Crest 90

SEPT-OCT 2019 ISSUE 90

Local

TALENT

Sculptor Carl Roberts

Distributed to the communities of Everton, Gillitts, Hillcrest, Kloof, St Helier & Winston Park

718863

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*ed's letter

S

A New CHAPTER

pring is nature’s way of saying wake up. As it slowly but surely breathes new life into our surroundings, it also breathes new life into us. Blessings of rain, vibrant colours and the sound of creatures waking up from their winter sleep bring with it renewed energy on all levels, and inspire a fresh approach to whatever lies around the corner.

A new season opens a new

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katrine@ famouspublishing.co.za www.thecrestonline.co.za W Crest Magazine

chapter and motivates us to challenge ourselves to get out of that winter comfort zone, letting go of things that have been holding us back, and pouring that renewed energy into something valuable – something that can make us grow. It is all about setting personal goals, and more importantly; seeing them through.

Our community is yet again showing us that this is possible – our spring issue features local talent and uplifting projects; passionate people who are all in some way paying it forward through giving, spreading positivity, sharing knowledge and lending a helping hand.

We also have trendy outfits for an upcoming balmy summer, pieces that ooze femininity and are casual yet stylish, as well as an exciting new property development in Waterfall – perfect for firsttime home owners and keen investors. And if you have been thinking of downscaling and living simpler – take a look at the charming "tiny home" in our decor feature.

The Famous Publishing team is sad to see Debbie Reynolds leave our sunny shores. We know that you, our readers, will miss the fabulous stories she has brought to a number of Crest issues for many years. Thanks, Debbie, for your constant loyalty and professionalism – and for uncovering and sharing so many Upper Highway gems

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The Crest GOES DIGITAL Getting your very own copy of The Crest has never been easier. If you or anyone you know – locally or overseas – would like to receive a free digital copy of The Crest magazine, please email the details (first name, surname, email address and residing area) to thecrest@ famouspublishing.co.za

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with us! We wish you all the best on your new adventure in Portugal.

With the change of the season, I would like to encourage you to get in touch if you have something to share.

I am forever searching for enriching stories, and I love constructive feedback. Is there anything you are missing in The Crest? Drop me a line!

Happy reading!

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in this issue*

GROUP EDITOR Doody Adams EDITOR Katrine Anker-Nilssen PRODUCTION EDITOR Lorna King GRAPHIC DESIGN Kyle Griffin SALES CONSULTANTS Anneline Domnick 066 254 0621 Gaylene Diedericks 081 707 6313 DISTRIBUTION Mphumzeni Thusi Enquiries: sumayia.khan@ famouspublishing.co.za ACCOUNTS Sumayia Khan CONTRIBUTORS Greg Ardé, Candice Botha, Tony Carnie, Cathy Clark, Jeremy Nell, Debbie Reynolds, Melanie Rosettenstein, Stephen Smith Copyright: All material in this issue is subject to copyright and belongs to Famous Publishing unless otherwise indicated.

No part of the material may be quoted, photocopied, reproduced or stored by an electronic system without prior written permission from Famous Publishing.

Disclaimer: While every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication, neither the authors nor the publisher will bear any responsibility for the consequences of any actions based on information contained herein. Neither do they endorse any products/services advertised herein.

Material which appears under ‘Advertorial’ is paid for. *To the people of Everton, Gillitts, Hillcrest, Kloof, St Helier and Winston Park, the office parks, the residential estates and, of course, all our advertisers, thank you for your continued support.

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48 38 THE LAKESMIT WAY

COMMUNITY THE ACCIDENTAL ARTIST

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Local sculptor Carl Roberts

SWIMMING SUCCESS

16 17

BONGANI MTOLO

18 20

The truth behind the man

READY FOR THE FUTURE

22

Successful law firm Cox Yeats

TEA TREE OIL

24

The hidden secrets behind this gem

FAMILY FAVOURITE

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Chicken recipe from Riversmead

WASTE NOT

WE ALSO PUBLISH ...

The ABC logo is a valued seal of trust, providing measurement, compliance and auditing services which protects the way advertising is traded. The Crest is ABC audited and certified.

SUMMER WITH STYLE

INTRODUCING THE WOODS

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REGULARS ED’S LETTER 1 TAKE NOTE 4 TRENDING 40 SOCIALS 62 LAST WORD 64

ADVERTORIALS VEGA SCHOOL BRAND CANDY ACTION COACH LANDROVER

38 57

Focus on iThemba's second pre-school upgrade

ENEMIES OF WEALTH

48

WINTER CHILLS & FOREST THRILLS 54

Affordable first-time homes

ABUNDANCE OF JOY

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The ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest

Four Westville Boys' High School families celebrate

PSG Wealth consider three enemies to growing wealth

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Innovative ways to get rid of waste

HERITAGE DAY CELEBRATIONS

TINY HOME

Casual summer looks to look forward to

Sister Amanda's candles Published by Famous Publishing, 52 Mahogany Road, Mahogany Ridge, Westmead, Durban, 3610.

031 714 4700 www.famouspublishing.co.za Printed by Novus Print KwaZulu-Natal Managed distribution by Vibrant Direct

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A home for the future

Curro Hillcrest gets new executive head

NEVER A DULL MOMENT

YOUR DREAM CAR The luxurious BMW X5

A physio practice that goes the extra mile

CONTINUING THE LEGACY

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The professionals in health

LIFESTYLE 14

Upper Highway swimming partners

THAT PERSONAL TOUCH

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ON THE COVER: Carl Roberts, photographed by Gaylene Diedericks

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Ridge & Crest Advert_Hendricks_FA.indd 1

2019/07/19 4:42 PM

take note*

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP KLOOF ROTARY ANNS Open Gardens Kloof Rotary Anns welcome you to meander through six exotic and indigenous gardens on October 5 and 6. Ludwig’s Roses is on the route this year,

and the Highbury Centenary Hall is the venue for tea and crafts – where stall holders will bring a wonderful variety of their talents.

Wors rolls will be available at

Garden 3. Tickets cost R60 and allow entrance to all six gardens plus refreshments; children under 12 are free.

Tickets are available at the entrance to each garden, and also before the event from Kloof Village Mall Super Spar and Watercrest Super Spar.

FOR MORE INFO: Contact Wendy Scorgie 083 661 7337 or visit www.kloofrotary.co.za

JOHNNY CLEGG Remembered Moved by the tragic news that South African music legend Johnny Clegg had succumbed to pancreatic cancer, the Kearsney College Choir paid tribute to him at a sold-out supper theatre concert at the

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school, as well as in studio at East Coast Radio. The boys entertained with a wonderful and uplifting performance of his songs, which have had a huge impact and become firm favourites with generations of Kearsney boys.

Their renditions of Asimbonanga and The

Crossing were live-streamed by East Coast Radio and received a phenomenal response from across the world – with over 1,4-million views and an outpouring of love for one of South Africa’s most popular musicians, as well as praise for Kearsney’s young singers.

With much of the music it

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performs being of a similar genre, the choir has built a large international following through its signature blend of indigenous, pop and classical music, and has won 15 gold and seven silver medals at the World Choir Games – the equivalent of the Choir Olympics – since 2000.

SUNFLOWER FUND Brings Hope The Sunflower Fund initiated its annual Sunflower Day campaign 16 years ago to get individuals involved in the fight against blood diseases. The campaign, which is anchored by the sale of the Tube of Hope (TOPE), a multi-purpose accessory, is aimed at raising funds for the recruitment of blood stem cell donors to give the hope of cure to patients diagnosed with life-threatening blood diseases like leukaemia who are in need of a life-saving stem cell transplant.

Sunflower Day will be commemorated on September 20; TOPES are on sale at Pick n Pay and online at Zando. The design is inspired by the coming together of various African cultures, bringing hope of finding their life-saving match. Individuals between 18 and 45 years, with a consistent weight of more than 50kgs and a BMI of less than 40, can register as donors.

FOR MORE INFO: 0800 12 10 82; www.sunflowerfund.org

{ GET INVOLVED } Wheelchairs OF HOPE

editor's choice

The simple provision of a wheelchair is something completely out of reach for most.

Identifying the need to help, WIZO South Africa, a women’s voluntary organisation dedicated to the upliftment of the marginalised, joined forces with an Israeli NGO called Wheelchairs of Hope – dedicated to providing children in developing countries with lightweight, reliable and child friendly wheelchairs. These wheelchairs have become more than instruments of mobility – they have become chariots of hope, helping children win battles and gain access not just to education but to friends and peers as well.

In order to reach children in deep rural areas, WIZO partnered with The Valley Trust to identify those in the Valley of 1 000 Hills most urgently needing the freedom of independent mobility.

The collaboration resulted in a big day for 21young children – receiving their own brightly coloured wheelchairs in a ceremony at The Valley Trust last month.

FOR MORE INFO: Contact WIZO Durban on 031 335 4450; wizodbn@djc.co.za if you want to help

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take note*

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP Where Everyone IS WELCOME At Kloof Country Club there is something for everyone. For the sporty, there’s a beautiful 18-hole golf course, squash and tennis memberships, a running club and swimming pool facilities.

The Veranda restaurant is open to the public seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sundays

are Fundays, where families can enjoy a roast for only R79pp. There’s also a gin bar and occasional live music, as well as a bouncy castle – complementing the fun kiddies menu. A lovely childminder is also on duty, allowing you to sit back and relax.

KCC also hosts weddings, conferences and other

functions – there’s an inhouse functions co-ordinator to assist you through the process of planning a successful event, and chefs to prepare excellent meals to suit an array of dietary requirements and pockets. For weddings, there are various outdoor ceremony options for couples and two reception venues to choose from – both with their own unique character.

FOR MORE INFO: Visit @kloofcc on Facebook for weekly meal and Sunday Funday Lunch specials. To book call 031 764 0555

HOOK No Further Andréa Archer started crocheting in 2016 to contribute to the 67 SleepyHead Babies for Madiba Day outreach.

“Thanks to my mom and YouTube I learnt very quickly.

It was immediate – I was hooked on crochet and have been making gifts ever since,” says Andi. “This year I have been blessed to be at home more with my son instead of working full time, and friends and family approached me for orders. It didn’t take me long before deciding to start a small business to see how it could grow.”

Hook No Further was born, and Andi welcomes customised orders – bringing her mom in to help when there’s an influx. “I would love to get to a stage where I can employ and empower others through my business,” she says, adding that she mostly makes baby and toddler items. “I love being challenged and it’s always exciting creating items and watching a masterpiece come alive.”

TO ORDER: W @hooknofurther or email hook.no.further@gmail.com

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EC

REST MA EC

ZINE’S B GA

RET • TH

Simply SPROGS Babynests

Your Real FOOD CONNECTION

On a beautiful little farm in Assagay called Sunnyhill, the Cox family has realised their dream of reconnecting our community with local farmers and artisans through access to real, ethically farmed homegrown food.

Mel, Ant and their children Leila and Benjamin feel blessed to be on this new journey together. “The kids are so conscientious and proud of what we do. They are always ready to visit farms, pack boxes, plant seeds and whatever else needs to be done,” says Mel – adding that they have just started preparing their ground and are very excited to begin planting a field of

organic vegetables this spring.

“We source and will soon be growing the freshest, best quality fruit and veg, eggs, milk, meat and artisanal and health products, and bringing it conveniently right to your door – making it easy and affordable for you to stock your home with healthy local foods and products.”

Your Real Food Connection aims to grow an awareness of true healthy eating and community support, appreciating the process of how our food gets to our plate and the people who are doing it in an ethical and loving way.

TO ORDER: www.realfood.co.za (Upper Highway only)

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When Marita Kelly fell pregnant with her second child and anticipated a fair amount of co-sleeping, she decided to make a babynest. Soon friends started asking her for babynests as gifts, then as word got out strangers wanted to place orders.

A few hundred babynests later, Marita hopes Simply Sprogs will continue to thrive.

Every babynest she creates is unique and custom-made, with beautiful 100% cotton hypoallergenic and breathable fabrics sourced locally and overseas. They come in two sizes, newborn to eight months and six months to two years, and have worked wonders for sleepless babies worldwide. Specifically made to mimic the womb, the babynest provides a snug feeling and makes co-sleeping safer and more comfortable.

