The graduate class of 2022 is ready to kick off their professional lives, but for many, the first priority will be paying off their student loans. With the pressure to meet repayment deadlines, combined with a dwindling supply of entry-level positions, graduates are eager to jump at the first opportunity to make some money. For those who are not keen to spend the next year scraping by on an internship salary, teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) overseas presents an alternative option to earn a decent income, gain experience, and pay off a student loan, relatively quickly.

“With countries like China reopening their borders, we are seeing TEFL teaching opportunities increasing to pre-pandemic levels. Whether graduates decide to teach for six months or three years, TEFL can put them on a path to financial freedom, and help them accumulate the experience and skills they need to stand out in a competitive job market,” says Rhyan O’Sullivan, Managing Director at The TEFL Academy, South Africa’s leading provider of TEFL courses and qualifications.

Qualified teachers can expect to earn between R190 and R560 per hour, based on experience. In addition to being higher than the usual hourly salary for an entry-level job in South Africa, there is the added benefit of choosing to live on a beach in Bali, or a forest village in Indonesia. For graduates that need to start paying off their loans within six months of their graduation, a TEFL qualification – which can be completed in four to six weeks – can help ease the pressure to meet the first repayment deadline. Based on the cost of living in their country of choice, there might even be a little left over to save.

In terms of getting overseas, graduates will have an easier time securing a work visa, which is an essential prerequisite for entry to most countries. “In many of our most popular teaching destinations, a tertiary qualification in any discipline – whether it is in the humanities or engineering – is a requirement for entry to the country. This means they have a higher chance of securing a teaching post at their top location,” says O’Sullivan.

In addition to paying back student loans, graduates will gain invaluable work experience that they can take to their desired fields. “There are multiple career benefits to TEFL, such as the development of strong communication and organisational skills, but it can also be incredible for personal growth. Moving to another country teaches individuals to become self-sufficient and self-reliant, while contributing to the growth of another country’s population. All these skills are transferable, valued in the workplace, and can help further a career in any field,” says O’Sullivan.

Offering accessible and cost-effective ways to get TEFL-qualified, The TEFL Academy provides internationally accredited and regulated online courses. The company hosts a jobs board on their website where potential teachers can browse through over 1 500 international teaching opportunities. They also offer internships, which provide a higher level of support than standard TEFL jobs, to help teachers kick-start their TEFL careers. For more information, visit theteflacademy.com.

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As new owners of Stage House, we each hope to add a little bit more of our creative flare, we have always had a keen interest in interior decorating and something which we are passionate about. We have all each had different experiences in the working world that can contribute significantly to growing Stage House.

Our goal is to grow Stage House in many different areas of the shop and keep supplying great service. We look forward to getting to meet new and old clients and cant wait to make your house a home.”

Meet the Melle’s, a family duo!

Jess - A creative person at heart, who loves to make things beautiful. An entrepreneur is what I love to be. I love chasing sunsets and adventures in new places, sharing a picnic with my fiancé is an all time favourite. I cant wait to let my creativity flow with Stage House and see where the journey takes us. (Pictured top left.)

Cassie - Actually a qualified teacher, mom of a beautiful 6 month old baby girl, a wife to Gareth Melle the owner the Top Carpets Nottingham Road. Passionate about making your homes beautiful, a lover of plants, animals, the beach and exploring new places. (Pictured top right.)

Jeanne - A sewing fanatic and a mean potato bake maker. The one who can always plan with anything. A lover of family time, getting to spend time with all my kids from far and wide is my favourite thing. (Pictured top rmiddle.)

More about Stage House

Our trail team has made some small changes along the River Walk at Karkloof Country Club.

A short section of trail has recently been built that gradually takes you down to the Woodhouse Falls from the contour road above.

We received feedback relating to the initial trail built here that it was a little too steep in some areas. We appreciate the feedback!

After scouting for a new route our team took to their tools; closed the original trail and opened up something new. It offers an easier course down the steep slope, and a stunning view of the Woodhouse Falls as you make your way down the trail.

We would love to have you break in the new trail! Bring your friends and family along with a picnic (dogs on leash are most welcome too!) and enjoy sitting on the river bank.

The walk is 9km in distance. The route takes you past Woodhouse Falls (top falls picnic site) and the bottom picnic site that boasts a spectacular view of the Karkloof Falls. The route starts and finishes at the Karkloof Country Club. Trail users are required to have a day pass or annual membership. Day passes can be purchased at the Bike Shop at the country club.

