FEATUR ES 30 42 46
T HE A RT O F L E T T IN G GO T HE CUS TO D IA N S OF PA S S I O N T HE LA K E J OZ IN I E X P E RI E NC E
EQUESTRIAN
living
IS S UE 4 | AU G U ST 2 0 2 1
contents
P u b l i sh e r K-S t udio (P t y ) Ltd on beh alf of B lue H ills Eq u estr i a n E sta te
ISSUE 4 |AUGUST 2021
A d ve rti si n g S al es Tobia tobia@ k-st udio . co . za sales2@ k-st udio . co . za C alv in sales3@ k-st udio . co . za Ed i to r Tobia von Zwiet r i n g Copy w ri te r / p ro o f r eader C hantel Venter De si g n & La y o u t K-S t udio (P t y ) Ltd e tobia@ k-st udio . co . za t 082 962 82 5 5 f Kreat iefS t u d i o
07
FROM THE ESTATE M ANAGER
10
IM PORTANT INFORM ATION & CONTACTS
12
TOP 10 INDIGENOUS TREES TO PLANT
16
THINGS TO LOOK FOR W HEN CONSIDERING A SCHOOL
18
M AURITIUS IS REOPENING
YOUR M ATTRESS AN SUPPORT OCEAN 4-STAR MAURICIA CLEANUP
40
BEACHCOMBER
51
SAVE 40 - 45%
HOW TO CREATE A BEE FRIENDLY GARDEN THIS SPRING?
4-STAR SUPERIOR SHANDRANI BEACHCOMBER
Disclaimer: This e-Magazine is produced especially
for residents/owners of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate to
4-STAR CANONN BEACHCOMBE
4-STAR SUPERIOR V BEACHCOMBE
provide updates and useful information. It is produced by K-Studio on behalf of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of content, Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA and/or the Publisher, cannot be held liable for any inaccurate information, and may not agree with all opinions expressed in this publication.
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
We have super flexible booking terms for added mind – bank the saving with no accommodation c fee or monies payable in case you need to reboo
ALL PACKAGES INCLUDE: Return airport transfers Accommodation at the Beachcomber Resort of you Breakfast & dinner daily Land & motorized water-sports per brochure Valid for travel 1 - 31 October 2021 Ask us about our All-inclusive options and Rates for December!
Offers above are a guide only and will vary depending on departure date, our guide price is based on the cheapest departure within availability is correct at time of loading. Visas may be necessary and insurance is essential. Pentravel and Tour Operator terms and co found on our website. 40% off special is bookable by 20 August 2021. Offer can be removed at any time. Rates are subject to availab offer is not combinable with other offers, except if you qualify as our Repeat Guest. T&C’s apply. These packages are based on CASH
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
A Warm Welcome to the Plains of Africa Set against the backdrop of the magnificent Waterberg Mountain Range in the Limpopo Province. The exquisite beauty of its wide-open savannahs, Big 5 and spectacular vistas is an idyllic melting pot for a majestic wilderness destination. Within a couple hours’ drive from Gauteng, the extravagant haven that is Safari Plains will draw everyone who has experienced it to always return. Safari Plains redefines luxury in the bush, with a magnificent high–ceiling dining room, elegant lounge, impressive bar, and relaxing spa. KIDS ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMME The Safari Plains kids entertainment programme will keep children entertained for hours with activities that include: - Nature walks led by field guides as well as the Bumble Safaris. - Special treat for children during teatime. - Early dinner and movies with popcorn in the conference room. - Kids’ safaris after breakfast.
TEL: +27 (0)11 516 4367 | RES@EXTRAORDINARY.CO.ZA | WWW.SAFARIPLAINS.CO.ZA
READERS OFFER, RECEIVE A 25% DISCOUNT BY QUOTING BOOKING CODE: SAFARI25. T&C'S APPLY. 2021 • I SSUE 4 4
BLUEHILLS 7%OFF USE CODE ABOVE WHEN INQUIRING ABOUT A QUOTE
ABOUT US We are a robust furniture and design manufacturer family, based in Pretoria. We believe imperfections in nature are perfectly designed to give a more organic feel to the modern sense of lifestyle. Therefore, we sustain the natural look and feel of the wood we use to manufacture our furniture. All handmade pieces in our showroom are carefully selected for quality craftmanship, allowing us to provide you with a true investment for your home.
NEW TO OUR COLLECTION
LIGHOUSE FURNITURE
FEATURES - WOOD: SPRUCE & OAK - LEAD TIME: 4 - 6 WEEKS - CUSTOM SIZES AVAILABLE - UPHOLSTERY & LEATHER OPTIONS
@lig_house
@lighouse - furniture
sales@lighouse.co.za
No. 12, 19th Street, Menlo Park, Pretoria
www.lighouse.co.za
Gauteng, 0081
Call Us 5 ISSU • 20 216342 +27 71E 4431
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
2021 • I SSUE 4 6
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
From The
Estate Manager
Hello and welcome to our new homeowners. We hope that you are keeping warm during this bitter winter. We trust that you are safe, and you have taken the time to enjoy our beautiful estate even if its just for a brisk walk to enjoy some fresh, crisp air. Servest the landscaping company have started their annual tree pruning around the estate. They are almost complete with the grass cutting of vacant stands and will be spreading compost around the common area around the estate. Routine maintenance around the estate continues in conjunction with the winter plan for the estate. We have noticed that stands have been dumping grass cuttings among other items around the estate in the common area. Homeowners are requested to ensure that this does not continue and to ensure that grass cuttings and the like are disposed of responsibility. Speeding within the estate is still a huge concern despite the installation of the speed signage around the estate. Residents are reminded that this is a community and that we need to be mindful of those around us. Speeding puts those around us at great risk. The speed limit within the estate is strictly 40km per hour. Homeowners are also reminded that they are responsible for their visitors and contractors. Offenders will be penalised in accordance with the estate penalty schedule. Continued transgression of the estate guidelines
have resulted in contractors being escorted out of the estate and in some instances access even being denied in the interest of the safety at the estate. Security is an integral part of the estate and requires a holistic approach. Unfortunately, our guards are being abused for performing their duties which is unacceptable. Security works under certain protocols and any requests or arrangements that deviate from these protocols needs to be made via the appropriate channels. We appeal to homeowners to not vent your frustrations onto the guards and to please be mindful that the guards are acting upon instruction. You may contact the estate manager or the onsite control room to make the relevant arrangements timeously. I am happy to advise that the new biometric system has been installed and is currently operational at the main entrance at the estate. All homeowners are required to re-enroll for the system, to use the new readers. Homeowners and residents are invited for the enrollment at the office for the system. Due to COVID, I am assisting homeowners strictly on an appointment basis to limit the number of people in the office at a given time. Kindly contact me directly to arrange a suitable time so I may be able to assist you timeously. It is a quick process which should take approximately 3 minutes to complete. There has been several enquiries regarding the late building penalties for stands at the estate. As per the Special General Meeting held in February this 7 ISSU E 4 • 20 21
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
year, it was decided that the late building penalties will be applied as per the estate’s Memorandum of Incorporation (MOI). All homeowners received this when they purchased their stands at the estate. The MOI states that stands have 24 months to break ground from the date the stand has been transferred to the owner, the homeowner then has 24 months to complete their building. Should the stand not meet these stipulations then the stand is liable for a late building penalty. The updated MOI can be referenced for clarity. There are an increasing number of pets that have been found either roaming the estate or escaping their stands unaccompanied by owners. Owners must ensure that fencing is adequate to secure your pets within your properties and to take the necessary precautions when entering and exiting your property. It is the responsibility of pet owners to clean up after their pets in the common area. Stands are reminded that pets need to have identification tags on their collars. As construction continues in the estate, homeowners are requested to ensure that your contractors are aware of the rules of the estate. Homeowners are also requested to ensure that COVID-19 regulations are adhered to on stands at all times. Current Stats Stands Sold 144 Available Stands Total Stands 166 Percentage sold
22 87%
Building Stats Completed Stands 26 Under Construction 32 There are a few stands who have completed their construction but have not arranged for their Completion Certificates. Homeowners can contact Studious Architects to arrange for a final inspection of their property and to arrange for their Completion Certificate.
achieved when residents are able to use and enjoy their private property as well as the public areas of the estate amicably. General consideration and mutual respect by all residents for each other and their surroundings will greatly assist in achieving a happy community and a pleasant environment.
