Simbithi Eco-Estate Newsletter June 2024

ENVIRONMENT

FROM THE General manaGer

Winter is certainly making its presence known, especially in the slight drop in temperature every morning. This e-Newsletter marks the halfway point for 2024, already! In our office, it officially means that preparation for our Annual General Meeting is now underway. As we approach AGM season in August, please begin considering nominations for the Board of Directors, communication for which we will share soon. Involvement in the AGM processes is key for the health of our community, and I trust each of our homeowners will choose to participate this year. Our technical team has been quite busy recently. Work below the Guineafowl Dam is nearing completion, and I am sure you will agree that the area is taking shape beautifully. Our Simbithi Scene magazine winter edition, which just landed at our office, describes

the heart and soul behind rebuilding the Guineafowl Dam after the KZN floods.

The team has also commenced work on the Fish Eagle Dam spillway below the Dog Park on the southern half of Simbithi, and our stormwater upgrade close to the Stables Community Centre is well on track.

Moving slightly outside our boundaries, I am sure many would be pleased to note we have applied for speed calming measures on the Shakas Rock Main Road, between our West and Main Gates. We will keep you updated on the progress. While we go through this journey, please may I remind you to adhere to the speed limit on this road.

Another exciting development is our proof of concept at the Country Club Gates: our senior team has been loaded onto the system to

FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

test the software out. The initial phase is nearing completion, and we will invite homeowners to register soon. Keep your eyes peeled. As the temperatures continue to drop and we make our way into colder weather, let us keep those affected by the recent Tongaat Tornado in our thoughts and prayers. On that note, a heartfelt thank you to you, Simbithi, for your incredible generosity and kindness in response to our CSI drive. Within a day, you donated more than R100 000 via Zapper and our CSI bank account and enabled us to deliver three vehicle loads of clothing and food. The donations have not stopped, which is testament to the strength of this community. We look forward to sharing more of how your willingness to help has impacted this community that so desperately needs love, care and all the help neighbours are able to give.

Have a wonderful month, Simbithi!

Marc Mc Clure

FROM THE Club General Manager

Dear Members and Residents,

I hope this finds you well.

A quick rundown of where we are on the masterplan, in case you have missed the monthly updates.

• Both EXCO and the steering committee have committed to delivering a world class bowls rink, and true to nature our professional and contracting teams have been in touch with World Bowls to understand specifications, endorsements and fees.

• Let’s begin with the substructure. The layer work has been constructed in accordance with the specifications laid out by World Bowls, and as our ground materials differ slightly, the contractors have been experimenting with density. Early results are

positive and both Engineer and Contractor are confident that we are reaching the required percolation rate for drainage.

• Naturally, this water capture speaks to our strategic initiatives for promoting sustainability and adhering to ESG principles. The water will be stored in our attenuation tank as described in previous updates.

• The shock pad and playing surface requirements for manufacturing have also been received from World Bowls and these specifications will be manufactured by our supplier to ensure the delivery of the surface that is of world-class standard.

• The ablutions facility is at roof height and the bowling seating area above the ablutions is now taking shape. What a view!

• The squash center has now begun to receive its roof sheeting and its internal works will begin.

• The attenuation tank is nearing completion and the lap pool above, has its structural base.

FROM THE CLUB GENERAL MANAGER

• The Pavilion bar will receive its serving hatch and service door this week and while there still is a lot of material on site, this will be used to back fill and shape.

• The Padel and Tennis contractors will be on site by mid-July and our critical path remains on track for November.

• All contingencies are closely monitored, and we are happy with the progress, quality and safety record thus far.

Member events such as wine tasting, and wine pairing evenings are often sold-out months in advance and with dynamic new offerings, we are continuously looking to innovate.

Big Rugby is on our doorstep once again and with the excitement that was built around the World Cup, we will no doubt be seeking the same adrenaline rush from our boys in green and gold, when we screen games in July. Just a reminder there is no reserved seating so if you have a game in mind, get down to us ASAP.

Onto Club matters, from the start of this financial year the Club has experienced a downturn in foot traffic. With the uncertainty of the elections, the current economic climate and low consumer confidence the effects can be seen in our revenues.

The Simbithi team has been hard at work on a gap plan, which promotes the Club and its amazing offerings to all our residents and greater Ballito stakeholders. We look forward to welcoming you back. Let’s never underestimate the power of the Simbithi gees.

Corporate events and functions are gaining traction as the year progresses. Blue-chip companies return to our Club and special mention needs to be made of our events team who have received fantastic reviews from some of the biggest stakeholders in Ballito. If you are curious about what we offer and want to know more, please give our team at the Members’ Service Centre (032) 946 5400 or Events at (032) 946 5409 a shout.

