"Our Residents have continued their meaningful work on the Singakwenza project. We have extended our recycling program. We now also recycle soft plastics, cold drink bottles, and food cans. We still continue with the milk bottle recycling for Enviro Timbers, and the goods for Singakwenza.

This ongoing partnership reminds us that when we work together, everyone has something valuable to offer — and that even the simplest materials can create a lasting impact." updated Sunfield Home in Howick, KZN.

Leap into spring with a full day of movement, mindfulness, creativity, and connection at Spring Leap Fest 2025 — The Old Mushroom Farm’s annual celebration of holistic health, fitness, and community spirit.

Taking place on Saturday, 6 September 2025, this vibrant one-day festival invites participants to breathe deeply, stretch fully, and immerse themselves in a diverse programme designed to energise body, mind, and soul. Set against the rolling hills of the KZN Midlands, The Old Mushroom Farm provides a unique and picturesque backdrop, where visitors can move between rustic tunnels, gardens, and open-air spaces while soaking up the crisp spring air.

Your ticket unlocks unlimited access to a full day’s line-up of classes, workshops, talks, and creative sessions — everything from yoga, Pilates, and dance to Qi-Gong, meditation, foraging walks, sound journeys, and live music. Whether you’re seeking to move, learn, explore, or connect, the programme offers something for everyone.

Highlights from this year’s schedule include Bonana-Einander Sehen’s dance workshop, yoga with Sharuska, Qi-Gong with Jessica Dreamtime, and a movement and sound workshop with Desiré Davids and Benoit Bottex. For those with a love of the natural world, Nikki Brighton’s foraging walk promises hands-on learning, while creative spirits can ground themselves in clay with Mick Haigh or join a collaborative mural project. Talks and workshops range from nutrition and kinesiology to creative writing, meditation, and self-development. Live music from What We Are will bring the community together in celebration and a live, collaborative performance from some of the festival participants and local artists will close off the day.

The festival format is intentionally flexible — with most sessions operating on a first-come, first-served basis, participants are free to follow their flow and create their own personal journey through the day. Registration opens at 6:30am, with the first classes beginning at 7:30am.

Guests are encouraged to bring along a yoga mat, pillow, blanket, comfortable clothes, walking shoes, notebook, pen, water bottle, sun hat, and warm jacket to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Delicious food and non-alcoholic drinks will be available on site from local vendors, catering to a wide range of tastes.

While Spring Leap Fest is a one-day event, limited accommodation is available on site at The Old Mushroom Farm for those travelling from further afield. Early booking is recommended via The Old Mushroom Farm’s website or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please note that accommodation is not included in the festival ticket price.

Tickets are R350 per person and are available now on Quicket.

With its unique mix of movement, music, nature, and community spirit, Spring Leap Fest 2025 promises to be a day of self-care, self-development, and springtime joy.

EVENT DETAILS

• Date: Saturday, 6 September 2025
• Venue: The Old Mushroom Farm, 11 Karkloof Road, Howick (KZN Midlands) ● Tickets: R350 per person via Quicket (https://www.quicket.co.za/events/319187-spring-leap-fest-2024/#/)
• Time: 6:30 - 17:00

We can’t wait to see where the day takes you!

uMngeni-uThukela Water advises customers and stakeholders that planned water curtailments will be reintroduced from Monday, 1 September 2025. These curtailments will affect the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, Msunduzi Local Municipality and the uMgungundlovu District Municipality, all of which are supplied from the uMngeni River system.

This intervention is in keeping with the abstraction licence conditions issued by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS). These conditions require that uMngeni-uThukela Water must not go above the set limits when abstracting water from dams.

This is to safeguard the long-term sustainability of the system and ensure water availability in times of low or no rainfall.

The Department of Water and Sanitation first introduced the curtailments in 2024 as a means of reducing the amount of water abstracted by uMngeni-uThukela Water from dams to be in line with the permissible abstraction volumes.

However, following a healthy summer rainfall season and overflowing dams, they were temporarily suspended.

Thus far, uMngeni-uThukela Water has been supplying water that exceeds the contracted volumes to the three affected municipalities.

While dam levels within the uMngeni system are currently stable, it is critical to implement prudent water management measures in anticipation of possible future drought conditions.
The curtailments will involve a percentage reduction in water supplied to the affected municipalities. The municipalities will, in turn, determine and communicate specific restrictions or supply adjustments for end users.

uMngeni-uThukela Water remains committed to working closely with DWS, municipalities, and stakeholders to manage the system responsibly.

