Congratulations to Sienna Marx in grade 10 at Treverton College for being selected to play on the KZN Midlands U16 B Hockey Team. We wish you every success!
Education truly is an adventure.
For further information please visit www.treverton.co.za
'Every-doggy' who is 'some-doggy' will be there!!! The 'woof' of the town is Sunday's social gathering of the year. We are so excited to see you at Highgate Wine Estate, Piggly Wiggly for the 2024 edition of the 1000 Paws Walk on Sunday 2 June from 8.00 to 14.00. - shared uMngeni SPCA ahead of the upcoming annual walk.
Events for 1000 Paws Walk 2024
07.30 Registration opens
08.00 Walk opens
08.30 Marimbas - Howick Prep School
08.50 Precious Pups (up to 6 mths)
09.15 Terrific Teens (6 to 18 mths)
09.35 Awesome Adult (18 mths to 7 yrs)
10.00 Marimbas
10.20 Golden Oldies (8 years and older)
10.45 Owner/dog Look a like
11.10 Special Rescue (any rescue org., excl. SPCA's)
11.35 SPCA Champion Dog (adopted from any SPCA)
12.00 Paper Plate Challenge & Heelwork Demo
12.30 Raffle Draw
KZN Philharmonic Orchestra presents…
Music for Flute, Cello and Piano
Church of the Cross: Hayfields: Sun 2 June at 3pm
The KZN Philharmonic presents a one-off afternoon concert of music for flute, cello and piano, taking place at the Church of the Cross, 2 Bester Road in Hayfields, Pietermaritzburg on Sunday 2 June at 3pm.
The concert features Sabine Baird on flute; Marguerite Spies on cello and Maggie Deppe on piano who will play a carefully selected programme of music for Flute, Cello and Piano, as part of the church’s Music under the Cross series.
As well as being good friends, all three performers play with the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra.
The programme comprises: A Vivaldi - Sonata in A Minor for Flute and Basso Continuo; Ludwig van Beethoven - Allegro from Sonata for Cello and Piano in A Major; Ludwig van Beethoven - Theme and Variations for Flute and Piano; E Bloch - The Prayer; F Poulenc - Sonata for Flute and Piano; John Walton - Groovy Perpetuale and CM von Weber. Trio for Flute, Cello and Piano.
Tickets are R100 via Quicket https://qkt.io/XvYpz2 or R120 at the door.
Pictured here: Sabine Baird on flute; Marguerite Spies on cello and Maggie Deppe on piano.
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'One day can change your whole life!' This is the slogan for Global Wellness Day 2024 which will be celebrated on 8 June.
Yoga has an ancient philosophy dating back thousands of years. These days it's worth knowing that yoga is a serious workout, designed to keep your body and mind in the best state possible, no matter if you're young or old, whilst relaxing and unwinding away from the modern stresses of everyday life.
From a health perspective the benefits move well beyond a flexible body and a healthy mind. Yoga is the ultimate act of harmony between one's physical existence and spiritual consciousness. Practising yoga teaches us about the body and mind discipline, by uniting or connecting both body and mind.
Benefits of practicing yoga include:
Help manage and ease symptoms of chronic conditions
Encourages physical, mental and emotional relaxation - which in turn improves quality of sleep
Improves core strength and flexibility
Enhances well-being
Helps with weight loss and maintenance
Promotes mindfulness
Alleviates stress and anxiety
Helps the memory
Improves digestion
Builds resilience
Improves attention and focus
Yoga is an activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Why not book a yoga session outside in nature? Connecting with the natural world is essential for overall well-being and what better time to start than now!
Bron Bates is a certified restorative yoga teacher, based in the KZN Midlands. She focuses on a gentle approach and it is suitable for all levels of practice.
Bron (pictured top left) is based at Fordoun Hotel & Spa in Nottingham Road, KZN Midlands www.fordoun.com
Author credit: Liza Williams
Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, Liza has a deeply rooted love for all things wellness and her career as a Somatologist has taken her to different parts of the world.
She enjoys connecting with people and her hobbies include travel and tourism, photography, music and aesthetics.
Liza lives with her family in Nottingham Road, Midlands, South Africa.
