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From beds to DSTV setups, appliances and more – we've got you covered from start to finish. Hassle-free service with a smile!
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We're your local one-stop shop for all things home and workshop!
Pop in: 38 Main Street, Howick as well as Rycroft Building, Howick for beds and seconds.Howick
Call us: 033 330 4330
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Carli Antonopoulos was covering up to 90km a week in training in the build-up to last year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile.
Having finished second in the elite women’s race in 2024, she was determined to go one better in 2025 before disaster struck. The Pretoria-based swimmer slipped while climbing into the boat to take her across the dam to the start for one of her warm-up swims and broke her arm.
That brought a lengthy halt to her training programme. “From the 8th of February until the beginning of May, I was basically out,” explained Antonopoulos.
“I was out the water for three weeks, and then the fourth week I was back in the water with my cast and everything. Then the cast came off because I lost too much muscle in my arm, but then I got a little mouldable brace thing. So that was quite good. But I had that on for another eight weeks after, so officially got cleared at the beginning of May.”
Since then, the 24-year-old has been playing catch-up, but, having won the final aQuellé Midmar Mile seeding swim, she can’t wait to get back to the famous KwaZulu-Natal dam for this year’s event which runs from 5-8 February.
“I feel like I need to redeem myself a little bit after falling last year, but I am very excited,” she reckoned. “Anything can happen on the day. So, I'm just excited to be there on the start line with all my friends, race hard, race fast… just see how it goes.”
Antonopoulos is currently being coached by former national champion Gary Albertyn, who achieved the incredible milestone of completing 200 aQuellé Midmar Mile swims in 2025, having only started swimming the race in 2012.
“It's very inspirational because obviously Gary has done so much and he's got a lot of experience,” she explained. “So, that's quite nice going into Midmar. He is able to help us out and give us some tips and tricks for the day, so that’s quite exciting.”
Having also missed last year’s SA National Open Water Championship because of the broken arm, Antonopoulos is looking forward to a return to that event as well – with plenty of mileage under her belt. But there’s also been a fair amount of speedwork in the mix.
“We've mostly been focused on open water champs, so mostly the 10km and the 5km,” she said. “But with Gary becoming our coach now, we've done a lot of speedwork as well. I guess that has helped the 1.2km, and the 1.6 for Midmar, so I think we've got the endurance, but we've also built up the speed. In previous years we didn't necessarily always have so much speed.”
That could make all the difference come race day on 8 February.
Online entries for the aQuellé Midmar Mile are open for a few more days, until 25 January. Those still wishing to enter should head to www.midmarmile.com for all the information.
Photo credit: Action Photo SA
Healthy hearing vs hearing loss…how do you know?
In short, healthy hearing means easily understanding speech in various environments, reacting appropriately to sounds, and not needing to turn up volume ON TV’s or radios constantly.
If you don’t tick all the boxes above, you may have a degree of hearing loss. And if that’s the case, it’s time to make an appointment with Butlin Hearing for a FREE hearing screening or a comprehensive hearing test and, if needed, let us assist you in choosing a hearing device that best suits your needs.
Contact Claire in our Howick office 033 330 3966 or Mark in our Pietermaritzburg office on 033 342 2330 and let Butlin Hearing welcome you to the world of sound!
Every February, thousands of swimmers take to the water at Midmar Dam in KwaZulu-Natal, but for those taking part in the aQuellé Midmar Mile Charity Challenge, every stroke carries extra meaning.
Since its launch in 2016, the Challenge has raised over R22 million rand for charities across South Africa. And this year, the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) is joining the cause as one of the official charities.
For Paralympian-turned-community champion Adri Visser, the partnership feels like coming full circle. “When I retired as a Paralympic swimmer in 2016, I wasn't sure if I would be swimming Midmar again. And then I just felt like I really wanted to do it recreationally for 2025.
“I started training for it and I really enjoyed it, and I got to connect with [race director] Wayne Riddin again and it was just so nice to be back in the community that I was a part of for 16 years,” explained Visser, who was born with no hands and only one leg but went on to set six African records in the pool.
Visser, who works at the NCPD, immediately wanted to get involved beyond just swimming across the dam. “Midmar is a big supporter of disability swimming… we had a nice chat, and Wayne agreed to make NCPD a charity for 2026 and going forward.”
