THE HILLS ESTATE | APRIL 2019

THE | ESTATE NEWS

THE HILLS

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W HAT ’ S N EW .

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K EEP K IDS FLU F R E E

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P u b l i sh e r K- S t udio (P t y ) Ltd o n beh alf of H ert ita g e H i l l Ad ve rti si n g Sa l e s Tobia tobia@k-st udio. co . za

CO N TEN TS ISSUE 2 | APRIL 2019 JUNE 2018

B ronwen sales2@k-st udio. co . za C alv in sales3@k-st udio. co . za Ed i to r Tobia von Zwiet ri n g Copy w ri te r / p ro o f r eader C hantel Venter De si g n & La yo ut K- S t udio (P t y ) Ltd e tobia@ k-st udio. co . za t 082 962 8255 f Kreat iefS t udi o

Disclaimer: This e-Magazine is produced especially for residents/owners of The Hills Estate to provide updates and useful information. It is produced by K-Studio on behalf of The Hills Estate HOA. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of content, The Hills 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.

Follow Us On @KSDigitalPublishing @ksdigitalpublishing

05

LETTER FROM THE ESTATE MANAGER

07

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

08

SECURITY UPDATE

11

FROM STUDIOUS ARCHITECTS

14

CLASSIFIEDS

16

FROM THE GYM MANAGER

21

POMPOM WEEDS

24

PUT IT IN YOUR DIARY

26

GRILLED CORN

29

THE GREY GO-AWAY BIRD

30

WHAT’S NEW

32

WHY PROPERTY MARKETS SLOW DOWN BEFORE ELECTIONS

35

KNOW THE ESTATE RULES ON GENERATORS

43 46

STRESS & THE IMMUNE SYSTEM PHOTOS OF THE ESTATE

ESTATE NEWS | THE

THE | ESTATE NEWS

from the Estate

MANAGER Dear The Hills Homeowners,

safely making use of the completed sections.

In the blink of an eye, it is April.

Development on the Estate is also progressing rapidly and construction of new houses increased by approximately 10% overall and 20 houses were completed and residents have moved in.

With current load shedding underway we are receiving numerous complaints about small type generators that are being used to ease the impact on households. These generators are quite noisy and lead to many disturbance complaints to this effect.

We urge all residents to be considerate towards your neighbours and ask all to keep this aspect in mind when you make use of these appliances and remind all on the HOA circular in this regard. Those who are considering permanent/in bedded installations should contact RNM who will assist with all requirements in this regard, connections@thehills. rnm.co.za.

We warm heartedly welcome our new occupants and wish you all a long and happy stay as part of the unique family lifestyle the Estate offers.

All newly occupied homes that have empty boxes can get in touch with dontwasterecycle@ gmail.com who will be able to assist you with collection.

Construction of the pathways is well underway, with the first phase of the eco area aimed for completion within the next 8 weeks. The second phase pathways project has already been incorporated into the 2019/2020 proposed budget and the pathways extensions might become an ongoing project going forward. This aspect proved to be well accepted already as many pedestrians are

With the good rains we received this season the natural vegetation have grown in abundance and the eco areas are quite densely covered in foliage.

The HOA together with iLawn is currently hard at work cutting all common areas and open stands back to the required standard and should be finished within the next two weeks. With the rains and warm conditions large quantities of ticks also made their appearance and we need residents to monitor pets and people closely when in close proximity of densely grown areas.

It appears that several properties are not registered for garden refuse removal yet and we advise all to contact Bronberg Waste Management at www. waste-management.co.za should you like to make THE HI LLS E STATE | 2 0 1 9 | I S S U E 2 | 5

ESTATE NEWS | THE

unaccompanied is still something we observe frequently and once more advise parents to reiterate this important aspect with their caretakers and au pairs.

Speeding is still a continued challenge and The Estate is busy and has a constant flow of we are in the process traffic consisting of large of purchasing speed monitoring equipment to and small vehicles and assist in managing driver we can not accept that small children are left behaviour. We once more ask all residents to to fend for themselves please adhere to the 30 when walking in the Estate. km/h speed limit while driving in the Estate and to inform all guests Our infrastructure is also under threat as we visitors and contractors deal with an increased of same. building /development capacity resulting in Small children more large vehicle wondering the Estate use of their service, alternatively it remains the responsibility of the owners to remove garden refuse themselves.

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deliveries, cement trucks and construction related vehicles. Please ensure that consent from neighbours are obtained before you make use of the open stands next to you, across from you or even close to you.

These trucks are causing damage in several ways, dumping cement, spilling cement as they drive, leaving roads dirty, damaging manholes, lamp posts, fire hydrants etc. and we therefore advise all owners to ensure rule compliance at all times while in the construction phase.

Please reiterate these aspects with your main

contractors.

On the wildlife side our animals are in a good healthy condition and we have welcomed our first new-born Springbuck on the Estate.

We congratulate all residents who celebrated their birthdays recently and wish you all a blessed year and good health. We also would like to congratulate all new parents. May the new additions to families bring joy and laughter for years to come.