FROM THE CLUB GENERAL MANAGER

We have refined our Fig Tree menu and look forward to a few new dishes Chef Godfrey and Chef Louis have constructed. Our wine list has seen a few changes as we say goodbye to nonsellers and say hello to new estates and wine offerings. Take advantage of the mild weather, enjoy the views and share your precious time with friends and family at our amazing restaurant. We look forward to giving you a warm welcome.

forward to closing the project out at the end of November 2024. Renewed interest has begun to surface from international tour groups and local golf parties. The patronage from our members over the past couple of months has certainly taken center stage and long may it last. Thank you for your support.

We move to golf. With Club Champs now firmly behind us, a comprehensive calendar now fills the remaining months of this year.

There are a few new welcoming faces at the Pro Shop, and I would like to introduce Ms. Tayla Jade Fox and Mr. Cade Cryer who join our dynamic team. Welcome guys…you are awesome!!

Stay safe, take care and see you soon.

The remaining work on the Golf Improvement project was carefully detailed, listed and presented to the Golf Committee. We look

Craig Nell

Regal Eagl E

Thank you to Paul Johnson for these photographs of a long crested eagle resting in his garden, recently.

Based on-site in Simbithi, Ballito.net Properties has been practicing in holiday and permanent rentals on the Estate for over 17 years, offering full management of your holiday or permanant let with our professional team. Let us give you an expert rental valuation on your home today.

W INTER ’ S E ARL y

Flowering Plants

WORDS

Nqobile Makhaye

Whether it's sculptural like the structure of a currently flowering Aloidendron barberae (Tree Aloes) attracting birds, or blooming with a flower structure resembling a bird like the currently flowering Strelitzia reginae/ Nicolai, ‘tis a season for some perennials to beam.

Let’s explore a couple of the presently blooming blossoms.

Repens

'creeping and rooting' is the habit of the Small Bush Violet, scientifically known as Barleria repens, Kleinbosviooltjie (Afrikaans), Inzinziniba (Zulu).

A rounded bushy form, up to

Tree aloe with a RedWinged Starling nibbling on the flowerhead at Tamboti Trimeria way intersection

A Weaver bird with soothing chirping sounds at SEEHOA courtyard

Barleria Kniphofia rooperi

ENVIRONMENT

1m tall and a spread of up to 1m. This fastgrowing evergreen is pest-free (I spotted at least two spider webs on the shrub at Guineafowl Community Centre. The spider's web will catch insects, therefore protecting the plant). This perennial is unquestionably a feature in a wildlife garden as it also attracts birds and butterflies.

throughout the year, its peak flowering season is in late summer and early autumn in red, mauve/ lilac.

Aspect: Full sun and semi shade; drought resistant.

Wildlife & Ecological Benefits

The splashes of purple are currently visual at our gatehouse beds, at Guineafowl Community Centre cascading on the retaining wall, trellising on trees on the verges of Tamboti Drive, heading toward Trimeria Walk.

The flowers of Barleria repens attract birds and butterflies and the plant also serves as a larval host plant to several species attracting butterflies and a host of other insect pollinators, which, in turn, attract insect-eating birds.

Landscaping Uses

Along the edge of an informal border.

Plant Qualities

Plant it in a large container, or on top of a low wall, where its foliage and flowers can Barleria

Flowering season: intermittently

Dune soapberry

Image taken at the Country Club, next to sponsor’s wall

cascade down, or in a lightly shaded rockery.

Prune the plant back hard after flowering for abundant flowers and to keep it controlled.

*Baleria repens is more compact than Barleria obtusa.

References

Picture this-Coral creeper, Online:

https://www.picturethisai.com/wiki/Barleria_repens.html

Barleria repens, Pitta Joffe, April 2023,Online: https://pza.sanbi.org/baleria-repens.

Deinbollia oblongifolia

Dune soapberry (Eng.); Duineseepbessie (Afr.)

iQinisamasimu (Zul)

Plant Qualities

A tree up to about 5m tall

Flower colour: Cream autumn, winter

ENVIRONMENT

Wildlife & Ecological Benefits

Flowers attract many insects and the fruits are eaten by birds (concurrently, insectivorous birds are attracted). This tree is also host to many kinds of butterflies, feeds honeybees and the leaves are browsed by game.

Plant Qualities

Plant Type: Shrub, Tree 2-5m tall

Flower colour: White, cream, yellow, from spring - summer

Light position: Shade, image below is taken from the club house restaurant pot.

References

Mbambezeli, G. October 2016. Online. Available: https://pza.sanbi.org/apodytesdimidiata-subspdimidiata

Wildlife & Ecological Benefits

Dracaena aletriformis, Large-leaved dragon tree (Eng); Grootblaardrakeboom (Afr.) iShwadi (Xh)

The fruit is loved by many fruit-eating birds. The flowers draw insects resulting in lured insectivorous birds and lizards. It has sweetly-scented white flowers which open at night and attract several species of moth for pollination. Dracaena is a larval host plant to butterflies. It can be planted in pots indoors as it purifies Dracaena

the air, removing toxic substances from the environment.