Four swimmers will be raising funds for the NCPD during the Charity Challenge, which takes place over two days, from 5-6 February, before the main races are contested on 7-8 February. Among them is Riddin himself, who will take on the 8-mile Challenge while part of the funds being raised by Sydney Olympic medallist Terence Parkin and Reino von Wielligh (who are tackling a gruelling 32km over the weekend) will also be added to the cause.
Also among those swimmers is one of the youngest to take on the 8-Mile Challenge, 14-year-old Connor Crutchley. “He had head surgery just when he was born. So he knows what it's like to almost have a disability that could affect the rest of your life. But he's recuperating, and he's doing it because it’s a good cause towards his life story as well,” said Visser.
For the NCPD, apart from raising vital funds, the partnership is also about visibility, advocacy, and giving people with disabilities a voice. As Visser puts it: “It makes you realise that your work is not just the work, it's passion, it’s about giving back to the community and giving a voice for a person with a disability, a voice they don't have themselves.”
With millions already raised through the aQuellé Midmar Mile Charity Challenge over the years, the NCPD’s inclusion promises to add even more heart to the world’s largest open-water swimming event.
“I'm hoping that it will grow more than what it is now. My heart is set on more than 20 swimmers [raising money] for 2027... I think just to see a little bit of growth would be amazing,” said Visser.
Online entries for the aQuellé Midmar Mile are still open for a few more days. Those wishing to take part should head to www.midmarmile.com.
Pictured above: Adri Visser at 2025 aQuelle Midmar Mile - Credit ActionPhotoSA
Did you know? KSS and every member of our team are fully PSIRA registered and compliant.
The Importance of Being PSIRA Registered
Registering with PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority) is a legal requirement for any security provider in South Africa, it ensures legality, professionalism and accountability. PSIRA registration confirms that a security company and its personnel meet the required legal standards to operate.
PSIRA registration:
Ensures compliance with South African law
Confirms proper training and competency of security officers
Promotes ethical conduct and professionalism
Protects clients from unqualified or illegal operators
Holds security providers accountable through regulation and oversight
Choosing a PSIRA registered company means choosing a service that is trusted, regulated, and committed to maintaining high industry standards and public safety.
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Local 24/7 Control Room: 033 330 5911
Johannesburg swimmer Mayuri Bhowan will mark a major milestone at the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile as she aims to cross the finish line for the 20th time.
It’s a journey that began as a 12-year-old in 1995 and has now become a family tradition spanning generations. Beside her will be her 14-year-old daughter, Kiara Naidoo, who is targeting her fifth crossing of the famous KwaZulu-Natal dam.
For Bhowan, the aQuellé Midmar Mile, which this year takes place from 5-8 February, has always been about more than just swimming. “My parents played a huge role in inspiring me to swim my very first Midmar Mile in 1995. They saw potential and drive in me, and I just needed that extra nudge. I already loved swimming, especially long-distance swims, so the idea of swimming the Midmar Mile excited me,” she recalls.
“Completing that first race gave me an incredible sense of accomplishment. I was instantly hooked. For the first time after trying many extracurricular activities, I realised that swimming was the one thing that brought me the most joy.”
Over the years, the Midmar Mile became a weekend the family looked forward to. “I simply loved it. My parents always went the extra mile to make sure I could be there, and that support meant everything. It also became a special family weekend away, which added to the magic... Those weekends, the travel, the preparation, and the family time became just as special as the race itself and are a big reason why Midmar has always held such a special place in my heart.
“Those memories, combined with the atmosphere and sense of achievement, kept pulling me back year after year.”
Now, that tradition continues with Bhowan’s daughter, Kiara. “I saw the same drive and motivation in my daughter. She’s very much a mini‑me. She started swimming competitively at the age of nine.”
Describing their first Midmar swim together in 2022, Bhowan reckoned: “It was completely surreal. I felt an overwhelming sense of pride swimming alongside her.
“It means the world to me. After narrowly pipping her in our first Midmar swim together, she now beats me by a large margin, and she’s performing even better than I did at her age.”
Since then, Kiara has completed the aQuellé Midmar Miles four times and is now aiming for her fifth, while Bhowan prepares for her 20th. “Completing 20 Midmar Mile swims would be a huge personal milestone for me. It means 20 family gatherings, 20 years of smiles and 20 years of family bonding. To be doing it alongside my daughter, who will be swimming her fifth mile, makes it even more meaningful as she, too loves the family time together.”
The family’s Midmar tradition extends beyond the water. Their pre-race ritual includes a short getaway in the Drakensberg, filled with hearty meals, cricket matches, stretching sessions, and plenty of quality time together. And on race day, the banks of the dam are lined with generations of supporters – Bhowan’s parents, her brother Amit (himself a 10-time Midmar finisher), her husband, and her son.