A friendly note, if you are not in possession of a Completion Certificate your stand is considered a Remember to sanitise, mask up and most importantly construction stand in terms of the estate and will still stay safe!!! be liable for a late building penalty. This still applies if you are living in your home and are in possession Kind regards of an Occupation Certificate from council.
Rashni Andhee-Shah
As a final note, we would like to remind residents that harmonious community living is only Estate Manager 2021 • I SSUE 4 8
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
THE NEW LAND ROVER DEFENDER
CATEGORY OF ONE
BOOK A TEST DRIVE The new Land Rover Defender is a 21st century update on a proven classic. Old favourites such as the rear-mounted spare wheel, the alpine lights and the side-opening tailgate have all been given the modern touch. Inside, resilience and purposeful lines run throughout. And of course there’s that famous silhouette, which is recognised the world over, as it travels the world over. Defender. An icon in a category of one. landrover.co.za
9 ISSU E 4 • 20 21
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
IMPORTANT INFORMATION & CONTACTS BLUE HILLS EQUESTRIAN ESTATE MANAGEMENT BODY The Blue Hills Equestrian Estate management body has been developed to ensure that should you have a query or wish to address anything on the Estate, we have a team of individuals you can refer your concerns to. This Committee goes beyond our monthly Directors’ Meetings, and is instead aimed at ensuring that the running of this Estate is handled with all due care.
ESTATE MANAGER Rashni Andhee-Shah 010 109 0935 083 703 9436 rashnia@trafalgar.co.za SALES MANAGER Musi Motsuenyane 082 806 1735 / musi@century.co.za SECURITY SITE MANAGER 076 771 9082/ 061 704 0111 Bluehills@thompsec.co.za EMERGENCY Eskom 086 0037 566 JHB Water 0860 562 874 Police 10111 Ambulance 10177 SPCA 011 265 9935 SNAKE CATCHER Mike 083 448 8854 2021 • I SSUE 4 1 0
THE BOARD IS MADE UP OF: • Andile Mtetwa • Jessica Hofmeyr • Joe Mahlangu • Nick Crow • Obakeng Mathibe • Ugesparan Govender THE COMMITTEE IS SUPPORTED BY TRAFALGAR WHO ARE REPRESENTED BY: • Michael Schaefer / Director of Trafalgar • Shahiem Carr / Director of Trafalgar • Jillian Hendricks / Estate Portfolio Manager • Rashni Andhee-Shah / Estate Manager • Head office support Birdhaven
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
11 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
GARDENING BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
TOP 10 INDIGENOUS
TREES TO PLANT
Written By: Glenice Ebedes
South Africa is home to a magnificent variety of indigenous trees and shrubs, and with a move by home owners towards the use of indigenous plants, it has become ever more important to choose species that will work in your home. Whilst many indigenous species are now being planted in gardens around Gauteng, not all of them are suitable for small gardens where walls, paving and house foundations need to be taken into account. Indeed, in my day to day consultations with clients I frequently come across gardens where incorrect species or incorrect planting techniques have been used, often leaving the home owner with costly expenses to fell problem trees or repair the damage to property. Even seemingly innocuous exotics such as palms and yuccas can become problems over time, either putting pressure on walls as their stems bulge, or dropping heavy fronds and seed pods which can break roof tiles! Fortunately there are some beautiful indigenous alternatives that are ideal for small gardens, so to help you along we’ve created a list of the top 10 indigenous trees for small gardens on the highveld, with a selection below this list of species that would also be worthwhile. Please note that the list is entirely subjective, and we’d welcome your feedback on the selection. Here are the criteria used to compile the list: 2021 • I SSUE 4 1 2
The tree should be used more often as a tree, rather than as a shrub. i.e. we’ve excluded species that regularly feature as trees in tree books, but which we prefer to utilise as shrubs for our landscaping clients, e.g. Mackaya Bella, Freylinia tropica. The tree should not be too slow growing. Slow growing species are ideal for low maintenance gardens, but we generally find that our clients prefer trees that will reach a respectable height in a reasonable time. Note however that the terms ‘fast’ and ‘slow’ in the context of trees are relative terms! Indigenous highveld trees usually grow at a rate of between half a metre to a metre in a year – patience is always required when growing trees. The tree should be moderately frost tolerant (although most trees should be protected from frost when they are young) The tree should have a non-aggressive root system. This is usually a critical factor when planting in a small garden, although we still recommend that all trees be planted at least 1-2 metres away from walls, foundations and paving. We specifically excluded trees that are usually planted for their structural appeal, such as Cussonia sp. and Aloe Barberae, the Tree Aloe (although both these species are also unsuitable for small gardens due to aggressive roots systems and bulging stems respectively.)
GARDENING BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
Please keep in mind that for very small gardens, e.g. 10 square metres or less, you may want to consider alternatives to the list povided, or to grow your trees in pots. Use the list as a guide and base your decisions on the spread and height that each species will eventually provide, and what your ultimate goal for your garden is.
Herewith are our top 10 indigenous trees for small gardens on the South African highveld:
Heteropyxis natalensis (Lavender Tree)
With its pale bark, beautiful shape, and semi-deciduous foliage, the Lavender Tree, Heteropyxis natalensis, is one of our favourite small garden trees. It has a very ornamental shape, and is an ideal replacement for the exotic Silver Birch or ubiquitous Leopard Tree (Caesalpinnea ferrea). Lavender Trees are slower growing than other species on this list, but with patience they offer the home owner a beautiful specimen for their gardens. In the wild they are frequently found on rocky hillsides, and in Gauteng some beautiful specimens exist in the Tweedespruit conservancy on the outskirts of Cullinan.
13 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
GARDENING BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
Buddleja saligna (False Olive)
branches are not as strong as other species, they often tend to droop after heavy rains, especially if The Buddleja saligna, False Olive, has become one they are carrying masses of white flowers. of the most popular indigenous trees in Gauteng, Despite these potential drawbacks this is still a and with good reason. At 1 – 1.5 metres growth per wonderful species to choose. Home owners should year it is one of the fastest growers on this list. The prune Buddlejas according to the shape they want benefit to the home owner is that this species can them to grow – in other words, cut away lower reach a height of 3 – 4 metres in just a few years, branches to encourage a tree shape. You can even thus providing excellent screening in the shortest shape it into a hedge if you have the plants at a possible time. However, being fast does have its young age, and an excellent example of this type of disadvantages. Sometimes the Buddleja can look pruning can be found in the Walter Sisulu Botanical a bit ‘scruffy’ after a few years, and because the Gardens:
See below links to other tree species, some not suitable for smaller gardens. source: www. groundedlandscaping.co.za If you allow it to grow into its natural form however you will be rewarded with masses of white flowers which attract a multitude of insects, and it’s not uncommon to see this plant covered in beetles, ants, butterflies and bees during the flowering season. Finally, do not confuse this species with its cousin the Wild Olive (Olea europeae subsp. africana). The latter is a much larger species and generally unsuitable for small gardens. 2021 • I SSUE 4 1 4
Dais Cotinifolia (Pompon Tree) Apodytes dimidiata (White pear) Pittosporum viridiflorum (Cheesewood) Dombeya rotundifolia (Wild pear) Indigofera jacunda (River Indigo) Heteromorpha arborescens var. abyssinica (Parsley Tree) Bolusanthus speciosus (Tree Wisteria) Olea europaea subsp. africana (Wild Olive) Vachellia/Senegalia (formerly Acacia) sp. Celtis africana (White Stinkwood)
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
15 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
?
