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LOWVELD LIVING ISSUE 61 | SUMMER 2017 | R30.00 (incl VAT)

GREAT LOWVELD GOLF COURSES | GROWING CYCADS KRUGER PARK BIRD SURVEY | WHIMSICAL WALKERSONS LUXURY AFRICAN TREE HOUSES | HOMEGROWN TALENT

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ed’s letter

A bucket list

is a fun and interesting undertaking because it reminds you of all the cool and amazing stuff that is out there, just waiting to be explored and discovered. My sister and I have an ongoing competition, keeping a tally of all the countries we have been to.

I’m on about 29 and I think she is just pipping me. There are rules too for this friendly sibling rivalry. Such as: a train journey through a country doesn’t count unless you get off the train. Hanging out at an airport in transit can also not be counted, however your country of birth does count.

My local bucket list includes a visit to Blyde River Canyon, eating at Bos Kombuis, camping in the Kruger (realistically sleeping in a chalet), eating pancakes at Harries in Graskop, writing a novel and learning to cook. Further afield I would like to scuba dive in Moz again, visit Namibia, complete my mini bucket list of seeing all 7 man-made wonders – Egypt’s pyramids, Macho Picchu in Peru and Greece’s colloseum are still to go. Visit Antarctica and see a polar bear in its natural habitat and the iceburgs before they disappear. And then live in Amsterdam or Japan and travel back to Taiwan to visit all my old haunts.

I hope some of our Bucket List contributors inspire you to get out and about. Enjoy!

To see the northern lights Lizette Steenburg, advertising sales

A chartered sea cruise on a luxury catamaran from Kosi Bay to Lamberts Bay stopping off harbour to harbour - then return home via Capetown on the Blue Train or Rovos Gavin Sinclair, sub-editor

Vist Machu Picchu in Peru Audrey Ford, advertising sales

My Bucket List is long, but the top item is to see the giant otters of the Amazon in their natural habitat Bev Tucker, Publisher

Eat braaied mielies from the side of the road Craig Biggs, designer

EDITOR Nicky Manson, nicky@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | EDITORIAL Nicky Manson, Faan Boshoff, Lynn Haken, Annelle Whyte, Mareike Pietzch, Diana Tipping-Woods ADVERTISING Audrey Ford audrey@lowveldlivingmagazine.com, Lizette Steenberg lizette@lowveldlivingmagazine.com PROOF READING EditPro | PHOTOGRAPHY Africa Photographic Services, Leon Marais | DESIGN Creative Union EDITORIAL info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com | DISTRIBUTION GMF Consulting | PRINTING Paarl Media KZN | CONTACT US 013 751 3330, 013 750 0049 | COVER PHOTO Loisaba Star Beds, www.elewana.com, Marsel Van Oosten © Copyright 2017 Lowveld Living. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of Lowveld Living Magazine or the publisher. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. All editorial information contained herein is, and remains, the property of Lowveld Living Magazine and/or its writers and/or photographers. Lowveld Living Magazine, its publisher, staff and contractors accept no liability for loss or damage in any form whatsoever arising from information, submissions or opinions expressed in this publication. Public comment and submissions are published at the sole discretion of Lowveld Living Magazine. E&OE.

The Lowveld South African Film Festival Brought to you by Casterbridge Cinema February 17 – March 2

Launched

in August 2016, My Father’s War is the headline film for the festival. Written and directed by South African Craig Gardner, the bilingual film explores the flawed relationship between a father, Dawid, and his 19-year-old rebellious teenage son, Dap. Edwin van der Walt plays the young conflicted son who is constantly at war with his father, while Stian Bam plays the dad, a veteran of the Angola Border War, and at war himself – torn between a past that shattered his life, and a future that holds little promise. Erica Wessels plays the wife and mother caught in the middle.

Dap has a series of dreams in which he is a combat soldier in the Border War in the 1980s. There he meets his father at the same age, and those dreams turn young Dap’s perception – and life – completely upside down. There’s no going back. But what is the way forward? Gardner explains, “The war has been used as a creative device to drive My Father’s War – the story of the father and son, towards a conclusion. We purposely do not take a moral standpoint on the conflict itself.

This is not a Border War movie – it is a relationship drama.“ Show times Tuesday to Saturday at 6pm with a show at 2.30pm on Tuesday

My Father’s War 17, 18, 21, 22 Feb

Skollie

23, 24, 25 Feb

Endless River 28 Feb , 1 & 2 March

No 61 |

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Johannesburg to Madikwe

in under an hour

Jamala, Madikwe

Start the weekend early with special local rates and shuttles from Johannesburg to Madikwe.

Federal Airlines is oering daily direct ights from Johannesburg to Madikwe at reduced rates for SA residents in conjunction with booking at a Madikwe Lodge associated with Federal Airlines. We believe that you should spend your time doing what you love and that is why, instead of driving; choose Federal Airlines where your adventure starts on the runway.

Flights can be booked through your travel agent or through one of our partner lodges.

shuttle@fedair.com | charters@fedair.com | +27 11 395 9000 | www.fedair.com

contents play

Books for the NY, great golf courses you need to try, acapella chats and gardening cycads

eat style go live

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Drinkie poos for Valentine’s Day and a wedding cake boss

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Two style gurus – in the jewellery and vintage clock business

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A Lowvelder’s bucket list, a trip to Walkersons and the biggest Kruger bird survey

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Tracy Todd’s newest achievement and a rising sculptor

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YOUR FIRST CHOICE TO LIVE, WORK, SHOP, PLAY

& be social in Mbombela

spaces

Star gaze from amazing tree houses and a restful home at The Rest

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Offering a complete, self-contained lifestyle with endless entertainment, dining and shopping opportunities. riversideparkprecinct www.riversidepark.co.za info@riversidepark.co.za

PLAY BOOKS FOR THE NEW YEAR | CYCAD KNOW-HOW LOWVELD GOLF COURSES: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW CHATTING WITH ACAPELLAS, THE SOIL

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revie ws

SA N FICTIO

Words Nicky Manson

Dream House by Craig Higginson: This is an SA author and story set in the Midlands. This is a second edition reprint with several add-ons from the author.

It’s not a murder mystery or a love story. It’s a simple story about a family living on their farm and the events they have lived through. Nothing startling happens.

No big event, no big twists and turns. Instead it’s the narrative that the author has artistically captured on paper that delicately tells the story. For me it is one of my best books in which nothing significant happens in the story.

R221, Pan Macmillan.

Switched at Birth by Jessica Pitchford: This is a harrowing story purely because it’s true. Two babies are swapped in an Eastrand hospital, and what follows is unimaginable for any parent. The story follows the trials and tribulations of the families involved and looks at other cases of baby swaps in SA. What is incredible to me is that one psychiatrist actually suggests swapping the kids back while they are under two years old, as at this age, they will not have any recollection of the events. Local author Pitchford creates an interesting and heartfelt story. vR220, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Bridget Jones Baby: The Diaries by Helen Fielding: Bridget is back in full force.

Written as a story instead of a journal entry, Bridge is as humorous as ever on the battleground of love with her hilarious side kicks. One for the fans. R290, Penguin Random House.

Memory Man by David Baldacci: Although Baldacci is a prolific writer, this is the first time I have read him and am now a huge fan. Memory Man follows the story of Amos Decker, who suffers from a brain condition after an accident, that results in him remembering every detail of everything that has ever happened to him since that day. This comes in handy when a killer starts killing seemingly random targets in his name. A thoroughly enjoyable who-dunnit story. R165, Pan Macmillan.

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TRUE STORY

play Carnal Innocence by Nora Roberts: This is a cute romance novel set in the South. Yet disrupting this evolution of a new romance are a couple of murders and a few psychotic characters. I think it’s meant to be a murder story with a romance blossoming on the side but I preferred the love bit purely for the southern accents and good oldfashioned descriptions of the area. R310, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Rogue Lawyer by John Grisham: I like Grisham books – easy to read courtroom dramas – but I loved Rogue Lawyer. Seemingly three stories in one, the effect is intriguing and suspensefilled. Great storylines and characters, you won’t put it down! R336, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

HOT READ

Secret Sisters by Jayne Ann Krentz: Twelve-year-old Madeline is attacked at her grandmother’s hotel. They leave shortly afterwards and start new lives. But when her grandmother dies, now an adult, Madeline must return to sell the old hotel and her appearance starts a sequence of events that is dangerous for everyone who knows her. An easy, yet thrilling read. R195, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

The Springbok Captains by Edward Griffiths and Stephen Nell: Just for the die-hard Bok supporters, the book explores the elite group of men who have called themselves Captain. R250, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Depraved Heart by Patricia Cornwell: While Kay Scarpetta is on the scene of a fresh murder, she receives some worrying and strange videos on her phone involving her niece. Completely distracted, Kay does the unthinkable – she leaves the scene of a crime. This is a big read but it’s slow moving and I was disappointed by the loose ends. For the keen followers of Scarpetta. R211, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

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for the kids Ottoline and the Purple Fox by Chris Riddell: Ottoline and her best friend have many adventures together, but nothing compared to the visit of the Purple Fox and their nightime escapades. Wonderful illustrations. Ages 8-10. R231(hard back), Pan Macmillan.

Timmy Failure, The Book You’re Not Supposed To Have by Stephan Pastis: You have already broken the rules by reading this review! Timmy is a kid detective and this is his private diary. Entertaining read for kids 8-12. Wonderful website too, www.timmyfailure.com. R143, Pan Macmillan.

The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Official Colouring Book by Paula Harrison: Step out of the wardrobe and into the amazing world of Narnia and all its famous characters. R230, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Sir Dancealot by T. Knapman: Jiving trolls and boogying bogglesnots, Sir Dancealot can defeat them all except perhaps a fire breathing dragon. R160, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

Paddington Little Library by Michael Bond: Four books follow the adventures of everyone’s favourite bear. R115, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

First Day At Bug School by S. Lloyd: A bright and rhythmic celebration of the first day of school with all the garden insect friends. R160, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

The Little Elephant Who Wants To Fall Asleep by Carl-Johan Forssen Ehrlin, illustrated

by Sydney Hanson: Need some help getting your little one to sleep? Then join Ellen the Elephant who is on a magical journey. R180, Penguin Random House.

Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Colouring Book Adventure: A gorgeous adventure indeed, pictures to colour including scenes from Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, The BFG and other classics. R230, Penguin Random House.

Bear Grylls’ In The Jungle Colouring Book: Facts, stats and great illustrations to colour in. R110, Jonathan Ball Publishers.

City Rooster by Claudia Eicker-Harris, illustrated by Juan Carlos Federico: As houses grew around the farms and more towns and cities grew, the farm rooster decides to go back to the country and recruit his city replacement. And so the auditions for a city rooster begin. R80, Penguin Random House.

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straight shooting

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Meet Buhle Mda, Luphindo Ngxanga and Ntsika Ngxanga, members of acapella group, The Soil, who recently played at Emnotweni Casino in the Lowveld, winning our hearts The trio met in high school 12 years ago via jam sessions they used to have during their break time.

When we asked them why acapella? “That’s all we know, all we had then was the passion and drive, and no musical education.” We chat to Ntsika and Buhle.

What is the best part about your job?

NTSIKA: The best part is that it doesn’t feel like it’s a job.

BUHLE: Being able to change people’s lives.

What inspires your music?

NTSIKA: God. Life. My family.

BUHLE: Everything, from the love we share with our families to poverty and everything we see and that affects us in our society Why the Lowveld?

NTSIKA: The love we get from the Lowveld is immense and I doubt we will ever get used to the

eccentric response we get from the people each time we stage a performance.

Favourite place you have performed?

NTSIKA: Apollo Theatre, Harlem Where would you like to play?

NTSIKA: Germany.

BUHLE: South Africa. There’s no place like home.

Local artists you admire?

NTSIKA: Stogie T and Ziyon.

BUHLE: Simphiwe Dana.

If you were a convicted person, what would your last meal be?

NTSIKA: Probably corn flakes. LOL. BUHLE: Iphuthu If you weren’t a musician, what would you be?

NTSIKA: Soccer player or a chemical engineer.

BUHLE MDA: Social worker.

If your house was burning, and you could save one thing, what would it be?

NTSIKA: If my family were already out, I’d definitely go back in for my time machine hard drive in my studio.

BUHLE: My pictures.

What’s next?

NTSIKA: Conquering all national and international stages, winning our first Grammy and making more music.

BUHLE: Promoting the new album and harmonizing the world with our music.

No 61 60 |

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the

Photo: Des Jacobs

gentleman’s game

Your comprehensive guide to golf courses in and around the Lowveld Words Lynn Haken

placed. Hitting straight and keeping on the fairway is highly recommended. 19th hole refreshments available on a beautiful veranda overlooking the 9th/18th.

BARBERTON GOLF CLUB Address: Crown/de Villiers St, Barberton. 013 712 2923 Course Rating: 70 Carts/Caddies: Yes/Yes Driving Range/Putting Green: Yes/Yes Visitors: Yes Pro Shop/Lessons: Yes/Yes Item of Note: Built in 1884, the Golf Club is THE OLDEST CLUB IN THE OLD TRANSVAAL. The site was used as a concentration camp during the Anglo Boer War. This charming old 9-hole course is actually owned by the local municipality and funded by the committee and members. There is a clubhouse, tennis court and swimming pool on site, as well as light refreshments freshly made. The Club offers very generous playing rates Fridays and Sundays. www.barbertongolfclub.co.za DRAKENSIG GOLF CLUB, HOEDSPRUIT Address: Quail St, Hoedspruit. 015 799 2071 Course Rating: 71 Carts/Caddies: Yes/A few Driving Range/Putting Green: Yes/Yes Visitors: Yes Pro Shop/Lessons/Club Hire: Yes/No/Yes Item of Note: Set in the Airforce Base at Hoedspruit.

This is a relaxed, easy-going 9/18 course within a tranquil environment in the Limpopo Province, flanked by the Drakensberg mountains. WATER COMES INTO PLAY ON FOUR OF THE NINE HOLES and 11 bunkers are strategically

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DRAKENZICHT THE MOUNTAIN LINKS Address: Portion 59 of Farm Sterkspruit, Schoemanskloof.

Thys van den Hoven 079 893 3505 Course Rating: 71 Carts/Caddies: Yes (own carts allowed)/No Designer: Thys van den Hoven 2009 Driving Range/Putting Green: No/Yes Pro shop/Lessons/Club Hire: Yes/No/Yes Visitors: Yes Item of Note: The lowest point on the course is 1316m above sea level with the highest point at an altitude of 1420m. The uphill and downhill shots will test your stamina.

Only an hour’s drive from Nelspruit and 7km from the N4 highway, this 9/18 hole is tucked away up in the Schoemanskloof.

