Lombardy Estate | April 2024

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GET IN T UCH

Here is a compilation of contact information for your reference. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us; we encourage you to get in touch.

HOA OFFICE

HOA Office

012 809 0903

General Manager

Carli Steenberg

EXT 2002

gm@lombardyestate.co.za

Reception & General Queries

Marichen Booysen

EXT 2000

office@lombardyestate.co.za

Building plans & Compliance

Sue Anne Van den Berg

EXT 2003

admin@lombardyestate.co.za

SECURITY

Control Room

087 654 4822

Supervisor 082 462 2977

Security Manager

Christo Venter 066 479 8510

security@lombardyestate.co.za

OPERATIONAL

Operational Manager

Christo Smit: 066 479 6874

ops@lombardyestate.co.za

Maintenance Manager

Martin Locke 067 355 4491

maintenance@lombardyestate.co.za

FINANCIAL

Levy Queries: MidCity (012) 426 3400 Ext: 3495 / angelique.botha@midcity.co.za / Heintjie.serfontein@midcity.co.za

Letter from the MANAGER

As the leaves turn and we welcome the cooler embrace of the approaching season, “The Insider,” our estate’s digital magazine, is here to keep you connected with the pulse of Lombardy Estate. This issue is packed with crucial updates and heartfelt narratives that define our community.

AGM:

A heartfelt thank you to all our members who attended the AGM on 24 February 2024 and the information session held on 17 February 2024.

Mid City is in the process of finalising the minutes of the meeting and all rule changes and new policies will be registered with CSOS once the minutes have been concluded.

I can however confirm that our ordinary resolutions were approved by majority vote and the special resolution relating to our new credit control policy has been adopted.

The special resolution on the MOI changes were however not approved due to the fact that the developer voted against all suggested changes with their majority vote.

Members will receive a copy of the minutes once finalised.

The 2024 AGM will be scheduled later in this year.

Storm damage:

Following a major storm on Saturday evening, 17 February saw our tennis court badly damaged amongst fallen trees, and damaged security infrastructure to name a few of the damages. The estate responded by arranging a cleanup crew for the Saturday, 18 Feb and we are extremely thankful to our crew who have worked hard to clean up our estate – all damaged security infrastructure was repaired immediately and we are now waiting for feedback from our insurers on the tennis court and other damages. Unfortunately, this has taken longer than we like due to extensive storm destruction all over Gauteng, insurance assessors have had their hands full but there is light at the end of the tunnel and we hope to have our tennis courts and other infrastructure in tip top shape as soon as possible.

Levy payments:

I want to call on all members to ensure that their levies are paid in full and up to date every month - in the same breath, please ensure that the correct reference number is used (reference numbers can be obtained from your Mid-City levy account / statement) when making payment to Mid City’s new bank account. We still have approximately 50 members paying into the HOA’s FNB account, and this makes allocating payments correctly difficult resulting in interest being charged unnecessarily on your levy account.

Please note that Mid City has taken over the Financial Management of the estate, so al levy related matters can be referred to Heintjie Serfontein Heintjie.Serfontein@midcity.co.za and/or Angelique Botha Angelique.Botha@ midcity.co.za - the HOA is still here to help with day to day queries.

REFUSE REMOVAL:

Members who have a second or third refuse bin will notice a slight increase in cost as from April 2024 and this is due to the fact that the waste removal company, Bi-Waste has had to deal with rising fuel prices and staff increases which has had an affect on the removal costs of all refuse bins.

Please also take special care to ensure no rubble or garden waste is placed in your household refuse bin as this will not be removed and that all rubbish is placed and secured in refuse bags. Should you require a garden waste bin, please reach out to: admin@lombardyestate.co.za. Removal of card board boxes must please be arranged beforehand.

SAYING FAREWELL TO A DEAR FRIEND:

It is with great sadness that we report that our HOA veteran Mrs. Anne Marie Ungerer who has been the estate’s financial administrator for over eleven years is finally closing her office door after years of loyal service to Lombardy Estate on Friday, 29 March 2024.

