5 Compelling Reasons to Witness the Ocean's Greatest Show on Earth

South Africa’s iconic Sardine Run, one of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles on the planet, unfolds along South Africa’s East Coast each winter. The seasonal marine migration of billions of these small silvery fish between late May and July is associated with a drop in sea temperature during winter. This creates a narrow band of cooler water along the coastline, attracting the sardines. And, while the migration is also strongly influenced by ocean currents, it remains one of nature’s great enigmas, as the exact drivers behind the Sardine Run are still not fully understood.

“This thrilling phenomenon is as spectacular as it is unpredictable, as no two seasons are the same due to the variation in timing and scale,” says Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group Hotels and Resorts. It attracts tourists, researchers, and locals alike, offering an unforgettable glimpse into one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events as kilometres of sardines, pursued by massive numbers of predators, spark a marine feeding frenzy. The sheer scale and energy of it all make it a true bucket-list experience."

The migration typically starts off along the Transkei coast in the Eastern Cape and moves up the Wild Coast and along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. Most years, the run doesn’t extend much beyond Durban, as warmer water temperatures and strong currents tend to disperse the shoals. “It’s also important to note that the Sardine Run isn’t one long, continuous shoal,” explains Lamont. “Rather, it consists of multiple shoals arriving at different times, varying in size and location, and typically spans a period of four to six weeks.”

Lamont believes the Sardine Run earns a spot on any adventurer’s bucket list and offers five compelling reasons why :

1. It’s a marine safari like no other

The Sardine Run surpasses even the great wildebeest migration in volume - it’s nature at full throttle and every avid angler's dream. Game fish like tuna, mackerel, dorado and even marlin follow the sardines, and boat and dive operators offer fishing charters and dive excursions so you can come face-to-face with this 'Greatest Shoal on Earth'. And for the fishermen…hook into something special here and you'll have bragging rights for life. It’s the stuff that makes for legendary photos and even better stories.

2. It’s one of nature’s last untamed events

No tanks, no feeding times, no human control. Just raw nature happening in real time. It’s a rare chance to see a wild marine event up close and personal.

3. Boosting Coastal Communities

Every year, the Sardine Run draws local tourists and visitors from around the world to the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. Accommodation providers see high occupancy rates during the season, which usually coincides with school holidays. Restaurants and local businesses also benefit from the influx, making it one of the region's key tourism highlights.

4. It’s a photographer’s dream

From swirling bait balls and breaching whales to leaping dolphins and the golden light of early mornings on the ocean, the Sardine Run offers some of the most amazing photo opportunities in nature. For those with an underwater lens, these massive shoals create once-in-a-lifetime shots, so whether you're a seasoned photographer or just love capturing your holiday's memories, there's no shortage of unforgettable sights.

5. See it while the sardines still run

Scientists have observed a gradual delay in the timing of the shoals as ocean waters warm. While the event still dazzles each year, this unpredictability adds some urgency because even the ‘Greatest Shoal on Earth’ is vulnerable to a changing climate.

So, if you’ve never witnessed the Sardine Run, perhaps this is the year to do it. Whether you choose to experience it from the beach watching excited locals haul in nets of fish, venture out by boat, or see it from the air during a helicopter ride, visitors are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.

And comfortable, family-friendly accommodation options in prime South Coast locations place you right in the heart of the action. Properties like Margate Sands, La Côte d'Azur, and Costa Smeralda in Margate, or Club Hacienda in Shelly Beach, offer front-row views for making magical, lasting memories.

"There's something humbling about standing on the edge of the ocean watching one of nature's greatest marvels unfold,” concludes Lamont, “and the Sardine Run reminds you just how wonderful our planet still is."

To book your accommodation for the Sardine Run, visit www.firstgroup-sa.co.za

Top: Sunrise magic from Margate Sands, South Coast

The children at Heritage House Preschool had a fantastic time on Occupation Day, dressing up in a variety of 'work outfits' to showcase their future career aspirations. The theme, which was the focus of this week's activities, generated lots of chatter and excitement among the young learners.

As they saw their peers dressed in different 'work outfits', the children were thrilled to discover what their friends want to be when they grow up. The teachers also participated in the festivities, adding to the excitement and fun.

This engaging experience provided a valuable opportunity for the children to learn about the importance of various occupations and the diverse roles that shape our community.

It’s almost time for The Rema Tip Top Midlands Motor Show in the Midlands!

With over 100 incredible vehicles on display, this one is not to be missed. A Father’s Day like no other.

What else can you expect?
• Live music
• Craft beer and drinks
• LOTS of amazing food
• Delicious coffee
• Enough to keep the kids busy for hours
• Pet friendly
• A great Midlands vibe
• Only R30 entry, kids 12 and under are free!