Things to look for when considering a school Ask the tough questions
While academics are often seen as the hallmark of any good school, a pupil will not achieve to his or her potential unless they are encouraged, believed-in and supported. At the outset, you should look for a school that will nurture and care for your child as a first priority, one that meets your child where they are at and encourages growth of their whole selves. A good school, a school worthy of your child will have teachers that go beyond the terms of a contract of employment. They should be empathetic and passionate people that take on the education of your child as something honourable, exciting and challenging, and will strive to give of their best in growing each and every student in their charge. Here is a simple tip: When scheduling a visit to a prospective school, do so during their breaktimes. You can tell everything about a school from breaktimes: A snapshot of the sense of community; the way pupils engage with each other and their elders; and how happy, settled and included pupils are from how they act and behave when they are in the social times between lessons. Ask about the school’s support programme for the emotional wellbeing of the pupils. What systems do they have in place to provide for the pastoral care of the young people? Ask the Head taking the tour for a specific example of when he or she has made a decision that has put the wellbeing of a child as a matter of first priority. Ask the Head how they respond to teenagers who are programmed to challenge the system. Ask what they do specifically to ensure everyone feels welcome, everyone feels included, everyone feels supported and everyone feels deeply cared for. Most good schools will tell you about their academic performance and will showcase their top achievers and that is good. These pupils have done well. But what about the pupil who has improved their mark significantly and who has achieved a passing grade for the first time? What about the pupil who battles to make friends? What about the pupil who has a home life that is impossibly difficult? Schools are so much more than places of academics and sport. They are places where learning happens and where lives are shaped and grown. Come and talk to us at HeronBridge about the care we will take of your daughter or son. Come and ask us these difficult questions and have a listen to how we approach education in a way that is creative, affirming and heart-led. Come and listen to what it is that we do that allows us to provide an education second to none. By Simon Crane | Deputy Head, HeronBridge College
2021 • I SSUE 4 1 6
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
Celebrating 20 years of educating Grade 0000 - Matric with heart. At HeronBridge College we focus on a relational and intentional approach to schooling that lays a solid foundation for the growth and development of happy, well-rounded and confident human beings.
Grade 0000 - Matric Book a tour for a glimpse into what we mean 2022 Enrolments when we say "educating with heart." now open heronbridge.co.za
HeronBridge College is a Private, IEB, Christian school that focuses on growing and nurturing children to reach their full potential in all spheres of life. Our aim is to encourage our learners to grow into well-rounded, happy, and confident human beings that excel in the areas in which God has gifted them. From our Pre-Prep through to the College, our intention is to lay a solid foundation to equip children with the developmental, educational and social skills needed to navigate life. Our excellent curriculum is formulated to facilitate all aspects of learning in a way that makes sense to each child, which is often seen happening outside of a typical classroom environment. Long-term athletic development is the cornerstone of our sports programmes, and we are proud to have professional sportsmen and women on our coaching staff. We offer a dynamic array of on and off-stage arts and culture activities, as well as solid outreach and ministry programmes that encourage our children to do everything with heart. This year marks our 20th year of successfully providing high-quality education that is focused on shaping the heart and feeding the mind of each, individual child. If you would like to learn more about our intentional and heart-led approach to schooling, contact us on: Email: admissions@heronbridge.co.za Phone: 011 (540) 4800 WhatsApp: (079) 508 7436
visit www.heronbridge.co.za 17 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
ESTATE NEWS
Mauritius is Re-opening!
BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
Mark Twain was onto something when he described Mauritius as “heaven on earth.” The paradise of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is almost entirely circled by powder-white beaches, azure lagoons, and coral reefs. With the island also being a mere 4 hour flight from Joburg, and not requiring Visas for SA Passport holders, it’s also incredibly convenient. Mauritius is planning on opening their doors to fully covid vaccinated visitors by the 1st of October, which means your next Mauritius island holiday may soon be in reach. With a coastline stretching 330 km, you’re sure to find your place in the sun among these beaches in Mauritius!
Grand Baie is the perfect beach for you if you want easy access to facilities such as fresh juice stands, fast food stalls and beachside restaurants.
Grand Baie
As one of the longest beaches of Mauritius and known for its deep lagoon and powder-white sand, Belle Mare serves up an Instagram-worthy combination of colours. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to soak up the sun, Belle Mare is best visited on a weekday.
Trou aux Biches
Trou aux Biches is often referred to as the best beach in Mauritius for its sand quality, weather conditions and beachside facilities. The beach stretches about 2 km long and is protected by the coral reef, making Trou aux Biches an excellent spot for snorkelling.
www.pentravel.co.za 2021 • I SSUE 4 1 8
087 094 0011
Belle Mare
info@pentravel.co.za
TRAVEL BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
Le Morne Beach, with its white coral sand, clear waters and scattered trees set against the backdrop of Le Morne Mountain, is indeed an impressive sight. The perfect wind conditions almost all-year-round make this beach one of the top kite and windsurfing destinations in the world and a favourite spot for surfers. Whether it’s a family holiday you’re after or a romantic honeymoon in Mauritius, Beachcomber sets the benchmark for beach holidays. With eight of the island’s top resorts in its portfolio, Beachcomber is an ideal choice for visitors looking to experience upmarket, tropical island holidays in Mauritius.
Resort Pool
From Grand Baie and Blue Bay to Trou aux Biches and Pointe aux Canonniers, Beachcomber enjoys some of the best addresses in Mauritius. With eight luxury beachfront resorts from which to choose, how will you decide where to go? Easy! Trust the experts. Over 75% of Pentravel agents have experienced a holiday with Beachcomber, and we keep going back for more!
Port Louis
Le Morne Peninsular
All-inclusive is hot in demand among South African travellers and Beachcomber recognises this, offering all-inclusive options at all of its 4-star and some of its 5-star properties. By booking an all-inclusive beach holiday, you won’t have to waste sun and sand time making decisions as everything is planned in advance. Plus, everything is paid for in one go – no surprises lurking on the palm-fringed edges of your stay. Travelling with the Family? With facilities and activities that cater to your kids, no matter their age these resorts have so much on offer. Beachcomber features a Kids Club at each of their resorts: a safe place with a welltrained staff, where kids can enjoy a spacious playground. Some resorts even have a specially designated dining area for children, furnished with mini-me tables and chairs and lowered buffets, allowing them to help themselves!
Trou aux Biches
Get in touch with us today to plan your next beach holiday or check out our packages at https://www. pentravel.co.za/destination/mauritius 19 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
4-STAR MAURICIA BEACHCOMBER
SAVE 40 - 45%
4-STAR SUPERIOR SHANDRANI BEACHCOMBER
4-STAR CANONNIER BEACHCOMBER
4-STAR SUPERIOR VICTORIA BEACHCOMBER
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
We have super flexible booking terms for added peace of mind – bank the saving with no accommodation cancellation fee or monies payable in case you need to rebook! ALL PACKAGES INCLUDE: Return airport transfers Accommodation at the Beachcomber Resort of your choice Breakfast & dinner daily Land & motorized water-sports per brochure. Valid for travel 1 - 31 October 2021 Ask us about our All-inclusive options and Rates for December!
Offers above are a guide only and will vary depending on departure date, our guide price is based on the cheapest departure within the stipulated season and availability is correct at time of loading. Visas may be necessary and insurance is essential. Pentravel and Tour Operator terms and conditions apply, and may be found on our website. 40% off special is bookable by 20 August 2021. Offer can be removed at any time. Rates are subject to availability, rate of exchange. The offer is not combinable with other offers, except if you qualify as our Repeat Guest. T&C’s apply. These packages are based on CASH price. E&OE.
