss) invited him on a trail run. “I thought I would represent South Africa, and show them what we’re made of,” he smirks. “We went eighteen kilometres in with a fifty-metre elevation, and I was quite chuffed with my performance. I was
“When I run, all the noise disappears. It’s one of the reasons I don’t run with music in my ears. I just want to hear my breath, my heartbeat and my footsteps; it’s that rhythm I love.”
then informed that that was just the warm-up, and a thirty-five-kilometre run awaited, with a solid elevation of a thousand metres,” he shakes his head at the memory. “Listen, I did my best, but…” he trails off, chuckling.
An old friend once told James that everyone runs for different reasons, a statement he still holds close. “Some run for money, some for status, some for the medals. My medals are in a drawer, so it is neither of those for me,” James says. “Running started as something I did to clear my head. Over time, it became a way to measure progress. Not against others, but against the version of myself from the day before,” He speaks of the peace he finds when his feet meet the road, or a quiet trail. “When I run, all the noise disappears. It’s one of the reasons I don’t run with music in my ears. I just want to hear my breath, my heartbeat and my footsteps; it’s that rhythm I
love.” His favourite time to run is early morning, when the air is clear. “That’s the time I use to clear my head and quieten my mind. There is nothing to beat it, and you get that runner’s high that tells you it isn’t really that bad, even if your body feels like you’re about to collapse,” he smiles. He joins the RUNSimbithi crew every Wednesday morning for his cool-down, and he does enjoy a run on Ladlau Drive. “I love to run alone. Some might say I’m an antisocial runner, I just think I’m more of a grumpy runner!”
When asked whether he will keep running Comrades, perhaps aim for a gold, James’s smile broadens. “I’ve met some incredible people through running, both here on the Estate and across the globe. It’s not just about pace. It’s about showing up, putting one foot in front of the other, and staying curious about what you might discover on the next hill.”
local real estate
A Home That Celebrates Both
GatherinG and ConneCtion
Words Chrissie Johnson
This elegant home, with two distinct living zones that both engage with separate outdoor living and entertaining areas, truly exhibits a flair for the extraordinaire.
The creative ease of flow throughout the home conceals the detailed care behind the design, while the choices of outlook offer both spatial and visual permeability. From the moment of arrival, the home's purposeful layout becomes evident.
A landscaped courtyard of paving and pebbles leads into a light-filled hall anchored by a large picture window framing serene views of the pool. On either side, two distinct living areas - each with soaring double-volume ceilings - extend seamlessly to their own covered verandahs, reinforcing the home’s fluid relationship between indoor living and outdoor relaxation.
The first lounge adjoining the entrance hall area opens on both sides to the outdoors, one being the enclosed entrance courtyard, which provides a sense of sanctuary plus privacy from the road and driveway area. The other side flows out onto an outdoor covered al fresco verandah adjoining the pool areas.
The ebb and flow of domestic living takes place in the high-ceilinged integrated open-plan kitchen, dining room and lounge zone, which also includes a striking spiral staircase that leads up to a third lounge/TV lounge upstairs. This efficiently planned living room layers different elements within a single space. It is where
Top LefT The airy entrance hall separates two living zones. This living zone opens on both sides to the outdoors, one being the attractive enclosed landscaped courtyard and the other a covered verandah overlooking the pool.
BoTToM LefT This large, tiledcovered outdoor verandah seamlessly interacts with the indoors and easily accommodates a large dining area complete with a built-in braai. ABoVe The two separate outdoor verandah spaces both overlook the pool and plunge pool areas. CeNTRe
RIGHT The attractive white kitchen with wood cabinetry accents and serene outward views provides a dedicated indoor cooking hub, and its separate scullery is positioned out of the sightline. BeLow The putting green area positioned below the outdoor deck verandah offers an additional outdoor leisure element to this refined home.
living and life happen, in varying shapes and scales, being able to comfortably host small and large crowds of family and friends, as well as a family’s own day-to-day needs. Additionally, its outlook also augments the generosity of space while capturing tranquil views.