“My parents have never missed a single race even after I got married, so having my lifelong supporters still by our side is very special to both my daughter and I.”
Those still hoping to experience some of that magic of the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile can still enter online at www.midmarmile.com
Pictured here: Kiara Naidoo and mom Mayuri Bhowan in 2025
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier
The Class of 2025 has much to celebrate after achieving an outstanding 100% Matric pass rate. This exceptional result stands as a true reflection of the learners’ hard work, perseverance, and unwavering commitment throughout their academic journey.
Despite facing challenges, long hours of study, and moments of uncertainty, the Class of 2025 remained focused, determined, and faithful. Their dedication has been rewarded with results that reflect both academic excellence and personal growth.
The school is proud to report a total of 64 distinctions, along with an impressive 83.3% Bachelor’s Degree pass rate. In addition, learner performance exceeded the IEB national average in three subjects: Afrikaans First Additional Language, isiZulu First Additional Language, and Physical Science — a significant achievement that highlights the strength of teaching and learning across key disciplines.
As these learners step into the next chapter of their lives, they do so equipped with strong values, meaningful lessons, and a solid educational foundation. Education is an adventure, and the journey ahead promises new opportunities for growth, learning, and success. With faith as their guide, the Class of 2025 is encouraged to move forward with confidence, courage, and gratitude, knowing that with God, all things are possible.
The school extends sincere appreciation and gratitude to its dedicated teachers, whose unwavering support, guidance, and commitment played a vital role in this remarkable achievement. Their passion and perseverance continue to shape future leaders and lifelong learners.
For further information please visit www.treverton.co.za
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is grappling with a severe and persistent Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak that has been described as part of the "worst livestock farming disaster" in South African history.
Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a severe, highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, deer, giraffes, llamas, alpacas, water buffalo and other cloven-hoofed ruminants. Ruminants are herbivorous mammals, which have specialized, multi-chambered stomachs that allow them to digest tough, fibrous plants. It’s a transboundary animal disease (TAD) which spreads rapidly. Animals can be infected by contaminated farming equipment, vehicles, clothing, and feed, and by domestic and wild predators. It is extremely difficult to contain and eradicate. Accepted methods include vaccination, strict monitoring, trade restrictions, quarantines, and the culling of both infected and healthy (uninfected) animals
𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘂𝘀 (𝗝𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲)
• Epicentre: KZN remains the hardest-hit province, with over 180 unresolved outbreaks as of late 2025 and 2026.
𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁
• Dairy Crisis: KZN’s dairy sector produces roughly 30% of the nation's milk. Outbreak is threatening national food security.
Note on Human Health: FMD in livestock is not the same as Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in humans. FMD does not pose a threat to human health. Meat from restricted areas remains safe for consumption if processed at designated abattoirs.
Farmers have set up spraying points at the entry points into our town, and we urge everyone to do their part and get their vehicles sprayed.
There are spray points at the Curry's Post / Karkloof turnoff and at TWK.
*Source of some copy unknown but acknowledged with thanks
For adoptions and other queries call uMngeni SPCA on 033 330 4557 during office hours or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
For VET bookings call us on 064 671 8646 during office hours to book your pets' appointment. All welcome!
For animal emergencies please call 082 567 8297
French star Damien Joly will be joining the thousands of swimmers taking on the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile set for Midmar Dam in KwaZulu‑Natal from 5-8 February.
The three-time Olympian and Olympic finalist has confirmed his participation, adding international prestige to a race already renowned for its mix of elite competition and mass participation.
“The Midmar Mile is a very well-known race in South Africa, and I was happy to be invited to take part. It’s a great opportunity to race in a different environment, experience a new competition format, and enjoy a strong and passionate swimming community,” Joly said.
The aQuelllé Midmar Mile attracts thousands of swimmers every year, ranging from first-time entrants to seasoned professionals, and Joly said he had heard much about the unique atmosphere that surrounds the event. “I’ve heard that it’s much more than just a race,” he explained. “The crowd, the energy around the dam, and the number of participants make it very special. It’s also known for being extremely competitive at the front while remaining very inclusive, which is quite unique.”
Joly is no stranger to South Africa, having previously trained in Johannesburg and Pretoria. “I also had the opportunity to visit the country and go on safari, which were incredible experiences. It’s a beautiful country, and everything went really well during my time there,” he recalled.
