The Hills Estate | October 2022

effort

of content,

for future proof

“The induction stove is a

kind of electric cooktop that relies on induction technology

ensuring that your pots and pans are heated when

Your kitchen will look seamless and clutter-free as the

is entirely hidden. But the technology doesn’t stop there: induction stoves can now be controlled from your mobile device, to start preparing your food at the click of a button.” – Riette Fisser, sales design consultant.

“Effective organisation is key in the kitchen. With more and more people buying in bulk and avoiding frequent store runs since the start of COVID, an aesthetically stocked pantry is a home owner’s dream, but not everybody has the luxury of space for a full walk-in pantry. Pullout cabinets such as pantry larders are a great storage solution for a small kitchen, or even an add-on organiser for a kitchen with a larger layout.

“There are endless options on how you can use pullout cabinets since they work so well in just about every part of your kitchen. From strategically placed pullout spice racks to vegetable baskets. You can even use them to sort your garbage out of sight and smell- free.” – Audrey Selamolela, marketing director.

Turn a family meeting area

for any inaccurate information, and may not

be held

Organising your space Pullout cabinets

from the Estate Manager’s Desk

And spring has finally sprung as they say! It really is good to be looking forward to the warm and pleasant summer months lying ahead of us.

Quite a number of our residents took the opportunity to welcome the new season with the first Spring Fun Walk held at the Estate on Saturday, 24 September. The 5km morning walk started at the clubhouse and guided them on a brisk hike through the game reserve and back where everyone was treated to a well-deserved breakfast of yogurt, hot dogs, and cold drinks. We want to sincerely thank everyone who took part on the day. We will definitely be arranging more of these events so you can expect some more communication on this from our office in the future. Also, a big thank you is due to our landscaping service provider, The Garden Group, for their assistance with the arrangements and sponsorship of this initiative. Their team really made the day a highly enjoyable one for us.

We are also very pleased to announce that work on the newly constructed mountain bike trail in the reserve has been completed recently. This trail is ready for use by all of our mountain biking enthusiasts. The trail consists of two butterfly loops of 1.3km and 2.1km and it is easily accessible from the pedestrian gate right opposite the Hummingbird Street T-junction. The trail routes are also clearly marked with signage indicating the direction. It was designed in such a way that it can be enjoyed by young and old alike while still providing a bit of technicality in certain places. I would appreciate any feedback you have about the trails. Please let me know what you think.

While spending time in the game reserve, also be on the lookout for our new herd of red hartebeest. This herd was delivered to the Estate at the end of September. The

newly arrived family consists of a bull and five cows. We are quite excited to have these beautiful animals added to our already impressive collection of the game at The Hills. The red hartebeest is the most colourful of the hartebeest species, with black markings contrasting its white abdomen and behind.

It has complex curving horns joined at the base and its average shoulder height is +/-135cm. They have an excellent sense of hearing and smell, although their sense of sight is rather poor. When alarmed, hartebeests quickly flee reaching speeds of up to 55km/h. Their evasion tactic is to create confusion by running in a zig-zag pattern which makes it difficult for predators to catch them. The red hartebeest is primarily found in different parts of south-western Africa and they prefer open plains and shrubland. Our Estate’s ecological composition, therefore, provides the ideal habitat for them to thrive in.

Please stay safe and well and enjoy reading the rest of our newsletter. We’ll be seeing you in and around the Estate!

Murray Retief

Realising that there was a rapid decline in owl numbers and that owls had become one of the most common wildlife casualties brought into veterinary practices, Brendan Murray and his wife, Danelle, decided ten years ago to focus all their efforts on conserving them. The organisation they founded, Owl Rescue Centre, is based at Hartbeespoort in the North West Province, and now takes in more than a thousand owls every year through their rescue efforts. The owls are rehabilitated and when they can survive on their own in the wild, are released in the sanctuary – a farm which is located within a 12,000-hectare conservancy.

Owl Rescue Centre is a registered Non-profit company and permitted rehabilitation facility concerned with the well-being of all owl species and wildlife in Southern Africa.

Owl Rescue Centre is dedicated to protect owls, rescue owls that are in danger and rehabilitate and care for owls that have been injured, are sick, poisoned or orphaned and then release them back into their natural environment using

specifically researched release methods. We are also involved in several conservation projects to decrease the high mortality rate of owl species.

Owl Rescue Centre’s vision is that through increased understanding of the owl’s true character, the fears and misgivings that often surround peoples’ perceptions of owls will be replaced by tolerance and respect for these unique birds.

We follow a philosophy of minimal human interference to nature’s natural means. We nurture owls when they need us, but we allow them to stay wild and return to their natural habitat when they no longer require our assistance.

Most owl species hunt and are active at night and are seldom observed by humans. Because of this nocturnal (night-time) existence, they are little known and often misunderstood, even though some owls live their entire lives in close proximity to man.

Owl Rescue Centre creates awareness among communities helping them to understand that owls share our natural habitat and play an important role in the ecological system. The education is aimed to give insight to the misperceptions people have about owls and to inform them that owls pose no threat to human beings. Owl Rescue Centre’s education is based on the principle of respect for all living creatures, no matter how big or small, they each serve a purpose in our interconnected and interdependent existence.

CLICK TO BOOK AN OWL TALK

When Brendan and Danelle aquired the farm now known as the Owl Sanctuary, their dream was to secure a place for the owls where they would be protected and looked after, a piece of habitat that would always belong to them.