THE | ESTATE NEWS

important

Contacts Estate Manager

Office Assistant

Security Manager

Johan van Schalkwyk

Maryke Botes

Oppies Opperman

066 474 0494 johanvs@trafalgar.co.za

012 941 3703 / 066 474 0495 Marykeb@trafalgar.co.za

076 821 7567 oppiesopperman@omegasol.com

MAIN GATE 082 826 3761 GATE COMMANDER (GARSFONTEIN) 082 826 3761 LEVY ENQUIRIES Juanique Jonker 011 214 5200 juaniquej@trafalgar.co.za NETCARE Pretoria East Hospital 012 422 2300 (Antivenom) GYM MANAGER Tanya Dannhauser tanya@resiliencestudio.co.za 079 974 2210

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS & REACH YOUR TARGET

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR NEXT ISSUE e tobia@k-studio.co.za

CARLITA’S RESTAURANT 062 808 0015 carlitasrestaurant@gmail.com THE HI LLS E STATE | 2 0 1 9 | I S S U E 2 | 7

ESTATE NEWS | THE

SECURITY Security concentrated on the validity Herewith the contact numbers for security: control room:0828263761 of our access control system. Security Security Security manager:0768217567 is committed to zero tolerance and any deviation was investigated.

Kindly take your neighbours into We thank all residents for their coaccount with regards to noise. operation and ask the residents who Please respect the rules of the Estate. did receive notice letters to adhere to the rules of the Estate.

To misuse your personal access rights by opening for a non-residential visitor is in contravention of the conduct rules and the Estate MOI. Notice letters were issued and we hope we do not have to apply the full force of the rules.

No serious incidents were recorded although noise complaints seem to be on the increase. Residents are reminded that Estate living means taking other residents into account. Please inform your neighbours if and when there might be noise at your house or stand.

Residents are reminded that working hours for contract workers/maintenance crews are restricted to 07:0017:00 in the week, 08:00 – 13:00 on Saturdays and none on Sundays.

Lawnmowers used on Sundays have become an issue. The conduct rules states that the use of petrol lawnmower or any other petrol-driven garden tool is not allowed.

This creates another problem because electrical lawnmowers also make noise and we are receiving noise complaints from these. Please try to deal with the cutting of grass on a Saturday morning.

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THE | ESTATE NEWS

ALL YOUR ROLLER BLINDS & AWNING NEEDS New & Recovered

ENJOY YOUR PATIO ALL YEAR ROUND

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Have you built a lapa or patio area that you want to protect from the weather to create a year round entertainment area? Our canvas roller blinds, sometimes referred to as canvas curtains or drop down blinds, are made with top quality local and imported fabric in a selected range of colors and styles.

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THE | ESTATE NEWS

FROM STUDIOUS ARCHITECTS Written by: Francois van Wyk

PrArch 24751027 | MProf(Arch)(Cum Laude) UP

THE AESTHETICS COMITTEE

Architectural information session.

We are very excited to announce that we have recently hosted and architectural information session. The info session was held in Midrand and open to all Architects on our database.

We spent time explaining the architectural guidelines, discussed the most frequently asked questions and opened the floor up to suggestions.

We believe that this was a fruitful exercise and we look forward to hosting another session in the near future.

Amendments and additions

In a constant effort to enhance and protect the value of the Estate, we would like to elaborate and clearly explain the process involved when considering any external amendments and deviations to your home.

Before any change is made, it is of utmost importance that you consult with your architectural professional. The Architect must prepare and submit an amendment plan, clearly showing the intended changes to the Aesthetics Committee.

The process takes five (5) working days (Friday to Friday) and involves the following: • The Architect should Submit 1 set revised working drawings in A1 format before 14:00 on a Friday to Studious Architects’ office.

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ESTATE NEWS | THE

• The plan should be accompanied by the relevant signed and completed application form (Form F), clearly listing all changes. This form can be downloaded from our website >> CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

The submission fee is R1700 and must also accompany the submission.

These proposed changes will be evaluated by the Aesthetics Committee (Studious Aesthetics) and either Approved, Approved Conditionally, or Not Approved.

[Approved]: Additional sets can be brought to the Studious Office for stamps.

[Approved Conditionally]: Minor items should be addressed and additional sets can be brought the Studious Office for stamps.

[Not Approved]: The plan must be changed and resubmitted for evaluation.

• If the change is of a structural nature, the plan must also then be submitted to the local authority for evaluation after approval has been obtained from the Aesthetics Committee.

• If the changes were purely aesthetic, then the plan does not have to be resubmitted to the local authority, and the work may commence.

• NB: No changes or deviations may be made from the approved plan without obtaining approval from the Aesthetics Committee first.

• Contractors and homeowners will be held liable for a penalty for any such illegal building activity.

For any other clarity on questions, please visit our website: www.studiousaethetics.co.za.

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THE | ESTATE NEWS

IN S P I R I N G L I V I N G S PA C E S

DESIGN E D ACCORDIN G T O YO U R REQ U IREM ENTS

t 0 1 1 7 9 2 0 0 9 3 | e m arket i ng @chcki tchens.co.za w w w w. c h ck itchens .c o. z a | a 1 R ocky street, Fernd al e, R and b u rg THE HI LLS E STATE | 2 0 1 9 | I S S U E 2 | 13

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Classifieds Would you like to know if you may add your product to this list?

Contact tobia@k-studio.co.za *terms and conditions apply

GARDENING Eric Tlou available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays contact 076 206 2297 and for a reference Celia van Zyl 083 210 3074.

