" S i m b i t h i i s a p a r t i c u l a r l y s p e c i a l p l a c e f o r m e h a v i n g
g r o w n u p o n B e v e r l e y F a r m a s p a r t o f t h e L a d l a u f a m i l y .
W a t c h i n g t h e e s t a t e e v o l v e o v e r t h e y e a r s a n d s e e i n g
t h e o r i g i n a l v i s i o n c o m e t o l i f e h a s b e e n a r e a l p r i v i l e g e
L o c a l R e a l E s t a t e i s a n e s t a b l i s h e d b r a n d o n t h e N o r t h
C o a s t O u r r o o t s a n d c o l l e c t i v e e x p e r i e n c e r u n d e e p O u r
t e a m m e m b e r s h a v e b e e n a n i n t e g r a l p a r t o f t h e
S i m b i t h i j o u r n e y f o r m a n y y e a r s a n d o u r e x p e r i e n c e d
S a l e s a n d R e n t a l s t e a m a r e e x c i t e d t o c o n t i n u e s e r v i n g
t h e c o m m u n i t y a n d c o n n e c t i n g w i t h y o u "
– Tim Johnson
Graham White, Managing Director
Tim Johnson, Founder & Principal
From the Kitchen
the perfect dish to add to your summer menu, and - dare we suggest - your christmas menu? Succulent stuffed chicken, buttery potatoes and a gorgeous sauce...you cannot possibly go wrong!
behind the scenes of the 2024 General managers' cup, complete with a helicopter entrance, and loads of bubbly.
Meet The Sakwa Family
James, Susan, Kina and nyishe invite us into their bushwillow close home and we enjoy a sunny afternoon of fun and giggles.
in this edition, Graeme leslie chats about pesticides at Simbithi, and prof corrie Schoeman shares insights about light pollution.
Simbithi Management | Admin | enquiries@simbithi.com | 032 946 8360/1 Simbithi Country Club | pro Shop | proshop@simbithi.com | 032 946 5407
Control Room | controlroom@simbithi.com | 032 946 8373/4/5
Visitor SMS Verification | text See to 31671 (or download Simbithi residential app: Search ‘Simbithi’ on App store or Google play Store) Website | www.simbithi.com
General Manager
Simbithi Eco-Estate gm@simbithi.com
From the
General Manager
While it certainly feels like summer has taken her sweet time arriving this year, I think it’s safe to say she’s made her long-anticipated arrival. As I write this, the gloomy clouds of last week have parted and the sun is warming Simbithi up beautifully.
As always, our culture at Simbithi is focused on welcoming you home. At this time of year, especially, there is a great energy on the Estate with families preparing to pack their homes up for the holidays, or windows and doors being opened once again, as our seasonal residents return to their homes. We also have guests coming to experience Simbithi on a shortterm basis. Recently, we launched a full “Welcome Home” series of Did You Know videos on our YouTube channel (@simbithiecoestate), which is a great resource to be educated, or refreshed, on our rules and procedures. Remember, these are in place to ensure life on Simbithi is safe, respectful and enjoyable.
During the next few months, our social media will be populated with all the things we love about life on Simbithi, under the #SummerAtSimbithi. When you are
out and about, whether it’s on our trails, at the Community Centres or you spot wildlife from your garden, we encourage you to share your content with us by uploading it to Instagram or Facebook and tagging us with our summer hashtag. We would love to see Simbithi through your eyes.
Finally, I remind you to be courteous and engaging this season. The Estate will be busier, and while the season may become silly, let us remember our values and allow them to guide the way we interact with each other.
To #TeamSimbithi, thank you for an incredible year. We have achieved much together, and I look forward to taking the Estate to greater heights in 2025. And, to our community, each of you makes Simbithi what she is. Your stories, your personalities, your commitment to enjoying this wonderful space we call home have been the highlight of this, our 20th year of existence.
Have a blessed Christmas and an awesome New Year, and we’ll see you in 2025!
Marc Mc Clure
Editor From the
Have you ever felt…blech?
Hang on, let me elaborate; that seemed a bit random.
Just a few moments ago, I was browsing through WhatsApp and saw one of my dearest friends requesting a recipe for banana bread. Now, I’m no Nigella but I’m a decent baker (although I have taken a bit of a hiatus during my tenure as a part-time student – more about that in my next ed’s note). I rifled through my trusty, handwritten, batter-splotched recipe book and found my no-flop recipe.
When I shared it, I shared a special tip that bubbled back into my head later in the afternoon: the riper the banana, the more lip-smackingly delicious the bread would be.
There are always bananas in my house, primarily because I like them in my bran flakes every morning, and secondarily because my husband takes a meandering fancy to them every so often. So, I’m often left with a surplus, and whenever I see a crop looking woeful, I whip them out and start creaming sugar and butter. Discarding them is an act of sacrilege I shan’t allow.