The Sanctuary is the only one of its kind in the world. Owls can be observed visiting the various feeding platforms around the Sanctuary every single night. Many have taken up residency in the Owl Houses erected on the farm, where they breed year after year.

Brendan and Danelle, following a life-long passion for the protection of wildlife, are committed to the conservation of vulnerable species and have dedicated their lives to the cause.

Brendan Patrick Murray spent most of his young life observing and studying birds. He came to the realization many years ago that owls specifically need help to protect them from becoming endangered, and so Owl Rescue Centre was born. Brendan has been involved in wildlife conservation for more than 30 years. He started his initial field studies in the Okavango Delta in Northern Botswana where he researched several species of birds of prey, studying their hunting and breeding behaviour, their habitat and possible threats to their conservation. Since then, Brendan has succesfully rescued, rehabilitated and released thousands of different species of wildlife and is internationally renowned as a specialist in his field and one of the most knowlegable persons on owl conservation in the world.

Everything starts out small, but has the potential to grow into something big.

The Spekboom Project was started by 8-yearold Rebecca Murray, daughter of the founders of the organisation, Brendan and Danelle Murray. Rebecca is a passionate young conservationist who have been growing Spekboom plants for the past year, ever since she found out how it could benefit the planet. She then suggested that other people start planting them too and that the plants are sold to raise funds for the owls.

The benefits of Spekboom

• Spekboom absorbs up to 10 times more pollution than any other plant.

• Spekboom is edible? It is delicious in salads, makes great smoothies and is a favourite among animals.

• Spekboom is indigenous to South Africa

• Spekboom is water-wise & easy to grow.

We recommend planting Spekboom in gardens, building complexes, urban areas, corporate estates and school grounds. Spekboom should never replace other indigenous plants or be planted in natural areas where it may hinder or disturb area specific flora.

Approximately 120 Spekboom plants completely offset your personal carbon footprint.

SUPPORT THE

Order procedure:

Please make payment to Owl Rescue Centre

NPC, Nedbank Current Account 103 081 9580 Branch Code 198 765 Reference: SB & your full name. Then, send your proof of payment along with your delivery address and contact number to info@owlrescuecentre.org.za

Collection Address: Owl Sanctuary, Farm 448 Bokfontein Hartbeespoort 0250. Please contact 082 719 5463 for access.

Monday to Friday - 8am to 5pm. Weekends until 3pm.

Delivery in Johannesburg & Pretoria is offered free of charge to orders over 50 plants. R100 delivery fee apply to all other orders.

If you are located outside of these areas, please send us an email to info@owlrescuecentre.org. za for a quotation on courier fees.

*Please note: There is a waiting period on all deliveries. We work on a turn-around time of 10 - 15 working days. If you cannot wait for a delivery, please feel free to collect at our Centre.

Plantsstartfrom

Charlotte

Dragonflies in the garden

You know summer’s in swing when the dragonflies come out to play! These glorious goggas are in fact not dangerous at all and are actually superb pest controllers with a most captivating twist. Watching these elegant insects dance around the pool is such a lovely sight indeed! Let’s discover more about this curious creature.

By life is a garden

So why are they called dragonflies?

According to Romanian folklore, St. George went to battle and wounded a dragon while fighting on his horse. His horse was then cursed and turned into a giant flying insect, which is why ‘dragonfly’ translates to ‘devil’s horse’ in Romanian. Cursed horse or not, all we know is that the dragonfly is far from doomed and only adds value to gardens everywhere. They live on every continent but Antarctica and are welcomed for their helpfulness and grace.

A dragonfly feast

These superb hunters help to keep the fly and mozzie population in check by grabbing them with their feet and then munching away during flight. Dragonflies are excellent fliers – they can fly up and down or hover like a helicopter. Most other flying goggas don’t stand a chance against this agile hunter. A single dragonfly can eat between 30 to 100 mosquitoes in a day! There’s certainly no need for bug spray with these guys around.

Homing a magic dragon

Dragonflies need a fresh water source for the female to lay her eggs. She does this by dipping her abdomen into water immediately after mating. If you don’t have a swimming pool, they would appreciate a little water feature or birdbath too. Dragonflies are harmless to human’s and they do not bite or sting. Besides being excellent insect hunters, they are also a very important food source for other predators such as birds and fish. Just like the frog, the appearance of dragonflies in the garden is an excellent indicator of the overall health and balance of your ecosystem.

There really is no need to sho away these gorgeous goggas! They bring such lovely summer vibes to the backyard and are only there to help us out. All they ask in return is for a little fresh water and perhaps some more admiration from us all. They are a valuable part of the food chain and reward us with less mozzies and more pool party amazement!

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Take your home to the next level today.

Loadshedding tips:

• Beware of higher fire risks due to alternative methods of lighting and cooking.

• Beware of smash and grabs, and hijackings.

• Plan for traffic congestion.

• Look out for pedestrians.

• Reduce toilet flushing to help avoid sewer overflows if pump stations are without power for a long time.

• Keep a bit of cash for when ATMs don’t work.

• Keep gas lights, battery-powered torches, and candles for easy use.

• Check that the backup battery for electric gates, garage doors and security systems is working and will last through load shedding.

• Intersections are four-way stops when the robots are off.

• Keep fuel in the vehicle’s tank.

• Ensure cellphones and devices are charged.

• Prepare water ahead of load shedding and keep it in a flask.

• Keep clean water close at hand.

• Medication requiring refrigeration can be kept in a closed fridge for several hours without spoiling but check with your doctor or pharmacist if in doubt.

• You can contact your security company for assistance.