Being a social worker, babies are precious to Marita. Which is why she donated six of her babynests to the Upper Highway Baby Home. “All babies need comfort and to feel safe. What the UHBH is doing for babies in need of love is amazing.

A true inspiration to us all, and a good reminder that we all can try, every day, to be a better version of ourselves and to help where and how we can.”

TO ORDER: Order the perfect babyshower gift by emailing simplysprogs@gmail.com; WSimply Sprogs

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T KEPT S ES

take note*

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP Miss MESSY September 28, 6am-12 noon, Giba Gorge Mountain Bike Park: A ladies only 4km run. Bring yourself or your squad and immerse yourself in this unique, out of this world course! Expect fun from start to finish, with lots of mud, colour, inflatable obstacles and foam.

FOR MORE INFO: 082 892 7837

This Is AFRICA STORE Created by husband and wife team, Lauren and Johno Geldenhuys, This Is Africa Store is all about creating simple, minimalistic quality products that reflect the continent they love so much. The online store features a range of canvas duffel bags, cooler bags, and adult and children’s caps, with the duffel bags and cooler bags being made in KZN from 100% cotton washed canvas.

FOR MORE INFO: 082 293 0586; www.thisisafricastore.co.za

The Rox BEACH CLASSIC September 29, 8am: Calling all couch potatoes, elite runners, fat bike riders and everyone in between! It’s your turn to take part in the ROX Beach Classic running/ cycling/walking event to help raise funds to help budding junior lifesavers and nippers attend the 2020 South African Lifesaving Championships.

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The ROX Beach Classic – a revival of the uMhlanga Rocks Surf Lifesaving Club (ROX) Beach Run – has four events.

Choose between 14km or 8km run routes; a 14km fat bike beach trail; and a 4km family fun run/walk. Race routes will be along the beach and will be marshalled with water points at Peace Cottage and uMdloti Tidal Pool.

The 14km run/fat bike route goes from

ROX Clubhouse to uMdloti Tidal Pool and back, while the 8km route goes from ROX to Peace Cottage and back. The 4km route takes you to uMhlanga River mouth and back to ROX. Entry fees are R120 for the 14km routes, R100 for the 8km and R70 for the 4km.

Food, drinks and bar facilities will be on sale at the ROX clubhouse.

FOR MORE INFO: info@roxlifesaving.co.za

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Our holistic approach to kitchens is why 25 years later, we are still the country’s leading custom kitchen manufacturer.

CAPE TOWN

MIDRAND

SANDTON

tel: 0860 788 346

UMHLANGA

www.kitchenstudio.com

DURBAN

HILLCREST

GHANA

email: info@kitchenstudio.com

TANZANIA

cover story*

Picture: Gaylene Diedericks

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The accidental

ARTIST

CARL ROBERTS IS A LOCAL SCULPTOR WHO HAS ACHIEVED INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM Sitting in his workshop, which seems chaotic to the outsider but must have its own mysterious organisation to it, Carl tells me his story, how he landed up as an accidental artist. “I’ve been a fireman, managed a dairy farm, worked as a heavy-duty truck driver, and throughout all of these jobs I was doing some sort of art,

story and pictures stephen smith

A

s we walk around his home and garden, it’s easy to see why internationally acclaimed artist Carl Roberts must be inspired by nature, for he is surrounded by it. Soaring trees surround the home, and when Carl shows me the materials he works with, they’re almost all a natural resource – wood, bone and stone, although he does also work with metal.

And from these seemingly simple materials Carl is able to create things of incredible beauty, to release the beauty hidden within objects, produce sculptures that tell a tale and evoke emotions in those who look upon them.

There’s a sculpture in Carl’s lounge of a raven-haired beauty that reminds me of my wife, Emily, and I would buy it in an instant if I could afford to. I say so, and Carl smiles. “When you finish a piece and you love it, you have to agree then and there that you’ll never sell it and then stick to that decision. Otherwise you’re left with none of your own work. My wife and I loved that piece from the moment I finished it, and we’ve been offered a lot of money for it now. We’ll never sell it.”

When you finish a piece and you love it, you have to agree then and there that you’ll never sell it and then stick to that decision

ABOVE: The raven-haired beauty that is just not for sale.

LEFT: Sculptor Carl Roberts at work in his local studio, where he produces internationally collected works.

which I’d started doing at junior school. Then I applied to be a cadet journalist but was rejected because I’d failed matric. By then I’d saved quite a lot of money from driving trucks, enough to study, and I applied to study journalism at Rhodes University. They rejected me at first but I managed to convince them to give me a chance. Journalism didn’t last though, and within three months I had changed to Fine Art.” Carl tells of how his art lecturer would sometimes cancel lectures and instead pack

»

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cover story*

These days Carl’s work is collected internationally and he is represented by 10 galleries across the globe. He has relationships with collectors from as far afield as Japan and Poland who regularly buy his work RIGHT: Carl’s two dogs are never far away when he works; here’s Bingo, and Tugg is on the cover.

FAR RIGHT: Carl makes use of a wide variety of materials to construct his beautiful, and sometimes peculiar, creations.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Mt Fuji’s Shadow.

the students into a kombi for an excursion to the local nature reserve. There they would go for walks, swim in the river and, most importantly, look for materials to sculpt. It was there that Carl first found a piece of animal bone and decided to work with it.

Now it’s his favourite medium.

Carl is a collector, of materials and tools. Everywhere you look on his property is something in which Carl sees potential. Whale or giraffe bone, a piece of wood that he dragged from a bog, a seal’s scapula, stones from the Eastern Cape, the skull of what must have been a scary animal in real life … These are looked at, felt and considered, sometimes played with until Carl is able to decide what they will become.

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We sit in his workshop and I watch him work, his faithful dog by his side, and I’m jealous, as I often am when I see someone who has undeniably found their calling in this world. He’s working on a little metal figurine but before long he puts it down and starts sanding a piece of wood. I feel guilty, thinking that perhaps I’m preventing him from settling into his routine, but Carl explains unprompted, “I’m always working on a few things at a time. My ADHD helps me with that – as soon as I get bored of working on this I move on to that. I’m prolific, I think, by artists’ standards.”

These days Carl’s work is collected internationally and he is represented by 10 galleries across the globe. He has relationships with collectors from as far afield as Japan and Poland who regularly buy his work, and if it were within my means he would have another one here in Hillcrest.

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FOR MORE INFO www.carlroberts.co.za

profile*

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t’s a balmy Hillcrest winter’s day and Joanne Gibson-Taylor has just waved goodbye to the youngsters in her swimming class. Angela van Heerden is in a pool in Italy training a group of competitive swimmers. The “besties” have turned their passion for swimming into an uplifting career which encompasses community, family and friendship.

“We became best friends at Hillcrest PrePrimary, both became swimmers and then rivals when we swam for different clubs as Angela went to Hillcrest High and I went to St Mary’s,” says Joanne.

After leaving school Joanne studied marketing and advertising at UKZN and did honours at Vega School, while Angela studied part time through Unisa while continuing to swim competitively.

Angela’s previous coach Tracy Loxley had started Aquazone Swim Club, but after she had children, she found it difficult to keep running the club. “She literally gave the club to Angela and told her to make of it what she could,” says Joanne.

Joanne, meanwhile, dived into her career working for an advertising agency. “But Angela kept nagging me to join her, so when there was restructuring at my company, I jumped at the opportunity to work mornings

Swimming

SUCCESS

FRIENDS, RIVALS AND PARTNERS, JOANNE GIBSONTAYLOR AND ANGELA VAN HEERDEN RUN ONE OF THE BIGGEST SWIMMING CLUBS IN THE UPPER HIGHWAY AREA, WRITES DEBBIE REYNOLDS only so I could coach the stroke correction programme for Angela in the afternoons.”

With the club growing rapidly, Joanne joined full time in 2006. “We exploded in February 2016 when we moved to Curro Hillcrest High and built an indoor learn-toswim pool,” she says.

They now pride themselves on being a one-stop-swim-shop, offering everything from learn-to-swim classes for infants and adults, competitive swimmer training, stroke correction and adult fitness.

Said Angela: “Our holistic programme develops swimmers from infants to competitive level, with many of our swimmers receiving medals at junior and senior national level. We have had SA representatives on

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ABOVE: The 50m Olympic-size heated pool at Curro Hillcrest High, Aquazone’s base.

LEFT: Partners and friends Joanne Gibson-Taylor (left) and Angela van Heerden.

We’re able to adjust our schedules around our families which is great,” says Joanne. “I’m sure things will change when Angela has her baby, but we’ll make it work, we always do”

junior teams and a number of swimmers on the SA junior squad.”

One of their success stories is Aaron Putz, who won seven medals at the 2017 INAS (International Federation for Athletes with Intellectual Impairments) and recently competed at the Glasgow edition of the world IPC series.

“I think what sets us apart is that we really live by our motto, One Team One Family,” says Joanne. “We’ve grown to over 500 members, but we work hard to keep the family feel hosting club nights and special events to build our relationships.”

Also key to their success is exposing their swimmers and coaches to as many learning opportunities as possible, as well as working on stroke technique and correction. “I have been to the USA and Australia to work with coaches there and attend their conferences and have completed SSA level 2, ASCA (USA) level 3 and ASCTS (Australia) bronze license accreditations,” says Angela.

They currently work from Curro Hillcrest High, where their temporary office is based, Curro Hillcrest Christian Academy, and Kloof Senior Primary.

“We offer four heated pools, nine coaches (besides ourselves), with Belinda Dallaway running the office, freeing us up from the administration which we’re not so hot at,” laughs Joanne.

“It’s so amazing to work with your best friend. My strengths are Angela’s weaknesses and vice versa. She’s more involved with the business and money side of things, while I’m more into the people and HR issues.”

Joanne is married to Bevan and has two children, Ben, nine, and Emma, six, who she says are both “good little swimmers”. Angela is married to Ockie and is expecting her first baby in October.

“We’re able to adjust our schedules around our families which is great,” says Joanne. “I’m sure things will change when Angela has her baby, but we’ll make it work, we always do.”

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FOR MORE INFO www.aquazonesa.co.za

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Your Unforgettable Wedding Embark on your new journey by letting your vision take flight in the serene ambiance of our lush lawns and beautiful golf course.

At Kloof Country Club, we have an array of designated areas for you to utilise and each location has its own individual character which will create a truly exquisite setting suited to the style and personality of our unique bridal couples.

We offer a choice of various stunning outdoor ceremony venues and two well-appointed reception venues that will ensure your wedding day will be as unique as you are.

You have the choice of our fully inclusive wedding package or we can assist you with a personalised package to suit your particular needs.

Our in-house Wedding Co-ordinator is at your service and she will ensure your day is spectacular in every way and because we know that your wedding will be one of the most important occasions in your lifetime, Kloof Country Club’s team of professional staff are dedicated to ensuring that your day is exceptional in every way, not only for you but your guests as well.

Contact us today and let’s start planning your

HAPPILY EVER AFTER www.kloofcc.co.za | Functions@kloofcc.co.za 26 Victory Road, Kloof | 031 764 0555

profile*

That personal

TOUCH

RILEY PHYSIOTHERAPISTS IS ON TOP WHEN IT COMES TO GOING THAT EXTRA MILE FOR PATIENTS, WRITES KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN

J

uli-Ann Riley always knew she wanted to help people. With a strong interest in medicine she searched for something handson within the field, and found her calling within physiotherapy.

She started practising in 2000, and is particularly interested in women’s health and orthopaedic manual therapy – which includes spinal problems, pinched nerves, headaches, jaw pain, muscle and joint problems, sports injuries etc.

Three years ago the business was split into Juli-Ann Riley Physiotherapists at Femina Health in Kloof, and Riley Physiotherapists Inc. The latter is now back at the Gillitts Medical Centre.

