June 2020 - Highway Durban

This month we... 

Share our fave 

ONLINE BUYS 

Talk skin care 

MASKS 

Discover a 

BONSAI OAIS and... 

WE HERO OUR 

DADS 

WIN 

a fantabulous 

Fathers’ Day 

hamper 

JUNE 2020

CONTENTS 

GET IT 

Editorial 

Phone 031 716 4444 

Address 115 Escom Road 

New Germany • Pinetown 

Facebook: Get It Durban 

Instagram: @getit_durban 

Pinterest: getitdurban 

Website: www.durban.getitonline.co.za 

Editor Wanda Daly 

wandad@dbn.caxton.co.za 

Journalist 

Bronwyn Forbes-Hardinge 

getit@dbn.caxton.co.za 

WHY DON’T YOU... 

2 Jolly good fun to be had at home this June 

6 Don’t skip book club. Order novels online and then Facetime or 

Houseparty ... great fun! 

WISH LIST 

8 It’s officially* spoil-yourself-June (*actually we made that up!) 

PEOPLE 

10 Meet Gordon Reid, a dad with a heart for helping others 

12 Elaine Kool’s nature-inspired passion 

SHOPPING AND BEAUTY 

14 21 online buys on our most wanted list this month 

20 Masks for glowing skin 

Sales Manager Giles Thomas 

031 716 4464 or 083 632 5931 

gilest@dbn.caxton.co.za 

Advertising Christine Kelly 

031 716 4598 or 082 972 1266 

christinek@dbn.caxton.co.za 

Layout and Design 

Jesslyn Samuel 

Sharon Trollip 

GET IT HEAD OFFICE 

National Group Editor 

and National Sales 

Kym Argo 

kyma@caxton.co.za 

Cover Model 

Gordon Reid and his daughters, 

Amy and Erin 

Cover Photographer 

Penny Katz of Penny Katz Photography 

pennykatzphotography.myportfolio.com 

pennykatzphotography@gmail.com 

Instagram: pennykatzphotography 

083 214 0692 

Get It Highway, Durban North, Berea is 

distributed free of charge. For a full list of 

where it’s distributed phone 031 716 4444 

JUNE 2020 

HEALTH, FOOD & DRINK 

29 Milky Way 

30 Cooking up a storm 

32 Eat in! 

36 Super smoothies 

DECOR & GARDENING 

38 Decor & your mood 

40 A jungle of living art 

44 The sweet-scented hyacinth 

46 Dig it! 

PETS 

48 Woof! Man’s best friend never looked this good! 

TRAVEL 

50 Well-travelled 

WIN 

26 Dear Dad... 

52 June Spoil: wine for your old man 

Photographer/Image credit: 

00 Get It Sandton • Rosebank Month 08 

June 2020 Get It Highway • Berea • Durban North 01

A hot date! 

Jolly good fun to be had at home this June 

Amazing online cooking experience 

For an extraordinary online cooking experience, 

you shouldn’t miss courses by Sandy’s Kitchen ... 

an hour of pure culinary pleasure! An enormously 

popular caterer, Sandy has been giving online 

courses during lockdown ... she’s gone Middle 

Eastern with Pinina’s tabbouleh and Indian with 

lamb Madras, beaten the winter chills with lamb 

shank cassoulet and posh with smoked salmon 

and dill tart. The live, online demos are held on 

Fridays from 10am to 11am, and cost R150. You’ll 

need to book prior to the event on WhatsApp 082- 

882-0238 and the themes are given in advance on 

Sandy’s Instagram page (sandyskitchensa). 

Virtual roses 

Nothing beats being able to wander down 

rows of roses, inhaling their perfume. But 

then along came travel restrictions, personal 

distancing and face masks. So now, although 

all its outlets are open for a real rose fix, 

Ludwig’s Roses has gone virtual. That means 

you can browse the rose catalogue on-line, 

and order roses on-line for delivery or kerbside 

collection. For ‘how to’ advice on almost every 

aspect of rose growing – from planting to 

spraying, transplanting and pruning – visit 

www.ludwigsroses.co.za and click on the 

YouTube social media icon. Once you’ve been 

inspired, order away. Delivery in the metro 

areas is free for orders of R1000 or more. 

A game drive ... in your living room 

For an authentic experience in nature, these awesome nature live 

streams will let you experience the great outdoors from the comfort 

of your sofa. 

Naledi – Cat Eye Camera has been set up at the eye level of a 

leopard to give you a sense of the size of the different creatures 

that visit the waterhole. It’s at the Naledi game lodge in the gamerich 

greater Kruger conservancy, so marvellous viewing. Cheetah, 

lions, elephant, giraffe, impala, baboons, warthog and owls have all 

been spotted recently, along with genets, meercats, waterbuck and 

porcupines. Tune in: youtu.be/8UFA66bi-0g 

Also try the Nkorho Bush Lodge site, which is in the Sabi Sand 

private game reserve. This camera is equipped with infrared 

technology, allowing you to take a look at the watering hole at night. 

The area is famous for Big Five viewing, and birdlife is abundant. 

Tune in: youtu.be/gUZjDCZEMDA 

02 Get It Highway • Berea • Durban North June 2020

Virtual art expos 

We’ve found three local virtual art exhibitions you can enjoy without 

leaving your laptop… 

Banele Khoza’s gallery/shop/studio/artist project in vibey 

Braamfontein, done out in soft pastels, is a light and airy space for the 

expression of creativity. You can view the current exhibition, Blue is 

the Warmest Colour, with works by artists such as Vusi Beauchamp, 

Nelson Makamo and Jodi Bieber ... well worth an hour or so. 

Details: bkhz.art/virtual-tours 

The Norval Foundation is offering #60SecondArt digital stories via 

YouTube, Instagram and Facebook, giving art lovers knowledge clips 

on a specific artist, painting, or sculpture. The art being discussed 

either forms part of the Homestead Collection, or is art currently on 

display. Or you could take a virtual tour of the foundation’s beautiful 

Cape Town grounds. We’d recommend you do both. 

Details: w.norvalfoundation.org/virtual-tour/ 

Walk around Standard Bank Art Gallery’s 3D experience which 

showcases its Lumières d’Afriques Exhibition. Click on selected tiles 

to stand in front of each artwork and read about the artist and the 

work itself. There are 54 works from artists across the African continent 

to marvel at. All the pieces were made under the theme, The Light of 

Africa. Details: my.matterport.com/show/?m=KoMFpZVX3JY 

The Big Flower Fight is going to be a big 

blooming joy to watch. This is to flower lovers 

what The Great British Bake Off is to bakers. 

It’s a (friendly) floral fight between 10 pairs of 

florists, sculptors and garden designers, who 

pull out all the stops to see who can build the 

biggest, boldest and most beautiful garden 

sculptures. There are challenges including 

woodwork, floristry and landscaping, and the 

competitors will be encouraged to use plants 

and materials that are earth-friendly. Each 

week a team will be eliminated ... leading up 

to an exciting floral finale, when one team 

will win the flower crown! It started on May 

18 on Netflix which means you’ve got a few 

episodes to binge watch. 


New on Showmax 

Season one of Run is a top Showmax choice 

this month. Seventeen years ago, college 

sweethearts, Ruby and Billy made a pact – if 

either of them ever texted the word RUN 

and the other replied with the same word, 

they would drop everything, board the first 

train after 5pm out of Grand Central Station, 

and travel across America together. But 

they’re about to discover that the reality of 

taking that leap may not be quite how they 

pictured it. 

Insecure (S4) is an insightful, raunchy, 

and hilarious journey through the life of 

a 20-something black woman that cuts 

through stereotypes with sharp wit and an 

effusive spirit. 

From David Simon and Ed Burns – award 

-winning creators of The Wire – comes 

The Plot Against America (S1), an alternate 

history story in which Franklin D Roosevelt 

loses the 1940 US presidential election to 

Nazi sympathiser Charles Lindbergh. What 

follows is the terrifying and tension-building 

tale of the country’s turn to fascism, told 

through the eyes of a working-class Jewish 

family in New Jersey in the build-up to World 

War 2. 

In season one of The Outsiders, police 

detective Ralph Anderson is still grieving the 

death of his own son when the mutilated 

body of 11-year-old Frankie Peterson is 

found in the Georgia woods. The mysterious 

circumstances surrounding the horrifying 

crime lead Ralph to bring in unorthodox 

private investigator Holly Gibney to help 

explain the inexplicable. 

Golden Globe nominee Patrick Dempsey 

(McDreamy in Grey’s Anatomy) and 

Alessandro Borghi (Suburra), co-star in 

season one of Devils, an adaptation of the 

best-selling book by Italian trader Guido 

Maria Brera – an insider’s look at the world of 

millionaire bankers. 

In Billions season five, Bobby Axelrod and 

Chuck Rhoades see their vicious rivalry 

reignited, while new enemies rise and 

take aim. The struggle for power becomes 

a struggle for survival, and all characters 

must adapt or risk extinction. Look out for 

Golden Globe winner Julianna Margulies 

(The Good Wife, Hot Zone) as Catherine Brant, 

an Ivy League sociology professor and 

bestselling author. 

‘Good Kenyan girls become good Kenyan 

wives,’ but Kena and Ziki long for something 

more. When love blossoms between them in 

Rafiki, the two girls will be forced to choose 

between happiness and safety. 

Our best of Netflix 

Netflix series and movies we can’t get enough of... 

... and 

binge! 

New Girl 

If you fancy a classic, you can’t go wrong with Modern Family. This Emmywinning 

sitcom about Jay Pritchett and his eclectic family dealing with 

the challenges of contemporary life in Los Angeles, stars Ed O’Neill, Sofía 

Vergara, and Julie Bowen. 

Great fun ... filmed in a loft in downtown LA, New Girl revolves around the 

quirky Jessica Day, who moves in with three single guys. With 146 episodes 

to watch, this will keep you entertained for months! 

The sci-fi anthology series Black Mirror is exceptionally creepy. It explores 

a twisted, high-tech near-future, where humanity’s greatest innovations 

and darkest instincts collide. 

How to Get Away with Murder – all you need know is it’s a Shonda 

Rhimes legal drama/thriller. What more could you want? Staring Viola 

Davis as Annalise Keating, a law professor at a prestigious university in 

Philadelphia who, along with a handful of her students, gets involved in a 

murder plot. Unmissable! 

In Last Breath, a commercial deep sea diver is stranded on the seabed. He 

has five minutes of oxygen, but there’s no chance of rescue for more than 

half an hour. With access to amazing archives, this is the true story of one 

man’s impossible fight for survival. 


Book club 

Don’t skip book club. Order novels online and then 

Facetime or Houseparty ... great fun! 

Ellie is perfectly happy, living a quiet life with her husband, Clive. 

Well, she does sometimes wonder about the way he talks to her, 

and about all the things she hasn’t yet achieved. But she’s happy 

enough. Dan is definitely content. He has a predictable, ordered 

existence, making harps in his isolated barn on Exmoor, and he’s 

more than happy being on his own, far away from other people 

and, crucially, far away from any risk of surprises. Then a chance 

meeting changes everything. Ellie and the Harp Maker is an 

enchanting, endearing story ... perfect for a lazy afternoon read. 