Being a mountain climate, the mornings are cool and misty, the mist dissipating as the sun rises. Reedbuck, baboon and mongooses on the course are plentiful. THIS IS A MOUNTAIN LINKS COURSE, THEREBY OFFERING NATURAL LANDSCAPES WITH FEW TREES, IN A ROCKY MOUNTAINOUS AREA. Fairways play hard, and are rarely watered, and play can be a challenge due to wind. Careful club selection is required owing to long grass carries, and a few blind spots are in the offing. Meals can be taken at the clubhouse. www.drakenzicht.co.za

Photo: Des Jacobs

LEOPARD CREEK Address: Leopard Creek Country Club, Malelane. 013 791 2000 Course Rating: 74 Carts/Caddies: Yes and residents’ own/No Designer: Gary Player Driving Range/Putting Green: Yes/Yes Pro shop/Lessons: Yes/Yes Visitors: Upon application and bookings limited Item of Note: The beautiful Dylan Lewis sculptures around the course represent 24 hours in a leopard’s life, from awakening, finding its food and then sleeping.

Recognised as one of the most glamorous golf clubs in the world, Leopard Creek is convivial host to the famous annual Sunshine Tour’s Alfred Dunhill Championship. The course layout and innovative architecture ensures breathtaking landscapes and scenery throughout its 18 holes. LAKES AND SMALL STREAMS MEANDER THROUGH THE COURSE, adding beauty and interesting golf strategies. Extensive use has been made of natural water features and the famous 13th green offers outstanding views all the way up the Crocodile River and the edge of the Park itself. The Clubhouse’s covered patio offers dramatic views of both the 9th and 18th holes, with water being a decided hazard on both holes.

Meals can be taken at the restaurant but only for residents and golfing visitors. www.leopardcreek.co.za

bucket list course KAMBAKU (KOMATIPOORT) Address: 33 Rissik Street, Komatipoort. 083 258 4915 Course Rating: 71 Carts/Caddies: Yes/Yes Designer: Douw van der Merwe Driving Range/Putting Green: No/No Pro shop: Yes Visitors: Yes Item of Note: Golfers once witnessed one of the resident impalas being taken by a leopard on the second green. Being good golfers, they repaired the pitch marks.

At the confluence of the Crocodile and Komati Rivers, Kambaku lies bordering the Kruger National Park, nestled at the foothills of the Lebombo Mountains.

Named after one of the original great tuskers, this unique bushveld course is known for its beauty, yet challenging 9/18 holes. ELEPHANT, BUFFALO AND HIPPO ARE OFTEN SEEN IN THE RIVER DURING THE COURSE OF PLAY, and can be watched afterwards from the balcony. Birdlife is prolific. The restaurant is open to the public and the prawns are a must. The history of this course is that a group of dedicated farmers began clearing the site in 1997 with the course designer

play This 9/18 hole golf course is situated on the banks of the adding his expertise. The farmers used their own farming vehicles; someone provided cement; someone else sand and Crocodile River in the Onderberg Valley, 60km from Nelspruit. over the course of weeks, Kambaku was born. Grass was finally It offers golfers of all abilities THE ONDERBERG RANGE AS THE BACKDROP. The indigenous trees that surround the course planted in 2001 and play commenced. www.komatigolf.co.za house much birdlife and cheeky advice from the mischievous vervet monkeys will accompany your shots. The Golf Club is within surrounding fields of sugarcane, tropical fruits and game farms, and members play for free on a Tuesday. The name itself has its root in the Swazi word “Lala” which means “to sleep”. The Malelane Gate into the Kruger National Park is next door. www.malelanegolfclub.co.za

LYDENBERG GOLF CLUB Address: Buhrman Street, Lydenburg. 087 802 8341 Course Rating: 71 Carts/Caddies: Yes/Yes Driving Range/Putting Green: Yes/Yes Visitors: Yes Item of Note: The club is possibly one of the oldest in the area, being built in 1910.

Some 60km from the town of Dullstroom and located at the foothills of Long Tom Pass, the 9-hole Lydenburg Golf Club is SURROUNDED BY THE MAJESTY OF BOTH THE STEENKAMPSBERG AND MAUCHSBERG MOUNTAIN RANGES upon the Highveld escarpment of Mpumalanga. There is a club NELSPRUIT GOLF CLUB (MATUMI) house and they are the proud hosts of the annual Strelitzia Golf Address: 1 Wilhelm Street, Nelspruit. 013 744 0952 Course Rating: 71 Carts/Caddies: Yes (own carts allowed)/Yes Tournament. www.lydenburggolf.co.za Designer: Original 9 hole by Bob Grimsdell; converted to 18 holes in 1968. Remodelled by Peter Matcovitch in 1998.

MALELANE GOLF CLUB Driving Range/Putting Green: Yes/Yes Address: 570 Riverside Farm Road, Malelane. 013 790 0283 Course Rating: 71 Carts/Caddies: Yes (own carts allowed)/Yes Pro shop/Lessons/Club Hire: Yes/Yes/Yes Visitors: Yes Driving Range/Putting Green: No/Yes Item of Note: Each hole is named after an indigenous tree on Pro shop/Lessons/Club Hire: Yes/No/Yes the course.

Visitors: Yes Developed in the rocky outcrops of the suburbs of Nelspruit, Item of Note: There is a water pipe running through the course to provide water for the local sugar mills, which is then returned lies the 18-hole bushveld course of Nelspruit Golf Club within the residential Matumi Golf Estate. RED DUIKER, KLIPSPRINGER AND to the river after purification.

PORCUPINES ROAM THE COURSE AS WELL AS A FANTASTIC VARIETY OF BIRDS. The clubhouse boasts splendid views over the valley and offers refreshments. The club plays host to the annual Jock of the Bushveld Tournament; considered the largest amateur tournament in the world. www.nelspruitgolfclub.co.za PILGRIM’S REST GOLF CLUB Address: Lydenburg Road, Pilgrims Rest. 013 768 1434 Course Rating: 70 Carts/Caddies: Yes (own carts allowed)/Yes Driving Range/Putting Green: No/Yes Pro shop/Lessons/Club Hire: No/No/No

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Visitors: Yes Item of Note: The quaint sandstone clubhouse was once a school in Rustenburg, before being carefully dismantled and re-erected in Pilgrim’s Rest in 1985.

THIS FORESTED COURSE IS ONE OF THE MOST CHARMING SET AMID MOUNTAINS AND LARGE TREES PLANTED YEARS AGO by the Transvaal Gold Mining Estate and surrounded by five nature reserves. The Club was founded in 1932 and the materials for the course itself were all brought in by ox wagon.

Time seems to stand still at the clubhouse and the old Victorian

Bar houses artefacts and paintings from a bygone era. This 9/18 hole course offers different challenges on each 9, with fairly tight fairways, and the coolness from the mountains ensures a pleasant round of golf in the sub-tropical climate. Bar and restaurant on site. www.pilgrimsrestgolfclub.co.za

bucket list course SABI RIVER SUN GOLF CLUB Address: R536 Sabie Road, Hazyview. 013 737 4600 Course Rating: 70 Carts/Caddies: Yes (own carts not allowed)/Yes Designer: Original design by Golf Data, Pains Landscaping redesigned in 2011/2012 Driving Range/Putting Green: No/Yes Pro shop/Lessons/Club Hire: Yes/No/Yes Visitors: Yes Item of Note: The 16th Par 5 fairway meanders alongside the dam housing a hide. Crocodiles and hippos are plentiful.

Approximately 75km from Nelspruit, the Sabi River Sun parkland 18-hole golf course has the challenge of water coming into play on 16 of the holes. It is one of the most scenic courses in the Lowveld and is a firm favourite with locals, timeshare and hotel residents. OWING TO THE LOWVELD WEATHER CONDITIONS, PLAYABILITY IS GUARANTEED 12 MONTHS OF THE YEAR. Being under the Tsogo Sun hotel umbrella, the course is a favourite thanks to the holiday atmosphere. Great restaurants and bars. www.sabiriversungolf.co.za

play SABIE COUNTRY CLUB Address: Main Road, Sabie. 013 764 2282 Course Rating: 68 Carts/Caddies: Yes (own carts not allowed)/Yes Designer: Unknown. The course is almost 100 years old.

Driving Range/Putting Green: Yes/Yes Pro Shop/Club Hire/Lessons: Yes/Yes/Yes. Affiliated with the MGDB with lessons for beginners/youngsters each Wednesday.

Visitors: Yes Item of Note: Golf competitions each Friday and Saturday open to all. Fully licensed a la carte restaurant.

Sabie Country Club hosts a truly beautiful and challenging regulation 9/18 hole forest course. AT THE FOOT OF THE DRAKENSBERG MOUNTAIN RANGE, THE WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE IDYLLIC without the searing heat of the lower lying courses, although the wind can create challenging shots.

There is a river (donga) which bisects the golf course, which is currently dry but which plays an important role in the difficulty of the course on no less than eight of the nine holes. Only 63km from Nelspruit and about 40km from the towns of Hazyview and White River, it is fantastically situated. www.sabiegolf.com

Kruger Park Lodge is an iconic clubhouse situated in the town of Hazyview, just 10km from the Phabeni Gate of the Kruger National Park. Only one hours’ drive from Nelspruit (80km), THE COURSE IS A 9/18 HOLE COURSE WITH THE TWO TEE-BOXES STRATEGICALLY PLACED SO THAT EACH 9 HOLES IS A NEW CHALLENGE. Accommodation is available on site, as the Kruger Park Lodge is a resort course and chalets are also available for rental. There is also accommodation in the town itself. Snacks and meals are plentiful at Kruger Park Lodge owing to the resort’s extensive facilities and all visitors are welcome.

Rates and green fees are at very competitive prices and more information can be obtained from the website. www.krugerparklodge.co.za SKUKUZA GOLF CLUB Address: Skukuza Village, Kruger National Park. (nearest gate Phabeni, some 12km from Hazyview). 013 735 5543 Course Rating: 72 Carts/Caddies: Yes (own carts not allowed)/No Driving Range/Putting Green: No/Yes Pro shop/Lessons/Club Hire: Yes/No/Yes Visitors: Yes – Tee off times between 7 – 11am. Saturdays are generally reserved for members.

Item of Note: Due to the course being within the Kruger Park itself, visitors need to sign indemnity forms before playing and leave the clubhouse timeously to ensure departure times at the main gate are adhered to.

KRUGER PARK LODGE Address: Portia Shabangu Drive, Hazyview. 013 737 5099 Course Rating: 71 Carts/Caddies: Yes (own cart allowed)/Yes Designer: Gary Player Design Company Driving Range/Putting Green: No/Yes Pro shop/Lessons/Club Hire: Yes/No/Yes Visitors: Yes Item of Note: Parts of the course also border the hippo dam This 9/18 hole course is possibly the most unique course in and one’s tee-shot is often accompanied by a chorus of approval from semi-submerged hippos. Or disapproval… depending on SA as it’s actually within the unfenced sector of the Kruger Park itself. Built in 1972 as a recreational facility for the Skukuza staff, it the shot. is also now available to visitors. WILDLIFE IS A COMMON SIGHT ON THIS COURSE AND THE RETRIEVING OF ONE’S LOST BALLS IN WATER IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN. The third hole is actually called “bok doodgeslaan groot geskrik fontein.” The course meanders around a large central lake, which flanks several holes and although there are no bunkers, the main problems are the many trees. The clubhouse serves light refreshments. www.skukuzagolfclub.co.za

bucket list course

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On the Sabie River, find the idyllic

Kruger Park Lodge On the rich green verge of the historic Sabie River, surrounded by landscaped lawns and lush water front gardens, Kruger Park Lodge provides a sumptuous base for an unforgettable African adventure.

For the golfing enthusiast there’s the challenge of the resort’s superb 9-hole golf course designed by Gary Player, set among the indigenous flora of the Lowveld with Impala on the fairways and hippos in the waterholes.

Other facilities on the resort include 3 swimming pools, 4 tennis courts of which 2 is flood-lit, putt-putt, and a driving range on the adjoining property. With absolutely stunning views of the majestic Sabi River from your elevated deck, relaxing to the sounds of the river and the Mighty fish eagle. Summer days do not get better than this.

We have exciting Ownership Packages on offer: • Timeshare Ownership – 2 and 3 bedroom units , ownership on a fixed week basis priced from R 25 000.00 • Whole Ownership - Two, Three and Four Bedroom Fully Furnished Lodges priced from R2 300 000.00 • Fractional Ownership - Luxury three bedroom lodge starting from R550 000.00 • Turnkey building Packages Available • Limited stands available on this award winning Estate

For further information please visit our website: www.krugerparklodge.co.za Or Contact Rodney Erasmus on the following numbers: Tel: +27 13 737 5096 | Cell: +27 76 101 8000 | Fax: +27 13 737 5085 | rodneye@magicb.co.za

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WHITE RIVER COUNTRY CLUB Address: Vintage Drive, White River. 013 751 3781 Course Rating: Par 71 SAGA Rating 70 Carts/Caddies: Yes (own carts allowed)/Yes Designer: Original 9 hole course by local elders in 1923. Gary Player and Reg Taylor created a new 9 hole course in 1970. Golf Data another new 9 in 1990.

Driving Range/Putting Green: No/Yes Pro Shop/Lessons/Club Hire: Yes/Soon/Yes Visitors: Yes Item of Note: 12 of the 18 holes have some or other form of water that could come into play. THE PAR 12TH MEASURING 186M AT STROKE 7 IS REGARDED AS THE MOST DIFFICULT PAR 3 IN THE LOWVELD. Two of the Par 5’s, namely 7 and 11 are comparable to the Augusta National in their beauty, challenge and abundance of water.

White River Country Club is set amongst picturesque plantations on the banks of the White River and is one of the oldest clubs in the area, being surrounded by properties carefully designed to incorporate the natural look of the rocky outcrops.

Originally planned in the 1920s, the club now boasts tennis, squash, cricket and hockey facilities, and a swimming pool. There is a restaurant and all are welcome. www.whiterivercountryclub.co.za HIGHLAND GATE Address: Kruisfontein Road, Dullstroom.

087 287 4652 Course Rating: 70 Carts/Caddies: Carts only course – own carts allowed at minimal ‘corkage’ fee Driving Range/Putting Green: Yes/Yes Designer: Ernie Els Pro shop/Lessons/Club Hire: Yes/Yes/Yes Visitors: Yes Item of Note: Being a high altitude course, the climate is reminiscent of Scotland with misty mornings but mild temperatures.

Winters can be cold though and later tee times are offered.

This magnificent 18 hole course, some two hours from Nelspruit and only 12km from the charming town of Dullstroom, is set amongst the scenic Steenkampsberg mountains in Mpumalanga and also adjoins a property development catering to the luxury market. BEING A HIGH ALTITUDE COURSE, THE VIEWS SWEEP UP OVER THE ESCARPMENT AND DOWN IN THE VALLEY giving the golfer not only rolling fairways but mixed feelings on whether to continue the game or just stop and take in the beauty of the scenery. It is a links course with long veld grass along fairways and some water. The club offers mid-week reductions as well as pensioners’ reductions which attracts out-of-towners regularly. The Flycatcher restaurant is where meals are partaken and there is also the Halfway House for snacks. There is a Pro Shop where specialised Highland Gate branded clothing is for sale as are other stock items. www.highlandgate.co.za

bucket list course

play

back on the

green Anton Haig is one of the Lowveld’s golfing legends.