The Karkloof valley booms with life, you will certainly see a lot of beautiful wildflowers, happy insects and an array of birds along the way (don’t forget to bring your binoc’s!)

We look forward to seeing you!

For more information contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Intrepid swimmers taking on the aQuellé Midmar Mile’s Charity Challenge dived into action at the KwaZulu-Natal dam today.

The hugely popular race has raised millions of rand for charity over the years, but one woman has been particularly prolific in adding to that significant total.

Cape Town swimmer Joanne Barnard has raised over R600,000 in the last 10 years. Having participated in the world’s largest open-water swimming event just for fun for the first time in 2009, Barnard decided to start fundraising in 2014. She chose to focus her efforts on childhood cancer foundation CHOC, one of the official charities of the aQuellé Midmar Mile. The foundation’s mission is to save lives through early detection, and it provides comprehensive support programmes for families affected by cancer.

“The amount that I’ve managed to raise since 2014, including this year, will be just on R610,000. I’m probably going to be able to push it to R620,000 so it’s been quite amazing. It’s been a real, real journey,” explained Barnard, who is taking part in the 8-Mile Charity Challenge once again this year. That means crossing the famous KwaZulu-Natal dam four times on day one and another four times the following day.

Barnard’s target for this year is R130,000 and she has already raised by far the most of any swimmer taking part in this year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile.

Asked how she manages to raise so much each year, Barnard explained: “I have my own accounting business so I have quite a nice database of clients and what I do is I harass them and I send them mails and I send them letters and ask for money.

“I obviously give them the whole background of CHOC and the importance of the charity. I think that I can put my success down to the fact that I’ve made them aware of it. Any stories that come through about CHOC I share with them, and having a good relationship with my clients also helps. In the beginning I used to be quite shy to ask for money and now in my 10th year if they are slightly unsure, I just keep on pushing and telling them it’s for the sick children, so they need to help.”

Barnard said knowing the money is going to such a meaningful cause means she never struggles with finding the motivation to keep fundraising.

“In the last few years what happens is that when we get our CHOC bags with our costumes and everything, what they do is the children actually write us a little note and they address it to you. Then they will say – thank you so much for doing this for us. And that in itself is such a huge motivation.

“For me, I have my health and I know that there are so many children that are ill and their families get torn apart. So that just motivates me to keep going and to raise the funds and I know that every single cent actually goes towards helping these children and their families.”

As for her advice to those who may still be deciding whether or not to take part in the 50th aQuellé Midmar Mile this weekend, Barnard reckoned: “If you enjoy swimming and you love the water, just do it. Just get in there, and join in.

“It is the most unbelievable experience that you will have. Thousands of people getting in the water and not everyone swims it to win it… Join us and come and have some fun. It’s going to be an awesome year.”

The 50th aQuellé Midmar Mile takes place from 9-12 February 2023 at Midmar Dam in KwaZulu-Natal, with the 8- and 16-Mile Charity Challenge being swum on 9 and 10 February and the main events on 11 and 12 February. Online entries are now closed. Those still wishing to swim can enter on the day at the dam but should arrive two hours before their race. For more details, head to www.midmarmile.co.za

Photo credit: Action Photo SA

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And into February we go, with a relatively quiet week!

Our mixed pairs club competitions are almost through the first rounds. During the course of the week the following games were played:-

Graham Sharp & Melanie Ross won against Koos Marais & Sheridan Schraader. Well done to Graham and Mel, who picked up an 8 on their 17th end which put enough of a shot difference between the teams to make catch up quite a challenge.

Colin Burden & Chantal D’Hotman won against Neil Wright and Lisa Nagel. Theirs was a very close game with the teams going into the last end peeled on 17, however Colin and Chantal picked up one shot to win.

Well done to all players on great games!

The snooker club is starting to take shape with games being played on alternative Friday's and also on Wednesday evenings. As we get more players we'll formalize things a bit more and start running some competitions.

Friday Night Lights is also starting to come along nicely with our next game coming up this Friday at 5.15pm. That’s definitely going to be a fun one.

Our new greenskeeper is settling in nicely with only one hiccup…. GOATS! Only in Africa do you have to chase goats off the greens!