• Look out for the vulnerable members of the community.

• Make sure you have a family and work contact plan in place.

• Switch off electric appliances ahead of load shedding to avoid power surges and extended

outages when the power comes back on.

• Switch off and unplug appliances and chargers when not in use.

• Lower the geyser temperature to 60 degrees.

Access control:

We have noted that since the My Estate Life app was discontinued, many residents allow visitors with their biometric access (fingerprints). This is not allowed and causes many arguments between the security officers and the residents and their visitors. We also noticed that when a husband and wife are driving together, the wife normally gets out of the vehicle and opens the gates with her biometric access (fingerprints) as the husband is not registered anymore on the system. Please contact the HOA and make arrangements to have your biometric access (fingerprints) reactivated

I thank you for respecting our security officers and assisting them when needed.

Best of wishes

Markus Welthagen

The

Tyger Valley College

Tyger Valley College is an independent, combined school of excellence in the Pretoria East area. The School provides outstanding facilities and qualified, dedicated teachers who fulfil the needs of each pupil in a sensitive, caring manner.

Tyger Valley College offers a balanced programme of academic, cultural and sporting pursuits!

tstarts

Spring Fun Walk on

What a great way to start your Heritage Day! 8am the on the 24th of September; a fun walk was arranged by; the garden group, the fun walk entailed a 5km walk through our beautiful estate while a tasty Boerie waited at the finishing line.

Many of our residents joined in the fun! Exchanging greetings and smiles it was great to see how it brought our community together, giving us all a chance to enjoy the great weather and experience all the beauty our estate has to offer!

We would like to thank all the residents who joined the fun walk, and the garden group for arranging such a fun event, it was a great success, looking forward to next years’ fun walk!

Why gardens andbraais sell houses?

By Gaynor Siljeur

Spring has sprung and with that South Africans will once again be heading outdoors as much as possible. We are known for our sunshine and braais, and this is often a key consideration when buyers and tenants look for properties according to the Seeff Property Group.

While the accommodation, features and finishes of the property play a key role in the buyer’s decision to put in an offer, the garden and braai facilities are almost universally a decider. A nice garden and outdoor or under roof braai facilities is a strong selling point and adds value and desirability.

The pandemic has driven more people back to outdoor spaces and we have seen this in the exodus to houses with more garden space where they can enjoy a lifestyle in a secure setting. It is also one of the reasons for the growth in estates with open spaces.

The garden is usually the first thing that potential home buyers see when they visit a property. An attractive garden immediately sets the tone for the buyer. The garden should be impeccably neat and well maintained.

Buyers do not want to have the hassle of having to clean up the yard and garden when they move in. Therefore when evaluating two similar

homes, the one with a nice garden will inevitably win the day. An established and neat garden makes your property more attractive, but it does not have to be landscape. While landscaping is usually a feature of high value homes, it is not a prerequisite. Today’s garden centres provide so much assistance for novice gardeners.

A recent study done in the UK study (sellhousefast. uk) incorporating responses from property professionals and landscapers shows that in addition to a well-kept garden adds value some 76% of respondents noted that a good quality patio was also a big selling point.

In the South African context, we know that a braai patio is an important feature that many look for. It is not unusual to find that some new apartment developments now have the option of a built-in braai on the patios or communal braai facilities.

The UK research though found that artificial grass or lawn can be off-putting. While this was a trend during the Cape Town drought, buyers often still prefer real grass, unless they are specifically looking for a low-maintenance garden according to Seeff’s agents.

Even in a small complex or apartment, you can still add some gardening to your life. Indoor and container gardening has made a huge comeback. If you do not have floor space for pots, you can always hang them, or consider a vertical garden, another major housing trend.

Bear in mind that different plants thrive in different environments. Consult your local garden centre for what will be suitable to grow in your area. According to Keith Kirsten, South Africa’s favourite gardener who also designed late President Nelson Mandela’s garden, planting indigenous ensures sustainability, even during a drier season.

Lastly, Seeff’s rental agents recommend that if you are investing in a rental or want to rent out your own property and there is a landscaped or nice garden, you retain a garden service and include the cost in the rental to ensure it is wellmaintained and preserved.

https://www.gardenandhome.co.za/recipes/braai/why-gardens-andbraais-sell-houses/

For most people, a home is the largest purchase they'll make in their lifetime.

At Moremi kitchens,having been in the cabinetry industry since 2007, we understand how daunting a home renovation can be, both financially and emotionally.

We work closely with our clients throughout the design process to ensure their finished kitchen not only fulfills but exceeds all requirements.

In addition to our three showrooms, Moremi Kitchens employs the very best designers. While we stay abreast of world wide trends, our designs are timeless. We encourage in-depth at home consultations, where clients go through our full spectrum of colours and finishes until we create your dream kitchen 3D render for your approval. Our team is dedicated to delivering excellence while taking your project from concept to actualisation.

Let Moremi kitchens transform your living space.

Showrooms:

Centurion

Rustenburg

Polokwane (opening soon)

for future proof kitchen

Tech – Induction Stove

“The induction stove is a unique kind of electric cooktop that relies on induction technology and is installed beneath your countertop ensuring that your pots and pans are heated when placed directly above the induction plates. Your kitchen will look seamless and clutter-free as the cooking area is entirely hidden. But the technology doesn’t stop there: induction stoves can now be controlled from your mobile device, to start preparing your food at the click of a button.” – Riette Fisser, sales design consultant.