Contact us at any of our Joburg or Pretoria stores: Bedford (011) 607 9460 Clearwater (011) 675 7597 Cresta (011) 380 3700 East Rand Mall (011) 345 1860 2021 • I SSUE 4 2 0 Rosebank (011) 778 1100
Brooklyn (012) 346 8439 Centurion (012) 643 5340 Menlyn (012) 368 1202 Jo'burg Online (010) 880 0754
info@pentravel.co.za
087 095 0555
LIFESTYLE BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
p i l K Ou Game Lodge
OuKlip Game Lodge consists of fourteen luxury self-catering tent houses each able to accommodate 2-4 guests. OuKlip Game Lodge is unique in the sense that it is possible to
spot the Big 5 from your own tent and boma.
Map 2,8km
3,9km
OuKlip
Game Lodge was named after popular rock formations in the area. It is situated in the malaria free Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve which covers an area of more than 20000ha in total. The reserve is approximately 50km north of Pretoria next to the N1 near Hammanskraal. This privately owned eco-lodge will provide a memorable stay for tourists and families.
Discover comfort, personal attention and excellent value for money. It is perfect for getaways from the rush of city life. Enjoy an outdoor experience in beautiful indigenous bushveld that will help you relax and spend quality time with friends and family around a campfire under the cosmos of stars.
RUST DE WINTER RD HAMMANSKRAAL OFF RAMP EXIT 183
FISANT AVE
DE WAGENSDRIFT GRAVEL RD
lip OuK Game Lodge
GRA VEL
25km
PUMULANI TOLLGATE
N1 NORTH OF PRETORIA
GPS: 25°23'27.9"S 28°23'44.7"E
Telephone: 071 313 5380 / 082 476 6214 Email: info@ouklip.co.za Website: www.ouklip.co.za 21 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
2021 • I SSUE 4 2 2
LIFESTYLE BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
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23 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
2021 • I SSUE 4 2 4
DECOR BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
Choose the cover that’s right for you Installing a pool cover is not just for safety but offers added benefits to keeping your pool beautifully clean and ready for summer frolicking.
the mechanism can be covered. Advantages of this option includes quick turnaround on installation and easy maintenance.
Here’s a couple reasons why you should invest in a The PoolLock V5 Manual Easy Glide Safety Cover Designer Pool Cover today. is an improvement from any other manual system available on the market because the mechanism • ensures that the water evaporation is reduced to has a built-in gear (ratio 4:1). The cover is opened a minimum (by 80%) by using a crank handle which acts like a key and • your pool water heating cost is lowered it is removable – a great safety feature too! Closing considerably the cover is done by pulling a harness. This is • you save on chemicals (by 70%) the stepping stone to automation as this can be • maintenance and upkeep time is reduced upgraded at any given time as all we do is remove • the pool is ready to swim in at any time the mechanism and install the Hydraulic mechanism and powerpack. Our slatted covers are custom made to fit any size and shape pool: whether it’s indoor, outdoor, residential or commercial – you can choose from a wide variety of Poly-Carbonated or high-quality pvc slats, to ensure that the cover is integrated perfectly with your pool surroundings. The question is, which pool cover will be best for your pool?
Our GeoBubble Thermal Blankets are the most affordable option. Choose between Standard, Designer Pool Covers offer personalization and Sol+Guard or EnergyGuard variants. Easy to cut to integration of all automated, manual and safety fit any shape pool. pool covers. Whether you are looking for a Vinyl or Slatted pool cover, we have multiple options for you to choose from. Either a luxurious and comfortable automatic cover or the more affordable manual ones. You also have the option of installing the mechanism above ground (on existing pools) or below ground with new builds or with a small renovation. Our covers can accommodate most shapes, designs, and pool sizes with various colours to choose from. Pool covers can be planned during construction where a wet pit is incorporated to house the mechanism. A lid system (optional extra) is installed at one level to the surrounding surfaces of the pool giving you a neat finished look. Advantages of this Let Designer Pool Covers help you choose the option includes no obstructions around the pool cover that’s right for you. and does not interfere with the aesthetics of the pool. If you have an existing pool and don’t wish to have much work done around your pool, no worries. Tracks are installed parallel to each other down on top of your coping or decking and the mechanism sits finished level to the pool. The top (or flat) track can be used for this installation and 25 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
2021 • I SSUE 4 2 6
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
27 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
FOOD BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
Chickpea Pasta with
CASHEW CREAM SAUCE INGREDIENTS: • • • • • • • •
500 g wholegrain/red lentil fusilli pasta 1 red onion, chopped 1 red bell pepper, chopped 5 salad tomatoes, chopped 1 bunch fresh basil, chopped 1 avocado, diced 2 cups cooked or tinned and drained chickpeas Salt and pepper to taste
FOR THE DRESSING: • 1 cup cashews soaked in 1 cup cold water for at least 45 minutes (or up to 6 hours) • 1 - 2 cloves fresh garlic • 1 1/4 cup water (or more to desired consistency) • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast • 1/2 tsp onion powder • A pinch of salt
METHOD 1. Boil the pasta according to the package instructions. 2. In the meantime, chop up the fresh ingredients. 3. If you are using tinned chickpeas, drain and rinse the chickpeas. If cooked, remember to cook in advance. 4. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and put it in a large serving dish. 5. Add the chopped vegetables and the chickpeas to the pasta, along with the liquid from the chopped tomatoes and stir through. SA’s leading health retailer, Wellness Warehouse offers everything you need to live life well under one roof. Visit one of their 40 stores (and growing) nationwide or shop online to stock up on quality health supplements, organic and natural beauty products, real foods, eco home products and natural baby care, all offered with personal service and a 360° approach to health. 2021 • I SSUE 4 2 8 www.wellnesswarehouse.com
5. For the cashew sauce, drain the soaking cashews and rinse them thoroughly. Add the drained cashews to a blender along with the water, garlic, onion powder, nutritional yeast and salt and blend until a smooth sauce is formed. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add more liquid. 6. Pour the cashew cream sauce over the pasta right before serving. 7. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot or cold.
ESTATE WELLNESS NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
WELLNESS FOR ALL Come as you are, as you were, and all that you aspire to be… Wherever you are on your personal journey to natural wellbeing, we’d love to take the next step with you. Visit any of our 38 stores nationwide (and growing!), and a friendly Wellness Consultant will be happy to assist with your unique needs. Prefer to shop online? No problem, we’ll meet you where you’re at. WELLNESS SIMPLIFIED We believe in pure, natural goodness – plain and simple. We check the ingredients on each and every label so you don’t have to. Check out our Everyday Essentials, Bulk Buys, and own-brand ranges, where you’ll find the same uncompromising quality at a more affordable price. WELLNESS REWARDED We’re passionate about creating a community of South Africans who love to Live Life Well! Sign up to our Live Life Well Rewards programme in store or online, and you’ll enjoy access to rewards points with every purchase, plus plenty of exclusive offers and discounts. WELLNESS WHEREVER YOU ARE We believe that health is the truest form of wealth, and we’re here to help create a better South Africa – one healthy choice at a time!
