Lowveld - NOV 2020

GET 

LOWVELD 

IT 

Precious 

porcelain 

The creations 

of Nina Bosch 

TAKE 

A HIKE 

Lowveld 

lifestyle 

Local artist 

captures 

the light 

Exclusive 

offer for our 

readers for a 

magical bush 

escape 

It’s time for a 

HOLISTAY! 

SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD 

NOVEMBER 2020

RM-WEY1146M

GET IT 

Editorial 

Phone 013-754-1600 

Lowveld Media 

12 Stinkhout Crescent, Mbombela 

Facebook Get It Lowveld 

Instagram Get It Lowveld 

Website getitmagazine.co.za/lowveld/ 

Editor 

Mellissa Bushby 

mellissa@getitlowveld.co.za 084-319-2101 

Layout 

Geraldine Reyneke • Niël Henning 

Subeditors 

Jess Steyn • May Nel 

Sales 

Yulandi Jansma 081-458-6034 

yulandi@getitlowveld.co.za 

GET IT NATIONAL 

National Group Editor and 

National Sales 

Kym Argo 

kyma@caxton.co.za 082-785-9230 

Facebook and Instagram: 

Get It National Magazines 

Distribution 

Get It Lowveld is distributed free of charge. 

For a full list of where to find a copy, phone 

Monya Burger on 083-555-4992 

Published by CTP Limited 

Competition rules 

The judges’ decision is final. Prizes cannot be 

transferred or redeemed for cash. Competitions 

are not open to the sponsors or Caxton 

employees or their families. Get It Magazine 

reserves the right to publish the names of 

winners, who will be contacted telephonically 

and need to collect their prizes from Caxton 

Northern branch within 10 days or they will be 

forfeited. Prizewinners names are published on 

our Facebook page monthly. 

contents 

Why don’t you... 

04 Watch a prime South African band, wear funky socks for charity 

or attend Pro-Life’s ninth birthday 

06 Go armchair adventuring, drink scrummy wine and indulge 

in swoonworthy chocolate 

WISH LIST 

06 Enjoy liquid sunshine, cook with a hint of France in the air 

and wallow in magnificent imagery of Africa from above 

people 

10 Ceramic jewellery artist Nina Bosch is following 

in her family’s footsteps 

BEAUTY & Fashion 

14 From intense colour to sublime scents, we think these 

beauty products are worth squawking about 

decor & gardening 

16 Get sticking with water-slides 

art 

34 Local artist Mariana de Jager talks to us about 

capturing the light 

COMMUNITY 

38 Children love TRAC’s road safety message 

40 Rome wasn’t built in a day 

42 Now is the time to buy local 

Win 

48 A case of delicious Garden Route 

Sauvignon Blanc 2019 

24 - 37 IT’S TIME FOR A HOLISTAY 

Read our fab guide to wonderful bush escapes 

while staying at home 

COVER LOOK 

Nina Bosch 

NOVEMBER 2020 

November 2020 Get It Lowveld 03

A hot date! 

Pencil in these events into your November diary right now! 

If you have a date for our diary, email the info at least a month in advance to jess@lowvelder.co.za 

05 

We’re so excited to see Danny 

Smoke live at Mbombela Golf 

Club. Presented by Skor at Life, tickets 

cost R150pp. The show starts at 7pm. 

Details: Johan Pretorius on 082-334- 

9679 or Hennie Skorbinski on 076-425- 

6439. 

07 

Join us for Pro-Life’s ninth 

birthday party and Lowveld 

Market at Pro-Life Pet Rescue, 

Rehabilitation and Adoption Agency 

outside Mbombela. The event is from 

10am to 2pm and there’s no entrance 

fee. So bring the whole family, there’ll 

be something for everyone. 

Details: 079-498-7971. 

13 

Who’s ready for some live 

music? We sure are! Don’t miss 

out on South African rock legends 

Prime Circle when they perform at 

The Barnyard White River. Tickets 

cost R200pp and can be bought via 

Quicket. Doors open at 5pm and the 

show begins at 7pm. This is a standing 

show, there will be limited seating 

available. Details: 076-027-3402 

or thebarnyardwr@gmail.com. 

The 2020 Sabie 

Xperience (originally 

scheduled for May) is finally here! 

Hosted at Floreat Riverside Lodge 

in Sabie, you don’t want to miss 

this. Come and experience a stage 

race in beautiful, but challenging 

surroundings. Organisers have created 

an event that isn’t only demanding, but 

fun too. The best part is it’s affordable 

and family-friendly. Details: Sandy on 

013-764-3500. 

21 

27 

Lowvelders, get into the swing 

of things with the Silly Socks 

Golf Day in aid of Nelspruit Hospice at 

Mbombela Golf Club. Tee-off is from 

10am. The format is a fourball alliance 

and the event is proudly sponsored by 

Imperial Toyota. Details: 013-744-0952 

or nelspgc@mweb.co.za. 

28 

Keen for an old-fashioned 

country fair? Well the White 

River Country Fete is just up your 

alley. There will be lots of goodies on 

sale, delicious food to sample and 

rocking music to listen to from 10am 

till late. Held at Da Loose Mongoose 

outside White River, entrance is R10 

per vehicle. Come support the White 

River SPCA. Details: Estelle de Villiers on 

083-664-7505. 

The BFM Xmas Market is the perfect place to find the perfect Christmas 

gift. Hosted at Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre outside White River 

from 8am, you’re bound to walk away with that special something. Choose from 

artisanal products, handmade crafts, jewellery, ceramics, plants and toys, or try 

scrumptious home-baked goods, fresh produce, sweet treats, food and drinks, 

and so much more. This market never disappoints. 

20-22 

How does wine tasting, a pop-up 

wine dinner, a ghost hunting tour 

and a gold rush bubbly breakfast 

sound? Divine, we know. Get your 

tickets to the R533 Gold Rush 

Wine Route in Pilgrim’s Rest. 

Tickets start at R100 and can 

be purchased via Quicket. Visit 

www.pilgrims-rest.co.za for more 

information regarding the history 

as well as for accommodation and 

other activities in the area. 

Details: 083-646-3686. 

04 Get It Magazine November 2020

MOPA1146RM

Book club 

Real life thrillers and dreamy chick lit 

and great wine and a box of chocolates. Swoon 

The Family Holiday by Elizabeth Noble is just the most delightful book we’ve 

read in ages. It’s light and easy, with lovely characters you long to be your newbest-friends. 

Teenage angst, family tragedies, new wives and single dads and 

a holiday in a gorgeous luxury retreat in the country... a warm, witty and really 

wonderful weekend read. • Equally as light and enjoyable is Sophie Kinsella’s 

irresistible new novel about falling in love with someone - but not necessarily 

with their life. A writing retreat in Italy and a holiday romance sounds lovely. 

But back home - with his eccentric, naked-sauna-loving family and her terribly 

behaved, shirt-shredding dog - things don’t look as rosy. We love a good chick lit 

read, and Love Your Life is really fun. 

06 Get It Magazine November 2020 

There is so much to love about Groote Post Seasalter wine... the elegance and purity of 

fruit, the vibrant acidity, the oyster shell minerality and saline finish, typical of Sauvignons 

from the maritime cool-climate Darling Hills terroir. Even the name captured the essence of the 

wine. Seasalter 2020 has just been released... and it’s a summer beach escape in a bottle. Think 

grapefruit and zesty lime with hints of fynbos, sea-breeze and a touch of oak. Serve it with 

seafood, of course. Around R150 from wine merchants or groote-post-wines.myshopify.com

We’ve all done it. Thought 

about what we’d do if we won 

a couple of million on the Lotto. 

Who we’d share with. What we’d 

buy. Charities we’d support. 

For years, three couples have 

played the same six numbers 

on the lottery... never winning 

more than a tenner. They’re 

the best of mates, until an 

untruth causes a small rift. And 

soon after that, bingo... the 

six numbers come up... just 

under 18 million pounds. One 

couple’s got the winning ticket. 