Have you ever seen a sad ‘nana? When it’s getting softer, or pap like the Afrikaans meisie in me would say, and those dark
spots start appearing, making it look like it’s taken a terrible fall? It’s a truly withering sight, and it’s perhaps a human instinct to instantly look for the bin. But, consider the miracle of ‘nana bread: a warm slice slathered with butter, scarfed down with a cuppa tea is a guaranteed mood-booster (there must be scientific proof of this, somewhere).
I’ve felt like a battered ‘nana, before –haven’t you? BLECH. Perhaps, the end of this year has you feeling a bit wilted and icky. But, let me remind you that the year is not over. And, that you still have use. You still have purpose! With a little baking powder, chocolate and the warm cocoon of an oven, you can become ‘nana bread.
Go on. Give yourself some grace. Use these holidays to incubate, just like ‘nana bread in an oven. Take long naps with a fluffy blanket. Affirm yourself like a sprinkling of sugar. Enjoy your family, like chunks of chocolate. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and you, dearest, are all kinds of wonderful!
Enjoy the read. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Simbithi!
marketing@simbithi.com
Publisher lorinda Scott | 082 562 7202 | lorinda@fabmags.co.za
Sales Director lucille Wendler | 083 747 3694 | lucille@fabmags.co.za
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Cover Photo Savannah du toit, creativSprout
Club General Manager From the
Summer is on our doorstep, and we are preparing for a bumper season. Thank you for your patience this year. Several Club projects have affected our trade, but as they close out, we look forward to a strong finish to the calendar year. The Club will be bustling this summer, so ensure you get down to see us.
Starting with golf, our porters’ kiosk, located at the golf cart park adjacent to the Drop Zone Bar, is now complete. The experience has certainly been upgraded with this smart workstation for our staff, which will assist with the golf operations on the ground.
Speaking of golf, our course is looking magnificent! We are expecting a record round count this summer, so book early. To ensure we keep our operations efficient, and we are respectful to the field - visitors who book for golf, and do not show will be liable for the fee.
With our golf course improvement project also complete, the culmination of years of commitment and hard work is beginning to yield tangible results. This is evidenced by compliments received from members and guests, which has taken our golf experience to the next level. Our commitment to continued operational spend will ensure the experience
continues to evolve. Our thanks to the team at Matkovich for their dedication and hard work.
Exciting news for our families: the Play Park is back! Thank you for your patience, while we attended to this important piece of our Club. Bring the younger residents to enjoy the new play park pieces while you relax at the Fig Tree Restaurant with family and friends.
Moving downstairs to the Fig Tree, Monday Night Off and Chef’s Special will take a short break between 15 December 2024 and 6 January 2025. But worry not, the good news is our legendary Curry Night and Sunday Carvery will continue throughout the festive season. Keep 8 December 2024 open and book your Sunday lunch tables as our annual visit from Santa Claus is on the cards!
Remember, the Club is closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day to give our team a well-deserved break with their families. If you are travelling during the festive season, and we do not get to see you, please be safe.
Take care and be kind, happy holidays to you all.
Craig Nell
General Manager
Simbithi Country Club
clubgm@simbithi.com
Be a part of one of SA’s leading independent traditional boys’ schools. With over 100 years of experience, Kearsney offers an ideal boarding environment for boys. Weekly buses from Ballito, Umhlanga, Zululand and Pietermaritzburg for returning boarders.
Simbithi
Snippets
A Round-Up of estate and club news
IT’S A FULL HOUSE
how lovely to see our pavilion Room full for our 2024 SeehOA Annual General meeting. thank you for showing up, Simbithi, as we strove for #4Andmorein2024.
Natural Wonders
margi lilienfeld captured this image of fungi in the mngeni Forest after a downpour.
Just Simbithi Looking Lekker
this was the apt caption shared by one of our favourite photographers, chris Allan, when he popped us this gem.
michelle hilestad caught this gorgeous moment of a little monkey keeping warm on a cold day. OH (BABY) MONKEY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE
Uh Oh…
this gentleman stood at his post for a considerable amount of time and still, we aren’t too sure what the emergency was.
KEEP RUNNING
Our RUnSimbithi keeps growing from strength to strength. here’s the crew after a particularly balmy run, enjoying their coffees sponsored by Williamson plumbers.
WILL YOU HURRY UP?
An impatient cape White-eye giving a fellow feathered creature ‘the eye’ while not so patiently waiting a turn for the bird bath. thank you to colin barfoot for this image.
Hey, Baby!
marlene venter shared this cutie pie on our Wildlife Group.