Adding to the home’s individuality is a private, allweather putting green - an unexpected pleasure for the golf enthusiast and a rare feature that enhances the leisure offering. This refined home also offers a clear separation between the living, sleeping, and entertaining zones, allowing the home to serve varied needs with grace. It offers three bedrooms plus an independent self-contained flatlet, complete with a lounge, kitchenette and separate bathroom situated separately from the main house with its own staircase access.
Outstanding homes have one thing in common: a distinctive
design that, from the moment of entry, creates an indelible impression. Added to this is the fact that lifestyle is an important criterion for any residence - the threshold between interior and exterior being integral to a home’s appeal. Crafted with intention, this elegantly designed home offers a model of clarity about what matters in accommodating daily life, light, connections with the natural world, prioritising a life lived outdoors and of course sociability.
This home is available to purchase through Local Real Estate. For more information contact:
Amy English: 063 049 1087
Richard Anderson: 083 358 5902
Rory Anderson: 073 697 4159
Jake Morgan: 082 607 1229
My first encounter with genets was nothing short of magical. One evening, my husband arrived home from his veterinary hospital with a small box. Inside, curled on a heat pad, were two large-spotted genet kittens - eyes still closed, barely ten days old. Discovered in a woodpile and abandoned by their mother when the woodpile was removed, they had been brought in for hand-rearing.
They took eagerly to the bottle, purring as they suckled. Even after their teeth emerged and they were happily devouring chicken, they continued
nursing from neonatal bottles. Their soft coats were beautifully patterned - pale, grey fur marked with dark spots often tinged with russet, a bold black stripe along the spine, and long grey tails, ringed in black and ending in jet-black tips.
With large dark eyes, pointed faces, and soft rounded ears, they were both delicate and wild. Agile climbers from a young age, our ceiling soon became a jungle gym of suspended ropes and swinging tin-foil balls, and their evening antics kept us highly entertained. They were gentle, clean (they used a litter tray!), and quickly integrated with our young children and pets.
However, they remained shy around strangers.
As nocturnal animals, they gradually spent more time outdoors at night. By age two, coinciding with their natural age of sexual maturity, they stopped coming indoors altogether. They were never caged and had full access to our garden, eventually slipping back into the suburban wild of Westville where they belonged.
The Cape Genet: A Closer Look
The South African large-spotted or Cape genet (Genetta tigrina) is a striking nocturnal carnivore, endemic to Southern Africa. It differs from the lesser-spotted genet (G. genetta) by its larger russet-centred spots and solid black tail tip. The colour of the tip of the tail, white in the lesserspotted genet, is by far the easiest way to differentiate between these two species. Though often solitary, genets tolerate overlapping home ranges. They are remarkably clean and form small, pyramidal latrines, called scat middens. In the wild, their diet consists mostly of insects, spiders and small rodents. Occasionally, reptiles and frogs are eaten. Despite their climbing skills, birds are rarely part of their diet.
Natural predators include leopards, crowned eagles, large owls, pythons,
and domestic cats and dogs. Genets have adapted well to humandominated landscapes and are known to use roof spaces for both shelter and breeding.
Genets in KZN Urban areas
Dr Craig Widdows shared fascinating findings at a previous Simbithi environmental talk. Camera trap footage from Hillcrest, Kloof, and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi revealed urban genets adapting and persisting in fragmented habitats. Camera trap photos showed two incidents of genets hitching rides: one on a buffalo and one on a rhino! The analysis of scat in Dr Widdows’s study showed high consumption of pet food and waste, as well as invertebrates and rodents. Importantly, he advised that genets should not be artificially fed, a principle supported by Simbithi’s environmental policy.
He also emphasised that the provision of supplementary food items by residents has a significant effect on the diet and foraging behaviour of urban genets. Additionally, it also influenced the social behaviour of genets. Typically a solitary species, genets were observed communally foraging at waste sites and food trays of pet food and chicken provided by residents in Kloof and Hillcrest.