Mike is a handyman/ gardener looking for work every other Saturday, currently employed by iLawn. 078 796 1254 DOMESTIC HELPERS Diana is looking for work on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. 073 267 1315 SELLING Selling Buttermilk & Bran Rusks, 500g for R55 contact Tobia on 082 962 8255 Selling Annique skincare products for more info contact Ulandi Weyers on weyersulandi@gmail.com BABYSITTING Ilke Lambrechts is a medical student and babysitter over weekends, you may contact her on 079 359 5995 PETSITTING

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Looking for a petsitter contact LibrĂŠ Genis on 082 901 6138 LOOKING FOR Looking for something? now you can ask here contact tobia@k-studio.co.za SERVICES OFFERED John is a trustworthy handyman and comes highly recommended 073 512 2127

The Classifieds section is only available to The Hills residents and there is no charge for residents or homeowners to advertise here.

Please include your stand number and contact details for references.This Classifieds section is not for the use of businesses.

If you would like to advertise your business in the Estate Magazine, please email Tobia von Zwietring at tobia@k-studio.co.za All Classified advertisements will be removed monthly. Please inform us by email before the 18th of every month if you would like to repeat your previous advert.

THE | ESTATE NEWS

The modern dentistry you’ve been missing...

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Medical Aid Practice

General Dentistry

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Dental Implants

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Our dentists are committed to making you look, feel and smile your best.

THE HI LLS E STATE | 2 0 1 9 | I S S U E 2 | 15

ESTATE NEWS | THE

from the

Gym Manager With winter around the corner, it is now the time to find what works for you and to stick to it.

It is recommended to exercise 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Here are some tips for working out more often and to go about it smartly.

SET A ROUTINE Aim for the same time of day – such as first thing in the morning – so working out becomes second nature.

DON’T STAY OUT OF THE COLD Your body works harder when it has to warm up, it increases your basal metabolic rate to burn even more calories.

KNOW YOURSELF Social? Try one of our group classes. Or if you prefer setting your own pace, consider circuit training or running where you can beat your personal best.

GET A WORKOUT BUDDY It may be easier to stay motivated when someone else is counting on you. A personal trainer or a friend could perhaps be the answer. If you’re a dog owner, you already have a companion waiting in the wings, and it’s a great workout for you both!

REWARD SMALL GOALS Treat yourself to new headphones or sneakers when you reach a milestone; it’ll keep you motivated to achieve your targets.

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SNEAK IN EXTRA EXERCISE Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park further from your destination. Perhaps do some lunges while running the bath? Sneak in any exercise you can. And if your day is mostly sedentary, make sure you get up and stretch and walk around regularly.

One secret to overall fitness is simple: Make it a habit It takes four weeks for you to notice a change, eight weeks for your friends to notice, 12 weeks for the rest of the world to notice a change and only one day to decide that you are enough.

There are no excuses, the gym is in the Estate, decide today to make a difference in your life and take baby steps.

Remember, Discovery Vitality is now LIVE at the gym.

Discovery members can now log their workouts and earn 100 Vitality points every time they visit the gym.

In the near future we will organise a Vitality Wellness day. Watch this Space!

THE | ESTATE NEWS

NEW GROUP CLASS STARTING 01 APRIL 2019 WEIGHTS CLASS WITH DELENE

ONLY R360 PER MONTH MONDAYS @ 05:30 CLASS IS LIMITED TO 12 MEMBERS BOOKING ESSENTIAL

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ESTATE NEWS | THE

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THE THE | | ESTATE GARDENING NEWS

POMPOM

weeds

As many of you have seen our grasslands in Gauteng have become infested with a purple wave of flowers. We decided to gain more information regarding this flower.

Below you will find information shared by the Agricultural Research Council.

For the past four years we have been treating the flowers by hand at The Hills. We have used chemicals and plucking methods to control the Pompoms. Luckily, we managed to partner up with the (ARC) and they supplied us with an insect that kills the plant.

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GARDENING | THE

​​​POMPOM WEED​​​​

(Campuloclinium macrocephalum) (Asteraceae) The weed Pompom weed (Campuloclinium macrocephalum (Less.)

DC.) is a South American herb belonging to the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is rapidly becoming the most serious threat to the conservation of grasslands in South Africa.

Infestations become conspicuous when the plants are in flower between December and March, transforming the veld from green to pink. The plant initially establishes itself in disturbed sites such as roadsides, but then invades natural grasslands, open savanna and wetlands. This weed displaces native species, reducing both the biological diversity and carrying capacity of wetlands and veld.

During winter the plant is not visible above-ground.

Control Management should aim to maintain the natural vegetation in a healthy, productive state as this will help to limit pompom invasion.

Chemical control Chemical control of pompom weed has been severely compromised by the rust biocontrol agent, Puccinia eupatorii. The rust becomes very damaging to mature pompom shoots from February, and herbicide absorption and translocation is thus adversely affected. It is not advisable to spray pompom weed after February; this leaves a narrow window of opportunity in which to conduct spraying operations: 2-3 months depending on climatic conditions (December to February). In years with early spring rainfall it may be possible to spray in late November. Herbicides should be applied onto actively growing plants at least 0.5 m tall. The selective, broadleaf Pompom weed is a perennial, erect herb up to 1.5 m herbicides picloram and metsulfuron methyl are both high. The stems and leaves are covered with rough, bristly registered on pompom weed and will not affect veld hairs. Leaves are scattered along the length of the stem but grasses. clustered at the base to form a rosette. The plant has a short woody rootstock that ends in thick tuber-like perennial Physical control roots. In spring, shoots arise from, and in autumn die In general, physical methods of control, such as uprooting back to, the rootstock. The showy pink flowerheads or hoeing, are ineffective and make the problem worse (inflorescences) are produced in dense clusters at the ends through disturbance. Spread of the plant can be limited of the aerial stems, and look like bright-pink powderpuffs. by preventing seed production. Aerial stems can be cut right back before the flowers produce seed. However, be Each flowerhead, measuring 15 mm long × 25 mm wide, consists of hundreds of tiny, star-shaped florets (individual “flowers”) surrounded by purple bracts (brightly coloured, leaf-like scales). A long, protruding style from each floret gives the flowerhead a fluffy appearance. Mature florets each produce a single-seeded dry fruit (achene) with a tuft of brown hairs (pappus) that promote wind dispersal.

