Life & Style Vol 16 Issue 12

BALLITO ISSUE 12

05

19 June - 2 July 2019

VOL 16

PROFILE:CARPENTRY MAKES A COMEBACK

07

FITNESS: START TRAIL-RUNNING

09

FASHION FIND: CATWALK QUEEN

10

RECIPE: DURBAN CURRY REVISITED

FREE COPY

WHETHER YOU ARE LOOKING TO SELL, BUY OR RENT PROPERTY ON THE NORTH COAST, PARTNER WITH LOCALS. 032 880 0099 Suite 7, First Floor, New Salt Rock Shopping Centre / northcoastrealestate.co.za /

IN PRINT, ON AIR & ONLINE

lifeandstyle.co.za

BALLITO TO UMHLANGA

Mind the gap

I

RECENTLY sat down with Erica Platter for a cappuccino at Simbithi Country Club, for a natter about her and Clinton Friedman’s new book, Durban Curry: Up2Date (R395, Paw Paw publishers). Many South Africans will recognise the famous Platter name, and will know her from the renowned wine guide her and husband John compiled and edited each year, the Platter’s South African Wine Guide.

After reading Hugh Johnson’s ground-breaking Pocket Wine Book, the two print journalists saw an opportunity in the insular and complex wine industry to unpack wines for ordinary people to understand and enjoy. Since the first edition in 1980, 1.5 million copies have been printed.

What to do 22 June: Fit Night Out

It’s becoming one of the biggest fitness party events of the year; Women’s Health magazine’s Durban installment will include goodie bags and sponsored prizes from adidas, Fry’s, Montagu and more, with six workouts from SA’s top trainers.

From 4pm, at Moses Mabhida Stadium, People’s Park East. Tickets at quicket.co.za

28 June: Wine Not

This popular Joburg event is heading to Salt Rock for the first time. Get to the Litchi Orchard from 4pm and tickets are available at the door starting from R150 per person.

No under 21’s, and there will be a full bar available should wine not be your thing.

Follow them on Insta @WineNotEvents

28-30 June: Big Bold Bollywood

Head to Sibaya for the hilarious Bollywoodinspired dance drama, Meri Shaadi Ki Wedding Biryani. Featuring dazzling dance displays, breathtaking costumes, seasoned actors and spectacular sound and lighting, it’s a winter feel-good show for all ages.

The show runs at the Sibaya iZulu Theatre.

Tickets start at R70. Book at Computicket, Shoprite/Checkers or the Sibaya Box Office.

For more information visit www.suninternational.com or Facebook @sibayacasino

1-7 July: Catch a break

Years later, Erica accompanied John on a diplomatic trip with the South African government to China to celebrate the longstanding relationship between the two countries. Part of the celebration was a showcase of South African food, and to Erica’s dismay, the cuisine of KwaZulu-Natal was nowhere to be seen.

She was mad, so she resolved to do something about that. She wrote a book called East Coast Tables, with imagery by Clinton Friedman, and it was an instant hit. What followed was a host of books, all delving into the food of the East Coast. Catch our interview with Erica, plus a recipe extract from the new book, on page 10.

What struck me most about chatting to Erica, is how her life seems to have been

punctuated by seeing opportunity and, I suppose, isn’t that part of how one can find success?

South Africans are notorious for seeing an opportunity. We are resourceful people. We’ve had to be – and it’s our resilience that fills me with optimism. As a product of a family who emmigrated, and came back, trust me, it’s an asset to any society.

Speaking of taking a gap, this edition sees the start of a brand new series on trail running – if you’ve always wanted to start but don’t know how, or where, Dr Rosie Carey (who’s just completed her fourth 100-mile trail run, running through the night) is exactly the person you should listen too! She’ll be giving us her sage advice in the second edition of Life & Style each month.

On page five we chat to Robbie and Carmen Howie, who also saw a gap in the market for bespoke, quality wood furniture, and their new expanded premises at the Litchi Orchard is worth a visit. Forgive me for saying so, but they certainly saw the wood for the trees!

Another entrepreneurial success story is Gerald Wells, who after four decades of building his hair empire, is returning to his (ahem) roots, and will soon begin styling hair again from his Ballito store. He chats to us on page nine.

We’ll also be running an incredible competition to win Disney on Ice tickets for the whole family, so follow our Facebook page @LifeandStyleBallito for details on how to enter.

Until next time,

10 points

•Decide not to worry about it.

•Nothing worthwhile is achieved •Consider yourself fortunate.

•Everything is possible!

•Detachment is sometimes the

3-7 July: Disney Delights

experience.

Have an event you want to shout about?

Email us at melanie@lifeandstyle.org.za

@lifeandstyleballito

Distribution Supervisor Skhumbuzo Manyoni Advertising Delia Laas

Melanie Parnell

071 046 1433 ads@lifeandstyle.org.za

082 556 2416 media@lifeandstyle.org.za

Candice Flood

Office

066 207 9709 sales@lifeandstyle.org.za 032 946 1145 / 3112 / 3674

Published by North Coast Publishing PTY Ltd Cover

Spice restaurant’s ‘Curried Brinjal & Eggs’, shot by Clinton Friedman, for Durban Curry: Up2Date (Paw Paw publishing)

Station Manager Mike Charles Studio Manager Mvelo Zulu

mike@lifeandstyle.fm 032 586 0555 studio@lifeandstyle.fm

While every reasonable effort is taken to ensure the accuracy and soundness of the contents of this publication, neither the authors nor the publisher will bear any responsibility for the consequences of any actions based on information contained herein. All material in this issue is copyright protected and may not be reproduced without permission.

Life & Style subscribes to the South African Press Code that prescribes news that is truthful, accurate, fair and balanced. If we don’t live up to the Code please contact the Press Ombudsman at 011 484 3612/8, fax: 011 4843619, www.presscouncil.org.za.

This month I love...

overnight.

The annual Ballito Pro, now sponsored by O’Neill, takes place once again on Willard Beach, where the world’s best surfers will compete for the 2019 title. This year the women will be competing for equal prize money for the first time; sounds like reason enough to support! Entry is free, as are all the subsidiary events such as the daily market, kids events and concerts.

Visit theballitopro.com for the line-up of events.

Disney On Ice is back with an enchanting mix of Disney royalty, from Frozen and The Little Mermaid to Beauty and the Beast and Tangled. The event takes place once again at Durban’s ICC Arena. Tickets are available from Computicket.

Me l a n i e

Editor In Chief Dave Charles 082 551 4768 editor@lifeandstyle.org.za Editor Melanie Reeder-Powell 082 974 5035 melanie@lifeandstyle.org.za Layout & Design Sue Charles art@lifeandstyle.org.za

greatest act of love.

•Realise there is nothing lacking, and the whole world belongs to you.

•Learn something from every

•There is always time to do what is important.

•Only here and now can you truly love – the past is a memory, the future a fantasy.

•Love yourself.

Beira Alta PORTUGUESE FARE

INFUSED WITH A SPICY AFRICAN INFLUENCE

Steak & Seafood | Imported Wines Delicious Desserts & More

OPEN MONDAY - SUNDAY 12 NOON TILL LATE

We’re utterly enchanted by the Noush range of dolls, inspired by the popular plastic African Clonette doll. Durban-based Manoushka Kraal came up with the concept following the birth of her second child, and cottoned on to the idea of creating decorative symbols of protection for little ones.

Utilising wood-carved originals that are then moulded into resin, each doll is lovingly created, and has it’s own quirky identity, from mermaids with bunny ears (Lulu Bowie) to the mermaid crowned with an Afro (Zodwa).

Visit Noush on Facebook for more information, and check out the range they’ve just been commissioned for by exclusive bush lodges, Singita.

LUNCH MENU SPECIALS Served with a choice of a Side Order & Complimentary glass of Wine or Juice LUNCH SPECIALS MON - SAT 12PM - 5PM

R95.00

FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE Ballito Lifestyle Centre

T&C’s Apply

032 946 2388

PROPERTY 3

lifeandstyle.co.za

BUYING INVESTMENT PROPERTIES: RISK & REWARD

Harcourts Dolphin Coast 032 946 2331 dolphincoast@harcourts.co.za

Whether you’re looking to purchase an investment home, or perhaps upgrading to a larger home without selling your current property, there are risks and rewards involved.

Harcourts Dolphin Coast’s Dennis Scott can assist you on your way to earning passive income.

Firstly, let’s look

at the risks and rewards of property investment:

LANDLORDS OBLIGATIONS

REWARD “Someone else pays your bond on your leased property.” Great! So all I do is rent out my new property and the tenant will pay for everything? Not quite.

RISK As a landlord, you will have an obligation to ensure that the property is maintained. This maintenance can take the shape of simple repairs, or could be as expensive as replacing a burst geyser or fixing damp caused by a leaky roof.

While the number of tenants in South Africa is unusually high, it is littered with people who abuse both their landlords and the physical property.

This is often caused by an innate lack of respect. Getting rid of a bad tenant can be extremely difficult, especially if you do not have the correct paperwork in place. To reduce this risk, make sure you seek legal counsel when drawing up the lease agreement. Also ensure to take a deposit on the rental that can be used to pay for damages that the tenant may cause.

Tenants often have difficult months and will sometimes miss a payment or two. There are two ways you can mitigate this risk and we suggest you do both. Put a clause in the lease agreement that handles a missed payment and take two month’s deposit up front.

DEFINE PROFIT

REWARD “After a few years, I can sell the property and all the profit will be mine.” This is mostly true (barring a prenuptial agreement or some other such document), once Capital Gain’s Tax has been paid.

RISK In South Africa, SARS takes their cut in the form of Capital Gains Tax. There are a number of ways to ensure that, while still complying fully with the law, you pay only the minimal amount of tax. Talk to your real estate agent about purchase options.

LEGACY

REWARD “A property investment will survive you.”

In essence, you can bequeath the property to the next generation, leaving it as part of your legacy to them.

RISK Your property may not go to those you want it to. The risk here can be reduced by talking to your attorney. Ensure that your will is set out with clear instructions that leave no room for misinterpretation for the disposal of your additional investment properties.

PERSONAL GAIN

REWARD “The stability created by owning an investment property often provides a sense of comfort to owners.”

Let’s be honest here; owning a house is, in itself, a great accomplishment.

Owning two or three houses is even more so. There are very few risks associated with ego!

BUYING CONSIDERATIONS

Buying a home is a major investment, but for many, it’s an even more expensive process than it needs to be.