Anne Marie was initially employed by the developer, Lombardy Developments Pty Ltd until she later joined the HOA team where her skills (and patience with members) was put to

the test on the daily! Some of you may have received very colourful statements in the past where she gently pointed out payments - or the lack thereof on a levy statement with bold highlight markers and was always willing to assist and help us understand.

Anne Marie will be remembered for being an extremely thorough financial fundi with an eagle eye for numbers, razor sharp wit, and someone who will always be a “bok vir sports”

She will be truly missed and we thank her for her years of diligent service and wish her well in this next chapter of her life.

Nurturing Immunity Nurturing Immunity

The Vital Role of Soil Play for Children

In the modern era, where concrete jungles dominate landscapes and screens captivate young minds, the call of the wild often goes unheard. Yet, amidst our urbanized and technology-driven world, lies an essential component of childhood that is increasingly overlooked: soil play. Beyond its mere messiness, soil holds a treasure trove of benefits, particularly when it comes to bolstering children’s immunity.

In recent years, concerns about immune-related disorders have been on the rise. From allergies to autoimmune conditions, the delicate balance between immunity and the microbiome has come under scrutiny. The microbiome, an intricate ecosystem of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms, colonizes various parts of the body, with the gut being of primary importance. This microbial community plays a pivotal role in training and modulating the immune system, ensuring its ability to differentiate between harmless and harmful invaders.

Amidst this backdrop, the significance of soil play emerges as a natural solution. Encouraging

children to reconnect with nature not only fosters a sense of wonder and exploration but also exposes them to the diverse microbial ecosystem found in soil. Unlike the sterile environments often associated with urban living, soil teems with life, offering a rich array of microorganisms crucial for immune resilience.

When children immerse themselves in soil play, they unwittingly expose themselves to a myriad of beneficial microbes. From harmless bacteria to beneficial fungi, these microorganisms interact with the child’s immune system, helping to strengthen its response mechanisms. Studies have shown that early exposure to a diverse range of microbes can have long-lasting effects on immune health, reducing the risk of allergies, asthma, and other immune-related conditions later in life.

Furthermore, soil play provides children with an opportunity for unstructured outdoor play, a rarity in today’s structured world. In the freedom of the outdoors, children engage in physical activity, hone their motor skills, and develop a sense of independence. This type of play not only

promotes physical health but also enhances mental well-being, fostering creativity, resilience, and problem-solving skills.

As parents and caregivers, it is imperative to recognize the importance of soil play in nurturing children’s immunity. Instead of shying away from dirt and germs, we should embrace them as essential elements of a child’s development. By encouraging outdoor exploration and allowing children the freedom to get dirty, we are laying the foundation for robust immune systems and lifelong health.

Incorporating soil play into children’s daily routines doesn’t have to be complicated. Something as simple as a backyard garden, a patch of dirt at the park, or a designated mud pit can provide ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.

As children dig, plant, and play in the soil, they are not just getting dirty—they are fortifying their immune systems and building a stronger connection to the natural world.

In conclusion, amidst our busy lives and technology-driven society, it is essential to prioritize the simple joys of childhood, including soil play. By allowing children the freedom to engage with nature and get their hands dirty, we are not only fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity but also nurturing their immune resilience. In the battle against immune-related disorders, soil may just be the unsung hero, offering a pathway to health and vitality for generations to come.

Powering up your future!

The moon& gardening

Article by Elize Malan

By trial-and-error early farmers learnt that beside variables such as the weather and skill, planting at certain times resulted in better crops. For them, the light of the sun influenced climate and temperatures and their pagan traditions acknowledged the importance of the moon.

Modern astronomy and physics have confirmed that the sun and moon change the magnetic fields on the earth according to their position in the sky. The influence of the moon on the tidal flows of the ocean is well-known. There is a similar effect on more subtle bodies of water, such as moisture levels in the soil and all living matter.

We have scientific evidence that the lunar cycle as well as the position of the moon in relation to the stars influence the way nature performs. The demand for more natural produce and gardening in harmony with nature has seen a growing interest by organic gardeners and farmers in moon planting.