Surprising, as he is only 30 years old. He gives us a little know-how into the game of golf as a professional sport

Tell us a little history about your journey with this game.

Golf was not my first love. I was big into my cricket and other school activities. At the age of 11, I was diagnosed with two serious knee injuries. I was told that I would never be able to play any competitive sports again. After a six-month sabbatical, I asked the doctor if I could play golf. He said that I could play golf competitively, so long as I used a golf cart. I managed to achieve a scratch handicap by the time I was 12 years old and secured my South African colours at 15. When I was 16 I won the South African Junior and Senior Championships – the two biggest tournaments you can win as an amateur in this country. Shortly before my 17th birthday, I was chosen to represent South Africa at the Junior World Golf Championships in Japan. I ended up tearing both ligaments in my left knee and required surgery. It took an entire year of rehabilitation before I was able to play competitively again. I turned professional at 18 and have managed to win eight times worldwide during my professional career. My biggest win to date has been on the European Tour at the Johnny Walker Classic in Phuket in 2007.

Over the last 12 years, I have played on the Sunshine Tour, the Asian Tour and the European Tour. I have had a tough career and have spent a total of three years recovering from injuries.

At the age of 30, I have had three knee operations, three hip operations, a neck operation and a hand operation. I was told by my surgeons that I would never play golf competitively again and at this point, my life took a downward spiral. I turned to drugs and alcohol to suppress what I was feeling inside. I was suicidal and very close to pulling the plug. I thank God that two of my very good friends intervened and got me the

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help I needed to treat my addiction. I ended up at the South Coast Recovery Centre in Margate for 12 months. It was one of the hardest years of my life, but I am so grateful and blessed that I had the courage to complete my treatment programme.

I am back playing golf full time now and look forward to what 2017 has in store for me.

How old were you when you started playing?

I started playing golf at a very young age and hit my first shot when I was 5.

When did you realise that this is what you wanted to do?

When I won the SA Junior and Senior Championships, I realised that I was good enough to turn professional.

What is required to become a professional golfer?

I would say a good positive attitude is key. Talent can only get you so far, it’s the courage and willingness you have to practice until you get it right that gets you over the line. Having a good coach that you can trust is very important. You need to have patience and a calm mind, you need to be able to sacrifice not seeing your friends and family as you are constantly travelling and away from home.

Where can kids go play golf and learn about the game?

There are so many good golf courses in South Africa. Each

play course has a teaching professional. I would suggest getting your kids to see a golf coach to help them get their basic fundamentals right. I go to the Wanna Be a Champion Academy at Serengeti in Johannesburg. It has everything you need to become a great golfer.

Tips for golfers wanting to go pro?

You need to compete on a world stage to see whether you are good enough to play against the world’s best golfers. Playing abroad is not as easy as one thinks. You need to be high up on the golf rankings. I would suggest not turning professional unless you have represented your province.

Pros and cons of being a professional golfer?

There are wonderful opportunities and difficult challenges that come with being a professional golfer. On the up side, you travel the world, meet amazing people and play the best golf courses in the world in the best conditions. However, it is difficult to constantly be away from home, personal relationships can take strain and you have to sacrifice a lot in order to get to where you want to be.

Advice to parents whose kids want to play golf seriously?

Make sure your kids have a good golf coach. Take them to see a biokineticist and get them on a golf specific programme.

Make sure their nutrition is good and make time to visit a physiotherapist to help them stay injury free. Get them playing competitions regularly.

Any advice for aspiring golfers for fun or career?

Keep the game simple. Don’t get caught up trying to perfect your swing. Focus on picturing the target and trying to hit it.

Most importantly, don’t let your frustrations get the better of you. The calmer and more relaxed you are, the better you play.

Your favourite golf course to play in the world?

I love St Andrews in Scotland. Such a special place, and it’s where golf began.

Your favourite Lowveld courses?

Leopard Creek, Nelspruit Golf Course, White River Country Club, Sabie River Bungalows.

How important is the right kit?

I like to say that if you look good, you play well. It’s a gentleman’s game and looking smart is always a positive. Having good equipment is crucial. I am sponsored by Taylormade and their equipment is top notch. I suggest going to a place that does club fittings so that you are able to get the right equipment to perfect your game.

Golf cart or no golf cart?

If I am not playing in a tournament, I love using golf carts.

It gives me the opportunity to hit a few more shots on the course – I try play two balls to compete with myself. If you are looking to get fit, then I suggest walking the course. It also helps you to prepare for your next shot.

Electric club bag or traditional?

I prefer it the traditional way. I find it a lot easier to carry my own bag. If you can afford a caddy, then go for it!

garden talk

walking with cycads The Plant Whisperer offers gardening and landscaping tips and ideas Words Faan Boshof aka the Plant Whisperer Photos Etienne Oosthuizen

Cycads

date back to the age of dinosaurs making their nickname – living-fossils quite appropriate. Growing a prehistoric cycad garden is not as easy as it looks. Cycads are slow growers and fussy when it comes to their habitat and food, needing a little more time, patience and TLC to grow successfully. They prefer areas with a moderate climate, although certain species prefer tropical to subtropical areas. They do not like cold weather, and extreme climates with prolonged periods of intense heat or cold are not suitable.

Before you start on your cycad garden there is one very important thing to remember: Cycads are highly endangered and may not be removed or transported from their habitat without the proper permits from local and international authorities. Therefore, it is very important that you only buy these plants from established and highly reputable dealers.

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5 ENCEPHALARTOS SPECIES YOU MUST HAVE FROM AFRICA (no permits needed) Encephalartos whitelockii Encephalartos laurentianus Encephalartos ituriensis Encephalartos bubalinus Encephalartos gratus

garden talk

TAKING CARE OF CYCADS: Position: Depending on the species and its habitat requirements, most cycads can be grown in an open sunny location where there is air movement and warm sunlight. Temperatures below -5C will damage the leaves so the plants need a position away from severe frost or alternatively, substantial wrapping and lagging, to keep the old foliage in good condition.

Soil: Cycads are not fussy about soil so any good garden soil mixed with compost will do. A slow release fertilizer like Osmocote is a good base for your plant to thrive.

Feeding and Watering: During the summer, it’s important to maintain the moisture levels so twice weekly watering is required. During winter you can water sparingly. Don’t be tempted to over water. Indoor cycads must always have moist soil. Substantial feeding and watering in spring will stimulate new flushes of growth.

Companion plants: Cycads can be planted alongside most plants, and complement tropical species like bromeliads, ferns, aloes, palms, grasses, succulents and bamboo.

Join the Cycad Society of South Africa: www.cycadsociety.org With thanks to the Lowveld Botanical Gardens

5 MUST-HAVE CYCADS FROM AROUND THE WORLD (no permits needed) Bowenia spectabilis, Australia Microcycas calocoma, Cuba Ceratozamia Mexicana, Mexico Ceratozamia miqueliana, Mexico Cycas multipinata, China

NON-THREATENED CYCADS FROM SA (permits needed) Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos villosus Encephalartos natalensis Encephalartos lehmannii Encephalartos trispinosus

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EAT WINES & BUBBLES FOR VALENTINE’S DAY NEW TIPPLES IN THE LOWVELD | WEDDING CAKE GODDESS

drink

eat drink and be merry... some more

Neethlinghof’s Maria Noble Late Harvest 2014 honours the woman who started it all and is part of Neethlingshof’s esteemed Short Story Collection of fine wines. It’s made from 100% Weisser Riesling and is a superb dessert wine, which can be drunk now or kept for 10 years. Golden yellow in colour, you will find fruit cake, dried apricot, honey and peach aromas on the nose and taste fruit cake with honey and marmalade and a good sugar acid balance with a fresh, fruity palate. R160, available online from www.vinoteque.co.za and www.wine.co.za. www.neethlingshof.co.za

bubbles for your Valentine

Klein Zalze Vineyard Collection’s Shiraz 2013 reveals aromas of dark wild berries, supported by notes of spice and hints of sweet oak. Delicious if drinking now but also has brilliant ageing potential. R115, www.kleinezalze.co.za

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Doran Vineyard Incipio 2014 is a red blend of the Swartland’s most iconic light and dark varietals – Chenin Blanc and Shiraz. Incipio is Latin and denotes a beginning and signifies winemaker, Martin Lamprecht’s, revolutionary idea of cofermenting these unlikely varietals. On the nose, find fresh red fruit aromas with a spicy undertone and subtle notes of violet blossoms. The palate has a creamy texture that lingers, with light touches of peach and honey on the finish. R179, available from liquor stores. www.doranvineyards.co.za Shannon Vineyards Mount Bullet 2013. Previous vintages of this wine were considered some of the most highly rated Merlots in South Africa and the 2013 does not lag behind. Displays fragrant plums and dark cherries on the nose. The palate exhibits ripe fruit, freshness, gorgeous vanilla and spicy notes from the oak – silky and elegant, with a long finish. It can be enjoyed now or until 2020. Enjoy with a superb cut of beef. R325, available from Tops The Grove and Rooikat Liquors. www. shannonwines.com Kleine Zalze’s Méthode Cap Classiques Brut & Brut Rosé reveal layers of fruit flavour and modern yet classic packaging.

The non-vintage MCC Brut, R140, effervesces with aromas of strawberry, complemented by classic biscuit bouquet richness.

The non-vintage MCC Brut Rosé, R90, reveals a delicate pink hue, a lively sparkle and aromas of cherries and red berries.

Fresh and vibrant and delicious. www.kleinezalze.co.za Groote Post Merlot 2014. Gorgeous berry and plum aromas, with a subtle hint of mint, follow on to a lush palate with juicy blackberries and cedar notes. The wine is round and full, silky and elegant, with a long finish. A gorgeous wine. R128, available from Makro and Rooikat Liquors. www.grootepost.co.za

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bubbles for your Valentine

Haute Cabrière MCC Pierre Jourdan Blanc De Blancs. This 100% Chardonnay Cap Classique is grown, vinified and matured entirely on the HC farm. Thanks to the Chardonnnay grapes, there’s a lovely freshness on the nose.

This is complemented by a creaminess thanks to being 40% matured in French oak. Pairs well with seafood as well as desserts. Available from Makro or buy online at www.cabriere.co.za The Altydgedacht Sauvignon Blanc 2016 was produced from seven separate blocks of dry-land vineyards, each block contributing its own individual characteristics to the wine. The wine has a straw-coloured hue, while aromas and flavours include green pepper and green figs as well as passion fruit and guava, with tropical fruit dominating on the palate. Enjoy as an accompaniment to fish, sushi, poultry and a range of vegetarian dishes. R75. The Altydgedacht Gewürztraminer 2015 is made in its usual signature dry style. Gold Medal award winner at the 2016 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirit Awards, it is absolutely delish. A brilliant straw colour with a slight green tint on the edge.

The nose is perfumed, with good expression of spice, rose petals, Turkish delight and leechies. The palate follows through with floral flavours and a mélange of fruits. Great with spicy foods, or simply on its own. R95, both available from Tops at the Grove. www.altydgedacht.co.za Robertson’s Constitution Road range now includes a Chardonnay 2014 and Shiraz 2012. Adorned with a creative new Anthony Lane label design symbolising the democratic pillars of the South African Constitution, the Chardonnay offers aromas of citrus, buttered toast, marmalade and vanilla on the nose. A zesty acidity counters the rich creamy texture on the palate, and finishes with lingering citrus, pear and butterscotch. Pair it with grilled chicken and a summer salad. R180. The Shiraz boasts a radiant deep purple colour and rich aromas of ripe plum and blackberries. Its velvety palate will complement any red meat. R180, both available from Makro. www.robertsonwinery.co.za

drink

a toast to the end of

summer summer mixers

Introducing Original Mason’s, a yummy mix between cocktail and spritzer, to create a ready-to-drink alcoholic beverage. It’s a wine-based spritzer made with real fruit juice and natural flavourants. The new range includes favourite cocktail favourites: Think Cuban Mojito – lime and mint, Moscow Mule – fiery ginger with a dash of lime juice, Grand Cosmo – a blend of fresh cranberry, orange and lime and lastly, the Piña Colada – a tropical mix of coconut and pineapple. R98 per 4 pack, available from select Tops at Spar stores. www.drinkmasons.com

an apple a day…

SXOLLIE is the new craft cider on the block. Using quality ingredients and time-honoured methods, the apples are sourced from the cool orchards of Elgin. Available in three single-varietal ciders: discover Golden Delicious – the most-popular apple in Africa, Packham Pears and the deliciously tart Granny Smith cider. We love the cool and quirky packaging in a 330ml bottle with an eyecatching ‘X’ mosaic emblazoned across the bottle.

Available at premium liquor outlets nationwide. www.sxolliecider.com

pinkies up!

Twinings introduces its new premium range of pyramid shaped silk teabags.

Including the flavours of Gold Tip English Breakfast, London Strand Earl Grey, Budding Meadow Chamomile, Medley of Mint and Red Berry Infusion, the pyramid infuser tea bags have been specially designed to allow the leaves freedom to circulate and infuse. These whole leaf tea bags are biodegradable and can be enjoyed steaming hot or ice-cold. Box of 15 teabags is R149.99, available at selected Pick n Pay and Spars.

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eat

fabulous fantasy Baker & cake decorator, Milly Spies, has honed a weekend hobby into a thriving business

aka SillyMilly, has had a colourful career including au pairing, working with special needs kids and paraplegics and nursing. Born in a small Free State town called Bethulie, she married the love of her life, Robin Spies, in 2007 and after falling pregnant in 2010, decided to raise their children in the Lowveld. Today with two kids in tow, Christlene, five, and Ruben, three, Milly has turned her passion for baking into a cake-making business.

She makes speciality and celebration cakes – “I love doing cakes for my regulars whom I adore and especially those who give me carte blanche to do something new” – but her passion is for wedding cakes.

Milly baked her first cake for her daughter’s first birthday. “I had never baked before, never mind decorated a cake. I consulted a professional baker and friend in Pretoria on how to go about baking a Carousel Cake.

She told me to get a picture and bake the cake and just go with it. She made me six bunny figurines and the rest I did myself. It even revolved.

When she saw the final product, she told me that baking and decorating was the answer to my prayer.s” Slowly Milly began making cakes for friends as gifts. Baby shower cakes and birthday cakes, “I never thought about asking for money,” she laughs. “Then when my son turned one, people just began to offer me money to bake and it dawned on me that this is what God had given me.”

Words Nicky Manson Photos Erika Grove Photography Lazer Cut Toppers Elsa For Keep’s Sakes Fresh flowers Leoni Celebrate Flower Studio

Milly Spies

No 61 |

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eat

Milly spends a lot of time researching wedding cake trends and what the top guys are doing in the industry. “Trends are crucial to the continued success of any business. There are always new and upcoming decorators with a fresh approach and if you don’t keep up, you will lose customers,” she explains. “I don’t want to become predictable and boring so I spend a lot of time on the Internet viewing cakes and tutorials and then I stand up and go make a cake.”