When you’re buying a new home, bear in mind that you will likely sell

this property in the future. If you look at it objectively, what potential faults or problems might other buyers find when you put it back on the market?

No home is perfect, but careful evaluation at the time of purchase can give you an idea of what to expect when selling. Is the home you have purchased a marketable product? If so, it will always reach its potential and give you the return you are looking for. Potential resale problems could be: 1. SERVITUDES AND RESTRICTIONS Check the title deed of the property before signing an offer to purchase. Ask for a full explanation of any unusual disclosures. Consider how they will affect you and whether you would be happy to live with them, and then consider the opinions of other buyers.

Will this impact on the sale of your house in the future?

2. LIKELY OBJECTIONS Buyers are likely to be put off by hightension wires crossing near the stand, steep driveways and noisy, busy streets (especially in front of the house).

3. NEIGHBOURHOOD CONCERNS Shabby neighbourhoods should be avoided unless there are active signs of revival, like renovations and demolitions.

Choose suburbs with evidence of proud ownership either in an established area or one where the new houses that are being built have acceptable appeal.

Buyers want to feel safe and secure so check the stats on problems such as crime, safety of children, etc.

4. MARKET MATTERS Certain markets will limit the buyers you attract, e.g. holiday homes, student accommodation and retirement villages.

Your choice of a home may well suit your needs, but you will have to find a buyer who has the same needs when you sell.

5. TYPICAL FACILITIES AND SERVICES Take stock of what is generally offered in the area. For instance, golf estates, retirement villages and sectional title units each have their own specific features. If the home you choose lacks what the majority of homes have, buyers will tend to overlook yours’.

6. INSPECTION ISSUES Assess the water drainage carefully. Poor drainage can be a serious and costly exercise. Talk to the neighbors and the local municipal offices. Check the plans and drainage systems around the house.

Ask if there is a problem - don’t assume there isn’t one.

When you are inspecting a house, ask about their insurance. If there has been a problem, ask your own insurance company for a full assessment. If they are prepared to cover the house, then they would be happy with the risk.

7. IMPROVEMENT OBSTACLES Over-capitalizing on a property may not necessarily add value to your house.

Having a mansion as an exception in the neighborhood does not mean you will get a higher price.

Make sure you are happy with the layout of the home and that it meets your needs and would appeal to most buyers. Take floor plan issues like excessive level changes, poor access to rooms and low ceilings into account.

Find Harcourts Dolphin Coast at 11 Jack Powell Road, Ballito, call 032 946 2331, or visit harcourtsdolphincoast.co.za

Harcourts Dolphin Coast 032 946 2331 dolphincoast@harcourts.co.za

Property is our busines Property is our business. People our passion.

EXCLUSIVE MANDATE EXCLUSIVE MANDATE

EXCLUSIVE MANDATE EXCLUSIVE MANDATE

Westbrook SIMBITHI SALT ROCK SHAKAS ROCK

900000 000 R2,500,000 RR4 2 000

beds baths carport 3 bed | 2 bath24|beds 1 garage | 1 store room ||23baths ||12garage

Contemporary Luxury Apartment in Eco Golf Estate Mediterranean Inspired Beach Front Apartment.

Luxury Beachfront Bliss in Westbrook.

Make this a lifestyle choice! situated in the ever popular Simbithi newlyposition renovated fully furnished.

AThis unique in apartment this soughtcomes afterspacious complex.

Large estate.

This contemporary apartment boasts entertainment The furniture is the exception to the norm.

Thewith immaculate areas all of which opens upmanicured with stack away doors onto a large private covered patio, gardens stunning complex has recently been painted and is situated on of covered entertainment patioSwimming, with a built-infishing, braai andsurfing jacuzzi.one Both sea views.

Pet friendly, and the area's most pristine beaches. the lounge and master bedroom enjoys stunning views of the Indian boating beachfront facilities. ocean.KDC28677 The ultra modern kitchen is equipped with quality appliances Web Web KDC26786 and a breakfast counter.

Minki Matthews Tammy Messiter-Tooze Minki Matthews Web KDC 32464 083 373541 9722 C 072 8822 CC083 373 9722 minki.matthews@harcourts.co.za E tammy.mt@harcourts.co.za EEminki.matthews@harcourts.co.za

BALLITO Simbithi CHAKAS ROCK

EXCLUSIVE MANDATE DUALMANDATE MANDATE EXCLUSIVE

R 1 950 000 R3,250,000 R 1 295 000

2 beds bays | 2 baths | 2 garages 3 bed | 2.5 bath | 2 parking | 1 store room 1 bed | 1 bath | 1 carport

Beachfront Apartment Tenant withApartment aPositioned lease until 30 Apartment November 2019.

This light,Coastal bright and Sea View for that Luxury in Sabuti. airy is located on the beach front.

It offers court-yard Buyduplex into the lifestyle.

Entertain on the extraa private large patio Experience.

to entertain, allowing out-door Braai facilities. Direct access from the boasting athe Jacuzzi andup built ingo. braai.

Stunning views ofChakas the Neat asinto a pin, ideal lock and meters garage apartment with loads ofJust storage spacefrom and the a small loft Rock beach andThree tidal .This pool. door opens to aasbalcony Indian ocean. communal pools andtoause management with built-in cupboards is Sliding the ideal property a holidayand lovely sea views.

Secure complex offering communal facilities team that takes care of the complex. home or as a permanent residence. It is sold furnished - just move in Web KDC25968 and enjoy. such as laundry, swimming pool, braai and picnic area.

Bev Hogg Ian Schmulian Minki Matthews 083 255 2448 CC082 441 1504 C 083 373 9722 minki.matthews@harcourts.co.za E bev.hogg@harcourts.co.za E Eian.schmulian@harcourts.co.za

Web KDC KDC 32268 28775 Web

harcourtsdolphincoast.co.za

BALLITO Westbrook Ballito SHEFFIELD

R 12 060 500 000 000 R2,500,000 R2,750,000 R

3 beds | 22 3bed bath |||122bath carport 1parkings garage 22| garages 3 bed | 2 bath | 1 garage | 1||store room beds baths

Beachfront Ballito . Home in Seaward Estate.

Sheffield Beach Apartment Family Pet-Friendly Luxury Beachfront Westbrook.

Ground floor beachfront unit,Bliss walkingin distance from Ballito's Willards

Opportunity knocks 2sought bedroom, 2complex. bathroom modern Tuscan-styled home.

Safe access.

Automated double A unique infor thisa gardens after Large Main Beach.position Set in manicured with access to Ballito's main open plan apartment, in adinning secure estate. garage, covered entrance, separate scullery.

Partly promenade.

This open planlocated lounge and room apartment will private covered patio, manicured gardens with stunning Tenant in place until 2018.

Good rental income-very allow you toveranda. relax enjoy the tropical climate thatin Ballito enclosed Two small dogswarm are welcome the sea views.

Petand friendly, Swimming, fishing, surfing andhas to offer.

With access to braai facilities and a view of the ocean, do not reasonable monthly levy and rates payable. friendly well managed secure estate. boatingand beachfront facilities. miss out on this opportunity to invest. King Shaka International Airport Web KDC28497 Web KDC26364 Webtwenty KDC26786 only minutes away.

Tammy Messiter-Tooze Ida du Plooy Ian Schmulian Tammy Messiter-Tooze Web KDC 32497 CCC072 541 8822 082 540 2534 072 541 8822 C 082 441 1504 EEida.duplooy@harcourts.co.za Etammy.mt@harcourts.co.za tammy.mt@harcourts.co.za E ian.schmulian@harcourts.co.za

SALT ROCK Palm Lakes Simbithi ZIMBALI

OPEN MANDATE DUALMANDATE MANDATE EXCLUSIVE

R 7 995 000 R3,150,000 RR3,250,000 16 800 000

16 800 000 4 beds |R 4.5baths | 2 garage

3 bed | 2.5 bath 2| parking | 1 |store room 4 beds | |4.5baths lounges |22garages garages 3 bed 3 bath| |21bays study

Contemporary Luxury Home In Durnkirk Estate From The Developer Palm Lakes Estate Height and perspective hasLuxury been to Frontage ensure maximum light Luxury Apartment ininutilized Sabuti.

Position Position, Golf Home No Transfer Duty . family and space thislifestyle. ultra-modern home. home Onethe of showcases the many outstanding Architecturally designed modern Buy intointhe Entertain on extra large patio

features of this home is thehome. magnificent openentertainment plan kitchen. The area Stylish Modern sophistication &family high-profile entertaining.

Features include boasting a Jacuzzi and builtareas inPrivate braai.

Stunning of thea expansive multiple entertainment all open up withviews stack away with gas braai , garden, inverter that will lights terraced water feature , imported Travertine tiles ,your imported Indian ocean.

Three communal pools andkeep a management glass doors therefore allowing for an easy flow onto the stunning patio, and fridge going for 8of hours and solar geyser. All sorts of fixtures and fittings in the andthroughout bathrooms mood team that takes thekitchen complex. pool and garden.

Thecare extensive use of glass, theand house entertainment Estate allows a feeling in of the natural surrounds being part of the interior LED for lighting.

Web KDC25968 of the home.

Web KDC26584 Minki Matthews Minki Leon Dedekind Web KDC 28696

Minki Matthews

C 083 083 373 9722 078 697 7127 C 373 9722 C C083 373 9722 E leon.dedekind@harcourts.co.za E minki.matthews@harcourts.co.za E minki.matthews@harcourts.co.za

Web KDC 32567

E xx pp ee rr tt ss ii nn hh oo m m ee ff ii nn aa nn cc ee .. harcourtsdolphincoast.co.za E

net endor Smart & Prepaid Utility Metering Solutions

netVendor is a local and internationally established company and a leader in smart and prepaid utility metering.

Prepaid and Smart Utility Metering & monitoring for residential properties Commercial properties such as shopping centres and Industrial properties such as plants and factories

www.netvendor.co.za | 086 111 6199

4 DECOR & DESIGN

lifeandstyle.org.za

MAN CAVE

MAKING A

Catch A live o llen n the Afte Drive rnoon o Wedn n 88FM esday s at 4p m

(FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY)

The words ‘man cave’ conjure up images of sexist ‘man only’ rooms that are filled with sports memorabilia, a bar and giant flat screen. This needn’t be the case at all. In fact, the concept has evolved into a legitimate room in the house for everyone to enjoy. DIY expert Allen Petrie offers his top tips for creating the space.