How or when the plant was introduced into South Africa remains unknown. Currently, it is most prominent in Gauteng, but also occurs in Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Free State Provinces. ​A small patch of plants in the Outeniqua mountains near George has been eradicated but the site will be monitored for regrowth.

Pompom weed is a listed invasive species (category 1b plant) in terms of the I​ AS Regulations (August 2014) of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, (NEM:BA) (2004). It is illegal to harbour, plant, propagate or sell pompom weed. Landowners are therefore compelled to control pompom weed by whatever means are deemed appropriate.

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THE | GARDENING

warned that the plants will be stimulated to produce more stems. In order for this method to work, the plants will have to be cut back several times until the end of the growing season.

Repeated cutting back of aerial growth to deplete nutrients stored in the roots and thus to weaken the plant, is not recommended as it will require many years of meticulous dedication to each infestation and incur high costs for labour and transportation. This method is, however, only practical on a small scale and primarily to prevent flowering and seed set. It is advisable to remove all flower heads from the site, being careful not to spread the weed further, and dispose by burning.

finger-like roots) from the soil. To be safe the rootstock should be removed with a portion of the roots. Once the rootstock crown has been removed, the roots remaining in the soil will die.

It is important to cause as little soil disturbance as possible, in order to prevent the mass-germination of pompom seeds. Regular follow-up visits to the site for the next seven years are essential to ensure that all seedlings have been removed.

Fire Burning can be a doubleedged sword, as it has been found to kill seeds on and just below the soil surface but also causes spontaneous regrowth In the case of single or very from rootstock. If areas are few pompom plants in an burnt and left, the weed will area, each plant can be dug become denser. We believe up, taking care to remove at that burning, integrated least the rootstock crown with chemical control, will (the area where the stem be an effective tool to target is attached to the swollen, both the weed seedbank

and mature rooted plants, and North West. Followbut this assumption needs up surveys and feedback to be researched further. from landowners have confirmed the persistence Biological control of the insects, and methods currently being A stem-galling thrips are (Liothrips tractabilis) and investigated to increase the rust fungus (Puccinia their dispersal within eupatorii) are currently the and between pompom two main biological control infestations. agents in use against pompom weed and it is Liothrips tractabilis is expected that the pompom currently being massthrips, in conjunction reared at the ARC-PPRI with the pompom rust, as facility in Cedara, KwaZuluwell as chemical control Natal and couriered to efforts, will go a long way ARC-PPRI in Pretoria, in reducing the spread from where releases are and impact of this invasive coordinated according to guidelines provided by the plant.

National Pompom Steering Adult and nymphal stages of Committee. Once releases the thrips cause significant have been completed in feeding damage to all areas prioritized by the pompom stems and leaves Steering Committee, and which, in turn, drastically mass-rearing expands to deforms plant growth, thus Gauteng, insects will be reducing flowering. Since more readily available to the initial first release, meet the ever-increasing of residents’ over 100 000 adults and requests nymphs have been released associations and private in over 45 localities landowners throughout Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga

iLawn Workers cutting down the weeds THE HI LLS E STATE | 2 0 1 9 | I S S U E 2 | 23

EVENTS & FOOD | THE

PUT IT IN YOUR

DIARY decor and more. Naturally, plenty of delicious gourmet SA Fashion Week, 3-6 April, Sandton City This year SA’s favourite fashion event is coming of age. food stalls, wines, live music and kids’ entertainment await Celebrate 21 Years of SAFW by booking your spot near you as well. See you there! the runway. Make it a night out with the girls as you enjoy bubbly and walk the red carpet with the who’s who in the Fijnwyn Wine & Food Festival, South African fashion circuit.

The Rand Show, 19-28 April, The Johannesburg Expo Centre The Rand Show has gained legendary status as Joburg’s Best Day Out. For the 125th year in a row, visitors to this 10-day event will be treated to a variety of entertainment and shopping attractions suited for the whole family.

Easter Egg Hunt, 20 April, The Weekend Market Johannesburg Looking for a place where the kids can get their egg hunt on? The Weekend Market in Nasrec Road is just the place.

Make the entertainment last the whole day long with the market’s Kids’ World and Water Park. Plus, loads for grown ups to browse and do too.

30 April & 1 May, Pretoria

As we head deeper into autumn, wine tastings move all the way up the list of must-do events.

And it doesn’t get any more wonderful than at the Turkish-inspired Shokran Events Venue situated in Tierpoort, Pretoria.

“Fancy” Fijnwyn takes place Tuesday afternoon from 16:00 to 21:00 and includes a harvest table, tasting and a glass. The classic Fijnwyn event takes place on the public holiday the Wednesday 1 May from 10:00 until 17:00. Guests will receive a glass and free tastings of some of SA’s best. Various Tierlantynkies, 26 April - 1 May, Pretoria gourmet food stalls and live entertainment will add Another annual favourite in the Pretoria calendar is the to the day’s relaxed vibe.