Simbithi SnippetS
Simbithi Diary
There is just so much to see and do on Simbithi Eco-Estate. Below is the Estate’s diary of upcoming events. Isn’t life great on Simbithi? You can also view the events on our Simbithi App or on our website: www.simbithi.com/events
Weekly Events
WeDneSDay cURRy niGHT indulge in the north coast's finest buffet: an array of fragrant curries with traditional sides. R220pp. booking essential: 032 946 5403
SUnDay caRveRy
A sumptuous afternoon for the whole family. enjoy a selection of roasts with all the trimmings. R255pp. booking essential: 032 946 5403
fiRSTieS, Special edition: Santa comes to Simbithi! live music with Afritude. come and meet Santa, who will arrive on a special steed! venue Simbithi country club Deck. bookings 032 946 5409 or events@simbithi.com
cHRiSTmaS eve DinneR
venue Fig tree Restaurant. cost R600. bookings 032 946 5409 or events@simbithi.com
nye 2024: Through the Decades venue Simbithi country club. cost R600. children under 12, R350. children under five, free. bookings 032 946 5409 or events@simbithi.com
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Stuffed Chicken Fillet Mozzarella & Spinach
Celebrity Chef Ina Garten is famous for her affinity to chicken dishes, often throwing out the good old ‘winner winner, chicken dinner’ when she conjures up morsels of gastronomic glory. Perhaps we are biased (or, perhaps not) but we think the Fig Tree Restaurant’s Mozzarella & Spinach Stuffed Chicken Fillet is far more than just a winner…perhaps, even surpassing The Barefoot Contessa? In this edition, Executive Chef Godfrey Kinyanjui shares the secrets of this exceptional dish and its accompaniments. Let’s cook!
WORDS JODi chettY | PHOTOS JARRYD DU tOit, cReAtivSpROUt
Meet the Sakwa Family
Family. Noun | /fam.i.ly/: people in your life who are close to your heart, who bring out the best in you, who laugh, celebrate, and dream with you, who love you infinitely. Now, if one were to consider this definition in light of the Sakwa family, one might be persuaded to augment it with the addition of warmth, giggles and a comfort borne of an indelible bond.
Meet James, Susan, Kina and Nyishe!
WORDS JODi chettY | PHOTOS SAvAnnAh DU tOit, cReAtivSpROUt
It was 2007, and James and Susan were living in Ballito. Their twin daughters were not born, yet, and the couple was looking to move into a gated community. On a quiet Sunday afternoon, they drove to an estate in Tinley Manor to view a property. There, they met original Simbithi resident and property practitioner, Daisy Govender. “We started chatting, and she told us she had somewhere else to show us,” Sue remembers. “So, we hopped into Daisy’s car and drove to Simbithi, where she showed us five plots.”
This, of course, was just three years after Simbithi’s launch, so the Estate was still in the beginning stages of development. “We came to this site
on Bushwillow Close and I looked at James and said, ‘sweetie, this is it’,” Sue smiles. “There was no question, we were not on the fence at all.
We knew this was where our home would be.”
After purchasing the land, which had the perfect view of sun and sea, as he puts it, James shares how they began conceptualising their home.
“We started building in October of 2010, and what a journey it was,” he recounts. A few highlights include six builders, and an architect who saw the steep site and asked ‘so, how much money do you have?’
Eighteen months later, in May 2012, the Sakwas moved into their
stunning home, which looks as if it was created to perch on a hill, overlooking the natural wonders of Simbithi. Dipping slightly below road level, the home opens into a reception area bathed in natural light. The double-volume glass façade at the staircase invites a spoonful of outside, in, a trend that continues into the downstairs living area, where the family spends most of their time.
Interestingly, when they first moved in, their furniture did not quite match the home’s aesthetic. “But, we tried it first,” Sue chuckles. “Clifton Smithers of Union3 helped us create the palette we have, now.”
“There is such solace in Simbithi. No matter what the day has been like, I know we can come here and find a spot where we are safe.”
Warm tones of blue and green are undergirded by swathes of grey, which bounces beautifully off the light wood of the kitchen cabinetry.
The twins, they share with identical grins, are 10-year-old Simbithi babies: born and raised within our community. “This is a wonderful place to raise a family,” James looks over at his daughters, cuddled on the window seat across from him. “There’s a sense of community in Simbithi that is incomparable, and the Estate has been cleverly designed so nothing feels too crowded.” The family adores their mini community in Bushwillow, which is characterised by a street WhatsApp chat, and a braai or two, every so often.
For Kina and Nyishe, the fun of Simbithi lies in driving around the Estate and participating in community events – they have traded at nearly every Simbithi Kids’ Market in the last five years! They share a favourite community centre, the Heron, which is solely because of “the chicken nuggets”.