The decorating of the cake is as important as the taste in the wedding business. Milly’s self-confessed perfectionism in life stands her in good stead here.

“I am fastidious about being neat and tidy. I can literally cry if a line is skew (and this happens) or if the fondant has a grainy look or if the figurine isn’t “just so”. I know 98% of clients don’t even see the imperfections, but to me they seem like big red sirens screaming off the cake.”

And favourite wedding cakes? Milly has a signature cake, which happened by accident. “My signature cake is my Frilled Cake. There are many frilled cakes but the rule of thumb is that the frill should not be too big. I made my first signature-frilled cake with big, smooth frills on an ombre charcoal to white wedding cake. I just loved the big frills and the feeling it created and so did the bride. Since then, I have had many requests for the Big Frilled cake. I do get the professionals who love to tell me “those frills are too big” and I just smile and think “and my customers love it!”.”

Chocolate Roses are also spectacular and great to look at on the big day, says Milly. “They look so real and they are so lovely to make. It is impossible to do the same effect with fondant. Unfortunately the humidity in Mpumalanga doesn’t give me much opportunity to do these roses. The dry, cooler seasons are more friendly though to the chocolate.” And inspiration? “I love to see the wedding dress…the dress inspires me so.”

So what does someone who works with cake every day do in her free time?

Bake some more of course. “I enjoy baking a nice classic cake for my family. The kids and I often bake shaped cookies or colourful cake balls (cake pops). They enjoy a cupcake, which they can decorate themselves or taking my tools and a few coloured balls of fondant, create their own décor and toppers. My son adores mixing and my daughter loves working with fondant and colours. It is our special bonding time.”

INFO Fantasy Cakery, White River. 081 493 3842. Facebook/Fantasy Cakery

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meet the team

I’m very blessed to have a wonderful team behind me. My mom in law, Christine Spies, started baking for us this year. She has a way of challenging the recipes to work better and taste greater and we always laugh in the kitchen.

I have also sub-contracted Elaine Thomas, who does all our Fancy Royal Icing cookies. She is a wonderful friend and great asset to us and does delicious and very detailed cookies which complements our baking. Alice Masinga is another integral part of our team and she works in the kitchen and makes sure the kitchen is clean and organised and that every tool and item is where it belongs.

My amazing husband is also always on hand to compliment and critique my work to drive me to do better.

tips FRESH, FRESH, FRESH

“I love to see the wedding dress.

The dress inspires me so”

Whichever ingredients you use, use the best quality and freshest. Use real butter, use Belgian cocoa, use farm cream, use free-range eggs and real flavours. If someone wants buttercream, use REAL butter. If someone wants a coffee cake, use real coffee, not coffee essence. Yes, it’s more expensive, but it makes all the difference.

BAKING The best way to get a moist cake is to place a slice of bread on top of your cake once it comes out the oven. Then cover the pan with a cloth till it’s cooled and remove the dried out slice. I don’t know the chemistry, but I know it works.

ubscribe & wi

A Mozambican getaway valued at over R15 000

Sign up to the LL experience and the latest copy will be delivered to you.

For only R204.84, you will receive a year’s subscription of six editions of Lowveld Living Magazine. Subscribe in the months of February and March 2017 and you stand the chance to win a trip to the Radisson Blu Hotel & Residence in Maputo. The prize includes a weekend for two inclusive of dinner and breakfast and non-alcoholic drinks in one of the new one-bedroom apartments overlooking the Bay of Maputo.

Discover a heavenly escape in Mozambique’s capital, perfectly situated to nearby gorgeous East African beaches. The hotel is also just seven kilometers from the city centre and close to Maputo International Airport (MPM); great for city explorations.

In addition to a picturesque location, the hotel boasts rooms and suites with quality features such as 24-hour room service and high-speed, wireless Internet access. Extended-stay visitors can enjoy the 5-star apartments furnished with modern décor and useful kitchen amenities. However, you won’t feel at all pressured to cook with three on-site restaurants and three bars to serve you. Other amenities include a well-equipped fitness room, a fabulous outdoor pool and sundeck. INFO 0800 994 300, www.radissonblu.com/hotel-maputo TO SUBSCRIBE – Call: 079 523 4671 or Email: lowveldliving@gmfc.co.za Ts & Cs Magazine: Rate applicable to one-year subscription of six editions at R204.84. Processing of the subscription may take up to a week.

STYLE STYLISH LIVING | MEET THE CLOCK GUY A JEWELLERY DESIGNER’S BEGINNINGS

style

new year,

new style for the love of fashion Meet Oscar & Rose (O&R), a brand new fashion label conceptulised by Noor Thandiwe Modise. The brand bridges the gap between African creativity and Western style, blending craft, design, tradition and colour. Vibrant and modern, just gorgeous. But shhhhhh... this is an exclusive preview!

Online shopping only opens February 24th. www.oscarandrose.co.za

mastering design Paying homage to Edgar Weylandts and his appreciation of the small details, The Edgar chair is a magnificent piece of furniture.

Crafted by hand from the finest Namibian leather, the slings are double-stitched and skillfully fastened with buckles and waxed steel pins. Available from Weylandts, Nelspruit.

fun for the kids Super heroes, princesses and movie themes – no more “I’m bored” guaranteed. Our fave is the Frozen puzzle in lunch tin R149.99, great for back to school. Available from Toyzone Nelspruit and Checkers Hyper.

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sparkle in summer Introducing the amphibious outdoor loungers from WAZ Outdoor. Equally at home on land or water, the fabric stands up to chlorinated, salt and rain water, has anti-fungal properties and is guaranteed for two years. We love the Metallic Taupe range, as it sparkles in the sun. Priced from R11 995 and available at www.WAZoutdoor.com. Delivery cost excluded.

style your ears Umjindi Jewellery is based in Barberton and has been creating beautiful pieces since 2002. Inspired by their local environment and people, the creations are gorgeous; a mix of modern and old. We love the Nukain Jewels Collection. Inspired by the artwork of Nukain Mabuza, it’s made up from Sterling Silver combined with Enamel. 013 712 5807, info@umjindijewellery.co.za, www.umjindijewellery.co.za.

Win a pair of Nukain earrings valued at R450. To enter email your contact details to info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com and put ‘Umjindi‘ in the subject box. Ts & Cs apply. Closing date is March 31, 2017.

WIN !

PRINGLE LOGO new 9/14/07 12:07 PM Page 1 C

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style body bliss Nivea’s Care Shower Cream is creamy & delicious and we cannot live without it. Available in Coconut or Magnolia – our favourite – from R32.99 (250ml).

We are also loving Labello’s Lip Butter Vanilla & Macadamia. It smells great and feels great thanks to the moisturising formula contains Hydra IQ, Shea Butter and Almond Oil. R32.99. Available from all pharmacies and supermarkets.

unique ceramics Trixi Junge Ceramics can be found at the 24 Degrees South centre in Hoedspruit and is home to a wonderful array of handmade pottery pieces. Trixi works exclusively in stoneware and the pieces are high fired in order to render them microwave and dishwasher friendly. Pop in and visit the unique ceramic collection for yourself. 24 Degrees South, R531, Hoedspruit, www.24degreessouth.co.za

twinkle twinkle little star How gorgeous are these lights by Japanese designer Arihiro Miyake. They use 54 LED bulbs powered by positive and negative steel wire. Called the Coppélia, Arihiro has taken the traditional chandelier and turned it on its head. Available online at www.cremadesign.co.za

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all that dazzles Spoil your Valentine this month with diamonds galore from Violet & Rose Jewellery Co. Commission something special or browse the beautiful collections on display. You could also save yourself some trouble and win your beloved an 18 carat, white gold, solitaire diamond ring in the month of February valued at R15 000. Violet & Rose, Ilanga Mall, 013 742 2267, sales@violetrose.co.za To enter, send your contact details to info@lowveldlivingmagazine.com and put ‘Violet & Rose’ in the subject box. Closing date is February 25, 2017. Ts & Cs apply.

N!

WI

keep cool Timber Fans offer the ideal solution for balmy Lowveld days. Founded in 2000 by refrigeration engineer Horst Hutter, the goal was to produce a ceiling fan that was not only functional but an expression of classic design and aesthetic appeal, combined with superior quality materials and engineering precision. Today, they proudly describe themselves as the makers of “South Africa’s finest handcrafted ceiling fans”. Whether it’s a modern look or a more traditional classic fan you are looking for, there is a huge variety to choose from with options in wood and metal finishes. 044 382 2369, www.timberfans.com

bye-bye blackheads Being a teenager is tough enough so don’t let your kids suffer more than they have to when it comes to their skin.

Keep those dreaded pimples at bay with Sorbet’s Clear Start range; developed by the folks at Dermalogica, each product in the range aims to combat blackheads, breakouts, spots and oily skin. Available from Sorbet, The Grove Shopping Centre, Mbombela, www.sorbet.co.za

“Say I do” with Violet & Rose, custom jewelry designers. stocklists of: Shop 69UG Ilanga Mall 013 742 2267 sales@violetrose.co.za

style

meet Violet & Rose

all that sparkles

Melissa Skinner, 33, is the owner of Violet and Rose Jewellery Co, engaged to be married in the near future (watch this space) and the proud mother of two beautiful daughters, Kara Violet, aged nine, and, Milla Rose, aged four

Why jewellery design? Jewellery and manufacturing is in my blood – I come from a family of engineers, miners and metallurgists. I grew up with parents who believe if you put your mind to anything you can achieve it. Life is my school.

People are my educators. I strive to learn something new every day.

How did you learn the trade? My jewellery story starts with my uncle James, who I went to work with when I was 17 years old. He had a little silver manufacturing and retail shop in Harare and he gave me the mental tools I needed and opened my mind to the possibilities of his trade. One of my greatest mentors was Johan Strydom of Juweel Kuns, an interesting (chain smoking) character with piercing blue eyes. He was my best teacher, mentor and eventually my friend.

I met so many talented (teachers) goldsmiths and good friends at this time and I qualified through Juweel Kuns in 2007.

After starting my own workshop in my garage, I proudly opened Violet and Rose Jewellery Co on April 2, 2014 with the help of my friends and the support of my family.

What’s the hardest part of jewellery design? We service a large section in our industry so things can go wrong. Trying to please everybody is hard and you don’t always get it right. I try to treat these as challenges that I can overcome.

What inspires your designs? My customers inspire my creations; I like to design for the individual and not for commerce.

I love interpreting people and what they like into their own customised pieces. We follow the international market for ideas and visual brain food and we love providing a niche service experience.

What materials do you use? We manufacture in gold platinum and silver, and are more than happy to cast in palladium.

Casting allows you a bit more freedom and flexibility. Jewellery manufacturing is fast becoming a largely computerised industry – so we strive to keep up with the industry and keep a balance between computer design and handmade manufacturing. We will always advise our clients which type of manufacturing process would give them the best and most desirable outcome.

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style

Something no one knows about you? What people might not know about me is that I never matriculated, but still qualified as a goldsmith. My business prototype that I am striving for is transparency; this is the reason we have a window looking into our workshop – trust and honesty.

What’s in your future? I would love to get an engraving business going.

Possibly a restaurant…

INFO Shop UG 69a Ilanga Mall, 079 036 9889, 013 742 2267 melissa@violetrose.co.za Photos Hilton Kotze

Design Quarter, Amanzi Street, Mbombela

style

clocks n other stuff

meet creative union

’

Creative Union is the brainchild of graphic designer Craig Biggs. It’s a showroom come studio come workshop and displays an eclectic mix of antique clocks, cuckoo clocks, pocket watches and custom-made lights

Tell us about yourself. Married to Tracey with two kids, Timothy and Tristyn, three cats and a dog. I have been in the creative industry for almost 30 years.

How did Creative Union come to be? Passion. I needed to find a way I could do what I wanted and keep it under one banner while making money at the same time. Merging MadBrand – graphic design studio, The Clock Guy – vintage clock repair and restoration and lighting/upcycling design.

How and why the interest in clocks? There is only crap on TV so I had to find something to do in the evenings. It all started with vintage lighters. I would buy and restore them, nothing too complicated. Then it was vintage pens, old Parkers, Sheaffers, Conways etc. Whilst trolling the antique and secondhand shops in the area, I saw three antique clocks for sale (not in good nick) and I thought this could be fun… and seven years and about a 100 clocks later, I find myself at Casterbridge.

Is there a course available to learn how to fix clocks? There is an online course offered by the Horological Society in the UK but with our Rand value being zero, the courses are prohibitively expensive. However, there is a load of info available online, as well as forums which are helpful.

So what’s the real passion? Creating stuff. Graphic design while creative is always done to a client’s brief and has specific criteria.

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Creating lighting designs are free of any constraints, and it’s pretty cool when an idea in your head becomes a reality and someone walks into the shop and buys it. Clocks, this is a different story. It all about the craftsmanship from an era so far removed from the throw-away society we are living today. One of the oldest clocks I have had in for repair was from the late 1700s. It was brought in with its full history from its first owner to its current owner. To work on a clock that is well over 200 years old is something special.

How are you inspired? Whilst I would like to say my pieces are inspired by something in nature or that they have some deeper meaning – it really is taking something that has been done before and making it better.

What unusual items have you made? We have converted a 120 year old Jongmanskas into a drinks cabinet, with mirrored sides and LED strip lighting. The challenge on this was to do the conversion without damaging the kas. We have an exhaust vent from a Boeing engine that will be converted into a hanging light and a 1959 Hoover washing machine transformed into a wine cooler.

As a collector, what do you collect? Anything old I can afford; needless to say I don’t have a very big collection of anything.

Tell us something no one else knows? I am actually a happy person.

What can we expect in the future? Expanding the lighting design side of the business and becoming the go-to guy for clock repair.

Do you have a team behind you? Yep, it is my wife, Tracey. She is fantastic with the admin side of the business and keeps me in check with reality. Whilst it’s nice to be creative, there is always a bill or two that needs to be paid.

INFO Creative Union, Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre, 082 300 5002, craig@creative-union.co.za Photos Anthon Wessels, Tristyn Biggs

GO The 2017 Bucket List | Kruger Park’s latest bird survey Wandering Walkersons

go This page: Southern Ground Hornbill, Opposite: Kori Bustard

turning kruger green Words Peter Lawson Photos Duncan McKenzie; Jacques de Villiers; Peter Lawson; University of Cape Town; Bird photos Leon Marais.

In 2013 a bird census was launched by the University of Cape Town and SANParks Scientific Services in the Kruger National Park with the goal of creating a comprehensive database for scientific research. One of the country’s best known amateur ornithologists, the Lowveld’s very own Peter Lawson, was chosen to lead the field work last year. He wrote this personal account for Lowveld Living 44

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The project

was to be a subsidiary of the second Southern African Bird Atlas Project (SABAP2). It was registered to take place over a period of three years, expiring on 31 December 2016. It started in January 2014 and was completed ahead of schedule in late November 2016. BirdLife Lowveld in Nelspruit took it under their wing and were instrumental in negotiating finance, as a project of this nature is expensive to operate.