GARDENING

As the average person is not an astrologer, a guide or calendar is required.

In Europe (northern hemisphere) gardening by lunar and star constellation is very popular and numerous different calendars are available each year.

In South Africa planting guides for our southern hemisphere are available in each issue of The Gardener magazine and on web sites.

If you find all of this confusing, stick to common sense and good gardening practices and try working with the four basic lunar phases only. The moon has a 29.5-day (synodic) cycle around the earth. This is measured from one new moon to the next new moon.

This cycle is divided in four parts:

• New moon to first quarter. seen as a semi fertile period. New moon (dark phase) is the best time to plant succulent offsets or take succulent cuttings.

• First quarter to full moon. this is the most fertile period and the success rate for seed germination increases a few days before full moon. It is a good time to plant seedlings.

• Full moon to last quarter. As the moon wanes, it is beneficial to those plants that

rely on strong root systems. Plant belowground produce and all bulbous plants.

• Last quarter to dark phase. The most barren period as the gravitational pull on the earth’s water is at its weakest. Best for weeding not planting.

Modern horticulture can extent growing seasons and manipulate plant growth and sceptics may regard the calendars anecdotal rather than scientific.

The practical theory of working with lunar-star constellations was proven through systematic research by pioneers such as Maria Thun and John Harris.

Their work resulted in a useful moon planting guide as we know it today.

A Complete Guide for South African Gardens

by Irmela Reichardt

https://www.faithful-to-nature.co.za/blog/moonfood-planting-calendar/

The ultimate Moon Gardening Guide by The Gardener

https://whiskerflowers.wordpress. com/2018/02/14/lunar-gardening-revisitedbiodynamics/

SECURITY Update

Many of our members have availed themselves for palm enrolment at the main gate, please ensure that you fill out all forms and provide all documentation prior to arriving for enrolment, all tags and fingerprints will be suspended mid April 2024. This counts for tenants as well. Forms can be requested from: office@ lombardyestate.co.za

The Lakes Security Forum hosted a family fun day on Thursday, 21 March, at the Cow House, which turned out to be a fun-filled and successful event. The gathering aimed to raise funds for additional security technology, such as License Plate Recognition Cameras and a security drone to patrol the R104 and N4, areas notorious for vehicle spikings. Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities including mountain biking, trail runs, live music, entertainment for the kids, and craft beers, making it a day full of joy and community spirit.

More information can be obtained via the Forum’s Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/groups/614055760628469/

Seeking a Quick Getaway to the Wilderness?

for a big five bush experience second to none, so close to home...

PROOF OF RESIDENCE

REQUIRED WITH BOOKING

AND UPON CHECK-IN

R 2,176 PER PERSON PER NIGHT SHARING

Then the luxurious Mongena Private Game Lodge or glamping at Little Mongena tented camp, is the address for you! We are dedicated to providing our guests with an unique and unforgettable experience immersed in the beauty of South Africa’s natural environment.

R 3,264 PER PERSON PER NIGHT SINGLE

R 1,088 CHILDREN 3-11YRS

SHARING WITH ADULT

Inclusive of three meals plus two activities per night stay

-No children under 12 years allowed at Little Mongena

-Standard cancellation clause as per website applies

- Excludes: Dinokeng entrance fee, drinks, items of a personal nature

Accommodation rates at Mongena Private Game Lodge and Little Mongena tented camp are based on a full board package, i.e. lunch, dinner, bed and breakfast and 2 game activities per day. Drinks consumed are for the guests account with the Dinokeng Conservation levy being payable online to the Reserve. There is an attractive accommodation package for South African residents available.

