We had a wonderful time at Heritage House Preschool celebrating Heritage Day! There was excitement in the air as we danced, we sang, ate Koeksisters, Amagwinya and Milk Tart, and admired each other's colourful outfits. Thank you to all our parents for making your children look amazing in their traditional attire.

Set within the picturesque Bosch Hoek Manor House, this stunning forest garden is a 60-year-old sanctuary nestled between the rolling fairways of Bosch Hoek’s top-rated 9-hole golf course. Its serene beauty offers visitors a peaceful retreat, where nature’s splendour unfolds in vibrant displays of clivias, japonicas, azaleas, hydrangeas, camellias and rhododendrons.

This spring garden is a carefully nurtured gem, where the rich history of over six decades harmonises with nature’s ever-changing seasons. Majestic trees provide dappled shade and colourful spring blooms create a breathtaking tapestry of flowers, while the lush greenery and meandering paths invite visitors to explore every corner. The tranquil setting is complemented by stunning views of the Bosch Hoek dam and the undulating Midlands hills, enhancing the garden's charm and allure.

After wandering through this captivating garden, visitors are invited to relax and enjoy delightful refreshments at the Bosch Hoek Club House or treat themselves to a delicious meal at the Bosch Hoek Lodge Restaurant, both offering magnificent views from their verandahs. This garden, intertwined with the golf course’s beauty, stands as a true testament to the harmony between nature, leisure and the Midlands landscape. All proceeds in support of SPCA, Howick.

Address: Bosch Hoek Golf Estate, Balgowan, 3275

Times: 9am to 3pm

Entrance: R10p/p (proceeds to SPCA, Howick)

Directions:

From Durban Bosch Hoek Golf Estate is a 1.5 hour journey along the N3 towards Johannesburg. Take the Balgowan and Curry’s Post glide-off i.e. Exit 125, at the top of the glide-off turn right over the N3 and travel 500m to the Bosch Hoek Golf Club gate.

From Johannesburg Bosch Hoek is a 4 hour journey along the N3 towards Durban, take the Balgowan and Curry’s Post glide-off i.e. Exit 125, at the top of the glide-off turn left and travel 400m to the Bosch Hoek Golf Club gate.

Did you know Glass Cuttings' artist Gill Pryke creates custom designs that tell a story?

This stunning Eland was crafted for clients in Underberg to celebrate its regular visits to their homestead. It was an honor to transform their appreciation into a beautiful glass door panel.

What's your story? Let Gill help you bring it to life!

View stained glass and flame torch creations at Glass Cuttings, @pigglywigglymidlands

Come shopping for more beautiful glass products!

For custom made designs and bulk orders, contact Gill with a call or WhatsApp on 082 254 4798

www.glasscuttings.co.za

Reporting crimes to your local SAPS
Please report any crime, no matter how small, to your local SAPS and Security Service Provider. If you have items stolen it is important that you open a case and get a CAS number. Reporting crime to the South African Police Services is very important.

KSS Staff are happy to support and guide you through the process.

The SAPS will open a case docket and investigate the crime, effecting arrests of suspects and presenting the case to courts for prosecution.

The Process:
When a person has been a victim of crime, they can contact the police by dialing 10111 or visit their nearest Police Station. If a Police Official attends the crime scene, they will obtain a statement from the complainant and witnesses if possible.

The Police Official will then go to the Police Station and register the case in the SAPS Crime Administration System (CAS) and give the complainant the reference which is called a CAS number.

The complainant must ensure that he/she retains this CAS number as a reference for future enquiries regarding the criminal case.

If the complainant visits the local Police Station to report the crime, they will be attended to in the Community Service Centre by a Police Official. The Police Official will first interview and then take a statement from the complainant and register the reported crime into the CAS file.

The complainant will then be given a CAS number which must be used for all enquiries regarding the reported criminal case.

The completed case docket is then allocated to a Police Detective who will carry out the investigation and all enquiries can then be directed to this detective.

The Detective in charge of the particular case will complete the investigation and present the docket to the relevant court for prosecution.