And they don’t want to share. 

In Just My Luck, Adele Parks 

looks at the dark side of money, 

at friendship and betrayal and 

good luck gone bad. 

We know Book Club’s all about 

books and wine. But salted caramel. 

And milk chocolate. And Lindt. As 

they say... irresistible. They’re new, 

and you’ll find them at Woolies. 

Deep-cover police agents. Drug lords, smugglers and corrupt cops. International drug ring busts and foiled bank heists. 

Attempts to destabilise the country and threats to life and accusations of being an apartheid spy. Cop Under Cover reads 

like a fast-paced thriller. It’s the story of RS536... a terrific read by Johann van Loggerenberg. • Petrified flesh. Frozen cheeks. 

Breaking speed records to ensure survival in a harsh Antarctic winter. Scaling Dome Charlie, one of the highest summits on 

the Antarctic Ice Sheet. A hellish race against death. But also a childhood dream come true. A story of overcoming adversity 

through sheer willpower. Of seeing what’s possible when one has the support and love of family and friends. Dream of a 

Lifetime: Crossing Antarctica is Mike Horn’s story of crossing the South Pole unassisted... a journey across 5 100 km (being 

the longest, most challenging route) by kite-ski and sled alone. It’s a daredevil’s first-hand account of realising a crazy dream. 

• From real life tension to the latest Tom Clancy thriller, with Jack Ryan Jr. When an unexpected - and unusually unfriendly 

- meeting with an ex-girlfriend in a Barcelona cafe ends with a bomb exploding, Jack stumbles into an international 

conspiracy that could well be something more than he can handle. Written by Mike Maden, Tomy Clancy’s Firing Point is 

gripping from start to finish. 

November 2020 Get It Magazine 07

Wish list 

Summer time... and the living’s so easy 

These beaded wrap bracelets are the prettiest way to accessorise 

a Summer outfit. Made from Japanese Miyuki glass beads in 

gorgeous colours (we fancy this teal and aqua option), and 

dainty charms, they’re elasticated and wrap comfortably 

round the average wrist six times. Wear one, or a few, for a 

colourful boho look. R350 from themakerycollection.com 

A breath of French air 

There’s a recipe in Jan - A Breath of French Air, for a biltong 

and crisp sandwich. Made with simple fresh white bread and 

Mrs Ball’s chutney, Jan get tears in his eyes when he eats it. 

There’s also one for a naartjie panna cotta with Rice Krispies 

chocolate rocks. Tastes of home in Nice, France. Lots of them. 

Cape seed loaf and mosbolletjies and his mother’s souttert. 

Loads and loads of more sophisticated dishes too... many of 

them suprisingly easy. No surprise at all that they’re delicious. 

This, Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen’s second book, is page 

after page of deliciousness... and there are dishes you’ll make 

again and again. We’re off for a biltong and crisp sarmie. 

Penguin Random House, R490 

Tastes of Clifton 

Sun-bronzed skin. A warm Summer breeze. Soft golden 

sand. Icy, clear water that refreshes like no other. That’s 

Clifton. And we don’t need to be heading there these 

summer hols... we can just make ourselves a cocktail with 

the new Clifton gin. Created by SA born Silvana Bottega 

(who describes it as liquid sunshine in a sip), the gin’s 

already won two gold medals. There are two versions... 

Clifton 1 and Clifton 2 (just like the numbered protected 

coves of Clifton beaches). Clifton 1 is a sipping gin, all 

orange and lemon peel, lavender and fynbos, and is best 

served on the rocks. Clifton 2 - the cocktail gin - is eminently 

mixable. With hues of the sea, it’s all about marine and 

fynbos botanicals, cucumber and buchu, all working in 

harmony to capture the spirit of the Atlantic Ocean. The 

gins cost between R429 and R498 a bottle and you’ll find 

them at good bottlestores or on cliftongin.com 

Compiled by KYM ARGO 


Taking inspiration from nature 

We’re lusting over this Wanderland Collective Oceanum round 

pouch bag. Made of velvet fabric printed with a hand-painted 

design inspired by the ocean - shells, textured mosses, algae and 

darting jellyfish - it comes with a detachable tassel and 

gold-coloured chain strap, which is long enough so the 

bag can be worn cross-body. It’s just the right size for your 

phone, lipstick and credit card. Plus it ticks the 

‘support local’ box... it’s made here, with the design by 

local textile designer and artist Nicole Levenberg. There 

are few colours and designs to choose from... we fancy 

this Moss version. R785 from equilibrio.co.za 

Africa from the air... a collection of extraordinary images in one magnificent book 

The continent of Africa has always held an irresistible allure and fascination for aerial photographers Jay and Jan Roode, 

who, when they’re not taking visitors on bespoke aerial safaris, roam the skies, capturing awe-inspiring images of the natural 

wonders of far-flung regions. The pair have spent thousands of hours in their specially modified aircraft, and for more than a 

decade have flown to, and photographed, some of the most remote and spectacular wilderness areas of southern Africa. The 

magnificent Aerial Art is the culmination of their remarkable journey. With a vibrant collection of wild and enchanting images 

that are instantly recognisable by their unique style and approach, the photographs convey an intimacy with, and reverence 

for, the wilderness that reflects their passion for the conservation and preservation of the landscapes they’ve flown over. The 

book has a magnetic clip hardcover case, 65 glorious double-page spreads as well as a comprehensive index with a thumbnail 

of each image and a brief description at the back of the book. The book costs R980, but there’s also a limited run of 200 copies 

with an alternative cover, which costs R1960, which includes a R1000 gift voucher which can be used towards the purchase of 

a fine art print of any image in the book. You’ll find the book at Exclusive Books or order online from hphpublishing.co.za 


10 Get It Lowveld November 2020

Prett 

y 

IN PORCELAIN 

Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY. Photographer: SAVANNAH GREEF 

Nina Bosch comes from 

a long line of creatives. 

Apart from her parents, 

Anton and Hanlie, 

and aunt, Esra, her 

grandfather, Esias, was 

well known and loved in 

the area, and an artist par 

excellence, renowned for 

his beautiful tile murals 

and porcelain ware. 

Nina’s grandparents, Esias and Valerie 

Bosch, made the Lowveld their home 

in 1960, where he started his studio 

in Plaston on the outskirts of White 

River. Growing up, clay was second 

nature to the young Nina, who, along 

with her siblings, loved to experiment 

in her father’s studio. “We painted on 

tiles, made little figurines and rolled 

and painted clay beads. It was always 

extremely exciting to see what would 

Nina Bosch 


come out of the kilns,” she smiles. 

“My grandmother was a porcelain 

jewellery maker, and I have always 

been interested in fine porcelain. 

I also always knew I wanted to do 

something creative as a career, but I 

never imagined I would have my own 

porcelain jewellery design business, 

which only came after studying in a 

completely different creative direction!” 

While Nina never realised that her 

hobby would end up being her career, 

she started receiving more and more 

attention for her pieces, appearing 

in various publications, including VISI 

magazine. The public’s interest in her 

work escalated. Before she knew what 

was happening, Nina Bosch Porcelain 

Jewellery was born, to great acclaim. 

“I started exhibiting my work at various 

markets countrywide and also took 

part in international exhibitions. Soon 

I was stocking stores both locally and 

internationally. I’ve even had Meghan, 

the Duchess of Sussex, wear my 

earrings!” she says proudly. 

'I’m proud of 

each piece I 

create and 

believe 

individuality 

is key’ 

Nina, like her grandmother before 

her, has always loved fashion and 

accessories. She enjoys working with 

and making fine and delicate jewellery, 

so designing and creating statement 

pieces was a natural path to follow. 

“I’m proud of each piece I create and 

believe individuality is key. Each one 

is handmade by me, and because 

kiln firing may cause variations in 

the glaze colours, no two are ever 

the same. I love what I do, creating 

so freely is definitely not ‘just a job’. I 

have a passion for my work and find it 

both exciting and challenging. If you 

are happy in your work, then you can 

surely be happy in your life. There’s 

nothing more therapeutic for me than 

rolling out clay and creating designs 

with my hands.” 