J

UNE not only brings about Father’s Day but a host of reasons to engage in what used to be considered “manly” activities. If you’re lucky enough to have received some DIY tools for Father’s Day, here’s what you can do with them. If you belong to the fairer sex, then these ideas are just as relevant to you. In fact, what better way to spend a weekend than making something together?

Man caves take many forms and range from media rooms for TV and audio visual toys to fully fledged workshops and “maker” rooms.

They have, in essence, been redefined as a multipurpose room with bespoke applications for each individual.

Here are some tips and ideas for making your very own “man cave” for the whole family to enjoy.

IDENTIFY THE RIGHT SPACE Selecting the room or space is critical. What you’re looking for is a space that is big enough for the many roles it will fulfil. Some things to look for: Single level space – in case you need to move equipment or furniture around.

Access to the outside of your home for easy moving of items (a double door is a good idea) Ventilation for airflow and also for possible dust extraction in the case of power tools Can it be sound-proofed? Loud TV’s and/ or power tools may upset family members and neighbours Storage space is important – plan this upfront.

Power points – there needs to be adequate power supply.

Durable floor – concrete/screed/laminate wooden floors will be easier to clean It should have the ability to seal off room from main living area in your home.

BURNEDALE FARM

create

shop

nourish

play

where is well wellspent! spent Wheretime time is 1 Old Main Road, Burnedale Place, Umhlali S 29˚ 28.176 E031˚ 13.550 (Opposite Karibu Farm) Kids Creative Entertainment Tel: 032 947 0133 (8.30am - 4.40pm) www.burnedale.co.za www.facebook/burnedale.com Coffee in the Country ǀ Animal Farm

WHAT NEXT? Plan your budget carefully and make sure the space is ready for fittings and fixtures.

It’s important to address the issues listed above first.

It’s too costly to try and retrofit these items afterwards.

The trick now is to plan your space and identify the steps required to complete your dream room. Break it down into several smaller projects and allocate time and budget to each.

Involve everyone in the family. More heads are always better. Some of the best ideas come from those who you’d least expect to have them.

SIGN UP FOR A WOODWORKING / DIY COURSE The most rewarding thing about ‘man caves’ is the process of doing it yourself. If you feel overwhelmed by any of it, why not sign up for a course that enables you to learn new skills? Basic carpentry and woodworking courses are a great

way to learn to use new tools and improve your use of your existing tools.

FIND NEW/OLD TOOLS TOGETHER Make an adventure out of finding tools and other ‘man cave’ items at flea markets. It’s a great family activity and you never know what you’ll find.

HAVE FUN WITH IT Remember that it’s supposed to be a fun and relaxing project; an escape from reality. Don’t forget to have fun with it!

Various carpentry courses from four to eight weeks are available at Greenhaus in Salt Rock, as well as one-on-one sessions, (which make great gifts). Call 032 525 4439 or visit green-haus.co.za

A dose of

WINE, WIT & WISDOM Life & Style editor-in-chief and 88FM Afternoon Drive host, Dave Charles, has a moment of truth in the aisle of a bottle store.

S

o there I was in the heart of the liquor store at Zimbali Wedge watching a group of newly affluent South African men agonising over the choice of wine for a post weekend bash. The Platter’s Wine Guide didn’t feature in the animated debate.

Which was it to be the Graca Rose or the White?

They eventually settled on both, and loaded the trolley with as many bottles as it would carry.

I smiled at them indulgently as I demonstrated my superior taste and refinement by reaching for a single bottle of Oak Valley Fountain of Youth Sauvignon Blanc.

The sticker on the bottle clearly indicated that this was a Platter recommendation. Oh Yes, when you have got it, flaunt it, hey.

Just listen to how they describe it and why it costs nearly R100 a bottle.

“A wine grown high up on the foothills of the Groenlandberg in Elgin. Oak Valley ‘Fountain of Youth’ Sauvignon Blanc expresses fruit aromas of passion fruit, white peach and litchi with a slight herbaceous undertone. Flavours of passion fruit persist on the palate,

Protea Pottery hand painted pottery

Training North Coast children in the Cecchetti Method for 22 years!

Ballet Studio @ Shop No. 19, Burnedale, Umhlali Cell: 083 321 9095 | Email: davisgc@mweb.co.za

Training North Coast children in the Cecchetti Method for 22 years!

Ballet Studio @ Shop No. 19, Burnedale, Umhlali Cell: 083 321 9095 | Email: davisgc@mweb.co.za

particularly granadilla, lemons, white pear, gooseberry and a lovely saline finish that reminds one of fresh oyster shells or sea salt.”

See, that’s posh. Who wouldn’t pay handsomely for a slight herbaceous undertone or two? And that saline fresh oyster shell finish – that’s so much posher than the Graca.

I mean, here’s what they say about the White: Winemaker Deon Boshoff describes it as livelycoloured with flashes of green, a touch of asparagus on the nose and crisp, lemony, off dry flavours. Its petillance gives it a palate-tingling lift.

It ensures its enjoyment with a range of foods from pizzas and pastas to fish, shellfish, poultry and creambased dishes and cheeses And the Rose: Winemaker Deon Boshoff describes it as livelycoloured with flashes of salmon pink, a touch of raspberry on the nose and nectarine flavours. Its petillance gives it a palate-tingling lift.

It ensures its enjoyment with a range of foods from pizzas and pastas to fish, shellfish, poultry and creambased dishes and cheeses.

We met again at the till – them with their Graca … and a bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue and Hennessy Cognac and me with my bottle of Fountain of Youth and a Ballantines Whisky.

One of them shook my hand and wished me a happy Father’s Day. Then I saw myself through their eyes. It made me rather sad.

Catch Dave Charles on the Afternoon Drive powered by Bidvest McCarthy Toyota Ballito on 88FM every weekday from 3pm.

nosh co deli&foodstore a n d

C

M

Y

CM

1 Old Main Road ǀ Burnedale Place ǀ Umhlali S29°28.176 E031°13.550 (Opposite Karibu Farm) 032 947 0133 (8.30am - 4.30pm) www.burndale.co.za ǀ www.facebook/burndale.com

MY

CY

CMY

K

GARDENING 5

lifeandstyle.co.za

GROW Your Own

Green-fingered guru Tracey Miller-Smith of Eco Balance Landscaping shows us how to create a culinary garden, with her 5 top tips on growing container herbs.

H

ERBS are great plants to grow in containers, offering several benefits. They tend to thrive when well looked-after, and are ideal for a kitchen, patio or small outdoor garden, and the convenience is obvious. It’s great to be able to pull a few delightfully fragrant leaves off a stem and add them to your pot while creating a flavourful dish!

They are a great cost saver too in our ever-tightening economy, and what’s more, a home-grown herb not only saves money but saves the word from one more piece of plastic wrapping!

Here are my top five tips on how to best grow herbs in containers.

1. CLEVER CONTAINERS Not all herbs grow equally in size.

Some are really large at full growth and so you need to be cautious about the size of your container. Choose the container according to the maturity size of the herb you are planting. As a general rule, always buy a container larger than the one you think you need!

There are also a wide variety of containers available for you to choose from. Anything from an old paint tin can to a wheelbarrow are used for potting plants. Pick a container that will blend in well with its environment.

If you’re potting for your kitchen, perhaps a minimalist look of a few terracotta pots on the windowsill would fit in best. If you’re potting for your patio, perhaps you’d like to use something more interesting like a concrete planter or a large window box

where you can plant a variety together.

2. SOIL AND DRAINAGE Whatever container you decide to use, make sure it has good drainage at the bottom. Add layers of gravel or pebbles to the bottom of the container before adding soil to assist with drainage.

Choose a good quality potting soil mix.

It is always wise to be as extravagant as your budget will allow when buying potting soil; best is better! We love using Living Earth’s potting soil, and they offer a great compost for soil conditioning before mixing into your pots. Allow at least three centimeters space from the top of the container for growth and watering.

It’s important to keep your container herb garden watered as plants in containers will dry out a lot quicker. Most herbs like to be kept moist 3. INDOOR WINTER HERBS If you have a herb garden outside, it’s a great idea to dig these plants up and

KNOCK ON WOOD

plant them for indoor growth during the 5. HARVESTING YOUR HERBS colder winter months. You can pop them Herbs should be harvested frequently to into a sunny windowsill spot and watch produce more foliage – don’t be afraid to them thrive, keeping you stocked with pick and use your herbs as regularly as they delicious soup and stew ingredients all will allow. You will be rewarded with a winter long. better harvest for longer. If you don’t wish to use them straight away, then you can 4. MAKE PERFECT PLANT CHOICES Most herbs grow very easily in any size always freeze them. Our advice is to pick or type of containers as their root systems them regularly and use them regularly, are not massive. Some thrive better than enjoying the flavours and the fragrances as often as you can. others though. Our choice of the best We’re always on the lookout for great herbs for container gardening are; basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, parsley, chives, ideas when it comes to container planting.

Feel free to share your novel herb container mint and lemon grass.

If you are planting a variety of herbs planters with us on any of our social media platforms or email them to us for sharing! into the same container, be sure to first check their watering, soil and sunshine requirements as these may differ.

For landscaping and garden advice and Most herbs for cooking are perennials quotations, visit ecobalance.co.za, call and if protected well in winter will keep 032 815 1172, or follow going for many years.

Eco Balance Landscapes on Instagram @ecobalance_01

BEAUTIFUL HASSLE FREE GARDENS for Offices, Factories, Estates, Body Corporates & Private Homes 032 815 1172 I 072 723 2792

www.ecobalance.co.za

R 1,500,000

R1,695,000

R1,895,000

1028M2 SEA VIEWS

1201M2 GREENBELT VIEWS

1016M2 SEA VIEWS

PLANS (3 BED HOME)

(NO TRANSFER DUTY)

It’s official; carpentry is making a come-back. Enter Howie & Co. based in Salt Rock; a husband and wife team who are making beautiful wooden furniture with a curated retail décor shopfront at the Litchi Orchard.

R

OBBIE HOWIE first started escaping into the garage to work with wood when his father, Chris, was sadly diagnosed with cancer. At first, it was a refuge where he took comfort and was able to channel his energy into his father’s table saw and a selection of sanders. Tragically, Robbie’s father passed away four years ago, but his love for working with wood has continued, almost as an ode to his dad’s legacy, since he too was involved in the furniture retail business for many years as the owner of Stop Discount Furnishers.

“It was therapeutic at first,” explains Robbie, who is a born-and-bred local.

“We started by making melamine cupboards and selling our wares into the old Transkei part of the Eastern Cape.”

Robbie’s father owned many stores in and around the same region, where Robbie lived for eight years.