Join us on the journey of living life well together…
www.wellnesswarehouse.com 29 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
WELLNESS
THE ART OF letting go
BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
By The real cause of the stress in our lives is not our perceived problems, but our mind’s incessant commentary about them. Why is this mental chatter so pervasive, and how do we learn to let it go? Our inner narration is really just our minds’ way of making us feel more comfortable with and in control of the world around us. If we experience something that doesn’t fit the model of the world as we’d like it to be, we internally verbalise, judge and complain about the disturbance. The mind is always trying to process our experiences in a way that makes them fit neatly into our views of the past and our dreams for the future, and what we end up experiencing is a mental model or presentation of the world, rather than the stark, unfiltered experience of reality itself. When it comes to managing stress and anxiety, there are few things more important than realising that you are not the voice in your head. You’re able to notice when you are thinking and judge the quality and content of your thoughts, so you must be distinct from them. You are the witness - the consciousness that notices the voice talking. Letting go of inner turmoil involves the conscious (and continuous) remembering of the fact that - no matter what the voice in your head has to say - it is still just a voice talking, and you (the real you!) are the one listening. 2021 • I SSUE 4 3 0
Step back and view it objectively. You don’t need to think about or change it - just notice it. Remember that you are the subject and your thoughts are the objects. After time you will come to realise that many of them have no relevance to the present moment. They are simply making you feel better or worse about the unfolding of reality. Most of us have become conditioned to leave our centre of objective awareness and get sucked into the energy of our thoughts and emotions at any given moment. When we concentrate on this mental chatter, it becomes charged with energy and power, growing in importance and demanding even more of our attention. Significant stress can be caused by a passing thought or emotion that somehow becomes the centre of our inner (and eventually outer) worlds. While you may feel that you wouldn’t struggle with anxiety-provoking mental chatter if you could just change things in the outside world, it’s safe to say that few have become truly at peace by simply rearranging their external circumstances. The mind will always find ‘the next problem’ to focus on. The real solution is to let go and take the seat of witness consciousness. Come to know yourself as the one who watches the inner voice that is never content. Watch yourself be anxious, without trying to analyse or fix it. Just be aware of what it going on inside, and remember that you are the one noticing both the events and
WELLNESS
the thoughts and emotions they evoke. When you feel your consciousness start to get drawn into a distressing thought or emotion, practise the art of letting the real you - the witness - take a step back and relax and release behind it. Relax your shoulders and the space around your heart, letting the disturbance simply come up and pass through you. It takes only a moment of conscious effort, and it will pass.
BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
This simple yet profound practice will get easier over time, and eventually you will spend most of your life comfortably seated in witness consciousness. Until then, play with the habit of letting go and falling behind the sense of being bothered. Just keep consciously choosing to no longer become involved in the melodrama of the mind. You will be pulled time and again, and each will be another opportunity to learn to relax and release. As you begin to find yourself living from this place of letting go, the stuff of the world that once bothered you will cease to be a problem. It will just be something you watch. It will keep changing, while you - the vast awareness behind it all - remain the same. Support your commitment to the spiritual practice of letting go by nurturing your body and soul with these anxiety-busting self-care rituals from Holistic Health and Wellness Coach Ashleigh Harrison:
Enhance your body’s ability to support you in letting go by nourishing yourself with a wholefoods-based diet. Avoid coffee and alcohol, and add powerful superfoods like maca, camu camu and cacao (if you’re not sensitive to its stimulating effect) as well as adaptogens such as ashwagandha and reishi (if you’re not experiencing autoimmune issues or taking blood thinners). Find exercise that’s right for you. This can be according to your body type, preference, energy levels or biological rhythms. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and finding exercise that you enjoy is the best way of making sure you move your body regularly to support the flexibility of your mind. Be on your soul’s side and learn to say no to people and places that don’t serve you. Take some time out for self-care. This can be anything you enjoy doing, whether it be going for a massage, taking a morning stroll, buying yourself flowers or staying in to apply a face mask and watch your favourite movie.
SA’s leading health retailer, Wellness Warehouse offers everything you need to live life well under one roof. Visit one of their 40 stores (and growing) nationwide or shop online to stock up on quality health supplements, organic and natural beauty products, real foods, eco home products and natural baby care, all offered with personal service and a 360° approach to health.
www.wellnesswarehouse.com 31 ISSU E 34 • 2 021
FINANCIAL BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
HOW TO
REHABILITATE YOUR CREDIT RECORD AS A TENANT How big is the problem? According to Shanaaz Trethewey, CEO of RentMaster, a rental cash flow and collection company with a 20-year track-record: “During 2020, the percentage of total tenants in good standing with their landlords dropped as would be expected. In the first quarter, pre-lockdown saw 81.52% in good standing. When Covid hit that number decreased to 73.5% and while we saw it gradually start to recover with 74.57% in the third and 77.61% in the 4th quarter, the scale of this drop and its impact on the rental income of landlords is undeniable.”
How does one’s credit record get affected and recorded? Shanaaz Trethewey, CEO of RentMaster
In the wake of the pandemic, many face the reality of their meticulous credit records being negatively affected by the whirlwind of last year’s economic instability. Landlords and tenants alike have been affected due to income loss, leading to missed bond payments, downsizing and, unfortunate, if unavoidable evictions. The challenge we now face is, what can we do? Is it possible to repair your credit record and get that dream rental home? Are your dreams of getting a bond in the future permanently dashed or can they be rescued? 2021 • I SSUE 4 3 2
It is problematic that to get a bond or rent a home, a good credit score is part of your evaluation and unavoidable, even if the circumstances you had were out of your control. Yet the payments that we make for many years diligently paying our monthly rent could simply not be recorded by many credit bureaus. There is a specialist rental payment credit bureau, called TPN, that records a tenant’s rental payment data and when combined with other consumer credit data – a more complete consumer profile can be seen. This means that if you pay your rent on time every time, it has the same positive impact on your credit record as any other credit transaction.
FINANCIAL BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
“That is why we integrated our debit order collection service into TPN’s lease management software called RentBook, which accurately and safely records how consistently you have paid,” says Trethewey. “This is why private landlords use us – they get the benefit of the rental collection process whilst their tenants have the benefit of payments being recorded.”
Here are Shanaaz’s unbreakable rules to rehab your credit record: Pay on time, every time. Accessing credit is extremely difficult once a credit provider sees a non-payment history. No service provider – financial or otherwise – wants to extend terms to a consumer that has been reported not to pay.
Remain within your means. Re-evaluating your affordability bracket and sticking to it can help remedy both your stress levels and your credit profile over time.
Communicate with your collection agent. Communicating if your income terms have changed immediately with your landlord and rental agents will allow them to adjust the invoicing and collection in a way that will help everyone cope with the change in a proactive and mutually positive manner. Ultimately it is about reaching realistic repayment terms and sticking to them.
Keep the administrative stress to a minimum. Using a debit order helps to take the manual time cost and process out of the payment cycle and helps ensure that you are not subject to interbank processing delays, which are out of your control, that may still land up on record.
Be transparent with your landlord. Trust is the foundation of all good relationships. Being honest, and consistent, in your agreement will prevent frustration down the line. Showing proof of income and surety, demonstrating your ability to live within your means and prioritising your rental by proactively communicating any issues, all assists in building transactional trust. The price of having a bad credit record is far more than financial, it is psychological. The debt collectors at RentMaster see it often. When people are desperate our agents encounter a range of emotions from rage to crying which fills them with empathy for their plight. The most challenging situations are when a tenant has avoided the inevitable and eviction has to take place. For us, it is terrible that it is often a situation which could have been completely diffused if they just engaged and reached an agreement with us sooner. Rehabilitating your credit record can make your life easier when dealing with service providers, decrease your psychological distress by eliminating the fear of collection calls and creditors give you financial freedom and allow you to continue with your life, knowing that the essentials are taken care of. Limiting your ability to access a good home or access credit for a vehicle or shortterm credit can significantly impact you. Avoidance is definitely not the solution, it escalates the situation, and this just makes it worse and more challenging to rehabilitate your credit in the longer run.