The complainant will be notified by the Detective when he/she is to attend the court hearings.

The local SAPS contact numbers are:
Radio Control (Hilton) 10111
SAPS Howick 033 239 9340 / 033 239 9320 / 033 3304104
SAPS Mpophomeni 033 238 0078
SAPS Hilton 033 845 6521
SAPS Boston 033 997 1721 / 039 832 0007
SAPS Nottingham Road 033 266 6713
SAPS Town Hill 033 845 7789 / 033 845 7790
Flying Squad (Hilton) 033 845 6500
Stock Theft 082 411 6466

There are many local organisations, Security Service Providers, NHW groups and community members trying to make a difference and reduce crime. Please play your part by reporting crimes responsibly and opening cases with SAPS so that all these efforts are not in vain. Please also be sensible and responsible about your use of social media when reporting crimes.

You can also contact Knight Security Solutions 24/7 on 033 330 5911.

Hot Items
Trespassing
Electrical tools
Batteries
Bicycles
Brush Cutters
Mattresses
Cement
Geyser

Fatherhood can turn life’s biggest questions into clear answers. For South African singer-songwriter Hunter Kennedy, that moment came while waiting for his daughter to be born. In his latest single, “Waiting for Maria”, the Fokofpolisiekar and Die Heuwels Fantasties lyricist trades his usual existential edge for something more intimate: the hope, purpose, and meaning awakened in the quiet, anxious days before becoming a father.

Hunter came to a realisation that becoming a father awakened his purpose – after years of trying to find meaning – and in one pivotal moment, understanding emerged. Yet he carries a raw, fundamental uncertainty into the next chapter of his life, where his drive to be a good father collides with his longing to be loved in return.

He realises their lives are intertwined, and they will experience the journey together. At the same time, he shoulders the responsibility of preparing – not sheltering – her for what lies ahead.

“I wrote the chorus while I was sitting in the hospital waiting area after she was born,” says Kennedy. “It struck me that I’d probably be waiting for her for the rest of my life – outside school, outside a house party, even at my deathbed. And in that moment, all of life just made sense.”

“After ten years in the making, Fred Den Hartog (long-time producer/collaborator and Die Heuwels Fantasties member) and I first produced the song in a pop, almost hip-hop vibe, but when we stripped it down, it felt more honest,” he says. “It’s the most basic form – and somehow the most truthful.

This creative shift mirrors the life changes that inspired it, adding colour to his work – a lighter emotional shade compared to his usual style, which is often existential, satirical and sometimes “just downright weird”, he admits.

“Funnily enough the song isn’t really about Maria,” he laughs. “It’s about the changes her arrival unlocked in me. Maybe she’ll get it when she has children.”

The lyrics are thoughtful, warmly sentimental and surprisingly upbeat – a song his daughter may look back on with a knowing smile.

This single is sure to resonate with people who recognise and share in those small spaces, those between moments, waiting for those you love.

“Without knowing it, I had been waiting for her all my life,” he reflects. “I know people say it’s risky to make your kid your sole purpose - what happens when they grow up and leave? – but right now, it works for me. Being a dad and exploring the world through a child’s lens is probably the most fun I’m having at the moment. I dunno. Fight me.”

With “Waiting for Maria,” Kennedy offers more than a song – he offers a reminder: in the layered quiet between life’s milestones, there is beauty, purpose, and meaning to be found. It’s in these fleeting pauses, where the vastness of existence meets the intimacy of small, precious moments, that the song finds its heartbeat.

Follow @hunterkennedy.music and click to pre-save - Waiting for Maria now!

https://ffm.to/waitingformaria

Hunter’s close friend and Fokofpolisiekar band member, Francois van Coke, was so taken with the song that he encouraged Hunter to release it and perform it live for the first time at Francois van Coke & Vriende, held at SunBet Arena in Pretoria on 3 October 2025.

Photo credit: Neelia Kenendy

Leggings and the Pockets You Can't Live Without

We heard you! Our essential AVIA black leggings feature a pocket on each side, so you can go hands-free. These are great when you are sipping morning coffee before stretching on your yoga mat, walking your dog, at gym or out chasing personal bests.