We’ve teamed up with uMngeni SPCA to help them fund the amazing work they do for our community!

Just put Stockowners Outdoor Park in your google maps to easily find us.

A unique opportunity for African screenwriters to take their stories to the global stage

African screenwriters with bold, original series ideas are invited to apply for the 4th edition of the AuthenticA Series Lab, a transformative six-month development programme designed to elevate episodic storytelling from the continent to the global stage.

Presented by Realness Institute in partnership with The StoryBoard Collective, the Geneva-based philanthropic organisation that supports the development and impact outreach of transformative stories, the Lab nurtures authentic African voices, offering one-on-one mentorship and industry access. Additionally, The Canada Media Fund returns as a funder for the second year, supporting the inclusion of one Canadian screenwriter from the African diaspora.

Running from 3 September 2025 to 27 March 2026, the programme offers a hybrid professional development experience for African screenwriters from all genres of scripted episodic storytelling. The Lab combines online discussions, seminars, and one-on-ones, with in-person residencies at three international locations: a 10-day residency in Cape Town, South Africa, a 2-month residency in Geneva, Switzerland, culminating in a week-long industry immersion at Series Mania in Lille, France, Europe’s largest co-production series market and festival attracting sales agents, talent scouts, distributors, broadcasters and investors.

“This Lab is more than a script development programme - it’s an opportunity for writers to unearth what they are unable to say in a supported environment and get closer to their voices,” says Mehret Mandefro, Interim Managing Director of Realness Institute.

Director of Writing Programmes at Realness Institute and Lab co-designer Selina Ukwuoma joins Mandefro, who is the producing and showrunning mentor, in guiding the cohort. “We’re looking for storytellers who aren’t afraid to say something urgent and real,” says Ukwuoma. “The Lab provides space, mentorship, and a direct bridge to industry—to support each story to reach its full artistic and marketable potential.”

The 2024 cohort pitched their projects at the Series Mania Forum in France in March this year, drawing an audience of over 100 broadcasters, producers, and decision-makers. Since then, many have advanced into further development—proof of the programme’s impact.

2024/25 alumnus, Tony Koros (Kenya) who presented his project Money Town at Series Mania, which has been selected for further development at The Red Sea Serieslab has this to say about AuthenticA: “It was more than a workshop. It was a creative reawakening. The programme pushed me to write with more honesty and less fear. It challenged me to reconnect with why I write in the first place and gave me good friends and great wine to hold my hand through it. It produced some of my best work.”

"Because we believe in the power of storytelling as a tool for narrative change, we are committed to giving writers the time and resources they need to develop their own authentic projects,” says David Rimer, Founder: The StoryBoard Collective. “After three editions, we have seen the AuthenticA programme gain international recognition and make a meaningful impact on the careers of our alumni."

Francesco Capurro - Series Mania Forum Director says, “We’re proud to continue our collaboration with the Realness Institute and the StoryBoard Collective on the AuthenticA Series Lab, which is now well established. This initiative has proven its worth in supporting emerging talent. Africa is a rich source of unique voices and compelling stories, and Series Mania is committed to showcasing them on the global stage.”

“Partnering with the Realness Institute over the last three years has been fulfilling and impactful," says Jessica Lea Fleming, Director of Growth & Inclusion at The Canada Media Fund. "The AuthenticA Series Lab empowers storytellers, including the Canadian-African participant, by developing skills that boost careers, grow companies, and increase market access. We are proud to support a program that aligns so well with the actions in our 2024-2027 EDIA Strategy."

The Lab is open to African screenwriters working in all genres of scripted episodic or series storytelling, including drama, comedy, thriller, sci-fi, amongst others. Writers retain full rights to their projects. Four participants will be selected from the submissions – three from Africa and one from Canada.

Applications are currently open, closing on Friday 11 July 2025 (16h00 SAST).
To apply or learn more: https://www.realness.institute/authentica-series-lab
Or contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Halfway Toyota Competition was played in perfect weather conditions on Saturday, 07 June. The happy winners were Lisa Nagel and Pam Radley.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS IN JUNE
Tuesday 17 June: J Leslie Smith Nominated 2-4-2 Competition
Friday, 27 June: Bosch Autoworx Two Bowl Trips.

We wish both Lisa Nagel and Neil Wright good bowling in the NIBA Men and Women’s Singles to be played on Sunday, 15 June.

Venue to be announced.