Sue concurs, mentioning the joy of being greeted daily by our friendly gate officers. “When I come home, there is a distinct energy I feel as I drive through Simbithi. It is a serenity that centres me.”
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Our recent sales showcase our commitment to getting the best results for our clients in this unique community.
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Our team of highly experienced agents knows Simbithi inside and out. From personalised guidance to handling every detail, our agents are here to make your property journey smooth and successful, bringing both expertise and care to each step.
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Backed by years of expertise, we offer streamlined, stress-free property solutions that put your needs first.
Ready to give your listing the competitive edge it deserves? List with Huizemark—the agency that understands Simbithi, inside and out.
Two exclusive homes on prime land are soon to be available in the prestigious Simbithi Eco-Estate. Enjoy savings on transfer duty and the opportunity to select your own high-quality finishes.
This is a rare chance to own a one-of-a-kind property in an unmatched location-enquire now before these unique opportunities are gone!
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LOCAL REAL ESTATE
WORDS CHRISSIE JOHNSON
BThe Timeless Appeal of Biophilic Design in Homes
iophilic design is fast emerging as a powerful and enduring approach to residential architecture. Rooted in the innate human connection to nature, it integrates natural elements—such as light, air, greenery, and organic textures—into the heart of a home’s design. Beyond aesthetics, biophilic principles promote mental wellbeing, reduce stress, enhance productivity, and transform living spaces into restorative sanctuaries.
This elegant home, situated on one of the most private sites in Simbithi Eco-Estate, is surrounded by lush greenery, with both dam and golf course vistas. It exemplifies forward-thinking design, successfully using nature-inspired elements long before “biophilia" became a popular term. The term
biophilia, coined by psychologist Erich Fromm and popularised by biologist Edward O. Wilson in the 1980s, is defined as ‘the urge to affiliate with other forms of life’. Originating from Greek, it translates literally as ‘love of life’. While this concept has been around for a long time, its popularity has grown in recent years, particularly following
the COVID-19 pandemic and the increased focus on mental health.
In addition to the open-sided design that embraces the region’s subtropical climate, this home features expansive glass walls and windows that invite natural light and airflow, connecting most rooms, including the bedrooms,
Top LefT The open plan living room is transformed through clever feature/ screening walls that visually connect the different areas but also physically separates the various spaces based on use. With access to the outdoors on both sides, this space offers two distinct biophilic experiences - the tranquil waters of the courtyard pool on one side and the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape on the other cenTre LefT A serene courtyard pool forms part of the entry sequence to the home and welcomes guests with calming reflections, offering a tranquil first impression. For residents, it serves as a soothing biophilic feature, fostering a constant connection to nature and enhancing everyday living with a sense of peace and relaxation. Top righT An experience of landscape was integral to the design of this home. Situated on a sloped site, and surrounded by expansive greenspaces, this home has a tiered design that responds to the topography. Large windows and open spaces invite the outdoors in, while outdoor areas extend the living space into the serene external surrounds. cenTre righT Large glass walls on both sides of this bedroom invites the outdoors in and provides beautiful views over greenery. This bedroom, like the other three bedrooms, also have independent outdoor access, creating a serene haven for every room. BoTToM This expansive covered veranda, positioned alongside the tranquil courtyard pool, invites peaceful relaxation by the water, creating a soothing outdoor retreat.
to the outdoors. The design incorporates considered sightlines, organic and natural building materials, and thoughtful indoor-outdoor connections. A stunning courtyard pool and two expansive outdoor living spaces flank the living areas: one covered veranda adjoins the tranquil pool, inviting relaxation by the water, while the opposite side features a spacious, decked veranda overlooking the serene greenbelt and golf course. Effortlessly integrating water and greenery, these biophilic elements connect the home’s occupants to nature in every direction. With an emphasis on wellness, tranquillity, and sustainability, this residence
offers what modern biophilic principles strive to achieve: a home that nurtures its occupants, balances functionality with serenity, remains in harmony with the natural surrounds and fosters a deep connection to nature.
As sustainability and wellness become long-term priorities, biophilic design promises to remain a timeless feature.
This home is available to purchase through Local Real Estate. For more information contact:
Graham White: 071 797 6666
Rory Anderson: 073 697 4159
Jake Morgan: 082 607 1229
Scott Whitaker: 063 404 6430
Par Excellence for
There are a few ‘unmissables’, if one may use such colloquial terms, on our golf calendar. If you asked our members, the annual General Manager’s Cup, or GM’s Cup, is right up there in the top five, at least! This year’s outing was spectacular, punctuated by stunning weather.
The day began with our two General Managers arriving in style, courtesy of our security services partner, Fidelity Security Services. As the sponsors of this year’s GM’s Cup, Fidelity Security Services’ Craig Burden escorted Craig Nell and Marc Mc Clure onto the 10th hole, where they were met by the rest of the field.