Inspired by nature and being 

passionate about the environment, 

Nina, Anton and Hanlie 

Nina and her partner, Nick Bowen 


‘This period has 

taught me the 

importance of 

patience, 

gratitude for 

small things 

and kindness' 

Nina actively encourages people to take 

responsibility for their actions, especially 

regarding recycling and waste. She is 

also highly motivated by people with 

a strong work ethic, and is devoted to 

friends and family. She is quick to say 

that coffee and red wine come a close 

second! 

Growing up in the Lowveld meant a 

carefree existence outdoors, and she 

loves spending time in the garden and 

growing anything edible. While no 

longer a local resident - she recently 

moved to the fairest Cape to join her 

partner, Nick - she does miss home. “The 

Lowveld has the perfect climate, and 

of course, I miss my family. However, 

it is very exciting to be in the Cape. 

The winter weather is a challenge...” 

she laughs. For now, she is having 

a wonderful time exploring all the 

beautiful places the region has to offer 

and is loving every moment. 

Lockdown and Covid-19 have not left 

Nina untouched, but her optimism is 

inspiring and infectious. “It has been a 

greatly challenging time for everyone, 

for the whole world, and like every 

other company I have felt the impact. 

However, now that restrictions are 

lifting, business is picking up again. This 

period has taught me the importance 

of patience, gratitude for small things 

and kindness - always kindness.” 

There is still plenty that this young 

artist wants to achieve. Expanding 

the business and attending more 

international markets are just two 

things on her list. A never-ending 

dream of hers is to have a large studio, 

in which she would be able to train and 

empower local women. “I’d also love 

my own store - now that would be so 

exciting!” she laughs. Watch this space. 

We think the Duchess of Sussex is just 

the beginning, and we cannot wait 

for this local entrepreneur to take the 

world by storm. 

Details 

www.ninabosch.co.za 


Who’s a 

Pretty 

polly 

Beauty products worth 

squawking about 

We admit, we’ve gone a little bird 

mad this month. We’re loving - 

and took inspiration from - this 

vintage Broad Tailed 

Parrot print... available in 

loads of sizes to suit 

your space. From 

R480 to R4980 from 

bespokehome.co.za 

Compiled by: KYM ARGO 


Wink, wink, kiss, kiss. For dramatic 

eyes, Elizabeth Arden High Drama 

Eyeliner in Midnight Dream, and for 

our favourite gloss... Elizabeth Arden 

Beautiful Colour Liquid Lip Gloss 

in Red Door VIP. R265 and 

R295 respectively from 

Mopani. 

Let’s be honest. If you’re looking for intense colour, you 

don’t really need look much further than MAC. This, In the 

Shadows vibrant blue eyeshadow, is highly pigmented for 

pure colour and fits neatly into the MAC Pro Palette case. 

R150. And if green with envy’s more your scene, then this 

New Crop vivid hunter green powder eyeshadow with 

pearl will do the trick. It applies evenly, blends well, and 

ticks the eye-catching box. R280 from maccosmetics.co.za 

One for the boys. Amouage has just unveiled Interlude Black Iris Man. Inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe’s famous painting of 

the eponymous name, Black Iris is spicy, woody Eau de Parfum... with the pay-off line being ‘tranquillity born in a moment of 

chaos’. Very apt. R5550 from Woolworths, Truworths and Edgars • Created by French perfumers, Artistique Magnolia en Fleurs 

is one of three new fragrances from Avon. This one’s a symphony of Chinese magnolias... a joyful scent with dewy notes 

and soft musks. R600 from myavon.co.za • A fiery, seductive fragrance, Narciso Rodriguez Rouge is a bouquet of Bulgarian 

rose and iris, with vivid amber woody notes. R1070 from Mopani • The latest creation from Hermés, L’Ombre des Merveilles. 

Packaged in an intense and luminous blue bottle resembling a magnifying glass, the fragrance was inspired by the union of 

day and night... it’s mysterious, woody, oriental and enveloping. From R1905. 


Get 

sticking 

Text and photographer: MATTHYS FERREIRA 

Have you ever seen 

a beautiful picture 

and wished you could 

display it on a door, 

fridge or otherwise? 

Developments in the hobby and 

art industry now make it possible 

to jazz up your fridge and/or 

cupboard doors, as well as other 

surfaces, with visuals that uplift 

your mood and make you smile 

with delight. 

This process is called waterslides, 

and November is the 

perfect month to start with the 

renovation of different surfaces 

in your house making use of this 

technique. 

Be mindful to apply it to smooth, 

non-porous surfaces only. 

Untreated surfaces will absorb 

the glue that is used, impairing 

the longevity of your picture. 

Shopping list 

• Chalk paint 

• Water-slide picture(s) - these can 

be bought from an art shop or 

Concrete and Garden Creations 

just outside Mbombela on the 

Barberton Road 

• A serving tray large and deep 

enough to accommodate the size 

of your picture 

• The object you wish to use 

• Paintbrushes 

• La Lacquer sealer 

• Water. 

We used an old cupboard door 

for this project. 


Step 1: Choose your water-slide 

pictures and decide how you 

want to arrange them on the 

chosen surface. 

Step 2: Clean the surface and 

then paint it with your chosen 

chalk paint. Allow time for it to 

dry properly, then seal the surface 

with one coat of La Lacquer 

sealer. Let it dry completely. 

Step 3: Once the surface is dry 

and ready, add enough water 

into the serving tray to allow you 

to soak the water-slide picture. It 

may curl up when you put it into 

the water. 

Step 4: Gently stretch and 

smooth it out while ensuring 

that the whole surface/picture is 

soaked. This will take less than a 

minute. 

Step 5: While the picture is still 

in the water, gently start to shift/ 

move the bottom layer from the 

top as soon as it starts to lift. 

Step 6: Wet the surface (in this 

case the door panel) slightly and 

evenly with water. 

Step 7: Lay/position the picture 

onto the door surface and 

smooth it out while cautiously 

and completely removing the 

bottom (the base) layer from the 

picture. 

Step 8: Once completed, crumble 

the base in your hand and use it 

to smooth out the picture on the 

new surface. 

Step 9: These pictures are 

fairly robust, so it is possible to 

reposition or straighten them. 

Step 10: Allow it to dry for 24 

hours and then paint it with a thin 

layer of lacquer to seal the surface 

and make it water-resistant and 

easy to clean. 

It is possible to place these water 

slide pictures onto glass surfaces/ 

objects. 

Wet the glass object before you 

transfer the picture, place the 

object in the oven and switch 

it on. Set the oven to 160°C 

and as soon as it reaches the 

temperature, bake/dry it for 20 

minutes. It must also be left in the 

oven to cool down.

PORTRAIT 

of the 

ARTIST 


Mariana de Jager was born to be an artist, and has been 

creating things ever since she can remember, including 

drawing on her grandfather’s floors with crayons. 

Mariana de Jager 

Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY 

“I 

got into so much 

trouble!” she laughs 

at the memory. “But 

then I got clever, 

and drew inside the 

cupboards, so my 

parents wouldn’t 

see. I just wanted 

to make pictures!” Unfortunately, as 

is so often the case, she strayed from 

her calling, thinking she couldn’t 

possibly make a living from painting. 

The siren call was strong though. In 

2018 Mariana made the decision to 

become a full-time artist, working 

from her studio on the beautiful 

Claremont Road outside Mbombela, 

where there is no shortage of 

inspiration. “I paint every single day of 

my life, or at least draw something if I 

don’t have a lot of time. And believe 

me, you do need time!” she laughs. “I 

always say I’m just going to paint for 

10 minutes, but then find that four 

hours have passed!” 

Mariana studied art as a subject at 

school, but found it extremely boring. 

She went into fashion design at the 

Technikon Pretoria and obtained 

her national diploma. She worked 

as a designer for a couple of years, 

but then decided to change careers. 