REGULAR BOWLS DAYS unless otherwise stated.
Times / Dress code:
Tuesday 08h45 for play at 09h00 / Casual
Wednesday 13h15 for play at 13h30 / Casual
Saturday 13h15 for play at 13h30 / Club Colours or whites

All registered bowlers and visitors are welcome to join us on these days.

Why not come along and meet the members and coaches on any of the above dates? Bowls is a sport for all ages.

Coaching by registered coaches is available.

All enquiries referring to club matters may be emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge Durban: Sunday 22 June Race Day Charity Revealed

Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge - Durban: Sunday 22 June - Race Day Charity Revealed

For the second year running, the Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge will be supporting Sinethemba Women’s Foundation based in Inanda.

This small organisation has five tiers that assist vulnerable women in their neighbourhood: supporting skills and business development, guiding women on a path towards a promising career, and two that align with SPAR’s values – ending Gender Based Violence and helping young women with menstrual hygiene.

Sinethemba was presented with a cheque of R100,000 after last year’s Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge with R5 from each entry being donated to their foundation. SPAR KZN will match that again this year.

‘We at Sinethemba Women’s Foundation gratefully acknowledge the R100,000 sponsorship provided by SPAR KZN to support our organisational mission of advancing the socio-economic empowerment of women in KwaZulu-Natal. A portion of these funds supported our 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) last year.’ said Snenhlanhla Mbatha, the foundation’s leader.

‘It is our firm belief that when you uplift a woman, you uplift the community she inhabits, as women are regularly agents for change. Sinethemba is passionate about all things to do with women, which is why our projects focus on promoting women’s health, eradicating gender-based violence and skills development in our area.’

With the entries capped at 12,000 this year, R5 from every entry will be donated to the Sinethemba Women’s Foundation. To find out more, visit www.sinethembawomensfoundation.com

To enter and be a part of this year’s SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge, visit www.sparwomensrace.co.za/durban/

Pictured: 250 hygiene packs were donated to Mvaba High School learners who attended the Ikusasalethu Career Guidance Programme, which included SPAR-branded sanitary towels, lotion and soap.

How Quantity Surveyors can help manage costs as global tariffs impact SA construction projects

The saying "When America sneezes, the world catches a cold” is relevant once again. In 2025, it illustrates how the sweeping US tariffs are being felt across the globe, even affecting the construction industry at the southern tip of Africa. “Although these are taxes on imports into the US, they have a ripple effect on local building costs as Chinese and other suppliers redirect their materials to markets without tariffs and disrupt our supply chains,” says Nolubabalo Tsolo, Executive Director of the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS).

Pushing up construction costs

Local buyers in South Africa are consequently facing material shortages, steep price increases, and longer lead times for essentials such as steel, aluminium, solar panels, and electrical components, says Tsolo. She explains that contractors are struggling to manage the rising costs and add risk premiums to tenders. This means that projects – from roads and bridges to schools and affordable housing – risk exceeding their budgets. In addition, currency fluctuations are making dollar-priced imports even more expensive. All this puts strain on both public and private projects, with affordability and delivery timelines being reassessed.

Behind the scenes

“Amidst this uncertainty, quantity surveyors (QS) play a crucial role in stabilising the construction sector and keeping costs under control,” says Tsolo. “We’re the only profession specialising in the finances of the construction industry – also referred to as ‘building accountants’ (Bou-rekenaare) in Afrikaans.”

The QS’s initial estimate of the project cost – including labour, material, time, and profit – is based on information from the architects, engineers and other industry specialists. “We look at the current market prices in construction, combined with historical data as well as statistical forecasts and construction and material price indices,” says Tsolo. Ideally, the estimate also includes reserves for contingencies and escalations to cover unforeseen risks and costs during the project.

However, Treasury currently doesn’t accept contingencies (typically 5% to 10% of project value) in the public sector, and QS have to formally request additional funds for unexpected costs. It’s meant to boost accountability, says Tsolo, but adds onerous of bureaucracy, which delay construction and drive costs even higher.

How to build resilience

The ASAQS suggests the following responses to the tariff-related challenges on SA’s construction sector:

Embrace dynamic pricing strategies:
Together with other industry bodies, the ASAQS is engaging with government departments for more flexible public sector procurement frameworks to address price volatility. But this requires regulatory clarity. “The Standard for Infrastructure Procurement and Delivery Management stated that no escalations and contingencies should be included in the contract price (clause 14.5.9),” says Tsolo. “However, when this regulation was replaced in 2019 with the Framework for Infrastructure Delivery and Procurement Management, it didn’t mention the escalations and contingencies.”

Focus on strengthening local supply chains:
The government has been encouraging local manufacturing, but it should use the US tariffs to actively help local producers of construction materials, for example through tax breaks and other incentives. This would reduce reliance on imports.