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DECOR MOTORING BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
All-new McLaren Artura High-Performance Hybrid powertrain sets new supercar standards; amplifies McLaren driving experience
• High-Performance Hybrid powertrain of McLaren Artura sets new standards for the supercar sector • All-new, ultra-compact 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine with unique 120-degree ‘hot vee’ configuration • Lightweight, compact Axial Flux E-motor enhances driving experience with torque in-fill, as well as providing option of zero-emissions, electric-only running for up to 30km* • Compact hybrid battery uses liquid cooling technologies developed for the McLaren Speedtail • Artura acceleration figures now confirmed as 0-100km/h in 3.0 seconds, 0-200km/h in 8.3 seconds and 0-300km/h in 21.5 seconds, with standing ¼ mile in 10.7 seconds • Artura comes with comprehensive warranty package of 5-year vehicle and 6-year hybrid battery as standard, plus 3-year service plan**
High-Performance Hybrid powertrain in the McLaren Artura sets new benchmarks for performance, building on the levels of high-performance hybrid excellence set by the pioneering McLaren P1TM – the world’s first hybrid hypercar – and the Speedtail Hyper-GT. The Artura’s advanced petrol-electric powertrain delivers an unrivalled combination of throttleresponse, acceleration and electric-only, zeroemissions capability. It has been engineered to ensure the all-new McLaren supercar excels across the full spectrum of driving experiences, from everyday urban journeys to track day sessions.
“
The McLaren Artura’s all-new, superlightweight electrified powertrain is at the cutting-edge of high-performance-hybrid technology, engineered to offer all of the With acceleration figures now verified, the all-new advantages of internal combustion and 2021 • I SSUE 4 3 4
electric power in one package and establish new benchmarks for combined performance and efficiency in the supercar class. The ‘clean-sheet’ design of the Artura has allowed us to focus on how to make this power accessible to the driver and deliver the levels of engagement expected from a McLaren.
”
Geoff Grose, Chief Engineer, McLaren Automotive
MOTORING height of the crankshaft and therefore the centre of BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e gravity of the car. The wide angle of the V6 cylinders allows the turbochargers to sit within the banks in a ‘hot vee’ configuration, which also benefits efficiency as they sit within a straighter - and therefore less restrictive – exhaust layout. Generating 585PS and 585Nm of torque, the all-new V6 engine is 190mm shorter and 220mm narrower than McLaren’s twinturbo 4.0-litre V8 – and also 50kg lighter.
While the configuration of the all-new engine is Minimising weight was key to the design of the key to the Artura’s powertrain packaging, it is the all-new powertrain. This is hugely important in an innovative technology within that provides the electrified supercar, as well as being absolutely biggest gains in lightweighting and performance. aligned with McLaren’s philosophy of super- The cylinder head and block utilise 3D printed cores, lightweight engineering that is fundamental to the allowing uncompromised precision cooling, including performance, agility and driver engagement inherent a micro-compact 2mm cooling passage between the cylinders. The block has directly coated parent bores in every McLaren. rather than separate coated liners, into which fuel is Breaking with the V8 convention established with the injected at 350bar pressure. first supercar from McLaren Automotive, the 12C, at the heart of the Artura is an all-new, 3.0-litre V6 The Artura’s V6 engine is designed not just for internal combustion engine. The 120-degree, twin- compact packaging and efficiency, but also to turbocharged M630 unit not only delivers unrivalled increase driver engagement. Shared crank pins performance, it also allows the most compact enable a very short and stiff crankshaft that allows packaging possible. A 180-degree angle was the M630 to redline at a thrilling 8500rpm. It’s also considered but dismissed because it would raise the a very refined engine, designed with the chain drive at the rear and with ancillary noises reduced so that
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the occupants only hear the V6’s distinctive intake and exhaust note, routed via Gasoline Particulate Filters to reduce emissions†. The V6 engine powers the rear wheels via an allnew eight-speed seamless shift transmission that has also been design for optimised packaging. The length of the gear cluster has been reduced by 40mm, helped by use of a nested clutch rather than a parallel unit and also the removal of a reverse gear, this function now achieved by the Artura’s E-motor spinning in the opposite direction. The ultra-compact motor is fully integrated within the transmission bell-housing, delivering torque in-fill and linear acceleration via an E-differential to the rear wheels. The Axial Flux design of the E-motor is another Artura benchmark. It is similar in size to a McLaren brake disc and at just 15.4kg it is only a little heavier than a conventional iron rotor component, yet it can generate up to 95PS and 225Nm as well as enable journeys of up to 30 kilometres in near-silent pure EV mode* , attributes that are ideal for city driving or early-morning starts. Providing the electric-only capability is a 7.4kWh Five-module Lithium Ion energy dense battery pack. Fully-integrated into the Artura’s McLaren Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) chassis, the battery pack is positioned low-down in the car behind the driver, incorporated into the floor and protected on three sides by the main carbon fibre structure and from behind by the engine. This positioning also helps to optimise both centre of gravity and the polar moment of inertia, benefitting dynamic agility. The hybrid battery sits on a cooling manifold, which is shared with the new electric heating, ventilation and air conditioning system also used to control air temperature in the cabin. Incorporating technology first developed for the McLaren Speedtail, the batteries are thermally controlled using dielectric oil – a technology also used to keep the E-motor at operating temperatures that deliver the highest level of performance. True to the Artura engineers’ determination to optimise packaging and weight, the battery management unit sits alongside the modules, with the power distribution unit (PDU) integrated into the battery. An integrated Power Unit (IPU) acts as a DC/DC converter for the vehicle’s 12v system, further reducing weight by removing the need for a 2021 • I SSUE 4 3 6
separate alternator and on-board battery-charger. Taking just 2.5 hours to charge from zero to 80% using an EVSE socket, the battery is carefully managed so that it never truly runs out of power; there is always something in reserve for reversing or starting the engine, even when parked for extended periods. This management process also ensures that the battery remains in peak condition and accordingly the unit is warranted for 6 years or 75,000km. An Artura driver can adjust how the electric motor is deployed to prioritise range or power, or choose to shut off the internal combustion engine for silent running. Energy harvesting is achieved purely from the combustion engine in order to maintain brake pedal feel, yet the battery can be charged from low to 80% full within minutes under normal driving conditions. This ensures that the Artura is always ready to switch to electric-only mode, an option that adds discretion and enhanced economy to the driving experience, as well as reduced CO2 emissions at just 129 g/km*. Additionally, the Artura’s High-Performance Hybrid powertrain contributes to significant ownership benefits above and beyond the performance and driving engagement it delivers: a comprehensive 5-year vehicle and 6-year hybrid battery warranty are standard for Artura customers, as is a 3-year service plan. McLaren Artura Validated Performance Figures 97km/h (0-60mph) 0-100km/h (0-62mph) 0-200km/h (0-124mph) 0-300km/h (0-186mph) ¼ mile Maximum speed (electronically limited) 3.0 seconds 3.0 seconds 8.3 seconds 21.5 seconds 10.7 seconds 330km/h (205 mph) ______________ *Emissions and fuel economy are still to be validated **Service plan not in United States; additional cost in China †According to local legislation requirements
MOTORING BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
THE FULL FORCE OF McLAREN.