Photo credits: Bron Bates and Liza Williams.
Simon Phiri, a Zimbabwean-born artist and illustrator residing in Bulawayo, specialises in pencil, charcoal and graphite drawings. His inspiration is beautifully captured in varying scenes of African tribal people, historical scenes, wildlife, and day-to-day life. Simon’s exquisitely detailed drawings win him commissions across the globe.
Catch up with Simon Phiri and his memorable drawings at ART in the Country in Hilton 22-25 May 2025, at Harrington House.
Carol’s ongoing love for our indigenous flora and birdlife is depicted in her unique contemporary botanical paintings using oils on canvas.
Based in Hilton, Carol Cox enjoys plein-air painting at many of the Midlands' gorgeous outdoor destinations. You may have seen her at the local river walk, but to be sure to meet - visit ART in the Country, 22 -25 May 2025 at Harrington House on the Hilton College road.
Bob is a long-standing artist with a gallery in the Eastern Cape seaside town of Port Alfred. Schooled in the Old Master oil painting tradition of WG Wiles, Bob has since adopted the motto of “getting out of your comfort zone and painting anything and everything". His work is featured in collections in South Africa and internationally.
Bob McKenzie will join 61 premier artists exhibiting at Harcourts Hilton ART in the Country, open at Harrington House in Hilton.
'I am an artist specialising in oils, with a passion for portraying nature and wildlife in their natural habitats, drawing inspiration from my deep interest in conservation.'said Lynda Buchanan Clarke.
This top-class annual art exhibition happens from 22 - 25 May 2025 at Harrington House on the Hilton College Road.
More about Harcourts Hilton ART in the Country
Today Funda Nenja supported the SPCA 1000 Paws Walk held at Highgate Wine Estate in the KZN Midlands. Many of our supporters stopped by our stand to chat and some bought items from our doggy related stock on sale. A couple of people showed interest in volunteering for Funda Nenja which is always much appreciated.
As South Africa marks three decades since the historic 1994 elections that ended apartheid and ushered in a new era of democracy, citizens who participated in that pivotal moment reflect on their experiences and share their thoughts on the current state of the nation. Their memories and insights are contrasted by the aspirations of a new generation of voters born into freedom.
For many South Africans, the memory of April 27, 1994, remains vivid. Eighty-year-old Elizabeth Zuma recalls the day with a sense of triumph and unity. "It was the first time in my life that I felt like my voice truly mattered. Standing in line for hours, seeing people of all races waiting together, it was as if the whole nation was taking a deep breath of freedom for the first time."
Hlengiwe Ndlela (66), a former counsellor of ward 8 in Mpophomeni Township, shares a similar sentiment. "We have seen a huge difference since 1994, especially in the black communities. Things such as proper gravel roads and grants were only given to a certain race group before we became a democratic country,” she explained. As much as Ndlela claims to see progressive change in our country since 1994, she believes that our government can and should be doing more for the youth. “Of course there is still room for improvement for our government. I would like to see more job opportunities being created for the youth because there are far too many graduates without jobs,” she added.
Despite the initial euphoria, many who voted in 1994 acknowledge that the journey since then has been fraught with challenges. "We achieved political freedom, but economic freedom has been much harder to attain," says Thembekile Ngcobo. "The inequality and unemployment are not what we fought for. It's disheartening to see corruption and mismanagement tarnish the dream we had."
Looking at the road ahead, the aspirations of the youth reflect a desire for both continuity and change. Mlondi Madlala, a 20-year-old university student from Umgungundlovu TVET College, represents the generation born into a democratic South Africa. "I've grown up with the benefits of the freedoms that were fought for in 1994. But we need more than just the right to vote. I want to see a South Africa where everyone has access to quality education, healthcare, and job opportunities."
Mlondi believes that R350 grant money that unemployed South Africans receive, could be used to create more job opportunities. “The grant money that is given to unemployed people could be used to invest in small businesses so that they can expand, and more job opportunities can be created through that,” he explains.
As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy, the reflections of those who lived through its birth and the dreams of those shaping its future offer a moving reminder that the journey is ongoing. The nation has made significant strides, but the road ahead remains long and complex.
