July 23 Ballito Umhlanga

BALLITO • Umdloti • UMHLANGA 

BACK IN THE WATER 

Umdloti surfer Oly Brand 

rediscovers her passion 

THINGS TO DO 

WITH THE KIDS 

5THIS HOLIDAY 

WIN! 

A hamper from 

Wedgewood 

worth R4500 

action-packed 

ballito pro 

SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD 

JULY 2023

GET IT 

Editorial 

Phone 032 946 0276 

Email leah@getitnc.co.za 

Ballito Business Centre • Ballito Drive 

Ballito • KwaZulu-Natal 

Like and Follow us 

Get It Magazine Ballito.Umdloti.Umhlanga 

@GetItMagNC 

@getitmagnc 

@GetItMagNC 

www.getitmagazine.co.za/ballito-umhlanga/ 

Editor Leah Shone 

leah@getitnc.co.za 

Layout and Design 

Jessmica Depalal 

Triveshni Poonsamy 

ads@northcoastcourier.co.za 

Advertising 

Natalie Bertram 

Natalie@getitnc.co.za | 082 434 3442 

Janine Nyce 

janine@getitnc.co.za | 072 709 6673 

Online Content Co-ordinator 

& Sales Support 

Lisa Smith | lisa@getitnc.co.za 

GET IT NATIONAL 

National Group Editor and Sales 

Kym Argo 

082 785 9230 | kyma@caxton.co.za 

Distribution 

12 000 copies monthly 

Get It Ballito • Umhlanga is distributed 

free of charge in Ballito, Salt Rock, Umhlali, 

Umdloti, Umhlanga Rocks, Umhlanga 

Ridge and Gateway 

contents 

Wish List 

6 All the best Barbie-inspired goodies . . . 

people 

12 Surfing champ Oly Brand shares her story of health and healing 

14 Meet Keira King, an Umhlanga teen with a passion for the ocean 

food 

22 The inspiration behind Gather, a beautiful new recipe book 

by St Anne’s old girls 

property 

28 Discover a striking home in the Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate 

35 Local Potter Vusi Bernard talks about his passion for sculpting 

38 Ballito artist Ali Cockburn shares her tips for choosing art 

42 Explore a unique farm house with a tropical feel 

travel 

47 Plan your next getaway in the berg, bush or beach 

Published by The North Coast Courier 

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 Get it Ballito 

branch within 10 days or they will be forfeited. 

Prize winners’ names are published on our 

Facebook page monthly. 

Cover details: 

Oly Brand 

Shot by: Chris Allan Photo, 083 441 3144, 

www.chrisallanphoto.co.za 

11965 copies distributed (January - March 2023) 

july 2023 

Photograph: Chris Allan Photo 

22 

July 2023 Get It Ballito • Umdloti • Umhlanga 01

16 

YEARS 

R 15 999 000 

SIMBITHI ECO ESTATE | 

PRIVATE, TRANQUIL HOME WITH EXQUISITE VIEWS 

Opulence and attention to detail in this furnished family home. Generously 

proportioned bedrooms, all en-suite and leading onto a patio with exquisite garden 

views, tastefully appointed, upmarket and easy living with a touch of class. 

4 5.5 2 

700m 2 

SALT ROCK | READY FOR YOUR FAMILY TO CHERISH 

Newly renovated family home in close proximity to the beach. Contemporary 

lines, attractive living spaces and a self contained flatlet make this a worthwhile 

purchase for the discerning family. 

3 2 2 

330m 2 

DUal MANDATE 

R 4 600 000 

eXclUsiVe MANDATE 

R 4 950 000 

SEAWARD ESTATE | CLOSE TO IT ALL 

A pet and child friendly environment. Well configured and tastefully planned to 

accommodate expansive living and entertainment spaces. Located at the end 

of a cul-de-sac thus providing privacy and positioning with no passing traffic 

and loads of space. 

4 2.5 2 

305m 2 

Invest. Intelligently. 