A considerable area adjoining KNP and private reserves outside the western and southern boundaries were included in the study area; the reason being to ascertain bird populations in a large protected area, as against heavily populated and stressed areas including human sprawl, rural settlements, towns and farmland. This turned out to be an important decision as it produced many surprising and unexpected results.

The entire study area was divided into small blocks, known as pentads, of approximately 10 x 9kms and bird listings were to be done separately for each pentad, covering as many habitats as possible. Four individual lists per pentad or more was the target set, and each list had to be for a minimum of two hours. In total 446 pentads needed to be covered. The pentads were coloured green on the website map after they were covered four times, with brighter colours when covered more than the minimum.

Due to the greening of pentads on the map, BirdLife Lowveld appropriately gave the project the name “Turning Kruger Green” (TKG).

Completion of the project in three years would seem like an impossible task when 446 pentads require 1784 bird lists to be made in a minimum of 3568 hours, but not so. With just one month left for completion the project was brought to finality. My responsibility as Project Leader, motivated by my ambition, was to see this project through.

Not all pentads are off the beaten track and many are on tourist routes or outside Kruger National Park. These have been covered by enthusiastic bird atlasers registered

by SABAP2 but not for the TKG project. Without these “Citizen Scientists”, turning Kruger green would not have been possible in a three year period and I am exceedingly grateful to the many people who have helped to make my dream come true.

I must say, though, that many bird atlasers were reluctant to cover pentads in the

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From clockwise: Cattle grazing south of the Kruger National Park; Ian Whyte birding in the Lebombo Mountains; Green Backed Cameroptera; Yellow Throated longclaw

rural areas and the many pentads in these areas have been covered by myself and the few birders brave enough to do so. To cover all areas properly it has often been necessary to work in some really rough places, but no serious problems were encountered. This sounds surprising given that we drove very slowly, with the windows wide open to hear birds and made frequent stops with the engine cut, usually leaving the doors unlocked so we could exit rapidly for the best sightings.

There were one or two nerve wracking incidents though. One day I was parked on a bridge south of Kruger near the Jeppes Reef border post, but away from the main road. I was alone at the time without an assistant. There were a number of birds in the water below and I was checking them with my binoculars through my open window when I heard the passenger door of my vehicle open. I turned and there seated beside me was a young girl with dangling earrings and a smiling face covered in make-up. She fluttered her eyes as she looked at me and said, “I want to be your friend”. My reply was that I was too old to have a young friend like her. Her immediate response was, “But I can help you”. It was not easy persuading her to leave and when she did so she turned and blew me a kiss with a big smile. Now that was hazardous!

Many people have enquired about the hazards of working off the beaten track in KNP, but to me the privilege of being permitted to do so was the best thing that could have happened to me in my latter years. Sometimes we would be in the middle of nowhere with neither sound nor sight of anything human, and I had to constantly remind myself that I was in actual fact in the Kruger. There was serious 4x4 driving at times, often no cellphone signal, the chance of getting lost or having a vehicle breakdown, driving in extreme temperatures at times without air-conditioning, being caught up in antipoaching operations, or close encounters with elephants, but all these things were put out of my mind completely and I was able to concentrate fully on the enjoyable task that I was there for.

Elephants are my favourites and I just love these gentle giants. Yes, we did have many close encounters but nothing life threatening. On one occasion we were north of the Sabie River in a pentad in the foothills of the Lebombo Mountains. It was tradition that on reaching a target pentad in the early morning we start with a hot mug of

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“MANY PEOPLE HAVE ENQUIRED ABOUT HAZARDS OF WORKING OFF THE BEATEN TRACK IN KNP, BUT TO ME THE PRIVILEGE OF BEING PERMITTED TO DO SO WAS THE BEST THING THAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED TO ME IN MY LATTER YEARS”

From clockwise: Scarlet Chested Sun Bird; Duncan Mckenzie looking for birds in Bush willow scrub; Secratary Bird

coffee while listing birds, and I had set my telescope up on a tripod to view the distant river. I was focusing on some birds with a steaming mug of coffee in one hand, when my assistant, Tom, calmly said, “Look what’s coming�. Thinking he was referring to an approaching bird I looked up, straight into the face of a huge bull elephant. I was in two minds as to whether I should save my coffee or my scope, but the old chap was very polite and walked around us to continue his journey.

Recent findings show some interesting and, in some cases, startling results. For instance, probably due to the over-population of elephants, there has been drastic habitat change in many areas. Bush encroachment in once pristine open grassland has resulted in serious decline of some of our large birds which are icons. To add to this, many large trees used for nesting purposes have been felled or ring barked. Comparison between this study and one done 20 years ago indicate that the Secretary bird had a median reporting rate of 20.21% during the previous bird atlas project and it is now 0.38%. Southern Ground Hornbill has decreased from 31.36% to 9.26% and for Kori Bustard the figures are 24.59% down to 2.38%. On the other hand, bush encroachment has favoured certain species such as Long-billed Crombec, Sombre Greenbul, Yellowbreasted Apalis, Green-backed Cameroptera and the migrant Marsh Warbler, to name just a few.

The comparison of bird species inside the protected areas and settled areas to the west shows some alarming results. One would expect most birds that frequent the protected areas to be absent or far less common on the outside, but that is not always the case. For instance two well known garden birds that people are familiar with are Scarlet-chested Sunbird and Cape White-eye. The population of these species is almost double on the outside and the reason is that the one is a nectar feeder and the other feeds mainly on fruit, both of which are profuse in rural gardens and scarce inside the protected areas. The same applies to some grassland species such as Yellow-throated Longclaw, Rufous-naped Lark and African Pipit to name but a few. Suitable habitats inside Kruger have been considerably reduced due to bush encroachment, whereas on the outside in rural areas, trees are felled for firewood and large areas are over-grazed by cattle and goats, to form artificial, but suitable habitats for such species.

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From clockwise: Sabie gorge on the eastern boundary; Violet Eared Waxbill; Peter birding in the Lebombo Mountains; Rudds Apalis;

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Then the reverse applies to birds such as European Roller, which likes to perch on dead branches waiting for beetles and the like to appear on the ground below to feed on. Perches of this nature are plentiful in protected areas but virtually absent in the rural areas due to firewood collection. Most vultures, eagles and storks are scarce on the outside as well due to large nesting and perching trees being felled in human habituated areas, as well as disturbances when feeding by people and numerous dogs.

All this has been written up in a scientific paper which is available to anyone interested. To download the paper, go to the website http://bo.adu.org.za/content. php?id=261 and click on Download PDF (full text). Further research resulting from our findings will no doubt be forthcoming to ascertain ways of protecting endangered and threatened species, as well as habitats.

We frequently get asked when returning from field trips, “what good birds did you find?” My reply is usually, “all birds are good birds when atlasing as every species, even the common ones, are important for data collection”. However, we did often come across ‘specials’ worth a mention. One of these is Buffy Pipit, which is uncommon in Kruger and seldom seen on tourist routes, and yet we encountered them on many occasions off the beaten track, usually in the foothills of the Lebombo Mountains or in the hilly Stolsnek section. Then first time breeding records of Racket-tailed Rollers were obtained in the Makuleke concession far north. Also in the far north east, the Nwambiya sandveld, was one of the most delightful areas to visit, holding species not found elsewhere in Kruger such as Pink-throated Twinspot and Rudd’s Apalis. One of my favourite Kruger rarities we encountered in dry areas sometimes is the gorgeous little Violet-eared Waxbill.

In spite of some serious habitat changes in parts of Kruger and spreading human settlements on the outside, the Lowveld still offers some of the best birding in South Africa. Leading this project has been one of the best things I have done and I have seen places I would never have been to otherwise. In conclusion I must sincerely thank all who have been involved, including SANParks Scientific Services, section rangers, citizen scientists, team members, ADU university staff and the bird club committee, and of course the numerous individuals and organisations who contributed to funding one of the best bird projects ever to have taken place in Kruger National Park.

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“I LOOKED UP, STRAIGHT INTO THE FACE OF A HUGE BULL ELEPHANT”

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the

bucket list The New Year is shining and is full of promise. 2017 is the year of opportunity and adventures and we chat to Lowvelders about their bucket lists

Del-Monte Roberts

is a Property Professional at Zest Properties, and co-owner of Dullstroom Accommodation.

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THE LOWVELD BUCKET LIST Visit Blyde River Canyon, haven’t been there in many years.

Visit the Kruger Park.

Play more golf at Highland Gate, in Dullstroom.

Visit the Sudwala Caves.

Eat at Zest Restaurant and stay over at Kavinga.

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THE SA BUCKET LIST

Train trip from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

Eat at the Test Kitchen in Cape Town.

Explore the Karoo.

Take a flip in a light aircraft doing aerobatics.

Play golf at Fancourt.

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THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

Visit Finland and go kayaking in the Baltic Sea. Visit Greece. Go sailing in Croatia.

Attend a five-day cricket test at Lord’s in the UK. Visit Swakopmund, Namibia.

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Leon Marais is a partner in Lawson’s Birding, Wildlife

and Custom Safaris and has been a resident in the Nelspruit for 10 years (and he’s very happy to be there!).

He’s a birding and wildlife guide, taking clients to natural history destinations across South Africa and other countries in the region.

THE LOWVELD BUCKET LIST

Catch a tigerfish on fly at Komatipoort. So close to home but like many things on your •doorstep, you tend to just not get around to doing them.

Do the Barberton Geo-trail – again, so close, a great way to entertain the family visiting • from Gauteng.

• Spend a few nights on a houseboat somewhere – boats are FUN, and you can rent a houseboat on Vygeboom Dam, or some of the big dams in Swaziland.

•yourTakelife.a hot air balloon ride in the Lowveld. Not very original, but something to do once in an award-winning photograph somewhere in the Lowveld. We have arguably some •ofTake the world’s best photographic destinations, for wildlife at least, right here in the Lowveld. How hard can it be?

THE SA BUCKET LIST

Visit Sutherland in the Cape to see why it’s so cold.

• Take train trip to … anywhere. Blue Train preferably.

• Returna luxury • to the Richtersveld. Always need to top up my desert fix…

I was lucky enough to go there as a child, would love to stay in some of the new SANParks accommodation.

See the Sardine Run. One of the greatest movements of wild animals on the planet.

Dive with Great Whites. I’ve had two opportunities to do this, and have failed on both occasions. Third time lucky…

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THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

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Do an Amazon River expedition. Fish! Viewing, catching and eating them… Birds and wildlife galore too.

Kayak the Florida Everglades. Crystal clear waters and Manatees. Plus fish and birds.

See the Wildebeest migration in East Africa. One of Africa’s greatest spectacles.

Visit the Sahara. Probably not very easy or safe to do, but I’m sure it’s a place that could stir one’s soul.

Visit the Arctic while it still exists. Better bump this one up to number 1, now that Donald Trump is in control.

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Hilton Barnett is happiest to be defined as the father of two wonderful boys but when he is pretending to be more serious, he is a management consultant. He has spent the last 22 years travelling to far-flung places for work and the last two years he has added We Are White River to his life. This is currently his main focus and it is a hugely enriching experience.

THE LOWVELD BUCKET LIST

Hot air ballooning across the Lowveld.

• Walk • the Pafuri Walking Trail – a seriously remote and wild walking experience, in the Kruger National Park.

• Cycling in the Kruger.

THE SA BUCKET LIST

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Visit the Richtersveld – a mountainous desert landscape characterised by rugged kloofs and high mountains, situated in the north-western corner of South Africa’s Northern Cape province.

Go to Afrika Burn (gatecrashed it for a couple of hours two years ago on a bicycle trip, but want to do it properly).

Camping road trip with my wife.

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THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

the El Camino de Santiago.

• Walk Explore • Fly fishingThailand. in Patagonia, the southern • end of South America.

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Lisa Sheard is the Executive Director of Kruger Lowveld Chamber of Business and Tourism.

She wears a couple of other hats too, including being an owner of Misty Mountain Lodge, Long Tom Pass and she is passionate about tourism development and travel, as well as reading and geopolitics.

THE LOWVELD BUCKET LIST

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Follow the Sabie River from the source to Skukuza, on various modes of transport. From Misty Mountain (where the Sabie River happens to rise), to Hartebeesvlakte (maybe on a quad bike) across Hartebeesvlakte (on foot perhaps), down to Sabie (include a tube ride), through the Sabie Valley (maybe on a bicycle down to Hazyview, through the rural areas around Mkhuhlu (and on a taxi) and down to Skukuza (on an open vehicle safari). Finishing off, of course, at Skukuza for a cappuccino or a cold beer. One of my dreams…

Take a week or so to walk from Hoedspruit to White River, via Acornhoek, Bushbuckridge and Hazyview (about 150km) along the dirt tracks, through some conservation and wildlife areas, through tribal areas and stay along the way in homes of local people.

A night under the stars in a 5-star lodge in a private game lodge, perhaps a tree house. With the best food ever and a bottle of Moet!

A lunch at the Lowveld Botanical Gardens with a bunch of my closest friends, followed by a walk through the gardens. We will test ourselves to see the max of 850 tree species, 242 bird species, 53 reptile species and 43 mammal species – checklist very important and key to the experience.

Go on a progressive picnic through the Barberton Makonjwa Geotrail, stopping at every layby on the side of the road. Enjoy the view and spend some time understanding the interpretive information at each layby. Also eat a different course of the picnic meal at each layby. Include some good wine to match the food of course!

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THE SA BUCKET LIST

journey to see the wild flowers of Namaqualand in spring.

• AA self-drive canoe trip down the Orange River.

• A walking safari on the Otter Trail.

• A trip through Route • village of Greyton. 62 in the Western Cape followed by a weekend in the • A visit to Maropeng, the Cradle of Humankind followed by a weekend in Vilikazi Street, Soweto.

THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

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Rwanda to see the cleanest city in Africa (Kigali) and to experience a gorilla encounter.

• Visit the migration in the Serengeti.

• See Go on cruise through the Panama Canal.

• Watch aa boat game cricket at Eden Gardens, in Kolkata, India.

• Walk the Caminoof international de Santiago – a spiritual journey.

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River Rafting in Sabie River.

A hot air balloon ride across the Lowveld.

Visit the motor museum at Casterbridge.

A Safari on an open game vehicle through the Kruger Park.

2017 is the year I get out my hiking boots, find a hiking trail or two and go for it.

Meisie Nkosi

is an accomplished business personality and public speaker. She started selling boiled eggs at bus ranks and is today the Small Business Entrepreneur of the Year® award winner for 2016 awarded by Sanlam and BUSINESS/PARTNERS, thanks to the successful Bella Bonni Guest House she opened in 2006. A 4-star facility in Witbank, Meisie’s successful guest house and business plan beat contenders from across SA for the award.

THE SOUTH(ERN) AFRICA BUCKET LIST

Visit the spectacular Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

• a spin in a very fast car at the race Track in Kyalami.

• TakeExperience an adventure with elephants in Bela-Bela.