FORTHCOMING EVENTS
Wednesday, 8 February : Halfway Toyota Drawn Trips. Tabs In 13h15
Saturday, 11 February : Greendale Spar 3 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 13h15
Tuesday, 21 February : J Leslie Smith Drawn 2-4-2 Nominated Mixed Pairs. Tabs In 08h15
Friday, 24 February : SGK Nominated 2 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 08h45

Regular tabs in times are:-
Tuesdays at 08h15
Wednesdays at 13h15
Saturdays at 13h15.

Visitors are always welcome. For more information contact Wendy on 071 353 2866

Coaching by registered coaches is available: Contact Colin or Bernice on 071 164 3162 for further information.

Picture here: Our new greenskeeper in action chasing goats!

More about UWBC

Join in the fun of an entertaining family styled market on the field between Holmes and Patterson Road on Sunday 26 February 2023 to support the African Raptor Centre's fundraiser. For any questions about the market or to book a site you can connect with Leanne on 084 662 2400.

Description of the African Raptor Centre sanctuary and their work:

The African Raptor Centre strives for the preservation of indigenous birds of prey through creative education, scientific rehabilitation, conservation breeding and practical research. The Sanctuary serves as base to ongoing research, breeding and rehabilitation projects for birds of prey.

The raptors housed at the Sanctuary are either captive bred or they are non-releasable rehabilitation birds which, due to the permanent nature of their injuries, can no longer survive in the wild. These birds now serve as “conservation ambassadors” for their wild counterparts.

Education about birds of prey, and the threats that they face, is an important part of raptor conservation. No amount of research can be effective unless the results of the projects are shared with the greater public. Neither can conservation methods be successfully implemented unless people know and understand what both the raptors and related conservation projects are all about.

One of the primary roles of the African Raptor Centre is to introduce raptors, in all their magnificence, to the general public. To facilitate this, a specially trained group of raptors are flown in daily flight displays. These demonstrations allow the raptors themselves to become both teachers and ambassadors for their wild counterparts, so that members of the public can experience these normally rare and elusive birds first hand.

We Educate in order to Conserve.

Pictured here: White Backed Vultures with chick.

Since 2010 Harvard Electrical Wholesalers has grown three fold, thanks to the support of their loyal client base. This rapid growth has allowed Harvard Electrical to move to larger premises in Howick. They believe in offering excellent customer service, a wide range of diverse products at very competitive prices and most importantly, they listen to their clients.

Harvard Electrical supply products which are manufactured both locally and internationally and are fully compliant with recognised safety standards and specifications.

Harvard Electrical is the only ELECTRICAL WHOLESALER in the greater Howick area.

Do you remember this Kudu calf...?

Well he is doing just fine. Still on a bottle, he has just started supplementing his milk by feeding on lucerne and leaves. Last time we showed you how we introduced him to a bottle feeder so as not to imprint on the person feeding. We'll post an update shortly of just how well this is working. This calf is wild, not imprinted on people, and will be fit for release as a wild animal, in a few months time.

We love what we do, and how we do it...

But we can't do it alone. Please visit our website for ideas on how you can help: www.freemewildlife.org/support-us

More about FreeMe Wildlife

As preparations for the 2023 Absa Cape Epic, Africa’s untamed mountain-biking race and the premier mountain bike stage race in the world, get underway, with the 19th edition taking place from 19 to 26 March 2023 across eight days, 658 gruelling kilometres with 15 775 metres of limit-testing climbing, the proudly African bank, Absa, hosted their annual Team Absa Training Camp at Karkloof Country Club in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands from 26 to 29 January 2023.

As part of the training camp activities, key Absa stakeholders and colleagues, clients and riders and the Karkloof community members, including local municipality delegates, visited Yarrow Intermediate School to hand over a stationary Absa bus, which is now converted into an engagement space that can accommodate up to 60 children from Grade R to Grade 7 at a time. This project is part of the bank’s focus to play its role in empowering communities through education.

“Our sincere gratitude to Absa for the donation to Yarrow Intermediate School, children will now enjoy story time in the comfort of the stationary bus, which will also serve as a research centre for projects. In the future, we would like to extend the use of the library to include adults in the community. This will be for information sharing where we could invite guest speakers and share valuable information," says Mary Gray, Yarrow Intermediate School Project Coordinator.