OFFER VALID UNTIL 30 NOVEMBER 2024

LESS 30%

a place where nature and true luxury meet Tel (012) 711 8920 | relax@mongena.co.za | www.mongena.co.za RESTAURANT

Conveniently located a mere 40 minutes from Pretoria and 1.5 hour drive from Johannesburg by tar road in the malaria-free Dinokeng Game Reserve, the Reserve spans 18,000 ha with free-roaming lions, cheetah, elephant, buffalo and leopard amongst other antelope species, Mongena’s private concession of 8,000 hectares in the northern section of the Reserve offers an authentic exclusive safari experience where only registered safari vehicles and qualified guides are allowed with no access by the general public and a strict 2 vehicle per sighting policy. Besides the safari activities, guests can enjoy a unique sunset cruise on Mongena’s own 30 ha lake.

Mongena Private Game Lodge boasts 24 air-conditioned en suite rooms (6 family rooms, 17 standard twin rooms and 1 honeymoon suite) positioned in beautiful, indigenous, landscaped gardens accommodating a total of 61 guests. All chalets are well positioned amidst rolling lawns in close proximity to the gourmet Kingfisher restaurant, pool and Tshukudu bar area. The main camp is fenced and guests can safely move about within the perimeters of main camp. The tame Zebra’s, Nyala’s and Springbucks residing in the main camp are delighting all guests with their presence and have become a favourite trademark of Mongena.

Little Mongena tented camp is Dinokeng’s gem and takes glamping to new heights! 10 Air-conditioned en suite tents sleeping 2 guests each are situated on the 30 ha Mongena dam with each its own unique view onto the water. The camp is unfenced and no children under 12 years allowed. It offers the same meal package as main lodge with 2 activities included per nights’ stay.

DAY VISITORS AND ACTIVITIES

Due to its easy access from the N1, as well as being close to JNB and PTA, Mongena has become a popular day destination for guided game drives, guided bush walks, sunset cruises and amazing hearty meal offerings at Kingfisher Restaurant. Day visitors can also enjoy an exciting, pre-booked bush barbeque lunch at a bush site with your own personal waiter and chef taking care of all the needs. Minimum of 20 guests and 48 hr notification needed to take up this amazing offer. No own food or liquor is allowed.

KINGFISHER RESTAURANT

This a la carte restaurant with its stunning location overlooking the small watering hole at main lodge, serves divine cuisine for breakfast, lunch, light snacks and dinner and is open 7 days a week to the public as well. Bookings are essential. Tel. +27 12 7118920.

CONFERENCING

Mongena boasts a choice of 3 air-conditioned conference venues accommodating from

10 to 90 delegates, as well as 2 intimate boardrooms each seating 10 or 14 delegates. Wi-fi, overhead projection and sound and all conference stationery is included in the conference rate. The thatched Tshukudu lapa at the main lodge and Imvubu function venue next to the 28 ha Mongena lake can seat up to 150 guests for exiting group events, while the charming chapel can serve as a themed conference dinner venue too.

for a big five bush experience second to none, so close to home...

PROOF OF RESIDENCE REQUIRED WITH BOOKING AND UPON CHECK-IN

R 2,176 PER PERSON PER NIGHT SHARING

R 3,264 PER PERSON PER NIGHT SINGLE

R 1,088 CHILDREN 3-11YRS SHARING WITH ADULT WEDDINGS

Inclusive of three meals plus two activities per night stay -No children under 12 years allowed at Little Mongena -Standard cancellation clause as per website applies

Mongena is a typical weekend destination wedding venue with a minimum of 50 guests to be accommodated and charged for the wedding reception lunch/dinner as a pre-requisite to stage a wedding at Mongena. There is an array of venues to choose from the traditional chapel, bush venue by the river or the Imvubu function venue overlooking the 30 ha Mongena lake or the covered Tshukudu lapa where the matrimonial fire lighting ceremony is taking place! Standby generators ensure seamless execution of the event at any of the venues.

- Excludes: Dinokeng entrance fee, drinks, items of a personal nature

OFFER VALID UNTIL 30 NOVEMBER 2024

LESS 30%

Tel (012) 711

8920

a place where nature and true luxury meet

for a big five bush experience second to none, so close to home...