Two of South Africa’s most celebrated guitarists are set to join forces for a rare run of three shows across KwaZulu-Natal, as part of their highly anticipated collaborative national tour. These landmark performances will fuse the raw, blues-rock power of Dan Patlansky with the intricate, genre-bending artistry of Guy Buttery, creating a live experience that promises to be nothing short of unforgettable.

Between them, Patlansky and Buttery have toured the globe, released award-winning albums, and captivated audiences everywhere from Mooi River to New York. The pair first crossed paths in their twenties, bonding as “two young guitar nerds” at a music festival. Now, fourteen years later, they reunite on the road — debuting newly written material, reimagined favourites, and unexpected collaborations that have been quietly taking shape behind the scenes.

Patlansky, renowned for his electrifying guitar work and soulful vocals, boasts 11 studio albums and has twice held the title of #1 Blues Rock Album in the World (Blues Rock Review USA). His 2024 release Movin’ On was named #3 Blues Rock Album of the Year. Buttery, a multi-instrumentalist often described as a “national treasure,” has performed in over 10 countries, earned multiple South African Music Awards, and collaborated with icons including Dave Matthews, Salif Keita, and Vusi Mahlasela.

With every date on this national tour selling out fast, these three KZN performances are set to be no different. Secure your tickets now — once they’re gone, they’re gone.

05 September Seabrooke’s Theatre Berea

06 September Lyric Lounge Ballito

07 September The Old Mushroom Farm Howick

Buy Tickets Here

As a community gesture Heritage House Preschool invited the children from St Joseph's Preschool to come along to watch an Educate and Fascinate show, which was something they seldom if ever get the opportunity to enjoy.

Andre from Educate and Fascinate presented a wonderful educational show all about the Rainforest.

The children learnt about the vast array of creatres that live in Rainforests - the Poison Dart Frog, the Pink Dolphin, the very slow Sloth, the Monkeys and so many different Insects.

The different levels that the Rainforest plants grow in was demonstrated by dressing the children up, from the forest floor, the understory, then the canopy to the emergent layer where the tallest trees are found, and the little raindrops showed that the Rainforest is very wet all the time.

The children were very sad to hear about deforestation, and that the animals lose their homes when the trees get chopped down.

The show ended with the children saying 'we are the next generation, we must save our forests from deforestation!'

More about Heritage House Preschool

Most of us are aware that there are 3 main parts to the ear - the outer ear, middle ear and inner ear - that all work together allowing us to hear. But did you know that the inner ear is no bigger than the circumference of a pencil eraser.

While this may not seem that interesting, did you know that the inner ear contains two main parts: the cochlea (the hearing organ) and the semicircular canals, and is responsible for two primary functions: hearing and balance.

If you feel that your hearing isn’t “balanced”, it’s time to call Butlin Hearing for a FREE hearing screening, a comprehensive hearing test, or a new hearing device.

Call Claire in Howick on 033 330 3966 or Mark in Pietermaritzburg on 033 342 2330 to book your appointment and let Butlin Hearing welcome you to the world of sound!

'On this International Cat Day, why not make a meaningful change in a cats life by donating to an organisation near you for the sterilsation of a cat?' motivates Midmar Vet Clinic, Howick KZN. Veterinary Dr Lee Pachonick walks the talk as she undertakes endless steri-clinics on her weekends.

Celebrating Women’s Month through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership in the IT sector.

In the IT industry women are stepping up, gaining more visibility, and building influence, and mentorship is becoming more than just career advice – it’s a form of advocacy. For Carmen Hargroves, Corporate Director at Zinia, a leading technology group in South Africa, mentorship is both a responsibility and a privilege.

“As women in tech, we don’t just need to be good at what we do – we need to show other women that it’s possible,” Carmen explains. “Being a mentor means sharing not just our technical knowledge, but your hard-earned lessons. It’s helping other women see possibilities where they may have only seen barriers.”

As Women’s Month shines a spotlight on female empowerment and solidarity, Carmen believes mentorship plays a pivotal role in building future-ready teams and more inclusive workplaces. “Representation matters. When women see other women in leadership, they begin to believe it is possible for them too,” she says. “Most of us didn’t get here on our own. Mentorship is how we honour those who helped us – by paying it forward.”

Carmen has mentored dozens of women, guiding them through the challenges of a male-dominated industry. She views mentorship not as a side activity, but as a core leadership function – one that can transform culture and career trajectories alike.

Carmen shares her top 5 habits for mentoring in the workplace:

Lead with active listening
Mentorship starts with listening and understanding your team – their goals, challenges and strengths. When people feel truly heard, they’re more likely to trust your guidance and open up to meaningful growth.