His wife Carmen, who hails from the South Coast, trained as a beauty therapist before her and Robbie decided

to open their own business, and they make a good team. Robbie makes the custom wooden furniture, using mostly oak, while Carmen oversees the retail store, which recently doubled in size to 100 square metres of gorgeous mirrors, lamps, unique scatters and ornaments, handmade serving boards, tables, chairs, carpets and plant holders.

“We do a lot of custom work,” adds Carmen, who definitely does her homework when it comes to forecasting trends and hunting down specific décor items.

Their suppliers are deemed sustainable and responsible sources, and although they specialise in oak, Howie & Co. will work with pretty much any wood. They credit a large part of their craftmanship to their cabinetmaker, Cyril Naidoo, who has 25 years of experience creating quality products.

Find Howie & Co. at the Litchi Orchard in Salt Rock. Follow them on Instagram @HowieandCo or call 079 880 2883

STANDS FOR SALE LOXELY ESTATE / Boutique estate living A mere five-minute walk from the untouched and picturesque setting of Sheffield Beach, Loxley Estate offers spectacular views of KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast and indigenous wetland conservation areas. Consisting of only 27 freehold subdivisions All homes and elements of the estate have been designed with privacy and spacious living in mind.

ROBYN JACKSON 072 453 8267 / rjackson@ncre.co.za northcoastrealestate.co.za / / Suite 7, First Floor, New Salt Rock Shopping Centre

PARTNER WITH LOCALS

6 TUITION

lifeandstyle.org.za

FORGING GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

As far back as 2010, Ashton College Ballito began establishing a relationship with a UK-based school, to build what has now become an annual and highly anticipated exchange programme.

Girls hockey, excluding the Matrics.

Matric hockey stars.

Boys hockey, excluding the Matrics.

“

People will forget what you said, people will forget what you do, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” said Maya Angelou.

It is that feeling that ultimately determines our path and direction, forming a sequential influence in the everyday decisions we make.

In a nutshell - life is about ‘relationships’ and it is how we form these relationships that will play a critical role in determining the best outcome.

In 2010; in Ashton College Ballito’s first year, we were approached by a UK school to build a relationship that would be reciprocal, whereby one year they would visit and then the following year we would tour the town/ country.

After exchanging a few details, the relationship with Lewes Old Grammar School was born. In 2011, Rob Blewitt and his school arrived mid-year; the hottest period of the year, and so the tradition started. We hosted, entertained and built up a unique relationship, which is commonly now referred to as the ‘LOGS’ Tour.

The students gain much more than just

OUT

&

E

the exploration of a new country/town; by the time the tours come to an end, the students have formed new bonds of friendship and future relationships.

This creates tremendous excitement and great anticipation of another LOGS Tour the following year. What made our first LOGS trip to the UK so exciting was to share in the celebrations of Lewes Old Grammar School’s 500th birthday. What a privilege and an honour it was to be a part of such a distinguished and auspicious occasion, so rich in culture, heritage and history. It was this trip that sealed the relationship between our schools; bar one year, this has been the trend ever since.

On Sunday, 16 June 2019, we boarded Emirates on a flight to Dubai, and then onto Heathrow to renew and build new friendships and relationships. What a privilege!

In aid of relationship building, we are also proud to announce that the Dolphins Striders will join us at the College and will be introducing various programmes to assist in training runners, both for beginners and the more advanced athletes. Our students will be

The Ilembe Chamber of Commerce and Industry Gala Dinner at the Fairmont Hotel was a grand affair, and saw the local business community coming together to network, enjoy a delicious meal and listen to talks that

ASHTON STUDENT SWIMS FOR SA

Goals are what we strive for, and for Sven van der Linde, his goal was to be the best at what he does.

Sven placed 3rd overall in the Open Water Swimming Championships earlier this year, representing KZN. Last week, this young man, a Form 1 student, received the best news ever – Sven has been included in the Swim SA Team, which will be competing in the Austrian Cup 5Km Open Water event which will be held at Lake Bled, Slovenia. Sven swims at the Ashton Swimming Academy and over and above his Open Water Swimming achievements, he also participated at the SA Junior Youth Nationals.

• curtains • blinds • measurement • sewing • installatio

ABOUT

ntrepreneurship was very much in the news in June. Gone are the days of heading into the corporate system after completing school or tertiary education and expecting to stay put until retirement. If we want a robust economy in South Africa, we need more entrepreneurs. They break away from tradition and help to reduce dependence on obsolete systems and this results in greater economic freedom and in most cases, a better quality of life.

ILEMBE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY GALA DINNER

encouraged to participate in these events.

Other relationships that have already materialized and benefited the community are; The Ballito United Football Club; which has established their home base on our new Sports Campus; Waylon Ferrandi will be running a satellite Ferrandi Tennis Academy on our new tennis courts, and Charl Crous, a 2012 Olympian swimmer will be staring his Learn to Swim programme alongside Liz Armixtaze in the third quarter of the year.

In continuation of building relationships, and with our Legacy Hall nearing completion, we will be hosting the PSI Indoor Hockey League along with the ultimate highlight of the Umhlali Impis who have joined us under floodlights on our Rhinoturf.

It is no co-incidence that, as we stated 10 years ago, we wanted to be a communitydriven College that will shine like a beacon on the Dolphin Coast and be driven by a strong Christian-based ethos. In celebration of our 10th anniversary we can say with certainty that we have progressed with great enthusiasm towards achieving that goal.

On behalf of Ashton College, we would like to thank our community for their incredible support and confidence in our College.

Here’s wishing all our schools a welldeserved and blessed holiday. Travel safely.

Glenda Thompson has her finger on the pulse of North Coast social life.

Here’s what was hot and happening throughout the month of June.

centred on entrepreneurship. The keynote speaker was KZN Premier, Sihle Zikalala, who focused predominantly on the subject of youth, employment and entrepreneurship. He also highlighted government’s commitment as part of their national development strategy to step up industrial development in Isethebe.

LIONESSES OF AFRICA

The Lionesses of Africa forum is a community of thousands of women from around the continent passionate about women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship in Africa, and it supports start-up dreams of all women on the continent. Early in June, we attended a Lionesses of Africa networking event in Zimbali that saw women entrepreneurs from around KZN coming together to share their stories.

Visit their website on lionessesofafrica. com if you would like to join this powerful group.

CANNABIS EXPO 2019

KZN TOP BUSINESS

Sibaya was the venue for the KZN Cannabis Expo, and we popped in for a quick tour of the stands and chatted to enthusiastic stand holders, all keen to get the message across that Cannabis is an incredibly versatile plant. From hemp tee shirts, to dogs biscuits, beer, skin and general health remedies, chocolate and coffee to name a few of items on display, we were fascinated by the versatility of this crop that grows prolifically in KZN and is attracting attention from entrepreneurs around the country - all keen to find ways to make their fortunes.

The KZN Top Business Awards Evening took place at the Elangeni Hotel and saw business folk from around the province attending. The keynote speaker was the gorgeous Peggy-Sue Khumalo, the CEO of Standard Bank’s wealth division. Winning the main award of the night, the prestigious Standard Bank KZN Top Business Personality awards given to a person who has demonstrated exemplary business achievement, industry influence and is a true inspiration to others was old Umhlali Primary School pupil, founder and CEO of the Hirsch Group, Allan Hirsch.

UMHLANGA WOMEN ACHIEVER

Email Glenda gjthomo@gmail.com if you’d like her to feature your event.

The guest speaker at the Umhlanga Women Achiever breakfast this month was Navi Naidoo, the assistant director of the Enforcement and Complaints division at the KZN Consumer Protection Services. She enlightened us on the latest issues with regard to the Consumer Protection Act, and stressed the importance of sellers having a thorough knowledge of their products or facing the consequences of having them returned. Also, interestingly there is no five-day cooling period (you can’t buy a product on a whim and take a product back after five days.)

ILEMBE CHAMBER GALA DINNER. GLENDA THOMPSON, NOTHULA NGCONGO AND VERONICA ODWYER

CURTAINS (FREE Sewing), BEDDING & CUSHIONS BALLITO

Shop H3 (Next to Flight Centre) Ballito Junction Mall (Upper Level) Leonora Drive

Tel : 032 586 1480

MOUNT EDGECOMBE

084 511 2228 076 139 1704

Shop A 10 Mount Edgecombe Plaza 102 Hillhead Drive, Old Village

Tel : 031 502 3778

info@classiquecurtain.com

New Name, Same Great Service Formerly PS Home Fashion

LIONESSES. MARLENE POWELL, WENDY WITHERSPOON, LYN ELLE BLUNDEN AND NOELEEN NAIDOO. WOW AT LIONESSES OF AFRICA MEET

JUNE. ALLAN HIRSCH WITH PEGGY SUE KHUMALO, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, STANDARD BANK SOUTH AFRICA WEALTH DIVISION

WELLNESS 7

lifeandstyle.co.za

OFF the BEATEN TRACK

Who better than Rosie Carey to take us through our trail-running paces? She recently ran her fourth 100-miler, and now she’s sharing her expertise with Life & Style readers in this first installment on trail running for novices.

M

ANY people find the thought of just running, never mind trail running, daunting. In fact, in many respects it’s easier to start running on the trails than on the road because 1) it’s perfectly acceptable to walk all the uphills on trail and 2) running on trail is far less damaging to your body than running on the road (more about that in a future article). Here are the very basics that you need to get started as a beginner:

Trails:

.The terrain for trail running can range from almost level gravel road to highly technical mountainous single track.

Obviously, as a beginner you will want to start with the gentler jeep tracks or farm roads and then progress to more technical trails. We are very lucky in Ballito to have Holla Trails on our doorstep. Holla Trails offers perfect trails for the beginner trail runner. There are specific colour-coded runs ranging from four to 15 kilometres (look for the little running man signs).

As your skill and fitness levels improve, you can progress to running the longer cycling routes, many of which offer sections of beautiful single track. Another option is to run the five kilometre Saturday morning Park Run from Sugar Rush. (It’s free, you just have to register online before your first run parkrun.co.za)

Kit:

One of the joys of running is that it requires the bare minimum in terms of kit and is thus easily accessible to most people. Unfortunately you will need a few pieces of more specialized gear for trail running than you do for road running. As you progress from beginner to more seasoned runner, your equipment requirements will escalate, but at the beginning you don’t need to spend a fortune.