• in Cape Town in the big blue.

•IceFishing • skating – just need to find the rink.

THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

love to visit Venice in Italy and ride a gondola.

• I would To see shop up a storm.

• the Eiffel Tower inVisitParisLasandVegas.

Enough said.

• of Liberty in New York City.

• SeeI’dtheloveStatue to visit Singapore to learn more • about hospitality.

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A back-to-basics hike through Big Five territory with the Lowveld Trails Co. I want to •experience life in the African bush in its simplest form; no tents, no toilets and only the supplies you can carry on your back.

A picnic at the top of Mariepskop to witness southern Africa’s most northerly fynbos, the flora and fauna. Pack nibbles from Hoedspruit’s Fig & Bean, with some Musgrave Pink Gin from Safari Wine Club for cocktails, and you’ll feel like you’re in heaven.

Take a helicopter ride over Blyde River Canyon.

Go on patrol with the Black Mambas – a female only anti poaching unit.

Seek out the Lowveld’s art and artists; visit The Artists Press, The White River Gallery and the various galleries in Hoedspruit – and buy as much as of their art as I can.

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THE SOUTH(ERN) AFRICA BUCKET LIST

through the forests of Rwanda in search of gorillas.

• Trek Experience the life aquatic in the Okavango Delta in Botswana in my mokoro, gliding in near • silence just centimetres above the waterline through a wonderland of birds, fish, insects, reptiles and mammals.

Track desert wildlife in Namibia. Damaraland’s wild and open spaces are some of the few wilderness areas where life’s rhythm has remained relatively unchanged.

Drive from Cape to Cairo, taking time to explore.

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THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

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Eat my way around Tuscany in Italy in the Autumn. No directions, just spending hours and hours over meals.

See the northern lights from Denmark’s Faroe Islands after some ‘hygge’ time in Copenhagen.

Head for the highway on a great American road trip.

Explore La Reunion Island in as much detail as I can; food, culture, nature, beaches and an intriguing diversity of cultures born of its fascinating history.

Go home! For me that’s back to Zimbabwe; my home town of Bulawayo, Matopos granite hills, the wilds of Hwange, Matusadona and Mana Pools (my favourite), the magic of Lake Kariba, the majesty of Chimanimani and the diversity of Gonarezhou. Take comfort in all that is familiar even as you aspire to something new.

Dianne Tipping-Woods is a

Hoedspruit-based journalist who tells stories about people, conservation, travel and development in South and southern Africa. She’s constantly inspired by the people she meets and the wild and beautiful places she visits.

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Linda Grimbeek is the Chief Operating Officer at KLCBT. From Namibia, Linda and her fiance have lived on a beautiful farm near White River for the last 17 years with their 4-legged child, Teddie the Labrador. She is passionate about community service and helping people to help themselves especially businesses and young entrepreneurs.

THE LOWVELD BUCKET LIST

love to spend a couple of nights at a really exclusive game lodge.

• IAwould hot air trip or microlighting over the Sabie Valley or Kruger Park.

• Visit everyballoon single shop Rest when it is restored to its former glory again – •hopefully we will see thatindayPilgrim’s soon.

Be part of the restoration party the Nukain Mabuza Garden of Stone at Low’s Creek.

• My personal passion is to find theforofficial Lowveld – what will it be? That •something you simply have to eat when youdishareofin the the Lowveld.

THE SA BUCKET LIST

the entire coast.

• AGetroadlosttripin aaround little town on the Cape’s West Coast and live like a local.

• Eat at the top 10 restaurants.

• Learn to play an African musical instrument.

• Stay on the Drakensberg in a little hut with a good supply of good South African sherry.

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THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

Dubai but only if I somehow have millions to spend in a shopping spree.

• Visit • See the Northern lights – I think it something you go to see and are surprised to see there is so much more. like to spend two months travelling in Namibia. I lived there but was too busy to see •allIofwould it.

Take long boat cruise, perhaps discovering the shores of Africa and Middle East.

• Stay ona really a private (anywhere where there is sunshine, sea, good local produce and •good friends) – butisland no cannibals…

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The Lowveld Bucket List

A wilderness walking safari.

Spend the night at Shipandane Bird Hide near Mopani Camp in Kruger.

Do an EcoTraining course.

Attend Baroque in the Bush or Sunset Serenade in Kruger.

Have a meal at the Potluck Boskombuis near Graskop.

Liz Mackintosh

owns a business called The African Schoolroom, which creates tailor-made African adventure tours for schools and universities, mostly with a service component, and internship placements for student teachers and teachers from abroad needing practical experience or on sabbatical. She facilitates donor money earmarked for making a difference in disadvantaged communities and she is a member of the Rotary Club of White River.

“As I write this at the beginning of a New Year, and also the start of a new decade after a recent birthday, this was a perfect exercise to channel my random musings into words. To plagiarise Gandhi, ‘your thoughts become your words, your words become your actions...’ Bring it on!”

THE SA BUCKET LIST

THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

school course at Oxford University.

• DoBeacha summer in Thailand.

• Combineholiday a cooking • A road trip in Namibia.class and a barging holiday in France.

• A writing sabbatical in Switzerland.

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Photo Anthon Wessels

Whale Trail.

• The The Donkey Trail.

• See the flowers in Namaqualand.

• Yoga retreat somewhere tranquil and remote.

• Attend the Franschhoek Literary Festival again.

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Mel Tomlinson, business coach and owner of

Performance Booster, is a keen traveller. Her first love is positively affecting the lives of her clients through her work, but a very close second is travelling.

Her slo gan is ‘Take me anywhere, anytime, just take me.’

Prior to becoming a coach (one of her greatest Bucket List accomplishments), she was in the curio industry for 13 years and travelled South Africa extensively. During this time she was fortunate to stay at many luxury reserves and spent weeks in the Kruger Park, walked the Drakensberg and visited the Cape regularly. “I’d like to travel extensively with my husband, Cobus promoting our business internationally, starting with Australia. Life to me is about experiences and the most memorable trips were less about what I saw and more about who I was with and what we did that made us laugh.”

THE LOWVELD AND CLOSE SURROUNDS BUCKET LIST

Join the York Adventure club and begin hiking with them monthly. I love going to places not •usually open to the public .• Definitely have Chicken Dust in Kanyamazane – this has been on my bucket list for too long and it is on my doorstep. • Walk all the labyrinths in the Lowveld. to Maputo just for a day, then catch a tuk-tuk to all the markets, eat peri-peri • Take a buschicken and seafood and return. • Get featured in the Lowveld Living Magazine.

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THE SOUTH(ERN) AFRICA BUCKET LIST

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See the Namaqualand flowers with my husband. Swim with the dolphins in Mozambique. Do the Wild Coast walk and spend time at Hole in the Wall.

Visit Morocco to photograph the beautiful architecture and rich patterns.

Hot air balloon over Okavango Delta.

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THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

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Visit Vietnam this year.

• Stay in the Ice Hotel and see the northern lights for

my 50th in 2018. Kill two birds with one stone: branch our business out to Australia whilst visiting some great friends. Visit Machu Picchu in Peru and then the beautiful beaches of Puerto Rico to visit a childhood friend. Sit at the kitchen table with my friend in England and laugh like old times.

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Melanie Reeder is a published writer, editor, academic lecturer, and

restaurant owner with her partner, chef Jason Powell.

She’s written for most major South African newspapers and magazines over a 15-year career, and although she admits to being a nomad, has lived in Nelspruit the longest out of any place in the world (much to her surprise).

THE LOWVELD BUCKET LIST

Despite many trips to the Bushveld, I have never seen cheetah in the wild. It’s honestly something I desperately hope for •every time. I suspect they are my spirit animal or something and are purposefully obscuring themselves from me! • I went ‘caving’ in Swaziland for a travel magazine story once. It was terrifying, but quite profound to be in the deep and ancient spaces of the earth, where so few people venture. I’ve always thought the Lowveld rocks would be equally memorable to journey into. I’d love to do a road trip through the Lowveld with a historian. I’m fascinated by all the tales of gold-mining ghost towns. I would like to see our local book festival and other literacy initiatives grow and reach those who need it most. In addition to teaching, I would love to start up an empowerment project focusing on the critical need for increased literacy.

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THE SA BUCKET LIST

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I grew up in the old homeland state of Transkei, and I have not been back to the Wild Coast in 15 years. I long to return to the lush Dwesa and Hluleka Nature Reserves, or Lusikisiki, and to show my children where I spent my childhood, and regale them with the same local myths that remain with me as an adult. I’ve never travelled the West Coast up past Cape Town, so that’s a definite one day. I dive, but have never seen turtles or whale shark. That would make me very happy to see. I want to take my children (when they’re a little older) to the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown for the abundance of children’s theatre, street art, dance and other workshops for kids in and around the town.

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THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

I hope to attend a lecture by an acclaimed author and academic I admire one day; •perhaps Toni Morrison, or Margaret Attwood. JM Coetzee is also on the list but I have little hope of that ever happening considering his reclusiveness. • My partner and I have a shared love of food and wine, and we would love to plot a culinary trip, perhaps through France, Italy and North Africa, and not only sample local food but visit the agricultural origins of some of it too. I lived in Colorado for a while, and would love to go back both in the summer and the winter. It’s a magnificent place. I skied a lot living there and I miss weekends in the mountains with the thrill of hitting the slopes, with John Denver playing in my head no doubt!

There are some incredible writer’s fellowships across the globe. When my children are a little older I am going to apply to every single one of them until I get one! Writing in solitude in the French countryside sounds pretty close to heaven for me.

•

Photo Anthon Wessels

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go

The Lowveld Bucket List

Paragliding in Barberton Hot air ballooning to see the Lowveld Spend a week at Singita Lodge Kruger Wilderness Trail explore the Kruger on foot Paddle the Croc River Marathon

Frans Louw

For the past five years Frans and his wife Shan have successfully built up the ShowMe Nelspruit community website which they recently sold and now look forward to new adventures as a farmer. “Growing up, most of our family holidays were spent touring in Southern Africa, which instilled a sense of adventure and a love for the bush in me from a very young age.”

THE AFRICA BUCKET LIST

this one should be • Masai Mara – I would love to go see theformigration, anyone who loves the bush.

Barbel Run – with thousands of barbel migrating up stream, • Okavango the action attracts the Tiger fish making for some exceptional fishing.

Kilimanjaro – the top of Africa.

• operators.

• Okavango Delta Photography Safari with any ofDivethethegoodSardine Run. •

THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

•

Dive at Sulawezi in Indonesia.

• Sail around the world – love sailing and would enjoy sailing

•

around the world when I get enough time one day.

See the snow leopard in the Himalayan Mountains.

Catch a brown trout in New Zealand and explore what seems to be a fascinating country.

Help my wife tick off her bucket list.

•

•

go

Dave Walters is a radio person, radio advertising copy-writer, unicyclist, juggler and mediocre bagpiper.

THE LOWVELD BUCKET LIST

National Park – it is rare for a destination to live up to its hype – this one does, in spades.

• Kruger Sudwala Caves. I may be biased, being one of only three people who (to the best of my knowledge) can claim to have played the • bagpipes in the P. R. Owen Hall, but still, it’s awesome. I haven’t mustered up the wherewithal to do the Crystal Tour yet. One day.

• SkyWay Trails. Foefie-sliding through one of the last remaining natural forested valleys along the Sabie River? I’m sorry to sound like a brochure here, but this is some of the best fun you can have in the Lowveld, with your clothes on.

Bourke’s Luck Potholes is another destination that just leaps off the postcards and punches you in the face. Interesting story, •fascinating geography, well worth the entrance fee.

My house. And no, this isn’t an invitation, it’s simply a testament to the lifestyle we have in the Lowveld and the reason why I • packed-up life in Joyburg (no typo) and moved here at the first opportunity. This place rocks.

THE SA BUCKET LIST

Train/Rovos Rail. I’ve always loved travelling by train, and doing one of the classic, luxury trips would be wonderful.

• Blue Drive the Karoo on a summer night with the top down and Sinatra on the stereo. Just because.

• Run thethrough Comrades. used to be into road running many moons ago, and while I can’t even get my mascara to run now, the idea of •doing a Comrades hasI never quite gone away completely. Currently I’m stuck at the most difficult part of the training cycle, getting from the couch to the front door.

The Namaqualand Flowers. Just to walk around this annual explosion of colour should be a holiday well spent.

Knysna Elephants. Go hang out in the Knysna forest and see if you bump into one of the elephants, by accident.

• •

THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

‘The Nose’ of El Cap. With my climbing days behind me, this one will probably stay on the list, but hey, who knows?

• Climbing Northern Lights. I’ve wanted to see them for the longest time. Beloved and I are looking at a trip that includes a night or two in an • Ice Hotel as well.

• Monaco GP. Famously described by Nelson Piquet as “riding a bicycle around your living room”, Monaco isn’t the average petrol head’s first choice as an F1 race to go watch, but the whole ‘event’ part of it fascinates me.

Berlin City Marathon. I love watching the big city marathons, and they don’t come much bigger than Berlin. I believe we will still see •a sub-2hr marathon time in our lifetimes, and it will be in Berlin. Wouldn’t it be kewl to be there for that?

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Easily the most prestigious gathering of pipers in the world, and while I’d love to play at one of • them, realistically speaking I’ll be happy just to go watch.

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I wish for...

Tracey Golitz has been living in White River since 1988 and has always been

self-employed in the hospitality industry.She met her husband Olaf here and they have two daughters. ”We bought Da Loose Mongoose Country Restaurant and are both focused on this new challenge with lots of exciting ideas up our sleeves.”

• • • • •

More cautious and respectful drivers.

More respect and pride for our environment - less litter.

More hospitable, friendlier and caring service providers.

More incentives for job training and skills development in the hospitality & retail sector.

Better local networking amongst business owners.

I hope For accountability and responsibility across the board.

To strive for better efficiency in all sectors.

For an emphasis on trades needed – internships and on the job training.

To say NO to corruption and wrongdoing.

We can respect our cultures and uphold our traditions.

I want: To learn from mistakes already made and not repeat them over and over again.

To save and respect all our resources.

Less violence and corruption – more peace.

Leaders with accountability and responsibility.

To put an emphasis on our youth and their future.

THE SA BUCKET LIST

• • • • •

THE WORLD BUCKET LIST

• • • • •

We know...

Some of your Bucket list items Might be daring.

Traveling should not be.