As always, a phenomenal day of golf on our beautiful course. Thank you to Fidelity Security Services, our sponsor, for partnering with us to ensure an incredible event. And, thank you to the golfers who stepped out onto the course. Thank you, also, to our team who worked hard to put this event together.
WORDS JODi chettY | PHOTOS JARRYD DU tOit, cReAtivSpROUt
COngRATulATIOnS TO THIS YEAR’S WInnERS:
1st Place: 103 points
Jeremy Bentham, Stuart Walters, Chad Knezovich & Nick Arthur
2nd Place: 102 points
Kurt Backeberg, Bruce Armstrong, Craig Lance Dixon & Ian Lentz
3rd Place: 101 points
Louis Taylor, Ian Taylor, Nathan Green & Candice Green
4th Place: 99 points
Jonathan Morse, Philup Jansen, Alan Ashworth & Fred Watts
5th Place: 94 points
Darrell De Jager, Edwin van Loggerenberg, Brian Osborne & Robin Rigney
6th Place: 94 points
Terry Demmer, Carlos Duarte, David Aldrich & Warren Thackwrayl
7th Place: 94 points
James Bruce, Malcolm Goddard, Belinda Dix & Jose Da Costa
8th Place: 94 points
Eugene Zietsman, Gerhard Breedt, Lewis Dixon & Anthony Dixon
SIMBITHI ECO-ESTATE Pesticides and their use on
WORDS GRAeme leSlie
Pesticides and their use can often be an emotive issue. Positions range from seeing them as weapons of mass destruction or critical products for healthy living. The issue can be debated endlessly, but in this article, we look at the more practical aspects of use of these products and how responsible use can be encouraged so as to minimise the possible side effects from their use. This is particularly critical on the Simbithi Eco-Estate where environmental
protection is an important element of our environmental planning.
TyPeS Of PeSTiciDe
The overriding purpose in using any pesticide is the elimination (or more correctly suppression) of pests. First let’s be clear what we are talking about. Pesticides comprise a range of products including the familiar insecticides, herbicides and fungicides (Figure 1). Less familiar products include acaracides (for control of mites), nematicides (for control of
nematodes), molluscicides (for control of snails) and rodenticides (for control of rats).
All have the purpose for reducing the harmful or nuisance effects of pests. All pesticides consist of an active ingredient (the chemical that does the work) and other compounds that help the active ingredient to do its job. Whether a pesticide is “synthetic” or “organic” the aim is the same – getting rid of a pest. In most instances, domestic pests will fall
into one of two or three categories – insects (use insecticides) weeds (use herbicides) and mites (use acaricides).
Figure 1: Examples of organisms controlled by insecticides, herbicides and fungicides.
LabeLS
Every pesticide that is registered for use has a licenced label (see Figure 2). There is a lot of critical information on a label and before using a particular product, READ THE LABEL. I say again – READ THE LABEL. The manufacturer has gone to great lengths to develop the product and how best to use it, and the information they provide on the label is the best you will ever get as to how to use their product most effectively.
When looking at the packaging of a pesticide you will notice a coloured band – typically near the base of the container or label. The band denotes the toxicity of the product (Figure 3). For domestic
use try to use a product that has a green or blue band as these are the safest. However, remember all pesticides can be dangerous if not used as the label directs, so treat them with respect!
aPPLicaTiOn
As said, the label will be your best guide as to how to mix and apply the product, but generally for application in domestic situations a course spray is probably best (for example, when using a herbicide, a fine mist spray can lead to drift resulting in unintentional damage to non-target plants). For small scale domestic use, you have the advantage of being able to precisely place the pesticide - blanket spraying over a large area is not required. Consequently, you can work out just how much pesticide mix you need to treat a small patch or area. Disposal of excess mix is problematic so unless you can mix the exact quantities you need, it’s a good idea to prepare a small volume and use it all up, then make another mix as required. Aim not to have any mix left over.
USe anD SafeTy
The safe use of pesticides is a major topic on its own and we can only skim the surface here but a few key issues are mentioned below.
Correct Measuring
It is best, when preparing a solution to spray, that you wear disposable gloves and use the measuring cup/container that is typically included in the product packaging to measure out the required amount of pesticide. Read and follow the instructions
Meaning of Advice & Warning Pictograms
Wear Gloves
Keep locked away and out of reach of children
Wash after use
Wear protection over nose and mouth
Wear boots
Dangerous/harmful to animals and birds
Not for aerial application
Wear respirator
Dangerous/harmful to fishdo not contaminate lakes, rivers, ponds or streams
Dangerous/harmful to livestock and poultry
Wear Eye Protection
Expiry Date
Meaning of Activity Pictograms
Handling liquid concentrate
Handling dry concentrate
Application
Meaning of Colour Codes
Very Toxic
Harmful
Caution
Keep Locked Away
Figure 3: pesticide labels include a number of pictograms that give information about toxicity (band colour) and safety issues (use of masks, environmental hazards etc). Some of these are shown above.
for applying the correct quantity of pesticide for the job at hand.