Tierlantynkies market. Visitors can look forward to over 86 exhibitors ranging between jewellery, clothing, toys,

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a “nou gaan ons braai” recipe

GRILLED CORN with parmesan & chives

I usually pre-cook my corn (mealies) either with a steamer or in a pot on the oven for 15 - 30 minutes or until you think they are cooked. I then take them out of the water to prevent them from getting soggy while I wait for the “braai master” (my hubby) to finish. The corn is the last thing to go onto the fire as you only want to get the grilled effect and the taste, I then mix the chives & butter and rub it over the corn and sprinkle salt, pepper & parmasan cheese.

Ingredients 1 tbsp Chives, dried or fresh 5 Ears Sweet corn 1 Kosher salt and pepper 1 tbsp Butter, unsalted 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

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THE | EVENTS & FOOD

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THE THE | | ESTATE GARDENING NEWS

THE GREY GO-AWAY BIRD Previously known as the grey loerie, this rather dull looking, average sized bird is part of the Turaco family. Unlike the rest of the forest dwelling, colourful Turaco members, the grey goaway bird or kwêvoël (as it is now known), is found on the open African savanna, often near water.

These noisy birds make a rather unusual call once described, a nasal “kweh” or “go-away” sound, which gives rise to the old story of the birds warning call when danger was approaching. They are generally very gregarious birds and will often form groups of up to 20 birds that hop around the tops of trees in search of berries and insects.

The grey go-away bird is much more vocal during the breeding season, which starts with the onset of the rainy summer months. It is definitely worth listening out for this repetitive call when out in the bush because most of the time, these grey little feathery friends have spotted something we may have not!

We’ve recently seen and heard these “kwêvoëls” in the Eco area, this is another reminder that we live in such a beautiful and peaceful Estate. May you too enjoy the “kweh” sound.

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WHAT’S NEW | THE

What’s new: It’s small, loud and could save your life!

In South Africa alarms are something we’ve grown accustomed to. We install alarms in our homes and cars to attract attention and improve our safety. But how does a wearable alarm sound?

To runners, elderly people living alone, walkers, students, cyclists, travellers, night shift workers everywhere or anyone returning home late at night, this may sound incredibly appealing. A device that allows you to press a button and alert everyone in your immediate vicinity that you are in distress, is pure genius as it could give you the leverage needed to make an escape or attract help.

The Irish company behind this revelation, Run Angel™, wanted this device to be more than just an alarm.

Through smartphone pairing a person can set up a Guardian network each of which will receive an SMS and email with your exact location whenever your alarm has been activated. The device also allows a person to send alerts without activating the alarm.

The Run Angel™ boasts a 120-dB high-pitched alarm via its acoustic sound chamber, one touch activation, a rechargeable battery (up to 3-weeks’ battery life) and a neat and small design. Available in black, yellow and pink.

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

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THE | ESTATE NEWS

LE TE SO DA AN M

LE TE SO DA AN M

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see a slight uptake of buyers who are comfortable to begin the process of shopping for a suitable property in the hopes of finding one by the time elections have come and gone.”

Nevertheless, sellers should not expect an instant turnaround in market conditions until a few months after the elections.

“ Why property markets slow down before elections According to National Top Sales Team and Team Leader of RE/MAX Infoglobe, Werner de Waal, it is not unheard of for the property market to reach a bit of a standstill leading up to a national election.

“Owing to the uncertainty that builds around this time, many investors prefer to keep their finances liquid until the future of the economy becomes more stable.”

“Sellers will have to keep this in mind when putting their property on the market over this period,” he says.

However, in de Waal’s opinion, having the election date set should help the market become slightly more active. “Without a specific date around which to work, many buyers choose to wait until they know when to expect more political certainty in our country. With the date set, we might begin to 32 | ISSU E 2 | 2 0 1 9 | T H E H I L L S E STAT E

The uncertainty that plagues investors over this period is not the results of the election themselves as much as it is the behaviour of the political parties leading up to and following the election. It is widely perceived that policy decisions tend to be more favourable leading up to an election and can change post-election. Investors, both foreign and local, are therefore likely to wait a few months, both leading up to and following an election period, to see if any policy changes come into effect that might affect their return on investment.

”

Foreign investor confidence is another factor during an election period which tends to slow down activity in the property market, he says. “Unsure of how citizens will react to election campaigns and election results, foreign investors tend to adopt a ‘wait-and-see’ approach when it comes to investing until they can be more certain of political stability in the country. This is why we also tend to have fewer foreign buyers and a drop in number of sales within the luxury market over this time.”

All things considered, de Waal encourages those who are even slightly optimistic about our future to take the plunge and invest now.

“Given that we are in a buyer’s market, it is likely that investors can pick up properties at lower prices now than if they wait for the election apprehension to subside,” says de Waal.

“Provided that all continues to run smoothly with these elections, as I predict it will, there truly has not been a better time to invest in South African real estate than right now.”

THE | HEALTH & WELLNESS

KEEP KIDS FLU FREE You may be surprised to learn that young children catch an average of six to eight colds a year. While there are more than 200 different viruses that can cause this infection, a culprit called rhinovirus is the most common. A child experiences a cold in much the same way as an adult does – with a sore throat, a runny nose, coughing and fatigue, to name a few of the symptoms. Kids are, however, more susceptible to developing a fever than adults.

Start strengthening your child’s immunity by adding herbs, supplements and good food for a flu-free winter.