BEAmInG thE LIGht to A tREE to PRomotE In 2024

Apodytes dimidiata

Witpeer (Afrikaans) White Pear (English) umdagane (Zulu)

short, bushy style, reaching between 5 to 10m. Spread 2 – 4m

the fruit attracts fruit-eating birds and the flowers attract several insects which in turn attract insectivorous birds. The red aril makes the fruits very attractive to birds. The fruit is not messy, so it is ideal for wind break near swimming foundations, like pools and patios.

Apodytes dimidiata is a protected tree in South Africa.

Wildlife & Ecological Benefits

Frequently produced in striking profusion,

Flowering season: Early summer, late summer in white. The scent of the flowers is attractive to insects, and that is good for pollination, attracting honeybees, wasps, beetles and butterflies. The White Pear has a nonaggressive root system which makes a perfect screening plant in between boundaries. The White Pear is currently in seed on Tamboti trail.

Apodytes dimidiata Apodytes

ENVIRONMENT

droning

Other current blooms enfolding below –

Images taken from Simbithi Flora group

For more information on the plants, kindly visit PlantZAfrica | - SANBI at https://pza.sanbi.org/

Aloe pluridens

Dragonfly and a bee

over the Bird of paradise flower at Heron community centre

Gladiolus dalenni

Kleinia fulgens

Gomphocarpus physocarpus

Justicia petiolaris

Gomphocarpus physocarpus

SIMbIThI, Let’s RUN!

We are excited to announce RUNSimbithi is now sponsored by Williamson Plumbers. All those who join on Wednesday mornings will enjoy a complimentary cappuccino or americano courtesy of our sponsor. Here are some photos of our latest outing.

HOa Staff awards

At the first quarterly staff meeting, SEEHOA recognised hardworking employees with the following awards: People’s Choice Award, voted for by HOA staff

Alvin Govender

Employee of the Quarter

Delvin Walstroom

Well done, gentlemen, and keep up the good work!

LOOkING GOOD, TEAM!

Our Country Club maintenance staff looking sharp in their new uniforms.

Ballito Galloping Winds, R102

(Between Tongaat and Ballito)

sEcurity

Domestic Workers’ Forum

In line with our strategic initiative of integration, our security department hosted its annual domestic workers’ forum recently. Resident staff listened to security updates and tips from our security team, and our partners Fidelity Security Services. Lucky draws made the morning extra enjoyable.

Thank you to all who attended.

BEhAvIOurAl COnDuCt

Parents, we would like to remind you that the conduct and behaviour of your children, or minors in your care, while on Simbithi, is your responsibility. Please also remember that this is governed by the minors’ code of conduct, which we have shared below. If it comes to our attention that children in your care have misbehaved, we will bring this to your attention immediately.

all other children, adults, parents, and employees.

3.3. Minors must not engage in any activity that may jeopardise the safety or security of any other person on the estate.

3.4. Minors must not display in any form of racial discrimination whatsoever.

3.5. Minors may not engage in any criminal activity on the Estate.

3.6. Minors must comply with the Minors Code and the SEEHOA Rules.

3.7.3. Possession and/or use of illegal substances;

1. CoDE oF ConDUCt

3.1. Minors must not disrespect, damage or destroy any property of SEEHOA or any other person on the Estate.

3.2. Minors must respect the dignity of

3.7. Minors must not engage in any of the following, but not limited to the list below, on the Estate:

3.7.1. Any criminal activity;

3.7.2. Theft of any description;

3.7.4. The use of foul or vulgar language directed at other residents, children or Simbithi employees;

3.7.5. Bullying and/or fighting;

3.7.6. Throwing stones, bottles or similar objects at persons or property within the Estate;

3.7.7. Littering;

3.7.8. Possession of or use of any dangerous item or weapon;

3.7.9. Malicious damage or vandalism of property/equipment;

3.7.10. Driving of golf cart or any motorised vehicle or motorbike without a valid driver’s licence for such vehicle of motorbike;

3.7.11. Disobeying of any Estate rules and signs;

3.7.12. Cause an unreasonable disturbance, inconvenience, annoyance, or being a nuisance to, or interference with any other resident or member of SEEHOA staff or security;

Jeff Leaver: Chairman

Clive Mc Creadie: Vice-Chairman HOA

Andrew Mackenzie

Louis Boshoff

Gavin Dunlop

Lisa Southey

Margi Lilienfeld

Frank Bradford: Vice-Chairman SCC EXCO

Director Marketing & Communications board8@simbithi.com

Director Security board4@simbithi.com

Director Finance & IT board3@simbithi.com

Director Design Review Committee board5@simbithi.com

Director Technical & Maintenance board7@simbithi.com

Director Human Resources board9@simbithi.com

Director Environmental board6@simbithi.com

Director Simbithi Country Club board2@simbithi.com

John Gowans

Director Legal & Appeals board1@simbithi.com

The Board of Directors are your elected representatives who volunteer their time and expertise without remuneration.

Approaching a Director should be your last resort.

General

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