Train QS on integrating global economic indicators into cost planning
ASAQS members already benefit from evolving continuous professional improvement programmes and webinars that also tackle macro-economic topics. Other industry bodies and partners could add value to this.

“By building resilience, we intend to lessen global economic shocks on the local construction sector,” says Tsolo. “Quantity surveyors are central to this, ensuring that construction projects remain feasible, efficient, and financially sound, even in uncertain times.” It shows that while South Africa can’t stop America from sneezing, we can protect ourselves from catching a full-blown cold.

'Research has long revealed that there is a clear link between childhood abuse, neglect and exposure to violence, and the later violent and aggressive behaviour observed in some adults.

The way in which we respond to children who experience violence, neglect and abuse today will determine the level of violence we will experience in the future.

The Funda Nenja programme helps develop empathy and compassion through the medium of force- free dog training classes, and indirectly helps prevent youth from becoming involved in anti-social and violent behaviour. Classes are mostly taught by young people from the local community who act as good role-models to their peers.

Funda Nenja adopts a One Welfare approach to social change which benefits both the young people and their dogs which participate in the weekly dog training classes.

Please support our work. Our website has banking details etc for both local and international donors.' shared Funda Nenja.

SARB disappoints with measly 25 basis points cut

Recently, the South African Reserve Bank reduced the repo rate by 25 basis points but the real interest rate remains far too high to spur meaningful capital investment by South Africa’s private sector. While the news brings some welcome relief to property owners, it’s another disappointment for the country’s real economy.

This is according to Renier Kriek, Managing Director at Sentinel Homes. “The SARB has consistently preached that their policy bible contains only one chapter, titled ‘inflation targeting’, which requires sticking to within their 3–6% inflation target band and anchoring inflation expectations at the 4.5% midpoint,” he says. “Their messaging has consistently and unfailingly pledged that their mandate is the only consideration that guides their decisions.”

False policy
Yet, inflation has remained low over an extended period, currently sitting at 2.8%, leaving the opportunity for a softening of monetary policy wide open. Why then has the SARB stubbornly refused to reduce the interest rate accordingly, even as inflation hovers at or below the bottom of their target band?

Despite preaching vague and opaque ‘risks to the upside’ to justify their hawkishness in recent years, it’s clear that the SARB has been disingenuous – in short, they have been lying to us. That was made plain for the first time today, but it has long been evident there is a secret driver of their decisions.

“It was clear with the announcement that the SARB’s policy bible has contained a new chapter, which is their anticipated future mandate, and they have already been guided by that expanded gospel, despite the existence of the chapter having been secret and further despite the content of the chapter not having been agreed to with Treasury and other stakeholders,” says Kriek.

Why now?
The argument advanced by the Monetary Policy Committee, by way of Governor Kganyago’s statement and answers to questions during the press conference, is that the MPC wishes to deal a decisive blow to inflation in the long term, transforming the SA economy to a low(er) inflation economy. This will also mean lower interest rates for longer in future, per the MPC’s reasoning, since lower inflation economies generally tend to have lower inflation rates.

“However, the question is why do we want to do this now?” says Kriek. “Moving to a lower inflation target will likely have long-term positive consequences for the SA economy, but it will also involve near-dated discomfort. Essentially, the MPC is promising short-term pain for long-term gain.”

“The SA economy is a very frail patient at the moment and keeping interest rates at current high levels in order to achieve longer-term outcomes is a risky gambit. We should at least be asking, and this is as much about political calculation as economic policy, whether we should not attempt monetary stimulus first, getting the economy out of its bandages, and attempt the MPC’s incisive reforms once the patient is back on its feet.”

Impact of delinquency
The property sector has shown signs of broad-based recovery, with price lines across all the metros trending upwards in Stats SA’s latest Residential Property Price Index.

The cumulative 75 bps cuts, with a further cut at today’s meeting, have already had the effect of bringing previously pent-up demand spilling into the residential property market. However, while these are green shoots, the market is still under significant strain.

According to National Credit Regulator statistics, home loan delinquency is up 35% in the last 3 years, signifying the tremendous pressure households are experiencing related to their finances.

“This sharp increase in delinquency will come home to roost soon, as a sudden influx of distressed stock in the market is likely to drive prices down in the face of relatively tepid demand,” says Kriek.

A small window of opportunity
Households seeking to enter the market should not delay any further. The MPC found that a neutral policy should be 25 bps lower than the new repo rate of 7.25%, meaning we can expect at least one more cut in the near future.

So, it is more likely than not that the upwards momentum evidenced by the aforementioned green shoots will be sustained and expanded as the market adjusts to lower rates.