GO FOR GUT GOLD Feed your child a healthy diet rich in veggies, whole grains, dairy-free yoghurt (coconut yoghurt is a good dairy-free option), fermented foods (such as kefir, kombucha and kimchi) and essential fatty acids (like fish and coconut oil). Avoid sugary foods and white flour wherever possible. This will provide the good bacteria that lead to a healthy gut and, in turn, a strong immune system.

HONE IN ON HERBS Herbs like elderberry, echinacea, mint, astralagus and honeysuckle are great for boosting the immune system. Mushrooms like reishi also help to support

the lungs. Include healing herbs in your child’s daily health regime in tincture, powder, tablet, syrup or tea form.

REMEMBER THE ABC’S You can proactively support and strengthen your child’s immune system by starting him or her on a good multivitamin right now. While vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc are well-known immune supporters, all of the vitamins and minerals are important in maintaining a strong and healthy system. Take extra vitamin C (over and above your multivitamin) as it really is the star performer when supporting immune function.

CHEW ON THIS Kids will more easily take fun, colourful vitamins.

Look out for the Ice Age theme packaging of the BrainChild Multivamin/Fish Oil combo pack. As the taste factor is of course also important, other favourites amongst the little ones include the Animal Parade Gold Multivitamin and PhytoMulti Kids chewables.

INCLUDE THE MAGIC THREE G’S Garlic, ginseng and ginger have been used for healing colds and flu throughout history. Garlic is a powerful antiviral that’s particularly effective in helping to open the sinuses. Ginseng is known to enhance immune response and keep the body strong through periods of illness. Ginger boasts nearly a dozen antiviral compounds, and contains the chemicals that specifically fight the rhinovirus.

Include this trio of powerful flu-fighters in your child’s diet and she’ll be back to good health in no time.

HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE Make sure your little one drinks plenty of water to help flush out toxins from the virus. This will also help clear congestion and prevent dehydration.

KEEP KIDS ACTIVE Although it’s tempting for even the little ones to curl up in the colder weather, moving their bodies helps boost immune function. Be playful with jump rope, dance-offs, rollerblading, trampolining, playing frisbee, and walking the dog.

For more information or to find natural flu solutions for your little ones, visit your local Wellness Warehouse or shop online at www.wellnesswarehouse.com.

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KNOW THE ESTATE RULES ON GENERATORS

With the recent and ongoing Eskom load shedding due to the electricity crisis in the Country, many requests have been received from residents enquiring whether generators are permitted on their properties in The Hills.

The HOA agrees that residents may install and use generators on their properties with the following conditions; • A generator may be installed that will create no more noise than a pool pump (a pool pump, although not really quiet, is something that most people can relate to). A general purpose residential pool pump noise level is 55 to 60db and this will be the upper limit of what will be allowed.

• No portable generators are permitted unless these are of the silent type and adhere to these rules.

• All generators installed must be concealed and not visible from the common property.

• A homeowner must supply a proposal as to how the generator will be soundproofed and give a commitment that the proposed noise level will be adhered to.

• All generators installed must be correctly installed by a qualified installer who must issue a certificate of compliance that it has been installed correctly.

• Generators may not cause a noise disturbance to any surrounding neighbour. Exhaust emissions must not affect neighbours or common property.

• The operating hours permitted is 06h00 to 22h00.

• Manual operation will be possible but if installed on automatic changeover then a timer must be installed to prevent inconveniencing neighbours outside of operating hours.

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• Be aware of the dangers regarding the installation of a generator where there is already a solar photovoltaic system installed or a backup / inverter / off-grid system installed and ensure that all equipment is installed and isolated correctly.

DIEP IN DIE BERG RESTAURANT...

Weekdays : Business Breakfast Tuesdays : Ribs & Red Wine Wednesdays : Sizzling Steak Night Thursdays : Tapas & Gin Experience Fridays : Burger Fridays Mondays - Thursdays : Pensioners Day 15% off T's & C's

WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR DINING EXPERIENCE

DIEP IN DIE BERG CONFERENCE & FUNCTION CENTRE ...has a beautiful modern reception venue as well as seven fully equipped conference venues that leads out onto neatly trimmed gardens and courtyard areas, uncapped internet and many indoor and outdoor breakaway areas.

Our breathtaking gardens with its tranquil water features are one of the many things that make our venue so charming. With over fifty indigenous trees, beautiful sunsets over the mountain and indoor and outdoor fire places, our clients can be sure that their next Conference, Special Event or Wedding will be an unforgettable experience.

INFO@DIEPINDIEBERG.COM | 012 807 4630

WHAT’S NEW | THE

WHAT IS HOT IN THE KITCHEN Large statement headboards

The kitchen is the busiest space in the house. Countless hours are spent here preparing meals and catching up on the highlights of everyone’s day, and when guests come over, it is here where a lot of the magic happens too. If you are in the mood to refresh this space, here are some of the top things experts say are trending at the moment: Statement taps This year taps are bold statement pieces in peuter, gunmetal, brass, black or chrome. Dramatic taps give instant depth and texture to a kitchen. While we’ve become accustomed to taps that deliver filtered water, get ready for next-level tap technology that offers instantly boiled or sparkling water too.

Rustic finishes Nature is making its way into the kitchen this year through raw, earthy materials like wood (oak and walnut), stone, granite, leather and quarts. The use of these materials in a number of ways like raw wood countertops, leather handles and stone cladding are making the home’s most loved space cosier and more welcoming than ever before.

Solid colour cabinetry Interesting colour choices such as hunter green, olive, navy or blush pink are making waves internationally. Black is also having a huge moment.