When the business split, Candice Rommers came onboard as Juli-Ann’s right-hand woman at Riley Physiotherapists. “Everyone loves her, she has the patience of a saint,” says Juli-Ann. Candice does a lot on the geriatric side of things, with home visits and time spent at retirement homes Rob Roy and Le Domaine. “I love working with older people, they are full of stories,”

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smiles Candice, who gets a great sense of fulfilment helping people in pain. Candice also has a strong focus on rehabilitation – whether it be after injury or surgery.

“It is so rewarding to relieve suffering,” says Juli-Ann, who also treated horses for 15 years and is involved in rescuing and fostering dogs. “I am in trouble with my husband, as I have ended up keeping five of the dogs,” she laughs.

Juli-Ann really enjoys challenging cases that are hard to diagnose. “We make sure we spend sufficient time with our patients to really get the full story and understand what’s behind the pain – addressing underlying problems. We bridge the gap between doctor and patient.”

“Providing a holistic approach when it comes to getting patients pain free, we aim at preventing it from happening again,” adds Candice.

Both ladies are very excited about where they are right now. “We work

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so well together and between us cover anything and everything a patient needs,” smiles Juli-Ann. When not at work, Juli-Ann can be found on the beach or paddling at Shongweni Dam – she has two Dusis, a double and a single, under her belt already. Candice loves her home, where she gets creative baking and sewing. She also loves yoga and spending time with her animals.

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Riley Physiotherapists holds Physio Pilates classes, modified for people with problems, on Mondays and Thursdays. Candice can also do one-on-one Pilates sessions.

RILEY PHYSIOTHERAPISTS INC. The Gillitts Medical Centre, 15 Old Main Road, Gillitts; 031 764 2750; info@rileyphysios.co.za JULI-ANN RILEY PHYSIOTHERAPISTS Femina Health, 75 Old Main Road, Kloof; 031 767 3989; info@jarphysios.co.za

*education

Continuing the

LEGACY

P

CURRO HILLCREST WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE HEAD, WRITES KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN

aul Guthrie is a strong supporter of the principle of “Servant Leadership” and believes in a holistic education producing well-rounded confident pupils who will take their place in the global village – understanding their responsibility to community and family, while at the same time being guided by their

Christian values.

An analytical thinker and huge fan of problem solving, Paul always loved maths at school. “Maths doesn’t define you, but it certainly opens doors,” he says with a smile.

After studying maths and chemistry at Wits in the mid-80s, Paul spent 19 years at Hilton College in various executive management roles.

In 2013 he moved on to

Grahamstown’s Kingswood College, and loved his six years there as Headmaster.

Excited to start his new chapter at Curro Hillcrest, Paul wants to continue the legacy the school has in the community.

He feels the importance of his role as Executive Head lies in supporting staff carrying out their responsibilities on all levels, as well as challenging them. “Growing and developing teachers for the journey lying ahead of them in turn affects the pupils. Children need to be challenged to maximise their own potential,” he says, adding that he gets his inspiration from others doing well – especially staff and pupils.

Born close to the golfing town of St Andrews, Paul’s family spent a lot of time in both Scotland and South Africa throughout the years – so he naturally loves a good game of golf. He also enjoys reading and running, and is actively involved in cricket – serving on the Cricket South Africa (CSA) Executive Schools’ Committee and as the National Convenor and Tournament Director of CSA U17 Boys.

LEFT: Melville Temlett (left) hands over to Paul Guthrie.

I believe our mission and purpose is to walk alongside our pupils as they journey to adulthood, and to support them as they emerge as ‘great young women and men’, ready to serve, lead, contribute and make a difference in our world and in the lives of others.”

– Paul Guthrie Curro Hillcrest’s previous Executive Head, Melville Temlett, continues in an executive coaching position.

“We are all looking forward to our new seasons and working together,” says Melville. “Paul is an experienced school leader and well placed to take Curro Hillcrest into the next phase of its history.”

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THE STATE-OF-THE-ART EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT CENTRE offers an innovative, forward-thinking design and use of space that will establish a solid foundation for 21st century learning-through-play – a principle encapsulating Curro Hillcrest Christian Academy’s chosen learning practice for all-round early childhood development.

Boasting a brand new administration block and larger classrooms – each fitted with double doors for children aged 2-6 years old, so they can walk outside on to their own piece of lawn – the development also features modern roofing and an indoor cricket centre, while the front entrance takes on a fresh, new look to welcome you home!

COMING SOON!

CURRO CASTLE WE ARE EXCITED TO BRING YOU A SNEAK PREVIEW OF THE NEW CURRO CASTLE DEVELOPMENT.

TO BOOK A VISIT, CONTACT SHANA JAMES ON 031 765 2752

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Never a dull

MOMENT

WHAT STARTED AS A HOBBY HAS TURNED INTO A FULLYFLEDGED MISSION FOR MARIANNHILL CONVENT’S SISTER AMANDA, WHOSE CANDLES GRACE ALTERS AND HOMES AROUND THE COUNTRY, WRITES DEBBIE REYNOLDS

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orn in Austria’s Tyrol region before training as a nurse in Germany, 25-year-old Sister Amanda came to South Africa to work at a mission hospital in the Eastern Cape. “I started out as young nurse at the Sacred Heart Hospital in Paderborn in western Germany, and even then I was fascinated by chemistry and loved working in the laboratory,” she remembers. “When I came to South Africa and joined the Mary Theresa Hospital in Mount Frere, I was quite shocked to find it didn’t have its own

laboratory and all our samples had to be sent to East London.”

Later, when the hospital built a TB unit, Sister Amanda was delighted when the doctors insisted the samples were dealt with on site. “I volunteered to help set up the little rustic laboratory and with the doctors’ encouragement I decided to get my qualifications,” she says. “I first had to finish my matric by correspondence course, do some training in Cape Town and then I moved to Addington Hospital in

I love making candles – for me they are a lovely symbol of life, giving warmth, light and beauty. I’ll keep making them until I can’t anymore Durban where, after three tough years, I got my diploma in clinical pathology.”

She then moved to St Mary’s Hospital in Mariannhill where she was immediately put in charge of its laboratory. “I worked there for an incredible 27 years until I had to retire in 2009,” she says. “I think having a nursing background really helped my understanding of haematology – I still miss it so much.”

She was lucky then to have another interest to keep her occupied. “The candle

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making started back when I was still at Mount Frere,” she explains. “At that time the Mariannhill Monastery supplied Easter candles to all the Catholic churches in the country.

“The one year we got a lousy batch and the sister in charge, Sister Adelfrida, declared she was going to make her own.

Then with a smile and a twinkle in her eye she said she would also show me how to do it.” The trick, says Sister Amanda, was that they had stored plenty of old candles which could be recycled.

To this day, she mainly uses recycled wax to make her candles, explaining that it is as simple as putting the wax in a big pot, adding water and boiling it slowly. “Then you allow it to cool overnight, so all the wax is on top and the dirt goes to the bottom.

You cut it like a cake, and you have your wax, which is much cheaper than paying

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Delivery Corporate Catering Private Functions The Colony Centre, 3 Inanda Rd, Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal 031 941 1194 ABOVE: Sister Amanda showing off some of the candles she makes, which she says are a lovely symbol of life.

LEFT: The Sacred Heart Congregation’s Sister Edna learning the art of candle-making.

R805 per 25kg for new wax.”

Keen to practice this new craft, Sister Amanda began making candles in the lab “outside working times” until she was given her own little room from which to work. When she moved to Mariannhill, she continued her candle-making hobby “on the side”.

“The brothers at the monastery were known across the country for their candles, but when they died the skills went with them,” she says. “My hope is that I can teach this skill to as many people as possible so in time they can pass it on as well.”

She insists she doesn’t make candles

“officially”, but rather puts her hobby to good use.

“I am blessed to be able to do something I love which keeps me very busy,” says Sister Amanda, proudly showing me the selection of candles she offers.

Working all on her own from a work room at the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood Convent in Mariannhill, she produces candles for churches of all denominations across the country, and even as far afield as Mozambique, as well as for the public.

“I do everything from huge Easter candles to candles for special celebrations, like christenings or golden anniversaries and I use as much recycled materials as possible,” she says.

“I love making candles – for me they are a lovely symbol of life, giving warmth, light and beauty. I’ll keep making them until I can’t anymore.”

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here’s nothing the young Bongani Mtolo wanted to be more than a radio presenter. “Growing up in the rural area of Richmond in KZN I was inspired by the popular Ukhozi FM DJ Bodloza, who came from the same area,” says Bongani. “He was even taught by my father who was a school principal. From those early days it was all I wanted to do.”

But, after graduating from

Zane Derbyshire called to say I was not what they were looking for. I asked if he would listen to one more demo tape and if that didn’t work, I promised I would never bother him again.”

Bongani’s persistence paid off and he was given the weekend midnight “training” slot, before being bumped up to the 4am to 6am weekday slot.

“I was still living and working in PMB, so that meant getting up at 2am to get to ECR in time for show preparation, doing the show and then getting home to

The truth behind

BONGANI MTOLO

DEEJAY, RADIO PRESENTER, COMPANY OWNER AND FAMILY MAN BONGANI MTOLO SPOKE TO DEBBIE REYNOLDS ABOUT SACRIFICE, SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT Maritzburg College, life took him on quite a different course. “I ended up as a car salesman in PMB and it was only later when I was already married with a kid that I started pursuing the radio dream,” says Bongani. “With my diverse background I had my sights set on East Coast Radio (ECR) and started sending in demo tapes.

“I got no response at all until one day programme manager

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take the kids to school before starting my day job.”

His next big step was to the 6pm to 9pm weekday slot which meant he had to fully commit by giving up his wellpaying day job and moving to Pinetown.

“Although my wife Zama thought I was crazy, she was very supportive and gave me three years to get it right,” says Bongani. “Quitting my job was

It’s about being as honest as you can without being offensive. I would rather hear the truth than be comforted with lies

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the hardest thing I’ve ever done and because my radio salary barely covered petrol, I hired my car to a friend and used public transport.

“One of the craziest things was sitting squashed in a taxi seeing someone reading an article about me in the newspaper – that’s when I made up my mind that I was going to make this work.”

Even though his show

grew to attracting the second largest listenership on the station, it took some time – and a lot of tears – before he was offered his dream job as co-presenter of the 3pm to 6pm “drive time” show around two years ago.

Since then he’s won backto-back national Liberty Radio Awards for Best Afternoon Drive Presenter. “I still can’t believe it,” he laughs.

“Everything my family and I sacrificed led to that moment being recognised by my peers as the best in our industry.”

He says he thinks the secret to his success is letting the public be part of the show. “I want my listeners to feel they

are having a conversation with their best friend, that person you sometimes love and sometimes hate.

“It’s about being as honest as you can without being offensive. I would rather hear the truth than be comforted with lies. We are all so politically correct that we aren’t bringing problems into the open where we can talk about them and hopefully fix them.”

While radio is a huge part of his life, Bongani is also an accomplished DJ, having recently released his own house song, Spread Love; the owner of a marketing agency and, with Zama, an events and catering company.

www.brettenwood.co.za/palm-swift

With a schedule that usually starts with gym at 5am in the morning and ends late at night, he spends as much of his down time as he can with his two boys, Lwazi, 11, and Khwezi, six.

“Family is very important to me, as is touching as many people as I can along the way,” says Bongani. “I hope that I can inspire people to chase their dreams.”

“It’s the normal people who inspire me … like the security guard I met a while back who heard my story and told me how much he wanted to study law. The last I heard he had finished his first year of law school.”

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@brettenwoodcoastalestate

NEW DEVELOPMENT

Can you imagine yourself living in one of the country’s most exclusive estates? For a limited time only, Brettenwood Coastal Estate is offering 2 and 3 bedroom homes from R2,6 million through the new Palm Swift development.

The modern homes are pet-friendly, have an exclusive-use garden and are set against a backdrop of indigenous coastal foliage.

As one of the last remaining sectional title developments on the established luxury coastal Estate, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Register your interest for exclusive access to the Palm Swift development:

PALM SWIFT HOMES | FROM R2.6 MILLION

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LAND FROM THE DEVELOPER FROM R1500 000 info@homeandcountry.co.za www.brettenwood.co.za

Mark Harris Sales Advisor T 082 789 6340 E mark@homeandcountry.co.za

business profile*

T

he largest law firm based only in KwaZulu-Natal, comprising one of the largest commercial teams of any legal firm in the province, remain faithful to their two core principles: integrity and individual care for clients. Managing Partner Michael Jackson says these principles have continued to shape the firm throughout the years – and coupled with a young and energetic team of attorneys, resulted in significant growth and the creation of an exciting story.