On sale this week, for a limited time. Grab yours to see why you'll never do life without them ever again.

Usually R295.00 - This week only - R150.00
*While stocks last, from 16-21 September 2025
Available in Small to XL.

Come shopping at Big John Clothing, 40 Main Street Howick!

CONNECT
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/

We had an incredible turn out of 36 Prep kids at the final event of the 2025 KZN Schools Cycling / CycleLab Lap Series.

Held on “Home Soil” at Howick High it was a great day of racing with a mammoth 581 riders over the course of the day, our riders are commended on their efforts.

*Sub Nip Boys (field of 109 riders)*
Digby Cameron
Daniel Glaum
Mitchell Hand
Juan Kruger
Thomas Le Voy
Lihan Snyman - 5th
Thomas Van Wyk

*Sub Nip Girls (field of 39 riders)*
Hailey Michaux
Lucy Schmidt
Hadley Shuttleworth
Lily Van Wyk

*Nip Boys (field of 100 riders)*
Ruben Crous
Connor Curtis - 9th
Wardo Fargher
Reece Owen
Owen Phillips-Page
Cameron Ross
Josh Smit
Logan Tedder
Luke Van Wyk

*Nip Girls (field of 44 riders)*
Callagh Baker - 11th
Lily Crafford
Ashton-Leigh Miny
Alison Stevens
Jamie Van Wyk
Tanith Cameron
Aven Shuttleworth

*Sprog Boys (field of 68 riders)*
Matthew Eaton
Gabriel Gonzalez - 6th
Dylan Keough
*Sprog Girls (field of 38 riders)*
Hannah Curtis
Lilly Holtzhausen
Kira Nezar
Megan Schmidt
Katie Smit
Taylor Symons

'Howick High School is excited to announce that we will be hosting our very first Christmas Night Market on Friday, 5 December 2025.

With over 35 vendors, food and refreshment, live entertainment and photo opportunities at Santa's Grotto, the event promises to be an evening filled with festive cheer, delicious food, unique crafts, and a wonderful community atmosphere. It's the perfect opportunity to kick off the holiday season and find some special gifts!

More details will be shared soon, but for now, please save the date! We can't wait to see you there.' announced Howick High School.

More about Howick High - 033 330 2858 for more information.

In observation of World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is proud launches its annual campaign. This year's theme, 'Hope Starts with Talking', is a powerful reminder that open conversation is the most crucial first step towards getting help. The stigma surrounding Mental Health often prevents people from seeking help. This campaign aims to break that silence, highlighting that speaking up, whether as someone who is in distress or as a concerned loved one, is an act of strength and courage.

The need for this is critical, as SADAG operates the only 24-hour Suicide Crisis Helplines in South Africa, with a staggering 1 in 4 calls received being suicide-related. While global statistics are grim, the reality is that South Africa has about 14 000 deaths from Suicide per a year. These statistics aren't just numbers; they represent real people in distress.

Throughout this campaign, SADAG intends to share a few simple guidelines to help individuals confidently approach these vital conversations. When approaching a loved one, start by choosing a private, comfortable setting. Express your concern using 'I' statements, such as, "I've noticed you haven't seemed yourself lately, and I'm worried about you," or "I've been thinking about you, and I wanted to check in to see how you're doing." Then listen without judgment and validate their feelings. Similarly, it takes courage to ask for help, but it's the right thing to do. You can say, "I'm struggling, and I need to talk to someone," or "I'm not okay, and I need some help." Remember, there is no weakness in reaching out.

"Suicide prevention is a collective responsibility," says Zamo Mbele, SADAG Board Member and Clinical Psychologist. "A simple conversation can be the difference between life and death. Our goal with this campaign is to equip every person with the confidence to have that life-changing chat and to know that help is available."

Campaign Activities
To reach communities directly, SADAG is hosting a series of free initiatives throughout the month.