Apart from representing his country at three Olympic Games, the 33-year-old Frenchman’s career highlights include claiming a silver medal at the 2022 World Short Course Championships and a European Championships bronze, both in the 1500m freestyle, while also holding the French national record in the event.
Looking ahead to February’s race, Joly is motivated by the chance to compete against a strong line-up. “I’m really looking forward to racing in such a legendary event and feeling that atmosphere first-hand. Competing against strong international swimmers in an open water setting like Midmar is something I’m very motivated by,” he said.
When asked about his chances of pulling off a victory, Joly reckoned: “I always approach races with confidence in my preparation, but also with a lot of respect for my competitors. Open water racing can be unpredictable, so the focus is on executing a smart race and giving my best on the day.”
While the battle out in front will be a heated one, for Joly, the inclusivity of the aQuellé Midmar Mile is part of its magic. “That’s one of the things that makes Midmar so special. To share the same start line with first‑timers, passionate amateurs, and elite athletes is a reminder of why we swim in the first place: for the love of the sport and the challenge it brings.”
Beyond competition, Joly also views the event as an opportunity for growth. “I hope to gain experience, memories, and inspiration. Racing at Midmar is also an opportunity to step out of my usual competitive environment and grow as an athlete and as a person.”
Entries for the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile are still open. Those wishing to take part should head to www.midmarmile.com
What inspired you to become a real estate agent?
I have always had a strong interest in property, and before selling my restaurant at Howick Falls, I registered as a real estate agent. Growing up in the Midlands allowed me to build strong relationships with local people and farmers throughout the area.
How long have you been a real estate agent?
Since 2008.
What locations or regions do your property listings cover?
All of the KZN Midlands, but mostly Howick and its outlying areas.
What specific property market do you specialise in, and what drew you to this particular type of real estate?
I specialise in the residential rental market, as well as commercial leasing. At the outset of my estate agency career, I visited farmers who were interested in selling, and I was often asked if I could find a tenant for a cottage on their farm. That is how I began working in the rental side of real estate.
Which type of property do you most enjoy listing—lifestyle, freestanding homes, complexes, anything residential —and why?
I enjoy listing all types of rental properties, particularly those that are already well maintained and presented. Properties that require some improvement also present a rewarding challenge, as I enjoy helping owners prepare them for the rental market.
What makes your service stand out from other agents?
With many years of experience in the rental market, I stay up to date with constantly changing regulations. I focus on building strong relationships with both landlords and tenants, ensuring landlords have a reliable and trustworthy agent to care for their property, while tenants can be confident that their rental home will be well maintained.
For those looking to get in touch, what is the most efficient way to reach you? Also, are you available for urgent messages during evenings and weekends?
The best way to contact me is via cellphone. If I am unable to answer right away due to being with a client, a WhatsApp message is preferred. I am available on weekends for calls or WhatsApp messages, although I do not take calls after 6:00 pm on weekends. WhatsApp messages are always welcome.
Let’s find the perfect rental solution for you. I specialize in aligning the interests of owners and tenants to create lasting value. With years of top-tier expertise, I am happy to assist with any real estate inquiries you may have. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Contact Pippa Griffin:
Mobile & WhatsApp: 083 467 8140
Sincere appreciation to our sponsors J Leslie Smith and Co and Oakleigh Funeral Home for sponsoring the prizes for UWBC’s first competition for 2026.
The weather was perfect for bowling for , with a good turnout. Thank you to ALL participants which includes those from our local bowling clubs.
Congratulations to our winners : Ed and Alan (Top image)
Second Prize : Margie and Graham (Second image)
Third Prize : Steph and Sharon
Plate Prize : Fred and Mike
We welcome new players to UWBC. “Tabs in “ times are Tuesday mornings 8 for 8:30 Wednesday afternoons 1 for 1:30 and Saturdays 1: for 1:30.
Forthcoming Sponsored event:
REDCLIFFE FARMING SPONSOR
Please save the date - 17 February 2026.
Contact Ann for further information at 071 676 5591
Today marks the official start of our academic year, and it feels especially fitting and we are delighted to share a special message from Win de Wet, who is serving as Acting Rector until our new Rector, Bart Wielenga, arrives at Michaelhouse in July.
Win has been an integral part of Michaelhouse since 2002, most recently as Deputy Rector Academics, and now steps into this role with deep knowledge of Michaelhouse and its traditions.