02 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga February 2022 

We are 

recruiting 

032 946 1439 / 082 551 2607 

073 106 6010 - Rental Specialist 

www.fionacrago.co.za

A hot date! 

Surfing, cars, décor . . . and all the holiday fun this July! 

1We can’t wait for all the surfing, skating 

and lifestyle fun at this year’s Ballito Pro 

presented by O’Neill, taking place at Willard 

Beach from 27 June to 9 July. Soak up the 

winter sunshine while watching some of 

the world’s top surfers strut their stuff and 

enjoy some retail therapy at the market 

and food court in the parking lot. There is 

loads more on offer, too! Details: 

www.theballitopro.com 

2 

There is always so much to see, do (and eat) at the ECR House and Garden 

Show, but if you’re in the property market (or in the market for property) 

then a visit to Rainmaker Marketing’s Property Pavilion is a must. The 

‘thought-leadership arena’ is aimed at connecting buyers, investors, property 

developers, architects, landscapers and industry experts - and is the ideal spot to 

find out everything you need to know about the latest trends and insights in the 

world of property. The ECR House and Garden Show runs from 1 to 9 July at the 

Durban Exhibition Centre. Details: www.housegardenshow.co.za, 

@housegardenshow 

15 

If you like cars and you 

like music, then make sure 

you don’t miss out on 

the Gas Motorshow taking place 

at Suncoast Casino on 15 and 16 

July. With some of the most rare and 

unique vehicles on the continent on 

display, as well as top international 

acts and guest performers, this is a 

not-to-be-missed event. The show 

includes: FMX freestyle motorcross, 

Gymkhana spinning, stunt show by 

DiDi Bizzarrro, sound-off, VR race 

simulators, classics and vintage 

exhibitions, stance exhibitions, drag 

exhibitions, JDM exhibitions, bikes, 

live music, gaming tournaments and 

loads more! Tickets are between 

R150 and R900 (you can go for one 

day or the whole weekend) and are 

available at www.webtickets.co.za 

July 2023 Get It • Ballito • Umdloti • Umhlanga 03

Promotion 

WINTER WARMERS 

Winter is upon us, and even on the North Coast, we’re feeling the chill. But the cooler weather 

is the perfect excuse to get cosy and enjoy a glass of something delicious. Pranesh Ramowthar, 

Liquor Specialist at TOPS Lifestyle, shares his round-up of the best winter warmers. Whether you’re 

a whisky connoisseur or simply love a good red, this fine selection will keep you toasty... 

Bulls Eye Cabernet Sauvignon 

The Post House Bulls Eye Cabernet 

Sauvignon was made with the utmost 

attention and detail to deliver an 

extremely high quality end product. 

The cellar only produces a small 

quantity of wine and assumes a handson 

and conscientious approach at each 

step. This wine is a big wine with a nose 

of raspberry, mint, cigar box, chocolate 

and gamy meat. The palate is firm and 

oaky with rounded ripe fruit and tannins 

which gives length to the finish. It has 

maturation potential for 8-10 years. 

El Mayor Añejo Tequila 

For over four generations, the González 

family have been hard at work 

perfecting the art and craft of growing 

agave and distilling tequila. To this 

day, they instil age-old processes and 

values handed down from generation 

to generation. Designed for slow, 

contemplative sipping, their 100% Blue 

Agave Añejo tequila is aged in white 

oak barrels for 18 to 36 months to provide a sophisticatedly 

smooth product. El Mayor is made from only the highest quality 

Weber Blue Agave plants, sweet succulents that thrive in the 

rocky lowlands of Jalisco, Mexico. At about 7,500 feet above 

sea level, its mineral-rich sandy soil produces the juiciest plants, 

giving you a taste as warm as Jalisco. Its golden colour and 

caramel aroma makes way for a smooth entry that leads to a soft, 

medium-to-full bodied palate with caramel, grilled tropical fruits 

and brown spices. Excellent paired with lamb or rabbit. 