Sydney Mbhele, Group Chief Brand, Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer, commented, “Absa aims to enable meaningful impact in the communities in which we operate. This legacy project at Yarrow Intermediate School is another milestone for the bank and aligns to our strategy of enhanced access to education. We pride ourselves on bringing possibilities to life and through this project, we aim to contribute to improving our country's literacy rate."

This Absa Legacy project includes the upkeep of the library at the school for years to come.

Photo credit Erin Nel of Benhouse Media for Alta Pax Media

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Halfway through February already … how did that happen!

On Saturday we held our (slightly belated) 2022 prize giving and congratulations must go to the following trophy recipients:-

Drawn Trips: Mike Scheffer, Bob Chetty & Jeanette James
2 Bowl Trips: Colin Burden, Bob Chetty & Malcolm Tait
Mixed Pairs: Peter Burton & Jeanette James
Ladies Pairs: Lisa Nagel & Wendy Smith
Men’s Pairs: Peter Burton & David Mainprize
Novice Singles: Kevin Palmer
Most Improved Player: Shared by Arlene Malloy & Pippa Griffin
Ladies Singles: Pippa Griffin
Men’s Singles: Colin Burden
Victrix Ludorum: Jeanette James
Victor Ludorum: Peter Burton

Well done to all our members who took part in the 2022 competitions and to our winners on their victories!

As for our 2023 club competitions, the mixed pairs are almost through the first rounds with the following games having been played:
Graham Sharp & Melanie Ross won against Koos Marais & Sheridan Schraader. Well done to Graham and Mel, who picked up an 8 on their 17th end which put enough of a shot difference between the teams to make catch up quite a challenge.

Colin Burden & Chantal D’Hotman won against Neil Wright and Lisa Nagel. Theirs was a very close game with the teams going into the last end peeled on 17, however Colin and Chantal picked up one shot to win.

In the drawn trips, Colin Burden, Pat Ciro & Sheridan Schraader won their game against Lisa Nagel, Grace Mainprize and Arlene Malloy.
Well done to all players on great games!

Over the weekend, we had three teams enter the NIBA Trips competition. It was a very hot, and quite humid day, with some challenging greens and strong opposition.

Steve Smith, Neil Wright & Kevin Palmer played at Collegians and won against both Lynwood and Maritzburg West but lost to Howick.

Colin Burden, Bob Chetty & Koos Marais played at Maritzburg West and lost to Maritzburg West and Howick but picked up a win against Lynwood.

Lisa Nagel, Wendy Smith & Ann Cacho played at Lynwood and lost to Lynwood and Howick but went on to win against Maritzburg West.

All the players gave their best and an enjoyable day was had by all!

The snooker club is starting to take shape with games being played on alternative Friday's and also on Wednesday evenings. As we get more players we'll formalize things a bit more and start running some competitions so watch this space for more information!

Lastly, Steve Smith who is our new greenskeeper is settling in nicely with only one hiccup…. GOATS! Only in Africa do you have to chase goats off the greens!

FORTHCOMING EVENTS
Tuesday, 21 February : J Leslie Smith Drawn 2-4-2 Nominated Mixed Pairs. Tabs In 08h15
Friday, 24 February : SGK Nominated 2 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 08h45
Wednesday, 1 March : Halfway Toyota Drawn Trips. Tabs In 13h15
Saturday, 4 March : Greendale Spar 3 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 13h15

Regular tabs in times are:-
Tuesdays at 08h15
Wednesdays at 13h15
Saturdays at 13h15.

Visitors are always welcome. For more information contact Wendy on 071 353 2866

Coaching by registered coaches is available: Contact Colin or Bernice on 071 164 3162 for further information.

More about Umgeni Waterfall Bowling Club

KZN Midland’s own Mrs Zama Keswa can now add Mrs South Africa semi-finalist to her impressive resume as she joins the class of 2023.

Keswa received the happy news on Friday, 03 February after the National Casting event at Emperors Palace, in Johannesburg. Following the announcement, the semi-finalists took part in a jam-packed two-day conference filled with motivational talks, workshops, upskilling sessions, socialising and networking opportunities, and an introduction to the famous Mrs SA sisterhood.

“I felt ecstatic and obviously blessed” says Keswa upon receiving the news.

Mrs South Africa is foremost a self-discovery and empowerment programme that celebrates diversity, ambition, and confidence while showcasing some of the country’s most phenomenal and talented women and giving them the skills and tools needed to achieve their dreams.