R195. • When Katie Straw’s body is pulled from the waters of the 

local suicide spot, the police decide it’s an open-and-shut case. 

A standard-issue female suicide. But the residents of Widringham 

women’s refuge, where Katie worked, don’t agree. They say it’s 

murder. Jessica Moor’s Keeper is a feminist thriller that asks what 

justice looks like in a system blinkered by prejudice, a literary 

page-turner about a crime as shocking as it is commonplace. 

R290 • One son lied. One son died. Alice’s son is dead. Indigo’s 

son is accused of murder. But Indigo is determined to prove her 

beloved Kane is innocent. Searching for evidence, she’s helped 

by a kind stranger who takes an interest in her situation. Little 

does she know that her new friend, Alice, has her own agenda. 

Alice obviously can’t tell Indigo who she really is, but she wants to 

understand why her son was killed, and she needs to make sure 

that Indigo’s efforts to free Kane don’t put her remaining family at 

risk. But how long will it take for Indigo to discover her identity? And what other secrets will 

come out as she digs deeper? No one knows a son like his mother. But neither Alice nor 

Indigo know the whole truth about their boys, and what happened between them on that 

fateful night. Emily Koch’s Keep Him Close is a great psychological thriller about love, hate 

and forgiveness. R290. • Micah Mortimer isn’t the most polished person you’ll ever meet. 

He measures out his days running errands for work, maintaining an impeccable cleaning 

regime and going for runs (7.15, every morning). He’s content with the steady balance of 

his life. But then the order of things starts to tilt. His woman friend Cassia (he refuses to call 

anyone in her late thirties a ‘girlfriend’) tells him she’s facing eviction because of a cat. Then 

a teenager shows up at Micah’s door claiming to be his son, a surprise Micah seems poorly 

equipped to handle. Redhead by the Side of the Road is an intimate look into the heart 

and mind of a man who sometimes finds those around him just out of reach – and a love 

story about the differences that make us all unique. R290. 

You can order books online for delivery to your home from loot.co.za, takealot.com, 

readerswarehouse.co.za and exclusivebooks.co.za. 

The FAT bastard Chenin Blanc 2018 was blended from a a selection of the best wine 

from the year’s ripe harvest, and is described as ‘a taste of sunshine’. All juicy yellow peach, 

vanilla and fresh lime, we’re drinking it at this month’s book club. Let’s face it, we all need a 

ray of sunshine in our lives right now. Lovely with a prawn curry or a smoked salmon dish. 

Between around R85 and R95 from you local wine store. 


Physics genius Caro Kerber-Murphy knows she’s smart. With straight As and a college scholarship already in the bag, she’s 

meeting her two dads’ colossal expectations and then some. But there’s one test she’s never quite been able to ace. Love. 

Then, in a particularly desperate moment, Caro discovers a (definitely questionable) scientific breakthrough that promises 

to make you irresistible to everyone around you. Could this, she wonders, be the key? What happens next will change 

everything Caro thought she knew about chemistry – in the lab and in love. By Comedy Women in Print prize-winner Laura 

Steven, The Love Hypothesis is a LGBT romantic comedy with a twist. R140 • Twenty years ago, Abigail Sorenson’s brother, 

Robert, went missing one day before her sixteenth birthday, never to be seen again. That same year, she began receiving 

scattered chapters in the mail from a mysterious guidebook, whose anonymous authors promised to make her life soar 

to heights beyond her wildest dreams. Now, two decades after receiving those first pages, Abi is invited to learn ‘the truth’ 

about the book. It’s an opportunity too intriguing to refuse. What follows in Jaclyn Moriarty’s Gravity Is The Thing is an 

entirely unexpected journey of discovery that will change Abi’s life. R330 • Beautiful, rich and popular, Anna K lives and plays 

in the dizzying heights of New York’s Upper East Side, where privilege, partying and scandal rule. Anna knows every rule 

by heart – and takes care to maintain her status as the perfect girlfriend, daughter and student. Then a chance encounter 

at Grand Central station with notorious playboy Alexi ‘Count’ Vronsky changes everything. Anna knows she needs to 

avoid Alexi, but sometimes fate has other plans. Soon Anna finds it impossible to resist him, and finds herself willing to risk 

everything she has to be with him – no matter the consequences. A lovely new read by Jenny Lee. R175. 

Compiled by: KYM ARGO 


Wish list 

It’s officially* spoil-yourself-June 

(*actually we made that up!) 

We’re not heading to an island any 

time soon, but that doesn’t stop 

us dreaming. Which we’ll do 

while wearing these Delicious 

Amazon Fronds ... big 

(an eye-catching 90mm 

long), bold, statement 

earrings. R400 from 

auroracraftedjewellery.co.za 

If we’re going to wear masks, they’re 

going to DAZZLE! We want a 

collection of gorgeous masks ... bright, 

sexy, eye-catching designs are what 

we’re after, and we’ve found, and love, 

the Dollhouse Designer masks, R160 

from elizabethsummer.com. (While 

you’re there, look for the fabulous 

children’s masks and shields, too.) 

08 Get It Highway • Berea • Durban North June 2020 

The cooler months call for a 

switch from crisp, light whites to 

a creamier, more textured wine. 

Tokara Chardonnay 2018 fits the 

bill perfectly. Aged in predominantly 

older oak barrels, it’s all fresh 

clementine, grapefruit and hints 

of ginger spice, it’s a perfect taste 

partner with fish and chicken, and a 

winner as an aperitif. R110 a bottle, 

order online and delivery will be after 

lockdown restrictions have been 

lifted. Details: tokara.com

A Perfect Stay ... armchair travel has never been this luxurious 

We’re sure you, like us, are just 

longing to travel. To escape for a 

few days from our (albeit lovely) 

homes, and enjoy some time out 

somewhere gorgeous – and taking 

full advantage of the joy of allowing 

someone else to spoil us. Not quite, 

but almost as good as the real thing, 

is settling down and dipping into 

this incredible glimpse of the Royal 

Portfolio. A collection of luxurious 

South African destinations created by 

Liz Biden and owned by her and her 

husband, Phil, the collection started 

with renting out a few rooms of the 

couple’s family home in the Kruger, 

a project started by Liz when she 

retired, and which resulted in the 

opening of Royal Malewane almost 

21 years ago. She then went on to 

renovate and open up more of their 

private properties – a beach house 

in Hermanus, then a wine farm in 

Franschhoek. The Silo Hotel in Cape 

Town’s V&A Waterfront completes 

the portfolio ... this one purchased 

because, as Phil pointed out, ‘holiday 

homes are one thing – but we didn’t 

want to give up our family home too’! 

A Perfect Stay is a peek into each 

hotel, at the glamorous lifestyles, 

the guests (Sir Elton John and David 

Furnish are regulars, and rave in the 

book’s foreword), the hospitality. ‘Our 

hotels are not just about the beautiful 

spaces. Our hotels are soulful,’ writes 

Liz. Soulful, relaxing, luxurious spots in 

iconic SA locations. Just perfect. R800 

from theroyalportfolio.com 

Beat lockdown calories 

... these Fitch & Leedes 

Sugar Free mixers are 

low in calories (less 

than one in a can of 

the Indian Tonic, while 

the Pink Tonic and 

Bitter Lemon have just 

five calories) but taste 

superb. Amazing for 

a guilt-free G&T, but 

they make refreshing 

Quarantini mocktails, 

too. You’ll find them at 

your local supermarket 

for around R48 for 

a six pack, but can 

buy online too, on 

fitchleedes.co.za 

Compiled by KYM ARGO 


Meet Gordon Reid, 

a dad with a heart for helping others 

Whether it’s raising funds for the Childhood Cancer Foundation of South Africa (CHOC) 

or rescuing the survivors of a plane crash, there’s nothing Gordon Reid wouldn’t do to 

help others in need. He shares his journey through a healthy midlife crisis and why 

showing his daughters the good in the world, is his favourite part of being a dad. 

arenthood is the 

hardest thing you 

will do in your life 

but it is also the most 

rewarding. I remember 

my days as a youth. I was a 

complete and utter rebel. 

I loved school for sport 

and friends, but the studying got in 

the way. Sadly, I only developed my 

competitive streak later in life, but 

I’m confident my girls will find their 

passions, discover their potentials 

and realise their dreams way 

before I ever did.’ 

Self-confessed eternal optimist, Gords (as 

everybody calls him) is one of Durban North’s 

most popular and well-liked digital marketing 

entrepreneurs. At 47, he’s husband to Simone 

and father to Amy (15) and Erin (13) who are 

incredibly proud of what he has achieved 

and how hard he strives to help change the 

lives of others. 

‘I’m an entrepreneur and have been in sales 

most of my life. I love networking, connecting 

with like-minded people and meeting new 

people. A huge part of my life is also dedicated 

to helping others. But, there was a time when I 

never really thought about doing the things I do 

now. I guess I was a little self-centered.’ 

That all changed for Gordon 15 years ago 

when he and a handful of others helped 

rescue a family after the light aircraft 

they were being flown in crashed into 

a house near Virginia Airport. 

‘We watched in horror as it all 

happened. It was a sickening 

feeling. Being close by, we were 

among the first on scene and 

began helping the family out of 

the wreckage. t was only later on 

that I realised how important a 

cool head is in a hectic situation.’ 

After undergoing five surgeries 

in just one year, Gordon, aged 

40, decided it was time to 

embark on a ‘healthy midlife 

crisis’. 

‘I saw a picture of a friend 

cycling in a Cow suit and 

thought it looked like fun. The 

CHOC Cows just happened to 

be launching in KZN so i went 

to see what all the hype was 

about. 


‘The herd’s slogan is 

#LoveLivingLife, and they believe we 

should be pushing ourselves and 

living to the max to honour children 

fighting cancer. Cycling in the cow 

kit takes the competitive element 

out of the races, and allows us to 

have fun and focus our passion on 

creating cancer awareness.“ 

Each year the herd of splotchy 

cows cycle in various races like 

the Tour Durban, Tsogo Sun 

Amashova Cycle Race and the 

94.7 Cycle Challenge to raise funds 

for the organisation. (Comrades, 

and Midmar mile are huge for 

Cows. Cape Epic, Fish River Canoe 

Marathon, Dusi Canoe marathon 

and just about anything anyone 

wants to do are also done in Cow 

print. 

‘I’ve also completed several 

Midmar Miles and Midlands Ultra 

Triathlons to raise funds for the 

‘moo’vement. Seven years later, I’ve 

done more than 4500km in a Cow 

suit, and together with the KZN 

committee, raised in excess of R7 

million for CHOC.’ 

Understanding the purpose 

behind the charity, Gordon says, is 

the driving force that inspires him 

and his fellow herd members to do 

more, and to challenge themselves 

to push their limits. And what 

makes it even more doable, is the 

fact that he is supported, and often 

joined by Simone and the girls. 

‘My wife is driven and successful, 

my kids are my grounding, and 

new opportunities, challenges and 

experiences keep me motivated. 

Also, to be able to show my wife 

and kids how much awareness we 

can create through small actions 

is very rewarding. They have 

always supported my crazy ideas, 

adventures and choices, and I love 

them even more for that.’ 