Johnnie Walker Swing 

Created during the golden age of travel in 1932 

by John Walker’s grandson, Sir Alexander Walker II, 

who, as a voyager himself, named it after the rocking 

motion the unique decanter-like bottle makes when 

rocked back and forth, comparable to transatlantic 

voyages when stormy weather rocked the seas. 

The Swing is a luxurious blend of 35 whiskies with 

a high proportion of Speyside malts that deliver a 

sophisticated, smooth and rich finish.

Book club 

A whole lot of fun at book club this month 

Catherine Alliott writes the best weekend reads. Easy but so 

enjoyable. In The Pink House, Hugh’s parents, owners of said 

house, have divorced, and neither wants to stay in the family 

home. So it’s up to Hugh and his wife, Emma, to move in, and 

take over all that comes with it, including Hugh’s sister who 

lives in the garden cottage, and a mother-in-law from hell. Art 

exhibitions in the barn, their son’s glorious wedding, estranged 

family arriving unexpectedly .... all goes along swimmingly until 

Emma runs into Rory ... the one that got away! A few twists to 

keep things exciting ... such a great read. Michael Joseph 

After the mysterious death of her sister, Tess is grief-stricken, 

lonely ... and broke. She’s forced to rent out Rosie’s old room 

to pay the bills. With strangers in her home, Tess discovers a 

distraction: their possessions. Tempted into the room while 

they’re out, she goes through her guests’ things, imagining the 

stories they hold. When handsome and inscrutable Arran takes 

the room, Tess finds his diary. The entries are about an unnamed 

woman. Crush or obsession? Slowly, his writing takes a darker 

tone, and Tess can’t stop reading. But in her compulsion to 

uncover the truth, there’s something Tess fails to notice. 

The Guest Room by Tasha Sylva is a taut, clever read. Welbeck 

Add some sparkle to your 

book club with Perdeberg’s 

Lighthearted Sparkling Rosé. 

If you’re the glass half full 

(although, in this case, we’d 

prefer it poured to the brim, 

please) type of person ... who 

finds joy in the simplest of 

experiences ... take note of 

dewdrops, wildflowers and 

butterfly packaging! You’re 

going to love Perdeberg 

Cellar’s Lighthearted range 

of lower in alcohol wines, 

which now includes 

this lively Lighthearted 

Sparkling Rosé. It’s low 

in alcohol, so perfect for 

the health-conscious 

wine enthusiasts, 

looking to enjoy the 

odd glass of bubbly 

(or two). Brimming 

with aromas of fresh 

cherries, candy 

floss, berries and 

with hints of sweet 

watermelon, it’s 

lovely on its own 

when celebrating 

with friends, with 

a sweet and sour 

pork dish or as an 

accompaniment 

to a berry-infused 

dessert. Fun, floral 

and refreshing. 

R100 a bottle from 

perdeberg.co.za, 

or at your local wine 

store. 

Books available from Exclusive Books in store or online at exclusivebooks.co.za 


Wish list 

We’ve been waiting (and waiting) for Barbie to launch 

... and July’s the month. So a celebration of all that’s cool 

and kitsch and just such damn fun! 

A take-anywhere sequin basket ... 

and although it’s lovely as is, you can also 

choose to have your initials included on the 

bag. R1690 from elizabethsummer.com 

Pom pom key ring, 

R180, and loads of 

look-at-me earrings, 

from R1200, from 

elizabethsummer.com 

Tree Hut Beauty – the USA brand known for its beautifully 

scented, filled-with-goodness, feel-good body care range 

- is here! Finally, the range that will (trust us) elevate your 

body care routine to a self-care ritual, has just launched 

in SA. All fab ingredients - think Shea Butter, Avocado 

Oil, Macadamia Seed Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Sweet 

Almond Oil, Hemp Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, Fruit Extracts, 