Joani Johnson, CEO of Mrs SA, says, “We are proud to work alongside so many strong, formidable, and inspirational married women, and to empower them through our pillars of community, self-development, and networking to be the leaders and social game-changers that we need in this country.

“Our experienced mentors teach leadership, entrepreneurship, marketing, self-promotion, and self-discovery throughout the year to ensure that all participants have a truly life changing experience.”

Sharing more about her decision to enter, Keswa says, “I believe anything is possible as long as your mind to it with dedication and commitment’.

As part of her journey, she hopes to share her experience and motivate young people in achieving their goals their set themselves to attain as well is instil confidence in them irrespective of their background.

“We are blown away by the number of high-quality entries that we received this year, and we are deeply appreciative to have met so many wonderful women from all walks of life. The National Casting day was exceptionally difficult, as a substantial number of entrants have what it takes to make a success of this programme,” notes Johnson.

This year, the casting panel was looking for women who have a keen interest in empowering others, display strong family values, and are passionate about making a difference in their community and the world.

Keswa fully embodies the values that Mrs SA holds most dear and is representative of our tagline for the year: #EveryWoman. We look forward to going on this journey with her and her fellow sisters,” concludes Johnson.

Be sure to follow Keswa’s journey on the Mrs South Africa Instagram and Facebook pages.

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Gloomy weather did nothing to dampen the spirits of the swimmers taking on the aQuellé Midmar Mile Charity Challenge over the last two days.

A total of 22 swimmers completed the gruelling 16-Mile Challenge, swimming eight miles on Thursday and eight more on Friday, while there were 231 entrants in the 8-Mile Challenge split over the two days, who raised millions of rand in the process.

Once again completing the 16 miles in the quickest time was Reino von Wielligh, who will also be gunning for a top-10 spot in the men’s elite race on Sunday. His combined time for all 16 miles was six hours, 12 minutes and 11 seconds, while the fastest female swimmer was Emma Carmody, whose time of 6 hours 36 minutes and 48 seconds saw her finishing second overall. Carmody will also be hoping to impress in the elite women’s race on Sunday.

“By the last four, I thought we were going to end it well, but then the wind just picked up and I think the slowest four were the last four,” explained Von Wielligh. “But that’s where you have to dig deep. The tougher it gets the more you think about why you’re doing it,” said Van Wielligh, who had a clear plan of action after his final mile of the day.

“I’m going to get a warm shower, a piece of steak and a good massage, not in that order,” he reckoned.

While this was Von Wielligh’s sixth 16-Mile Challenge, raising money for Happy Bundles, it was a first for Carmody.

“It was an incredible experience. I’ll definitely do it again,” she said afterwards. “The last four was definitely the most challenging thing I’ve ever done but I’m very glad to have finished.”

Meanwhile, among the 8-Mile Challenge swimmers over the past two days was 80-year-old Paul Lanterme, who was raising money for CANSA.

“I wanted to be the oldest person to do it. The last time I did it I was young, I was 76,” he quipped. “Also, I’ve had a couple of friends who have passed away from cancer so this is the fourth time I’ve swum for CANSA.

“To be the oldest person is actually great and tomorrow I’m swimming again with my son and grandson,” added Lanterme, who achieved South African colours for surf lifesaving and in triathlon at masters level.

Also in the group of those completing the 8-Mile Challenge was a former winner of the aQuellé Midmar Mile, Linda Adam.

Adam (then Linda Jardin) took the elite women’s title in 1976, the same year that now-race director Wayne Riddin claimed victory in the men’s race.

“I can’t believe that it’s still going after all this time and that I actually won with Wayne – and I wasn’t even a freestyle swimmer so it was awesome,” said Adam. “It was nothing like it is now… you just got in there and got out here, so it’s a massive change and hats off to Wayne, he’s done brilliantly.”

Adam completed the 8-Mile Challenge for the seventh time. “I love swimming and this year I did it with my daughter – she did it for the first time so I swam with her which was lovely,” she said.

As for her reasons for swimming in aid of Pink Drive, Adam explained: “I have so many people affected by cancer. I swim for somebody every year – that’s why I do it – and this year it’s for my husband so it’s for a brilliant cause.”

Thousands more swimmers will converge on Midmar Dam over the next two days as the main events get underway. Those still wishing to swim the aQuellé Midmar Mile can enter on the day at the dam but should arrive two hours before their race. For more details, head to www.midmarmile.co.za

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Many champions have graced the podium in the 50-year history of the aQuellé Midmar Mile and numerous characters have emerged as stalwarts of the iconic event.