PROOF OF RESIDENCE REQUIRED WITH BOOKING AND UPON CHECK-IN

LESS 30%

R 2,176 PER PERSON PER NIGHT SHARING

R 3,264 PER PERSON PER NIGHT SINGLE

R 1,088 CHILDREN 3-11YRS SHARING WITH ADULT

Inclusive of three meals plus two activities per night stay

-No children under 12 years allowed at Little Mongena

-Standard cancellation clause as per website applies

- Excludes: Dinokeng entrance fee, drinks, items of a personal nature

OFFER VALID UNTIL 30 NOVEMBER 2024

Tel

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U N D E R S T A N D I N G

D E N T A L D I S E A S E

BY DR VICKY LOUW (BVSC)

D e n t a l D i s e a s e i n D o g s a n d C a t s :

Dental disease is one of the most commonly seen health issues in our canine and feline companions. Approximately 70% of pets have some evidence of periodontal disease by the age of 3 years According to the Global Veterinary Community, 70% of cats and 80% of dogs over the age of three years suffer from dental disease. If left untreated, it can result in bacteria being carried into your pet’s bloodstream, which could result in severe, or even fatal, complications affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Your pets’ dental hygiene is therefore a very important part of their health and well-being.

Types of Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats:

Dental disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and supporting structures. The most common include:

Plaque and Tartar: Plaque is a sticky film containing bacteria, which forms naturally on teeth even within minutes of cleaning Tartar is when plaque mineralises and hardens. Although these are not necessarily diseases, they play an important role in the development of dental disease.

Dental Caries: Although less common in dogs and cats than in humans, cavities (caries) can occur, leading to pain and potential tooth loss.

Periodontal Disease: This is the most prevalent dental condition in dogs and cats. The disease progresses from plaque build-up to tartar formation, leading to inflammation and infection of the structures around the teeth, including the gums and bone. If untreated, it leads to periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss.

Stomatitis: A common disease in cats. It is severely painful and involves inflammation of the mouth's mucous membranes that can affect the gums, cheeks, and tongue Its exact cause is not fully understood, but it's thought to be immune-mediated in response to dental disease or other factors

Tooth Resorption: An extremely painful condition, more commonly seen in adult cats. It happens when the tooth's hard structure gets eroded, leading to significant dental issues and tooth loss. The exact cause is unknown

Tooth Fractures: This can happen in both dogs and cats. In cats, it is usually secondary to trauma, whereas dogs often fracture their teeth by chewing on hard objects. These fractures can expose the tooth's pulp, leading to infection and pain.

It's crucial for owners to recognise the signs of dental disease early. Cats are notoriously stoic, often hiding pain and discomfort until it becomes severe.

Symptoms may include:

Bad breath

Loose or missing teeth

Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

Pawing at the mouth or face

Excessive drooling (especially in cats)

Visible tartar on the teeth

Difficulty eating, dropping food from the mouth, or preference for soft food

Decreased activity or hiding (signs of pain or discomfort)

Prevention Strategies:

Preventative care is key to managing dental disease.Here are some effective strategies:

Diet and Chew Toys/Treats: Special diets and chew toys designed to reduce plaque can also be part of a comprehensive dental care plan.

Brushing Teeth: Daily brushing with pet friendly toothpaste can significantly reduce plaque build-up. If daily brushing is not possible, at least three times a week is advised. It is important to start with brushing teeth while your pet is still young.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Annual or biannual dental check-ups by your veterinarian can catch early signs of dental disease.

Dental Cleanings: Professional cleanings by a veterinarian, performed under general anaesthesia, allows a thorough examination and removal of plaque and tartar that can't be brushed away. Depending on the patient and specific situation, we usually advise to start with dental cleanings at the age of two years and to perform dental cleanings every 12 to 24 months.

Treatment varies based on the dental disease type and severity. Options include:

Professional Cleaning: Under general anaesthesia, teeth are thoroughly cleaned above and below the gum line. Each tooth is closely inspected for signs of disease X-rays may be performed to assess the health of the jaw and tooth roots.

Extractions: Severely diseased or damaged teeth may need to be extracted to prevent further infection.

Medications: Antibiotics and pain relief may be necessary to manage infection and discomfort.