Mariana started working at a printing 

company as a graphic designer - 

this prompted her to do a course 

in it. “I love to learn new skills and 

techniques,” she smiles, but painting 

is ultimately where her heart lies. 

Her medium of choice is oils, which 

she has been using since her school 

days. “I love how the paint glides 

smoothly over the canvas; it’s almost 

a sensual feeling. Every now and 

then I use watercolour, but my first 

love will always be oils.” Mariana also 

adores Chinese ink sticks - you have 

to make up the ink before you can 

use it, but she finds it extremely 

therapeutic. 

“Working in the art field is a calling,” 

she muses. “It’s something you have 

to do to keep sane, certainly in my 

case. It makes me whole. But you 

also have to treat it like a business; 

otherwise you would never sell 

anything. Actually, you straddle a bit 

of both worlds, but it is never ‘just a 

job’, I enjoy it way too much. I do have 

‘bad days’ where nothing I do looks 

good, and I just have to stop and let it 

1+ Get It Lowveld November 2020

go. But those are very few luckily.” 

This artist likes to use different styles in one 

artwork, paint bits that are soft and realistic, 

while incorporating parts that are more bold, 

expressive and textured. She believes that this 

makes the painting more exciting, rather than 

making use of just one style. “I feel every bit of 

canvas must be visually interesting to the viewer, 

and there has to be a balance between calm 

and chaos. I like it if people want to touch my 

paintings, to me it means they have been drawn 

in and want to use all of their senses to explore 

the artwork. I also like to deliberately break the 

rules of composition. I’m a bit of a rebel,” she 

laughs. 

Mariana’s non-conformist approach is an 

inspiration. She is motivated by everything she 

sees, from sunsets to fallen leaves, and true to her 

artistic nature collects all sorts of fallen objects, 

such as sticks, rocks and stones, seeing the 

beauty of nature in their form, and the pictures 

they create within themselves. She is passionate 

about animals, and they form a large part of her 

portfolio. “Frankly,” she says, “I cannot imagine life 

without my puppies. I tell them what I’m doing, 

and speak to them constantly; of course they 

understand everything I say.” 

Part of a successful animal - or human - 

composition, is often the artist’s rendering of the 

eyes, and since she can remember Mariana has 

been fascinated by them. “It’s the colours, the 

subtle shapes and shadows, the reflections and 

wateriness that I love,” she says. “How they look 

like volcanos with little electric lights around the 

edges when you look closely. If I get the eyes 

right, the rest isn’t that important. Lately I have 

been trying to capture them with as little detail 


as possible, and still make them look alive. It’s quite 

true what they say; eyes are the window to the 

soul.” She also paints flowers and other objects, but 

portraits, both human and animal, are her favourite 

subjects. 

While this artist likes to take every day as it comes, 

she has a few aspirations and plans for the future. A 

solo exhibition is one and having her paintings in 

every country is another. “I have done commissions 

that went to the US, the Netherlands, Canada 

and Australia,” Mariana says proudly, but why stop 

there? She may take things day by day, but is 

constantly working on her goals. “I always find that 

in reality things don’t work out as you plan, but I 

still grab every single opportunity that comes my 

way. And I do believe that you have to make your 

own luck!” 

We are watching this Lowveld creative with a 

beady eye. While it may be true that you make 

your own luck, fortune also favours the brave, and 

if these bold, expressive works are any indication. 

we can expect to see that solo exhibition in the 

very near future. 

Details 

Contact Mariana on 083-479-3323 

or at imagine.sign@gmail.com 

or follow her, @kanditsomoeilikwees

A brand-new extravaganza has come to Mbombela, and it is well 

worth a visit. Situated at 22 Ferriera Street at the Dos Santos Shell 

House is TOPS at SPAR Chippos, a bespoke liquor retailer that prides 

itself on its individual style. Lizani Dos Santos is the owner of this 

prestigious establishment and her vision incorporates an ideal of class 

that ensures the shopper feels at home in what cannot be described 

as the average bottle store. 

Boasting a distinctive and stylish interior with a boutique feel, entering 

TOPS at SPAR Chippos is akin to walking into a wonderland. Lizani’s 

main focus is to make sure that women feel at ease, and can browse 

to their hearts’ content while being more comfortable than they 

normally would in a traditional liquor store. Their shopping experience 

will feel like an outing, an exciting event to be savoured and looked 

forward to. 

Having said this, this TOPS isn’t only about the ladies, its male 

customers are just as important. On the contrary, a large refrigerator 

offering ice-cold beer makes sure the men are quite at ease. Ranging 

from a quart of beer to a bottle of Rémy Martin, the store offers 

something for everyone and in every price range. Not only does it 

stock bespoke items, but a range of fine wines is available for the 

discerning wine drinker. We truly look forward to welcoming you to 

our new store.

STARTING 

FROM R1.6M 

Please call us to make an appointment to view. 

MORE OUT OF 

RETIREMENT 

FOR LESS THAN 

YOU THINK 

IT TURNS OUT, YOU CAN PUT A PRICE ON YOUR DREAM 

RETIREMENT AND WITH US, IT’S AN AFFORDABLE ONE… 

At Renishaw Hills, a mature lifestyle village and celebrated coastal gem located in Scottburgh, 

KwaZulu-Natal, we deliver unmatched value that goes beyond price alone. Our Reversionary 

Transfer Obligation model (similar to Life Rights) gives you the most for your money 

so that you can retire the way you’ve always wanted to. 

From as little as R1.64 million, you’ll get more than just stunning views, spectacular 

finishes and a well-designed home that celebrates the best of Mother Nature and 

indoor/outdoor living. You’ll be enjoying our laid-back lifestyle, inclusive community, 

state-of-the-art security and glorious weather. Our popular Phase 5 is going fast and 

every home is now available at RTO prices. Want to live the holiday the way our residents 

do? Book your private tour complete with strict health and safety measures when you 

email sales@renishawhills.co.za or take our virtual tours on www.renishawhills.co.za. 

THE START OF A NEW ADVENTURE 

Julieann: 084 514 8028 | sales@renishawhills.co.za | www.renishawhills.co.za

Birds of a feather 

...flock together, with essential and nice-to-have accessories for your holistay! 

Twitchers are all a-quiver 

The 5th revised edition of the Sasol The Larger Illustrated Guide to Birds of 

Southern Africa has just been released ... bigger, expanded and brought fully up-todate 

by its expert author panel, with additional contributions from two new birding 

experts. Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey, Warwick Tarboton, Niall Perrins, Dominic Rollinson & 

Peter Ryan (whew ... quite a line-up) have made sure this best-selling guide maintains 

its place as one of Africa’s most trusted field guides. With more than 3000 illustrations 

(more than 800 new), a scan-and-play bird-call feature using a free downloadable 

app (which contains more than 1000 calls for 866 species), fully revised text, maps 

and plate annotations and a comprehensive coverage of the region’s birds, this 

edition is in a larger format, making it far easier to use. R450. • For those who 

prefer it, the new, vastly improved and really easy-to-use Sasol eBirds Southern 

Africa App is a superb option. The app covers all 989 bird species in line with 

the latest taxonomical changes, has loads of updated info from the existing 

and new contributing authors, more than 1000 bird calls and more than 2700 

photographs (with no in-app purchase required) and plenty of new illustrations 

with finer attention to detail. With text in English and Afrikaans, the app also has 

distribution maps updated with latest known ranges and Quick-Play bird calls 

right from the menu. The app will be updated regularly, and freely, constantly 

improving the content, features and functionality. Download on the App Store 

or get it on Google Play. 

Compiled by: KYM ARGO 

Binocs worth 

tweeting about 

Let’s pretend, just 

for a minute, that 

money’s no probs. 

We’d take up birding 

just to own these sexy 

Swarovski EL 10x42 

O-Range Binoculars. 