‘I recently stepped down from the 

CHOC Cow Committee to focus 

my efforts in fundraising for various 

charities, and in 2019 founded 

Get Hands On Events. Through 

coordinating, implementing, 

and participating in a 24-hour 

Handcycle Relay Race I hosted, our 

team raised more than R50 000 for 

Ethembeni School for physically 

disabled and visually impaired 

children in Cato Ridge.’ 

Pre-lockdown, Gordon developed and sold two concept events to eight 

out of the 11 largest malls in South Africa. They were meant to have their 

inaugural event at Gateway Theatre of Shopping in May and then take 

things countrywide, but the Coronavirus pandemic scuppered their plans. 

‘I’m currently pitching to investors to develop an app so that I can take Get 

Hands On Events around the world. I’m fascinated with where the online 

space is moving. Tech is the future of eventing, so we have to adapt or diejust 

like we’ve had to with lockdown. Lockdown Level 5 was wake up and 

work, followed by exercise. Level 4 was wake up and exercise followed by 

work and I’m hoping Level 3 will put an end to all the balls I’m juggling right 

now.’ 

‘My dad always taught me that hard work pays dividends, but working 

smarter is the way to go. He also used to remind me that if I chased my 

passion, I’d never work a day in my life. He opened my eyes to the fact that 

we are never too old for a happy childhood. I think kids grow up too quickly 

nowadays and forget to be kids, so I’m always the first to have a little fun 

with my girls and try to be the oldest kid in the house.’ 

‘I love that each of my girls is completely unique. Amy is outgoing, 

confident, easy going and lives life to the full. Erin is quietly confident, 

patient, artistic and has a hidden competitive streak. Being there to guide 

them and show them all the good in the world is my favourite part about 

being their dad. Life is incredible, and made even more special by sharing a 

positive outlook and mindset with them.’ 

I’m always the first to have a little fun with my 

girls and try to be the oldest kid in the house. 

When it comes to what makes a great dad, Gordon says being present, 

listening, gently guiding and allowing mistakes to happen without judging 

is so important. Acknowledging our own flaws and encouraging each 

other’s best character traits and achievements, he says is also essential to the 

wellbeing and happiness of all. 

‘As kids, celebrating Father’s Day was often spent working with my dad, just 

so we could be close to him. Now, with kids of my own, Father’s Day has a 

much greater impact on me because my girls go out of their way to make 

the day extra special. We do the typical breakfast in bed, followed by the less 

traditional ‘let’s do something I feel like today but that mum will also enjoy. It 

works!’ 

Given how much most people have had to give up during lockdown, 

and how much life has changed, Gordon says his Father’s Day desires 

are nothing more than a swim in the sea, followed by breakfast and an 

afternoon braai with his family. 

‘If the restrictions have taught us anything, it is that we can live with less, 

materially, and that we benefit more emotionally from quality time together. 

I don’t see the need for expensive offices anymore. Not much will change 

from Level 4 to Level 3 I don’t think, but I’d really like to see my hairdresser 

and take my dog to the parlor and of course, when it’s safe to go anywhere 

for a weekend getaway, the first place we’ll be going to is the Midlands.’ 

‘The time we managed to spend together as a family during lockdown has 

actually been incredible. It’s time we wouldn’t have had together. We did 

it all - triathlons, runs, yoga sessions, reading, tanning, home brewing, soul 

searching, camp-outs and DIY for days. The house is immaculate and it’s 

been great to have had time to do all of the things we don’t normally have 

time for. Besides the financial pressure and uncertainty of being locked up, 

we have loved it as a family and will have simpler lives going forward.’ 


NATURE INSPIRED 

Elaine Kool’s passion for biodiversity borders on militancy – she’s fiercely protective of 

every living organism found in nature and has channeled her love, energy and artistic 

eye for detail into a range of silver jewellery, each piece with its own unique story. 

er beautiful Everton 

home nestles in a wild 

indigenous garden 

where every tree, 

plant and shrub has 

been planted with 

the knowledge of the 

species it will attract to 

the garden. It is a veritable living 

world, alive with the sounds of 

birds, the gentle buzzing of bees 

and insects, spider webs that glisten 

in the sun’s rays and even a Praying 

Mantis makes an appearance as she 

shares her remarkable story. 

Born into a farming environment 

in Zimbabwe, Elaine was exposed 

to all kinds of creatures and plants 

that formed her earliest love of the 

African bush. ‘By profession I am 

a gold- and silversmith,’ she says, 

nodding towards the door leading 

to her workshop filled with the tools 

of her trade and her latest project, 

an Elephant Mosquito … ‘Just two 

weeks ago I spotted this massive 

mosquito in my garden. I couldn’t 

believe the size of it or, as I got 

close-up, its beautiful colours. I did 

some research to discover that it 

actually feeds on other mosquitoes 

and is also a pollinator,’ she explains, 

launching into a tirade of how 

important every organism is in 

maintaining the balance in nature, 

and how ignorant most people 

are in destroying them, thereby 

impacting negatively on the food 

chain. 

‘Every piece of my jewellery is a 

talking point and each has a story 

attached which I pass on to the 

person buying it. In this way, I hope 

to educate people to become 

more aware of how important 

every organism is to our survival as 

human beings.’ 


Elaine’s fascination for the shapes of insects, 

plants and stones found in the country is the 

force behind Kool Kulture and her Khameleon 

jewellery range which she sells online and at 

the Shongweni Farmers’ Market on the first and 

last Saturdays of the month. 

Each individually crafted item is unique and 

a true reflection of the characteristics of the 

study piece. From the tiny breathing holes 

found dotted across the thorax of the hawk 

moth, to the miniscule hairs on the legs of the 

elephant mosquito, Elaine’s eye for detail is 

painstakingly evident. 

Her range includes the ever-popular 

butterflies and dragonflies, ‘I have an 

ongoing love affair with the Hawk Moth,’ 

she says, touching the piece that she wears 

around her neck. There was the frogs and 

chameleon stage, birds of prey, the cutest bees 

… “have you seen how gorgeous the blue bum 

bee is?” and a unique range of flies which had a 

group of entomologists in a froth as they lined 

up to purchase the little critters. 

‘I’m happy to make up something special 

on request for individuals and have created 

some interesting items for special birthday 

celebrations and anniversaries,’ she says. 

Her creativity knows no bounds. Apart from 

her jewellery design and manufacturing, 

Elaine has dabbled in a number of creative 

arts. The walls of her home are adorned with 

some of her paintings, her workshop shares 

space with a sewing machine and overlocker 

… ‘I like to make my own clothes’ and she 

has also experimented with medicinal plants, 

developing a range of cosmetics. 

‘I blame my dad. Growing up on a farm we 

did everything ourselves.’ 

She also admits to having a go at making 

pottery and keeps her hands busy while 

watching TV with knitting or crocheting. 

Every piece of 

my jewellery is a 

talking point and 

each has a story 

‘I just can’t sit still!’ 

Creative pursuits aside, it is 

outdoors where she thrives and 

finds herself in her element, 

surrounded by the beauty of our 

natural environment. She is actively 

involved in conservation pursuits 

and an enthusiastic member of 

local environmental groups and 

societies. 

‘Every day is a learning experience 

for me. There is always something 

new and fascinating to see or 

explore, whether it’s an unusual 

caterpillar, some unwelcome aphids 

appearing on a plant, or a visiting 

bird … it never ceases to amaze and 

delight me.’ 

When she does settle down to 

relax, Elaine says she enjoys reading. 

The bookshelves around her home 

are filled with titles that reflect her 

interest in the natural world around 

her. ‘I love to read books that are 

interesting and informative. It must 

be half story and half science,’ she 

says laughing. 

Her family is another joy in her 

life and her creative pursuits and 

passion for the environment 

have been passed on to her two 

daughters who in turn are raising 

her three grandchildren to be 

equally aware and sensitive to the 

world around them. 

Follow Kool Kulture on Facebook 

and Khameleonjewellery on 

Instagram or contact Elaine 

on 082 492 9451. 


21 

online buys on our 

most wanted list this month 

1 

4 

3 

5 

2 

1. Le Comfie Turkish towels are 

woven from 100 per cent cotton, are 

lightweight, quick drying and compact. 

They’re also really versatile ... use them 

as beach or bath towels, table cloths 

or sarongs, kitchen towels or scarves, 

picnic or baby blankets. There are loads 

of different designs to choose from, 

and most are available in two sizes. We 

found them on lecomfie.co.za • 2. Have 

the very best, tastiest Italian deli goodies 

delivered directly to your door ... deliziosa. 

We recently discovered Italian Deli Online 

and have been feasting on Italian grilled peppers 

and olives, artichoke spread, bruschetta 

with sun-dried tomatoes ever since. This 

bellissimo online store has the best Italian 

coffees, wafers and biscuits, juices and 

waters, preserves, sauces and more (think 

lovely wines and beers and special occasion 

grappa for when those deliveries are allowed). 

Details: italiandelionline.co.za • 3. One great thing 

about lockdown in winter ... we can wear slippers all 

day long. These are warm and wonderful, available 

in half a dozen or so colour combinations and can 

be monogrammed with your initials. R1495 from 

elizabethsummer.com • 4. Sweet Peas is up there 

at the top of our favourite online boutiques ... all 

its products are custom handmade by artisans in 

South Africa, so it really is a great way to support 

local. This month we’re ordering a pair of these 

cheerful Amalfi linen sandals. We’re probably 

going with this cheerful tangerine, but the citrus 

are lovely, too. 100 per cent leather and linen, 

they’re R699 and will add nicely to our Sweet Peas 

collection. Details: sweetpeas.co.za • 5. A hamper of 

spoils is such a treat, particularly when it’s sent up 

from the glorious Babylonstoren in Simondium 

in the Cape. With lockdown deliveries restricted, 

the entire range isn’t available right now, but there’s 

still a lovely selection if you need to send someone 

a gift. Think Orange Blossom Honey, delicious 

with brie, ripe figs or freshly baked bread, and Red 

Plum and Lemon Verbena Cordial, for cocktails, 

cold drinks or to spice up a home-made sponge ... 

simply drizzle over the hot cake. 

Details: babylonstoren.com 

04 14 Get It Joburg Highway Northern • Berea Suburbs • Durban April North 20June 2020

A child. A muddy puddle. A 

pair of gumboots. Pure joy. These 

Boho&Mooi Gummy Welly boots 

are made with natural rubber, are 

lined, soft and bendable. They cost 

R499.99 and can be pre-ordered 

from Hansel & Gretel, one of our 

fave online stores for babes and 

toddlers (great bags for mums, 

too). Details: myhgshop.com 

6 

June 

2020 Get It Highway • Berea • Durban North 15

7 8 

11 

9 

10 

7. This Kitchen Garden Hand & Body 

Lotion is a rich, luxurious balm that’s 

easily absorbed, restores moisture and 

leaves skin smooth, supple and lightly 

scented. It’s a burst of fresh herbs 

in a bottle ... gorgeous. R220 from 

babylonstoren.com • 8. A little luxury 

never went amiss. Homeware Spot is 

a site dedicated to a premium, handselected, 

carefully curated range, like 

this M&Sense Neofresh Lavender & 

Sage Luxurious Diffuser (R520) and 

Luxurious Scented Large Candle 

(R490). Details: homewarespot.com 

• 9. With these rings on our fingers, 

we don’t need bells on our toes. 