and Vitamin C, as well as amazing scents - coconut lime, 

Moroccan rose, pineapple, watermelon, peach sorbet and 

cotton candy, it’s a range of want-them-all products. Try 

the exceptional Shea Sugar Scrub (a best seller for good 

reason), ultra-nourishing Whipped Body Butters (which 

have an airy, glide-on formula), deeply relaxing Bath Soaks, 

Bare Moisturizing Shave Oils (say goodbye to stubble, 

nicks and bumps, and say hello to beautifully smooth skin) 

and Sugar Lips (with real sugar and Shea Butter in a scrub 

that’s so natural you can simply lick your lips and enjoy the 

result). Really affordable – from R275 - and Barbie would 

LOVE! Shop on www.medhealthsup.com 

06 Get It • Ballito • Umdloti • Umhlanga July 2023

The excitement - and the hype - is completely 

over the top. Launching worldwide this month, 

Barbie is hitting the big screens in shocking 

pink style. It’s the adult version ... with Margot 

Robbie and Ryan Gosling (swoon, swoon for 

both) playing Barbie and Ken, who’re having the 

time of their lives in the colorful and seemingly 

perfect world of Barbie Land. But when they get a 

chance to go to the real world, they discover the 

joys and perils of living among humans. Fantasy, 

comedy, and massive amounts of fun. Don’t miss 

it ... and whatever you do, dress the part! 

From the office to the dance 

floor, this hot pink blazer 

dress with a lapel collar 

and long pleated sleeves 

has a wrap-style crossover 

fastening at the front 

with ties in the same 

fabric. Heels, lipstick and 

you’re good to go. R1459 

from zara.com 

For those with the 

tiniest fluffy white 

dogs who fit into 

their handbags ... 

you’ve got to have 

this pale pink pooch 

tag, which you can 

have customised 

with your dog’s 

name. R145 

from perfectly 

customizeddaily.com 

Compiled by: Kym Argo 


Sundowners at The Bay 

What better way to spend an afternoon, than 

sipping sundowners on one of the most pristine 

beaches on the North Coast? This is exactly what 

guests who attended Seaton’s Estate’s sunset 

beach party got to do on Christmas Bay beach 

recently, as they joined the Collin’s Residential 

team in celebrating the successful transfer of 

Seaton The Bay. 

Corne Vanwijk, Megan Perkins, 

Shannon Berriman and Isabelle Berriman 

Chantelle Wood and Bianca Warren 

Neel Chetty, Nerosh Chetty, Ria Chetty and Nick Chetty 

Tyler Smith and Ant Carr 

Brett Berriman, Benjamin Rule and Patrick Lambie

Time to 

flourish 

Thobekile Honono, Tanya Davis, 

Cindy Searle and Temogo Zondi 

Passion, vision and hard work 

resulted in the realisation of a dream 

for the founders of Move Africa when 

they officially launched Flourish 

(a menstrual cup sold directly to the 

public with the aim of eradicating 

‘period poverty’ in South Africa) at The 

Pencil Club in Umhlanga, recently. 

Joseph and Lesego Mpyana 

Andy Papayya and Tash Barnard 

Nqobile Maphumulo 

and Joanne Phillip 

Mawanda Maphumulo, Gabby 

Larsson and Travis Strydom

Anna Nel, Tanya Nel 

and Wilma Steyn 

Milan Dhaniram, Sarisha Haripershad, Dr Fezeka Wulana, 

Dr Niresha Mudaly, Nirasha Dhaniram, Dr Marijke Linde, 

Dr Harisha Karpath and Dr Landiwe Mbata 

Funds for hope 

So much fun was had at the Imbalito Hope Centre for Autism and Special 

Needs’s fifth annual Ballito Mother’s Day high tea last month! All monies 

raised from this fabulous event will be used for a brand new sensory room at 

the centre. 