They offer, obviously, 

the very best combo 

of long-range optics 

and ergonomic design 

along with razor-sharp 

images, precise range, 

perfectly balanced 

weight. They come in 

at a jaw-dropping R72 

000. But.... orange. You’ll 

find them, and a whole 

host of more affordable, 

perfectly adequate, 

boringly black binocs at 

takealot.com 

Brilliant bags for birders 

This Mellville and Moon Ornithologist Bible Bag, 

which can be worn over your shoulder or attached to 

your belt, has room for not only your bird book, but 

also has handy pockets for all the extras you need 

to take on a birding outing... water and a notepad, 

your GPS and sunnies, perhaps a hip flask and the 

odd cigar. It comes in khaki or black, and is R1500. If 

it’s a little more than what you need, you may prefer 

the Bird Book Cover... what Mellville and Moon 

call the plain LBJ version. Also available in khaki or 

black, it’s got a shoulder/ body strap for carrying 

your book on your birding outing. R1200. Both from 

melvillandmoon.com 


Soothe 

your soul with bush therapy 


The entire world has one thing in 

common - we never want to relive 

2020 again. Since March our lives 

have been turned upside down and 

many have faced turmoil, extreme 

stress and by now feel tired and 

weary. A bit of bush therapy may be 

exactly what the doctor has ordered. 

Irma Green shares her recent 

experience in the heart of the Kruger 

National Park. 

s we pulled up to the front of Imbali Safari 

Lodge, the friendly staff awaited us with a 

handcloth, sanitiser and did the necessary 

paperwork required to adhere to 

Covid-19 lockdown regulations. After 

quick introductions we were led to 

the main reception area while our 

luggage was taken care of. 

The grim circumstances of our 

current situation, disappeared into thin air as we walked 

through the lodge and were greeted by a herd of 

elephants drinking at the waterhole, with only a dry 

riverbed between us. It was as if the Kruger had sent us 

a world-class marketing team to handle the welcoming 

ceremony. 

The lunch table was already set and we were served our 

first feast of many to follow in the next few days. We were 

joined by a few tourism operators and the CEO Sales and 

Marketing of Extraordinary, Cindy Sheedy Walker, who 

represents 16 exclusive lodges and hotels in South Africa. 

Excitement was tangible as the tourism industry had 

started to reignite and bookings were slowly starting to 

come in. “We can’t event begin to explain how we have 

suffered, but we are now looking forward and will rise 

from the ashes,” Cindy said optimistically. 

Imbali, Hamiltons Tented Camp and Hoyo Hoyo Safari 

Lodge all fall within a 10 000-hectare private concession 

operated by Extraordinary. All three lodges are worldrenowned 

for their exclusivity and super luxurious settings. 

“We are usually fully booked months in advance 

and mostly by overseas visitors. At Imbali we offer 

12 immaculate suites of unrestrained luxury, while 

both Hamiltons and Hoyo Hoyo only have six suites 

each where our guests are treated like royalty,” Cindy 

explained. The pandemic with its travel restrictions has 

offered an opportunity for local tourists to also experience 

the tranquillity and bliss that a few days in the bush 

can guarantee. 


Imbali 

Imbali Safari Lodge is set on the banks 

of the Nwatswitswonto River in the 

central Kruger. All suites are steeped 

in modern-day opulence and luxury. 

Beautifully appointed with only the 

finest furniture, imported linen, and 

fine mosquito netting gracing the 

interiors, you are guaranteed a good 

night’s rest. Each suite has a plunge 

pool with stunning views over the 

riverbed and onto the plains beyond. 

During our stay we saw elephant and 

buffalo stroll past, unaware of our 

existence as we just admired the smells 

and sounds of the bush. The main 

lounge area also has a swimming pool 

which overlooks the waterhole with 

game frequenting throughout the day 

to enjoy a cooling drink. 

Our meals were served on the deck 

and in the dining room where an 

impressive jackalberry rises through 

the decked floor. The cuisine was 

world-class and served with a selection 

of the best South African wines. 

Mornings started early with a wakeup 

call, coffee and then we set out 

on safari vehicles to explore what the 

bush had to offer. As the saying goes, 

“The early bird catches the worm” 

and we were blessed with stunning 

sightings. In some plain areas we saw 

up to five species together. At one 

stage we followed the king of the 

jungle for kilometres as he strolled on 

either the road or just next to it. 

During our first sunset drive we were 

spoilt by Hoyo Hoyo with sundowners 

accompanied by the most delicious 

canapés, while being entertained by 

a lazy elephant sipping water at the 

waterhole in front of us. 

Hoyo Hoyo 

This lodge with six luxury “beehive” 

suites is built in the style of Tsonga 

architecture with earth-coloured 

walls, outdoor showers and private 

game viewing decks all charmingly 

decorated with African fabrics, decor 

and art sourced from local Tsonga 

communities. Here one can also enjoy 

Nomadic African Spa treatments. On 

our second afternoon’s game drive 

our guide stopped at the beautiful 

Hamiltons Tented Camp, named 

after Colonel Stephenson Hamilton, 

who played an instrumental part in 

establishing the Kruger National Park. 

'Hamiltons takes you back to a 

bygone era of balmy evenings 

sipping on a drink dressed in 

white cotton’ 


Hamiltons Tented Camp 

Expect the unexpected and be 

prepared to forget about connection 

with the outside world. There is neither 

Wi-Fi nor cell phone signal at both 

Hamiltons and Hoyo Hoyo. Hamiltons 

epitomises luxury with an outstanding 

safari experience. The magnificent 

tented suites boast teak floorboards, 

outdoor showers and slipper baths 

that overlook the seasonal river where 

we saw a herd of elephant bathing 

and drinking water. The suites and 

main lodge are connected with raised 

timber walkways among the ancient 

jackalberries. The camp epitomises 

colonial lifestyle and I felt as if I was 

on the set of the epic movie Out 

of Africa in which Meryl Streep and 

Robert Redford played the lead roles. 

Hamiltons takes you back to a bygone 

era of balmy evenings sipping on a 

drink dressed in white cotton. After 

leaving, another surprise awaited 

us in a dry riverbed not too far from 

the camp, where a delectable gin 

tasting was set up with only lamps 

lighting up the area and our guides 

keeping an eye out for uninvited 

guests. We reminisced and chatted 

with guests from the other camps and just wallowed in the beauty of Africa with 

a million stars looking down on us. Back at Imbali later that evening we couldn’t 

stop talking about the amazing experience of the past two days. We were, in 

all honesty, not ready to leave yet and just wanted to linger a bit longer in a 

world where your conversations are dominated by comparing animal sightings, 

identifying tree and bird species, and enjoying delicious food and drink. 

Exclusive package for Get It readers from November 1 to December 24 

Imbali Safari Lodge: R3 850 per person sharing per night 

Hamiltons Tented Camp: R4 470 per person sharing per night 

Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge: R2 750 per person sharing per night 

Rates include all meals and two safaris daily. Selected local beverages are also 

included. 

Details 

res@extraordinary.co.za or 011-516-4367 


Interesting places to visit in the land of the 

RISING SUN 

Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY 

Mpumalanga is home to a diverse range 

of options for day trips, weekend getaways 

and interesting stopovers. There are any 

number of bird and hiking tours, trips to 

the numerous stunning waterfalls and 

nature reserves, and the amount of fauna 

and flora available to view is astounding. 

There is no need to leave home for faraway 

regions, simply check out our handy 

Holistay guide and be amazed at the 

wonder that awaits you on our very own 

doorstep. 

The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountainland, 

a World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest 

geological structures in the world, with 

rock structures going back 3,5 billion years. 


The geotrail is a fascinating and beautiful route depicting what the world 

looked like before the dinosaurs roamed the earth. Rocks found here occur in 

two places on earth, and this is the only accessible place. 

Blyde River Canyon, the largest green canyon in the world, is a magnificent 

explosion of nature at its best and includes famous landmarks such as Bourke’s 

Luck Potholes, God’s Window, the Three Rondavels, The Pinnacle, and the 

Lisbon and Berlin falls. 