Trail shoes: It is important to invest in specialized shoes if you are planning on starting trail running. Trail running shoes have better grip (bigger lugs) than road running shoes, which is important if you want to stay upright in slippery or muddy conditions. Trail running shoes also offer support for your heels and a more robust sole to protect your feet from rocks and stones. See the checklist at the end of the article to help choose the right trail shoe for you.

Headlamp: Remember that trails don’t have street lights and it’s easy to trip on uneven ground if you can’t see your terrain clearly. If you are planning on running in the early morning or evening (especially in winter), invest in a lightweight headlamp.

Hydration pack: It’s important to remember that trail running is generally

slower than road running because of the technicality of the terrain and the elevation. This means that while a 10 kilometre run on the road may take you an hour, on the trail it could take you anywhere between 90 minutes and 180 minutes depending on the nature of the terrain. I recently ran a mountainous trail run in which it took me five hours to run 27 kilometres!

It’s also important to remember that trail running is usually in relatively remote places. Put the two together and you have the potential of being out in a remote place for a long time, which is why the hydration pack is important.

Your hydration pack is a backpack that contains a bladder that you can fill with water/juice and also has pockets to stash food, cellphone and a waterproof jacket (see the next piece of equipment) while fitting your body snugly enough to make running while wearing it comfortable.

There are various makes of hydration pack (more on that in a future article), but the entry-level packs are affordable.

Waterproof jacket: Once again, because you may be out for a long time in a remote place, it’s important to carry a waterproof jacket or base layer with you in case the weather changes. This is less important at Holla Trails than on the mountains, but it’s possible to get such compact, lightweight jackets that it seems silly to run without one.

Safety:

Trail running is, by its nature, remote and potentially dangerous (think falls/ wild animals/getting lost). This is part of the allure of trail running, but minimize the risks by following basic safety rules.

Try not to run alone, make sure you either know the trails or have a GPS/ map with you and take a cellphone along when you run (also good for taking photos of the stunning scenery you’re likely to see). It’s also prudent to keep a space blanket in your backpack in case of emergency that leaves you stranded out on the trails.

A sense of wonder:

Trail running is not predictable. You don’t know what sort of terrain you will be running on and you can’t always predict the weather. It’s easy to get lost and a short little run can turn into a whole-day excursion, but if you make sure that you have a sense of wonder with you (a sense of humour also helps), you will learn to appreciate the beauty in the unexpected, to find the adventure in following the trails less travelled and God in the majesty around you.

Finding the right trail shoe: 1) Fit: There should be a thumb width between the tips of your toes and the top of the shoe. The heel and mid-foot should fit snugly but the toe box should be wide enough to allow some movement of the forefoot and toes.

2) Heel drop: This is the drop of the sole in mm between the heel and the front of the foot. If you are a road runner and know the heel drop of your roadrunning shoes, it’s best to stick to the same heel drop in your trail running shoes to prevent injury.

3) Price: Trail running shoes can be very expensive and expensive doesn’t necessarily equal better. Try out a range of shoes before making your purchase and be realistic about your goals: if you are not planning on running 100 milers, you don’t need to spend a fortune on your shoes.

4) Comfort: Once again, try the shoes on before buying them. Don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson helping you if you can run around the shop in the shoes. Remember that what might feel like a small discomfort over 10m in the shop will feel a whole lot worse after 5km on the trail.

THE BEACH BRIEF KwaDukuza beach manager, intrepid traveller and purveyor of all things outdoors, ‘Seaweed’ Steve Honneysett, explains why there’s no need to hibernate during Ballito’s beautiful winters. consider these highlights as part of your winter adventures:

F

or many of us, winter is a time to hibernate and curl up on the couch with your blankie. Well, the days might be shorter and its certainly a few degrees colder, but the Ballito days are really nice, the sea water is still temperate, and one can get quite a lot accomplished in the early hours of the day.

Being accustomed to waking up at the crack of dawn in the summer months, I find myself with a few spare hours each morning before first light pops over the horizon, which is great as it allows one to prep for whatever activity you plan to tackle that morning.

Sun rises in winter have to be the most awesome, as that bright orange ball climbs its way over the horizon, bringing with it the much sought-after warmth after the morning chill.

There is no better way to start your morning activity with the sun rising on one side and the chill of a Drakensberg wind blowing on the other; to me that’s the place to be during winter.

Having one of the most spectacular parts of the KZN coastlines on our doorstep cannot be ignored and it is truly a scenic, relaxing place to let go of those winter blues.

With many of our coffee shops

•Annual KZN Sardine Migration (June/July) •Whale spotting (July /August/

September) •The Ballito Pro (27 June- 7 July) •Durban Boat and Aviation Show (19-21 July) •Vodacom Durban July (06 July) and restaurants open for business from 6am, even in winter, one can blend ones’ early morning walk around finishing at one of these establishments, or if you are not the energetic type then grab a coffee and watch the brave surfers or fishermen heading out into the cold for their bit of fun. favourite early-bird spots: •Bench Coffee: a container situated in the Salt Rock Granny’s Pool parking lot.

•Salt Rock Coffee Company: opposite Salt Rock Country Club.

•Salt: opposite Chaka’s Tidal Pool, •Concha Café: on Compensation Beach Road.

•Zara’s: at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre.

Seaweed Steve presents the Daily Surf Report on Mike in the Morning and The Afternoon Drive on 88FM.

lifeandstyle.co.za

8 SHOPPING

WRITTEN on the BODY KZN fashion designer Thembeka Yadah has appeared on CNN, showcased at both South Africa and London Fashion Week, and attends trade shows from Paris to Cape Town. She chatted to Life & Style about her company, Yadah Exclusive Designs. particular fabric displaying taps as a motif. Not only are the fabrics deeply significant, the way she drapes fabric across

S

HE’S been a guest on CNN International’s African Voices, and a veteran of London’s African Fashion Week, all for good reason; Thembeka Yadah is making show-stopping garments with global appeal at her Durban studio.

“She creates clothes that are “both timeless and Afro-centric,” she explains.”

and made 10 years ago. I don’t follow trends,” she adds. And her unique designs are a testament to her dedication to originality.

With the support of the KZN Fashion Council (sparked by eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development Unit and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development and Tourism), she and many other designers are finding an international platform for their work.

Globally, conventional retail is

taking a back seat as a result of high rentals, long-term leases, and the increased use of online shopping facilities, and Thembeka and many of her peers are hence shifting towards shared studio spaces to showcase their garments, as well as regular pop-up events in and around Durban. She doesn’t want to lose the tailor-made service she offers to her local and international private clients.

Her mantra is ‘quality, quality, quality.” It’s as simple as that!

the body is equally as considered.

Originally from Estcourt, Thembeka first studied jewellery design at technical college, but after her mother saw a dress she had made, she suggested a shift in career choice to fashion design, and Thembeka listened.

She creates clothes that are “both timeless and Afro-centric,” she explains.

“I still wear garments I designed

The first thing one notices about her designs is her choice of fabric; with carefully considered, symbolic placements on the body, reflecting both urban and rural moments of everyday life in South Africa.

“I’ve been inspired by many things, from our democracy, to the act of going to rivers and collecting water,” she explains, referencing a

Follow her on Instagram and Facebook @thembekayadah or visit thembekayadah.co.za

HIGH AND DRY Dehydrated winter skin got you down? Life & Style beauty to the rescue! We’ve rounded up our favourite moisture-rich, nourishing products from our new favourite spot, Beauty Factory.

Tissue Oil Body Lotion, R185

Tissue Oil Salt & Sugar scrub 250ml, R210

Tissue Oil Body Butter 250ml, R165

We are home to life’s luxuries We are home to lifes luxuries at affordable prices. at affordable prices.

Tissue Oil Concentrate 100ml, R155 The Tissue Oil range from Beauty Factory will repair and protect your skin.

Vitamin E is blended with natural oils of Calendula, Chamomile, Rosemary and Lavender to reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

Find them at Ballito Junction Mall. www.beautyfactory.co.za www.beautyfactory.co.za

PEOPLE 9

lifeandstyle.co.za

RETURNING TO HIS ROOTS It’s not often you hear of a globetrotting, uber successful businessman going back to basics, but self-made haircare and styling guru Gerald Wells is doing just that. After four decades of growing his business, he’s picking up the scissors again.

“

* s u b j e c t t o e ye t e s t , f ra m e a n d l e n s

I want to start cutting hair again!” revealed Gerald Wells excitedly on the ‘heartbeat of Ballito’, 88FM Radio recently, announcing to the region that he would once again be returning to his first love.

“I have an ability to look at people and know exactly what to do with their hair,” explains Gerald. “I want to recreate people,” he adds, and in order to give his clients his full attention, he’ll be in the Ballito salon every Friday, accepting about six clients a day in order to really spend time with them, ensuring their cut, colour and products are on point.

The legendary hair stylist has worked all over the world, having just returned from Dubai on the hunt for the most cutting-edge products, but his heart lies in KZN. In just the last five years the Gerald Wells company opened 26 new stores, with sons Wesley and Dylan involved in the business.

Now, Gerald admits to wanting to get “back into the playground,” returning to his roots, so to speak, and offering his world-class services to Ballito.

“I’m also excited to start training people again,” he adds. “Part of our business is building hairdressers and changing lives.”

+ yo u r fa sh io n p a ir

fre e!

T’S & C’S

Execuspecs BALLITO JUNCTION Lo cat e d at t h e pi ck n pay en t ra n c e Te l : 032 94 6 347 3 | b al l i t o@ exe c us t ores.c o. z a Bo o k o nl i n e at exe c u s p e c s.c o.z a

Find Gerald Wells at Lifestyle Centre Ballito Call 032 586 0554, follow Gerald Wells on Instagram @geraldwellshair, and find them on Facebook Gerald Wells Hair

SCAN NOW TO BUY!

WITH HYDRATED BY

@WomensHealthSA

@WomensHealthMagSA

Women’s Health South Africa

10 FOOD

CURRY, REVISITED

lifeandstyle.co.za

SPICE

Journalist Erica Platter and documentary photographer Clinton Friedman were finalists in the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards with their previous work, celebrating KZN flavours. This month, they launch Durban Curry: Up 2 Date, a culinary storybook rooted in the people and places in and around Durban and the North Coast.

“

This is not a cookbook,” says Erica Platter emphatically, but with a twinkle in her eye. “It’s a story book,” she adds, and it certainly tells a few familiar tales of KZN cuisine.

Although Durban Curry: Up 2 Date contains a host of delicious recipes, each entry has a story behind it, with considered portraiture from Clinton’s lens.