LOVE these Blink and Co designer 

rainbow rings ... and plan on starting 

a collection (hint, hint to those 

asking what we want for birthdays 

and anniversaries coming up!). 

Pure silver, then bathed in gold – 

and the stones are semi-precious 

crystals mixed with Swarovski 

crystals. They’re exclusive limited 

editions, and range from R1800 

to R2800. Details: Order for delivery 

from michelle@blinkandco.com or 

082-908-1808 • 10. Yes. We know 

it’s winter. But this dark red, midi 

camisole dress with blue contrast 

lace trim would be sensational 

under a kimono or big, slouchy 

cardie. R599 from zara.com • 11. 

12 

How gorgeous is this mauve midi 

pleated skirt? Love the colour, 

love the fabric – and it sways and 

dances as we walk. Bonus ... it has an 

elastic waistband (a few of us need 

that, after the lockdown bake-a-thon we’ve 

been enjoying). R599 from zara.com • 12. 

Little mini bottles of sugar-free cordials in 

flavours like Turkish Delight and elderflower, 

lemongrass and pomegranate, unicorn 

(swoon) and Glühwein. R29.95 each. While 

you’re ordering, the sugar-free syrups (think 

peanut, chai, milk tart) are brilliant, too. 

Order online for delivery (costs range from 

R70 to R195 depending on your area, so a 

good idea to order with a group of friends). 

Details: gudgu.co.za 


Wall art ... if you’re a fan of antique prints, you’re going to love Cosmographica Prints which, in the past 

decade, has built a substantial digital archive of antique prints, principally Africana, but also cartography, 

botanicals, anatomicals and other interesting oddities. The prints are museum quality (archival inks 

and paper) with several sizes (from A4 to A0) and weights of paper to choose from, and are ideal for 

decorative purposes – unlike originals, which commonly use water-based paints, they won’t fade in 

bright sunlight. Prices are from around R590 to R2490. Details: instagram.com/cosmographica_prints/ 

or facebook.com/cosmographicaprints 

13 


14 

15 

14. It’s not new, but it’s the perfect book to buy now 

if you don’t have it. South Africa’s organic gardening 

guru, Jane Griffiths, shows you how easy it is to create 

a food garden, no matter how small your space. All 

inspirational ideas, practical information and loads 

of tips and suggestions, Jane’s Delicious Urban 

Gardening also touches on keeping urban bees and 

hens, harvesting rainwater and recycling grey water, as 

well as introducing solar power into your home. R302, 

order online for delivery from exclusivebooks.co.za • 15. 

Supporting small, local business and adding a touch 

of glam to our indoor garden – win win. This grey and 

yellow planter is from Plasticity, a sustainable brand 

based in Graaff-Reinet in the Karoo, where they upcycle 

plastic to create functional products. R249 from 

upcycledplastic.co.za • 16. We’re all for using natural 

products whenever possible ... and Made by Nature 

is an online store that makes it so jolly easy. Brands 

are selected for their eco standards and for using only 

natural ingredients ... think brands like Earthsap and 

Triple Orange, The Herbal Pet and Hey Gorgeous. You 

can stock up on everything from all-purpose cleaner to 

baby wipes, from herbal spray treatment for itchy pets 

to rose scented body scrub. Our regular order always 

includes this Triple Orange Fruit and Veg Wash (R65), 

which safely removes wax, soil, chemicals and bacteria. 

Details: madebynature.co.za • 17. With all the hand 

washing and sanitising going on, a good hand cream 

is essential. Burt’s Bees Almond & Milk Hand Cream 

is our go-to option. R200, order online from dischem. 

co.za and takealot.com 

18 Get It Highway • Berea • Durban North June 2020 

16 

17 

18 

18. We’re ordering this Kare Essential Starter Kit ... three 

bags designed to allow you to do your grocery shop without 

having to touch a piece of plastic. There’s a 100 per cent pure 

unbleached cotton mesh produce bag and an expandable 

tote (which folds up small but expands to hold at least 3kgs of 

your shopping) and a cotton calico solid produce bag (with 

absorptive, breathable cotton, so perfect for veggies like lettuce, 

keeping it fresh and crisp; also great for freezing bread and 

useful for storing cheese or grains). These bags (and loads more) 

are all available as single buys, so you can add to your collection, 

but this kit is a great place to start. R335 from karebags.co.za

19. There’ll be no problem getting your kids to wear their face masks when 

they can roar like a lion. Lions, kittens, pigs and eagles ... we LOVE these. 

They’re R50 from madambotany.co.za, and can be delivered around the 

country. • 20. We are, for the foreseeable future, going to be spending a 

lot more time at home. So let’s embrace it – the Nordic way. Hyggie – 

pronounced hue-gah – is loosely translated as cosy ... it’s all about people’s 

behaviour towards each other, about creating intimacy and contentment 

and warmth. In How To Hygge, Scandinavian cook and writer Signe 

Johansen shares the secrets of Nordic living and shows you how to adopt 

these elements into your everyday life. So besides loads of recipes, there are ideas 

on how to enjoy the outdoors, the joy of fika (coming together over cake and 

coffee) and how to collaborate to achieve a sense of community. For those who 

admire the Nordic stylish design, Signe shows how to achieve Scandi-cool in your 

own home, without breaking the bank. R338, and you can order online and have 

it delivered from exclusivebooks.co.za • 21. Work. Cleaning. Laundry. Cooking. And 

now home-schooling too. Good grief! But we’ve found help in a box. WackyBox 

is, quite literally, preschool in a box. It contains everything you need to keep your 

pre-schoolers entertained and educated at home. It’s not new – it’s been around 

for four years – but my goodness, is it well timed right now! Founder Nicolene 

Steyn ensures all major educational milestones between the ages of five months 

and six years are covered, with age-appropriate activities and new themes 

monthly (think Shapes, African Insects, and By The Sea). It’s an open-up-and-startplaying 

experience, with minimal prep. Hugely helpful for busy (or not terribly 

organised) mums, as absolutely everything you need is ready to use inside the 

box. What’s more, the box is also part of the activities, which means nothing goes 

to waste. You can order a one off box (a great gift from gran over lockdown ... 

hint, hint), or a subscription. Prices around R395 for a one off order, R1940 for a six 

month subscription. Details: wackybox.co.za 

20 

19 

21 


MASKS FOR 

GLOWING SKIN 

Wear your face masks outdoors ... but when you get home, 

apply one of these for happy, glowing, hydrated skin. 

Activated charcoal draws micro-particles resulting from 

pollution, along with bacteria, toxins, chemicals, dirt and 

oil, to the surface of the skin, absorbs them, and they’re 

removed when the skin is rinsed. TheraVine Daily Defence 

Charcoal Purifying Mask (R408) also refines the skin 

texture and promotes a blurred and satin appearance. The 

TheraVine HydraVine Chardonnay Grape Mask is a superhydrating, 

pre-moistened cloth mask, which helps intensely 

moisturise and ‘lock in’ active ingredients for up to three 

weeks, leaving your skin soothed, desensitised and hydrated. 

(R261 for a 2-pack) from theravine.co.za 

A trio of exceptional masks from 

Nimue ... Anti-Ageing Leave On 

Mask is a nourishing, moisturising 

night mask that promotes glowing 

skin all year round. R541. The Super 

Hydrating Mask is great for winter, when cooler weather 

dries out our skin. It’s a fantastic moisture-rich, cream 

mask that hydrates and soothes dry and dehydrated skin 

conditions. R517. Nimue’s Glyco Mask, with soothing 

and anti-inflammatory properties, is the perfect fastacting 

solution that provides radiance and 

exfoliates the skin before a special occasion. 

R314. For online delivery from selected 

salons – find your closest on nimueskin.com 

SOLAL Exfoliating Mask is a 

unique self-heating exfoliating and 

hydrating mask that helps to remove 

old, dry, surface skin cells. It soothes, 

has anti-inflammatory qualities and 

nourishes and moisturises the skin. 

R219 from dischem.co.za 

If you’re after a revitalising mask, 

Filorga Oxygen-Glow is a super-perfecting 

express mask containing a trio of peel-effect active 

ingredients which reveal a glowing complexion in 

just 10 minutes (R610). For anti-ageing, we suggest 

the Filorga Time–Filler express anti-ageing sheet 

mask, which has a double smoothing effect 

which lifts and visibly smooths wrinkles, and also 

stimulates skin regeneration for a reinforced antiageing 

action (R175 for a single mask). You can buy 

online at www.absoluteskin.co.za; shopfomo.com; 

riekiemedaesthetic.co.za and clicks.co.za 


New from Chanel is this Camellia 

Repair Mask Multi-Use Hydrating 

Comforting Mask (R1110) which 

offers excellent hydration and 

soothes while it works. Also a firm 

fave is the Hydra Beauty Camellia 

Overnight Mask (R1390), both 

from woolworths.co.za 

Clarins Extra-Firming 

Mask is a relaxing, 

anti-ageing mask 

that helps visibly 

smooth facial features, 

diminish the look 

of tension lines and 

erase signs of stress 

and fatigue, as well 

as restoring the 

skin’s firmness. R897 

from clarins.co.za 

We do like activated charcoal 

masks – they remove sebum, 

decongest and detoxify the skin 

and minimise pores – but they’re 

so messy! This SKNLogic Charcoal 

Detox Masque has the charcoal 

suspended in beads, so you get 

the benefit without the mess. The 

SKNLogic Multi Regenerating 

Masque is a stem cell rejuvenator 

and can be used overnight. R290 

each from sknlogic.com 



Apply Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Overnight 

Firming Mask before bed and wake up with 

skin that feels firmer, more resilient and deeply 

refreshed. This luxurious, light-weight cream firms, 

tightens and lifts, and has fragrance technology 

that promotes a sense of calming relaxation for a 

more restful night’s sleep. R815 from edgars.co.za 

Eau Thermale Avène Hydrance 

Aqua-gel is a new, 3-in-1 

hydrating product that can 

be used as a daily moisturiser, 

sleeping mask and eye cream. 

It offers long-lasting hydration, 

optimal skin comfort, radiance 

and suppleness, and has Avène 

Thermal Spring Water, which is 

soothing, softening and antiirritating. 

R349 from 

dischem.co.za and clicks.co.za 

Lamelle Serra Lipid Recovery 

Mask is a silk-like, rich, 

moisturising mask formulated 

to provide essential support to 

dry skins. A treatment mask, it 

helps to enhance the benefits of 

moisturisers formulated for dry 

skin, providing much-needed 

lipid replenishment and hydration. 

Suitable for all skin types, it costs 

R475 from dermastore.co.za 


Peel here to reveal 

your most perfect 

skin! Elizabeth Arden 

Prevage City Smart 

Double Action Detox 

Peel Off Mask acts like a 

liquid magnet, instantly 

lifting and removing 

impurities. When you peel 

it off, your skin will be 

visibly brighter, smoother 

and virtually porelesslooking. 