The Graskop Gorge Lift descends 51 metres down the face of the gorge 

into a veritable woodland, where visitors are transported into a paradise of 

indiginous forest by a wooden walkway and suspension bridge. 

Pilgrim’s Rest is a quaint village steeped in the history of the gold rush era, 

complete with gold panning and ghost tours. A must is a drink at Church Bar 

at the famous Royal Hotel. 

Goliath’s Footprint is ostensibly proof that giants once existed, on what is 

now a farm near the town of Ermelo. Legend says the footprint belonged 

to a 10-metre-tall woman who was killed by an erupting volcano as she ran 

towards her lover, leaving behind an imprint that remains visible 100 million 

years after her death. 

The megalithic stones of Adam’s Calendar in the quirky village of Kaapsehoop 

are a revelation. Believed to have existed for over 200 000 years and said by 

some to be the oldest man-made structure in the world, the edifice precedes 

the pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge by thousands of years. Deeply 

entrenched into the earth, the uncommon stones align to the cardinal points, 

solstrices and equinoxes, and are not from the area. 

A few others worth a mention... 

• SA’s very own Lake District at Chrissiesmeer, consisting of approximately 

270 lakes and pans 

• The glorious Long Tom Toboggan, a 1,7-kilomtere wild ride down the 

mountainside 

• The oldest dolomite caves in the world, the Sudwala Caves, have been around 

for 240 million years 

• The famous two-million hectare Kruger National Park, which needs no 

introduction 

• The Skukuza Golf Course, where your golf balls are as likely to be swallowed by 

crocs as batted about by lions. 

SKY1146NN

S erenity 

on your doorstep 

Pinehurst Place 

Penny’s Place on Greenway 

Details 

Visit www.pinehurstplaceguestlodge.com to view our many five-star reviews, 

email pinehurstplace36@gmail.com or contact Penny Robinson on 083-376-1118 

Pinehurst Place is set in the beautiful, 

peaceful and secure surroundings of 

the White River Country Estate and 

Country Club. It offers guests a choice of 

four tastefully decorated, fully serviced, 

self-catering studios. All of them have 

the full DStv bouquet and unlimited 

Wi-Fi. Guests have access to all 

the country club amenities, 

consisting of an 18-hole 

championship golf course, 

swimming pool, tennis court, 

squash court, bar, and patio 

overlooking the golf course 

for breakfasts and light lunches. 

Walking enthusiasts may walk the 

4,5 kilometres, day or night, in the 

safe and secure surrounds of the country 

estate while viewing small game and 

birdwatching. Penny’s Place on Greenway 

is situated on the adjoining, secure 

Greenway Woods Resort, with its spacious, 

well-manicured rolling lawns, swimming 

pool, children’s playground, outdoor 

chess board, volleyball court, bar and 

restaurant. Our newly renovated, tastefully 

decorated guest cottage consists of 

three bedrooms, three bathrooms, fully 

equipped modern kitchen, lounge, dining 

area and large covered patio with built-in 

braai. Ideal for a family getaway or group 

of three couples to experience one of the 

Lowveld’s unique sunsets, while enjoying 

an afternoon sundowner. Prices range 

from R780 to R880 per night, per studio 

and from R2 200 per night, for the guest 

cottage 

Pinehurst Place and Penny’s Place 

are only 25 minutes from the Kruger 

National Park and KMI Airport. They are 

on the Panorama Route that is host to 

many scenic routes and an 

abundance of places to 

visit such as Graskop’s 

big swing, the lift 

at Graskop Gorge, 

Bourke’s Luck 

Potholes, the Three 

Sisters, Kaapsehoop 

and many more. For 

the more adventurous 

there is hot air 

ballooning, quad biking, 

hiking, cycling trails and bungee 

jumping in close proximity. Within three 

kilometres are the quaint shopping 

complexes of Bagdad and Casterbridge 

which host a cinema, vintage car 

museum, beauty spa, children’s play park 

and numerous fine restaurants. 


RM-GRAS1146M

EcoTraining offers a unique experience in the form of 

a one-year professional field guide course for people 

either serious about pursuing a career in it or those 

looking for an educational and meaningful gap year. 

Discover the 

wild with 

EcoTraining 

What is a field guide? 

This person is essentially the facilitator between safari 

guests and the natural world. Using skills to share 

knowledge and enhance experiences, helping people 

to reconnect with the wilderness. A role of a field 

guide is unique and extremely diverse; he/she needs 

to be a great communicator, narrator, empathetic 

decision maker and above all an ambassador for 

conservation. Each day bring new experiences and 

adventures. 

How do I become qualified? 

Knowledge is vitally important; however, a field guide 

needs to have the skills in which to deliver knowledge 

in a digestible, fascinating and interesting way to 

guests. To become a field guide you will need to learn 

how to combine knowledge with skills. All of this you 

will learn on the EcoTraining professional field guide 

course. For one year you will be exposed to diverse 

ecological and geological terrains, landscapes, wildlife 

species and so much more at wilderness camps in 

Watch this video to find out more. It will give 

you a holistic view of what to expect on this 

comprehensive and life-changing course: 

https://youtu.be/p07Zbm1tiPM. 


emote places such as the Kruger 

National Park and Botswana. You will 

gain knowledge from experienced 

instructors who have a combined 

120+ years’ real life bush experience. In 

an untamed wilderness overflowing 

with life, you will come face to 

face with the Big 5 as well as other 

spectacular animals. During this year, 

you will be exposed to life-changing 

experiences in Africa. If this is not 

enough, you will create friendships 

forged around the camp fire and 

memories that will stay with you for a 

lifetime. 

What does an EcoTraining professional 

field guide course entail? 

Up to five months of theoretical and 

practical training with highly qualified 

instructors will qualify you with various 

certificate courses. The following five 

to six months will be at a lodge where 

you will work with experienced guides 

and lodge managers, mentoring 

you and developing your newly 

acquired skills. At the end of the 

course you will not only be qualified, 

but will have also gained invaluable 

working and practical experience. 

Even better is that for this year of 

adventure, environmental education 

and conservation, you walk away with 

national accreditation by CATHSSETA, 

an endorsement by the Field Guide 

Association of Southern Africa 

(FGASA). Doing this course has many 

benefits, especially with EcoTraining. 

The professional field guide students 

comprise a group of up to 20 people 

from all around the world. You want to 

learn a new culture? You have 20 from 

which to choose. Not to mention the 

culture of nature and its inhabitants. 

Living in the bush has a magical way 

of harnessing the best version of you. 

Your vision becomes clearer, your 

instincts become sharper and not 

to mention the close observation 

encounters of wild animals passing 

through the camp! So, if you love the 

idea of taking guests from all over the 

world out on walking and game drive 

safaris into Africa’s wild places, finding 

wildlife for them, teaching them 

fascinating facts about the animals 

and ecosystems, then EcoTraining’s 

professional field guide course is 

for you. 

To learn more about the professional field guide course, visit www.ecotraining. 

co.za/programs-courses/professional-guide/. Programme locations: Southern 

Africa (South Africa and Botswana). Website: www.ecotraining.co.za. 

Admissions contact: enquiries@ecotraining.co.za. Telephone: +27-13-752-2532. 

Follow us on social media: Facebook: EcotrainingAfrica, Twitter: @ecotraining, 

Instagram: @ecotraining and YouTube: EcoTraining TV. 


Hiking by numbers 

Energetic and challenging or slow and rambling, depending on your mood 

and fitness levels, there’s not much to beat getting outdoors and enjoying a hike. 

Still suffering a little fear of going out? Definitely. Fear of heading to the great outdoors? Never. While the world’s topsy turvy, 

one thing will never change. The joy of getting out on gorgeous warm day, taking a hike, and enjoying one of the amazing 

hiking trails our country has to offer. Be a it a soul searching solo walk for a few hours, or a day out with the family, having 

fun without a screen or a digital device in sight, you’ll come back maybe a little stiff, hopefully a little tired, and certainly a lot 

happier and less stressed than when you set out. We chatted to Thule’s resident hike enthusiast, who gave the low down on 

the gear we need. 