Her appointment marks a historic moment as Michaelhouse’s first female rector, supported by a strong leadership and staff team. While we don’t make too much of titles, we do celebrate the dedication, experience, and steady guidance that will carry our boys forward in the months ahead.
INSTALLATION DAY
Our client, based in Howick contacted HPS Solar for assistance with his constant grid failures and high electricity bills.
We completed a consumption assessment and proposed a customised solution for his home.
Needless to say, our client no longer has grid interruption or high electricity bills. Proud to convert another client to a greener, self-sustainable life.
Happy client - happy team HPS Solar
Contact us if you are ready to go green and live a life with no interruptions and high electricity bills.
Construction of the 22-hectare Serenity Gardens, which includes a world-record labyrinth and a series of immersive garden experiences, is well underway and set to redefine the Midlands landscape. Alongside this landmark project, Brahman Hills is also launching the next phase in its journey of refinement and elevation: the introduction of 5-star Premium Signature Villas.
Four of the estate’s most cherished villas — Oribi , Duiker, Eland and Wildebeest – are currently undergoing comprehensive refurbishments. Each is being carefully reimagined to reflect a higher standard of luxury, intimacy, and personalised care, while remaining deeply connected to the natural environment that defines Brahman Hills. According to Orrin Cottle, CEO of Brahman Hills, the project is a natural extension of the property’s long-term vision to deliver world-class experiences grounded in serenity, wellness, and excellence.
“At Brahman Hills, we do not pursue luxury for luxury sake,” says Cottle. “We pursue meaning, intention, and care. These Premium Signature Villas are being created as true sanctuaries; spaces where thoughtful design, natural textures, and elevated comfort come together to allow guests to rest deeply, reconnect, and leave transformed.”
Each 5-star Premium Signature Villa will offer generous interiors, world-class finishes, and uninterrupted views that draw the outdoors into the living experience, really showcasing Brahman Hills’ commitment to harmony with nature and attention to detail at every touchpoint.
The Signature Villas will sit at the pinnacle of the Brahman Hills experience, offering a curated range of included and optional experiences, thoughtfully designed to anticipate guest needs and create a seamless, deeply personal stay.
Included experiences may feature:
Dedicated butler service
Private chef for in-villa dining (available by arrangement)
Daily breakfast with speciality coffees and fresh juices
Thoughtful guest gifting
A complimentary bottle of Moët
Selected beer, cider, and soft drinks
A spa experience for each couple
Exclusive access to the Serenity Gardens (once completed)
Cottle adds, “When we say that Brahman Hills is a Sanctuary of Serenity, Wellness and Excellence it is more than a promise, it is a responsibility we carry in every guest experience.”
He says that Brahman Hills has never aspired to be ordinary, and never will. “We believe that to truly stand apart - in the Midlands, in KwaZulu-Natal, and in South Africa - one must be brave enough to think long-term and act with intention. When we elevate Brahman Hills, we elevate the region. When we raise standards, tourism rises with us. Our guests benefit, our communities benefit, and South Africa benefits.”
“This is not about scale. It is about legacy. It is about building something meaningful that will continue shifting lives today, tomorrow, and for generations to come,” he concludes.
To follow the Brahman Hills journey and witness this next chapter unfold, visit: https://www.brahmanhills.co.za/stories/an-extraordinary-world-class-sanctuary---launching-2026
When Funda Nenja reopens on Friday afternoon we anticipate a large number of Mpophomeni residents bringing their dogs to our primary veterinary care clinic as this service has been unavailable over the festive season break.
This weekly clinic is run by the wonderful Dr Dani who attends to an average of 50 dogs from the local community every Friday. Free rabies vaccination is given while deworming, parasite control and the 5 in1 vaccine is also available. In addition, minor ailments are also treated. More serious cases are taken for treatment to Midlands Veterinary Hospital who generously give us discounted rates and some cases are referred to the uMngeni SPCA clinic.
The Funda Nenja clinic has played a big role in improving the quality of life for Mpophomeni dogs as it is the only service provider in the township. Without this facility many dogs would suffer or die due to a lack of ready access to veterinary care. Currently the makeshift clinic operates in the change room of the Mpophomeni Sports Stadium, but our dream is to one day have our own building with proper facilities so we can better support the township animals.
Healthy dogs make for a healthy community and the general wellbeing of all.
Big John Clothing | A KZN Midlands Tradition
We stock simple, comfortable, and hard-working clothing and accessories for the whole family and corporates too!
Remember, we can courier countrywide.
Drop in to say "Hi"!