▪ Online Webinars: The campaign includes a series of free online webinars with experts throughout the month of September, covering important topics. We encourage everyone to join these sessions, which will be live-streamed on SADAG’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. The topics include: ‘Facing Suicidal thoughts’, ‘How to start the conversation’, ‘How to support and connect after a Suicide attempt’ and ‘Coping with loss after Suicide’
▪ Online Toolkit and Helpline:To provide immediate support and resources, SADAG has developed an online Suicide Toolkit, available on our website. In this comprehensive toolkit, you will find helpful materials, including informative brochures, videos and a step-by-step Suicide safety plan. We encourage you to visit our website and explore this essential toolkit today.
▪ Care Packs: To amplify our message and spread hope, SADAG is distributing Care Packs to universities, corporations, and communities. These packs are designed to increase awareness and provide helpful information and tools that empower individuals and organisations to prioritise mental well-being and Suicide prevention.
"This year, we're taking our message directly to communities through a series of webinars and a visible road activation," adds Fatima Seedat, SADAG Development Manager. "By bringing these conversations into public spaces, we hope to normalise talking about Suicide Prevention and Mental Health and make it clear that no one has to suffer it alone."

SADAG urges everyone to join this initiative, to talk openly, and to be a part of the solution. If you or someone you know is in need of support, do not hesitate to reach out. Call SADAG's 24-hour helpline at 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 789 or visit www.sadag.org.

Brahman Hills continues to shine on the global stage. Their Healing Earth Transformative Wellness Spa has just been crowned Spa of the Year at the prestigious Destination Deluxe Awards 2025, held on 17th September 2025 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand.

This international award comes hot on the heels of two other recent accolades for the Midlands-based property. Earlier this month, Brahman Hills was named Best Upcoming Wedding Venue at the TopVendor Wedding Awards and also received a KZN Top Business Award for Renewable Efficiency – Green Initiatives in August.

The latest win in Bangkok builds on a remarkable history: in 2023, the spa was recognised as Best Boutique Hotel Spa at the South African Spa Awards, in association with Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa, Paris. Previously, in the Luxe Global Awards 2022, the spa secured multiple global honours, including Best Luxury Lodge Spa, Best Luxury Countryside Spa, and Best Overall Spa Experience, marking its long-standing excellence in global wellness.

The annual international Destination Deluxe Awards are regarded as one of the most esteemed accolades in the global luxury wellness and travel sector. A panel of 21 international judges, bringing decades of collective industry expertise in wellness and high-end spas, applied rigorous criteria - making the recognition all the more significant.

Reflecting this rigorous assessment process, and with renowned and distinguished nominees from around the world in contention, the awards honour genuine pioneers in sustainability, excellence, creativity, and innovation.

“To bring home an international award like this is next level,” says Onwaba Gonyora, Director at Brahman Hills. “It’s an extraordinary honour; not just for our spa, but for the entire team whose passion and commitment are evident right down to the smallest detail. The Healing Earth Spa is not merely an amenity,” she adds. “It’s part of the soul of Brahman Hills; it’s where guests come to retreat, rest and restore.”

Set within Brahman Hills’ private Blue Crane Reserve in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, the luxurious Healing Earth Spa is surrounded by an indigenous forest, rolling hills, abundant wildlife, and the estate’s internationally acclaimed RHS gardens. The spa’s design blurs the line between indoors and out, with tranquil glass-walled treatment rooms, deep-soak tubs positioned to catch the sunset, and steam rooms offering still views of surrounding dams. Pampering, Indulgent, Rejuvenating.

Every experience is carefully crafted to renew body, mind, and spirit. Signature treatments use Healing Earth’s award-winning vegan products, formulated with African botanicals like Raw Shea Butter, Baobab, Marula, and Pinotage and delivered in a setting that encourages stillness and reflection.

Healing Earth, a proudly South African and African brand, was also a finalist in two other categories: Eco-Spa of the Year for its Siringit Spa in Tanzania, and Spa Skincare Brand of the Year, rounding off a strong showing for African wellness on the global stage.