Travel safely with Limetime shuttle

www.limetimeshuttle.co.za 086 999 0978

off the beaten TRAC

of woodsmoke

&

whisky

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The African Crowned Eagle soared high above us, outlined against the vapour streaked pale winter sky. It dipped and rose, seemingly unperturbed by the three crows escorting it away from their domain in loud caws and aggressive flying. The wind had picked up around the Steenkampsberg plateau and the climb to the upper escarpment resumed, the path flanked by Guinea Fowl Aloe, the daisy family’s Bride’s Bouquet and mountain streams coursing between veld grasses and jackal spoor. Burchell’s Zebra, Red Hartebeest and Blesbok stood their ground and watched as we traversed their wilderness trail in this subalpine climate and we stood at the lookout point, drinking in the majesty of the valley and way below, the charming homestead of Walkersons Hotel and Spa sat serenely, awaiting our arrival Words Lynn Haken No 61 |

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off the beaten TRAC

Walkersons

has been in the area for a long time. Originally a working pine farm and then a cattle farm, the hotel once owned by the Walker family was created with a Scottish country manor feel which continues to this day in an elegant timelessness. Natural stone, small recesses housing family antiques, mood lighting and Rob Roy tartan-kilted staff in the evenings welcome one to sit by one of the roaring fireplaces, a rug casually thrown and all that’s missing is a large, lugubrious dog and the Laird himself to join you for a wee dram. The current owners, Geoff Engel and Dandre Lerm Engel, have wisely kept the previous traditions of this small, friendly country hotel that have made it so comfortable in the past to remain so in the present, yet have refurbished it to modern, unobtrusive standards.

The large beautifully furnished cottage-rooms, housing an enormous bed with meringue-nest thick duvets and down pillows also have a self-contained kitchenette offering complimentary coffee/tea and home-made cookies.

A fridge keeps soft drinks, wines, beers and milk at nominal mini-bar prices. Each room faces a dam – 14 in all and stocked with catch-and-release trout, and are surrounded by wild flowers and reeds, with reed cormorants, Egyptian geese and red bishop birds protecting their water habitats. Our balcony, with the late afternoon sun warming us, enabled a splendid view of a particularly well-groomed Cape Weaver, washing and preening his lovely green feathers, his bright white eye in his soft orange face staring at us whilst his rather insipid wife glared balefully at his obvious flirting in front of an audience. Back inside the room, the fireplace had been lit due to a chilly cold front and a warm comfy sofa, with thick high backed cushions, was the ideal space to sip sherry, watching the flames dance their rhythmic seduction.

The bathrooms are well appointed; one housing the showers and lavatory with luxurious underfloor heating and the other with an enormous oval bath and heated towel rails. Most meals are taken in the main dining room, although a light menu is also served on the terrace. Old hunting prints and Tudor tapestries adorn the walls. Silverware, Cape Regency furniture (circa 1830), bow-tie chairs made from Stinkwood, and carvers have been retained and some older furniture has been faithfully reproduced to keep the ambience. Breakfasts are served with a selection of fresh fruits and yoghurt and then the offering of the usual fare, beautifully cooked with pure, farm butter and sprigged with homegrown herbs, alongside a more diverse selection of kippers poached in whisky served with mushroom and Hollandaise

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sauce or Eggs Benedict with either smoked salmon or Parma ham. Dinners are a five-course affair paired with a selection of Diner’s Club Silver Award winning fine wines from their cellar; every evening a different menu being created by chefs who obviously enjoy their creative freedom and serve home-made miniature warmed bread loaves as accompaniments to rich stock soups, fresh trout, tianes of seasonable vegetables, roasted quail, apple braised pork and pillows of soft sorbets to cleanse the palates before leaving space for delicate desserts of home-made ice-creams, mint panacotta and rich chocolate fudge slices, all beautifully presented with a flourish of fruit garnishes. A selection of cheese and biscuits are offered and a post-prandial port may be enjoyed at Peggy’s Bar, where a portrait of the beautiful Mrs de Villiers hangs. There is no real knowledge of who she was but her never aging beauty watches non-judgmentally through time.

Walkersons offers relaxation for both those who enjoy exercise and those who don’t. There are many walking trails, some more arduous than others, and bicycles are also available for hire. A fully equipped gymnasium is on site for those wishing to raise yet a few more heartbeats, and for a quieter pursuit, catch-and-release-fishing is available, for which a permit is required from reception. A quiet afternoon drive to the highest town in South Africa – Dullstroom – also offers visitors the opportunity to view the many curio shops, sample the local fare or just meander through the old Dutch colonial history.

And for those who prefer a more supine relaxation, the Amani Spa offers all treatments from foot massages to full body aromatherapies. The mood in the spa is soft and comfortable where a selection of complimentary refreshments is also offered. The products are BABOR and the aromatherapy balms are made from either a lavender base, for a relaxing massage or a peppermint/black pepper unguent for revitalisation, utilised by the gentle ministrations of the well trained therapist and accompanied by the soft, lilting sounds of Irish ballads which lull one into an altered state.

Walkersons is luxurious yet not ostentatious. It is comfortable yet not lazy. The staff are attentive, convivial but above all… happy. As a footnote, I had unknowingly lost a valuable piece of jewellery which was then picked up by a staff member and handed in. This was returned to me, resulting in gratitude from both parties – me, for not only was it valuable but held sentiment and Walkersons, because it was returned to its original owner. There are no words.

INFO Walkersons Hotel and Spa, 013 253 7000, reservations@walkersons.co.za, www.walkersons.co.za

brought to you by

off the beaten TRAC

off the beaten TRAC The N4

Toll Route, linking Gauteng via Mpumalanga with Swaziland and Maputo in Mozambique, is the highway that leads to some of the most scenic and popular destinations in South Africa.

Trailing the Northern Highveld (north of the N4), the Southern Highveld (south of the N4) and Lakes District, the Drakensberg Escarpment, Lowveld and Kruger National Park, the N4 Toll Route opens a wealth of things to see. These include cultural and historical heritage sites, an abundance of wild life including the big five, amazing bird life, fresh water lakes and pans, the natural wonders of mountain ranges and activities from the ordinary to the extreme, before meandering to the Indian Ocean.

Lesser known stop-overs in Mpumalanga Kaapsehoop: Discover a place where wild horses roam and where attempts are being made to conserve the blue swallow, a critically endangered species. Visit Adams Calendar, believed to be the oldest man-made structure on earth.

Balmoral: Close to the N4, east of Bronkhorstspruit, this memorial and cemetery commemorates the Balmoral concentration camp where women and children were interned by the British during the South African War (1899-1902).

Botshabelo: Botshabelo means “place of refuge” and was established as a mission station in 1864. Today this is a living museum for Ndebele architecture.

Fort Merensky: A Mpumalanga Provincial Heritage Site, the Fort was built in 1878 by the Berlin missionaries and expertly restored by the Simon van der Stel Foundation in 1965.

Lakes District: Mpumalanga’s Lake District has 320 freshwater lakes and pans that support 220 species of birds of which 17 are endemic and 16 are threatened species.

Eland Valley: The second section of the N4 toll road to Mbombela runs through the Eland Valley, cutting through the Drakensburg with breathtaking sights from the NZASM tunnel in the west to Montrose Falls where it links up with the Schoemanskloof section of the N4. The Eland Valley Conservancy that runs for 60 km along the Eland River features the spectacular Lindanau Falls, and the Rocky Drift Nature Reserve.

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brought to you by

LIVE PUBLISHED MEMOIRS OF A LOWVELDER A YOUNG & RISING STAR IN THE SCULPTURE WORLD

live

the written word

A poignant and moving memoir, Brave Lotus Flower Rides the Dragon, is author Tracy Todd’s portrayal of learning to live again after a car accident left her quadriplegic 19 years ago. Her tale of tragedy, courage, grit – and strength of spirit – stays with you long after you have turned the last page Words Annelle Whyte Photos Cathy Prettejohn

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live

Todd recounts

her unimaginable journey with frank, sometimes startling, honesty, prompting a sense of ever-mindful gratitude. Her determination to lead a fulfilling life is evident throughout, woven into her spiritual journey to acceptance and faith in humanity, and experiences of love, heartbreak and back to love again. Like her writing, Todd is warm, open and candid when we meet to talk about the highs and lows of writing, and getting the book published.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WRITE THE BOOK? The seed was sown when people who attended my motivational talks began asking whether I had a book. A very stop start affair, taking nearly 15 years to complete, writing provided an outlet – and helped towards my healing.

In the early days, a friend wrote on my behalf, but I felt restrained from speaking freely. This motivated me to turn my attention to my computer with special voice activated software that had spent many months gathering dust.

“Training” the software to recognise my voice was an arduous process and my tenacity paid off, once mastered, I was liberated – not only to write but also immerse myself into social communities online, express myself via my blog and interact with others.

Taking part in the world online was a positive wave, conquering boredom, prompting me to enrol in an online writing course and giving me confidence to get out and about in the bricks and mortar, flesh world!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PASSAGE TO BEING PUBLISHED? I received many rejection letters from publishers around the country and began to think there was no appetite for a story of my kind. The feedback was nonspecific which I interpreted as being about “rands and cents” – how much money the book would make.

Tracey McDonald Publishers supported me in creating a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds and get published.

Using a platform called Thundafund people invest into projects they believe are worth it - within two weeks we had the money we needed to move ahead!

to feel like a piece of flesh.

Dedicated to my son, I hope that his inspiring me to write has in turn encouraged him to always believe in himself, follow his dreams and finish what he starts. Support from the community and those who follow my blog – people (not only disabled) I have touched – galvanised me further.

ABOUT THE TITLE, BRAVE LOTUS FLOWER RIDES THE DRAGON? The title is an analogy for living with paralysis from the neck down. My road to acceptance continues: I’ve tamed the dragon to go on living a meaningful and happy life, although I haven’t slain it. I have to be brave not only for myself, but also for those in my life.

My story, like writing the book, has inconceivable lows and glimmering highs; a chronicle of incremental healing and beating depression. When I dream I am always running, jumping, swimming – I’m never in a wheelchair – and always hold hope that somehow this may be again.

YOU’RE RECENTLY MARRIED, A FAIRY TALE EVENT, WE’RE CURIOUS TO HEAR ABOUT IT? Not long before meeting my husband Roy, my heart was indelibly broken by a con artist extraordinaire, and many questioned how I have been able to trust again. Trust... I have to! Being so physically dependant leaves me no choice.

Marrying Roy is a serendipitous full circle. Signing, with thumbprint, my divorce papers was a stand out low of abandonment and then thumbprint signing my marriage certificate, which was one of the happiest days of my life.

Being published has come at the right time, the book was never really finished until I met Roy! Our wedding planner, and friend, said at our big day shared with everyone from this special Lowveld community “Tracy, you have an unbelievable way of bringing people together” which added to my already beaming smile and love brimming heart.

WHAT ARE WE IN FOR, WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU? I am working on a novel: a romance, set locally that dispels “the disability myth” and addresses perceptions of being disabled. I look forward to letting my mind run in developing characters without having to consider the real life role players included, or not included, in my memoir.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU AND HOW DO YOU FEEL HAVING I am not so different: my disabilities are outside, many others ACHIEVED THIS TRIUMPH? I feel tremendously proud! have them inside. This could happen to anyone at any time.

Writing my memoir forced me to revisit things in my life, especially the hurts, and I’m delighted to have made it this Todd’s memoir launches 23 February 2017 at 6pm with a book far. I needed to feel worthy, to have a purpose, it’s easy just signing at Exclusive Books, Riverside Mall, Nelspruit.

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live

homegrown Words Nicky Manson Photos Anthon Wessells, Francois van Zyl

talent

When

Robert Rorich left Uplands College in 2013, he gifted the school a statue that he had sculpted in his matric year. Now, three years later, this sculpture of two boys doing a handstand, stands proudly in the centre of the school’s fountain and is an artistic focal point of the grounds. And the artist himself?

Robert now calls the Cape home but visits his hometown regularly.

“The biggest highlight of my sculpting to date has absolutely been making the big sculpture for the school in 2013. I loved making something so big and I really want to make all of the sculptures (essentially maquettes) that I make now so much bigger!”

Robert grew up in White River with an older sister, Michelle, and parents Charl and Veronica. He was schooled first at Uplands Prep and then moved to the College.

“I really enjoyed the sport at school, playing a lot of tennis and hockey. I’ve also always enjoyed running and cycling. I am very grateful to have grown up in the small town of White River – so close to the bush and surrounded by the wild mountains, endless plantations, rivers and dams.”

After school Robert moved to Cape Town to study Mechanical Engineering. He completed the first two years in 2014/15 but took a break from his studies last year to focus entirely on art and sculpting. He plans to return to Electro-Mechanical Engineering this year.

“I suppose that I’ve always been creative. Since I was small I have always liked to paint and draw. When I was about 10 the walls in my room were covered in drawings that I had done (almost entirely of Dragonball Z characters),” he laughs. “In primary school I spent most of my hours either playing in the garden or building things with Lego or Bionicle (which was slightly more complex Lego pieces used to make human forms). So I suppose this was a very good base for sculpture making and also realising a deep love of the outdoors and nature.”

Robert also credits his grandmother for his love and appreciation of art. “My mother’s mom was into art and we grew up learning about famous artists and seeing many of the pieces with her. My mother would occasionally draw and paint with us as children but neither of my parents is really ‘arty ‘. Having said that, I think as a child (or adult) when you do something for the first time you either want to do it again or you

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live don’t. Drawing, painting, building and creating have always just been things that I’ve wanted to do again and again.”

Robert’s passion for sculpting grew when he dabbled in modelling clay in an art class in high school and loved it.

“Jennifer Schuam was our teacher and she was wonderful in giving us the opportunity to really explore different art forms and mediums. When we were in grade 11 (2012) she did sculpture making with us, and we got our sculptures cast at Bronze Art Africa. I absolutely loved the modelling clay that we used and immediately fell in love with making clay sculptures. An entire new world was opened to me and I’m very happy to be living right inside that world right now.”

Robert’s eye for form was immediately recognised by his teacher and his family but in today’s world, life as an artist is not always a smooth path and so Robert chose to study first after school. Even now, he is not sure of his future and prefers to live in the moment, ”I only really thought about making a career in sculpture after leaving school. I still don’t know if I will pursue it as my career – I have some more studying to do first as I’m keen to get my degree. I think that I will always make sculptures and art and if it turns into the only thing that I do I suppose that then it would be considered my career, but I don’t necessarily plan for that at the moment.”

He has other goals too. Some more frivolous ones like spending a few years adventuring around the world (mostly by bike). Most certainly a bucket list moment although one

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Robert will probably complete a lot sooner than most of us!

He is also keen to get involved in the creation of products and the advancement of technology that will help build a sustainable future for SA. This is where his degree may come in handy. “Random examples would be getting involved in things like creating clean energy, and developing machines to clean and protect the environment,” he explains. “If making sculptures turns out to be a sustainable income for me I will probably fund my research for the above projects by spending a few months a year manically making sculptures. But if it doesn’t I don’t think I’ll be too worried as it’s a passion that I’ll never lose.”

When Robert is not busy sculpting, you will usually find him somewhere on the mountain. His landscape may have changed but his love for the outdoors has never diminished. “Living right at the foot of Table Mountain has been amazing and I love riding and running on the unlimited routes there. Cape Town also has the most unbelievable waves to surf.”

But don’t be fooled – this exercise thing is no simple fad for Robert. He is an acomplished athlete, having competed in a number of races including the Cape Epic and African Otter Trail Run. So the man is multi talented but don’t dislike him too much because the truth is he is terribly down to earth and ridiculously humble. He has a passion and is following it (while doing a few things on the side too) and at such a young age, it’s an admirable journey.