Advanced Treatments: In some cases, dogs and cats may require root canals, more extensive surgical interventions, or other advanced dental care. For these procedures, they are usually referred to specialist veterinary dentists.

C o n c l u s i o n

Dental disease is a serious health issue that, if left untreated, can lead to significant discomfort and systemic health problems. With regular veterinary care, proper home dental hygiene practices, and a vigilant eye for symptoms, owners can help their pets maintain healthy teeth and gums. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice any changes in your pet’s oral health or behaviour, as early intervention is key to managing dental diseases effectively.

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Boosting Your

SYSTEM FOR WINTER WELLNESS

As the chill of winter sets in, so does the season of colds, flu, and other pesky illnesses. But fear not! There are numerous ways to fortify your immune system and arm yourself against these seasonal invaders. From lifestyle adjustments to dietary choices, a proactive approach can make all the difference in staying healthy during the colder months.

1. Nutrient-Rich Diet:

Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is crucial for a robust immune system. Focus on incorporating immuneboosting foods such as citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and yogurt into your meals. These foods provide essential nutrients that support immune function and help fend off illness.

2. Stay Hydrated:

Maintaining adequate hydration is key to supporting your body’s immune defenses.

Drinking water with the correct pH level can further enhance its benefits. Aim for a pH level of around 7, which is considered neutral. You can achieve this by drinking filtered or mineral water, or by adding a squeeze of lemon or lime to your water, which can help balance its pH. Herbal teas and broths can also provide hydration along with additional immune-supporting benefits.

3. Get Plenty of Sleep:

Quality sleep is essential for immune function and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to allow your body ample time to rest and repair. Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to promote better sleep hygiene.

4. Manage Stress:

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your daily routine such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature. Prioritize self-care to help combat the effects of stress on your immune health.

5. Regular Exercise:

Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to enhance immune function and reduce the risk of illness. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Choose activities you enjoy, whether it’s walking, cycling, dancing, or practicing yoga, to make staying active a pleasure rather than a chore.

6. Practice Good Hygiene:

• Wash the carrots and apple, and chop them into chunks.

• If using, wash the spinach or kale.

• Add all ingredients to a juicer and process until smooth.

• Pour the juice into a glass and enjoy immediately.

• This refreshing juice is packed with immune-boosting vitamin C from the citrus fruits, along with antioxidants from the carrots, apple, ginger, and leafy greens.

Frequent handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs and reduce your risk of infection. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating, after using the restroom, and after coughing or sneezing. Additionally, avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth, to minimize the transmission of viruses.

JUICING RECIPE FOR IMMUNE SUPPORT:

Give your immune system a boost with this simple and delicious immune-boosting juice recipe:

Citrus Immunity Blast:

Ingredients:

• 2 oranges

• 1 lemon

• 1-inch piece of ginger

• 2 carrots

• 1 apple

• 1-2 cups of spinach or kale (optional)

Instructions:

• Peel the oranges and lemon, and cut them into quarters.

• Peel the ginger and chop it into smaller pieces.

TIPS TO AVOID GETTING SICK DURING WINTER:

Stay Warm: Dress in layers and keep your home environment comfortably warm to prevent cold-related illnesses.

Avoid Close Contact: Minimize exposure to sick individuals and practice social distancing during flu season.

Stay Up-to-Date with Vaccinations: Get vaccinated against the flu and other preventable illnesses to reduce your risk of infection.

Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, countertops, and electronic devices to prevent the spread of germs.

By adopting these immune-boosting strategies and incorporating nourishing foods and habits into your daily routine, you can strengthen your body’s defenses and enjoy a healthier, happier winter season. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to staying well during the colder months, so prioritize your immune health and give yourself the best chance of warding off winter ailments.

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this Winter COZY UP YOUR HOME

As winter approaches, the drop in temperature invites us to transform our living spaces into cozy havens. With the right touches, any room can become a warm and inviting retreat. Here are simple yet effective ways to cozy up your home, reflecting the unique South African winter experience.