One such swimmer, who has gone somewhat under the radar despite her enormous success, is Rita Townsend.

The 66-year-old is the mother of 2004 Olympic relay champion and former world record-holder Darian Townsend but has also notched up an impressive record of her own.

The Pietermaritzburg swimmer first competed in the aQuellé Midmar Mile in 1981, when she and husband Ted moved to the city.

They didn’t return to the event until the 1990s though, once their children were older, and Townsend then began her triumphant run at Midmar. Her age group victories have spanned a remarkable four decades (three in the 31-40 category, seven in the 41-50, eight in the 51-60s and three so far in the 61-70s).

Victory wasn’t necessarily Townsend’s main motivation over the years, however. “I enjoy keeping fit and following a healthy lifestyle,” she explained. “Swimming is the easiest way for me to exercise. My main aim is to keep healthy and keep the bulges at bay but I don't have the time to put in the mileage that I would like to.”

Much of Townsend’s time is taken up by teaching and coaching others and many a young Pietermaritzburg swimmer has come through her ranks.

“As a swimming teacher and coach at junior school level, I am hugely satisfied when I have instilled a love of swimming in the children I teach who go on to swimming competitively at club level or enjoy participating in our Midmar Mile,” she said.

“Competitive swimming keeps youngsters constructively busy, away from too much TV and computer games, and off the streets. Swimming at Midmar Dam and the beach over the weekends were our go-to places when our children were growing up.”

Asked what brings her back to the event each year, Townsend explained: “Partly because Midmar is right on our doorstep but mainly because [race director] Wayne

Riddin puts on such a spectacular swimming event each year. It becomes an exciting event to take part in and for spectators to be there. Also, it is a great opportunity to catch up with old friends and swimmers from all over the country.”

As for the chances of winning a 22nd age group title this weekend, Townsend admits she isn’t too certain.

“I’m not terribly confident of winning this year. I didn’t win it last year. I’ve never actually won an entire decade. As you get to the top of a decade, you’re racing against people much younger than yourself… that’s how it happens. I don’t always win and that’s ok.

“This year I think I’m just going to be happy to get on the podium because I know there are a lot of good swimmers out there that are actually better swimmers than myself… the bottom line is – do your best on the day and hope you swim the straightest line so that you don’t swim any extra metres. I’m pretty sure there’ll be stiff competition out there with this being the 50th anniversary of the Midmar Mile so I’m looking forward to seeing a whole bunch of blasts from the past and we’ll see how it goes on the day.”

The aQuellé Midmar Mile takes place from 9-12 February 2023 at Midmar Dam in KwaZulu-Natal. Online entries are now closed. Those still wishing to swim can enter on the day at the dam but should arrive two hours before their race. For more details, head to www.midmarmile.co.za

Photo credits: Action Photo SA

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South Africans may be more familiar with spotting former Bafana Bafana star Mark Fish on a football field. But come this weekend he’ll be taking to the water for the 50th anniversary aQuellé Midmar Mile.

The 1996 Africa Cup of Nations champion is a regular at the KwaZulu-Natal dam and will be taking on the mile for a sixth time, while also raising money for charity.

“The Midmar is an event that is close to my heart as I have competed in five, going on six and they all have been different experiences,” said Fish, who has just returned from the African Nations Championship in Algeria where he was working as a member of the CAF Technical Study Group.

“The event is fantastically organised and competitors are friendly and all self-motivated for different reasons.

“I have swum a few by myself, others with friends and the last one with my daughter and am slowly dragging family and friends to do this event with me.

“The environment, the atmosphere, the swimmers, and most importantly the organisation make this event what it is, so well done to all involved,” added the aptly named Fish.

Meanwhile, two of South Africa’s Olympic gold medallists won’t make it to the dam this weekend but have hailed the event and wished swimmers well.

2004 Olympic 4x100m freestyle relay champion Ryk Neethling won the men’s elite race at Midmar in 1994 and 1995, and then again in 2001.

“Obviously being the biggest open water swimming event I think that makes it special – and the history of it. I remember as you approach the event on the Sunday morning, you see the traffic and then the butterflies start so it’s always a special feeling being there,” said Neethling.