Genets on Simbithi
Several Simbithi residents have reported sightings of these elusive animals. I was delighted to see one recently while having supper with friends in Lalapanzi. A trail camera set in our garden confirmed further visits-not only from genets but also from bushbuck, common duiker, red duiker, porcupine, and even a cane rat.
Fast Facts: Large-Spotted Genet (Genetta tigrina)
• Family: Viverridae
Simbithi’s green belts and plentiful water make it an ideal genet territory
• Weight: 1.89 kg (male), 1.76 kg (female)
• Length: 65-108 cm (tail often longer than body)
• Colouration: Pale grey with dark spots (russet centres), grey tail with black rings and tip
• Lifespan: 8 years
• Maturity: 2 years
• Gestation: 70-77 days
• Litter Size: 2-3 kittens
• Habitat: Wooded areas with water; often found in gardens and rooftops in urban areas.
• Diet: Mostly small rodents and spiders. Also, insects, reptiles, frogs, birds and occasionally seeds & fruit. They are generalist opportunist foragers that adjust their diet according to seasonal variation in prey availability.
• Scat: Neat, pyramidal middens
Simbithi’s green belts and plentiful water make it an ideal genet territory. These secretive creatures are a perfect example of how wild animals can still flourish alongside us - provided we respect their space and keep our environments clean, connected, and free of artificial feeding. Have you seen a genet in Simbithi? Let us know - we’d love to build a community map of sightings!
References:
2015 Widdows, C. The ecology of large-spotted genets within an urban landscape. UKZN unpublished PhD thesis.
2018 Widdows, C. and Downs, C.T. Genets in the city: community observations and perceptions of large-spotted genets (Genetta tigrina) in an urban environment. Urban Ecosystems (2018) 21 (1):357–367
It’s the second instalment in our Hobbies of Simbithi series, and in this edition, we have unearthed a resident with an exceptionally intriguing pastime. Well, let’s see: it involves the good game, mementoes, travelling, considerate mates who encourage this hobby, and…a man cave? Meet the charming René du Toit and his enthralling collection of golf markers!
WORDS JODi chetty | PHOTOS chRiS ALLAn PhOtOGRAPhy
The du Toit home finds itself tucked into a shared driveway on Ironwood Way, and it is quite the hubbub to manoeuvre into a suitable parking spot. The du Toit’s two dogs deliver an exuberant greeting, and René gets up from a table overlooking the pool, where he is polishing a wooden ornament. “Trev!” He whistles, catching the
attention of one of the dogs. “You, too, Louis, come here!” Dutifully, they follow René out of the house to a door just off the garage, with a curious plaque affixed to the door. “Yes, it’s the Man Cave,” René chuckles as he opens the door. “It’s also our wine cellar, so all sorts of fun happens in here. Mostly, though, it’s my space to relax and enjoy a few of my hobbies.”
As the door swings open, a warmly lit room is revealed. At first, the wine collection catches one’s attention, as do the framed, autographed sports jerseys and memorabilia. Wade van Niekerk and Os du Randt’s names immediately pop out, next to a shirt from Arsenal legend, Thierry Henry. “That is the most special one, there,” René points to a frame encasing two red and white jerseys, as he sits down. “The jersey at the back is my first team rugby jersey, and in front of it is my son’s first team jersey. It is a proud tradition to share with my son, both Kearsney old boys who played first team.”
But, as one’s eyes adjust to the ambience, it is the shiny, little items that look rather like coins, arranged artfully on the shelves, that start to become particularly interesting. A step closer reveals they are certainly not coins…they are golf markers: rows, rows and rows of them! “I honestly did not deliberately set out to start this huge collection,” René says. “Every time I went to a new club, I would get their golf marker as
a keepsake. The more clubs I played at, the more markers I had. There was a point when I thought…hold on, this is getting a bit out of hand,” he grins. “So, I decided to arrange them, here on the walls of this space.”