Cox Yeats’ signature strategy is to place professionals into specialised teams concentrating on particular fields, who then connect directly with their clients. The teams also draw on other teams’ expertise, which creates attention to detail and vibrant “cross-pollination” that makes the firm a true life partner for clients.

Says Jackson, “I think the reason why we are successful is that we have some incredible people. We have nearly 50 professionals collectively working together to solve a problem. We achieve amazing things.”

More than five decades of legal excellence have shaped who Cox Yeats is as a firm, and as it looks to the future it’s only fitting that the next phase of the firm’s journey takes place in iconic new custom-built offices – located in Ncondo Chambers, a defining new landmark on the

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Ready for the

FUTURE

HAVING OFFERED SPECIALISED LEGAL SERVICES FOR 55 YEARS, BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM COX YEATS – IN FABULOUS NEW CUSTOM-BUILT PREMISES – CONTINUES TO GROW IN EXPERTISE uMhlanga Ridge skyline. Partner Richard Hoal describes the architectural theme of the whole building, interior and exterior, as “mid-century modern” – a timeless blend of modern and tradition with internal skylights and wrap-around library,

befitting the ethos of the firm and its lawyers.

The last few years have brought much change to the legal and business profession while technology has made it necessary for lawyers to adapt in the way

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they practice. To remain relevant as a legal firm, Cox Yeats strive to be adaptable to change and continuously grow in expertise – focusing on ongoing training and development programmes, search and recruitment of top talent in the country, a mentorship programme and a performance culture in which each individual’s performance is measured against agreed benchmarks. Cox Yeats’ attorneys are made partners sooner than most law firms in order to give recognition to their roles and responsibilities within the firm.

Contributing to the industry, Cox Yeats strive to understand their clients’ operations and the detail of the legal landscape in which they navigate, viewing client relationships as longterm commitments.

With the goal of providing practical, efficient and cost effective solutions to legal challenges faced by businesses in order for them to prosper, the firm’s teams are at the forefront of analysing current and future legislation that could affect clients – providing them with expert related advice.

“We are very inspired and excited with this new chapter in our firm’s journey,” says Jackson. “We are committed to continuously growing in expertise and people, so that we remain in the best position to serve our clients.”

FOR MORE INFO

Ncondo Chambers, Vuna Close, uMhlanga Ridge; 031 536 8500

Ncondo Chambers, Vuna Close, Umhlanga Ridge

CY 205x275 advert 2017.indd 1

031 536 8500

www.coxyeats.co.za

2017/04/25 1:40 PM

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The hidden secrets of

TEA TREE OIL GROWN LOCALLY IN A HIDDEN VALLEY, TEA TREE OIL IS ONE OF NATURE’S MOST POTENT PANACEAS

I

story and pictures stephen smith

t’s amazing what lies hidden in the hills and valleys of our area. If you drive along the R103 you’ll get glimpses of the 1 000 hills the area is named after, but it’s hard to come to terms with how much is there.

For example, if you turn left just after the Comrade’s Wall, follow your nose and you’ll drive past plantations of litchis, macadamias, and a funny looking conifer tree that you can’t figure out why it would be farmed. If you were to stop and pop your hand through the fence and crush some leaves, the air would become fragrant with a healthy scent that you wouldn’t quite be able

Health benefits of tea tree oil • Antifungal • Antibacterial • Anti-inflammatory • Antiviral This means you can use the tea tree oil products for everything from fungal infections to scrapes, sore throats, cleaning toothbrushes, lice … you name it. Tea tree oil is for external use only – although you can use it as a mouth wash, as long as you don’t swallow it.

to put your finger on.

And that would be the aroma of tea tree oil, and the trees would be tea trees (Melaleuca alternifolia). No, don’t pick a few and expect to make a brew to drink with your afternoon rusk – the tea tree is not the plant that is used to make Five Roses.

To find out more about the plant, the oil and 1000 Hills Essential Oils, I visited Heather and Neil Mather at their farm in Drummond.

“We bought the farm about three years ago, and we knew absolutely nothing about tea tree oil then. We did some research and Neil looked

»

FAR LEFT: Heather and Neil Mather stumbled upon tea tree oil when they bought their smallholding, but they are definite converts now!

LEFT: The adult trees

appear disfigured and stunted, cut down to kneehigh at harvest time.

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on YouTube to learn how to make a still, which he did. But it wasn’t as easy as we thought it would be! That first year we cut 800kg of plant matter. We loaded it into the still and waited for the liquid gold to pour out. I think we got five litres that first year, from 800kg … It seemed as though it was going to be far too much hard work to make it worthwhile,” says Heather.

But the Mather team persevered, and this year they got about four litres of oil from every 260kg load they put through their still, which would equate to about 14 litres from 800kg, and things are on the up and up.

It doesn’t stop with extracting the oil, of course, and Heather has developed a range of tea tree oil based health products. When the oil is extracted, a by-product called hydrosol is produced, which is a 3% concentration of tea tree oil in the water used in the still. This is also incredibly useful with a wide range of benefits.

Heather makes all the products herself, and

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ABOVE: Heather in her little factory and showroom, along with her faithful protectors.

Phil is rightly proud of his still, handmade by himself.

Warning!

Don’t use neat tea tree oil on your skin – it can burn you. Use it as suggested or in the prepared products.

Hydrosol can be applied directly as it is already diluted.

her catalogue now contains a gel, a cream, the hydrosol, a lip balm, soap in handy little cotton “socks”, an insect repellent, a liquid soap and a foot balm.

Where to next? “Our market is developing, but it is incredibly frustrating. People are just unaware of what tea tree oil can do for them, although things are definitely changing, if slowly,” says Heather. “South Africa is so far behind in adopting tea tree oil and its many uses, but the change has started.”

The final goal for Heather and Neil is to have 20 000 tea trees, which will mean year-round harvesting and processing. They’re working on that slowly, with having recently planted another 2 800 trees to bring the total to 4 800, but they’ve also started planting lemongrass, rosemary and lavender to broaden the scope of their essential oil offerings.

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FOR MORE INFO 084 554 0418 W 1000 Hills Essential Oils

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*food

Family

FAVOURITE RECIPE BY LUCY MARKEWICZ

TAHINI AND FETA BAKED RIVERSMEAD CHICKEN THIGHS Ingredients: • 6-8 Riversmead chicken thighs • 500mℓ yoghurt • juice of 1 lime • thumb-size knob of ginger, peeled and minced

Riversmead The Ridge The Crest Advert•.indd 1

A FLAVOUR-PACKED SUPPER DISH THAT’S EASY TO MAKE USING THE FRESHEST INGREDIENTS – THANKS TO RIVERSMEAD FARM-FRESH CHICKEN • 3 cloves garlic, chopped • 15mℓ cumin • 15mℓ coriander seeds • 15mℓ mint • 15mℓ marjoram • 15mℓ salt • 5mℓ pepper • 125mℓ tahini • 80mℓ - 125mℓ feta • 45mℓ toasted sesame seeds • pomegranate rubies

• fresh coriander Method: In a bowl mix together the ginger, garlic, all the herbs and spices, salt, pepper, tahini, yoghurt and lime juice. Marinade the chicken overnight in the tahini yoghurt mixture. Preheat oven to 180°C. Remove the thighs and wipe off the marinade,

reserving it for later. Brown the thighs in a hot pan until the skin colours nicely. Place in a casserole dish, cover with the tahini yoghurt marinade.

Bake in a preheated oven for 45-60 minutes or until cooked through. Garnish with crumbled feta, sesame seeds, pomegranate rubies and coriander.

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2019/08/30 11:48

advertorial*

Vega School

TRAILBLAZERS

M

MEET THREE WONDER WOMEN, ALL IIE VEGA GRADUATES, WHO ARE MAKING WAVES IN THE INDUSTRY

aking the right study choice is ultimately the starting point of a career, which means students and parents want to ensure they select a future-proof education. Vega School is not just about students finding a job, but rather something more significant; finding their purpose. The school is known for producing mavericks and trailblazers leaving a significant mark in the industry.

A tertiary educational brand of the Independent Institute of Education (IIE), Vega has an unmatched IIE-Vega graduate employment rate: ninety five percent of the graduates are employed within just six months of graduating.

Celebrating its 21st year since launching the school in Johannesburg, Vega has seen over 8 200 alumni setting trends in the brand, business and design industry – both locally and abroad. These figures are a direct result of the school’s methodology, industry network and the decision to expand its IIE offerings over the last few years – adding brand management and strategic brand communication programmes to its largely design-based portfolio.

Kudos to our *Vega stars

 Third years, BA in Creative Brand Communication, from left, Roxanne Schoon, Justine Clyde and Amy Tjasink, won a Gold Loeries Award.

 Tannah Renou, BA Graphic Design second year, and Barry Beukes, BA in Creative Brand Communication third year, won the Wild Bean Cup Design.

Celebrating its 21st year since launching the school in Johannesburg, Vega has seen over 8 200 alumni setting trends in the brand, business and design industry 28

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Thina Dyantyi

Studied an IIE BA in Strategic Brand Communication, landed an internship in her second year at Barrows Global, and before she graduated was appointed Field Marketing Specialist at Red Bull.

“Considering myself as a strategist, I had always undermined my capabilities to be an innovator and forward-thinker,” says Thina. “Through Vega and the learnings of my degree, I gained the confidence to regard myself as a creative in my own right. I became more open to sharing my ideas, taking my earned seat at the table with the creative big shots and making my presence felt.”

The Vega experience was for Thina defined by opportunities to engage in reallife client briefs through the annual Brand Challenge, and shaped by her determination to make the most of these opportunities to rise to the challenge. “Opportunity lies in everything that you do, even when you think people aren’t watching or taking notice – they are. I was surrounded by a pool of talent – graphic designers, brand strategists, photographers, content creators and visionaries. I simply couldn’t afford to miss out on the opportunity to learn from these resources every day.”

Thina’s advice to school leavers is that learning is a never-ending journey.

“Discover your why, the very core of why you want to succeed, and be relentless in pursuing this,” she says. “And parents – support your children! As future game changers and innovators, they’ll hear the word ‘no’ a hundred times. Their first ‘yes’ should be with you.”

LAND. CLE RD A W HO

PIC TU RE :

PIC TU RE :

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Aimee Crankshaw

Studied an IIE BCom in Strategic Brand Management and landed her dream job as content strategist for The Sharks.

“I have always been passionate about rugby and fell in love with not only The Sharks style of rugby, but also their brand and all that they stand for,” says Aimee – who has recently set up the brand’s in-house creative agency.

The Vega way of thinking and approaching problems has prepared Aimee for the highly competitive and fast paced industry she’s in. “Vega has always encouraged excellence and motivate students to do the impossible and to think beyond the box society has formed. Vega teaches you to constantly challenge the norms, push your boundaries and design creative solutions when coming up with campaign concepts and executions.

The Vega belief and culture is that there is a creative solution for all problems, you just have to expand your way of thinking to find it.”

Dedicating her three years at Vega to gaining as much knowledge as she possibly could, Aimee says the lecturers were always very accommodating and enjoyed sharing their experience and knowledge with students who were hungry to learn.

NEXT OPEN DAY: October 26 2019, 9am

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Zainab Mitha

Studied an IIE BA in Creative Brand Communication with core discipline in Visual Communication, and then her BA Honours in Creative Brand Communication. She is now Junior Art Director at FCB and was recently selected as a Loeries Awards Judge.

“Vega’s connections and involvement in industry has been instrumental to me,” says Zainab, who met her current Creative Director through a Portfolio Night hosted at Vega – where members of the creative industry sit down with students and provide advice on how to improve portfolios.

“I met him again during honours when he gave me an award at the Vega Showcase, an evening where agencies have the opportunity to look around at the new talent that’s about to enter the working world.