Organising your space

Pullout cabinets

“Effective organisation is key in the kitchen. With more and more people buying in bulk and avoiding frequent store runs since the start of COVID, an aesthetically stocked pantry is a home owner’s dream, but not everybody has the luxury of space for a full walk-in pantry. Pullout cabinets such as pantry larders are a great storage solution for a small kitchen, or even an add-on organiser for a kitchen with a larger layout.

“There are endless options on how you can use pullout cabinets since they work so well in just about every part of your kitchen. From strategically placed pullout spice racks to vegetable baskets. You can even use them to sort your garbage out of sight and smell- free.” – Audrey Selamolela, marketing director.

Turn a family meeting area

“When creating an inviting space , it’s important to create areas that enable the entire family to gather while cooking, eating, working, or simply relaxing and chilling out. Incorporate a breakfast nook, dining table extension or bay window reading nook.

“Moremi Kitchens teamed up with the Flipping Johannesburg team to transform this kitchen. The island is the focal point, with a raised breakfast nook and stark white quartz for a touch of luxury.” – Briton Selamolela, sales director.

Gauteng 15 Cloud Street, Westhills Business Estate, Sunderland Ridge 010 023 0729 info@moremikitchens.co.za

Learn the secret to overcoming bad habits

Written by: Wellness Warehouse

Think about the last time you decided to make an essential change in your life. Maybe you decided to start a new eating plan or train for a specific sporting event. Was it easy to change your habits and routine to accommodate the change? Were there days when you just wanted to give up? Were there aspects of the ‘old you’ or your ‘old life’ that you missed?

When we want to make changes in our lives, we are very quickly reminded of the gap between where we are and where we want to be. Some days that gap feels bigger than others, which can be overwhelming. Why Change is Hard

For most of us, change can be tough. You remain a prisoner to your embedded daily behaviours, otherwise known as habits. Often, your day-today life is not more than a series of repetitive habits or learnt behaviours which provide structure and familiarity.

Good or bad, we all have habits, some very much in our conscious awareness whilst others are hidden in our blind spots, acted out on autopilot. Irrespective, the reality is that your daily habits are either taking you towards or away from your goals. Over a lifetime it determines the difference between the life you desired and the life you lived. We are what we repeatedly do.

Therefore, learning to break bad habits and replace them with new habits is a crucial success factor to change and long-term success and thus an important focus area in health coaching.

The challenge is that habits’ automatic, unconscious nature makes it difficult for you to notice when you are doing

something habitually. For this reason, the first step to changing your habits is becoming aware of them and then consciously choosing to do something else. How to Break Bad Habits

Identifying bad habits you want to break and new ones you want to create is one thing; releasing their grip on you is another. All habits serve you in some way, even the bad ones, which is why you repeat them. To change a pattern, you must first understand what you are getting from the habit and what need it serves.

This is where health coaching can help – a health coach will help you:

• understand how habits form,

• uncover your blind spots and

• set goals to replace old habits with new ones

A health coach will also

assist you in gaining a deeper understanding of your habitual behaviours and triggers. This understanding can help you learn how to interrupt the pattern with a new chosen behaviour until it becomes second nature.

Before change can happen, a moment of brutal self honestly is required regarding your habits and the resulting cost to your health and wellbeing. To assist you in breaking bad habits, a health coach will help you realise any positive connection you may have associated with them and reinforce the negatives of keeping that habit, to assist you in moving away from it.

Change takes time, as does breaking a bad habit and learning a new one. Reach out to a health coach to help make it easier for you.

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We Need to Talk About… Parental Burnout

By Dr Stanley Arumugam Wellness Warehouse

Parenting during recent years

has been especially difficult, with many parents reporting symptoms of burnout but feeling too guilty to talk about it.

McKinsey reports that the stress of working from home added to the seemingly unrelenting responsibilities of caring for children and families has been overwhelming for many working parents, some of whom describe feeling as if they are ‘losing it’ or ‘going crazy’ under all the pressure.

A more recently studied phenomenon, parental burnout is a specific syndrome resulting from enduring exposure to chronic parenting stress, and characterised by emotional, physical and mental exhaustion; lowered feelings of fulfilment, and detachment from loved ones, especially children.

Factors Leading to Parental Burnout

Over the years, we have learned to cope with, and prevent, workplace or vocational burnout. Usually, a time of leave, psychotherapy, selfcare or a change in the work environment can help. However we have yet to develop coping mechanisms for the equally widely experienced yet less addressed burnout related to parenting.

The Covid pandemic amplified the stress and strain of everyday parenting in several unique ways:

• Suddenly, millions of parents had to become home-school teachers.

Many parents ill-equipped to manage this responsibility were left feeling inadequate and overwhelmed.

• Parents were left caring for children full-time while trying to do their day jobs.

This double demand has been distressing, especially for working mothers and single parents who carry significant family care responsibilities.

• Parents were stuck at home.

Marital and family tensions were amplified during this time, leading to increased irritation, annoyance, and sometimes even aggression at home.

• Many parents had to deal with traumatic loss and grief.

Many households experienced loss through death in their immediate or extended families or social circles. Grieving was often also incomplete and delayed, due to Covid restrictions and family separations.

While the world has returned to a closer semblance of ‘normal’ since the months of lockdown, many parents have yet to address and overcome the symptoms of the heightened burnout they may have experienced during this time.