Model growth and vulnerability
Your team needs to see that you’re growing too. It builds trust and psychological safety. By being open about your own journey, you show that leadership is a process, not a destination.

Set intentional development goals
It’s not just about giving advice. It’s about helping shape your team’s path. Clear goals create direction, accountability, and a sense of progress that fuels confidence and motivation.

Create visibility
Women and underrepresented team members are often overlooked. Mentorship includes sponsorship – creating opportunities for them to be seen. Advocating for your team in the rooms they’re not yet in is one of the most powerful things a mentor can do.

Build feedback into culture
Regular, constructive feedback improves confidence. Aim to create a space where feedback is a tool for growth, not criticism. Feedback should empower, not diminish. When done right, it becomes a mirror for development, not a magnifying glass for flaws.

As companies across South Africa push toward more inclusive leadership, Carmen’s message is clear: mentorship is not optional – it’s essential. It’s how women leaders multiply their impact and help build a more equitable, empowered future.

“When you lift others up, you don’t lose your place – you extend your legacy,” she says. “That’s the true power of mentorship.”

Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women, and it’s more than just a statistic. It’s someone’s mom, sister, friend, or colleague. This Women’s Month, we’re opening the conversation around Severe Illness Cover, because when the unexpected happens, financial support can offer strength, stability, and a little less worry.

Let’s make sure the right cover is in place before it’s needed. Talk to us about Severe Illness benefits that support you through life’s toughest moments.

Call 033 330 3601 or visit 101 Main Street, Howick.

Cooke Fuller Group - covering our community Since 1981.

'Seven of our Michaelhouse golfers took part in the final round of the recent KwaZulu-Natal trials.

Congratulations to the following boys who have been selected to represent our province at the South African Schools Inter-Provincial Tournament (IPT) in North-West Province in October:

A Team:
Connor Brown
Matthew Carolan

B Team:
Benjamin Heuer
Oliver Brown
Jack Campbell

Well done gentlemen!' announced Michaelhouse.

Ozonated Glycerin is a highly potent natural remedy infused with ozone to deliver powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and oxygenating benefits. It is an excellent aid for a variety of health concerns, including skin conditions, infections, wound healing, and even cancer support.

💙 Why Use Ozonated Glycerin?

✔️ Boosts Immunity – Fights bacteria, viruses, and fungi
✔️ Enhances Oxygen Delivery – Supports cell regeneration & healing
✔️ Powerful Anti-Inflammatory – Helps with pain relief & tissue repair
✔️ Accelerates Wound & Skin Healing – Aids in burns, cuts, and irritations
✔️ Cancer Support – Supports overall health & recovery
✅ Safe for Humans, Cats, Dogs, Horses & Other Animals!

A safe, effective, and natural solution.

Call Lynn on 082 828 6778.

'An important part of rehabilitating baby Owls is what we call "insect school". A flat tray filled with leaves, mealworms, crickets, and cockroaches is placed in the enclosure. The noise the insects make while moving through the dried leaf matter, attracts the young Owls and they start exploring, catching, and eating the bugs, and they LOVE it...

These four Spotted Eagle Owl chicks, all piled in together!' shared FreeMe Wildlife.

Howick High MTB riders competed in Race #2 of the KZN Cycle Lab Schools Mountain Biking Series held at Maritzburg College on Sunday, 10 August.

We congratulate our riders on their awesome results.

SUB-JUNIOR BOYS:
Joshua Holtzhausen 13th

YOUTH GIRLS:
Janet Reed (Grade 9) 11th

YOUTH BOYS:
Stuart Macaskill (Grade 9) 31st
Jason Keough (Grade 9) 4th

JUNIOR BOYS:
James Viljoen (Grade 11) 39th
Rory Poole (Grade 11) 38th
Joshua Reynolds (Grade 11) 13th

Age Quod Agis!

More about Howick High School

Big John Clothing | Comfy Footwear

We provide clothing and accessories for the whole family. This week we are showcasing some of our footwear.

In the Crocs range, we also stock Crocs Jibbitz!

SPECIAL OFFER: Hey Dude shoes are less R200 until the 17th of August 2025!!!

(Prices on images valid August 2025)

Call on 033 330 4129

WhatsApp 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

Road Closures and Parking for the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge Maritzburg: Sunday 17 August

A full field of 3,500 competitors is expected at this year’s Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge, which takes place this Sunday 17 August, around Alexandra Park and the outskirts of the CBD, participants are requested to note the road closures so as to avoid traffic congestion on race day and be late for their start.