He offered me a job, and also hired my copywriter – another IEE Vega Alumni.”

Zainab says Vega is the only college that offers a combination of strategy and creativity in one course, and has incredible lecturers who always go above and beyond to make sure each student is pushed to do the best they can. “Being at Vega gradually pushed me out of my comfort zone and turned me into the person I am today,” she says – adding that the Vega Collab lessons, when students of different specialisations had the opportunity to collaborate with each other, were extremely helpful.

FOR MORE INFO Applications are open for 2020; contact the campus on 031 569 1415 or dbn@vegaschool.com. Visit www.vegaschool.com

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environment*

Waste

NOT

THERE ARE NO QUICK WAYS TO GET RID OF THE PILES OF LITTER THAT FOUL THE COUNTRYSIDE AND POLLUTE OUR OCEANS – BUT SOME NOVEL EXPERIMENTS ARE UNDERWAY, WRITES TONY CARNIE

S

tanding on the ramparts of a castle of rubbish, Andrew Venter looks quite majestic as he surveys a kingdom of discarded yoghurt tubs, bottles, tin cans, chip packets or cereal boxes.

His organisation has gone to great expense to collect this rubbish from several parts of KwaZulu-Natal, hoping to reduce waste and extract more value from the throw-away resources that pile up daily in local landfill sites or which end up polluting Durban’s holiday beaches and adjoining Indian Ocean.

While some is collected as litter, there is also a growing corps of shoppers who diligently drop off their waste at several suburban “recycling villages”.

Andrew, chief executive of the Pietermaritzburg-based WILDTRUST conservation and development group,

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has been at the forefront of local efforts to clean up the environment and promote recycling – while also creating thousands of jobs for the unemployed.

The trust’s initial efforts to collect and recycle waste began about 10 years ago, but as Andrew and his colleagues have discovered, magic solutions are not always easy to find.

At the time, they thought that almost everything could be recycled – including plastic packaging waste. But it is not that simple, Andrew explains during a tour of the WILDTRUST waste-recycling centre near Midmar Dam. Most plastics are derived from crude oil, but there is a wide variety ranging from ultra-thin clingfilm to much thicker grades for plastic tables and chairs – all made with different additives, softeners or colourants.

Often, several types of plastic are used on a single consumer product (for example, a red twist-off cap on a clear plastic bottle, wrapped with a third type of thin plastic film for branding).

The result is that only some plastic waste has commercial value – either because it is too labour-intensive to separate and sort millions of tiny lids from the bottles and tubs, or because some plastics (like empty chip and snack packets) have little value.

Hanno Langenhoven, the trust’s recycling strategy manager, says some companies find it cheaper to produce new bottles and jars using virgin sands rather than recycled glass. Many paper and cardboard products are also dyed with bright inks and chemicals which contaminate and reduce the

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RIGHT: Hanno Langenhoven holds a 14kg green brick made from a mixture of recycled glass powder and scrap plastic.

Picture: Tony Carnie BELOW: Andrew Venter inspects some of the 500 tons of waste that his organisation collects every month in Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Richards Bay. Picture: Tony Carnie

recycling value.

Now, in an effort to make sure nothing goes to waste, Hanno and his colleagues are trying to produce more value from what they refer to as “crap plastic” and other waste streams.

A few years ago they began to turn throw-away plastic into sturdy “timber” planks for school desks and benches. More recently they started to make “concrete” housing blocks made from a mixture of crushed-up bottles (70%) and crap plastic (30%).

This is heated in a furnace to extrude a slushy mixture into metal moulds

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which then solidifies to produce a 14kg brick that is lighter and stronger than the conventional version.

Hanno says the machine can produce 200 building blocks a day, but the long-term vision is to distribute new “green brick” plants to places where the plastic litter problem persists, especially in poorer communities.

“Some of the glass goes into our bricks, but we are also exploring other potential uses such as a sand substitute for golf course bunkers, for sand-blasting or for chemical and water filtration.”

Another new innovation is “plastic petrol”, which is produced by treating polypropolene plastic in a reactor and heating it at high temperature in a hydrolysis machine to produce a liquid fuel to power diesel vehicles.

While turning plastic into fuel may

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TOP: Throw-away plastic was turned into timber planks to make school desks and benches.

ABOVE: Mxolisi Malambule moulds a semiliquid sludge of crushed glass and scrap plastic to make a “green brick”.

Picture: Tony Carnie

sound like a magic solution, other environmental groups are concerned about the potential air pollution and health impacts of burning or heating plastic on a large-scale.

Groups such as the Centre for International Environmental Law and GroundWork are strongly opposed to large-scale incineration of plastic, due to potential emission of toxic fumes. They also believe that burning plastic or using it for energy heating simply perpetuates the problem of global plastic pollution.

Hanno acknowledges that producing plastic fuel may be controversial, but he suggests that the trust is looking for interim solutions while efforts continue to reduce the scale of plastic pollution.

“It could take another 10 years to find global solutions, but what happens if we do nothing in the interim?” he asks.

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Solving problems not parrot learning That’s #NewWorldThinking

At The IIE’s Varsity College we go beyond knowledge, we teach our students what to do with knowledge – how to think critically and creatively, how to become problem solvers. We make sure our students aren’t just ready for the New World, but ready to thrive in it.

IIE Degree Applications close on the 15th of November. Apply today.

SANDTON

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#NewWorldThinking Process colours for coated stock

Accredited by the British Accreditation Council

Varsity College is an educational brand of The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd which is registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training as a private higher education institution under the Higher Education Act, 1997 (reg. no. 2007/HE07/002). Company registration number: 1987/004754/07.

Accredited by the British Accreditation Council

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27/06/2019 10:44

Discover Durban #durbanhasmore

In Durban for business or leisure? Hop aboard the Ricksha Bus for a scenic three-hour overview of Durban’s major attractions. Explore rich history of traditional Zulu culture in the Valley of the 1000 Hills or visit a local township and experience the unique Durban lifestyle.

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Durban’s sub-tropical climate is ideal for surfing the country’s best waves all year round, lounge on the golden beach, cycle or walk on the promenade, grab a bite to eat, fish, snorkel, scuba dive, canoe or kite surf on Durban’s ocean playground.

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Tel: 031 322 4164

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Email:info@visitdurban.travel

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From adrenaline-fueled adventures to family-orientated activities, Durban offers something for everyone.

Take a guided tour of Inanda, where the late former President Nelson Mandela chose to vote in South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994.

Fall in love once again. Take a walk on the Beachfront Promenade, where you will truly experience love happiness that makes Durban the must visit destination. Pack your picnic basket, meet up with friends or simply enjoy a ricksha ride at the beach to experience tranquility that comes with nature and the warmth of the people of Durban.

www.visitdurban.travel

@dbntourism

heritage*

HERITAGE

Day celebrations WESTVILLE BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATES FOUR FAMILIES WHOSE THREE GENERATIONS HAVE A SHARED HISTORY THROUGH EDUCATION AND FAMILY

KENNEDY HENDEY

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hirley Proctor matriculated from Westville High School in 1960, her son Richard from Westville Boys’ High School in 1990, and her grandson Channing Proctor will carry this legacy forward

TOOLEY MARTIN

when he matriculates in 2023.

Joining this generational ranking as well is old boy Dave Martin (1965), son-in-law Peter Tooley (1989) and Grade 8 pupil Reece Tooley (2023).

1969 matriculant Tony Kennedy’s name appears on the Honours board for cricket.

KIDWELL RUDDER

He is especially proud that his grandson, Warrick Hendey, is attending his Alma Mater.

And the fourth family is Peter Rudder (1965) whose grandson Riley attends WBHS 54 years on. Riley is Mike Kidwell’s son, Mike matriculated in 1991.

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PROCTOR

In every conceivable manner, the family is a link to our past, a bridge to our future” – Alex Hayely

AS LONG AS THE JOURNEY MAY SEEM, SCHOOL IS JUST THE BEGINNING OF LEARNING FOR LIFE. VALUES AT WBHS CHARACTER | DISCIPLINE | RESPECT | RESILIENCE | HUMILITY PILLARS OF EXCELLENCE ACADEMICS | SPORT | SERVICE | LEADERSHIP | ARTS

WESTVILLE

BOYS’ HIGH SCHOOL

031 267 1330 | ww w.w b h s.co.z a

property development*

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he demand for entry-level homes under R1-million regionally continues to grow, especially in areas traditionally deemed too expensive by buyers in the entry-level homes market.

Hillcrest, and consequently Waterfall, has seen exceptional growth not only by way of sheer population increase, but also in the demand for sectional title homes.

David Rowles, developer of The Woods, a brand new Waterfall development, explains. “In under a decade the population in the Upper Highway area has increased by 71%. And the age range of homeowners covers a broad spectrum; 68% of recent buyers are under the age of 49 and 34% under 35. Even though it looks like buyer demographics point towards a much younger buyer, there is still a hefty portion of stable owners between 50 and 64 years old who have remained here – showing that the attraction of the area still exists.”

With an unwavering demand, many potential buyers have been alienated by area price

Introducing

THE WOODS AFFORDABLE, SECURE HOMES FOR FIRST-TIME BUYERS AND YOUNG INVESTORS

points and other barriers to entry such as proportionally high home deposits. But now that developers are seeing the untapped value of this market sector, many have been forced to find a way to make buying a home more accessible. “By removing the historic barriers to entry, we are designing ways

to encourage home ownership to many previously excluded potential buyers. People have always considered the Upper Highway area as inaccessible with high value homes being bought and sold. This really

People have always considered the Upper Highway area as inaccessible with high value homes being bought and sold isn’t the case, there is a huge demand from families wanting to live here, but the right product wasn’t necessarily available,” says Rowles.

With homes priced from as low as R649 000, The Woods has already seen exceptional

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interest and is setting a trend for new sectional title homes in the area. The estate is also designed to save homeowners money with the addition of several green living elements like smart meters in each

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unit, low-flow taps, dual flush cisterns and ambient day-night lighting in common areas.

As a gated estate, The Woods has beefed up security with the obvious factors in place – such as a manned gatehouse, patrol guards,

electrified fencing and biometric and PIN code visitor access.

“The Woods provides a multilayered approach to security, and we know for homeowners and families that this security

provides peace of mind and equals comfort,” says Rowles.

The Woods also offers great communal facilities – such as the clubhouse, pool, braai pods and kids’ play parks – to foster

community interaction and for families to enjoy time together in the safety of the estate. “The attractiveness of The Woods is further strengthened by other compelling factors such as its pet-friendly policy,” says Rowles.

Located only 200m from the already-established Watercrest Mall, location and convenience are draw cards for many, as is the proximity to schools and various entertainment and family-friendly amenities in the area.

With property as an asset class that is growing in South Africa, investors are also keen to get into property like The Woods – which offers a good rental yield from 8,6% in year one and the potential for strong

capital appreciation.

“With only a R5 000 investment, and the ability to earn the capital appreciation between reservation and transfer, The Woods appeals to a broader range of buyers, including first-time homeowners and younger investors. By removing barriers to entry, we are in effect creating new opportunities and opening up a new sector in the property market, and we are certainly seeing the value in bringing developments to market which appeal to multiple market sectors,” says Rowles.

FOR MORE INFO The Woods will have 211 units in total, with 60 released in Phase 1.

Contact taryn@rainmakermarketing. co.za to find out more

Busamed Hillcrest Private Hospital is proud to have been rated as one of the

TOP 20 HOSPITALS IN SOUTH AFRICA FOR THE FIFTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR by the members of South Africa’s largest medical aid, Discovery Health 031 768 8000 471 Kassier Road, Assagay, 3610 GPS Coordinates: 29.7895° S, 30.7425° E bhcphinfo@busamed.co.za www.hillcresthospital.co.za

trending*

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A blast from the PAST 1990 IS THE NEW 2019, AND CRAFT IS THE NEW BLACK. FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS – 2019’S MOST NOSTALGIC TREND YET – ARE MAKING A COMEBACK

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he hottest spring-summer jewellery trend is destined to take you back to school holiday clubs!

Remember the friendship bracelet?