Signs and Symptoms of Parental Burnout

• Social isolation and withdrawing from others

• Losing interest in activities once enjoyed

• Feelings of exhaustion or lethargy

• Feeling hopeless and as if ‘trapped’

• Feeling excessive sadness, irritability, or anxiety

• Sleep problems and changes in appetite

• Noticing you have a shorter temper

• Feeling as though any new or additional task could put you over the edge

• Not wanting to be touched or needing to be alone

• Feeling resentful (toward children, your partner, or the world)

• Feeling guilty about taking time out

Coping Strategies

Don’t be afraid to talk about it Parenting stress and burnout are real experiences, and needn’t be accompanied by

guilt or shame. Reach out to trusted friends, your partner, your family or a mental health professional for support.

Be compassionate with yourself

Understand that parenting can be hard, and that you are doing your best. Release the word ‘should’ from your self-talk. No one will ever feel as if they are doing enough or getting things ‘just right’.

Take a break

Find creative ways to incorporate moments of reprieve into your daily, weekly and monthly routine. This can be as simple as enjoying a quiet cup of tea in the afternoon sun, or as exciting as taking a holiday with just your partner or friends.

Examine your thinking

Are you stuck in catastrophising mode or negative thought spirals that are making the situation at hand feel even worse? Becoming aware of and verbalising or writing down your thoughts in a way that helps you to examine whether they are true, useful or necessary can be the first step in helping you to manage ongoing stressors.

Seek professional psychological help

This is particularly important if you are feeling depressed, anxious or experiencing suicidal ideation.

Find meaning

Spirituality or a sense of something greater than oneself and one’s daily life can bring perspective to our suffering and loss of control. Meditation and contemplative practices can be particularly grounding, and are readily available online.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr Stanley Arumugam is a psychologist, coach and pastor. Email dr.stanley.arumugam@gmail. com to get in touch.

TOYOTA COROLLA CROSS GETS THE GR-S TREATMENT

The latest model to receive the GR treatment in Toyota’s line-up is the ever-popular Corolla Cross. This locally-built crossover was brought to market in the final quarter of 2021 and became an instant success story, frequently topping the passenger-vehicle sales charts, while also being crowned as South African Car of the Year (SA COTY).

As part of the continued expansion of the Gazoo Racing (aka GR) brand, the Corolla Cross is the latest model to be adorned with the GR badge.

Exterior Design

The Corolla Cross GR-S features a bespoke exterior package with a revised front grille, finished in gloss black, which now extends towards the headlamp assembly. The lower apron too is finished in gloss black along with the signature ‘GR Mesh’. A further differentiator versus the ‘normal’ Corolla Cross, are the vertical air ducts which incorporate compact fog lamp units. A strong horizontal cross bar and large Toyota insignia complete the bold façade.

Black exterior mirrors are paired with a black roof (creating a bi-tone design) and black roof rails to create a side profile with attitude. The rear calls upon a black roof spoiler, black tailgate trim and blacked-out rear bumper diffuser to echo the GR theme. The package is completed by a GR badge affixed to the rear.

Three exterior colours are offered, which match the GR brand colours: Arizona Red Bi-Tone, Chromium Silver Bi-Tone and Glacier White Bi-Tone.

Interior Design

The elegant simplicity and superb ergonomics of the Corolla Cross cabin is retained while adding a dose of flair. The interior features stylish black leather trim throughout - replete with GR embossing on the headrest - which plays perfectly to the GR theme with the addition of red contrast stitching and red perforation. These details are complemented by a red accent stripe on the instrument panel and piano black surface detailing. A chunky 3-spoke steering wheel with red stitching and piano black inserts, falls easily to the driver’s hands.

Ride & Handling

Under the skin, new shock absorbers and revised coil springs provide amp up the handling performance without detracting from ride comfort. This is supplemented by a recalibrated power steering module (EPS) - to deliver more responsive handling, steering wheel feedback and cornering prowess. The rolling stock comprise unique 18” black alloy wheels shod with 225/50/R18 tyres.

Engine & Drivetrain

The Corolla Cross GR-S employs the existing 1.8-litre 2ZR-FE petrol engine, coupled to a CVT transmission with seven pre-programmed ‘steps’ to simulate a close-ratio transmission in manual shifting mode. It delivers 103 kW and 172 Nm while sipping just 6.8 l/100 km on the combined cycle.

Specification & Features

Using the Xr grade as a base, the standard specification is substantial. Keyless entry, poweradjustable and auto-retractable exterior mirrors, all-round one-touch power windows, LED lighting units, Cruise Control, TFT Multi-Information Display (MID), dual-zone climate control, reverse camera, Park Distance Control (PDC), rain-sensing wipers and LED interior Illumination are all on-board. The infotainment system is of the touchscreen variety while supporting smartphone connectivity and offering multiple USB inputs.

Safety & Security

The Corolla Cross GR-S is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which offers a full suite of active safety aids including Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Trace Assist (LTA) and Pre-Collision System (PCS). These are joined by the obligatory ABS, VSC, EBD, Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Brake Assist systems, as well as passive safety aids such as ISOFIX and a full airbag array.

Model Line-up & Pricing

Corolla Cross 1.8i GR-S - R 453,200

Peace of Mind

All Corolla Cross models are sold with a 6-services/90 000 km service plan (intervals set at 15 000 km) and 3-year/100 000km warranty. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).

All Toyota models come equipped with Toyota Connect, including a complimentary 15 Gb in car WiFi allocation, vehicle telematics and enhanced user features via the MyToyota app.

Celebrate legendary durability, capability and mastery with the all-new Land Cruiser 300.