Product Choice
We have touched on this before. By reading the label you will get the information needed for an informed decision about what pests the product will control and how, when and where a product is best used.
Dose
This will be given in the product information leaflet that comes with the packaging. Use the dose recommended. Use too much and you waste material and pollute the environment. Use too little and you will not have the desired effect. It is sometimes thought that if a little amount of product is effective, more will be
even more effective. Not so – this simply wastes product and pollutes the environment.
Application Equipment
For small applications a hand sprayer can do the job. For large areas a knapsack sprayer will be needed and is more complicated to use because calibration will be required to ensure the
correct volume of pesticide is applied. However, this is unlikely to be needed for domestic use.
Timing and Placement
This can be important when trying to reduce pest damage to plants. Spray when damage is first noticed. Be aware that repeat spray(s) may be needed to fully suppress a pest. Apply a pesticide where the pest is – not where it isn’t! This sounds obvious, but effective application relies on the pesticide coming into contact with product, so think about where your pests are and treat accordingly. If possible, avoid applying pesticides on surfaces when fully exposed to bright sunshine. Although pesticides can be formulated to protect them from sunlight, many are rapidly broken down by UV light.
Efficacy/Choice of Pesticide
How effective are pesticides? The simple answer is “very”. Modern pesticides are far more
Figure 2: the typical layout of a pesticide label. note the yellow band at the base of the label.
selective in their actions than earlier generations of pesticides. Years of research and development go into the production of pesticides which, when used according to their registered label, do their job. Old products had what is called a broad spectrum of activity. In other words, they were effective in treating a wide range of pests and were quite persistent in the environment. Newer products are more targeted and have lower persistence in the environment.
So correct placement and dose become more important to get the maximum benefit from their use. Very often when a pesticide treatment fails it can be traced to factors such incorrect amount used, poor application methods or timing or even the incorrect product selected. The latter is very important. Gone are the days when, for example one insecticide treated all
insect problems. Today, pesticides are fine tuned to be most effective for a small group of pests.
cOmmeRciaL SeRvice PROviDeRS
Many residents will rely on commercial companies to provide their pest control needs. There are a number of advantages to this (e.g handling of toxic products, calculating correct volumes and calibration of equipment).
However, there have been instances of commercial companies disposing of surplus pesticide mix down the drainage systems of Simbithi! Best check with your service provider how they intend to handle any surplus mix so as to avoid the issues arising from such illegal disposal practices. It would also be valuable to ask just what products they intend using and why. You will then be in a better position to understand the implications of any recommendations that they provide as well as assessing their knowledge of the products used.
Pesticides are, for better or worse, a factor in our lives. Consequently, it is important that we familiarise ourselves as best we can with them so that informed decisions are made for the benefit of ourselves, our community and our environment.
Tricking and Treating
WORDS JODi chettY | PHOTOS JARRYD DU tOit, cReAtivSpROUt
It is one of the best attended events on Simbithi, and certainly one of the favourites. Our annual Trick or Treat event is popular enough to warrant planning holidays and flights around its occurrence, we discovered, this year. Here is the first look at our spooky photo album.
Every year, on a Saturday during October, if you listen carefully, you will hear shrieks of delight (and, terror, on occasion) echoing through the hills and valleys of Simbithi. Now, if you are out for a drive between 15:00 and 17:00, you may see a few strange things, like a lady painted green wearing a pointy hat, waving from behind a glass wall in Fuschia Way.
Or, you could see Spider-Man swishing between Cats Whiskers and Honeysuckle Lane. This
year, you might even have spotted a cup from Starbucks bounding into the Heron Community Centre.
These sights are quite normal on our annual Trick or Treat, and the 2024 edition held several magical surprises. This year, we had a staggering 401 trick or treaters and their parents sign-up, and a record 51 homes register to hand our treats.
Thank you to everyone who participated and made the event a rousing success. On to the next one!
A Timeless Keepsake
What’s better than a birthday?
Well, let’s see. We had a cake, and it was every possible shade of wonderful. We had sparkles and streamers. We had a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday, with more than a few hurrahs, because we are old enough to deserve it. We did not have balloons, but we were quite alright with that, because we are an eco-estate.
What are we missing?
Presents! In honour of our 20th
birthday, we decided to create a present that would speak to the essence of who we are, and that we could share with each of you, to give you a piece of the Simbithi magic.