PRE-ORDERS NOW OPEN McLaren Johannesburg 011-301-7000 Shop 1 & 2 One on Whiteley, Whiteley Road, Melrose Arch, Johannesburg Ramon Saffy - ramon@daytona.co.za – 061-314-8990 Grant Baben - grant.b@daytona.co.za – 082-233-5424 Estimated fuel consumption combined: 5.6l/100km | Estimated CO2 emissions combined: 129g/km. These figures will be updated once final testing figures have been confirmed. For our emissions statement please go to cars.mclaren.com
johannesburg.mclaren.com/en 37 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
Kyalami Schools (NPC)
VISIT US ONLINE
TO FIND OUT MORE OR BOOK A CAMPUS TOUR
Beaulieu Preparatory and Nursery School
Preparatory and Nursery School
BEST CHOICE FOUNDATION PHASE
www.beaulieucollege.org
www.kyalamiprep.org
www.beaulieuprep.org
Grade 8 - 12
Grade 000 - 7
Grade 000 - 7
www.kyalamischools.org
ADMISSIONS OPEN FOR 2021 | 2022 | 2023 admissions@kyalamischools.org | 010 591 5004 2021 • I SSUE 4 3 8
‘The client’s brief and aspirations are the core of our design ideas. This, together with our design experience and input sets up a harmonious working relationship with the client throughout the design process. This is all capped with the excitement one sees on the client’s face as their dream becomes a reality on the building site’ - Paul Sduduzo Mtwa
Architecture - HIGH-END LUXURY HOMES - PUBLIC BUILDINGS - THREE DIMENSIONAL MODELLING (EXPERIENCE THE BUILDING BEFORE GOING TO SITE) - COMPLIANCE WITH ALL STATUTORY BODIES - WE ARE CURRENTLY WORKING ON 6 PROPERTIES IN BLUE HILLS COUNTRY ESTATE. AS SHOWN
Construction Management - ASSIST THE CLIENT IN SELECTING A CAPABLE BUILDING CONTRACTOR - ENSURING THE IMPLEMANTATION OF THE DESIGN ON THE BUILDING SITE - LIASON WITH ALL CONSULTANTS INVOLVED - SYNCHRONIZATION OF ALL SUPPLIERS AND SUB-CONTRACTORS
Inquiries: design@mtwa.co.za www.mtwa.co.za +27 72 252 6369 18 Riverbend lane Beverly ext 64 Johannesburg
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LIFESTYLE BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
YOUR MATTRESS CAN SUPPORT OCEAN CLEAN-UP
Plastic is something most people use every day. From packaging to vehicle and public transport components, kitchen utensils and household furnishings, plastic is all around us in our daily lives. However, disposable plastics have come under the spotlight for the problems they can cause when they end up in oceans, causing damage to marine life. At Restonic South Africa, we are always looking for ways to make our business more environmentally friendly and to be part of the solution rather than the problem. We’re very proud to introduce Seaqual™ textiles in our new premium range of idream beds. Seaqual™ Initiative is a unique collaborative community fighting plastic pollution – a community of individuals, organisations and companies working together to help clean our oceans, raise awareness of the issue of marine litter and highlight those helping to fight it. Seaqual™ Initiative works with ocean clean-ups around the world to bring value to the waste that they recover. How it works Plastic waste is collected by 1 500 fishermen, who bring the garbage they collect as they fish ashore with them. Every day, 400 boats retrieve a tonne of waste and 100% of this garbage gets recycled. Seaqual™ pays the fishermen to collect garbage and bring it ashore. Each material goes to its own unique recycling chain. Textile technology enables us to upcycle ocean plastics to new yarns. At idream beds, we turn some of the plastics collected from the sea into high quality, sustainable polyester fibres. In partnership with SeaqualTM, every iDream queen mattress we produce that contains Seaqual™ fabric helps pull 50 plastic water bottles from our oceans.
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Source: https://idreambeds.com/blog/
MOTORING BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
The Custodians of Passion Quoin Rock has deep, historic roots but 2012 signalled a new era. Under the custodianship of the Gaiduk family have transformed the old estate and invested in restoring its astounding 200 hectares. Approaching the estate on a winding road through canopies of trees in the Knorhoek Valley, quite suddenly you are there, the Simonsberg mountains and endless rolling vineyards. The driveway is an extended wall of pale pink roses, the ancient varietal revelling in the Stellenbosch heat. Pink, cerise, scarlet, white, lilac, apricot and butter yellow pop against the vineyard greens. The family patriarch, Vitaly Gaiduk’s passion for the rose – second only his passion for exceptional wine – is evident everywhere. Harvesting the magnificent grapes of the terroir, Quoin Rock offers its own exclusive wine range complete with Shiraz, Red Blend, White Blend, 2021 • I SSUE 4 4 2
Chardonnay as well as MCC Black Series – recently awarded the international Decanter Award – and finally, a limited edition blanc de blanc. Namysto is our lifestyle wine and perfectly complements any setting, from casual to intimate dining. Visit our online shop to explore the full range of our exclusive collections. Our grounds are also home to our world class restaurant, Gåte, pronounced ‘gah-tey’, has a Norwegian origin and translates to ‘the entrance of a labyrinth’ or a ‘riddle’, symbolising a gateway to an extraordinary dining experience and a delightful puzzle to be decoded. Gåte provides an intimate and inspiring fine dining experience full of daring culinary pursuits as our chefs Jack and Paul elevate
LIFESTYLE
the oeuvre of South African cuisine and produce nostalgic favourites with a delicious twist.
BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
We also offer an al fresco culinary experience with our delicious picnics filled with local harvests and paired with our delicious wine. Picnic packages range from light to robust with plenty for kids to enjoy too! Visit our magnificent region where you will surely rest and replenish at our Knorhoek farm where you will wake up to the astounding natural heritage of this 300-year old wine farm. Whether you opt for our elegant yet rustic country accommodation or lustrous self-catering cottages, we offer daily breakfast spreads to set you up for birdwatching, discovering the land by foot, or taking a dip in the summer rock pool. Round off the day with a unique and superb wine-tasting service and taste the terroir that has welcomed you on your stay. Planning an event? The Manor House is a vision to behold with its emblematic Cape Dutch architecture swathed in vineyards and peppered with bougainvillaea gardens. It’s no wonder the grounds have often been likened to Alice in Wonderful as its dreamy beauty is almost surreal and intoxicates its visitors. Fit for special occasions, The Manor House is perfect for weddings and we welcome enquiries and potential bookings. Have we convinced you yet? If you’re still on the fence, pay us a visit. We are sure we can win you over. www.quoinrock.co.za
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LIFESTYLE BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
2021 • I SSUE 4 4 4
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
STELLENBOSCH WINE ESTATE
quoinrock.co.za| @quoinrock | +27.21.888 4740 | Knorhoek Road, Stellenbosch, South Africa 45 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
The Lake Jozini Experience Experience the first Houseboats in South Africa - the only ones of their kind. Onboard Shayamanzi Houseboats, soak up the stunning scenery of the Lebombo Mountains and superb wildlife of the Pongola Game Reserve on the shores of Lake Jozini (also known as Pongolapoort Dam). Enjoy the calm serenity of the open Lake Jozini waters, the thrill of Tiger Fishing or the adventure of Mountain Biking in the heart of the Zululand bushveld! Shayamanzi is about taking time out to appreciate Africa’s special wonders.
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TRAVEL BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
“T h e w h i n i n g r e e l b rea ks the si l ence as yo u r f i s h i n g r o d be n d s to th e l i mi t. Then t h e s p e c t a c u l a r col ou rs of a ta i l w alking ‘t ig e r ’ l i g h t u p th e w ate r su rface, an e xp e r i e n c e t h at ne i the r th e no vi c e nor a vid a n g l e r w i l l forge t.” - R og e r B l evin T I G E R F I SH I N G Lake Jozini is the only water in South Africa where you find the ferocious fighting Tiger Fish, an African game fish, which thrills you as it jumps out the water, throwing its head from side to side trying to get off your line. “T h e Ti g e r F i s h … A fri ca’s Ga me Fish” The guide dresses your trace up with a fish you would have been glad to have caught back home and calls it “bait”. You ask him what size Tiger Fish he’s expecting to eat that, and he replies with a dead pan face “Don’t worry we’ll try for the larger ones this afternoon.” The Tiger Fish is a fierce and wild creature that demands respect from all forms of life that may happen across its path. The Tiger Fish is regarded by most as being the best freshwater game fish in Africa. P O NG O L A G A M E R E S E RV E WIL DLIFE Lake Jozini is surrounded by the Pongola Game Reserve and Pongolo Nature Reserve, which provide spectacular game viewing from the water’s edge. The Pongola Reserves are teaming with a large variety of wildlife which can be viewed from the Shayamanzi Houseboat’s decks or tender boats.