*Prices valid January 2026
Call on 033 330 4129
WhatsApp queries & orders on 063 157 0190
Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
View our website https://bigjohn.co.za/
Visit at 40 Main Street Howick
For over two decades, Reino von Wielligh has been a familiar face at the aQuellé Midmar Mile, the world’s largest open-water swimming event.
But in 2026, the Pretoria swimmer will take on his most ambitious challenge yet – swimming 32 miles during the 5-8 February event as part of the Midmar Mile Charity Challenge.
Since 2016, the aQuellé Midmar Mile has raised over R22 million for a variety of charitable causes.
“2026 marks my 21st consecutive year swimming at the Midmar Mile and my ninth year that I will be doing 16 miles for charity,” he explained. “I always come back to the Midmar Mile year after year, not just because of the amazing work that Midmar does to support charities, but because of the camaraderie between swimmers…
“For me it’s to see everyone reach their personal goal and smile once they complete the mile, whether it’s your 100th or first, the feeling of joy and accomplishment is shared among all swimmers.”
This year, Von Wielligh is doubling his usual distance. “The 32 miles has been an idea over the last two years as I want to create even greater awareness for [children’s cancer charity] Happy Bundles. I have decided to take on the 32 miles in 2026 as I am 32 years old…
“My inspiration for this ambitious challenge is that I know I can use my swimming talents to help kids with cancer and people with disabilities, and hopefully by swimming 32 miles, I will be able to get more people involved in these charities.”
Von Wielligh explained he is aiming to raise R32,000 – R1000 for each mile – with part of the funds raised also going to one of the new official aQuellé Midmar Mile charities, the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).
For Von Wielligh, preparation has been gruelling, covering 60-70km a week in training.
“To prepare for the 32 miles, I have trained for the last seven months, doing sessions of up to 20km in a single session in a pool… with Midmar Dam known for its waves and wind, each mile will be a feat on its own getting closer to the 32,” he said.
Nutrition and recovery are equally important. “I will be taking my lessons learned over the last seven months, to fuel with enough carbs leading four days into the start of the charity swim as well as taking my Powerbar gels and my Sport RX recovery and protein drinks,” he explained.
Von Wielligh’s motivation is deeply rooted in the work of Happy Bundles. “Seeing how happy a kid is when they receive the bundles is something else, as if at that moment they forget about the fight they are fighting and they are just smiling. This is also why I swim for Happy Bundles, as the mileage I am swimming is nothing compared to what some of these kids go through.”
While this is very much Von Wielligh’s personal mission, he is not alone in his epic quest. Sydney Olympic silver medallist Terence Parkin will also attempt the 32-mile feat, adding further inspiration to the challenge. “At the 2025 Midmar Mile, Terence did mention that he might be joining, but it wasn’t until recently that [race director] Wayne Riddin told me that Terence is going to attempt the 32 miles effort with me. Myself, Wayne and Terence will also be supporting the NCPD.”
Von Wielligh hopes his mammoth effort will motivate others to take part. “I hope to inspire people and fellow swimmers to take on the challenge to join the Midmar Mile Charity Challenge and swim to make a difference,” he said.
Those wishing to support Von Wielligh’s mission, can do so at: Happy Bundles - Reino Swim 32 Miles for Smiles while entries to take part in the aQuellé Midmar Mile are still open at www.midmarmile.com
Photo credit: ActionPhotoSA
The next solar eclipse visible from Howick, KwaZulu-Natal, will occur on the 17th of February in 2026.
While the main event is an "Annular" (Ring of Fire) eclipse, that view is reserved for Antarctica. In Howick, you will see a Partial Solar Eclipse.
As Howick is slightly inland, you can expect to view a modest "bite" taken out of the sun.
Maximum Coverage: Approximately 15–16% of the Sun will be covered by the Moon.
Visual Effect: You won't notice the sky turning dark (this usually requires >90% coverage), but if you use proper solar filters, you will see the Moon clearly silhouetted against the Sun's disk.
Duration: The entire event will last about 1 hour and 46 minutes beginning at about 2.11pm.
Future Eclipse Excitement for Howick
If you're looking for a more dramatic event, expect that on 25 November 2030.
The "Big One", a Total Solar Eclipse, will cross Southern Africa. While the path of totality is slightly south of KZN (running through the Free State and Eastern Cape), Howick will see a massive partial eclipse where the sun is almost entirely covered.
Safety First: Never look directly at the Sun during a partial eclipse without ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses. Regular sunglasses, even very dark ones, will not protect your eyes from permanent damage.