It seems it is time for a bit of drama in the kitchen!

The feature backsplash Don’t hold back with the backsplash. Backsplashes are being tiled to the ceiling creating a featured tiled wall. Large, statement slabs in marble are also popping up in stylish kitchens across the globe.

The smart kitchen It is all about making things easier in 2019.

Smart kitchens with smart appliances that make it easier and more convenient to cook and clean-up afterwards. No more countertop eyesores either.

Favourite kitchen-essentials (such as the coffee machine) are becoming part of a smarter layout and being built into the design.

HUNTER GREEN PAINT SWATCH BRUSHED GOLD CUTLERY SET

HERRINGBONE WALL TILE LA CAFETIERE FRENCH PRESS

SINK & HANDLES

BRASS METAL SHEETS USE AS BACKSPLASH FOR DRAMATIC EFFECT CONTACT LEE FOR HELP ON STYLING THIS LOOK LEE@STYLEDBYLEEDESIGNS.COM WWW.STYLEDBYLEEDESIGNS.COM 084 209 5825

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BRUSHED GOLD SINK TAP

hunter green & GOLD ELEGANT | STYLISH | SOPHISTICATED

DONT BE AFRAID TO PLAY WITH TEXTURES WOOD COUNTERS | MARBLE FLOORS

WOOD LIGHTING & FURNITURE

ESPRESSO CUP LOVE MILO

BLACK & WOOD MORPHY RICHARDS APPLIANCE SET

DRAMATIC | BOLD | MODERN

CONTACT LEE FOR HELP ON STYLING THIS LOOK LEE@STYLEDBYLEEDESIGNS.COM WWW.STYLEDBYLEEDESIGNS.COM 084 209 5825

SPOONS & BOARD ARK WORKSHOP

WANT THIS LOOK? CONTACT SBL

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ESTATE NEWS | THE

AIR CONDITIONING MADE SMARTER.

KEEPING YOU COOL IN SUMMER & WARM IN WINTER Let us help you create the ultimate comfort zone at your home or ofямБce with world renowned smart home product myair.

SMART AIR CONDITIONING ULTIMATE CUSTOMER SERVICE SMART LIGHTING LEADING BRANDS ENERGY EFFECIENT

Contact Jason

066 218 0136

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082 907 3864

THE | HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

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LOST

ESTATE NEWS | THE

Pets

There are several steps you can take to keep your pets safe and reduce the likelihood that they’ll become lost or stolen.

Your pet should wear a collar and ID tags at all times.

Include an up-to-date phone number where you can be reached. ID tags are available at Pet shops & veterinary clinics.

Have your pet microchipped.

Microchips are an implanted form of identification equipped to access your contact information when scanned at a veterinary clinic or shelter.

Spay/neuter your pet. Studies have shown that sterilized animals are less likely to roam.

PLEASE COMPLETE THE PET APPLICATION FORM

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Keep them safe when you’re out and about.

Animals love the outdoors but it is our responsibility to protect them. Always leash your animals when outside. Keep them close to home and away from traffic, unfamiliar animals and those who may not concern themselves with your pet’s best interests.

Leave them comfortable at home. Never leave your dog leashed outside a store or unattended in the car, even if it’s locked or the windows are rolled down.

THE | ESTATE NEWS

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HEALTH & WELLNESS | THE

STRESS & THE IMMUNE SYSTEM: Things you can do DAILY to boost your health!

Do you often contract a cold or cold sores? Have you ever wondered why you are more prone to catching a cold or flu compared to other people? While a weak or poor immune system is often given the flack for this, the cause or causes thereof are often overlooked. The largest contributor? Stress!

The immune system is incredibly intricate and made up of a network of cells, proteins, tissues and organs that 42 | ISSU E 2 | 2 0 1 9 | T H E H I L L S E STAT E

fight infections together. An immune system develops throughout our lives through exposure to different diseases. Over time our immune system starts to recognise antigens (toxins or foreign invaders that cause an immune response) earlier and are able to launch an attack before an antigen can reproduce.

Scientist are constantly researching immunity and finding new and interesting results. Important to note is the large role white blood cells play in the antigenfighting war. White blood cells are made in bone marrow

and constantly move through blood and tissue to attack bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi etc.

Another (perhaps more) important fact to note with regards to the immune is the role of gut bacteria. The good bacteria found in the gut have positive immune building effects that reach beyond the gut itself, and they even help to develop white blood cells. Did you know that 90% of serotonin is made in the gut? Serotonin is the chemical found in the brain that affects emotions and behaviour.

STRESS has a direct effect on the immune system on so many levels. When you stress, cortisol, the stress hormone, is released into the blood. Too much cortisol

THE | HEALTH & WELLNESS

leads to inflammation and a decrease in white blood cells. Because the gut is partly controlled by the central nervous system in the brain and the spinal cord, stress affects the gut too. Esophagus spasms, stomach cramps, diarrhea or constipation and an imbalance of gut bacteria are just some of the results of chronic stress.

antioxidants. Also include prebiotic and probiotic-rich foods into your diet. Prebiotics are food to the good bacteria in your gut and they are found in bananas, garlic, onions, broccoli, whole grains and more. Make sure you eat a variety of probiotics such as miso, sauerkraut, kimchi, yoghurt, kefir etc.