Top image: Cristina Doerig, Retreats & Business Development Manager, Elisabeth Brandt, CEO and Founder of Healing Earth, Elizabeth Davie, Marketing Director of Healing Earth, Vivienne Tang, Founder and CEO of Destination Deluxe.

New Tulip Sleeve Tops are in for all our gorgeous ladies, choose your favourite print or buy both!

Available in two fabulous prints...
Pastel: Calm and serene blue tones mingle beautifully.
Poppy: A vibrant floral, bursting with colourful energy! (Above)

These come in sizes 32 - 42 at R295.00 each!

Come shopping soon! 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

New Arrival Alert!

Say hello to the DEFY SBS F740 ECO M NL DFF663 – Dark INOX

Style meets performance with this sleek SBS Range that’s built to elevate your kitchen.

Features you’ll love:
Premium Dark Inox finish
ECO-friendly performance
DEFY quality you can trust

Only R16 499

Visit us in Howick
033 330 4330
www.giovision.co.za

Upgrade your kitchen today – because your home deserves the best!

Step into a night of elegance, fun, and purpose—a gathering where laughter meets compassion and where your presence can make a lasting difference.

Savour a beautifully prepared three-course meal.

Laugh without restraint with the hilarious ventriloquist Conrad Koch, bringing warmth and wit to the evening.

Dance in good company, creating memories that will linger long after the final song.

Beyond the glamour, this night carries a deeper meaning.

Every ticket purchased, every toast raised, and every laugh shared supports the essential, heartfelt work of hospice care—helping those in need find comfort, dignity, and hope.

This is your chance to celebrate the year’s journey while giving back in a way that truly matters.

RSVP by October 8th—we can’t wait for you to join us! 033 3305257 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Across South Africa and the globe, NGOs are driving solutions to society’s most urgent challenges - from hunger and education to healthcare and environmental protection. Still, many NGOs struggle to attract the visibility and funding necessary to sustain and expand their impact.

“Today, nonprofits have to compete with businesses, political campaigns, and entertainment for the attention of a digitally fatigued audience. Even when the work is meaningful and transformative, most NGOs go unnoticed,” says Nadia Hearn, Founder at Get Published, “PR is the bridge between a cause and its community. It raises visibility, turns impact into compelling stories, and opens doors to donors, partners, and long-term sustainability.”

Why PR Matters for Nonprofits

The nonprofit sector is one of the most saturated spaces in communications. South Africa alone has over 280,000 registered NGOs, each seeking recognition, funding, and support. Globally, millions of organisations are asking donors to pay attention to their campaigns.

The challenge is that funding doesn’t automatically flow to the NGOs with the most impact. It often goes to those who are best able to communicate their mission and build trust with their audiences. Without visibility, critical causes are frequently overlooked, underfunded, and under-supported.

This is where public relations becomes an essential tool. By crafting compelling narratives, NGOs can connect with their audience on a deeper level, showing them the real, human-centred results of their contributions. A PR campaign can tell the story of a child who received a scholarship, a family that now has access to healthcare, or a community that is empowered to protect its local environment. These stories are what inspire action. They turn passive onlookers into active donors, volunteers, and advocates.

Bridging the Visibility Gap

When an NGO's work is featured in respected news outlets, its legitimacy is reinforced. This third-party validation assures potential donors and partners that their investment is secure and their contributions will have a tangible impact.

A well-executed PR strategy positions an NGO as a thought leader in its field, not just a recipient of donations. By securing speaking engagements, writing opinion pieces, and providing expert commentary to the media, an organisation can shape public discourse, influence policy, and attract larger grants and corporate partnerships.

Amplifying Mission, Securing Resources

The long-term health of an NGO depends on more than donations. The way people engage with charitable causes has changed. Donors, particularly younger generations, are seeking transparency and authenticity. They want to be part of a movement. Advocacy, partnerships, and public trust are equally critical.

PR keeps NGOs top of mind by nurturing trusted, long-term relationships with key stakeholders, including journalists, policymakers, and corporate leaders. By proactively engaging with the media, NGOs can not only secure coverage but also build long-term relationships with reporters who become familiar with their work and keep them top of mind for future stories.