It’s a rich and engaging project, featuring familiar local faces and businesses such as Linda and Russell Burger from Spice restaurant (see their recipe extract, adjacent), Shamen Reddi from Impulse by the Sea, Brett Michielin of Mo-Zam-Bik, caterer Solly Manjra, chef Jacqui Rey and Cindy Valayadam of Cindy’s Umhlali Fresh Produce. It’s a who’s who of KZN cuisine, with a grass-roots feel to the recipes and profiles.

“When people think South African food, they automatically go to the Cape; it’s all boboties and waterblommetjies,” explains Erica, who first got the idea for writing books about KZN food when she and husband John were invited to China with the South African government. The tour was part of a celebration of diplomatic relations with China, but she noticed the South

African showcase relied heavily on Cape and Cape Malay dishes, without a hint of KZN flavour. She resolved to do something about it.

What followed was East Coast Tables in early 2011. It was such a hit, that it was followed by a series of similarly-themed books, all offering a different take on KZN flavours, and all collaborations between Erica and Clinton, who is responsible for the books’ visuals.

“Durban curry is a national treasure,” adds Erica, but there isn’t one universally accepted Durban curry recipe, and the book draws on the complex and nuanced evolutions of the dish.

With a foreward by Professor Ashwin Desai, placing the humble Durban curry both politically and historically, followed by an explanation of the “Up 2 Date” tag line, a reference to both how contemporary the book is, and the variety of potato most preferred by curry aficionados, it’s not only a great reference for recipes, but a fine read too. If you live on the North Coast, this book feels like home.

Here is an extract for Life & Style readers, with a recipe from Westbrooks’s Spice restaurant (spicerestaurant.co.za).

‘Durban Curry: Up 2 Date’, R395, is available at all major bookstores, as well as most of the restaurants and outlets mentioned in the book.

Nachos

These signature nachos are worth leaving home for.

Oven-baked tortilla chips layered with melted cheese and salsa with a side of classic guacamole. Piled high with delicious toppings, and just the perfect amount of crunch, you won’t be disappointed it’s their all-time best seller.

CURRIED BRINJAL & EGGS

“

LINDA Burger, of Spice restaurant on Westbrook Beach, devised this curry for her 2019 summer menu, and this book. Reinventing old classics and turning them into new hits is a speciality of hers. She grew up in nearby Tongaat, and spent much girlhood time at the Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga, where her mother was the housekeeper for many years, and where she met her husband, Eastern Cape boy Russell Burger. They were both ML Sultan Hotel School students doing their practicals there, and have been together ever since, travelling the world, working in hotels and restaurnats, and eventually realising the big dream of opening their own place. It’s relaxed, sea-breazy; the food matches.

Delicious, unpretentious, thoroughly local. Linda is up-to-date curry personified.

INGREDIENTS 2 eggs 50ml sunflower or olive oil ¼ tsp cumin seeds ¼ tsp black mustard seeds 1 sprig curry leaves 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 tsp garlic, grated 2 garlic cloves, peeled 1 Tbsp curry powder ¼ tsp turmeric 1 tsp ground coriander 2 medium, blanched, skinned, chopped tomatoes Salt to taste 2 large brinjals, diced, steeped in a little salted cold water 1 medium brinjal, sliced lengthways, steeped in milk and water A little flour sprinkled with a few cumin seeds A few stems of fresh dhania, chopped

Boil eggs until firm. Set aside. Heat half oil in a medium pan or pot. Add cumin, mustard seeds and curry leaves. When they begin to pop, add onions and garlic, then all the dry spices. Gently braise for about 2 mins on medium heat. Add tomatoes, and salt to taste. Cook another 4 mins. Drain brinjals, add to pan. Stir gently. Add ¼ cup fresh water. Allow curry to simmer gently until brinjals are cooked soft.

Take the medium, sliced brinjal out of it’s milk-and-water bath, pay dry with a paper towel, toss in flour and cumin seeds. Heat remaining oil. Deep fry brinjal, drain on paper towel.

Shell and halve the boiled eggs. Add to curry. Scatter with dhania leaves.

Serve with roti or rice, the deep-fried brinjal, and chilli-mint yogurt or cucumber raita.”

The Salsa Mexican Adventure Most South Africans love Mexican food and, when it’s good, it turns an ordinary occasion into a fiesta! We are delighted that Salsa at the Lifestyle Centre has been revitalized with an excellent team and the food has never been better.

This week we recommend two of their signature dishes:

Burritos

Toasted flour tortillas wrapped around a salsa fiesta. A classic from South of the border, SALSA Burritos are stuffed full of favour with a choice of Fresh Chicken, Beef or Pulled Pork fillings and wrapped in a delicious floury tortilla.

Try them with a traditional Margarita and…the party’s on!

032 815 0500

lifeandstyle.org.za

Supporting our SAPS

If you’re at a loss as to how you can give back this upcoming Mandela Day, consider the Umhlali SAPS and Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association event to upgrade the police station.

I

N one month’s time, on Thursday 18 July 2019, the country will once again join forces and contribute in some meaningful way toward fighting poverty and uplifting communities for the annual Mandela Day.

The Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association (DOCRRA) has committed to playing an increasingly active role in the many existing, and new, local social investment initiatives, and as their first initiative, DOCRRA has been requested to assist with the upgrade of the Umhlali Police Station.

They were approached by volunteers from the Umhlali SAPS Trauma Centre, as well as Ballito Helping Hands, to assist them in encouraging volunteers,

suppliers and service providers to participate in this endeavour, and to help co-ordinate the event.

The intent is to show the SAPS that the Dolphin Coast residents appreciate their efforts, and to help strengthen the morale of the police officers. The plan, explains DOCRRA, is to improve their working environment, and at the same time better the facilities for the people they serve.

This will entail improving the conditions of the building, workspaces, parking, signage, as well as the appearance of the police station.

♥ Services such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, tilers, painters, gardeners etc.

COMMUNITY 11 Financial donations are welcome, and will be managed as a dedicated fund by DOCRRA. EFT or direct payment to: DOCRRA, Nedbank (Ballito branch 131026), account number 1107889642, reference “Mandela Day”.

Email confirmation of payment to admin@docrra.co.za.

For more info call 064 737 2269.

The list of requirements is as follows: ♥ Volunteers to offer 67 minutes (or more) of their time and effort.

• Materials such as boards, tiles, paint, paint brushes and rollers. ♥ Bins, wooden benches, equipment, signage, poles etc.

• Old tyres, plant pots, plants, instant lawn, topsoil, compost, garden equipment etc. ♥ A small grader to level the ground.

• A skip for rubble removal.

the continues 1 june 2019 to 31 august 2019

300g Sirloin steak, with your choice of side

R75

at Ballito Junction only

Tc ‘n Cs apply

BALLITO JUNCTION | 032 856 0975

ballito@turnntender.co.za

www.turnntender.co.za

NEIGHBOURHOOD QUIZ HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THE NEIGHBOURHOOD? 88FM in partnership with Goldrush Bingo and Entertainment is offering you a chance to win some serious cash and vouchers for the Goldrush experience each week.

Every Thursday at 08h10 we play the Neighbourhood Quiz; five easy questions and you could be a winner.

To enter, WhatsApp your name and contact number to 071 185 1471 and we’ll call you!

IN OUR MONTHLY PROMOTIONS

CONGRATULATIONS TO LAST WEEK’S BALLITO NEIGHBORHOOD QUIZ WINNER, ESTAVAN DIPPENAAR!

12 88.FM

lifeandstyle.co.za

lifeandstyle.co.za

a roundup of some of ltsthe&Here’s Mango Surprises people and events featured

ager, “Seaweed” recently left his coastal on 88FM, TheSteve Voice Honneysett, of Ballito o the Midlands, where discovered recently – keeping youhe informed and a taste for

entertained!

number of local breweries up in the Midlands it’s (almost) impossible to get through the complete range in one afternoon.

It’s easier to order a tray of tasters, which comes with six small glasses on a wooden paddle, each with a variant of their local brew. This is the only way

of the Meander I was looking for something to take the edge off the more bitter beers and start to contemplate the switch to something else, which is when I came across a refreshing mangoinfused beer, called the Swinging Samango Mango Ale at the famous Cemetrees is the South African distributor of the world-renowned Johan Lombard from InSync Church chatted to Thabi about their Bierfassl restaurant and pub.

Bios Urn. Brent and Christine Westoby joined Dave to share insight life-changing workshop empowering couples struggling in their on this innovative burial alternative.

I remember my parentsmarriages. loved to mix lemonade with beer for homemade shandies on hot days, which is probably SEAWEED RECOMMENDS: where flavoured beer originated, but I *Visit groundcover.co.za and always found beers like Flying Fish too Lupa Ballito has just Life and11:54 Style page print ready.pdf Life and Style page print ready.pdf 1 8/27/18 AMOsteria sweet after the first one. jimgreen.co.za for handcrafted, launched some great new items to I initially thought the mango beer their menu! quality leather footwear and Go try them out and take advantage was going to have the same aftertaste, of their pizza and beer special. accessories. but as it turns out, it’s not as sweet and I found it a refreshing break from the Ryan Hunt from HUNT *Blueberry Café is a vibey new traditional bitterness.

PropertiesON announced OPERATING THE NORTH COAST S hot spot on Nottingham Road. Call The Midlands has capitalised on the launch of the final phase of Ballito’s home industries and a country living them on 033 266 7132 wildly successful vibe and is a welcome change from city Manor Estates on the life. There are a number of local brewers *Head to Bierfassl for good ‘Mike in the Morning’ where one can visit and watch the show. old-fashioned Austrian food and brewing process through the different C C cold beers. Call 033 266 6320 steps and of course, good restaurants Shabina Chetty from the new YOLO Party Shop at Tiffany’s If you want it cleaned and pressed on time, Pressed In Time will take M M Shopping Centre, Salt Rock,PHASE told Mike about 3 their exciting abound. care of all your laundry needs. Thabi chatted to Anita Jansen Van REGISTER YOUR For the energetic, thereabout aretheir hiking eco-friendlyNOW party supplies.

LAUNCHED! Rensburg services.

Y INTEREST IN PHASE 3 NOW: Y @88FM Ballito and biking trails all over theBUILT hills which Another quality development by T 082 786 4170 you can get through the mountain of helps to burn off those homemade treats ON BROUGHT TO YOU CM line CM- 071 185 1471 DAWN DUNNBYRUGBY UNITS E ryan@huntproperties.co.za variants without getting completely one can’t help but consume.TIME RAIN FARM Seaweed Steve whatsapp OR IT’enough S plastered.