R950 from 

edgars.co.za 

Two Skinderm masks to 

look out for are this wellpriced 

Pure Clarifying 

Mask (R280) as well as 

the Hydrating Repair 

Mask (R395), both from 

perfect10.co.za 

SVR Hydracid C50 is a micro peeling foam 

mask described as pure vitamin C in a can. It 

can be used during the day for a 15 minute 

quick treatment, or left on overnight for a 

more intense option. It smooths, hydrates 

and plumps, assists with your skin’s texture 

and radiance, and can be used on sensitive 

skins. R600 from riekiemedaesthetic.co.za; 

absoluteskin.co.za or shopfomo.com 

GR8 Skincare’s 

CTRL is a lovely, 

clay-based mask 

that’s great for 

purifying and 

helping with 

breakouts (which 

could be caused 

by wearing masks 

and shields). R329 

from gr8skn.com 

or dischem.co.za 

This Optiphi Hydra-Derm HA Mask is 

a creamy leave-on mask that soothes 

dehydration, fights the signs of fatigue 

and delivers intense, long-lasting moisture. 

R770 from optiphi.com 

If you have ageing skin, hyperpigmentation and 

breakout-prone skin, try DermaFix Pumpkin 

Peptide – an anti-oxidant-rich, thermo mask 

which resurfaces your skin, encourages cell 

renewal and leaves your skin glowing with a 

brighter and more radiant complexion. R510 from 

dermafix.co.za • Placecol Weekly Booster masks 

exfoliate, hydrate and soothe. This Clearing Scrub 

Mask exfoliates with purifying clay, while there’s 

also an Optimum Hydration Mask, which does 

exactly that – gives a hit of moisture to your skin. 

R310 each from placecol.com 


Swapping your daily shake 

for a plant-based alternative 

ADVERTORIAL 

How it’s made 

For Tri Blend premium vegan 1 , ingredients like quinoa, flaxseed and pea were selected. 

Together, all the ingredients in the product deliver a protein source, vitamin C and 7 

key minerals. 

Plant-based protein 

Using plant-based instead of animal-based proteins, like milk, makes the composition 

of the product different. Protein is a composition of smaller molecules called amino 

acids. 

Some of these amino acids can’t be produced by the body itself. The nine amino 

acids that humans cannot synthesise are phenylalanine, valine, threonine, tryptophan, 

methionine, leucine, isoleucine, lysine, and histidine. These are called essential amino 

acids and must be provided by the diet in a certain proportion. In many animal-based 

sources, like milk protein, these amino acids are provided in the right amount and 

proportion. 

Plant-proteins (with some exceptions) tend to be incomplete, lacking different essential 

amino acids. For example, a plant-protein source can be low in lysine, whereas another 

one is low in methionine. 

However, mixing complementary sources of plant-protein helps us to obtain all the 

essential amino acids in their adequate amounts to have a complete protein. Therefore, 

together, the ingredients of Tri Blend provide a source of protein. The product is also 

suitable for vegans and can be part of a plant-based diet. 

Why Tri Blend is a great snack 

First, consuming a protein snack, such as Tri Blend, may be a 

great way to help meet protein recommendations. It is also a 

better alternative to common low-nutrient, high-energy density 

snacks. Moreover, it’s a convenient way to increase plant protein 

consumption or, to help us switch to a more plant-based protein diet. 

Vegetarianism is the practice that 

excludes meat, meat products, 

poultry and fish from the diet. 

There are several variants of the 

diet, some of which also exclude 

eggs or dairy. Veganism is a 

philosophy and compassionate 

lifestyle. The objective of this 

diet seeks to exclude the use of 

animals for food, clothing, or any 

other purpose. Vegans don’t use or 

consume animal products of any 

kind including honey References: 

Appleby, P. N., & Key, T. J. (2016). 

Conference on ‘The future of 

animal products in the human 

diet: health and environmental 

concerns’ Symposium 3: 

Alternatives to meat. The longterm 

health of vegetarians and 

vegans. Proceedings of the 

Nutrition Society, 75, 287–293. 

Melina, V., Craig, W., & Levin, S. 

(2016). Position of the Academy 

of Nutrition and Dietetics: 

Vegetarian Diets. J Acad Nutr Diet, 

116(12), 1970-1980. doi:10.1016/j. 

jand.2016.09.025 

Something good for the planet 

Compared to animal-based diets, plant-based alternatives seem to 

also have some benefits for the planet. 

For more information, 

visit www.herbalife.co.za

Dear dad ... 

It’s June. It’s Fathers’ Day. And we adore dads. So here’s a fantabulous prize for 

you to (hopefully) win for yours. A hamper just filled to the brim with everything 

on this page. Yip ... there’s Aviation Gin and Don Papa Rum. There’s a bottle of 

John Bannerman Scotch Whisky and a cooler bag of Italian Mazzatti Beer. There’s 

Seedlip for dads on driving duty, and a Lou Harvey cooler bag. And last, but oh 

my goodness, certainly not least, there’s a new, functional backpack from Thule, 

which dad will use every day for probably ever! Want to win? Head off to our 

Facebook page (GetItNationalMagazine), 

find the Dear Dad post, and follow the 

rules. And happy, happy 

Fathers’ Day to all the dads out 

there. We trust you’ll be spoilt 

rotten! Entries close end June, 

prizes given once lockdown 

restrictions are lifted. 


Gift ideas for dad this Fathers’ Day 

All we really need to know about 

Aviation Gin is that Ryan Reynolds 

tasted it, loved it, and immediately 

grabbed an ownership interest in it. And 

if it’s good enough for this Hollywood 

actor, writer, producer and mostswoonworthy-handsome-man-alive, 

it’s good enough for us. Fortunately, 

besides being hot and having a wicked 

sense of humour, he’s also got good 

taste. This Portland-distilled, American 

craft gin is amazing ... subtle, smooth, 

balanced, it can fly solo or take any 

mixed drink to new heights. 

Details: trumanandorange.com 

Moving over to Italy, and to Mazzatti 

Beer, which exemplifies the Italian 

style of this top favourite tipple. A fullflavoured, 

exceptionally-made, classic, 

Italian beer brewed with pure, natural 

water from the Alpine stream that runs 

through Lagundo, it has no added 

chemicals and has a natural, refreshing 

taste. Details: trumanandorange.com 

If your dad is strong and bold he’s a 

banner man ... the one always chosen 

for his ability to carry the banner and 

inspire courage in those he leads. 

Bannermans Red Seal is an incredibly 

fine Scotch whisky ... smooth, rich, 

sophisticated. Like dad! 


Enjoy Don Papa Rum neat, on the 

rocks or over one large ice cube. 

Whichever you choose, you’ll find this 

small batch, single island, premium 

aged rum, smooth, delicate and 

delicious! Made on the sugar island of 

Negros Occidental in the Philippines, 

and distilled from some of the finest 

sugar cane in the world, it’s aged for 

more than seven years in American 

oak barrels in the foothills of Mount 

Kanlaon, and is all vanilla, honey and 

candied fruits. 


Solving that ever-growing ‘what to drink 

when you’re not drinking’ dilemma, 

SEEDLIP is the world’s first distilled 

non-alcoholic spirit. Blended and 

bottled in England, it has zero calories, 

is sugar-free, and has no sweetener or 

artificial ingredients. Try the new version 

– Seedlip Grove – it’s zesty, citrusy and 

is great with tonic and 

a twist of orange peel 

for a delicious nonalcoholic 

drink. Details: 

yuppiechef.com 

So ... we have the 

drinks. What about 

the bags? For funky 

colourful coolers, we 

look no further than 

Lou Harvey, where 

you’ll find a range of eight different 

cooler bags in loads of different design 

options ... so there’ll be something 

exactly right for you. 

Details: louharvey.com 

The new Thule Construct Backpack 

(24L) is a functional backpack with 

just the right amount of storage, 

organisation and casual style to 

transition from the work week to the 

weekend. Keep your phone or glasses 

safe in the soft-lined protective pocket 

and store the rest of your day to day 

essentials and electronics in multiple 

pockets. It’s a gift your dad will use 

every single day ... and Thule is known 

to be exceptional quality, so he’ll be 

using it, and thanking you, for years to 

come. Details: thulestore.co.za 


FINE SPARKLING WINE 

This is where we come to life. Stylish and effortless. Raising fine-stemmed glasses up to friendship 

and fashion. Celebrating the balance between style and sophistication. Making the most of every 

moment that makes a celebration. This is a State of Grace. 

@gracefinewine 

Enjoy Responsibly. Liquor not for sale to persons under the age of 18.

MILKY WAY 

If it’s sweet, warm and 

delicious, we want it. 

If ever there was a time to spoil ourselves, it’s now. 

And we can’t think of much more of a treat than 

a cup of hot chocolate. And when it’s white hot 

chocolate ... oh, be still our beating hearts! New from 

Nomu is this White Hot Chocolate (R51.95) ... order it, 

along with other luxurious chocolate indulgences, for 

home delivery from nomu.co.za 

Whip that coffee 

If you’re on Instagram, you’ll no doubt have seen post after post 

of Dalgona coffee. Picture perfect, it’s also amazingly easy to 

make. It’s fluffy and delicious, and you can enjoy it hot or cold. All 

you need is to pop two generous tablespoons each of instant 

coffee, granulated sugar (we like brown, but you can use white) 

and boiling water into a small bowl. Whip with a whisk or hand 

mixer until foamy, thick and fudgy in colour. With an electric 

whisk, this took us two minutes. Then pour your hot or cold milk 

into a a glass until three-quarters full, spoon the whipped coffee 

on top, (take your Instagram photo now), then stir vigorously 

through the milk. Top hint: if you’ve got children, do the same 

with Milo. It’s brilliant. Just whip four tablespoons of Milo with 

four tablespoons of cream, then pour onto of a mug of hot milk 

(makes two). 

Hey, sugar sugar (you’re singing, now, aren’t you .... ah, 

honey honey, you are my candy girl). Retro-style sugar 

shaker for your coffee tray, R99 from zarahome.com 



Cookingup 

a storm 

If Snegugu Wanda could sum up her passion for all things culinary in one sentence, 

it would be this: ‘I want to hit South Africa’s food space like a good storm!’ 

aving closed her law books 

in 2013 and bade farewell to 

her dreams of becoming the 

country’s next Chief Justice to 

pursue a career in food, she’s 

certainly making her mark 

as a member of the South 

African Chefs’’ Association 

and one of Durban’s finest female chefs 

who heads up the kitchen at Florida Road’s 

trendy Italian restaurant, Wish on Florida. 

Specialising in Fusion cuisine, Chef Gugu 

(as she is affectionately known), attributes 

her passion for cooking to her late 

grandmother, Esther Wanda, who taught 

her how to cook. 

‘My mother was a very career-focused 

woman, so I was raised by uGogo. One of 

my fondest memories is my grandmother 

teaching me so I could one day turn around 

and teach my mother how to cook,’ she 

says. 

Someone Chef Gugu has always loved 

cooking for is her father, Thulani Jaca, and 

with Father’s Day around the corner, we 

asked her to share some of the dishes she’d 

enjoy knocking up most for him, if she were 

able to have him over for the day. 

‘My father is a Durbanite through and 

through, but he is currently based in 

Joburg, and whenever I ask him what 

he misses most about Durban he says 

his favourite food - a really good Indian 

mutton Biryani. I may not be Indian, but 

I made it my duty to come up with the 

meanest version of a Spicy Mutton Rice that 

he cannot say no to. He also loves rustic 

roasted potatoes and anything else that I 

might try at the restaurant, like our creamy 

delicious ocean fresh pasta. Since we’re on 

lockdown, I hope you enjoy making these 

dishes in your own homes as much as I 

have.’ 