Enter our 20th Annual, a gorgeous coffee table keepsake that tells the story of Simbithi. In this special publication, we went right back to the beginning, with our developers Mark Taylor of the eLan Property Group, and Mike Simpson of WBHO, to hear inspiring thoughts about our origin. We also feature
nostalgic columns from our former General Managers, and our erstwhile Chairpersons, which speak to the Estate’s development during the last two decades.
One of the most special features is a collection of stories from our ‘Simbithi originals’, residents who have lived here since the first page of our story, and whose home is still within our boundaries.
The Simbithi 20th Annual is available from the HOA Welcome Centre. Pick up your copy, today!
Why we should care about l Ig HT POllu TIOn
Light pollution is the presence of unwanted, inappropriate, or excessive artificial lighting, and is one of the fastest and most drastic changes humans have made to the earth’s environment. Sources of light pollution include street lights, security lights that light up buildings and their surroundings, advertising and display lighting, and floodlights used to illuminate sport fields and places of entertainment. Light pollution has increased about 10% each year over the past decade, and is currently turning night into day in 80% of the world. Near cities, cloudy skies are now hundreds or even thousands of times brighter than they were 200 years ago.
Today, most people can no longer see the true beauty of the night sky from their homes. Even some of the brightest stars are lost in the glare of light pollution from towns, cities, roads and industrial areas. For many people, the sight of the Milky Way stretching across the night sky is a childhood memory; a new generation is growing up without ever seeing our own galaxy. We are only now beginning to learn what far-reaching effects light pollution have had on the nocturnal biology and ecology of organisms.
The day to night cycle is an essential part of nature, alerting animals when to emerge to hunt, forage, migrate, and mate. When artificial
light at night disrupts those natural night cues, wildlife is negatively impacted. For example, it skews the circadian rhythms of songbirds and mice, interferes with amphibian and firefly reproduction, confuses sea turtle hatchlings searching for the moon, throws migrating birds and butterflies off course, and renders many nocturnal insects such as moths more vulnerable to predation. Even plants are affected by light pollution - it disrupts their seasonal rhythms, their ability to sense and react to natural light, and their fragile relationship with pollinators. Many species aren't directly affected by light pollution, but they can be indirectly impacted. For example, bees aren't attracted
to light, but they're negatively affected by light pollution because the plants they pollinate aren't as stimulated to produce pollen by nocturnal pollinators who are driven away by artificial lights. Indeed, there is increasing evidence from scientific research that light pollution will have devastating impacts on biodiversity if nothing is done urgently. In humans, increased
light at night lowers melatonin production, which results in sleep deprivation, fatigue, headaches, stress, anxiety, depression, and other health problems including diabetes and breast cancer. Perhaps most importantly to people, light pollution takes away the enjoyment and awe of the immensity of space, and the spiritual experience of discovering our place in nature.
Unlike air or water pollution, light pollution can be eliminated immediately. However, lighting decisions are made by millions of people, therefore to make real progress you have to get all those people on board. Some communities are showing what those social changes might look like. For example, the entire island community of New Zealand is currently working to
SOLAR SOLUTIONS
meet light pollution standards, the Pacific island country of Niue was the first country to become a certified International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2020, in 2019, France imposed a new law setting strict limits for how and when light shines at night, and in the USA, the National Audubon Society’s Lights Out programme encourages cities from San Francisco to New York to reduce their night-time lights during periods when migratory birds are passing through.
Advocating for large-scale policy changes on light pollution can feel daunting, therefore best is to start small. For Simbithi residents, reducing light pollution can be as simple as turning off the lights, installing motion sensors that limit when lights are on, shielding your lighting so it's aimed downward rather than up into the sky, or adding dimmers that reduce the light coming from a single bulb. Although energy efficient LEW light bulbs are cheaper and longer-lasting than their incandescent predecessors, they produce a short-wave blue-tinted light that attracts more insects and birds and disrupts circadian rhythm in mammals. Replacing blue LEW bulbs with warm LEDs (<3000K) or yellow-tinted filters, for example,
Even plants are affected by light pollution - it disrupts their seasonal rhythms, their ability to sense and react to natural light, and their fragile relationship with pollinators
can significantly minimise these impacts. Moreover, if light in the neighbourhood is bothering you or you think it's a problem, it’s worth complaining to the relevant local authorities. Often, there are simple fixes that don’t cost very much money and can solve the problem effectively. Many of the solutions saves money by reducing electricity usage, hence it is a win-win for everyone.