PR strengthens relationships by amplifying mission-driven work and showing stakeholders why it matters. It’s a proactive strategy that moves an organisation from being reactive to external events to shaping its own destiny. By intentionally telling their stories, NGOs can secure the financial support, public trust, and strategic partnerships required for a sustainable future. In doing so, they not only amplify their impact but also inspire a more compassionate and engaged world.

“With the right PR, NGOs don’t just raise money - they raise influence,” says Nadia Hearn. “That influence translates into stronger communities, larger partnerships, and more opportunities to make a lasting difference.”

Spring has sprung and September has brought in some nice sunny weather reminding us that Summer is on it’s way. The monthly competition sponsored by J Leslie Smith was held on Tuesday 9th September. The winners of the competition were Craig Whitby and Eli Meyer, second place went to Derrick Balfour and Colin Brown, with third place going to Pam Radley and Ann Cacho. Oakleigh Funeral Home Howick sponsored the plate prize and the winners were Barry Fairbrother and Neill Birdsey.

Pictured here, Crystal Dekker from J Leslie Smith & Co Inc presenting the prizes to the winners Craig Whitby and Eli Meyer.

We thank everyone who supported the club through sponsorship. We value your continued support.

FORTHCOMING EVENTS
Wednesday 24th September – The Avbob sponsored Heritage Tournament. 5 players per team, R200 per person. Morning: Trips & Pairs and Afternoon: Singles & Fours. Entries may be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Friday, 26th September - Bosch Autoworx sponsored Nominated 2 Bowl Trips. Time:O8h45 for 09h00. Prizes are also sponsored by Woodstone Restaurant. All registered bowlers are welcome to enter. Cost: R120 per team. New entries may be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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

Visitors are welcome to join us on these days.

FREE Coaching by registered Level 2 coaches is available to anyone above the age of 10.

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.

'Loving Howick isn't just a passion; it's the foundation of my work. My wholehearted effort is dedicated to ensuring you get the best price for your home and find the perfect property to call your own.' says Jennifer Gordon.

Call 072 351 5363

It's nearly Colour Run time and we are going to be painting Howick. Please take note of the run route so you are aware. Roads aren't closed but we will be filling them with colour.

START AT Howick High School
• Left onto Amber Avenue
• Left onto Plane Road
• Straight down
• Around Amber/Umgeni Island
• Back up Amber
• Right onto Wirth
• Down onto Bevdon
• Right at Umgeni
• Right onto Dalton
• Left onto Wirth
• Right onto Amber
• Re-enter the school via the Jubilee Gate

Special thanks to our sponsors

Colour Stations along the route:
Village Talk, Harcourts Hilton, Harvard House, Mosaic Funeral Group, Rawsons Midlands and NCT

Sponsors:
Fairfield, Nutting but Goodness, Verulam Wholesalers, Squirrel Nuts, Life Hilton Hospital, Truda, Oakleigh, Nottingham Road Spar, Fruit & Veg Bros and Tasha’s Fudge.

'Huge congratulations to Bandile Mahaye (E Block, East) for his outstanding swimming achievements in his age category recently!

BEAVERS SHORT COURSE CHAMPS 2025
50M Freestyle - 1st position
100M Breaststroke - 3rd position
200M Breaststroke - 3rd position

XXI AFRICA AQUATICS ZONE IV CHAMPIONSHIPS ESWATINI
50M Breaststroke - 2nd position (silver)
50M Butterfly - 2nd position (silver)
100M Butterfly - 1st position (gold)
50M Backstroke - 1st position (gold) with a New record
200M Butterfly - 3rd position (bronze)
100M Freestyle - 3rd position (bronze)
4x100M Medley Relay - 1st position(gold)
4x100M Freestyle Relay - 1st position (gold)
4x50M Freestyle Relay - 1st position (gold)

Bandile has also qualified for the SA National Short Course Championships taking place on the 25-28 September 2025 in Pietermartizburg.

Bandile, your commitment and excellence deserve every applause!' celebrated Michaelhouse, a private boys high school in the KZN Midlands.