Built to traverse any terrain with ease and with relentless off-road ability, it’s no surprise that it’s titled The Master of Africa. Fitting for any legendary driver looking for legendary adventures. Book your test drive today at toyota.co.za

Model Shown: 3.5T V6 ZX

Mooikloof

ULTIMATE PET CARE

Family is the centre of a home.

It is the single reason why we design and build homes: To bring the people we love together.

Happy

HOUSE & TRAIL

Just a few minutes from here, in the Village of Irene, is the JAN SMUTS HOUSE MUSEUM. What a wonderful way to spend a day! There is the historic house itself which is full of letters, photographs, citations, medals, books, maps and mementoes from three wars; and an arboretum to explore, scenic walks to take, bywoners’ graves to intrigue, birds to spot, and Ouma Isie’s Tea Garden where one can sit beside a pomegranate tree and enjoy their signature dish of cream scones!

Smuts’ House is one of the oldest buildings in the area, having been erected as a dwelling on the farm Doornkloof in 1909. It was a prefabricated structure made in England and shipped to India as a Mess Hall for the Army there. It was subsequently dismantled and shipped to Middelburg in South Africa where General Smuts purchased it. It was then railed to Pretoria and delivered to the farm by ox-wagon. This humble home – freezing in winter, boiling in summer - was to be the family home until 1954. Smuts entertained many world leaders here including the British Royal Family on their 1947 tour of South Africa. It is interesting how this unpretentious building strikingly illustrates Smuts’s indifference to luxury and ease of living.

The Museum was home to Smuts and his family for over 40 years. It is a unique museum that reveals much about the life and spirit of this great statesman. Smuts served his country as a freedom fighter in the Anglo Boer War, and was a Member of the British War Cabinet in World War I and World War II. Winston Churchill said of him “He was one of the most enlightened, courageous and noble-minded men of the 20th century…. a man who fought for his country but who thought for the whole world”. In addition to

the military artifacts, there is an Armstrong gun in the grounds, as well as a Honey tank and Smuts’ Cadillac.

A guided tour can be booked in advance –012 670 6016/76. info@smutshouse.co.za.

‘The Oubaas Trail’ is a 2,3km circular walk up the koppie adjoining the house. Dogs can be let off the lead for part of the trail. The koppie has interesting grasses and flowers and boasts a bird list of 160 species.

The Friends of Smuts (FoSH)

‘The Friends’ is a voluntary organization dedicated to supporting the Museum and in promoting the vision of the General Smuts Foundation (GSF). It is an Incorporated Association not for Gain and is affiliated to the Wildlife and Environmental Society of South Africa (WESSA). Its members are involved in arranging regular cultural activities at the Museum and in developing the grounds. Events include guided bird and nature walks, monthly supper talks on various topics usually relevant to Smuts and the environment. Annual membership fees go a long way towards helping with the upkeep and refurbishment of Smuts House, which is costing an increasingly substantial amount of money to maintain. FoSH has about 100 members and membership cost an annual fee of R220 for single- and R330 for family- membership.

Attendance at the monthly Supper Talks is usually R120 for members and R150 for non-members, ± 50 to 60 people attend these talks regularly. We have some very interesting topics and there is always a good meal before the talk. On nice

summer evenings we can sit out in the tea garden under the stars for dinner and then go into the little lapa (beside the house itself) for the talks themselves. The evenings are very pleasant!

SMUTS HOUSE MUSEUM

Opening hours:

Daily from Tuesday to Sunday 09:00 – 16:00. The gate opens for walkers from 07:00.

Admission fees: R50 for adults R30 for pensioners and children.

Hiking/Dog walking: R10 per hiker and dogwalker.

Parking charge: R10 per car at weekends for secure parking.

Guided tours: Can be booked on request – (012) 670 9016

Facilities include : Ouma Isie’s Tea Garden Restaurant: open daily (except Mondays).

The Oubaas Walking Trail, a circular walk of 2,3km up to the Koppie and Smuts’ Monument (dogs can be let off the lead for part of the trail).

An arboretum and Place of Quiet. picnic spots, caravan park.

Events: Regular Bird and Nature Walks. Supper talks once a month. The marquee can be rented out for weddings or events.

Friends of Smuts Hse: Enquiries: confplan@iafrica.com / 012 667 4924

Cilla Taylor, 66 Queen Street, Irene, 0157 South Africa

Tel: 27 (0)12 667-4924, confplan@iafrica.com

BOOK TODAY

www.smutshouse.co.za

HARRY

The Hairy Field spider

By Michelle Labuschagne

This little spider fascinates me, so I wanted to share it with you. Since around a month ago, he has lived outside our bathroom window. He breaks down his web every morning at sunrise and rebuilds it every evening at sunset. It’s a hairy field spider, and we’ve named him Harry! He is harmless and eats all the mosquitoes that are trying to get into our home. Though I’m not a spider fan, since we live in an Eco Estate it’s worthwhile to see these little critters and learn about them before killing them.

Hairy Field/Bark Spider (Family Araneidae)

These small spiders are common in gardens and around human settlements and are also often encountered when out hiking. These spiders make messy webs at night between vegetation, often taking down their web in the early morning and rebuilding them again at night.

They are usually grey or brown in colour and have a very hairy appearance. They blend well

I AM HARRY THE HAIRY FIELD SPIDER & A HARMLESS SPIDER!

against the bark of trees. Some of the field spiders may have a red marking under the abdomen.

They are harmless to humans and pets.

Maximum size 6 - 25 mm

from the Gym Manager

A BIG hello to everybody in the estate, Stefan writing to you – the newly appointed manager of the hills’s fitness centre. It’s been nothing but a pleasure to be part of the management team of this facility.