Three things to look for 

when buying a hiking backpack: 

1. A hiking backpack needs to distribute weight evenly. 

The most important factor to keep in mind is comfort. No 

matter how many cool features it has, if the bag does not sit 

comfortably on your back and shoulders, then it is not the 

right hiking bag for you. 

2. Size does matter. The size of the backpack is all important 

- work out if you’d prefer a bag that is wider and shorter 

or longer and thinner. Obviously a bag that isn’t absurdly 

huge is first prize, but think about the duration of your 

hikes and how much you would practically need to take 

with you for a short day hike (snacks and water) versus a 

full-day hike (light lunch, water, additional clothes). Internal 

storage becomes a big component here, as it means the 

difference between having enough room or potentially 

having to take multiple bags. 

3. Padding. The key to a comfortable backpack is a balanced 

load. Too little padding will not protect your body from the 

strains of weight and can cause painful chafing. Similarly, 

too much padding will cause awkward and uncomfortable 

pressure against your body, which might lead to soreness 

… or you standing in a strange way to ease the pressure. A 

decent backpack should have padding on the back panel, 

shoulder straps and hip belt strap. 

Six hiking essentials ... 

1. Comfortable shoes and socks 

2. A hat which covers your face and the back of your neck 

3. Sunscreen - the higher SPF the better 

4. Water 

5. Snacks or a light lunch 

6. A Thule hiking backpack and accessories 


4 of the best hiking routes to try out in 

Mpumalanga 

Num-Num Hiking Trail 

This is a self-guided, multi-day hike that takes you through 

immeasurably diverse topography, from ancient grasslands and 

magnificent waterfalls to sandstone mazes and indigenous 

forests. This is the terrain of the Highland escarpment, and 

there is abundant bird and wildlife to see all along the way. 

There are a few steep bits requiring moderate fitness, and the 

36,5km hike can be completed over three, four or five days. 

From R220 per person, per day. 

Details: 082-950-2417/071-710-8835 

Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail 

Arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in the Lowveld, this 

trail runs through the third largest canyon in the world. A total 

of 60km long, it starts at God’s Window and ends at Bourke’s 

Luck. Along the way you will encounter magnificent views and 

a diverse range of fauna and flora. 

Details: 013-759-5373/013-759-5432 or reservations@mtpa.co.za 

Fanie Botha Hiking Trail 

Stretching along the Drakensberg escarpment, Fanie 

Botha incorporates several waterfalls such as Mac Mac and 

Lone Creek. One of the longer several-day hiking trails in 

Mpumalanga, there are three options - a two-day, three-day 

or five-day type. The hike can be strenuous, especially in the 

summer heat, and is best done during the cooler months of 

spring or autumn. R150 per person. 

Details: 013-754-2724 

Queen Rose Hiking Trail 

Nestled between Barberton and eManza (Badplaas) in the 

Nelshoogte Forest Reserve, you’ll find the Queen Rose Hiking 

Trail, a haven for nature and bird lovers. Meandering between 

the mountains of the eastern escarpment where the Queen 

and Montrose rivers meet, the 26km, two-day hike passes 

through timber plantations, indigenous forest, over mountain 

passes, and along the Queens River, incorporating river 

crossings, a suspension bridge, and natural pools. For a day 

hiker, it is R90 per person. One-night stayover costs R320 per 

person and a two-night stayover is R440 per person. 

Details: 072-604-960. 

4of the best backpack 

collections from which to choose 

The Thule AllTrail collection is a must for a day hike, 

as it gives you a singular pack for all your hiking needs. 

An adjustable torso fit is built into the back panel and 

combined with breathable shoulder straps, hipbelt 

padding and back panel to make even the toughest 

day hike extra comfortable - and allow you to stay cool. 

All your gear is within reach thanks to the easy access 

side zippers and front shove-it pocket. The dedicated 

hydration sleeve frees up space for other essentials 

like keys and snacks. There’s even an integrated rain 

cover. This versatile all-rounder is available in men and 

women specific models and comes in various sizes for 

you to choose what works best for you. 

For something more lightweight, look at the Thule 

Stir range. A simple, clean design offers quick 

access via the top zippered mesh pocket and über 

organization for all your items. If you want it even 

more streamlined, simply remove the sternum strap 

and hip belt. Stash water bottles and other essentials 

in the expandable side pockets. With a weather 

resistant coated nylon fabric and the breathable 

backpanel and shoulder straps to keep you cool, it is 

a bag that will see you through all seasons of outdoor 

adventures. Again, different sizes and men and women 

specific models. 

For the ultimate in comfort, opt for the Thule 

Capstone collection. The tensioned mesh back 

panel provides unparalleled breathability, keeping 

you cool on your trail, while the high-visibility rain 

cover keeps your gear dry during storms. There’s 

even a customizable hipbelt that is compatible 

with interchangeable VersaClick accessories (sold 

separately). There are a host of pockets – on the top 

and the side – to keep all your items for the day, no 

matter how many family members you are keeping 

things for. You can even lash gear to the front of the 

pack using the durable button hole webbing. 

If you’re hiking with young kids the Thule Sapling 

(and Sapling Elite) is an absolute lifesaver. This child 

carrier is safe and comfy, plus quick and easy to adjust 

to fit both parents, so you can take turns carrying. 

On-the-go adjustments are made even easier, as 

you can load your child from the top or the side of 

the carrier. The deployable sunshade means that 

your precious cargo is protected from the harsh sun. 

Store water, nappies, clothes and other bigger items 

in the zippered compartment and use the extra 

roomy zippered mesh pockets for emergency items 

like snacks, toys and keys. The ergonomic seat is 

height adjustable - the Elite model even comes with 

removable stirrups for your little one to rest their feet 

on and a viewing mirror – and a breathable padded 

backpack and support at critical contact points for 

you. All this means a cool and comfortable trail for 

everyone. Details: Available online from thule.com 


Since the initiative started, TRAC 

has reached more than 10 000 

pupils across the route 

In a country where road accidents 

and fatalities are a dime a dozen, 

teaching children to respect and 

observe road safety protocols is 

critical. Today’s young ones are 

tomorrow’s adults, and TRAC believes 

education is the basis of creating a 

culture of responsible, respectable 

and courteous road users. 

With this in mind, we, as the 

concessionaire of the N4 Toll Route, 

launched the TRAC School Road 

Safety project in 2014, and continue 

to present it annually at both urban 

and rural schools along our route. The 

initiative is aimed at children aged 

four to nine and focuses on basic 

road safety. It is led by TRAC’s mascot, 

which has become an icon along the 

570-kilometre transborder road. 

During the project’s pilot phase, only 

passenger safety was highlighted. 

However, when the initiative gained 

momentum, pedestrian safety 

became another focus point. The 

latter was decided after statistics 

from Arrive Alive indicated that 

approximately 40% of road deaths in 

South Africa are pedestrians. 

Both the passenger and pedestrian 

road safety shows feature a 30-minute 

educational performance starring 

Sipho and his “friends”. Through 

acting, singing and child-friendly road 

safety signs they are taught easy-toremember, 

basic road rules. 

Since the initiative started, TRAC has 

reached more than 10 000 pupils 

across the route. The project has 

become such a success, that these 

days we are often requested by 

schools to come present it to their 

learners as part of their road safety 

curriculum. 

Details 

Solange Soares on 013-755-3316 

(switchboard), 076-021-2524 (cell) or 

sssoares@tracn4.co.za 


Children 

love TRAC’s 

road safety 

message 


George Nel and Petrus Mdhluli 

R ome 

wasn’t built in a day... or alone 


It’s a cold and misty morning when 

we arrive on site at The Rest Nature 

Estate in Mbombela to have a quick 

preview of Nel Developments’ newest 

residential property project. For the 

builders on site, the cool Lowveld 

morning comes as a welcome relief 

from the usually sweltering days they 

spend in the sun crafting 700sqm 

masterpieces. There are some of 

us who forget when we sit in our 

air conditioned offices that some 

industries are tougher than others. 