The decision at the next meeting will be led by the MPC’s insistence on pre-emptive management of monetary policy through its anticipated new mandate, and so the CPI inflation reports from now until the next meeting in July 2025 will have to be watched closely.

“It seems that if inflation inches higher even slightly, the MPC’s overly hawkish instincts will rule decision-making at the next meeting, favouring keeping rates steady despite low employment and flaccid economic growth,” says Kriek.

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) wishes to inform motorists of the full closure of the N3 between Cato Ridge and Dardanelles (Umlaas Road) interchange from Wednesday 18 June 2025 at 20:00 until Thursday, 19 June 205 at 04:30 am for luminance testing of the lighting.

“Construction of this portion of the N3 is nearing completion and testing the luminance levels of the newly installed lighting system is an important step in ensuring the quality of this system which will substantially improve safety for all users of the road,” said Jason Lowe, SANRAL’s KZN Provincial Specialist Geometrics Engineer.

SANRAL appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as it undertakes this vital project to
alleviate long term traffic congestion in the area.

The permanent road closure will take place as follows

N3 Full Carriageway Closure from Cato Ridge interchange to Dardanelles (Umlaas Road)
interchange
Traffic will be diverted via interchange off ramps (northbound – exit 53 Cato
Ridge/R103 and southbound - exit 61 R603/Umlaas Road) during these periods.
From 20:00 to 04:30 on Wednesday 18 June 2025
Should the testing on 18 June 2025 be affected by poor weather, it will instead take place on 19 June 2025 over the same time period.
As required for the safety of both road users and the construction team, full traffic accommodation plans will be in place. All road users are advised to plan their routes ahead of time and where possible leave for destinations earlier than usual. A detailed alternative route guide is included below

Closure Locations

N3 North Bound (Durban to Pietermaritzburg)
• N3 North Bound fully closed at the Cato Ridge offramp (exit 53 - Cato Ridge/R103). Traffic
will be diverted on the R103 and then back on to the N3 at Umlaas Road.

N3 South Bound (Pietermaritzburg to Durban)
• N3 South Bound fully closed at the Dardanelles (Umlaas Road) interchange (exit 61 - R603/Umlaas Road) and then back onto the N3 at Cato Ridge.

“We understand that these road closures cause major disruption so have planned them to take place at times when the disruption is minimised.

Trucks and heavy vehicles are advised to try and delay trips over this period or find suitable staging areas to avoid major congestion.

Public transport operators are asked to ensure their drivers are aware of route closures and alternatives affecting their commuter
routes” said, Lowe.

Being snug and comfortable feels good! Whether it's winter chills or wild wind, these nifty accessories are super useful to have around. Beanies add warmth on a cold day and when the wind is wild, Headbands add a little order to your look! Wear them twisted or flat, you choose!

Pricing June 2025: Beanies R180 and Headbands R115

Available in white/cream, tan, navy and black.

We look forward to welcoming you at Piggly Wiggly - Midlands

Find more MUSHKA magic online www.mushka.co.za

Have questions? WhatsApp Robyn on 082 858 9262.

This Father’s Day, we’ve got everything you need for a fun-filled day with Dad and the whole family!

From mini train rides and chocolate dipping, to imaginative play, zip line, climbing walls, and the jungle gym — the kids will be busy making memories with Dad that will last a lifetime!

And for the grown-ups?
Let Dad kick back with an ice-cold beer
Let Mom grab a coffee and enjoy some relaxed shopping (psst... why not pick up some goodies for a Father’s Day braai later?)

So pack your sense of adventure and join us for a day full of laughs, love, and unforgettable moments.

Piggly Wiggly – Where Family Time Comes to Life!

Eskom KZN Experiences Widespread Power Outages Following Heavy Rain, Winds and Snowfall

Eskom KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has reported multiple power outages across the province following a bout of severe weather, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and snowfall. The utility confirms that the adverse conditions have caused significant disruptions to the electricity supply in several regions.

Affected Areas
The areas currently impacted by outages include Empangeni, Melmoth, Inkosi Mtubatuba, Ulundi, Hluhluwe, Jozini, Nongoma, Eshowe, Bergville, Ladysmith, Ingagane, Paulpietersburg, Ixopo, Kokstad, Cedarville, Franklin, Umzimkhulu, Bulwer, Lamington, Harding, Ingeli, Paddock, Edendale, and Riverdale.

Restoration Efforts Underway
Eskom has deployed technical teams to attend to faults in accessible areas. However, the utility notes that many roads remain closed due to flooding and snow, making access to some affected zones impossible at this time. Technicians remain on standby and will attend to these areas as soon as they become reachable.