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TR AVEL BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
L AK E J O Z I N I , H OME O F S H AYA MANZI H O U SE B O AT S
in herds from Shayamanzi’s decks: White and Black Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo, Hippo, Crocodile, Wildebeest, Giraffe, Zebra, Kudu, A Shayamanzi Houseboats cruise begins from Nyala, Bushbuck, Mountain Reedbuck, Common the spectacular Jozini Tiger Lodge which is Reedbuck, Red Duiker, Grey Duiker, Waterbuck, situated along the banks of the picturesque Jozini Steenbuck, Suni Antelope, Black Backed Jackal, dam near Pongola in Northern KwaZulu-Natal. Hyena, Cheetah, Wild Dog, Cerval Cat, Warthog, Situated in the heart of the ‘Kingdom of the Zulu’ Bushpig, Banded Mongoose, Legavaan, Terrapin with its rich heritage and untamed natural beauty, and the occasional sighting of Leopard which Lake Jozini is an exciting holiday destination roam the slopes of the Lebombo Mountain offering a perfect luxury getaway in the heart of Range. nature. The muddy plains and reed banks provide The Pongola River enters in the Northern area of excellent breeding grounds for the waterbirds Lake Jozini and is the only water source feeding which can be seen in thousands – Whistling the Lake. This is a particularly good fishing spot Duck, Yellowbilled Storks, Spurwing and with the extreme Northern tip creeping into Egyptian Geese, Commorants, various Herons, Swaziland, with the rest of the Northern area and Kingfishers, and several Fish Eagles. the entire Western and Southern banks being bordered by the Pongola Nature Reserve and the Along the entire Western bank is the magnificent Pongola Game Reserve. Lebombo Mountain Range. One of the evening anchorages may be a night in the Gorge. Here T YP I C A L R O UT E S the Mountains rise either side of you, covered in indigenous cycads and ferns and where the glo-flies make a spectacular show along the • Day 1: Tiger Lodge to Hippo Bay. shoreline. • Day 2: Hippo Bay to Nkwazi Bay. • Day 3: Nkwazi Bay to Tiger Lodge. Other overnight anchorages are in the River and The Game Reserves surrounding Lake Jozini at Mosquito Bay; both great fishing areas and host many animal species which can be seen very well positioned for game viewing.
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TRAVEL BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
W HAT TO E X P E C T ON B OA R D S HAYA M A N Z I • A uniquely memorable experience enjoying the best of nature from the luxury of our houseboats while cruising across the 16 000 hectares of open water. • Excellent Game Viewing and Bird Watching especially in the early morning and late afternoon. You might be fortunate to see black or white rhino, elephant, giraffe, zebra, hippo, crocodile, warthog, buck, a variety of bird life or the fireflies when you are moored in the gorge at night. This is truly a Birders Paradise with over 400 species. • Tiger fishing, in the river and gorge. • A crew who will take care of your every need. • The most delicious meals and snacks with bottomless tea and coffee served throughout the day. • A festive bar and great music for all tastes. • Weather dependent, an evening of drinks on the lakeside around a bonfire. • A real South African braai (barbeque) on the aft deck under the starlit African skies. • A jacuzzi, fantastic opportunities for photography, conferencing or relaxing! • Diverse scenery and landscaping including; the Lebombo Mountains, Swaziland, the Pongola River.
• Historical richness - The Lebombo Mountains are home to Dingaan’s Grave and Border Cave; a Middle Stone Age site. • All of our cabins have fans and in the upper cabins there are extra length beds. The cabins on Shayamanzi ll are all air-conditioned. HOW TO M AKE A BOOKING? • Bookings are made per boat charter, from 6 passengers to 32 passengers if hiring both boats. • Bookings are also available for couples or smaller parties on non-exclusive trips. The cruise is guaranteed only with a minimum of 6 passengers. • We suggest a minimum of a 2 night stay but the ideal number of nights are 3. • Our cruises are great for family fun and are best suited to children over the age of 5 years. • A dietary requirement and a preferred drinks list will be sent to you on reservation so that we may cater to your specific requirements.
BOOK NOW visit our website https://www.shayamanzi.co.za/
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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
2021 • I SSUE 4 5 0
ENVIRONMENT ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
How to create a Bee friendly garden this
Spring?
The bee’s knees. A bee in your bonnet. As busy as a bee. Buzz. For such a small insect the bee has inspired quite a number of popular sayings. And rightly so. Irrespective of the painful or (for those with an allergy) deadly sting, the bee is an important facet of food security ensuring the pollination of 70% of the world’s crops.
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ENVIRONMENT BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
Over the past decade, bee colonies across the world have dropped between 30 and 70% due to industrialisation, pesticides, climate change and disease. In the Western Cape alone the drought and wildfires have caused the Province to lose 40% of its honeybees. Each and every one of us can help protect and promote bee colonies by simply creating a bee-friendly garden.
H O W TO C REATE A BEEFR I END LY GARDEN: Step 1: Remove invasive plants from your garden. Step 2: Plant a variety of colourful indigenous plants. Bees like diversity, and prefer plants with blue, yellow and purple flowers that carry a floral scent. Plant several of each type together. Step 3: Choose plants that bloom at different times of the year. Step 4: Only use natural pesticides. Step 5: Create a drinking bath for bees by using a shallow container, dropping in a few stones and adding enough water that would evaporate by the end of the day. Fill daily with fresh water.
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ENVIRONMENT BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
T Y PE S O F T REES, PLANTS AND H E R BS TO PLANT Tr ee s:
• Karee • Sweet thorn • Bush willow • Tree fuchsia • Weeping wattle
P l a nt s:
• Aloes • Clivia • Felicia • Euryops daisy • Cape violets • Agapanthus • Gazania • Asparagus fern • Lavender
dropped drastically this year. • The country imports a further 1000t of honey per year. • Bees help pollinate a R20-billion food crop industry in SA, which consists of deciduous fruit, oilseed harvests, vegetables and fodder plants. • Creating a bee-friendly garden won’t only benefit honeybees but also other native bee species, such as the South African Carpenter bee, and other pollinators including butterflies and beetles.
G O T STUNG BY A BEE?
Home remedies. Nobody likes to get stung by a bee but did you know there are some common household grocery items you can apply to lessen the pain?
• • I f y ou don’ t h a v e a l o t o f s pa c e • yo ur h er b gar d e n c a n s t i l l a t tra c t b ees. P l ant: • Thyme • Rosemary • Mint • Chives • Fennel • Oregano
Honey – Apply honey to the area and cover with a plaster. Baking soda – Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply. Apple cider vinegar – Add vinegar to a large enough container/dish so as to soak the affected area.
Click here to read about the plant to rescue South Africa’s Bees.
DID Y OU KN OW? • In South Africa we have two subspecies of honeybees namely the African bee and the Cape bee. As its name suggest the Cape bee keeps to the more southern parts of the country, whereas you’ll find the African bee more to the north, like here in Gauteng. • The African bee is a brighter yellow and produces larger crops of honey than the Cape bee. • South Africa normally produces an average of 2000t of honey annually. This number has 53 ISSU E 4 • 2 021
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E qu e strian Estate
JAGUAR I-PACE
I’VE GOT THE POWER TO ELECTRIFY YOUR LIFESTYLE
BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE Combining short charging with long range and the performance Jaguar is renowned for, the all-electric I-PACE has the power to change your life. Contact us to book your test drive and we’ll customise and extraordinary finance offer for you. jaguar.co.za
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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
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