Cope better with stress and build you immune in the process through:

Sleeping: Our bodies heal during sleep. Sleep deprivation or a lack of quality sleep decreases your body’s ability to respond to antigens and invaders, leaving your body vulnerable to attacks. Poor sleep can also cause stress, and stress can in turn lead to difficulty sleeping. It becomes a vicious circle.

Exercising: Experts say that even a brisk 20-minutes walk three times a week will have a positive effect on your immune as it helps your white blood cells function better. Exercise also releases endorphins that help to boost sleep, destress and improve immunity. A daily walk around the block is therefore ideal.

Exercising, eating well and sleeping well should therefore be seen in unison.

Together these three activities could help give your immune the advantage it needs this winter.

Eating these fruits and vegs: Include fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants in your diet as they boost resistance to infections. Dark green, red, yellow or orange fruits and vegetables usually contain the most

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Photos of our Estate

THE | ESTATE NEWS

Whats App your Estate photos to 082 962 8255

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THE | ESTATE NEWS

Seasonal

Flowers Written by Clicking Daisies

These days, flowers are certainly not one of the smaller expenses of a wedding or any other special occasion.

By choosing flowers that are in season, and are, therefore, plentiful in supply and less expensive, you will not only save quite a bit of money but will also be able to have enough at your event to take your guests’ breath away.

Flowers are listed below according to season. Keeping in mind that availability may differ from region to region, use it as a basic guideline to choose flowers for your wedding.

BRILLIANT SUMMER Orange Daffodils | Calendulas | Dahlias | Arum lilies | Tiger lilies | Gerberas (Barberton Daisies) | Roses Pink Larkspurs | Azaleas | Roses | Jasmines | Tiger lilies Lisianthus | Sweet peas | Japonicas | Dahlias | Hydrangeas | Arum lilies | Proteas | Gerberas White Daisies | Roses | Sweet peas | Delphiniums | Lisianthus | Larkspurs | Cornflowers | Lilies of the valley | Hydrangeas | Arum lilies | Gardenias | Proteas Gerberas

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ESTATE NEWS | THE

Purple Lavender | Sweet peas | Larkspurs | Azaleas | Orchids Gerberas | Lisianthus | Roses

Orange Daffodils | Roses | Azaleas | Gerberas | Lilies Calendulas

Blue Delphiniums | Cornflowers | Hydrangeas

Purple Cornflowers | Water - lilies | Delphiniums | Azaleas English daisies | Gerberas | Roses | Sweet peas | Peonies | Jasmines

Yellow Azaleas | Daisies | Calendulas | Dahlias | Arum Lilies Gerberas | Roses

ROMANTIC AUTUMN Blue Morning glory flowers | Cornflowers

COLOURFUL SPRING Blue Cornflowers | Forget – me - nots | Bluebells Yellow Azaleas | Daisies | Tulips | Primulas | Buttercups Jasmines | Inca Lilies | Fruit-tree blossoms | Roses Gerberas | Roses Pink Larkspurs | Azaleas | Water-lilies | Jasmines | Cornflowers | Fruit – tree blossoms | English daisies Sweet peas | Peonies | Roses | Proteas | Gerberas White Peonies | Azaleas | Lilies of the valley | Roses | Arum lilies | Tulips | Sweet peas | Japonicas | Daisies | Calendulas | Jasmins | Proteas 48 | ISSU E 2 | 2 0 1 9 | T H E H I L L S E STAT E

Yellow Daffodils | Daisies | Dahlias | Lilies | Gerberas Hibiscuses | Calendulas | Roses Pink Delphiniums | Dahlias | Cornflowers | Gerberas Proteas | Roses | Lilies White Dahlias | Daisies | Gerberas | Japonicas | Azaleas Lilies | Delphiniums | Daffodils | Roses | Proteas Orange Dahlias | Gerberas | Daffodils | Lilies | Hibiscuses Roses Purple Lavender | Dahlias | Roses | Gerberas

THE | ESTATE NEWS

DRAMATIC WINTER Blue Orchids | Cornflowers | Yellow | Daffodils | Gerberas Daisies | Tulips | Poppies | Roses | Dahlias | Tulips Pink Azaleas | Orchids | Dahlias | Gerberas | Delphiniums Roses | Tulips | Proteas | Wax | Lilies White Orchids | Daffodils | Gerberas | Tulips | Daisies Japonicas | Proteas | Roses | Lilies | Wax Orange Poppies | Gerberas | Daffodils | Tulips | Orchids Lilies | Roses Purple Orchids | Lavender | Gerberas | Tulips | Irises | Roses

If you plan your wedding discuss your choice of flowers and colour scheme with your florist at least eight months before the wedding date and before you make any final choices. The florist will know if it will be at all possible to give you what you have selected.

Also discuss well in advance with the florist the different flower arrangements you want to have so as to ensure that you are greeted by colourful displays when you walk down the aisle.

Below is a checklist you can use to make sure there are no last-minute unexpected and perhaps unwanted surprises on your big day.

FLOWERS FOR THE BRIDAL PARTY • Bridal bouquet • Bridesmaid’s bouquets • Corsages for bridegroom, best men, parents and grandparents • Flower-girls posy or a flower basket with petals to strew in the aisle FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE CEREMONY • In front of the altar • In the entrance hall • On the marriage register table • Pew-end arrangements (flowers or candles) FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE RECEPTION • At the entrance to the reception venue • In the middle of each tablel • At the bar • On and at the buffet table • Where speeches will be made

Florists are talented and creative people who have the knowledge to help you choose the best flowers for your wedding. You will not regret it if you listen to their advice.

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