It has been almost two decades, and René is still collecting golf markers. In his collection are markers from all over the world, starting with St Francis Links, Pinnacle and our (unbiased) favourite, Simbithi, and several international markers, from Marco Simone in Rome, Italy, to Waterville Links in Ireland, to Gleneagles in Scotland. “When my friends travel, they collect markers from the courses they play and bring them back for me,” René runs his
hand over a row of markers. “So, it’s becoming a shared hobby, now, which I love.”
René’s favourite marker – to date, of course, because he still has many years of collecting ahead of him –is one from the Augusta National Golf Club, commemorating Gary Player’s prowess on the notoriously challenging 14th hole, a par-4. “I treasure this one, because of the history behind it.” When asked if there are any markers he would love to get his hands on, René says he has never played golf in Australia. “I would love to play a few courses there and bring home some markers.”
As to whether having a hobby is worthwhile, René has no doubt. “I think everyone should follow their passion, and if it turns into a hobby, then all the better!”
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1 Sagila Lane, Simbithi Eco-Estate, Ballito
217 Simbithi Office Park
Because every great game deserves a smooth ride.
Contact us for new or pre-owned golf carts, refurbishments, batteries, windscreens, mag wheel and tyres, accessories and servicing.
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Because every great game smooth ride. Contact us for new or pre-owned refurbishments, batteries, windscreens, wheel and tyres, accessories
2 Glen Anil Street, Glen +27 31 569 3482 info@procarcarts.co.za
Mandela Day is one of our favourite days at Simbithi. We spend time thoughtfully planning and co-ordinating our activities, curating an experience that honours the legacy of human rights icon Nelson Mandela, and allows those who participate to contribute to society. It is a pivotal date on our Community Social Investment (CSI) calendar, and we are excited to show you this year’s highlight reel.
WORDS JODi chetty | PHOTOS SAvAnnAh DU tOit, cReAtivSPROUt
This year, we chose to do two social activations, to enable our entire team to participate, and to provide options for our residents to volunteer. Each activation was scheduled for 67 minutes, which, according to the Mandela Day official website, is in recognition of the 67 years Madiba fought for human rights, internationally.
activation 1: Snacks on deck
The first activation took place on the Country Club deck, where our
team set up three assembly lines for the creation of 267 lunch packs. At the first station, Chef Rahul Bansee (our pastry whiz) patiently taught volunteers how to swirl buttercream onto cupcakes to make the perfect confection. We had an abundance of sprinkles for the cupcakesbecause, what is a cupcake without sprinkles - and the last group of volunteers folded boxes, and popped a cupcake in each.
The second station saw loaves upon loaves of bread being buttered and
Each activation was scheduled for 67 minutes, which, according to the Mandela Day official website, is in recognition of the 67 years Madiba fought for human rights, internationally
filled with chicken and mayonnaise, ham and cheese, egg and mayonnaise and cheese and tomato under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Louis Lesch. Volunteers were placed ‘on the pass’, expeditiously packing the sandwiches for transport.
Finally, the treats made their way to the packing station, where the sandwiches and cupcakes were placed into bags with a drink. Later that afternoon, our security team delivered
the packs to two organisations: Haven of Rest, an NGO in Tongaat that cares for children, the elderly, recovering substance abuse users and abused women, and Westbrook Retirement Village, a home for the elderly.
activation 2: School in Session
After a short break, we packed up our tools and headed for RA Padayachee School in Shakashead, just a short drive from Simbithi. Here, we planted a vegetable garden under the guidance of our environmental team. Many of our staff’s children, and our residents’ staff’s children, are taught here. The school is a no-fee institution located on Shakas Rock Main Road and caters for more than 1000 children.
Earlier in the week, a team from McWades Landscapes, our landscaping service provider, prepared the soil and created pathways for the garden. We planted spinach, cabbage and spring onion. Our team will visit the school periodically to ensure the garden is wellmaintained and to pass on knowledge to interested learners.