Embrace Warmth with Textiles

Sherpa Blankets and Throws: The quickest way to add warmth to your living room is with plush sherpa blankets. Draping these soft, thick blankets over your couches not only keeps you warm but also adds a touch of elegance to your space.

Rug Up: South African homes, often designed for warmer weather, can feel cold underfoot in winter. Solve this by layering rugs in key areas. A high-pile or wool rug not only insulates your floors but also adds texture and color to your room.

Heat Things Up

Adding a Fireplace: If your budget allows, installing a fireplace can transform the ambiance of any room. For homes without a built-in option, consider a portable electric fireplace. It provides the warmth and glow

of a traditional fireplace without the need for extensive renovation.

Portable Heaters: A more affordable option is to use portable heaters. Today’s market offers efficient, safe, and aesthetically pleasing heaters that can blend seamlessly with your room’s decor.

Colour Your World

Warm Colour Palette: Incorporate warm colors like deep reds, earthy browns, and muted oranges into your decor. These colors can make large, open spaces feel more intimate and welcoming. Consider adding these tones through wall paint, cushion covers, or decorative items.

Mood Lighting: The right lighting can dramatically alter the mood of a room. Use soft, warm bulbs in your lamps and consider adding dimmer switches to control the intensity of light. Candles, especially those with winter scents like cinnamon or pine, can add a cozy ambiance and a hint of fragrance.

Embrace Local Craft

Support Local Artisans: South Africa is rich in craft and design. Incorporate handmade items like woven baskets, pottery, and traditional blankets into your decor. These pieces not only add warmth and texture but also support local artisans.

Create Cozy Corners

Dedicated Relaxation Spaces: Identify a corner in your home to create a cozy nook. A comfortable armchair, a small side table, a soft lamp, and a stack of books can invite hours of relaxation. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a hot cup of rooibos tea on a cold winter’s day.

Transforming your home into a cozy winter sanctuary doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Simple additions like soft blankets, warm lighting, and touches of local artistry can make all the difference. By embracing the season with warmth and comfort, your home can become a cherished space for relaxation and rejuvenation this winter.

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• Powered by a 3.5-litre V6 self-charging full hybrid powertrain

• First model to benefit from Lexus’ Multi Stage Hybrid System

• Multimedia system gains smartphone integration functions with Apple CarPlay® And Android Auto®

The Lexus LC coupe has all the qualities befitting a luxury coupe, representing the best in Lexus design, engineering and craftsmanship. The Lexus coupe is now available as the LC 500h hybrid and benefits from a series of improvements and innovations since the previous model year sold. The result is an evolution in the model’s luxury motoring qualities, from its ride, handling and responsiveness, to its comfort and multimedia functionality.

Furthermore, this addition to the Lexus line-up represents a perfect harmony of cutting-edge technology, unparalleled performance, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.

Why Hybrid?

Lexus understands the evolving needs of today’s drivers, and the LC 500h is a testament to the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility. By combining the power of a traditional internal combustion engine with the efficiency of an electric motor, Lexus aims to provide a driving experience that not only excites, but also respects the environment.

Lexus South Africa states: “The introduction of the LC 500h hybrid coupe represents a significant milestone for Lexus SA. We believe that luxury should not come at the cost of environmental responsibility, and the LC 500h perfectly encapsulates this philosophy. With its striking design, exceptional performance, and advanced hybrid technology, we are confident that the LC 500h will redefine the standards of luxury driving in South Africa”.

Adaptive Performance

The Lexus LC 500h is designed to adapt seamlessly to diverse driving conditions. Whether navigating the bustling urban streets or cruising on the open highways, the LC 500h ensures a dynamic driving experience.

At the heart of the LC 500h is its advanced hybrid powertrain, delivering an impressive blend of power and efficiency. The combination of a 3.5-liter V6 engine and an electric motor results in a thrilling driving experience with reduced environmental impact.

The LC 500h features a multi-stage hybrid system that seamlessly integrates electric power and traditional petrol power. This innovative system optimises performance across various driving conditions, ensuring a responsive and engaging ride.