Of course you do – nothing from your youth remains as nostalgic as these bracelets, especially as they were usually crafted with your own two hands, using colourful beads, shells, tassels and letters. What fun we had creating and designing them.

The friendship bracelets of today are a far cry, emotionally, from the talismans we cherished in our childhood. But aesthetically, they are a more refined

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take on our D-I-Y favourites.

Today details include baroque pearls, beads in every shade of the rainbow, a crop of seasonal fruit like watermelon, clementine and cherry. The styles, designs and threads are all inspired by a love for talisman-style jewellery. And whether it has the Greek Evil Eye, the Middle Eastern hamsa hand, the intricate weave and embroidery of the Native American, or a lucky charm of your choice, there is a friendship bracelet or two for you to choose. And don’t forget – get a matching one for your bestie (or not).

Seashell necklaces – once a nostalgic 90s

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holiday souvenir staple – are the must-have accessory for spring. Oversized, mismatching shell necklaces and bracelets in clashing colours and textures, multi-layered and stacked.

Wear two or three necklaces, bracelets or rings at a time – show them off and enjoy.

Spring’s around the corner, so dig out those old friendship bracelets. These collectible and sentimental threads are so much fun, you’ll want to stack them all the way up to your elbows, but be sure to add some of the new 2019 designs on offer, mixing the old with the new and giving you a totally on-trend look!

FOR MORE INFO 1-2. PURA VIDA BRACELETS: www.puravidabracelets.com 3. CHRISTIAN DIOR J’ADIOR BRACELETS: www.dior.com 4. LA CONCH: @la conchs 5-8. ABOUT LACE: aboutlace2015@gmail.com; 072 024 9799

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motoring*

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Your DREAM car

SUPERTECH PINETOWN INTRODUCES YOU TO THE LUXURIOUS BMW X5

magine a world where the car you drive exudes comfort, safety, luxury, performance and peace of mind. An experience that allows you to enjoy the most pleasurable of driving experiences, knowing that you and the family are safe – protected by the most advanced technology in the motor industry.

This is the world of the new BMW X5, which has changed the landscape of the premium SUV market in South Africa. A premium BMW goes hand in hand with a premium BMW dealership group, and the most holistic of experiences when purchasing the latest BMW X5 can be had

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at the world-class BMW Supertech Pinetown dealership – a beacon of excellence, positioned between Pinetown and Kloof, just off the M13 highway.

The BMW X5 is an incredible vehicle, and taking delivery from Supertech Pinetown enhances the experience entirely – with the inclusion of inhouse spa treatments and gourmet meals from the iconic Isetta Restaurant.

The fourth generation X5, launched in late 2018, has already made waves in the industry as an SUV built for a premium experience. From phenomenal technology such as gesture control,

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off-road capability and hot/cold ‘thermo” cup holder functionality, to the latest in innovation with the “Hey BMW” feature – allowing the driver to talk and instruct the vehicle vocally – the X5 is indeed a leader in its segment.

From a design point of view, the new BMW X5 is beautifully crafted with new elements such as the large kidney grille, with the overall look being a muscular but also elegant feel. From negotiating the concrete jungle and ramping the odd curb to traversing through the open off-road, the BMW X5 is pure luxury to drive.

The large cabin with the latest in technology, namely the Live Cockpit Professional system – complete with touch digital screens and appealing visuals – will leave a smile on the faces of the driver and passengers for many miles. Other features include voice control, a touch sensitive steering wheel and a 20GB harddrive based multimedia system complete with

The large cabin with the latest in technology, namely the Live Cockpit Professional system – complete with touch digital screens and appealing visuals – will leave a smile on the faces of the driver and passengers for many miles The BMW Supertech Group is the largest BMW Group in South Africa, with six BMW dealerships, three Approved Repair Centres and two Supertech Select Used dealerships in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.

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USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity and wireless charging.

An optional extra, the crafted clarity glass interior elements, adds that extra touch of elegance. It is indeed a beautiful sight to see a glass gear lever – definitely one to show the friends and family.

Keeping the family in mind, the BMW X5 has the convenient split tailgate – which can be operated hands-free – and a large boot, ideal for long-distance travelling or those daily school and sports bags. The lower tailgate has built security into the frame of the vehicle and can act as a seat for small kids during the onloading and offloading process. If five seats are not enough, the BMW X5 can be fitted with a third row of seating – which can seat two children comfortably.

The great aspect of the BMW X5 is that the cabin and exterior can be tailored to your heart’s content, and sitting with the professional and friendly Supertech Pinetown staff to spec the BMW X5 is all that’s needed to build your dream car.

Supertech Group managing director, Ubaid Tayob, says the new BMW X5 is a game changer in the premium SUV segment, and that the group has already delivered a high number of units.

“This incredible vehicle was launched in late 2018.

Supertech Pinetown’s first event at the dealership, which at the time was still under construction, was the launch of the new BMW X5. Since then, the dealership has built a number of units and left many drivers with joy.

“Our dealerships are not just selling a car, we provide an experience. Our customers enjoy the best treatment from walking in that door through to the building process, finance and eventually delivery. Our relationship does not end there, we ensure that each customer becomes part of the Supertech family for many years to come.”

The new X5 has been launched in the X5 30d and X5M 50d models, and through BMW financial offers these vehicles are priced well – with great assistance on deals.

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FOR MORE INFO

Visit Supertech Pinetown to book a test drive, or www.supertechgroup.co.za

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decor*

Tiny

HOME

BIG ON STYLE, SIMPLICITY AND SUSTAINABILITY, THE TINY HOME IS THE WAY OF THE FUTURE, WRITES CANDICE BOTHA

M

inimalism has gone from simply having a moment to being a popular movement that’s gaining traction worldwide. Reducing the number of possessions, working with a capsule wardrobe and packaging-free produce are some of the ways to live a lessis-more life. Another is downsizing on a mega-scale to a tiny home. And we mean tiny – about 15 to 30m² to be exact. Pioneering this lifestyle in South Africa is the KZN-based Wanderlust Co. They produced the first prototype of their product to showcase at this year’s ECR House & Garden Show and to say it was a hit is an understatement. A flurry of social media posts suggests they are on to something big. But what’s tiny living all about? And is it practical?

“A Tiny House is a purpose-built, moveable home that promotes energy-efficient, sustainable living,” says co-director Megan Jeanes.

Fully customisable, the interiors can be designed to suit your needs and decor style. The board and batten exterior and charcoal roof of the Tiny House showhouse is contemporary

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and stylish, hinting at the chic interior design. The feel is decidedly minimalist, as you would expect, but timber-topped cabinetry and wooden floors add warmth to the monochrome finishes.

“Interesting touches like leather handles on the cabinetry, on-trend black sanware and white subway tiles in the bathroom and a statement pendant light ensure that although small, the space feels decorated and inviting. The layout is surprisingly spacious with two double beds, one

Finishes and fittings are as eco-friendly as possible with the option of a Tiny Home being completely offgrid with solar power, a purpose-designed water tank and composting toilet cleverly housed in a loft with wallmounted lights eliminating the need for a bedside table, and high clerestory windows welcoming in plenty of light without encroaching on valuable wall space – the type of clever design decisions that maximise space without compromising on necessities.

Storage space is there but living this way would require a careful curation of your possessions. “You really don’t need as much as you think you do,” notes Megan, “and living this way is very liberating for many people.”

Situated on a flatbed trailer, the idea is that you could live a nomadic lifestyle in a Tiny Home, moving your house to wherever the fancy takes you. “We have had great feedback from people wanting to rent out square meterage of their land for our Tiny Homes to start tiny home communities, so this will be an option very soon,” says Megan. For now, you can park your Tiny Home at a caravan park or obviously in the garden of a family member or friend – an interesting alternative to a bricks and mortar granny flat.

Prices range from R350 000 depending on the size you choose

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decor*

and the level of customisation. “Individuals can apply for unsecured lending from banks starting at R350 000 depending on your monthly take home pay which you will be able to pay off over a five-year period.

We are hoping to have financing options available soon, in the form of a bond over a twenty-year period, as the banking institutes are interested in our product,” says Megan.

Simplicity and sustainability are the focus for Wanderlust Co and finishes and fittings are as eco-friendly as possible with the option of a Tiny Home being completely off-grid with solar power, a purposedesigned water tank and composting toilet. “We have tried to stick to materials like glass, wood and ceramics rather than

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We have tried to stick to materials like glass, wood and ceramics rather than plastic to be true to our mission of being kinder to the environment

plastic to be true to our mission of being kinder to the environment,” says Megan.

Co-directors of Wanderlust Co, Matt Bower and Kendal McGlashan, are moving into a Tiny Home themselves. “There is no better time than now. I want to be able to tell my children that their dad and I helped shape a movement that shifted our environmental impact on the planet, and the greater dream is to help South Africa’s economy by creating affordable and sustainable homes and investments for the majority of South Africans. The cost of living is extremely high and we want to slash that expense and simplify,” says Kendal.

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FOR MORE INFO info@wanderlustco.co.za; www.wanderlustco.co.za

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THE LATEST ADDITION TO THE TALLOULA EXPERIENCE THE LATEST ADDITION TO THE TALLOULA EXPERIENCE

OVERNIGHT, FULL OR HALF DAY PACKAGES OVERNIGHT, AVAILABLE FULL OR HALF DAY PACKAGES AVAILABLE

Check our monthly 2 for 1 Specials on facebook and instagram talloulabothashill Check our monthly 2 for 1 Specials on and sinstagram 61 Old facebook Main Rd, Botha’ Hill

talloulabothashill 031-777 1586

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61 Old Main Rd, Botha’s Hill 031-777 1586

fashion*

Summer with

STYLE

WITH SUMMER ON ITS WAY, THERE’S NOTHING DULL ABOUT THESE CASUAL SUMMER-LOVING LOOKS OOZING FEMININITY. LORI-BETH JAMES’S ONLINE RANGE, BELLE GRAY, IS STYLISH AND PERFECT FOR HOT BALMY DAYS

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House Of Monet Floral Kimono Dress, R840: can be worn as a dress using a concealed button and front waist tie, or open as an open front kimono. Hickory Floral Smocked Dress, R890: watercolour floral print in dusty pink and muted teal on a cream plaid textured base. Next Level Pocketed Floral Jumpsuit, R860: gorgeous floral print in lavender, cream, pink, magenta, teal, orange, yellow, lime green and blue on a navy blue base.

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Jacky Cotton Pocketed Button Down Jumpsuit, R870. Restoration Knit Lounge Set, R1 280: designed in a soft and stretchy knit fabric, cut in a relaxed fit. Keenan Satin Pocketed Leopard Tunic, R980: a sultry finish and sassy print, featuring a mustard and chocolate brown leopard print on beige soft satin fabric.

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fashion*

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Foliage Printed Blouse, R750: vibrant palm print in turquoise, teal, white and pink on a dusty salmon base and bordered with diamond print. Maeve Lace Crochet Ruffle Dress, R820: all about comfort, designed with a fitted bodice and flowy skirt.

 Preppy Lady Polka Dot Maxi Dress, R860: navy blue with a white polka dot print. Cut with a fitted bodice and float skirt, this maxi can be worn on or off the shoulders.

FOR MORE INFO 083 988 7336 online@bellegray.co.za

Believe It Snake Print Maxi Dress, R850: iconic snake print, featuring navy and grey print on an ivory base.

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advertorial*

I

t’s official. Gone are the days of releasing thousands of flyers out into the world and hoping they end up in the hands of prospective customers. Thanks to the Digital Age, consumers have a direct line to anything they could ever want. Needing a plumber?

Deciding where to eat out? Looking for a house-sitter? Simple.

They whip out their smartphones and get browsing.

But, how do you make your brand stand out amongst the masses to get that all-important click? The answer lies in being at the top of the page for relevant searches.

Getting your brand on page one

So, how do you get to the top of the search results? You guessed it – ​Google Ads​should be part of your strategy. Paid Google advertising, done correctly, is one of the best and quickest ways to get more leads.

Chances are you’ve already come across many a Google Ad (search results with ‘​Ad​‘ before the web address) in your hours of browsing the net. Now it’s time to make them work for y​ our​business.

Why do Google Ads work?