As the nation heads to the polls once again, the blend of reflections and aspirations underscores the resilience and determination of South Africans to forge a future that honours the past while striving for a better tomorrow.
Pictured above L-R: Elizabeth Zuma and Hlengiwe Ndlela.
Author and photo credit: Nonjabulo Myeni, pictured here RHS.
About the Author:
I'm a passionate journalism student dedicated to using my voice to amplify the stories of often overlooked communities. My work centers on the belief that every story matters, and I strive to bring attention to the unique challenges and triumphs of those who are often unheard. I have a keen interest in the transformative power of arts, culture, and sports, especially for the youth. Through my reporting, I aim to highlight how these elements can inspire, unite, and empower young people, fostering a sense of identity and community.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many found themselves in dreadful financial situations. However, for Nonhlanhla Mchunu (47), it became an opportunity to start a business and support her family. Using money that she borrowed from her neighbours during the pandemic, Nonhlanhla, with the unwavering support of her husband, Mthokozisi, managed to open a Tuckshop that has since become an important part of her community.
Nonhlanhla had always dreamed of running her own business. The money that she borrowed was a small but essential starting point. "I had no job and no form of income. I had to borrow the money I used to start my Tuckshop,” recalls Nonhlanhla. "Eventually I was able to buy things that the community needed by saving my profits," she added. Mthokozisi, proud of his wife’s determination, states, "I am proud of my wife, and I try by all means to support her where I can."
The Tuckshop, located in the heart of the community of Mpophomeni township, has become a vital resource for many families. Mchunu's business has even expanded to include the sale of chickens and gas tanks. Local resident, Nokuthula Duma, highlights how important the store is to her. "I buy things to make sandwiches for my children from her Tuckshop because it is close and convenient." The store provides essential goods, saving residents time and travel expenses, which was especially crucial during the pandemic when movement was restricted.
Nonhlanhla’s cousin, Senzo Madlala, shares his own form of support: "I buy cigarettes from her store every day just to show support to my cousin." The support that she receives from her family is integral to the functioning of the store and the functioning of Nonhlanhla.
Running the Tuckshop has not been easy. Break-ins have been a significant issue, leading Nonhlanhla to take extreme measures to protect her livelihood. "People broke into my store several times. I ended up sleeping in my store to make sure everything is safe," Nonhlanhla recounts. Despite these setbacks, her determination remains unbroken.
The community’s support has been a cornerstone of the Tuckshop’s success. "The community has been incredibly supportive," says Nonhlanhla. "They even give me suggestions on what to stock up on so that they can buy from my Tuckshop, rather than going to the store." From regular customers to neighbours offering help, the Tuckshop is a testament to the collective spirit that has helped many small businesses thrive during these challenging times.
Mchunu’s Tuckshop is more than just a store; it is a symbol of resilience and community solidarity. It stands as a beacon of hope, showing that with determination, support, and a little bit of help, dreams can be realised even in the most challenging circumstances.
Author and photo credit: Nonjabulo Myeni, pictured here RHS.
About the Author:
I'm a passionate journalism student dedicated to using my voice to amplify the stories of often overlooked communities. My work centers on the belief that every story matters, and I strive to bring attention to the unique challenges and triumphs of those who are often unheard. I have a keen interest in the transformative power of arts, culture, and sports, especially for the youth. Through my reporting, I aim to highlight how these elements can inspire, unite, and empower young people, fostering a sense of identity and community.
It’s a passion of Tess’s to be able to capture a moment in time with the aid of photography; the outcome being, to capture the imagination and to leave a lasting impression on the viewer.
Visit ART in the Country, 22 -25 May 2025 at Harrington House on the Hilton College road.
Jan Airton, a local artist from Hilton will be exhibiting at this years Harcourts Hilton ART in the Country. This will be Jan’s third year exhibiting… her love of animals can be seen in her paintings.
To view Jan's latest creations - visit ART in the Country, 22 -25 May 2025 at Harrington House on the Hilton College road.
'We certainly covered Piggly Wiggly in blankets! Thank you and well done to everyone who participated.