Snegugu Wanda 


Rustic roasted lemon-minted 

coriander potato salad 

Spicy mutton rice 

YOU’LL NEED: 

Cubed mutton meat; 1 tablespoon 

Robertson Shisanyama spice; 

2 chopped onions; 100g 

curry leaves; 100g rosemary; 3 

tablespoons of garlic and ginger; 

1 tablespoon Paprika; 1 

tablespoon cayenne pepper; 1 

tablespoon dried chillies; 90ml oil; 

5 cinnamon sticks; 100g cumin 

seeds; 1 cup of jasmine rice; 

1 teaspoon of turmeric; 500ml 

plain yogurt or Amasi; 500ml stock; 

Salt and pepper to taste; 30g 

Pomegranate seeds; 50g Parsley 

chopped 

METHOD 

Cook the jasmine rice according 

to packet instructions. In a 

separate bowl, mix the yogurt 

with turmeric, and then add salt 

and pepper and the garlic and 

ginger. 

Add 1 tablespoon of Robertson 

Shisanyama spice followed by the 

cubed meat into this mixture. In 

a deep pan or pot, warm up the 

oil and add all the other spices 

and allow to simmer for a minute, 

this helps release flavours of the 

spices, plus it gives your kitchen 

a pleasant fragrance. Add the 

onions and allow to cook till soft. 

Add the marinated cubed meat 

to the pan and mix well. Add the 

stock and allow to simmer slowly. 

It should look like a stew at this 

point. Add the curry leaves. 

Once the meat is cooked, add 

the rice into the pan and make 

sure it’s coated well. 

Turn off the heat and garnish 

with pomegranate seeds and 

parsley. 

YOU’LL NEED: 

1kg bag of baby potatoes; 2 lemons; 100g 

mint leaves;1 garlic clove;1 tablespoon pepper; 

1 tablespoon salt; 250ml oil; 700g coriander; 

1 tablespoon dried mint; Tangy mayo; 70g 

Pomegranate seeds; 1 tablespoon of paprika for 

garnish 

METHOD 

Add your potatoes to a roasting pan and season 

with salt and pepper. Add the garlic clove, dried 

mint, zest of half a lemon and the juice of a whole 

lemon, drizzle with oil and roast. Don’t throw away 

the lemon carcass. Keep it safe. In bowl mix three 

tablespoons of tangy mayo, add the juice and zest 

from the remaining lemon and chop up the mint 

and coriander and add this to the mayo mix. When 

the potatoes are just about cooked add the leftover 

lemon carcass to roast with the potatoes to release 

the juices even more. Once the potatoes are golden 

crispy, coat them with the mayo mixture. Garnish 

with pomegranate seeds and a sprinkle of paprika. 


Comfort in a bowl ... 

Constantia Glen’s famous Austrian beef 

goulash soup – a nourishing traditional 

cold weather foil that’s hearty and rich 

in flavour – will bowl you over! This 

spicy beef and potato soup flaunts 

paprika as its signature ingredient, 

and it needs a big, well-structured red 

wine to stand up to its bold flavours. So 

open a bottle of Constantia’s flagship 

Constantia Glen FIVE, a blend of five 

Bordeaux grape varieties, and tuck into 

this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish, 

best served with fresh crusty bread 

to mop up even the last drop in your 

bowl. 

The wine costs R465, and you can order 

it online (constantiaglen.com/orderwine) 

for delivery to your door after the 

lockdown restrictions have been lifted. 

Traditional Austrian beef 

goulash soup 

(Serves 4) 

You’ll need: 

45ml (3 Tblsps) olive oil; 3 (600g) 

medium onions, chopped; 5ml (1 tsp) 

garlic, finely chopped; 15ml (1 Tblsp) 

tomato paste; 15ml 

(1 Tblsp) paprika; 2.5ml (½ tsp) ground 

cumin; 2.5ml (½ tsp) marjoram; 2.5ml 

(½ tsp) thyme ; 2.5ml (½ tsp) cayenne 

pepper (optional); 250g boneless, 

cubed beef; 60ml (¼ cup) red wine; 

1L (4 cups) warm beef stock; 3 (660g) 

medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 

salt and pepper 

To serve: sour cream; chopped chives; 

crusty bread 

Method: 

Heat the oil in a large, heavy based 

pot over medium heat. Add onions 

and garlic and sauté until tender for 

8 to 10 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, 

paprika, cumin, marjoram, thyme and 

cayenne pepper. Add beef and fry, for 

5 minutes. Stir in red wine and simmer 

for 5 minutes. Add stock, cover and 

cook for 40 minutes. 

Add potatoes and simmer for a further 

30 minutes until potatoes and meat are 

fork-tender. 

Season the soup to taste, ladle into 

bowls and top each portion with a 

dollop of sour cream. Sprinkle some 

chives on top and serve with freshly 

baked bread. 

Eat in! 

Hearty goulash. Slow cooked lamb. And two 

exceptional wines. Winter’s looking damn fine! 

Compiled by KYM ARGO 


A velvety Merlot 

and slow cooked lamb 

Replenish your winter wine stocks with 

a smooth-as-velvet Steenberg Merlot 

... just perfect for enjoying by the fire 

or paired with home-style comfort 

food. Rich and juicy, and overloaded 

with concentrated red fruit ... it’s a 

sensational mouthful of sour cherries, 

dark chocolate and spicy cloves. It’s 

big and generous and is extraordinarily 

food-friendly, making it an obvious 

choice to serve with chef Kerry Kilpin’s 

brand of winter comfort food dished 

up at Steenberg’s restaurants. Always 

happy to share her recipes, chef Kerry 

recommends her hearty lamb neck 

stuffed with ricotta and herbs to go with 

this Merlot, which you can order online 

for R190 a bottle (steenbergfarm.com) 

with deliveries as soon as lockdown 

restrictions allow. 

Lamb neck stuffed with ricotta and herbs with lemon jus 

(Serves 6) 


1kg deboned lamb neck; 200g ricotta; 10g each chopped basil and parsley; 

zest of 1 lemon; one each onion, carrot and celery stick, all chopped; 1000ml 

stock; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 100g butter; salt and pepper 

Method: 

In a food processor combine the ricotta, herbs and lemon juice, and season 

with salt and pepper. 

Open up the neck and season with salt and pepper on the inside and out. 

Lay the neck “skin” side down and spread the filling over the entire surface 

of the meat. Roll up like a Swiss roll and secure meat by tying with butcher’s 

string. Prepare a roasting tin with the chopped vegetables and stock. Lay the 

lamb neck on top of the vegetables. 

Braise in a preheated oven of 160°C for two to three hours or until cooked. 

When you place a skewer in the meat it should have no resistance. 

Once cooked, remove meat from the pan and allow to rest. 

Combine the vegetables and stock from the roasting pan and blend. Pour 

into a pot and bring to the boil. Add the zest, lemon juice and butter. Season 

with salt and pepper. Strain before serving. 

Serve with a glass of delicious Steenberg Merlot. Enjoy! 


Red wine & pud. All we want, really! 

Here’s an unexpected treat. Roodeberg Reserve 2017 was 

previously only available in selected international markets, 

but can now be enjoyed by local wine lovers too. With 

layers of red plum, blueberries, crushed herbs and tobacco 

leaf, along with hints of dark chocolate and oak, this fullbodied 

blend stands up well to hearty winter dishes, so 

serve with meaty casseroles, roasts and game dishes. It’s 

also a wonderful wine for a weekend of cocooning with 

comforting warm winter desserts, like this spicy pumpkin 

donut dish from foodie Elmarie Berry. R160 a bottle. You can 

order this now from kwvemporium.co.za or you’ll find it at 

selected Pick n Pay stores after the lockdown restrictions 

have been lifted. 

Pumpkin donuts with dark chocolate 

(Serves 6 to 8) 


1 ½ cups cooked pumpkin, mashed; 1 cup 

self-raising flour; 2 eggs; a pinch of salt; ½ tsp 

cinnamon; oil for deep frying; 1 cup cinnamon 

sugar; 100g dark chocolate, melted 

Method: 

Cook pumpkin, drain excess liquid and allow to 

cool. Put all ingredients except dark chocolate 

and cinnamon sugar in a food processor and 

mix until smooth. Heat oil and add tablespoons 

of batter to the oil and fry until golden brown. 

Roll in cinnamon sugar and drizzle with the 

melted dark chocolate. 



Super smoothies 

Need to beat winter lurgies? Try healthy, immune-boosting smoothies 

An orange resolution 

(Serves 8) 


2 cups frozen mango chunks; 2 cups 

frozen peach slices; 2 cups Greek 

yoghurt; 1 cup baby carrots; 1 cup 

orange juice; 1 cup pineapple chunks; ¼ 

cup honey; 1 banana, peeled 

Method: 

Put the mango chunks, peach slices, 

yoghurt, carrots, orange juice, pineapple 

chunks, honey and banana in a blender 

and whizz until everything’s smooth. 

The big green 

(Serves 1) 


1 ½ cups kale, stems removed and 

chopped finely; ½ cup baby spinach 

leaves, chopped finely; ½ cup frozen 

blueberries; 1 cup apple cider or apple 

juice; 1 tsp ginger, freshly grated (the 

easiest way to peel ginger is to scrape 

the skin off with a spoon); 1 tsp maple 

syrup 

Method: 

Whizz all the ingredients in a blender 

until everything is well mixed and 

liquefied. Drink immediately. 

Raspberry jubilee 

(Serves 2) 


¾ cup frozen raspberries; ½ cup orange 

juice; ½ cup pomegranate or cranberry 

juice; ½ cup vanilla flavour yoghurt; ¼ 

cup All-Bran cereal 

Method: 

Place fruit in blender container. Add 

juices, yoghurt and cereal. Blend until 

smooth. If desired, sweeten to taste with 

a little honey. 

Looking for a 

boost? Click here 

for two great 

recipes that are 

packed with 

vitamins 


KID-FRIENDLY! 

Sweet potato pie 

(Serves 3 - 4) 


1 medium-sized sweet potato, 

cooked; 1 medium-sized banana, 

peeled; 2 cups fat-free milk; ¼ cup 

vanilla flavoured Greek yoghurt; 1 

Tblsp honey; ¼ tsp cinnamon; ½ cup 

ice 

Method: 

Add all ingredients into blender. 

Cover; whizz on high for about 

one minute or until smooth. Serve 

immediately. 

Potent turmeric & ginger 

(Serves 1) 


1 ripe banana; 2 tsps powdered 

turmeric; 1 ¼ tsps ground ginger; 

2 Tblsps hemp seeds; 2 Tblsps 

cashew nuts; 200ml filtered water; 

½ cup frozen mango; ½ cup frozen 

pineapple 

Method: 

Whizz the banana, ginger, turmeric, 

water, hemp seeds and cashews for 

about 30 seconds. Add frozen fruit, 

then blend until creamy smooth. 

Add more water if you want it more 

juice-like. 

Apple pie 

(Serves 2) 


1 red apple, peeled and cored; ½ 

cup non-fat plain yoghurt; ¼ tsp 

vanilla extract; 1 tsp brown sugar; ¼ 

tsp nutmeg; ¼ tsp cinnamon; pinch 

of ground cloves (optional); 1 cup 

ice cubes 

Method: 

Chop the apple into small cubes. 