We understand the inconvenience and frustration this situation causes and appeal to our customers for patience and understanding as we work to restore power safely and as quickly as possible.

Safety First
Eskom has issued a strong warning to the public to treat all electrical infrastructure as live. Residents are urged to stay clear of fallen cables, damaged poles, or any exposed wiring, and to report such hazards immediately to local authorities or via Eskom’s reporting channels.
• MyEskom Customer App: available for download on Google Play and Apple Store:
• Alfred the Chatbot: https://alfred.eskom.co.za/chatroom/
• USSD platform: Simply dial *120*37566# on your phone and follow the prompts.
• Eskom Contact Centre: Dial 08600 ESKOM (37566).

NEW: Alfred is now available on WhatsApp! Save the Eskom Share Call number 08600 37566 to your phone, open WhatsApp, and start chatting with Alfred. Whether you need help with your electricity supply or have account-related queries, Alfred is ready to assist you instantly.

Africa’s well-known explorers Kingsley and Ross Holgate and their veteran expedition team are at it again; this time on a humanitarian journey to Mozambique with a major focus on malaria prevention in communities surrounding the greater Gorongosa National Park.

Less than a year after completing the gruelling 62,000-kilometre, ‘Afrika Odyssey’ expedition that explored 22 of the most remote wildlife regions on the continent and reached as far as the Ennedi Massif in the northern Sahara Desert regions of Chad, the Holgate expedition team is turning its attention closer to home.

According to the World Health Organisation’s most recent Malaria Report, global malaria cases grew by 11 million in 2023 compared to the previous year, with 263 million reported cases. Of the 597,000 malaria deaths recorded in 2023, 95% remain concentrated in African countries. 75% of those occurred among children under five, including Mozambique, where malaria remains endemic.

“In 2012, we first visited Gorongosa National Park in central Mozambique to celebrate the end of our Great African Rift Valley expedition, by symbolically emptying the calabash of seawater we had carried all the way from the Gulf of Tadjora on Djibouti’s Red Sea coast into Gorongosa’s Lake Urema, which marks the southerly point of the Great African Rift Valley,” said Kingsley Holgate.

“It was on that journey that we first learned of the success story of Gorongosa National Park, and how it was being brought back to life after the Mozambique Civil War by a remarkable team, headed by philanthropist Greg Carr, to become an African miracle of nature’s ability to survive.”

“In 2019, we journeyed to Gorongosa again, this time on a mercy mission to support communities around the Park after the destruction of Cyclone Idai. Malaria and cholera cases had reached frightening levels due to the floodwaters that had swept away homesteads and crops and left thousands of people destitute and vulnerable to disease.”

“It is now time to return and augment the Park’s existing community health care programmes with malaria prevention support for women and children. We’ll also provide eye tests and reading glasses to poor-sighted, mostly elderly people living in this remote region of central Mozambique, and introduce the educational Wildlife Art campaign to schools and Girls Clubs on the boundaries of the Park. This vibrant, youth-focussed programme has, in the past 12 years, reached around 700,000 children across Africa and beyond; it will be the first time that children in Mozambique can participate.”

Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique is one of Africa’s greatest wildlife restoration stories. It was officially declared a national park by the Portuguese authorities in 1960, and hunting was banned. Improvements were made to trails, roads and buildings, and the Park became known as ‘Africa’s Garden of Eden’, internationally acclaimed for its diverse wildlife, including large herds of elephant, buffalo, hippos, zebras and wildebeest. It became a popular choice for celebrities in the 1960s and 1970s; among those who visited were Hollywood actors John Wayne, Joan Crawford and Gregory Peck, astronaut James Lovell, and renowned biologist EO Wilson.

But the Mozambican Civil War (1977 – 1992) severely impacted Gorongosa, with battles fought within the Park and its surrounding areas. The conflict led to the Park’s closure in 1983, with widespread destruction of infrastructure and a massive decline in wildlife populations. Hundreds of elephants were poached for their ivory, and many other animals were hunted for food, or died due to the war's impact.

In 2008, the Government of Mozambique and US philanthropist Greg Carr formed the ‘Gorongosa Restoration Project’, a 20-year Public-Private Partnership for the joint management of the Park and for human development in neighbouring communities. It was such a resounding success that in 2018, the Government of Mozambique renewed the management agreement of Gorongosa National Park for another 25 years.

For over 25 years, Land Rover and particularly the Defender model, have been the vehicle of choice for all Holgate geographic and humanitarian expeditions. This Greater Gorongosa Expedition is no different; alongside the two new-generation Defender 130s, four other heritage Defenders will be part of the convoy, each with their own unique histories of travel and adventure in Africa, and all loaded to the hilt with humanitarian and educational resources for the communities surrounding Gorongosa National Park in this new journey of purpose.