“AN ENTIRE NEW WORLD WAS OPENED TO ME AND I’M VERY HAPPY TO BE “DRAWING, PAINTING, BUILDING AND CREATING LIVING INSIDE THAT WORLD HAVE ALWAYS JUST BEEN THINGS THAT RIGHT I’VE NOW” WANTED TO DO AGAIN AND AGAIN.”

FOR THOSE NOT IN THE KNOW, WE ASKED ROBERT TO ELABORATE ON THE PROCESS OF HIS SCULPTING. Before making any sculpture I conceptualise exactly what I want the outcome to be. So I’ll sit down somewhere quiet (and positive) and think what I would love to make. Then I usually get photos (from the Internet or ones I’ve taken myself ) and draw what the sculpture will be – basically these are always human and animal figures.

After drawing, being really mindful of what I’m drawing and analysing the shapes and lines of the images, I’ll make an armature, which is a wooden base and wire ‘skeleton’.

Then I basically pack the clay on and make the sculpture. After finishing a sculpture, a bronzing foundry will cast it in bronze. Making the sculpture doesn’t ever really take more than a few days but the bronzing process takes a few months and is an expensive process, which is why my new collection is made up of considerably smaller pieces than previously.

Opposite Page: Back where it all started, Robert sits under his shark creation in his Uplands art class.

Above: Fish and Fisherman in clay.

Below: Rhino and Children in clay; right: Bow Pose in clay.

SPACES Sleeping under the stars in the Bushveld A new start in the Lowveld

spaces

sleeping

ou rv el t racket bu ist l

under the stars

Words Mareike Pietzsch, Jenman African Safaris; Nicky Manson Photos Jenman African Safari

Our top African sleep-out decks & tree houses. Tourists travel to Africa to immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of the African bush. And nothing gets you closer to this than spending a night of slumber on one of the continent’s outdoor decks or tree houses under the stars. The chance to hear a lion roar or a hippo munch away just metres from your place of rest is a thrilling experience that anyone who has the chance (and balls) should take

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spaces

Lions Sands, Sabi Sabi, South Africa

Lion Sands is in the world-famous Sabi Sabi reserve in South Africa, with three incredible tree houses with open decks, each with their own design and perks.

There is Kingston Tree House, Chalkley Treehouse, and Tinyeleti Treehouse. All of these offer world class 5-star luxury, where guests are treated to dinner and drinks atop their deck of choice for the night.

Baines Camp, Okavango Delta, Botswana

Built in one of the lushest areas of the Okavango Delta on a private concession, Baines Camp is a stunning lodge built on high raised platforms above the Boro River. The camp has five luxury suites each with large private viewing decks.

Guests are encouraged to wheel their four-poster bed out onto the deck, which also features an outside bath, fittingly named “star baths�, allowing guests to enjoy an opulent soak surrounded by nature.

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Kanana, Okavango Delta, Botswana

Constructed over two levels, the sleepout deck at Kanana on the Xudum River in the South West region of the Okavango is the ideal choice for birdwatchers with an adventurous side.

Just 20 minutes from the main camp, the deck peers onto a waterhole known for its fantastic birding. After dinner at the main camp, guests are escorted to their treehouse to enjoy a starlit night. A plus for those a bit wary about spending a night alone in the African bush is that a Kanana guide is stationed a short distance away for protection.

Kulala Desert Lodge, Sossusvlei Desert, Namibia

Kulala Desert Lodge is one of Namibia’s most well-loved lodges.

Set amidst the giant red dunes that this desert nation is so revered for, this lodge also offers rooftop sleepout decks on the chalet roofs . The lodge has a total of 23 chalets named ‘kalulas’ which means ‘to sleep’ in Oshinwabo. For those looking to explore the incredible beauty of Sossusvlei, this lodge is the ideal choice as it is the closest point of access to the iconic dunes.

Tswalu’s Malori, South Africa

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Situated in the Kalahari Desert in South Africa’s Northern Cape, Tswalu Game Reserve offers one of the most picturesque outdoor decks on the continent. Named the Malori (that means ‘dreamer’ in Tswana) the sleep-out deck does not compromise on luxury. The bed is dressed with gorgeous Aldona linen, and extra robes and slippers are provided in case it gets a bit nippy. The deck comes with a basin, an outdoor toilet and a shower.

Ruckomechi Camp, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

Ruckomechi Camp in the Mana Pools National Park in Northern Zimbabwe has a renowned sleepout deck known for its incredible animal sightings. The deck overlooks Parachute Pan, which is frequented by lion, leopard and wild dog. You can expect a thrilling night ahead of you.

It is the ideal setting to fall asleep to the sound of the African wild as you gaze at uninterrupted views of the night sky.

Elephant’s Eye, Zimbabwe

Elephant’s Eye is a small eco-retreat located on a private concession bordering Zimbabwe’s most famous game reserve, Hwange National Park. Aptly named The Eye, it offers all the creature comforts of the main lodge, and it situated overlooking a busy waterhole. Guests are escorted from the main lodge at dusk to spend a magical night under the Milky Way.

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Rhino Post Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa Kruger National Park’s Rhino Post Safari Lodge offers several treehouses within walking distance of the camp itself.

Guests can take a quick stroll to the raised sleeping platforms in the afternoon to enjoy a delicious braai and sundowners by a beautiful waterhole. With unparalleled views of Kruger and the chance to immerse yourself in the African bush, this is a mustdo for those wanting a unique experience.

Loisaba Game Reserve, Kenya

Looking to spend a night under the stars in East Africa? Look no further than Loisaba Game Reserve in Kenya. This reserve first pioneered the idea of sleeping in luxury under the night skies, and to this day, the Liosaba decks are one of the most exquisite on the continent. The reserve has three separate decks, each with their own handcrafted poster beds and brass fitted bathrooms.

The star beds look onto the Kiboko Waterhole, which is home to a resident hippo family and is frequented by lots of game.

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Pezulu Tree Houses, Limpopo, South Africa

Pezula is a small, exclusive treehouse game lodge situated in a private game reserve in the Limpopo province of South Africa. The lodge comprises of 10 unique treehouses, accommodating a maximum of 30 guests. Each unit has been built to blend with the environment whilst maintaining an element of luxury. The units have been built around the trees, resulting in huge branches which are still growing, passing through the tree houses.

Kalahari Plains Camp, Kalahari Game Reserve, Botswana

Seated on a five million-hectare desert reserve with an abundance of wildlife, the Kalahari Plains Camp is one of Botswana’s most spectacular camps. Each of the lodge’s 10 chalets is equipped with stylish decks on the roof where you can relax and snooze under the beauty of the Botswanan sky.

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a new home a newlife

So much more than just a house, this bold private home in Nelspruit represents a fresh start for owner Marianna van Wyk as she creates a new life on her terms...

Words Dianne Tipping-Woods Photos Anthon Wessels

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This house

situated on a lofty stand in The Rest in Nelspruit, is part sanctuary and part adventure for owner Marianna van Wyk. “When you are older, people get these broekie lace ideas in their heads, but I wanted a house I could flourish in,” explains the vivacious 66 year old.

Moving to Nelspruit from Centurion in Gauteng, the nurse turned landscape designer was leaving behind a long career in the Defense Force, an ex-husband and all her preconceptions of what a house – and a life – should look like. “When I first met architect Klippie du Toit from EarthSwitch Architects, I thought ‘he’s so young!’ It soon became apparent though that there was a wonderful synergy between his vision and hers and now, “this modern house fits me perfectly,” notes Marianna.

Her initial turmoil was linked to her decision to invest almost everything she had in the property, so there was no room for later regret. On Klippie’s advice, she wrote a wish list of the things she wanted. “I wanted plenty of glass so I never have to turn on a light during the day. I wanted a high ceiling so I have a feeling of space around me. I wanted to sit in the bath and be able to see and hear the birds. I wanted a roof to garden. I wanted a sky light so I could see the clouds and the stars. I wanted detail, beauty, class…”

spaces

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The result is a manifestation of Marianna. It’s a home infused with her character, reflecting her interests and channeling her creativity. The house is 265m2, with two bedrooms with full en-suite bathrooms, a guest bathroom, an open plan living area including kitchen and separate scullery, a study/studio space, a loft, double garage and three covered exterior patios. Talking about it, her enthusiasm is contagious. Every detail is cherished and celebrated as an act of emancipation and an exploration of herself, her hopes and her dreams for this next phase in her life.

“Look at this staircase, built like a sculpture. I have a piece of art now instead of just some old concrete stairs,” she says, showing off the beautifully designed access to her roof garden. “And the western wall. It’s a rammed earth masterpiece. It may be the most beautiful part of the house. I still want to make a little space here to sit and enjoy it.”

The multi-level garden gives her particular joy. She designed the paving work and landscaping herself and has big plans for the beautiful beds she has created, with small garden courtyards between the rooms and a large garden space above the double garage because, “in this climate, everything just grows!”.

The inside of the house also delights. Most of the rooms get natural light from at least two sides. In the bathrooms, the boxes under the sink are on wheels and the various seating slabs dotted around the house hover over the glistening floors. The roof has been lifted to accommodate clear story windows at wall-plate level, and to create a seemingly floating roof from certain angles. These elements are complemented by plenty of grounding woodwork, and the clay bricks from the entrance, which are repeated throughout – adding warmth to the coolness and some earth to the sky.

Balance is an important principal throughout the house and in

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Marianna’s life. For the house, it’s created through the materials, the lines of the buildings, the light grey palette and the mix of old and new in the furnishings. Decorated by Marianna with input from Klippie, there are a surprising number of sentimental pieces that have been transformed to fit within the modern space. “Klippie had to design a wall especially to accommodate my old stinkwood cupboards,” explains Marianna. The piece that didn’t fit was repurposed as a TV stand. The little stove on the stoep has travelled with her for more than 40 years and the Tamboti furniture on the stoep used to belong to her mom.

Near the kitchen, two more recent acquisitions add meaningful detail to the home. Prints by Congolese artist Maludi depict scenes from the Democratic Republic of Congo where Marianna spent a transitional year.

It’s significant that she hangs them in what she calls “the heart of the house.” Marianna loves to cook and have guests over. The custom-designed ‘packman’ table is a clever extension to the kitchen counter and serves as an elegant dining area without taking up too much space.

The house is also extremely low maintenance, practical and very secure, despite the ‘openness’ of the design. It features bio-climatic design principles, such as orientation and window placement, to allow for natural cooling and heating, and natural ventilation. Corrugated water tanks supply toilets with flush-water and one tank supplies water to the garden.

“Everyone who comes to my home notes how different it is, despite adhering to the barn-style architectural guidelines on The Rest Estate,” says Marianna. It has an incredible energy to it, with the promise of both comfort and surprise. Speaking to Marianna, it’s clear that building this house has been life-changing. “I am Marianna. I am my own person. And this is my house.”

spaces

The rammed walls, roof garden and multi-layered garden beds are all favourite features

Marianna’s little black book The Architect

Earthswitch Architects,

Klippie du Toit, www.earthswitch.co.za

The Contractor

Vantee Construction,

Andries Van Biljon, 072 470 5928

The Kitchen contractor Chris Bam Designs Timber deck & loft Havwoods (Pty) Ltd Timber stairs/ balustrades Duratrend Alu Windos and Doors AluCAD

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the observation deck

in...spirational Words Lynn Haken

In 2007

, Rob Reiner made a film, The Bucket List, starring Jack Nicolson and Morgan Freeman, about two terminally ill patients who decide to escape from a cancer ward and head off on a road trip with a wish list of things they wanted to do whilst they were physically capable. A letter is written in the film from the one friend to the other, “Our lives are streams flowing into the same river towards whatever heaven lies in the mist beyond the falls. Find the joy in your life. Close your eyes and let the waters take you home.” Although the subject is poignant, the film was ‘seriocomic’ and created many discussions resulting in people making up their own lists and endeavouring to create their own experiences, be it vocational, spiritual or physical. The most common travel ones seem to be somewhat adventure based: visiting either Machu Picchu or Antarctica, go to Everest base camp, climb Mount Kilimanjaro, or run with the bulls at the San Fermin Festival in Pamploma, and that old chestnut… streak at Lords. Yawn. Then there’s skydiving, swimming with dolphins, shark cage-diving, etc., all of those actually being attainable if you can afford it and are in reasonable physical shape.

Then you’ve got those unrealistic quests, but still attainable, if you’ve lost your mind: Climb Mount Everest, or why stop there? Climb the five tallest mountains in the world. Without oxygen.

Base jump from Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, and bear in mind from whose arms you have just leaped.

In Thailand, visit Chiang Mai and spend the day interacting with tigers, and have your picture taken lying on one and why stop there? Pop your head in one’s mouth. That’s a picture worth taking. You can take a selfie for the BEFORE… and get someone else to take a picture AFTER.

• • •

And then there are some bizarre Bucket Lists (as if the above aren’t): Get arrested.

Eat a live scorpion and smile for the camera. Or a dead one. But keep smiling.

Go to Thailand for their nationwide water fight called Songkran. The entire country has a water fight on a given day! Why? Because they can.

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• Have a food fight at the La Tomatina festival in Bunol

Valencia in Spain where you’ll get pelted with tomatoes.

Why? Because they are Spanish and know how to have fun. Just think of those bull runs!

Visit your very own deserted island. In the Kingdom of Tonga you can hire a boat for under R1000, which will take you to any one of selected desert islands for the day and collect you at a scheduled time. Supposedly.

Thoughtful husbands have been known to do this for their wives instead of organising spa treatments.

Record and sell your own album – visit www.wikihow.com If you understand what to do, you shouldn’t be singing.

Go on a 21 day juice fast. Will clear your body of all the toxins and just about everything else as well. Just saying…

Cross a road in Vietnam without getting badly injured, or killed. You can go blindfolded even…it makes no

difference.

Climb the ‘heavenly stairs’ of the Mount Huashan Plank Trail in China – one of the most dangerous hikes on the planet. Get a REAL adrenaline rush and unhook yourself from the harness … and film your fall on a GoPro. Be in Chicago on St. Patrick’s Day (17 March) where the entire river is dyed green.

Get your hair groomed by a monkey in the Phillipines and pose for L’Oreal. Why? Because you’re worth it.

•

• • • • • •

And then there’s my own bucket list: Throw out my fat clothes.

Read a classic novel at least once a year and understand it without watching the TCM movie first.

Stay in an ice hotel just north of the Arctic Circle in Sweden… and take my own hot water bottle.

Get a souvenir from whatever country is visited, but come back with my own kidney. (But under NO circumstances a fridge magnet.)

Get kicked out of Walmart for indecent attire.

Eat at a 3-star Michelin Restaurant which is not pretentious.

Catch a running chicken.

Buy new fat clothes.

• • • • • • • •

“NEVER TELL ME THE SKY’S THE LIMIT WHEN THERE ARE FOOTPRINTS ON THE MOON” – ANON.

Zandspruit

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