The Multi Stage Hybrid System

The LC 500h self-charging full hybrid powertrain features a 220kW 3.5-litre V6 engine and Lexus’ revolutionary Multi Stage Hybrid System. The total system output is 264kW.

The Multi Stage Hybrid System is one of the most significant technical advances yet developed by Lexus. It overturns the traditional “eco” perception of hybrid powertrains to deliver authentic high performance, unlike anything seen before. In essence, the system uses a multi stage shift device to amplify engine and electric motor output in four stages, making use of the full range of engine speeds. This gives more direct response to driver inputs and a higher level of dynamic performance and driving pleasure.

Lexus increased maximum engine speed from 6,000 to 6,600rpm, while the 0-100 km/h acceleration time remains at five seconds with a top speed of 250km. While the V6 itself is smooth and very quiet, it is less thirsty during throttle openings, helping the driver to save fuel. The Multi Stage Hybrid System’s shift logic produces a smooth and a more linear response, and also sharpens performance through bends with an automatic downshift to second gear when accelerating out of a turn.

Luxurious Craftsmanship

Meticulous attention-to-detail and luxurious craftsmanship define the LC 500h. Its sleek, aerodynamic design not only enhances its visual appeal, but also optimises fuel efficiency, ensuring a stylish and eco-conscious driving experience.

Style and Design

The spindle grille is finished in chrome and has a mesh design with a visual tension that changes as it spreads across the front of the car. The unique LC lighting signature is created by independent daytime running lights in an arrowhead configuration and ultra-compact triple LED headlamp units. Achieving this remarkably slim headlight design played an important role in helping the designers achieve a low bonnet line and short front overhang. A no-compromise exterior design features 21-inch run flat forged alloy wheels, a boot spoiler with a retractable wing that comes standard, and a carbon-fibre roof.

Rear Styling

At the rear the coupe’s roof tapers down between muscular wheel arches, reinforcing the car’s wide and stable stance. The Lexus spindle shape is visible here in a three-dimensional form that is generated by lines flowing from the front of the car and along the sides, before cutting back around the inner edge of the rear combination lamps. The line of the spindle then moves outwards, following the shape of the licence plate mounting and outer edges of the tailpipes.

Colours, Trims and Niceties

The Lexus LC 500h coupe is available in 10 colours, namely; White Nova, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black, Sonic Chrome, Sonic Iridium, Solar Storm Red, Sonic Copper, Terrane Khaki, Naples Yellow and Poseidon Blue. Inside the cabin, there are three options to select from: Black, Dark Rose and Ochre.

The LC 500h comes standard with a 12.3-inch high-resolution splitscreen display that allows access to the audio, climate controls and the navigation system. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also standard for seamless connectivity, coupled with a full-colour head-up display.

Convenience features that have been adopted to the vehicle include head-up display, seat lumbar support, tyre inflation pressure warning, EMV & navigation system, Panoramic View Monitor and driver and passenger seat heaters.

Lexus Safety System+

The model comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ which comprises a package of active safety features that include a Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane-Keep Assist with Lane Departure Alert and Automatic High Beam. The Lexus Safety System+ helps reduce the risk of an accident, alerts the driver to potential hazards and can help reduce the consequences should an impact be unavoidable.

Price and Warranty

The Lexus LC 500h coupe retails for R 2 542 800 and, like all Lexus models, boasts a best-in-class 7-year/105 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. The vehicle service intervals are pegged at every 15 000km, alternatively once a year. The LC 500h coupe furthermore comes with an additional 8-year/195 000 km hybrid battery warranty.

The Lexus LC 500h coupe is available on a customer order basis only at Lexus dealerships across South Africa.

Web: www.lexus.co.za

Twitter: lexus_sa

Facebook: LexusSouthAfrica

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OUR FIRST PETROL + HYBRID + ELECTRIC IN ONE PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE THE ALL-NEW RX 450h +

The Lexus 450h+ intuitively switches between three distinct drive modes precisely when needed. Without compromise. Our obsession with new energy reveals itself in our first ever RX Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.

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