Artificial light that serves no purpose is a waste of money and energy, and ultimately increases carbon emissions. Reducing light pollution therefore not only benefits energy consumers financially, but helps mitigate climate change by
reducing the emissions associated with energy production. The last decade has seen a global movement to establish “dark-sky places”. These are typically protected areas with clear management plans to minimise light pollution; have night skies below a certain level of skyglow; host public engagement and outreach activities related to the night; support ecological integrity; and engage with local citizens, companies, and management agencies to foster good outdoor lighting practises. Perhaps it is time eco-estates such as Simbithi become part of this drive to maintain the health of our incredible biodiversity, and increase our quality of life by restoring our access to the wonder of beautiful night skies.
ce To
Conne C t
Simbithi Country Club is at the core of the lifestyle the Eco-Estate promotes and embodies. Take a deeper look at what sets it apart from being a clubhouse, becoming a centre for the community to flourish and connect.
llan PhotoGraPhy
Among the greenery, overlooking the majestic Simbithi Golf course, stands the Simbithi country club. located on club lane, it is centrally positioned to be easily accessible by residents and visitors. the club is situated across from the Simbithi Office park and Simbithi verve, forming part of the Simbithi commercial Zone management Association (ScZmA). built for the community, the club warmly welcomes all who stop by for a short break or to stay a while.
Since Simbithi eco-estate was developed in four phases, you could say the club is positioned at the “heart” with it existing approximately between two of the phases; two and four. now known as the Simbithi Gymnasium, this building was the original clubhouse where enthusiastic golfers would stop by once in a while.
As Simbithi and its golf course evolved, so did the clubhouse and eventually shed that title to be known as the country club, suggesting bigger premises and more amenities that go beyond your usual clubhouse. Designed by charles taylor Architects, the structure follows the iconic design philosophy of Simbithi utilising slate, wood, panoramic glass windows, and high ceilings. looking at the club from its aerial view, the impressive building looks quite complicated, but it’s actually rather simple to navigate. At the entrance, you are greeted by the members’ Service centre and Administration offices which house the General manager’s, Admin and Accounts Offices, the pro Shop on either side with the conference venues, and the Dragonfly and pavilion Room at each end.
Down the stairs, you have the Fig tree Restaurant, deck area, and the Drop
Zone bar (sometimes called the “19th hole”). the gymnasium has a separate entrance and a secondary entrance to the pavilion Room. A massive establishment, the club is also home to these facilities: the Simbithi Gallery, and of course the Simbithi Golf course with its halfway house and change rooms. being trailblazers in ecofriendly living, the country club adopts this ethos in its design. the tall glass walls help keep rooms cool while the lush greenery provides natural shade around the deck area. With the recent revamps, the deck was given some upgrades and an extension to include seating pods which overlook the golf course. named after the fig tree, which once stood over the club as an anchor to the deck, the restaurant has become a name synonymous with good food and great service. headed up by executive chefs and dedicated staff, every visit
leaves a lasting impression. You can’t talk about the country club without mentioning the jewel - the Golf course, the product of ingenuity and the visionary mind of peter matkovich. this is an executive golf course, the first in South Africa, and allows golfers to complete a round in three hours. As an executive course, it consists of mainly par-3 holes and with a few par-4 and par-5 holes. So you can play and grab lunch or play and have meetingsa multi-use venue.
turning 11 years old this year, the club grew with the estate and the golf course, however, the main objective for which it was established has not changed. it was designed to create a meeting place for the community where people could enjoy good food, host meetings and parties, and even meet their fitness goals. it is still considered to be the central hub of activity in the estate and
greater ballito area, and home of that renowned Simbithi gees, which is almost palpable from staff and residents alike.
the next few months have exciting things in store for Simbithi’s country club with the construction of their multi-use Sports precinct. located in front of the Gymnasium, it will house two squash courts, a bowls lawn, two padel courts, three tennis courts, a lap pool with a built-in attenuation tank, and a satellite food and beverage facility. Once open, members and residents will be able to enjoy a host of sporting activities at the club.
A landmark on the north coast, and KZn, Simbithi’s country club has become a place for everyone. Families, business people, friends, sports enthusiasts and even those just looking for a change of pace, all are welcome.
RUnfor Your life
WORDS JODi chettY | PHOTOS JARRYD DU tOit, cReAtivSpROUt
October is traditionally Mental Health
Awareness month, a time during which the public is educated about mental health, and – more importantly – reduce the stigma and discrimination those with mental health difficulties are often subjected to. Several experts have advocated exercise as a vital tool in managing mental health, advising that it improves one’s mood, reduces stress and anxiety and aids good sleeping patterns.
With 10 October designated World Mental Health Day, we decided to encourage our community to move for mental health. We partnered with RUNSimbithi, our energetic weekly running crew, for a run/walk on a brisk Saturday morning.
Special thanks to RUNSimbithi for their assistance and facilitating, and to clinical psychologist and resident Joanne Goss, who shared insights on mental health.