MY A two-day visit is more than FROM presents the Daily MY Life 11:54 and Style page print ready.pdf 1 8/27/18 11:54 AM Ales, Lagers and Weiss make up timeLife to explore thepage route, soFREE I highly 1 Surf and Style print ready.pdf 8/27/18 AM Report on Mike CY most of the variants, and by the time recommend a short break from the CY in the Morning and I get up to the Nottingham Road end beach to the Midlands.

The Afternoon Drive CMY C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1 BED

R1.2

Life Life and Style page page printprint ready.pdf 1 and Style ready.pdf

CMY

THE AFTERNOON DRIVE IS POWERED THE MORNING NEWS IS BROUGHT THE MIDDAY NEWS IS BROUGHT BYBIDVEST MCCARTHY TOYOTA TO LIVING YOU BY BIRDHAVEN ESTATE YOU BALLITO

BY ZIMBALI LAKES SECURE ESTATE • EXCEPTIONAL FINISHES • TO PRIME LOCATION BALLITO

Life Life and Style page page printprint ready.pdf 1 and Style ready.pdf

8/27/18 11:5411:54 AM AM 1 8/27/18

on 88FM. THE MORNING FINANCIAL NEWS IS K BROUGHT TO YOU BY PSG WEALTH www.manorestates.co.za

8/27/18 11:5411:54 AM AM 1 8/27/18

HANNO SC

OPERATING ON THE COAST SINCE 1989 1989 OPERATING ON NORTH THE NORTH COAST SINCE

OPERATING ON THE COAST SINCE 1989 1989 OPERATING ON NORTH THE NORTH COAST SINCE

We are proud to announce OPERATING ON THE NORTH COAST SINCE 1989 OPERATING ON THE NORTH COAST SINCE 1989 blinds1@absam the opening of our new www.blinddesig THESE ADVERTS ARE ALSO FEATURED ON 88.0FMBallito CREATING A WIDER REACH & BIGGER CIRCULATION office.

BLINDS A L | allL ofIthem T O BLINDS | all of them B A L L I T O B C

C

M

M

Y

Y

CM

CM

MY

MY

CY

CY

CMY

K

C

THESE ADVERTS ARE ALSO FEATURED ON 88.0FM CREATING A WIDER REACH & BIGGER CIRCULATION

Y

CM

CM

C

K

CY

CMY

Waterproofing Since 2013

CM

K

SHUTTERS & AWNINGS

www.blinddesigns.co.za www.blinddesigns.co.za Shop 2, Union Tile Building, Moffat Rd, (Opposite Build-It)

• • •

Employee benefits Estate and trust services Financial planning

SPECIALISING IN Automative Aircon Repairs

THAT’S NOT A DEFENDER, IS IT? K

Tiling and Painting Jobs

• • •

SHUTTERS & AWNINGS

www.blinddesigns.co.za www.blinddesigns.co.za Shop 2, Union Tile Building, Moffat Rd, (Opposite Build-It)

SHUTTERS & AWNINGS SHUTTERS & AWNINGS

Investments (local and offshore) Stockbroking Short-term insurance (commercial and personal)

Shop 2,Shop Union2,Tile Building, Moffat Rd, (Opposite Build-It)Build-It) Union Tile Building, Moffat Rd, (Opposite

SHOP 27 KYALAMI PARK BALLITO blinds1@absamail.co.za TEL:032 9460341 FAX: 032 9460351

SHOP 27 KYALAMI PARK BALLITO

TEL:032 032xsa@gmail.com 9460351 Graeme 0839460341 529 5868 FAX: | Dampfi

BLINDS | all of them

blinds1@absamail.co.za blinds1@absamail.co.za

BLINDS | all| of BLINDS allthem of them

AUTO ELECTRICAL AND BATTERYFor quality CY • Concrete Torch-On AUTOSlab ELECTRICAL AND BATTERY The sum of all parts is always greater than the individual. advice at your doorstep, no matter where you live. Please contact our • Under TileSALES Waterproofi ng ofREPAIRS Patios, Balconies, Showers SALES AND REPAIRS AND team of professionals.

CMY HANNO SCHÜBEL • Rising VEHICLE and Penetrating Damp VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS DIAGNOSTICS • Project Management of Bathroom Renovations, K 032 946 3614 | 083 777 8750

CMY

HANNO SCHÜBEL HANNO SCHÜBEL

032 032 946 946 36143614 | 083| 083 777 777 87508750

SHUTTERS & AWNINGS

Automative Aircon Repairs

MY

CY

032 946 3614 | 083 7

MY

CY

CMY

K

SHUTTERS & AWNINGS SHUTTERS Y & AWNINGS

MY

M

Y

We offer a comprehensive range of financial services to cater to all your 032 032 946 946 36143614 | 083| 083 777 777 87508750 investment, insurance and financial planning needs. blinds1@absamail.co.za blinds1@absamail.co.za

Shop 2,Shop Union2,Tile Building, Moffat Rd, (Opposite Build-It)Build-It) Union Tile Building, Moffat Rd, (Opposite

CM

C

M

SPONSOR OF THE SURF REPORT

HANNO SCHÜBEL HANNO SCHÜBEL

CMY

services include: BLINDS | all| of BLINDS allthem ofOur them

Y

C

MY

M

M

SPONSOR OF THE K follow ourNEWS progress SPORTS

blinds1@absamail.co.za www.blinddesigns.co.za

www.blinddesigns.co.za

BLINDS | all of them

Ian Brewer

Grant

Jacqui

HANNO SCHÜBEL 032 946 3614 | 083 777 8750

.

Greig

Marnus

Clinton Mayne McDonough Steenkamp THE WASHLINE GUYS SHUTTERS & AWNINGS

•QUALITY ALUMINIUM

Shop 2, Union Tile Building, Moffat Rd, (Opposite Build-It)

Shop 2, Union Tile Building, Moffat Rd, (Opposite Build-It)

•5 YEAR GUARANTEE

BALLITO | T 0860 88 88 10 | Unit B211 Simbithi Office Park PSG Wealth Financial Planning (Pty) Ltd is an authorised financial services provider. FSP 728

FOR ALL YOUR POOL SOLUTIONS FOR FOR ALL ALL YOUR YOUR POOL POOL SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS FOR ALL YOUR POOL SOLUTIONS Pumps & Filters | Safety Nets

NO RUST

Pumps Filters || Safety Pumps & &Pool Filters Safety Nets Nets Supplies Pumps & Filters | Safety Nets Pool Supplies Pool Supplies Supplies Free Computerized Pool Water Analysis Pool Free Computerized Pool Water Free Computerized PoolMaintenance Water Analysis Analysis Pool Cleaning | Pool Free Computerized Pool Water Analysis Pool Cleaning | Pool Maintenance Pool Cleaning | Pool Maintenance Pool Cleaning | Pool Maintenance

FOLDAWAY QUALITY ALUMINIUM

1

Washlines, Clothes Horses & Aluminium Shelving at an Affordable Price

032 586 1582 032 586 Unit 3, Villa 032Commercial 586 1582 1582 Park, 032 586 1582 Unit 3, Villa Commercial 5 Garlicke Drive, Park, Unit 3, Villa Commercial Park, Unitballito@slimlinepools.co.za 3, 55Villa Commercial Park, Garlicke Drive, Garlicke Drive,032 Tiffany’s ballito@slimlinepools.co.za Centre, Salt Rock, 525 4322 5 Garlicke Drive, ballito@slimlinepools.co.za www.slimlinepools.com | slimlinepools ballito@slimlinepools.co.za

Suppliers and Installers

5 YEAR GUARANTEE

YOUR ONE STOP WASH LINE SUPPLIER Foldaway, Clothes Horses, Rotary Driers, Retractable etc & Shelving.

QUALITY, AFFORDABLE ALUMINIUM Suppliers and Installers

082 908 5777

info@thewashlineguys.co.za WE HANG OUT WITH THE BEST

Company

Stone

Ballito’s NUMBER Garth 082 908 5777 kzn@ f o x y f o l d a w a y. c o . z a Music Station w w w. f o x y f o l d a w a y. c o . z a

084 511 2228 NSPI award for best pool built in2228 SA 4 consecutive years www.slimlinepools.com || for slimlinepools 084 511 www.slimlinepools.com slimlinepools NSPI award for best built 44 consecutive www.slimlinepools.com | for slimlinepools NSPI award for best pool pool built in in SA SA for consecutive years years 076 139 1704 NSPI award for best pool built in SA for 4 consecutive years 076 139 1704

•WON’T RUST

YOURSUPPLIER LOCALwith COMPETITIVE YOUR LOCAL STATIONERY SUPPLIER PRICES,STATIONERY TOP BRANDS & EXCELLENT SERVICE. with COMPETITIVE PRICES TOP BRANDS & EXCELLENT SERVICE FREE DELIVERY from BALLITO to PALM LAKES OFFERING PRINTING, PHOTOCOPYING, BINDING AND LAMINATING SERVICES

FREE DELIVERY FRom BALLITo To PALM LAKES 032 586 1690 | 082 769 3704 032 586 1690 wilma@10uit10ballito.co.za Crowthorne Corner | Garlicke Drive | Ballito 5 Garlicke Drive, Unit 4, Villa Commercial Park

WE SPECIALIZE IN BONDS AND PROPERTY TRANSFERS WE SPECIALIZE IN BONDS AND PROPERTY TRANSFERS

Panel Conveyancers For: Panel | Conveyancers ABSA Bank| For: |ABSA Bank | | |Standard Bank |Standard Bank || |First National Bank |First National Bank|

Contact Helgaard Steenkamp Contact Helgaard Steenkamp for Professional Efficient Service for Professional Efficient Service

Tel | 032 946 0093 Email | h@hpsteenkamp.co.za Tel | Web | | h@hpsteenkamp.co.za www.hpsteenkamp.co.za Fax | 032 032 946 946 0093 1702 Email Fax| 032 946 1702 Web | www.hpsteenkamp.co.za H.P. Steenkamp House | 25 Sandra Road | Ballito | 4420 H.P. Steenkamp House | 25 Sandra Road | Ballito | 4420

Architectural Plan Printing Business Cards Laminating Name Badges

Number Plates Binding, Scanning Colour Copies Busines Services Designing

MRA Industrial Park, 8 Garland Street, Verulam, Tel: 031 837 2847 / 032 533 0007, Cell: 079 559 3813, Fax: 086 511 5504

Tel: 032 946 2767 Fax: 032 946 1823 copyink@telkomsa.net

18 Westmeath Avenue, Bonella, Durban, Tel: 031 837 2848 / 031 261 9127, Cell: 072 978 0293 email: info@stoneco.co.za

YOURSUPPLIER LOCALwith COMPETITIVE YOUR LOCAL STATIONERY SUPPLIER PRICES,STATIONERY TOP BRANDS & EXCELLENT SERVICE. with COMPETITIVE PRICES TOP BRANDS & EXCELLENT SERVICE FREE DELIVERY from BALLITO to PALM LAKES OFFERING PRINTING, PHOTOCOPYING, BINDING AND LAMINATING SERVICES

FREE DELIVERY FRom BALLITo To PALM LAKES 032 586 1690 | 082 769 3704 032 586 1690 wilma@10uit10ballito.co.za Crowthorne Corner | Garlicke Drive | Ballito 5 Garlicke Drive, Unit 4, Villa Commercial Park

GENERAL INTEREST 13

lifeandstyle.co.za

BALLITO

HELP US DONATE PET FOOD FOR HUMANS HELPING ANIMALS PLUS >>> We will give a 10% discount on any dry dog or cat food you purchase to donate!