“It’s a great weekend and obviously it’s a healthy event, you meet lots of old friends and teammates and make new friends, there’s nothing bad about the experience. It’s only positive,” added the 45-year-old who still trains three to four times a week but now focuses much of his time on playing polo at Val de Vie Estate, where he works as marketing director.

Also wishing swimmers well for the weekend ahead was 2012 Olympic champion Chad le Clos. As a butterfly swimmer, Le Clos has never won the elite race at the aQuellé Midmar Mile but started swimming the event as a youngster.

His foundation is also one of the official charities which benefit from the event.

“It’s really amazing that it’s already the 50th anniversary of the Midmar Mile. A huge congrats to [race director] Wayne Riddin for everything that he’s done. It’s crazy to think how far we’ve come in the last couple of years. I’m very honoured for the Chad le Clos Foundation to be part of this. It’s an absolute honour for me and everyone involved.

“Unfortunately this year I won’t be able to be there… I have other commitments in Europe, racing the Euro circuit with my coach in Frankfurt. But I want to thank Wayne for everything he’s done for me and for the foundation and thank Julian Taylor and the Chad le Clos Foundation team for all they’ve done. We will have representatives there but one day I hope to swim this amazing event again when my schedule allows.

“It's a huge accomplishment and the biggest open water swimming event in the world so for me it’s an absolute honour to be involved in this and congratulations to everyone. We will be watching online and keeping a close eye,” added the four-time Olympic medallist.

The aQuellé Midmar Mile takes place from 9-12 February 2023 at Midmar Dam in KwaZulu-Natal. Online entries are now closed. Those still wishing to swim can enter on the day at the dam but should arrive two hours before their race.

For more details, head to www.midmarmile.co.za

Photo credits: Action Photo SA

Pictured here: Mark Fish and daughter Isabella finish Midmar Mile in 2022.

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As we head into a brand-new year, this is the ideal time to splash out on some home upgrades to give your interior space a much-needed revamp.

Kim Williams, a top Cape Town interior designer, behaviour specialist, and owner of the Kim Williams Design studio, unveils the top trends which every homeowner should know in 2023.
1. Colour is back with a bang
South Africans enter the new year in the throes of a bright and hot summer. The muted tones that had a calming and healing affect over us during the pandemic are being replaced with brighter colours and bolder designs.

We are likely to see a big uptick in rooms filled with mood boosting colours that reflect personal style and taste. Yellow shades are especially associated with feelings of happiness and optimism, and Plascon’s colour combination for 2023 really captures the different stages of light and cheerfulness of this time of year.

 2. Create an experience and not collect things
Thanks to social media, we are now all mini celebrities, with our own individual brand and aesthetic, and the best way to articulate this is in our interior décor. It’s a trend mainly driven by a much younger generation wanting to express themselves but also comes off the back of isolation and lockdown restrictions which brought mingling and memory making to a grinding halt.

Expect to see bold art pieces and expressive accent colours on fabrics and wallcoverings. They might not conform to typical design and interior décor conventions, but they are effective in adding pops of colour, an element of intrigue and interest, and celebrates the different voices, cultures, and individual personalities that make up life.

3. Repair, Recycle and Repurpose
Deepened healing is a huge behavioural trend which I have spoken about at length in the first edition of my report, ‘Behind the Design’. This inclusive design essentially looks at the desire for humans to always want to be connected to nature and it continues to gain constant traction.

One reason for this is the strong drive to repair and repurpose items and reduce waste, especially given the recent supply and demand constraints caused by the war in Ukraine. I have also been seeing a fantastic emerging trend where old, cherished memories from past generations are brought to life in beautiful quilts and wall hangings, that then act as bespoke décor pieces in the home. It is such a unique way to tell a story and invoke interest.

4. Embracing outdoor living
As temperatures rise, so too does our desire to be outside, barefoot, and carefree, sipping drinks and enjoying garden games with loved ones. Merging our outdoor and indoor living space is going to be huge this year, as it brings in light, improves flow and balance and keeps our living area feeling bright and spacious.

Remember, an outdoor space only works if it exudes a bright and breezy feel, so don’t add too much. Transparent ghost chairs are a great practical outdoor solution, and you can easily swap out the cushions and throws from season to season. From a décor perspective, this is where you can properly express elements of deepened healing. Consider adding repurposed or repaired items of furniture, previously loved design pieces in soft curves and shapes, and appealing pieces of artwork.