The owner and founder of Nel 

Developments, George Nel, builds 

with passion. He turns bricks, 

cement, roof tiles, wooden beams, 

cornices, skirtings, sand, water and 

hours of manpower into functional 

and welcoming works of art. Like 

monuments of his dedication to 

quality work and homes to be proud 

of, his completed structures can 

be seen all over Mbombela. When 

meeting this unassuming father of two 

you immediately realise that his love 

of building homes is not only a means 

to earn an income, it is also a way to 

provide job security for his staff and to 

support local businesses. 

George arrived in Mbombela in 

2002 and started building residential 

properties in 2006. He began by 

building spec homes from building 

packages to later establishing 

residential properties as completely 

managed projects. George and his 

team of loyal staff, whom he has been 

working with since 2006, share an 

apprecation for construction. They also 

share a love of their main supplier and 

George is grateful for his partnership 

with BUCO Nelspruit. 

“You actually can’t do any of this 

without their support and service,” 

he says as he affectionately taps 

Craig Handley, BUCO’s internal sales 

representative, on the shoulder. 

A quiet fellow with a permanent smile, 

Craig looks after the Nel Developments 

account. He doesn’t talk much, but you 

know that George relies heavily on his 

“just a phone call away” approach to 

service delivery. 

“We don’t often get a chance to thank 

BUCO for their excellent service. It is a 

company that cares and from Pottie 

at the helm, to Wayne at deliveries, no 

one is ever too busy to listen,” George 

says regarding the communication needed between client and supplier, to be 

able to churn out only the best. He has much of which to be proud. His work 

is completed to perfection and often within constrained time frames. Clients 

can call on George at any time if they have an issue with his craftsmanship. He 

will always be there to make sure that they and every resident of the property 

thereafter, live in a home that is safe, neat and comfortable. 

It comes as no surprise that Nel Developments and BUCO have a special bond. 

Both have the same ethos and share a vision of perfection, passion and product 

satisfaction. Each one provides essential pieces to the puzzle. In the end, like 

George says, it cannot be done alone. 

Nel Developments and BUCO Nelspruit build together. 

Craig Handley, George Nel and Franciska Oosthuizen 

November Get It Lowveld 43

It’s time to 

BUY LOCAL! 

Now more than ever we need to shift our buying power to businesses in the Lowveld. 

Covid-19, and its subsequent impact, has had a devastating effect on the economy and local 

businesses in the region have felt the pinch. In light of this, Buy Local Lowveld was launched six 

months ago, aiming to stimulate and promote our local economy by encouraging people to 

support home-grown businesses, owned and run by Lowvelders. 

How can you get involved? 

1) Register your business: 

Register and become a part of our database. Registration 

is FREE and takes 30 seconds to complete. Scan this 

barcode and complete the quick online form. 

2) Get your business branded: 

Brand it with the Buy Local Lowveld logo and become 

part of the movement that recognises 

locally owned businesses in the area. Through this 

branding you are showcasing yourself as a proud 

Lowveld business that commits to quality products and 

services at a fair price, with honesty and values that your 

customers can trust. Scan this barcode to find out what 

the branding options are. 

Meet Janine Venter! 

Our coordinator and Brand 

Ambassador for Buy Local Lowveld. 

Get in touch with Janine at: 

info@buylocallowveld.co.za. 

3) Join our Business Boost event: 

Buy Local Lowveld presents Business Boost! Join us 

on November 20 as we chat all things local with 

prominent business leaders in the Lowveld. Do not 

miss this opportunity to get in touch with other 

businesses and to show your support for our local 

economy. Scan this barcode to receive more 

information about our upcoming event. 

Some of our proud Buy Local members 


More about Buy Local Lowveld 

OUR MISSION 

WHY 

We stand for excellence and aim to spread 

the spirit of ubuntu within our community. We 

believe that Buy Local Lowveld will in the long 

term encourage and grow a vibrant and inclusive 

small- and medium-size business sector that will 

allow our region to flourish. 

We are a non-profit initiative passionate about 

creating a sustainable, locally owned business 

community, with the knowledge that money 

spent on local goods and services will: 

• Keep the money in the Lowveld 

• Grow existing businesses 

• Identify new business opportunities 

• Create job opportunities 

• Support our surrounding community. 

Proud supporters of 

Radio Laeveld Wallet 

Download and install the Radio Laeveld 

Beursie App for free and you’ll be able 

to shop at a wide variety of participating 

stores in the Lowveld and nationally. 

By using the Radio Laeveld Wallet on 

your phone, this gives you access to 

any of the special deals or coupons 

and discounts offered by our partners, 

and instantly receive CashBack on your 

purchases. Click on the QR code or go 

to radiolaeveld.co.za for more info. 

I Love Local Market at Crossing 

Upcoming dates: 

• Nov 14 

• Dec 12 

• Feb 13 

Farmer’s Market at Sonpark 

Upcoming dates: 

• Nov 6 & 7 

• Dec 4 & 5 

Thank you! 

A big thank you to Radio Laeveld for 

partnering with Buy Local Lowveld and 

providing us with a fantastic platform to show 

support for local businesses! Each week we 

nominates two Businesses of the Week that 

get an opportunity to promote their business 

live on air. In the past six months Buy Local 

has successfully nominated and hosted over 

40 businesses which have benefited from 

this amazing campaign. Thank you, Radio 

Laeveld! To get your business nominated, 

get registered. Once your business is on the 

database you automatically get added to the 

list to be identified for this great opportunity. 

The multiplier effect 

When we spend our money at a locally owned 

business we cause a Multuplier Effect. 

What is it? 

Imagine an amount of R1 000 entering our local 

economy which is then spent on other local 

goods and services. Say each of these local 

vendors go out and re-spend that money on 

more local goods and services. Now, envision 

this cycle happening several times over before 

this money is finally spent on goods or services 

from outside our region. In this case, the R1 000 

could easily end up producing several times 

its value in goods and services by increasing 

revenue and income opportunities for our local 

businesses! 

November Get It Lowveld 43

GIDE1146NH

this Summer! 

GET IT DIRECTORY 

MYS1146NH 

FB1146R


DIRK1146R 

• Speech Therapy • Feeding Therapy 

STEPMED CENTRE 

GINCO1146R 

LFW1146R 

ZONA1146R 

RM-THEA1146NH


live in style 

1146NN 

RON1146R 

WATC1146NM

Spoil 

November 

Summer in a glass 

High up above the picturesque Gamka River Valley 

near Calitzdorp, you’ll find the De Krans Wine Cellar... 

a farm with history dating way back to 1890. With the 

first grapes being planted mainly for the production of 

raisins and some sweet wine, De Krans quickly became 

well-known for quality ports and Muscat sweet wines, 

as well as dry table wines. The vineyards lie between the 

peaks of the impressive Outeniqua Mountains, planted 

in rocky granite soils on four wire Perold trellis more 

than 600m above sea level. And the wines are among 

some of our favourites. This month we’re drinking the 

wonderful Garden Route Sauvignon Blanc 2019. 

This wine, with its clear, crisp translucent colour, has a 

lovely bouquet of beautiful fresh green pepper, cut grass 

and fynbos, with a little passion fruit and guava fruit 

salad. You’ll taste fresh tropical fruits and cut grass and 

a hint of green pepper. It’s really excellent with something 

like fresh cob or stumpnose, served with a lime dressing, but 

also works well with any pâté or salads... so perfect for these 

long warm summer days. R75 from dekrans.co.za. We’ve 

got a case to give away... to stand in line to win, simply 

like our Facebook or Instagram page (Get It National 

Magazines), tag a white wine-loving friend in the 

comments section and you could be one of our winners. 

Entries close November 25.

Lowveld - NOV 2020

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