‘We are encouraging everyone to plan ahead to make sure you are on time. Both distances start promptly at 8am and we are full to capacity, which will impact on access roads to the start. Please research the routes and road closures so as not to miss the starter’s pistol’, stated Race Director, Brad Glasspoole. “Participants will have a 15 minute start window after which the route will be closed for safety reasons.”

The start line is near Maritzburg College, both the 10km and 5km events’ routes are “out-and-back” starting in Princess Margaret Drive and finishing at The Oval, Cricket Stadium.

The road closures and times are as follows:

Sunday, 17 August

Balmoral Drive - closed from 03:00 – 11:00

Princess Margaret Drive - closed from 03:00 – 11: 00

Park Drive between Princess Margaret Drive and Princess Elizabeth Drive - closed from 03:00 – 11:00

Princess Elizabeth Drive - closed from 03:00 – 11:00

Park Drive from College Road to Princess Margaret Drive - closed from 07:00 – 11:00

Alexandra Road from Cross Road to Alan Paton Avenue - closed (inbound only) from 07:00 – 10:00

Alan Paton Avenue from Alexandra Road to Burger Street - closed (inbound only) from 07:00 – 08:30

Alexandra Road between Alan Paton Avenue and Jesmond Road – closed in both directions from 07:30 until approximately 08:45

West Street / College Road (away from the CBD) closed from 07:00 till approximately 10:00

Residents in the New Scotland Road area of Pelham will be able to access their residence from Campsdrift Road and egress via College Road towards the CBD between 07:00 and 10:00.

Parking for the event is on the soccer fields off Prince Charles Drive (next to the BMX track) which can be accessed via Alan Paton Avenue / Chief Albert Luthuli Street (near Alexandra Baths) into Park Drive.

There will be no access from Jesmond Road / Alexandra Road intersection into the Park.

Additional Parking will be on the fields adjacent to Kershaw Park Tennis Club off Chief Albert Luthuli Street.

The race is completely sold out. Participants who have entered will be able to collect their race numbers and goodie bags on Friday 15 August from 10am to 5pm and on Saturday 16 August from 10am to 3pm at The Oval Cricket Ground, Alexandra Park.

For more info visit the official race on https://sparwomenschallenge.co.za/maritzburg/

Pic by Val Adamson: Ready to run! The Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/ 5km Challenge takes place on Sunday 17 August. Please make arrangements for getting there on time. Getting ready for the action are (left to right) Cindy Watridge (SPAR KZN Omni Channel Retail Operations Manager), learner from Pietermaritzburg Girls High School, Abusiswa Mnguni and Natasha Jeebodh (SPAR KZN Development Design Manager).

Stage House in Howick is all about making a house a home. Specialising in blinds, curtains, fabrics, upholstery, home and more..

These are some recent projects they have completed.

Left: A newly designed playmat for a soon-to-be little bundle of joy. This mat doesn’t just look amazing, it’s also waterproof front and back!

Centre: Impressive ceiling to floor wave track curtains done on a curve rail with blockout behind!

Right: A beautiful different kind of wallpaper installation with incredible texture!

So, if these results inspire your next home revamp, connect with the Stage House team on 083 706 9022. Get a little help from the professionals for top notch outcomes!

The Midlands Hiking Club took on the spectacular The Leopard Trail in the Baviaanskloof — and what an unforgettable experience it was!

With 10 enthusiastic hikers, we journeyed through some of the most breathtaking landscapes South Africa has to offer. Towering cliffs, winding valleys, river crossings, ancient rock formations, and endless silence — nature at its absolute finest.

This trail didn’t just challenge our legs — it lifted our spirits. For four glorious days, we left our worries behind and soaked in the peace, laughter, stars, and camaraderie.

A big shoutout to the team behind the trail – it’s so well laid out, with comfy overnight huts, and even the luxury of hot showers The organisation is top-notch and allows you to truly just hike, breathe, and be.

Grateful for strong legs, shared meals, deep sleeps, and moments of awe. If you ever get the chance — do it. The Leopard Trail is soul medicine.

More about Midlands Hiking Club

You may not have thought so, but research suggests that smokers are more susceptible to hearing loss than non-smokers.

Smoking can affect your hearing health in a variety of ways due to the chemicals they contain that can deplete oxygen levels and constrict blood vessels all over your body – including those in your inner ear responsible for maintaining hair cell health.

Whether you’re a smoker or not, if you’re concerned about your hearing, visit Butlin Hearing in Howick or Pietermaritzburg for a FREE hearing screening, a comprehensive hearing test, or a new hearing device.

Call Claire on 033 330 3966 or Mark on 033 342 2330 and let Butlin Hearing welcome you to the world of sound!