In a nutshell, a well-planned Google Ads campaign succeeds because it brings your brand to a consumer’s attention when they’re actively searching for what you’re offering. And, you only pay when someone clicks, so you’re only paying when it’s working.

What the heck are

GOOGLE ADS?

A LOCAL AGENCY IS ON-HAND TO EXPLAIN, AND TAKE YOUR BRAND TO THE TOP

Call in the experts

TOP: The stylish Brand Candy offices in Hillcrest.

ABOVE: The dynamic Brand Candy team is always happy to help.

RIGHT: Brand Candy directors Janet Hancock and Richard Burgess.

If you were wondering how to get your Google Ads started, the answer isn’t too far away. Right in the heart of Hillcrest, is a creative company with a finger on the pulse of all things digital advertising: Brand Candy.

Steered by directors Janet Hancock and Richard Burgess, who ran successful marketing companies in the Upper Highway area before merging three years ago, Brand Candy offers a range of design and marketing services. Their team is a tight-knit group who relish the thrill of bringing your marketing dreams to life, and always with a personal touch.

So, about those Google Ads

Besides being official Google Partners with in-depth knowledge of search engine marketing, Brand Candy offers graphic design and corporate identity creation, website development, SEO-friendly content creation (aka copywriting), social media management, consultations, and training. They’re ready to help you navigate your way to marketing success and page one of Google.

FOR MORE INFO hello@brandcandy.co.za; 031 765 1421; www.brandcandy.co.za

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I.N.O.X. CARBON LIMITED EDITION PICOT & MOSS 011 669 0500

MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE | ESTABLISHED 1884

weekend escapes*

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n a winding stretch of road between Port Shepstone and Kokstad lies a hidden gem that offers families and adventure lovers the chance to connect in one of KwaZulu-Natal’s last remaining strips of indigenous forest. Just two-and-a-half hours from Durban, this part of the N2 links the traveller to Cape Town,

their legs – from jungle gym to mini golf to animal farm, there’s much to keep little people busy. For adults, if you’re into outdoor activities, a steep 9km trail through the forest is all you need to get that heart rate up.

Up for the challenge, we left the kids for a bit of creative fun in the Kid Zone, and after a quick trot through the resort

grounds we crossed the main road, picked up the trail and disappeared into the bush. The track gets steep quickly – and our pace slowed down to a walk.

Beneath the lush canopy, the powerful earthy smell of damp soil was overwhelming. Looking up, we noticed several huge moss-covered yellowwood trees and looking down, newly rooted porcupine holes.

RIGHT: The forest features ancient and enormous yellowwood trees.

BELOW: The two pools (one heated), provide a great space to relax and unwind.

BELOW RIGHT: Ingeli Forest Lodge and Spa.

Winter CHILLS & Forest THRILLS WHETHER YOU’RE AFTER AN ADVENTURE WEEKEND OR QUIET TIME WITH THE FAMILY, HERE’S A SPOT THAT TICKS ALL THE BOXES, WRITES MELANIE ROSETTENSTEIN

but if you take your time to stop, there is much to be discovered.

The Ngeli Forest – one of South Africa’s Afromontane mist belt forests – is located near Harding, 80km inland from the coast. The drive passes sugar and macadamia nut farms, and as you climb towards the timber plantations you know it’s near.

This high-altitude forest which grows much taller than the coastal forests, features ancient and enormous yellowwood trees, the rarely seen cape parrot and various other animal and bird species.

Overlooking the mist and trees, the ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest is the perfect place to explore this part of KZN. It’s also an ideal spot for energetic children to stretch

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open-air terrace. Meals can also be taken in the bar. During the winter fires are lit in all the public spaces, a welcome retreat from the misty, chilly days the area is known for.

Besides the forest trails, guests can also enjoy challenging mountain bike routes, bird watching and a spa. The two pools (one heated), provide a great space to relax and unwind especially during summer. After breakfast we treated ourselves to a well-deserved back and shoulder massage before retreating to the cosy Foresters Arms pub for a competitive game of darts and board games in front of a roaring fire.

If you’re in the area a visit to the fabulous Oribi Gorge with its natural attractions and Africa’s longest zip line tour, is only an hour away. Whether you’re looking for hair-raising adventure, some quiet family time, or both, it’s there for the taking at the ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest.

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FOR MORE INFO www.anewhotels.com/hotels/ingeli -forest-spa/

Climbing onwards and upwards, the forest was quiet with shards of light slicing through its canopy.

The trail emerges from the bush beneath a fire lookout and continues along the crest of the hill before descending on a path where forest meets farmland.

There was slipping, sliding and the occasional tumble – but we arrived back in one piece, ready for breakfast.

Meals are simple, yet delicious home-cooked fare, served in the dining-room which opens on to an

This highaltitude forest which grows much taller than the coastal forests, features ancient and enormous yellowwood trees S E P T - O C T

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advertorial*

N

o Cash = No Business. A lack of cash flow or a poor cash flow is a major cause of stress for many business owners. It is important to note, however, that poor cash flow is a symptom and not the cause. In order to solve your cash flow woes, you need to get to the root cause of the problem and solve that.

Here are some of the biggest causes of poor cash flow:  Insufficient Sales To Cover Your Expenses And Debt Repayments This means your business could be in a loss making situation, or you could be making a profit – but your debt repayments are too high.

Solutions to this problem could be:

Overcoming cash flow

CHALLENGES

A LACK OF CASH FLOW IS A VERY QUICK WAY TO DESTROY A BUSINESS, WRITES DARRYN LE GRANGE

• Know your breakeven point, i.e. how much do you need to bring in each month in sales to cover all your expense commitments.

• Keep track of your numbers so you know where you are financially throughout the month, not just at month end. Ensure you are running management accounts for your business every month.

• Sales is a function of two things: leads and conversion.

Leads is marketing and conversion is sales. Ensure

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you have a solid marketing plan in place to deliver sufficient incoming leads.

• Have strategies in place to improve your conversion rate, to get your customers to come back more often, and increase their average transaction value.  Outstanding Debtors You have completed the work or delivered the goods, but now your customers are not paying timeously. Solutions to this problem could be: • Implement a robust collections process that is strictly followed

and adhered to. Do not only follow up outstanding money when cash flow is tight, follow up debtors systemically.

• Keep track of your average debtor’s outstanding days. If your terms are 30 days but your average is say 48 days, then you have a problem. Hold customers to their terms.

• Ensure a rigid credit vetting process to ensure the customers are good for the credit in the first place. Don’t extend credit to anyone who hasn’t passed your process.

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 Overstocked Too much stock on the shelf is not a good idea, as you have paid for that stock and it’s sitting collecting dust – unnecessarily tying up your cash flow. Solutions to this problem could be: • Implement a re-order level stock system.

• Identify and sell off slow moving or obsolete stock.

• Ensure sufficient controls are in place for ordering of stock, so that you only order what you really need when you really need it.  Excessive Personal Drawings Ensure you are not being a cash flow drain on your business before it can afford the level of drawings you are taking. Solutions to this problem could be: • Don’t live beyond your means.

• Only buy what you can afford.

• Draw up a personal budget and stick to it.

• Ditch the expensive car – unless you really can afford it.

Entrepreneurs breakfast “HOW TO TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL” WHEN: Friday October 4, 2019, 8:30am for 9am – 12 noon WHERE: Makaranga Garden Lodge, 1 Igwababa Road, Kloof COST: R195 per person EMAIL: Chenal at adminkloof@ actioncoach.com to secure your seat

FOR MORE INFO

081 231 2270 www.actioncoachignite.co.za W ActionCOACH Ignite

*community

E Abundance of JOY

OUR COMMUNITY CELEBRATES PROJECT JOY, FOCUS ON ITHEMBA’S SECOND PRE-SCHOOL UPGRADE

ntokozweni, meaning abundance of joy in isiZulu, is a pre-school in Kwa-Nqetho just outside Hillcrest. The school, catering for 30 children from one to five years old, recently benefitted from an incredible upgrade. The new unique and cheerful space utilises eight insulated shipping containers which house classrooms, toilets, a kitchen and an office and storage facility.

Principal and owner of the pre-school, Bonisiwe Gwala, started the school in a church building located on her property. “The school’s facilities weren’t conducive to learning and were cramped, dark, had poor ventilation. The teachers had to pack up the school every Friday so the church could function over the weekends,” says Tayla-Anne Goss from Focus on iThemba.

The Focus on iThemba team, with the collaboration of 34 donors and partners, made Bonisiwe’s dream a reality and the children now benefit from flushing toilets, water sustainability through the installation of a JOJO tank, floor coverings that promote hygiene, and a fun learning environment – as well as a jungle gym.

One of Focus on iThemba’s key focus areas include partnering with 10 local pre-schools to elevate Early Childhood Development (ECD). “With extensive research highlighting the significance of quality learning and nutrition during a child’s first 2 000 days, in terms of crucial brain development, the need for a sufficient learning space for Entokozweni was a priority,” explains Tayla-Anne.

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FOR MORE INFO Potential partners for future ECD projects can email tayla@focusonithemba.org

Providing Bridges of Hope a place of hope www.focusonithemba.org www.focusonithemba.org

This little one will write her Grade 12 exams in 2033 and we know she is getting the best start today, thanks to our forward-thinking donors who support our elevating Early Childhood Development initiatives.

Partner with us as we Grow Hearts and Minds Hillcrest based non-profit organisation Focus on iThemba provides bridges of hope, resulting in life-altering positive change by investing in children through quality education.

As a registered PBO, donations received are tax deductible and we are B-BBEE compliant.

Be in touch to create a bridge of hope. Thank you!

Chat to Tayla on: 031 710 1800 or info@focusonithemba.org | www.focusonithemba.org

Please scan to donate.

Thank you!

finance*

Enemies of

WEALTH

I

ADRIAAN PASK, CIO AT PSG WEALTH, LISTS THREE OF THE BIGGEST ENEMIES

nvestors generally view geopolitical events, currency volatility and concerns around slowing global growth as the main enemies to wealth creation, but these should be the least of their worries. While these events can cause short-term volatility and uncertainty, there are bigger enemies to be aware of.  Saving Too Little, Especially For Retirement The number one mistake people make remains not saving enough, and the pain is primarily felt in the retirement space. This retirement shortfall gap currently sits at around $70-trillion and continues to grow at around $28-billion every 24 hours. When you consider that the 2008 Global Financial Crisis caused $2,8-trillion in stock market losses, you realise that those losses were less than 1% of the total retirement income shortfall. Yet, we tend to become obsessive about market events because they confront us with a loss right now, rather than because of the severity of their impact.

South Africa is no exception to global

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Brought to you by Wealth Advisor Jarryd

Nieuwenhuis

Email jarryd.nieuwenhuis @psg.co.za for more info PSG Wealth Kloof is part of PSG Konsult – the largest independent adviser network in South Africa and Namibia.

experience. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), South Africa has one of the lowest gross replacement rates in the world. OECD countries have a projected future gross replacement rate (GRR) of 70%, while South Africa’s is only 12%.

This means that on a current monthly salary of R10 000, South Africans have only saved enough to draw an income of R1 200 in retirement.  Emotional Reactions To Market Events Short-term factors often carry more weight than they rightfully should. Market volatility can be unsettling, but it should not deter you from saving.

Yet we find many people postpone saving, believing volatile markets won’t reward them, or opting to save in cash instead of investing in stock markets.

It’s critical to keep your eye on the long-term horizon of your investment and filter out the noise.  Ignoring Inflation And Opting For Cash While inflation does not reduce the money you have saved up, it manifests itself through reduced spending power. Its impact is negligible in the short run but profound in the long run, making it crucial to price inflation into your wealth plan.

Market volatility can slow down wealth creation in the short-term, but saving too little – together with emotional decision making and inflation – are by far the biggest enemies of wealth. An experienced financial advisor can help you decide on, and stick to, a suitable investment strategy that will optimise your desired outcomes and help curb emotional decisions during turbulent times.