It has been an incredible start to the season and we hope to continue the momentum with a variety of events, classes, and fun community projects. Our spring celebration was FUNtastic last month. We brought pilates classes back, introduced a new bootcamp style class and added swim lessons to our list of offerings.

Soon we will be bringing in health meals from Munch measured meals and loads of other wellness and health focused products. These will help you stay in shape and look after yourself

Excited to see everybody around!

Kind regards Stefan.

Smalls

AUPAIR

• Micaela is an excellent Au pair, currently looking after kids within The Hills Estate. She picks up the kids, helps with homework and takes them to extra murals, games etc. She’s very patient & great with kids. Contact her on 082 333 5431 or Contact Chuma on 0763937989 for reference.

BABY SITTING

• Babysitting / homework Assistance Gr1-4 contact Lihandi van der Linden on 083 643 0865

BUILDING/ CONTRACTORS

• Contact Meadowdine group for Skip Bins, Chemical Toilets, Hut Hire and more. Tel 079 736 8006 / 067 400 9720

CLEANING SERVICES

• Are you tired of your dirty windows? Then let us sparkle your windows. LNC is an expert in professional high-rise window cleaning services, catering for all types of properties. Contact NS Malepe 072 651 19471 / makua. malepe@gmail.com.

• Weekly pool cleaning at a monthly cost of R600 - ALL chemicals included. Contact 083 278 8720.

• Looking for Someone to clean your Carpets, We have used Dries before for Carpet Cleaning and we highly recommend his services. Contact him on 083 299 8569

• Carpet Cleaning, Rugs, Sofa’s and Car Valet, we also collect & drop off after wash 079 093 2873 or 067 400 9720.

• Pureglaze Window cleaning 082 775 2862 or 076 852 1229 or email tom@pureglaze.co.za

DESIGN / HOSTING

• Affordable hosting solutions, web and graphic design services for small and medium sized businesses. www.lemoen.co.za

• For all your Graphic Design and printing, E-mail Tobia@k-studio.co.za for a competitive quote.

DOMESTIC WORKER

• My domestic worker Lizzy, is looking for employment for one or two days a week. She has been with me for nearly 15 years and is very reliable, honest, hardworking and loyal.

She also works for another family in the Hills. My name is Jacques and I can be contacted on 0827117466 for a reference. My stand number is 402.

EDUCATION / LEARNING

• IKI KIDS sells STEAM educational products including Robotics and Coding Kits. 081 517 9589 or http://www.ikikids.co.za/

• Learn to Swim, contact Annette 072 128 2689 from Jolly Waters Swim School Situated in Grootfontein.

• English and Science Tutor available in Pretoria East. Complete IEB NSC Bachelor’s Degree Pass in 2020. Year-round achievements at Reddford House The Hills. Currently studying BSc Biological and Agricultural Sciences (2nd Year in 2022). Tutoring and Pick-up from school can be arranged. Tutoring at R120 per hour. Contact details 0834158235/ mokgadi. violinist@gmail.com for full CV.

• I am a qualified teacher with 30 years of experience. I offer Afrikaans First Additional Language extra classes to learners from Gr.3 - 12 and would also like to be of service to learners in the Hills. Lida Cronje 082 558 3631

ELECTRICITY / SOLAR / WATER

• Ikigai engineering: We do solar water heating and backup and hybrid solar solutions for homes. http://www.ikigaiengineering.co.za/ or 081 517 9589

• Trustworthy Electrician based in Mooikloof Ridge: Contact Ian +27 79 587 8800

• Contact Marius on 082 559 8859. Doing Electrician work in the Estate. Satisfaction guaranteed!

• Electrician Contact Basie on 082 699 9107

FOOD

• Samosas, springrolls, chutney & pickles sold to order. Contact Devaksha Maharaj WhatsApp 081 517 9589 or email devaksha.maharaj@ gmail.com, stand number is 482.

• I am selling raw honey at R80 a bottle or Honey and Rusks at R140 Contact Gladiola 0721915097 Free delivery for the hills residents and R80 courier anywhere else in Gauteng.

• Artisan Air-roasted coffee beans/ground by Airabica Roasters! Free delivery in The Hills. Priced from R110-R330. Contact Duncan 082 440 9174 or orders@airabica.co.za

GARDENING/ LANDSCAPE

• R40 per 30kg bag of Manure. Delivery on Saturdays. Boost your garden, grass and veggies with our Manure. Contact 0794964525 to order.

• Top soil or compost delivered to your doorstep. 2m³ at only R1,680 delivery included. Bigger quantities are also available. Pieter 082 551 6670

GAS SUPPLIERS

• Frank collects and supply gas cylinders in the Estate, contact him on 082 557 1550

• Contact Gerrie Marnewick for all your gas needs on 071 602 9349.

MAINTENANCE / HOME SERVICES

• I do koi pond maintenance, treating and medicating koi. Swimming pool maintenance, general household maintenance, electric gate motor repairs, irrigation system repairs and installation. Contact Brendan 082 691 1269

• Affordable & reliable Brooklyn Plumbers. 012 942 5907

• Jonathan 0784697506 for all your Aluminum doors and windows and also do repairs.