We will also evaluate the plants seasonally, to introduce new vegetables.
As we shared with our community, RA Padayachee was vandalised seriously earlier this year, following an alleged incident of petrol bombing at the administrative building. Our maintenance team assisted with reconstructing the gutted offices, painting, and installing new airconditioners. We also cleaned gutters, fixed the pre-primary play area, and donated soccer nets (previously at the Guineafowl Sports Field) for the learners.
Thank you to everyone who pitched in to make #SimbithiMandelaDay25 a success. As Tata once said, “it is in [y]our hands to create a better world for all who live in it”.
Scan this QR code to watch our activations!
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 strategy, by definition, is an art form. Specifically, it is a “plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim”, according to the Oxford Dictionary. For the last five years, Simbithi Eco-Estate has been steered by a strategy born from discussions, brainstorming and extensive industry research. Last year, we reviewed our strategy with a view to directing Simbithi for the next few years.
Prior to the original strategy, which was launched in June 2022, Simbithi Eco-Estate was guided by a Team Charter conceptualised by our management team a year prior. The charter comprised a set of principles our team agreed to abide by in the management and maintenance of the Estate. In November 2021, the Board of Directors, ably led by Chairman Jeff Leaver, began conceptualising our first strategy. A follow-up session was held in February 2022, and the Board conceived key strategies to take Simbithi into the next five to 10 years.
Vision: To guarantee the sustainability of Simbithi Eco-Estate. Mission: To become the pre-eminent residential eco-estate in Southern Africa.
Strategic initiatives:
1. Self-sustainability: ensure a self-reliant future
2. Management Excellence: optimise management excellence
3. Technology and Information: optimise all appropriate and available technology
4. Integration: become fully integrated with the local communities and stakeholders
5. Environment, Social and Governance (ESG): apply appropriate environmental, social, and governance practises
Values: integrity
We will behave with integrity, always becoming fully informed, and acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills to fully and meaningfully participate in all deliberations and debate, at Board, committee and management levels. We will ensure this by understanding and accepting our fiduciary duties and the duty of reasonable care and skill.
Commitment
We will strive to maintain a spirit of unity amongst the Board, management and the members, placing principles before personalities, remaining committed to the company we represent and the communities we serve. We will ensure this by always seeking out mutually beneficial solutions to all problems and challenges.
accountability
We are accountable for all the decisions we make, resolutions we pass, and the policies and procedures we implement. We remain responsible for proper implementation and enforcement of our governing documents, financial management and our rules, regulations and guidelines, while remaining appropriately flexible in our implementation practises. We will ensure this by always acting in a way that serves the best interests of the Simbithi Companies and the community at large.
respect
We will respect the views, opinions and beliefs of others, in all our communications, community events and other interactions with, and internal and external stakeholders. We will ensure this by remaining appropriately collaborative, transparent, accessible and participate in all our affairs.
excellence
We will strive for excellence, as we implement security safeguards, environmental practises, financial controls, operational, maintenance and technical procedures, social events, communications, HR practises and general management. We will ensure this through research and development, keeping abreast with international and local benchmarks and standards.
At the beginning of this year, Simbithi underwent a strategic review. Our senior management teams from the HOA and Club met with a facilitator to evaluate the strategy and suggest potential amendments. This was followed by a session with the Board of Directors. A collaborative effort has seen us keep our vision, mission and underpinning values constant. What we have refreshed, though, are our strategic initiatives. Essentially, the initiatives have been reworded to include verbs: words that guide our actions as a board and management team.
here is our revised set of strategic initiatives:
1. Adhere to ESG Principles
2. Promote Sustainability
3. Cultivate Excellence
4. Harness Technology
5. Optimise Stakeholder Relationships
Simbithi, the strategy is a guideline for the well-being and success of our Estate. During this, our milestone 20th year of existence, We encourage you to partner with us to absorb these values into your daily life at Simbithi, especially as we progress.