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*business profile Lake, Smit & Partners

D1 Meyrickton Park, 2 Meyrickton Place, Hillcrest

At Lake, Smit & Partners, our aim is to ser colleagues with advanced imaging and r for ourselves in equipment, patient care, radiologist training. This ensures that we OUR SERVICES interventional radiology and that you as all times.

CT SCAN

Our venue At Meyrickton Park, in the hea "Lakesmit way".

We offer you a relaxed, n MRI SCAN personalised team to take care of you. Th waiting teams and by choosing this venu ULTRASOUND ence with professionalism.

X-RAY IMAGING Tell yourDIGITAL GP or medical professional abo suit you and your family best.

WHERE TO FIND US Old Main Road

HILLCREST

WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED

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Tell your GP or medical professional about this venue which we believe will suit you and yourt Lake, family best.

Smit & Partners, “Lake Smit Way”. our aim is to serve our patients’ and medical colleagues with advanced imaging and reporting. We’ve set a benchmark for ourselves in equipment, patient care, and ongoing radiographic and radiologist training. This ensures that we remain leaders in diagnostic and interventional radiology and that you as the patient are in capable hands at all times.

Our offices at Meyrickton Park, in the heart of Hillcrest, encapsulates this

We offer you a relaxed, non-hospital environment with a personalised team to take care of you. There is ample parking with reduced waiting times – and by choosing Lake, Smit & Partners at Meyrickton Park, you are guaranteed convenience with professionalism.

Tell your GP or medical professional about this venue which we believe will suit you and your family best.

FOR MORE INFO D1 Meyrickton Park, 2 Meyrickton Place, Hillcrest; 087 310 4991; hillcrest@lakesmit.co.za

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WAY

Our venue At Meyrickton Park, in the heart of Hillcrest, encapsulates this "LakesmitFOR way". CONVENIENCE, We offer you a relaxed, non-hospital environment PROFESSIONALISM AND with a personalised team to take care of you.

There is ample parking with reduced STATE-OF-THE-ART EQUIPMENT, CHOOSE LAKE waiting teams and by choosing this venue you are guaranteed conveniSMIT & PARTNERS AT MEYRICKTON PARK – YOU ence with professionalism.

KLOO

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ter P lace

The Lake Smit

At Lake, Smit & Partners, our aim is to serve our patients’ and medical colleagues with advanced imaging and reporting. We’ve set a benchmark for ourselves in equipment, patient care, and ongoing radiographic and radiologist training. This ensures that we remain leaders in diagnostic and interventional radiology and that you as the patient are in capable hands at all times.

R103

F

Old Main Road

D1 Meyrickton Park, 2 Meyrickton Place, Hillcrest

CONTACT US FOR A BOOKING Tel: 087 310 4991 hillcrest@lakesmit.co.za SOCIAL MEDIA lakesmitpartners lakesmitpartners Lake, Smit & Partners

S E P T - O C T

2 0 1 9

WWW.LAKESMIT.CO.ZA

Two in a row.

Jaguar Land Rover Hillcrest has been awarded Dealer of The Year for the second consecutive year Jaguar Land Rover Hillcrest has done it again, winning the Dealer of The Year in South Africa, a back-to-back accolade for the Hillcrest dealership, and a first consecutive record in Jaguar Land Rover South Africa’s history books.

This coveted award recognises the efforts of the individuals and businesses representing Jaguar and Land Rover, covering all elements of sales, customer service, training and other such customer centric touchpoints.

dealership in 2013, this is the 3rd time the dealership has walked away with the Dealer of The Year title, following on from previous success in 2015 and 2018.

These awards further cement the decision to provide the unique Jaguar Land Rover experience to the Upper Highway area, and through a culmination of excellent performance, sales and customer service, the awards speak for themselves.

“We would like to extend our gratitude to our loyal customers, and to the team at Jaguar Land Rover Hillcrest. Without them, accolades like these would simply not be possible,” said Caley.

“A commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction are our primary goals at Jaguar Land Rover Hillcrest.

Through the receipt of the Dealer of the Year accolade our efforts are acknowledged which is enormously rewarding for our teams,” concluded Caley.

“A commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction are our primary goals at Jaguar Land Rover Hillcrest.”

Commenting on the award, Jaguar Land Rover Hillcrest Dealer Principal, Peter Caley explains, “we are thrilled, as this accolade rings true to the very ethos of the SMG brand, and the level of customer service for which our team strives.”

Since having opened the Hillcrest

The prominence of winning Dealer of the Year not only provides customers with peace of mind and confidence in that they are dealing with a reputable business, but promises a consistency in service delivery that has become synonymous with the SMG brand.

A unique aspect being that everyone pulls together in the same direction and it is made certain that all team members are on the same page, according to the goals set.

SMG’s Sean McCarthy & Peter Caley accepting the Dealer of The Year Award.

Adding to the SMG accolades at these awards, sister SMG dealership Jaguar Land Rover Pietermaritzburg, was runner up in the 2019 Dealer of the Year and won Sales Dealer of the Year.

Come in and experience this unique customer centric dealership for yourself and see how two distinctive brands can satisfy any premium vehicle desire.

Whether you are a sports car, coupe or SUV fan, Jaguar Land Rover Hillcrest has it all, including electric vehicles.

Jaguar Land Rover Hillcrest is situated at 37 Old Main Road. Call 031 9416464 or browse www.smg.co.za

JAGUAR LAND ROVER HILLCREST

DEALER OF THE YEAR 2019

socials*

SEEN AROUND! SEND YOUR PICS TO KATRINE@FAMOUSPUBLISHING.CO.ZA

Entrepreneurs 4 Africa Conference

The Robin Hood Foundation’s Entrepreneurs 4 Africa Conference held at City Hill Church in Hillcrest was a huge success. Over a thousand aspirant and existing entrepreneurs were trained, inspired and mentored by top class speakers, trainers and experienced business owners.

1

 Linda Williamson, Hermann Haupt, Pathma

Devraj and Kim Griffith Jones.

 Khwezi Becker, Gcina Mhlope, Cindy Norcott, Vusi Thembekwayo and Kim Griffith Jones.

St Mary's Old Girls' Day

From the Class of 2012 all the way to 1954, St Mary’s welcomed back reunion groups and a number of ladies who travelled from overseas. It was very special to see the reminiscing, laughter and heartfelt connections across the ages.

 Carol Wilson, Chantal Stow, Michelle Sumner,

Liesel Marnitz and Cara Landman.

 Amy Matheson, Amy Wiles and Joanne Mills.

 Laila Suleman, Carryn Payne, Amandla Madikizela

and Nelisiwe Xundu.

2

Local Candidate Attorney Clinches National Award

Jessica Schwenn from Schwenn Inc. Attorneys & Conveyancers recently represented KZN at the WOZA Women in Law Awards in Sandton, where she was announced as the national winner of the Candidate Attorney Change Maker Award for her commitment to community support and upliftment.

 Jessica Schwenn.

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5

KZN Institute of Architects Inauguration

Patrick Smith was inaugurated as President of the KZN Institute of Architects at Hillside Campus in Hillcrest recently. Five awards for architecture were also presented.

 Tim Napier, Lindsay Napier, Danielle Napier and Erica Coskey.  Kevin Bingham, Patrick Smith, Charles Nduku and Ruben Reddy.

7

Thrive Pharmacy Cocktail Party

Thrive recently celebrated their 60th birthday with a fabulous cocktail party.

 Jane Zietsman, Lynda Mutsaerts and Gerard Viger.

9

8

MODULAR KITCHEN DESIGN OPTIONS INCLUDE 6 GORGEOUS DESIGNS AIMED AT THE DIY ENTHUSIAST, PACKAGED INTO A “FLATPACK” BOX WITH INSTRUCTIONS.

FRIENDLY, AFFORDABLE, GENTLE CARE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Kitchens by

DENTIST

BChD (UWC), PDD Int Ortho (UWC), M.Med (UKZN). Practice no 0599395

Dr Sonam Balwanth

MEDICAL AID RATES Check ups & cleanings / Fillings / Root Canal Treatment / Extractions / Dentures (False Teeth) Veneers / Crown & Bridge work / Teeth Whitening Removable Orthodontic Plates

Our units can also be purchased individually to allow you to create your own design or add onto an existing design 082 378 5939 | info@mcwhit.co.za | www.mcwhit.co.za free design consultations & competitive prices

NEW PREMISES

031 764 0114 | drsonambalwanth@gmail.com Shop 7 Natalia Terrace | Commercial Centre 15 Charles Way Kloof

SECURE YOUR SPACE IN THE CREST MAGAZINE TO SHARE YOUR MESSAGE WITH THE UPPER HIGHWAY COMMUNITY Contact us now to find out how we can customise an advertising campaign for your business.

CALL ANNIE 066 254 0621 OR GAYLENE 081 707 6313

last word*

Bedazzed by

BILLIONS

I THOUGHT I WAS A REALLY COOL DUDE AND NOTHING COULD EMBARRASS ME, WRITES GREG ARDÉ, BUT THERE WAS THAT WORD illustration jeremy nell

I

came across a scintillating new word the other day and I can’t shake it. Actually, I spilt my coffee when it first leapt off the pages of a magazine. I was lounging at a swanky cafe at the time, pretending to belong to the jet set with not a care in the world but what to pack for my beach jaunt to the Bahamas.

The word transformed me from Daddy Cool to Silly Fool.

I turned scarlet, and snuck the magazine under a copy of one of Durban’s daily rags that now masquerades as a newspaper.

The folly that filled the front page that day calmed me enough to regain my composure. I got my groovy Don Johnson demeanour back on and soon a gaggle of “gals” at a table nearby caught my eye. I was back in action. Naturally, I paid them no attention and read the silly newspaper report instead.

It was about Durban’s new R62-billion inner-city plan to end grime, crime and homelessness and featured our acting mayor Fawzia Peer.

Anyway, the R62-billion plan, I read, was a public-private project and the city naturally

64

wanted businesses to invest and fix what politicians so often make a hash of.

Reading Fawzia’s story made me think of Donald Trump and Dr Evil and how billions slip and slide off the tongues of politicians with graceless ease.

Recently Trump said he turned down a $2-billion deal in Dubai. Quoted in an esteemed rag, Trump said the deal was with “a very, very, very amazing man — a great, great developer friend of mine, great guy ... I turned it down” – because he’s the president, you know.

The mere mention of billions obviously makes politicians and other wannabees feel better about themselves. It pumps up their flagging egos and fragile prestige, and is a feeling, I imagine, that originates near your loins and rises to a mighty crescendo somewhere.

I once worked for a potbellied dwarf who fancied himself a bit of a Richard Branson, but who got his loot from the government pension fund, so I don’t know why he feels so grand about himself.

Anyway, he loves to call himself a “billionaire”, which to me

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seems silly and a bit like the skit from the Austin Powers movie.

You know the one … Dr Evil dangles his pinky in front of puckered lips and threatens to nuke the free world unless he’s paid a ransom of “one million dollars”? And then his sidekick (Robert Wagner) awkwardly reminds him that a million is a bit pathetic, so after a dramatic pause Dr Evil says, “OK, one hundred billion dollars”.

Which reminds me of the Durban businessman who gets fawning journalists to describe him as a billionaire when often he struggles to pay his bills, poor bloke.

Anyway, the point is that billions make people grander, bigger, better, more puffed up and important than they really are.

Politicians love to bedazzle us with billions. If a speech doesn’t have a billion in it, is it really worth it? I mulled this over while I read the newspaper article and cast my cool, casual gaze towards the “gals”. It was a smooth, lazy, one-eyed, not too interested look. They fluttered excitedly and I pretended to look down at the paper, only (horror of horrors), I saw the bloody magazine article again with THAT WORD. It screamed out at me and once again I turned crimson and wished I could just disappear into my latte.

The word is vajazzle, it’s like bedazzle only it involves adorning … oh my gosh, I’m just too shy to say. Google it – it involves crystals, glitter and other such decoration. And it’s also exactly what politicians do to make their very dour selves seem interesting. It’s so very embarrassing!

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TAG HEUER CARRERA CALIBRE 16 Chris Hemsworth works hard and chooses his roles carefully. He handles pressure by taming it, and turning it to his advantage. #DontCrackUnderPressure was coined with him in mind.

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