Sat 29 June 2019

SPONSORED BY

Face Painting Food & Drink Stalls Raffle Pancakes & Candyfloss Scavenger Hunt Balloon Clown

BIGGER IUM now PREM le!! b a d is affor

25kg 25kg Heritage Heritage view view premium premium dog dog food food

BETTER

25kg complete maintenance dog food

plus free 385g tin >>>

CHEAPER

25kg complete classique dog food

NORMAL PRICE R380 EACH

25kg MONTEGO CLASSIC

NOW R385

1kg versele laga crispy muesli hamster

ONLY R418

700g versele laga hamster nature

25kg ideal dog food

plus free 385g tin >>>

ONLY R330

BUY 2

ONLY R700

Cat Box Pet Hyper Ballito Unit 12, Monza Park Garlicke Drive Ballito Business Park ballito@catbox.co.za 032 586 1710

ONLY R396

3kg complete cat food

plus free 385g tin >>>

10% off

all Kunduchi Dog jerseys

10kg ideal cat food

ONLY R89 ONLY R59

ONLY R121

ONLY R230

10% o ff all

bird toys

Less 10% on all www.pethypers.co.za

Royal Canin, IAMS, Eukanuba, Acana & hills

SPECIALS VALID UNTIL 30 JUNE 2019 ONLY AT BALLITO • E&O.E

14 MOTORING

lifeandstyle.co.za

THE BAKKIE WITH THE BEST STORIES Story and Pictures by Chris Marais

Ballito’s NUMBER Music Station

1 Julienne du Toit & Chris Marais

S

OMETIME back in 2003, I was standing toe-to-toe with a Sutherland sheep farmer after his deeply rutted middelmannetjie road had nearly ripped the guts out of our little low-slung sedan.

KB AND THE DESERT We were two books richer. There had been no flat tyres and no mishaps except for the temporary loss of keys in a big rocky outcrop near Keetmanshoop called The Giants’ Playground. The bakkie had growled its way perfectly across most of Namibia on the road trip of our lives.

We wrote A Drink of Dry Land – Journeys through Namibia and, soon after, we compiled Namibia Space, an accompanying photographic coffee table book. Having this bakkie had made us brave.

A NEW BAKKIE So the next week I walked into a dealership in Sandton and not long after I drove out in a brand-new metallic-grey Isuzu KB250 double-cab bakkie.

It was (and still is) the kind of vehicle that wants to leave the city traffic and head out into the open road. Parked there in our garage in Wendywood, the bakkie was nothing less than a call to adventure. A call we could not resist.

THE COASTAL CAPER It was no real challenge then, to propose the next great mission to Struik (now Random House), our publishers at the time: a three-month journey around the entire coastline of South Africa.

The Namibia travel books had hardly hit the shelves when we were already sitting up at Alexander Bay, the bakkie’s nose pointed south. We took a deep breath, buckled up and began another adventure.

It was less challenging for the bakkie than for us, this time around.

Most of the roads we traversed were sedan-friendly, so the bakkie became more of a people-mover. Especially when we ended up in a wall of fire on the N2 outside Storm’s River and had to rescue a dazed and desperate group of mill workers from the blaze and the accompanying smoke.

That trip yielded two more books: Shorelines – A Journey along the South African Coast and Coast to Coast –

We’d come to do a magazine story on some aspect of the guy’s farming enterprise, but the issue of his bad road took precedence and we ended up yelling at each other. As much as I hate to admit it, he had the last word: “Get yourself a blerry bakkie, man!” he shouted as he turned and stormed back into the shearing shed.

NAMIBIA CALLS In the spring of 2004, after much plotting and planning, my wife Jules and I drove out of Jo’burg and headed west on the N14 towards Upington, where I bought a second spare wheel.

We were taking on Namibia for three months, from toe to nose: entering the southern border at Noordoewer in midAugust, we finally left this marvellous blonde country via the Caprivi Strip in mid-November.

Life along South Africa’s shores.

BEHIND THE WHEEL It suddenly felt like we had two existences: one behind a computer writing a book, the other behind the wheel of our Isuzu KB on the hunt for a tale to tell. Little did we know that this would become the story of our lives – at least for the next 15 years.

The year 2006 saw us take on southern Africa in a big way, with extended trips into Lesotho, Swaziland, Botswana and Mozambique. We used the diff-lock facility only once, in the deep clay of a Lesotho mountain road after a rainstorm.

SAVED BY SHEPHERDS But a gaggle of young herders appeared, heaved us out of the clinging mud, jumped on the back and sang with gusto as we drove to the nearest village to buy them all treats at the trading store.

In 2007 the bakkie, Jules and I came to live in the Eastern Cape Karoo river town of Cradock. It was the Big Move of our lives, and one of our first local connections was with Andre Conradie, service manager at CAT Delta (now CAT Motors). Andre and his team have serviced our KB for the past 12 years, carefully prepping the vehicle before every long trip we take into the Karoo.

SMOUSING IN THE KAROO The bakkie then took on the brand name flashed across its canopy: Karoo Space. It became known all over this vast region, from Richmond to Riemvasmaak, Springbok to Somerset East.

We had, in the meantime, become Karoo Smouse, in the tradition of the old Jewish traders who used to traverse the dry country. Before a trip, the bakkie would first be loaded with book stocks to drop off at all the little padstalle and out of the way coffee shops in dorpies you probably never heard of.

TWOPACK AND KAROO SPACE The Karoo Space bakkie also made a new friend, in the form of a long-haired German Shepherd called TwoPack. Our new dog came to regard the back of the bakkie as his personal fiefdom, his safe place, over the years.

We have ventured deep into the khaki mountainlands of the Richtersveld and followed the great floods of 2011 from Gariep Dam right across to Kakamas, where the river roiled in the desert like a fat python, restless and deadly.

THE ROADS LESS TRAVELLED We have taken on the mountain passes of the southern Drakensberg and the Klein Karoo, with the bakkie relentlessly growling its way through all conditions and obstacles.

We have seen the Karoo in times of plenty and, like now, in desperate times of drought. We have prayed with the farmers of the Hard Man’s Karoo, partied with the youngsters at the AfrikaBurn events, sung at huiskonserte in the strangest little spots, driven through the blizzards of winter and endured a blistering sandstorm in the Kalahari.

KAROO MECHANICS LOVE THE KB “Aah, the Karoo Space bakkie!” a padstal owner in the middle of nowhere would exclaim, as she gifted us a couple of meaty pies “for what you do for the Karoo”. To Jules and me, this was far more rewarding than any of the journalism trophies we won back in our city days. The Isuzu KB had become the third essential cog in the Karoo Space wheel.

In our 16-year relationship with the vehicle, we have come to know many mechanics across the Karoo via: a clutch plate in Uniondale, a battery in Williston, a wheezing fuel pump in Willowmore. They all love to work on the old KBs, which they regard as “legend bakkies”.

THE NEXT CHAPTER The other day an old buddy asked me about mileage.

“Oh, about 320 000km,” I said.

“After 16 years? That’s only 20 000 a year!”

“It’s not the years, boet. It’s the road you took to get there,” I replied.

“And now?” was his next question.

“Now we go for another 320 000km,” was my answer. Isuzu and the Karoo are one…

Chris Marais and Julienne du Toit are award-winning journalists, magazine editors and published authors who moved from the Big Smoke to live and work in Cradock in the Karoo.

Their passion for the countryside, and the Karoo in particular, is infectious and their karoospace. co.za website is packed with adventure and opportunity.

Their books are available for purchase from their site.

MOTORING 15

lifeandstyle.co.za

NEW WHEELS FOR 88FM’S

AFTERNOON DRIVE

BALLITO

CAR SERVICE CENTRE Anton

Keep your eyes on the road for the all new

Toyota Corolla Hatch XS from McCarthy Toyota Ballito, now powering 88FM’s Afternoon Drive.

W

E have just taken delivery of the new Toyota Corolla Hatch XS and…it’s awesome!

This is a complete departure from the dependable but rather dowdy image of some of its earlier predecessors.

The new Corolla Hatch XS is built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture platform, which also underpins the Prius hybrid and C-HR compact family

car. So, apart from having a lower centre of gravity, a new multi-link rear suspension, 60 percent stiffer body and improved weight balance, the new Corolla is 40mm longer, 30mm wider (therefore generally more spacious) and 25mm lower than its predecessor.

The model we are driving has the automatic gearbox with a new Direct Shift continuously variable transmission that offers a 10-speed sequential shift mode, a mechanical launch gear and 3 driving modes: Eco, Normal and Sport – the latter is thrilling…if speed is your thing!

The interior of the new Corolla

Hatch XS gives you ample room to manoeuvre and the instrumentation is about as sexy as it comes. There’s a large digital display consul in the centre of a sweeping dash that becomes the captain of the ship…and it keeps you in touch, in tune and in control. The hatch with the folding rear seat combo gives you the ability to load up the gear, the groceries or the pets with no worries.

Oh, and did we mention that it’s fast?

It handles superbly and it’s such fun to drive that you’ll find any excuse to hit the road – now that’s what a good car should do for you!

Go and check it out for yourself at McCarthy Toyota Ballito in the Lifestyle Centre or call them on 032 946 7800 to arrange a test drive.

Wentzel

032 946 0568 084 477 7420 ballitocar@gmail.com

No.1 Anford Park Garlicke Road, Ballito