5. Be water wise
Next year is all about reconnecting with all aspects of planet earth and we don’t just mean dotting a few plant pots around. Our connection with water continues to be a rising phenomena all over the world and especially in places like Cape Town where cold-water swimming and general ocean awareness is growing in popularity.

Expect to see plenty of water features next year, both in the home, and the garden, that promote feelings of calmness, tranquillity and balance.

6. Conscious materials
Our desire for sustainable, eco-conscious living transcends to all parts of the design and décor sphere. We are likely to see more use of locally sourced materials, such as rattan, wood, stone, and weaves that are interspersed with soft furnishings and décor pieces made by local craftspeople.

There is also going to be a stronger effort to be deliberate with décor, with every item carefully considered for the value it will add to the overall objective, feeling or experience before it is added to a room. We’re likely to see people not just using décor for its aesthetic appeal, but to help create or contribute towards the entire energy and experience of the space.

For more tips from Kim Williams, sign-up for her blog at www.kimwilliams.co.za or follow her on Facebook and Instagram @kim_williams_design.

Photo credit: Decorex

Supplied.

Fires damage property. It also causes injuries or death, and can even result in loss of jobs since many buildings destroyed by fire are not rebuilt. Proper fire safety training, as well as being fully aware of the different fire hazards and having the correct Safety Equipment in place is vital.

That old saying "Knowledge is power" certainly applies here... know what to do in the event of a fire, but even better, know what to do to prevent a fire!

The end of January already, but as they say, time flies when you’re having fun, and we most certainly have been having a fair amount of that.

The first rounds of our mixed pairs club competitions have continued with Colin and Pat Norris playing against Colin Brown and Ann Chacho. Well done to Colin and Ann for advancing to the next round.

Another great day of bowls took place at our monthly SG Knott Construction Nominated 2 Bowl Trips which was held on Friday, 27th January. We had sixteen teams entered and as always at UWBC, there was a fair amount of laughter and joviality on the greens. All teams played 2 sessions of 8 ends, followed by a last session of 10 ends, and the overall results were as follows:-

Winners: Craig Whitby, Tara Janse Van Rensburg, Mark Taylor
Runners Up: Fred Palmer, Bob Mitchell, Tor Andersson
Third Place: Colin Burden, Mark Schraader, Kevin Palmer
Plate Prize: Ed Sharp, Shayne Knott, Rick Olivier

Congratulations to the winners, and well done to all our bowlers for an awesome day on the greens! Also, a BIG thank you to Shayne Knott of SG Knott Construction for the generous prize sponsorships, as well as to Pippa Griffin of Dormehl Phalane for the tea time treats.

In other news, we say goodbye to Graham Sharp (aka Sharpie) who after many years of hard work and dedication as our greenskeeper has handed the reins over to Steve Smith. Thank you, Sharpie, for all your input over the years; a greenskeeper’s job is never-ending and always a bit of a thankless one, however, you’ve steadily continued doing a wonderful job of looking after our greens and it has been much appreciated. Good luck to Steve; we look forward to growing in your new role and have the utmost confidence that you will continue to maintain our greens to a high standard.

Lastly, we’d like to say good luck to Lisa Nagel, and all the inter-district players who will be playing their first tournaments this weekend. Good bowling and may the NIBA flag be flown high!

FORTHCOMING EVENTS
Wednesday, 1 February : Halfway Toyota Drawn Trips. Tabs In 13h15
Saturday, 11 February : Greendale Spar 3 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 13h15
Tuesday, 21 February : J Leslie Smith Drawn 2-4-2 Nominated Mixed Pairs. Tabs In 08h15
Friday, 24 February : SGK Nominated 2 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 08h45

Regular tabs in times are:-
Tuesdays at 08h15
Wednesdays at 13h15
Saturdays at 13h15.

Visitors are always welcome. For more information contact Wendy on 071 353 2866

Coaching by registered coaches is available: Contact Colin or Bernice on 071 164 3162 for further information.

Picture Caption – (L to R) Graham Sharp and Steve Smith.

More about Umgeni Waterfall Bowling Club

Please be aware of opportunistic theft. There have been several incidents where doors and windows were left open or unsecured and alarms were not set. Copper pipes, bicycles, outdoor furniture, tools, electronic items, cell phones, diesel and TV’s have been targeted. Please also note that criminals have been going into houses while residents are at home, so please be vigilant about security, even when you are at home.

More about Knight Security Solutions.