• Patrick for tiling (078) 858-1160

• Thys Oelofse for all your painting jobs. Had great service from him. 0833212939

• Dawn Appliances

All repairs to all make of appliances. Cold rooms, Aircon, Freezer, Ice machines, Ice cream machines, chip fryers, tumble dryers, dishwashers. Very affordable and experienced Contact 0797896746/0788125592

Reference: Guido 0823238163

PETS

• Vets approved dog and cat food and Bravecto treatment for ticks and fleas delivered to your door in the estate at no extra cost. Please whatsapp Leré (0829749978) for price enquiries and orders. Delivery will take place on Fridays.

• Mobile Pet Grooming and Doggy Hotel, Contact 061 365 8031

• Mooikloof Ultimate Pet Care, we come to you, no traveling, no waiting in cages. Contact 010 021 0222 / www.ultimatepetcare.co.za

• Paws & Claws Pet sitting, Providing Pet Sitting Services in the Estate. I come to your home and take care of your pets’ needs. Contact Mienke on 081 553 9406

• Aupair Pets and kids: I will take care of both, it is a passion and it is a pleasure. Can’t wait to hear from you. Klarissa van der Linden 069 415 9649

• If you would like to advertise in the Echo’s Classifieds section, please email Tobia at tobia@k-studio.co.za by the 15th of every month. The Classifieds section is only available to The Hills residents and there is no charge for residents to advertise here in the Classifieds section. Please include your stand number and contact details for references.

• Classified advertisements are not sales promotion adverts, They are not inserted to attract buyers in the usual sense of the term. They act as a means of bringing together two parties that

SHARING ISCaring

To all keen photographers out there… why not forward your contributions for placement in the e-magazine?

We live in such a beautiful Estate, let’s share with one another what life offers in such abundance. We eagerly await your contributions! Feel free to include a caption, who knows you might just see your photo on the Cover of our next issue.

P.s You don’t have to be a professional to take part submit your photo to tobia@k-studio.co.za

Photo taken by Alison Greenhough

Photo taken by Martin O

Photo taken by Paul Stedall

Photo taken by Hazel Manana

Recipe of the Month

By the_lean_girl

THE KFC DUNKED POPS

You can use the same recipe for wings if you prefer!!!

Ingredients:

• 140g Raw Chicken Breast

20g Cake/Oat Flour

25ml Almond Milk

1 Egg White

1/2 Tsp Paprika

1/2 Tsp Garlic Powder

Salt & Pepper

20g Trigs Chips (Chutney or Sweet Chilli Flavour)

• 45ml Garlic, sesame & ginger soya sauce (Vital)

• 2 Tsp Honey

• Spring onion (garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine oat flour, almond milk, egg white and spices -whisk until combined

2. Add raw cubbed chicken breast and coat in the mix - set aside (or in the fridge for 1 hour if possible)

3. Pop the trigs chips into a bag and smash into crumbs

4. Place the crumbs into a bowl

5. Add the chicken pieces and coat them with the chips

6. Spray your air fryer or oven tray with nonstick spray

7. Add the chicken pieces - before baking for 8 minutes on 200 degrees

8. After 8 minutes, turn over the pieces and bake for a further 4 minutes until the pieces are crisp - remove from the air fryer

9. In a small pan, add the soya sauce and honey and heat gently

10. Add the chicken pieces and coat them in the sauce - serve while hot!

Lost with your WORKOUT ROUTINE?

Eating healthy, but not seeing RESULTS?

NuHuman Transformation clinic provides workout guidance, nutritional guidance, motivation, and support throughout your whole journey. NuHuman prioritises lifestyle changes to equip all individuals to lead a healthy lifestyle with life and social factors.

“Thank you to the NuHuman Olympus team who helped me get focused on my health, holistically. Not many places offer such a warm welcome with patience and support, not only with the exercise, but the eating and sustainable lifestyle changes that the whole team at NuHuman Olympus did for me. Thank you to the whole team for walking this path with me so far, I look forward to walking it with you all for a long time to come, with new challenges and goals along the way!” - Brendan.

stopped snoring within a week! Although the beginning was really tough, I stuck with it. The programme really makes it simple to follow. All you have to do is exactly what the programme says, and you start seeing results. I thought the exercises are going to get boring and monotonous and that I would lose interest. That is not the case.” - Drickus.

If you are new to training, NuHuman provides assistance during all training sessions to take you from beginner to experienced, with each day bringing something new and challenging.

“Starting my journey with NuHuman just over 6 weeks ago, I could not imagine rapid change about to take place. Losing just over 10kg's in this time is not all. I have more energy than ever, sleep better and to my wife's surprise,

What is included in NuHuman’s membership packages:

• 5 Days a week training in group classes with hands on trainers assisting you throughout each session.

• Weekly weigh-ins to ensure that you are held accountable.

• Goal based nutritional plans to keep your body healthy.

• Red and yellow low level laser light therapy to assist with muscle recovery, blood flow as well as a wide range of skin benefits including the increase of collagen production.

• Ozone treatment acts as a germicide and disinfectant before entering the gym. Ensuring a clean and safe environment.

Oh, I can’t keep it in!

Please refrain from urinating in the game reserve and along the green belt between the houses if you exercise (jog & walk) on the Estate.

Having to confront someone for their bad or uncalled for behavior is not pleasant.

Your assistance will be appreciated.

We should all use the restroom before stepping outside. As soon as you decide it’s time to leave, make sure you use the bathroom before you leave.

Self Discipline: This is a mindset issue. Once you can discipline yourself from every other thing, then you could discipline yourself from Urinating by the roadside.

Parents should learn to teach their kids that Urinating in public is wrong. It is important for them to grow up with such training, which they will of course pass on to their own children.

Let help save our plants in our environment.

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