“This expedition will be an incredible blend of heritage between the old and new, both having achieved geographical world firsts. From a circumnavigation of the African continent and then the discovery for the world of the ‘Heart of Africa’ (geographical centre point) – to a 30-country expedition from the southern tip of Africa to the most northern point of Europe at Nordkapp in Norway’s Arctic circle,” explained expedition leader Ross Holgate.

“Whilst the new-generation Defender is more capable with its incredible technology and comfort, we must still salute those older models that got us there in the first place. Defender is an iconic brand that not only stands for a combination of history, capability and durability but also promotes a legacy of purpose into the future.”

“This is our 42nd expedition,” Ross continued. “The two new-generation Defender 130s leading this Greater Gorongosa Expedition are the same ones that completed the gruelling 62,000-kilometre Afrika Odyssey expedition in 2023/2024, conquering some of the harshest terrain and weather conditions we’ve ever experienced in all our years of travel and adventure in Africa.”

“We expect Mozambique to throw its own set of challenges. Late summer rainfall means that parts of Gorongosa National Park’s 4,000-square-kilometres are still waterlogged, plus our route through little-explored conservation areas all the way to the Zambezi River is likely to be a demanding 4x4 adventure.”

The Greater Gorongosa Expedition departs from South Africa in early June after a vibrant send-off from the Koru Environmental Kids Camp near Hoedspruit, where 800 children living near the Greater Kruger Conservation Area are participating in the expedition’s educational Wildlife Art campaign.

In addition, the expedition is facilitating the delivery of 250 pairs of rugged Jim Green boots for the rangers of Gorongosa National Park, as part of the ‘Boots For Rangers’ initiative.

Alongside the symbolic African calabash that has accompanied every Holgate geographic and humanitarian expedition for 20 years, a unique Gorongosa Scroll of Peace and Goodwill will collect messages of support from traditional leaders, local community beneficiaries, park rangers, conservation partners, government envoys and other supporters met along the Greater Gorongosa Expedition’s route.

To stay connected with the Greater Gorongosa Expedition’s progress, follow the Kingsley Holgate Foundation or Gorongosa National Park on social media.

Pictured here: Richard Mabanga, long time friend and KHF expedition partner with Kingsley Holgate check out the route map on a lead Defender at the start of the greater Gorongosa National Park Expedition.

ALDO BERRUTI - Well-known Ornithologist and Bird Guide will be presenting a short Raptor Identification Course in Howick.

Please contact Peter or Anita Divall on Cell: 083 263 4169 or email:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

It’s every event planner and conference organiser’s nightmare. The WiFi drops. The keynote speaker gets stuck in traffic. A pipe bursts mid-session. The fire alarm triggers just as the CFO takes the mic. And yet, somehow, the show must go on.

Even the best-planned events can go sideways. From technical failure to a no-show speaker, things can (and do!) go wrong. But with the right preparation and partners, these moments don’t need to derail your entire conference.

Onwaba Gonyora, Director at 5-star destination, Brahman Hills, brings decades of experience in planning events and weddings, managing conferences, retreats and corporate gatherings. She believes that resilience is often the secret ingredient behind the most memorable experiences.

She says, “Things won’t always go according to plan, but it’s how you respond that defines the experience. The best conferences aren’t perfect; they’re personal, adaptable, and anchored in purpose. That’s what people remember.”

So, what do you do when things threaten to go pear-shaped on a day when all eyes are on you to ensure that everything runs seamlessly, the executives’ expectations are exceeded, and not a single detail is missed?

Gonyora shares her top tips for crisis-proofing any event:

1. Plan for the Unplanned

Start every event plan with a session focused solely on what could go wrong. Whether it’s a power outage, unexpected traffic, or a last-minute cancellation, having contingency measures in place like a second router, a backup speaker, printed agendas and cue cards, or an extra mic ensures you’re not caught off guard.

2. Choose Solution-Oriented Partners

The vendors and venues you work with make a significant difference when the unexpected happens. A solutions-focused team won’t just notify you of a problem, they’ll immediately offer solutions. Look for partners who have proven themselves to be calm under pressure and focused on finding workarounds, not excuses. At Brahman Hills, this mindset is part of the culture. “Where You're Everything” isn’t just a tagline - it’s a service philosophy that shows up in how challenges are handled.