Pop all ingredients into blender and 

pulse until well mixed. 

* Top with whipped cream and 

cinnamon for an extra sweet treat! 

Did you know? 

* About a cup of strawberries a day 

gives us our daily requirement of 

Vitamin C, which in turn, boosts our 

immunity and works as a brilliant 

antioxidant. 

* Probiotics, found in yoghurt and other 

fermented products, may ease the 

severity of colds. Look for labels that say 

‘live and active cultures’. Also, look for 

added vitamin D. 

* You’ll find lots of nutrients in spinach. 

One of them is folate, which helps your 

body make new cells and repair DNA. 

It also boasts fibre, antioxidants such as 

vitamin C, and more. 

* Pomegranate juice may help your 

body fight bacteria and several kinds of 

viruses, including the flu. 

* Consuming turmeric may improve 

your immune response. This is due to 

the qualities of curcumin, a compound 

in turmeric. 

* Honey is rich in antioxidants and is 

often used to soothe sore throats. It 

adds natural sweetness to the drink. 

* Lemon juice is very high in vitamin 

C and can help support heart and 

digestive health. 

* Orange juice is naturally high in 

vitamin C, folate and potassium, as well 

as being a great source of antioxidants. 

* Ginger has a very long history of use 

in traditional and alternative medicine. 

It’s been used to help digestion, reduce 

nausea and help fight the common 

cold and other illnesses, among other 

benefits. 

* Cayenne has many health advantages 

that are a result of the active 

component, capsaicin. It can boost 

metabolism and lower blood pressure. 

* Apple cider vinegar can kill harmful 

bacteria. 

June 2020 Get It Highway • Berea • Durban North 37 

Compiled by: RIALIEN FURSTENBERG

COLOUR 

& YOUR MOOD 

Dulux South Africa colour expert Palesa Ramaisa 

shared with us how colour can impact your state 

of mind ... with calming blues and soothing greens 

taking the limelight. 


After spending week after week after very long week in lockdown, it may be time for a change. Nothing 

refreshes and gives a whole new look than a colour update. But it’s not just about aesthetics. Colour is also 

all about how it makes you feel ... there’s a real science behind how colour affects the brain, and how it can 

play a role in your state of mind and mood. And as so many of us are looking for balance, calm and a little less 

stress in our lives, adding shades of blue and green could work wonders. 

Blue is considered beneficial to the mind and body, and has been shown to help balance hormones, lower 

breathing rates, slow down the metabolism and reduce blood pressure. Starting off your day surrounded by 

soft shades – think easy-on-the-eye powder or sky blue – will help bring inner peace and a sense of calm. 

We’re massively besotted with green when it comes to decorating ... and think creating your very own green 

room is a fine idea. The close link between pale soft greens and nature means the colour is often perceived 

as a soothing shade that helps to alleviate stress and aids in fending off negative feelings. It’s really relaxing 

– think of ‘the green room’ in TV studios where guests and performers retreat and relax before and between 

takes. Green also promotes concentration, so is perfect for a space in your home where you need a calm, 

focused mind. 

Mix it up a little with the beautiful colours that hover between blue and green. Turquoise, a gem which 

combines blue and green with a touch of yellow, was believed by the ancient Persians to ward off the evil 

eye. They wore the blue-green stones as a protective charm. It may be a bit much to have an entire 

room in this strong colour, but touches of it make an eye-catching, bold statement. Teal, a mixture 

of blue, green and a touch of grey, is simply a darker shade of turquoise. Both teal and turquoise 

radiate the peace, calm and tranquillity of blue and the balance and growth of green. Consider 

using turquoise in the bedroom to create a sweet feminine feel, while darker teal shades add 

lively sophistication to living rooms and hallways. 

On the opposite end of the scale, you may prefer a shade that helps stimulate your mind or 

gives your creativity a powerful boost. In which case, hello orange. This is a power colour to 

be reckoned with, as some theorists maintain that when you’re in the presence of orange 

you increase the oxygen supply to the brain, which stimulates mental activity. It’s also 

thought to encourage sociability by energising people and lessening their inhibitions. Bold 

orange could be a little intimidating ... we think the softer shades of nectarine, coral, orange 

rose, sunset, rust and saffron would be easier to live with. 


A JUNGLE OF 

LIVING ART 

Hidden behind a wall of lush 

indigenous greenery, the garden of 

Ant Burnand is not your typical tropical 

KwaZulu-Natal haven. Instead, it is a 

jungle of ancient-looking trees with 

gnarled trunks, dense canopies and 

lichen-covered branches. 


ot quite retired from life in the 

mechanical field, Ant (62) spends 

his spare time practising bonsai, the 

art of cultivating miniature trees in 

pots. With around 300 fully grown 

bonsais and hundreds more in 

progress, the backyard of the New 

Germany home he shares with 

his equally enthusiastic wife, Christine, has, 

over the last 20-something years, become a 

playground for his passion. 

When we join Ant on a tour of what he 

calls his Little Landscapes, it’s a beautiful 

Saturday morning. The sun is out, the sky is 

blue, and his Jack Russells - Poppy and Jack – 

are, as always, right on his heels. 

The swimming pool, crystal clear, has 

become the heart of an al fresco gallery 

of fine art mounted on red poles (painted 

by Christine during lockdown he points 

out), with slate tops, and rows and rows 

of homemade table stands covered with 

delicate trees in clay pots, many of which 

are imported or have been gifted by his son, 

Chris, from his Eastern travels. 

Some trees rise from the soil, others out 

of rock temples (both real and handmade), 

with roots hugging crumbling stones, 

and there are even those that have been 

landscaped with people, cars and wildlife 

that serve as brilliant conversation pieces for 

visitors to his garden. 

The first thing we learn on this outing 

is that we know very little about bonsai. 

Neither did Ant when he got the first 

artificially dwarfed tree that sparked his 

passion all those years ago. 

‘A friend of mine was looking for a fishing 

reel and I had one to spare so I gave it to 

him. In return, he gifted me with a bonsai. 

It was a bit of a mess when I got it and I 

thought it deserved to be given a second 

chance, so I made it my project to learn how 

to bring it back to life. I’ve been caring for it 

ever since.’ 

Had it not been for Ant’s inherent ability 

to ‘fix anything’ (according to Christine), and 

his creative approach to everything he does, 

coupled with a little day-dreaming and a 

built-in hunger to succeed, Ant says he’s not 

sure if he would have pulled it off. 

‘The notion that plants have stories, 

more specifically that trees have stories, 

is something I have learned to appreciate 

more and more as I have worked with 

bonsais,’ Ant says as he grabs a spray bottle 

and navigates through the handmade 

pergola he recently put up and heads 

towards his backyard sunroom (nursery) to 

give each of his seedlings a delicate mist of 

water. 

Ant Burnand 

‘I’m a private grower, I do this for the fun and love of it, but my 

goal has always been to open a nursery and it looks like this will be 

the case soon as I have a spot in Hillcrest at The Garden Shop from 

which I’m hoping to be able to trade, work and hold courses so 

that I can teach keen learners how to plant, propagate and care for 

bonsais. It really is something special to get involved in, provided 

you have time and patience,’ Ant adds, as he demonstrates 

wrapping copper wire around the branches of a Bougainvillea (one 

of his favourites) to give it shape. 

There are a couple of traditional training styles Ant says you can 

choose from. Some are meant to resemble a tree in nature, while 

others are more stylistic. Over time, a tree will grow and begin 

to take on the shape you have designed, but it will need to be 

continuously rewired and trained, until it holds the shape you want 

without the help of wire. 

‘The branches will stay wired for several months – it’s a very slow 

process.’ 

While bonsai is a global art form and an outstanding example of 

refined Japanese style, for someone like Ant, they are little trees 

with big stories because of their lifespan. 

‘They all come from somewhere and are adapted using 

special techniques to become what they are in the end which 

is something quite incredible to behold if you can appreciate 

everything that goes into it. I think the real fascination with bonsai 

though has to do with the difference in how we experience trees 

when they are presented in small, comprehensible sizes, refined to 

their very essence.’ 

On average Ant spends about two hours a day on his plants, from 

the front of his home where the best of the best are on display, to 

the back yard where the plants-in-progress, seedlings and even 

some rescues are tended to. In the evenings and on weekends 

when work doesn’t call, you’ll find him in his workshop sculpting 

mountains out of polystyrene and jotting down ideas along with a 

post-lockdown shopping list for new ‘little landscapes’ he plans to 

create. 

‘I’m a member of the Durban Bonsai Society, so we trade and 

swap and we have a great relationship with local town councils 

and game farmers who grant us permission to dig up any 

prospective plants when they are clearing land to provide space 

for animals or build roads.’ 


The type of tree you grow, says Ant, depends really on the environment in which you’ll be 

keeping it. Deciduous species such as Chinese or Japanese elms, olive, acacia and crabapple 

trees are good for outside, but be sure to pick a species that can grow to full size in your region. 

Coniferous trees, junipers, pines, paper bark or fig trees all make excellent choices too. 

‘If you’re foraging for a bonsai tree, 

select a tree with a sturdy trunk, 

but one that is still quite young. 

Choose a tree with roots that spread 

evenly in every direction, and dig 

around the tree and extract a large 

amount of soil along with the roots. 

I’ve managed to gather about 30 

different species over the years 

including Bougainvillea, fig, Baobab, 

Ficus, African Olive, Boxwood, 

Juniper, and Acacia to name a 

few, and they all grow well here, 

but each requires its own unique 

handling and care.’ 

Based on Ant’s experience, he 

says it can take several months for 

a seed to germinate depending 

on the species, while some finicky 

and slow-growing tree species 

need several seasons just to break 

their seed coats. Seedlings need to 

be nurtured properly, progressive 

plants must be potted (Ant 

makes his own potting soil using 

a little help from nature and the 

Umgeni River), and then there’s the 

trimming, weeding, shaping and 

tying. Something he does daily, as a 

means of relaxation. 

Like most other plants or trees, Ant 

says bonsais are at their most beautiful 

in spring when they sprout leaves and 

flowers. 

‘In spring, trees begin to use the 

nutrients they stored during the winter to 

sprout new leaves and grow. Since a tree 

is in transition during this time of year, it’s 

a good time to repot the plant (adding 

extra nutrients to the soil) and begin 

trimming.’ 


Their presence 

enhances human 

interaction and their 

beauty inspires 

‘Each time you prune, growth is stimulated 

on another part of the tree. Knowing where 

to prune and how often, is part of the art of 

bonsai, and learning how to do it takes a lot 

of practice, that’s why I speak of patience… 

We’ve lived in this house for 38 years and have 

no plans to vacate other than to escape to 

our favourite annual caravanning spot in Cape 

Vidal, once lockdown is over. For the rest, this is 

us, this is me and the bonsai are my livelihood. 

‘Although it may require a great deal of time 

to nurture a bonsai, the fruit of your hard 

work will be greatly rewarded, so if you’re 

considering it, understand this… a bonsai tree 

that is grown from a seed and properly cared 

for over the years can be beautifully shaped, 

uniquely styled and passed down from one 

generation to another. The way I see it, bonsai 

are living art forms that bring with them the 

vibrant spirit of the land they are from. Their 

presence enhances human interaction and 

their beauty inspires - both of which are a vital 

reminder that human life is short; that we must 

pay close attention, take time, be patient and 

stay humble.’ 