The final tally was 267 blankets. We still have 200 plus squares to sew up!
Sean from the Round Table along with fellow members will be distributing the blankets when the first cold snap comes.
The winners are the 267 people who will be a little warmer this winter.' said Gill Pryke at the close of the Piggly Wiggly Blanket Appeal 2024 event.
Pictured top left: Hilton Round Tablers collecting all the blankets.
Below top to bottom: Amazing supporters included Pevensey Place residents all the way from Underberg, Sunfield Home from Howick, talented local marimab band Music Voyage, and providing support behind the scenes is Rudi Kassier from Piggly Wiggly.
Photo credit: Stephen Pryke Photography - This amazingly talented photographer can be found on some weekends at the Piggly Wiggly retail outlet of Glass Cuttings!
Please direct any questions and offers of assistance for Piggly Wiggly Warm Embrace to Gill Pryke on 082 254 4798.
You’re invited to a Hill’s Pet Parent Talk on "Fighting the effects of ageing in our senior pets" at Midlands Veterinary Hospital
🔹Saturday 25 May 2024
🔹1-3pm
🔹Eats and Drinks provided
🔹Lots of goodies and freebies
Book today email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 0333306184
https://www.facebook.com/events/765046799051087/
Another round of league games finished and not many left to go.
Our ladies team played on Saturday and Sunday and whilst they didn’t add many points to the log, all our players put in their absolute best efforts. The team captain, Lisa Nagel skipped against one of the district’s top bowlers on Sunday and had a great game with some absolute “cracker” shots. Well done Lisa and team and best of luck for your next and final round at the end of the week.
Our men’s team had a different experience in their game against Maritzburg Bowling Club, where they added a fantastic ten points to the log. Well done chaps! It’s so great for us to have a nice win under our belts this season and here’s to next week where we hope we see more of the same.
We’re all set to welcome Duzi Pigeon Racing Club to our activity list from next week and have also decided to change our social Hillbillie bowlers to a Thursday. Unfortunately, another local club decided our social bowls on a Wednesday was a winning recipe and so, you guessed it… they have started the exact same thing on the same day! In any event, we’ve made the decision to move our social bowlers to a Thursday, starting from 4.30pm, and followed by a bring and braai afterwards. Hillbilles is a great place for new and prospective bowlers to get a feel for the game, learn the basics and have a really good time. Anyone wanting to give it a try or join us can contact Wendy on 071 353 2866 for more information.
That’s all for this week… see you on the greens!
Events to keep an eye out for…
Friday, 31 May: Dormehl Nominated 2 Bowl Trips. Tabs In 08h45 (Book with Pippa on 083 467 8140)
Regular tabs in times are:-
Tuesdays at 08h45
Wednesdays at 13h15
Saturdays at 13h15.
Visitors are always welcome. Coaching by registered coaches is available.
For more information or enquiries about coaching, contact Ann on 071 676 5591.
Pictured here: Some of our hillbilles enjoying a social game of 4-3-2-1.
Well done to Gill Pryke of Glass Cuttings at Piggly Wiggly, pictured here with Robyn Day on the left (MUSHKA's driving force, who made 47 blankets from donated fleece) and Judi Joubert in the middle. This amazing lady is an artist and business owner who has a full day every day, and yet made time to fit in co-ordinating her long-held vision of a yarn bomb event for charity at Piggly Wiggly, which looks festive wrapped up in lovingly stitched blankets.
Thank you's are due to so many more also - there have been numerous supporters of this heartfelt drive. From those who donated wool, to Sew What for the wool discount and for being a collection/drop off point along with Village Talk, to the muscle power behind stringing up lines upon which the blankets are displayed, to Increda-Peg for their extraordinarily useful pegs, to Terri at the Piggly coffee shop who has shown bottomless enthusaism and given away litres of coffee for this blanket appeal, to every knitter and stitcher... and the precious folk at Pevensy Place and Sunfield Home who also brought blankets to donate. This has been the success of a whole team.
Hilton Round Table will collect the blankets at the end of the day tomorrow to ensure they reach the most needy communities. How polite of winter to join in by holding back on the chilly weather that is expected at this time of year!