3. Multiple Spaces Give You Options

If something happens in your primary space, like a power failure or an unexpected leak in the roof, having immediate access to alternate venues on-site is invaluable. Venues with multiple rooms, varied layouts and usable outdoor areas provide the flexibility to reroute your programme quickly and smoothly. Brahman Hills, for example, offers this kind of peace of mind. With two fully equipped conference venues, expansive international award-winning gardens ideal for breakout sessions or outdoor lunches, and even a private obstacle course for active teambuilding or last-minute agenda changes, planners have options. And options are the ultimate backup plan.

4. Rehearse the Response

Go beyond rehearsing the programme, although that’s crucial as well (too many events skip a proper dry run, and it shows). Review the identified potential disruptions and define how your team will respond. Who will move guests to another location? Where is the other location? Who handles communications with the speakers? Who liaises with the venue? Deciding these roles in advance reduces chaos in the moment.

5. Guest Experience Comes First

Regardless of what went wrong, guests will remember how the situation made them feel. Handled well, a disruption can become the most memorable part of the experience, for all the right reasons. A smooth, thoughtful response with clear communication, warm service, and fast action doesn’t just fix the issue; it can become a stand-out moment.

6. Flexible Design, Not Last-Minute Scrambling

Build flexibility into your event from the start. Avoid rigid formats that leave no room to manoeuvre. Timelines, room setups, session structures and team roles should all be designed with adaptability in mind. At venues like Brahman Hills, where nature, space and a responsive team come standard, flexibility is part of the experience, not an emergency solution.

“In events and conferencing, perfection is rare, but with preparation, professionalism, the right partners, and mindset, you don’t have to just survive curved balls. You use them to create a positive impression and build a reputation for delivering excellence, no matter what,” Gonyora concludes.

White T-Shirt Yarn Available – R10 a Ball!

Calling all crafters, crocheters, and creators! We’ve got loads of white t-shirt yarn available and it’s going at just R10 per ball!
Perfect for:
Macramé
Baskets
Rugs
All your creative projects!

To get yours, contact the Sunfield office and ask for Kamani on ‪+27 33 330 2094‬.

Get crafty while supporting a good cause!

The 27th annual JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience, hosted by UKZN’s Centre for Creative Arts, has announced that it will honour South African dance-maker and teacher Sbonakaliso (or Sbo as she likes to be called) Ndaba as the 2025 JOMBA! Legacy Artist.

Born and raised in Durban, KZN, Sbonakaliso Ndaba received her primary dance training at Jazzart Dance Theatre in Cape Town under the direction of Alfred Hinkel. Over the course of her long and illustrious career, she has had the privilege of dancing and choreographing for a great many South African companies including Jazzart Dance Theatre, Moving into Dance, Vuyani Dance Theatre and Tshwane Dance Theatre in Johannesburg, Phenduka Dance Theatre, FLATFOOT Dance Company and Fantastic Flying Fish Dance Company in Durban. International companies she has worked with include Southern Edge Art and Barking Gecko in Australia, Lina's Dance Production in Denmark, and Introdans in the Netherlands.

Also deeply significant to the JOMBA! Legacy award is her lifelong commitment to initiating many performance training initiatives including Phenduka Dance Theatre, Indoni Dance Arts Academy and recently SboNdaba Dance, a non-profit company dedicated to strengthening the performing arts in Cape Town. JOMBA!’s artistic director Dr Lliane Loots says, “Sbo’s long term impact on training professional contemporary dancers and the legacy of this is felt throughout South Africa and we are deeply humbled that we get to honour her and her work in this way”.

Recognised as one of South Africa’s leading African Contemporary choreographers, Ndaba has won a number of awards, including Best Choreographer from Daimler Chrysler SA 2002/3, and the Western Cape Cultural Affairs Award for Best Contribution to Performance: Dance 2016

Her dance company, SboNdaba Dance (which formed in 2021) focusses on not just delivering excellence in performance but on creating employment by building professional capacity and platforms for the under-developed performing arts industry in Cape Town, and, more specifically, creating opportunities for the under-resourced performing artists of the Western Cape townships.

Loots says, “The JOMBA! festival’s 2025 overall curatorial theme and provocation is “Moving Border/Lands” and we can think of no other South African artist who has exemplified this moving across physical, economic and access borders in her dance work, whether this has been training and teaching, or choreography. We are also delegated to honour Sbo back in her home city!”

Sbo and SboNdaba Dance will offer a rich programme of new works on the opening two nights of the festival, and will then travel onto JOMBA! @ the Market Theatre in Johannesburg.

JOMBA! takes place at The Sneddon Theatre in Durban from 26 August to 7 September, and the satellite festival takes place at The Market Theatre in Johannesburg from 10 to 13 September 2054.

For more information go to www.jomba.ac.za.

Photo credit: Val Adamson