Bonsai enthusiasts are welcome to view Ant’s 

garden, by appointment only. 

You can get hold of him on 083 255 5626. 



The sweet-scented 

HYACINTH 

Our indoor plant of the month is the sweetly fragrant pot hyacinth. A cluster 

of these lovely flowers fill a room with their delicate, fresh scent. When grown 

indoors, pot hyacinths like bright indirect light, not direct sunlight and they 

need moist, but not wet, soil. Each pot plant has a number of flower spikes 

that open and remain attractive for several weeks if the plant is kept in a cool 

but well-lit room. Remove flower spikes that are over. Once the plant has 

finished flowering, keep it in a cool room with moist soil and plant it out in 

spring, for flowering the following spring. Alternatively, the hyacinth can stay 

in its pot. The foliage will die down, but it will come up the following year if it 

is watered from next April onwards. Details: plantimex.co.za 

Text: KYM ARGO and ALICE COETZEE 


DIG IT! 

Is it a pansy? Is it a viola? 

Pansy Panola is for gardeners who can’t decide which 

they love more ... pansies or violas! This pansy is a mix 

of both. It has the flower power of a viola but with 

pansy-like blooms, that are bigger than violas but 

not as big as the extra-large pansies. The plants are 

compact (growing to 20cm high and 25cm wide) so 

they fit in anywhere and everywhere ... garden beds, 

borders, sunny corners, patio pots and window boxes. 

You can even plant them in the vegetable garden 

because the blooms are edible. Make sure you plant 

them in full sun in winter, and remember they need 

well composted soil. With regular watering and 

feeding, these Panola pansies will keep on flowering 

into summer, and with less stretch than regular 

pansies in warm climates. Details: ballstraathof.co.za 

Did you know that planting a rose now 

allows it to settle in over winter, ready 

to flower in October? Ludwig’s pick is 

Winter Sun KORbatam (N) because 

it flowers deep into winter, with 

fragrant classically shaped pale-yellow 

blooms, like a winter sun. It grows into 

a neat, shoulder high hybrid tea rose, 

covered in glossy green leaves that are 

very resistant to black spot. It’s a low 

maintenance rose for today’s no-fuss 

gardens. Details: ludwigsroses.co.za 

Look out for the Together we Bloom 

label on cut flowers, as well as indoor 

and outdoor plants. It means R2.27 

has already been donated for hunger 

relief, and you can pay it forward by 

buying the plant. This is a campaign 

initiated by the horticultural industry 

and is being driven by the NPO 

Together we Bloom. Funds raised 

will be disbursed to churches and 

NGOs working with communities in 

need. Follow Together We Bloom on 

Facebook. 

Garden tasks for June 

Transplant roses that are planted in too much shade or in the wrong position. 

(see Ludwig’s Roses on You Tube via ludwigsroses.co.za) 

Rake up all fallen leaves and add them to the compost heap or store in bags to 

make rich leaf compost. 

Remember to water flowers and vegetables as early as possible in the morning 

so the leaves are dry by evening. 

Protect tender leafy vegetables with frost cloth if very cold weather or frost is 

predicted. 

Plant winter colour in sunny beds ... pansies, violas, petunias (in dry winter areas), 

poppies and calendulas. For shade or semi-shade areas, plant primulas. 

Feed winter leafy vegetables with a nitrogen-rich liquid fertilizer. 

Stake broad beans and Brussels sprouts. 


Since 1887, Mionetto has inspired 

Italians to truly taste the good life. 

With its light, crisp and refreshing flavors 

of golden apple, honey and white peach, 

Mionetto Prosecco helps you celebrate 

all of life’s moments, big or small. 

@mionettosa 


WOOF 

Tickled pink 

From fuschia to marshmellow to blush ... we’re 

wearing rose tinted glasses this month 

Man’s best friend never looked this good! 


We’re as excited as a corgi with a bone ... we’ve just discovered You & Lou and ... obsessed! 

A small business run by two best dog-loving friends, it’s all about beautiful, functional products for your 

pets. Baskets – small, medium and large/extra-large – are hand woven, each named after a dog close to 

their hearts. There are also outdoor beds with removable and washable covers, stylish leather collars with 

hand embroidery, as well as cosy cat baskets. Dog baskets from around R1450, beds from R1550 and cat 

baskets from R1300, all from youandlou.co.za 


When your dog’s cruising the park, make sure he owns it! He’ll 

strut along looking good in this Harry Barker bandana, which is 

reversible – striped and plain – and is made from lightweight, durable 

denim. R149.99 from woolworths.co.za 

Well groomed ... this Posh Pets 

bamboo slicker brush has stainless 

steel pins which are perfect for all 

types of coats. The angled pins reach 

into the undercoat and gently 

remove loose hair. R179 from 

woolworths.co.za 

Home made dog treats 

Put aside the bananas. Since we’re baking, we may as well make something 

yummy for the dogs, too. 

Peanut butter biscuits 


1 cup cooked pumpkin puree; 1/4 cup peanut butter (choose one 

with no added sugar or salt); 2 eggs; 3 cups whole wheat flour. 

Method: Preheat oven to 180°C. Beat the pumpkin puree, 

peanut butter and eggs well until mixed – around 2 

minutes. Slowly add in the flour, a little at a time, 

mixing gently until just combined. Knead the 

dough a little, then roll out to about 2cm thick. 

Cut into squares (or shapes, if you prefer) and 

put onto a tray lined with baking paper. 

Bake for around 20 to 25 minutes, 

or until cooked and the edges are 

golden. Cool before storing in an 

airtight container. 

Kid’s toys all over the house are 

bad enough. Add dog’s toys and 

it’s just one big mess. Keep things 

tidy with this Harry Barker classic 

dog toy bin. It’s elegant, durable 

and made from sustainably sourced, 

eco-friendly materials. R349.99 from 

woolworths.co.za 

If your hound is active and always 

getting down and 

dirty in water and 

mud, this custom 

collar with o-ring 

is the real deal. 

Hard-wearing, 

customised, 

machine washable, 

and with pure brass 

fittings that won’t rust, it’s 

perfect for the dog that plays 

hard but still wants to look cool. 

R750 from chommies.com 

Washable covers, waterproof 

interiors and all the comfort 

your dog deserves ... You & 

Lou’s outdoor dog bed. 

Bling for glam bitches and 

handsome hounds ... these 

3mm pure brass dog tags 

which are machine engraved, 

have the Chommies logo 

on one side, the other side’s 

blank for you to engrave your 

dog’s details. R100 each from 

chommies.com 


Well travelled 

We’re just longing to get out there and travel – and holidays 

abroad are just not going to happen any time soon. Luckily, 

we live in a country where there’s loads to explore ... all you 

need is a car and a few well-thought-out essentials. 


Although we can’t travel at the moment there’s nothing wrong with planning your next family holiday. And 

while international locations may be off the cards for a while, we live in a beautiful country, which means you’ll 

probably be packing up for a road trip! We’ve got you covered with these essential travel items so you can hit 

the road for your next adventure with all your gear safely secured. 

Need more space 

You’ll need a safe and reliable roof rack and cargo carrier. The extra space in the rooftop cargo carriers means 

you can take everything you need on your travels. Top buy: Make sure you look for an aerodynamic roof rack 

system with easy installation accessories and a maximum loading area. You’ll want easy-to-install load carrier feet 

and load bars which mount securely to your vehicle. A promise of a quiet ride, with less drag for improved fuel 

economy, is essential. 

Taking the bikes 

With a bike rack for cars from Thule, you’ll be able to cycle on distant roads or bike far from home through wild 

terrain. Thule’s car bike racks come in different types and can be mounted on your roof, hitch, tow bar, or on your 

trunk. If you already own a roof rack, a roof bike rack could be the simplest solution. However, a trunk or hitchmounted 

rack is often easier to load and unload and suits heavier bikes. Top buy: Mounted to the tow bar, so 

you don’t have to buy a base rack, tow bar bike racks are easy to install and use, and can carry up to four bikes. 

Searching for the perfect wave 

Surfboard racks for cars or pickups are designed to let you load up, head off and get out on the water as quickly 

and easily as possible. Transport is also secure thanks to sturdy and protective features that make sure your 

surfboard, SUP or sailboard – including mast and sail – arrives in perfect shape. All you have to do is unload your 

board and start making the most of your passion. 

A cycle holiday with the kids 

A rear child bike seat or front-mounted baby bike seat is a great choice for letting your child see the world from 

your bike. Make sure you choose one with features like quick and secure mounting and dismounting, which will 

give you and your precious passenger a safe, easy, and enjoyable ride, and with adjustable foot straps and foot 

rests to to keep up with your child’s growth. Top tip: Make sure you buy a seat that meets stringent international 

child safety standards, and has childproof safety buckles and a padded harness. 

Walking with the babe 

You’ll be wanting a safe, comfy child carrier backpack, with quick adjustment to fit both parents and a viewing 

mirror. Top tip: The Thule Sapling Elite also has a removable backpack, so can take along all the necessary 

paraphernalia. 

Pack up your troubles 

But not in any old kit bag. Make sure you’ve got a good quality, hard working backpack, be it for hiking, your 

camera or go-pro, your iPad or laptop (for those who can’t leave work at home). Top tip: A cross body bag, and 

good, spacious toiletry bag, are always good add ons. 

All these products, and so many more, are from Thule Partner Stores nationwide and thulestore.co.za 

Win! We’re giving one reader a trio of 

travel essentials ... a Thule Enroute Backpack, a 

powershuttle (for gadgets and tech gear) and a crossover 

toiletry bag. To stand in line to win this R4000 hamper, 

visit GetItNationalMagazines on Facebook, find the Thule 

Travel post, and follow the rules. 


Spoil 

June 

Wine for your old man 

So he tells dad jokes. Just laugh. And pour him another 

glass of Groote Post’s The Old Man’s Blend. Developed 

almost 20 years ago at the behest of Groote Post’s Old 

Man, Peter Pentz, who wanted a blend of red wine 

to enjoy as his winter evening tipple, 

The Old Man’s Blend Red 2019 is a blend 

of 50 per cent Merlot and 25 per cent each 

Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. The wine 

maker says it’s a fantastic vintage ... a downto-earth, 

ripe-fruit-driven blend. If dad’s more 

of a white wine man, choose The Old Man’s 

Blend White 2019, a blend of 50 per cent 

each Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc, with 

refreshing citrus flavours. Both are said to be 

seriously good wines, at seriously good prices, 

and we agree. You’ll find them at local wine 

stores as well as at the Groote Post cellar door 

(groote-post-wines.myshopify.com – delivery 

after lockdown) from R86 for the white, R91 for 

the red. Details: grootepost.co.za 

Fancy winning one of each for your old man? 

We’re giving away a set ... to stand in line to 

win, simply visit our Get It National Magazines 

Facebook page, like our post and tag – if you 

can – your old man. Entries close end June, and 

we’ll only be sending out prizes to winners after 

lockdown restrictions are lifted.

June 2020 - Highway Durban

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