Kalai Moodley and 

Sasha Lee Lawrence 

Wilderness 

calls 

Cara McDaniel and Lesley Harris 

Sarie Garzanich 

xxxxxxx Keziah Searle and Justine Douglas 

Tiara Govender and 

Candice-Lee Charles 

Nokwanda Malima 

Owners of the popular Rain Farm Game & 

Lodge, Cara and Chris McDaniel were thrilled 

to host media and guests at the launch of their 

brand new offering, Yembeni Bush Lodge. 

Adventure meets luxury at this stunning new 

bush gem, located just 20 minutes inland from 

Ballito. 


Paul Barns, Shane Douglas, Vincent 

Engelbrecht and Darren Bennet 

Exciting new 

venture 

Sipping cocktails while overlooking the ocean at a beautiful 

location is always an afternoon well spent! We got 

to do just that at the estate agent launch of the exciting 

new Palm Ridge development, situated inside Palm Lakes 

2 (located across the road from the current Palm Lakes 

development, allowing residents access to all the current 

Palm Lakes facilities). The event was hosted by Club Real 

Estate, PME Attorneys and Dream Bonds. 

Sam Govender and Mekash Raja 

Jackie Futter, Richard Jackson and Lynette Nason 

Kaylan Geekie, Sabrina Erico, 

Penelope Williams and JP Pienaar

Finding her way back 

Former SA women’s surfing champion Olivia Brand was recently named Ballito 

Surfer of the Year. The young Umdloti teacher has overcome major health setbacks 

caused by Long Covid and is now hoping to nab a spot at 

The Ballito Pro again this year. 

Text: Leah Shone Photographs: Chris Allan Photo 

You would never say, watching the bubbly, smiling, 

25-year-old blonde surfer paddle out, that Oly spent 

more than a year almost completely bedridden, fighting 

the debilitating effects of Long Covid. 

Her strong will, incredible faith and sheer passion for 

surfing are what got Oly back into the water, and now 

she has her heart set on proving she can win the SA 

championships once more. 

Born in the small town of Magaliesburg, Oly spent the 

first few years of her life on a dairy farm, before moving 

to Johannesburg with her family. When she was 11 years 

old, her hotelier father sold his hotels and decided to 

take the family on an around-the-world sailing trip. 

“He bought a 58ft catamaran and we sailed around 

the world, starting in the Galapagos and ending 

in Singapore two years later. It was an incredible 

experience,” says Oly, “although I do wish we'd gone 

when I was a bit older because I don't think I truly 

understood what an amazing opportunity it was at the 

time.” 

Oly remembers the trip fondly, regaling us with stories 

of being attacked by pirates in the Caribbean (and 

sleeping through the whole ordeal) and being chased 

by a deadly barracuda while snorkelling in Bora Bora. 

Returning to real life after the trip ended was an 

extremely difficult adjustment, she says. 

“We knew we couldn't go back to Johannesburg 

because we needed to live close to the ocean, so we 

settled in Umdloti. It was only then that I began surfing. 

I fell in love with it, and wanted to spend every moment 

in the water.” 

With five generations of women in her family having 

attended St Anne’s College, Oly tried boarding school 

for a year, but says it didn't suit her. “I persuaded my 

parents to let me go to Crawford North Coast where I 

was given a scholarship for surfing.” 

But with various learning difficulties and spending more 

time competing and travelling for surfing, Oly struggled 

with academics and, having done home schooling 

during most of her younger years, she decided in Grade 

10 to complete the last two years of school the same 

way. 

Her first big surfing achievement was finishing third in 

SA champs in the under 15 category. “That was when 

the competitive bug bit,” she says. Oly won a variety of 

smaller comps, but it wasn't until after school that she 

began to stand out in bigger contests (like winning the 

SA women's open championships in 2019). 

Then, towards the end of 2020, disaster struck. “My mom 

got Covid and nearly died and then I got really ill, too. 

Both of us were treated by nurses at home. I had oxygen 

and a drip, and ended up being completely bedridden 

for months on end.” 

Diagnosed with Long Covid, Oly suffered from severe 

blood clotting, lung and heart damage, debilitating 

vertigo and nausea, brain fog, speech impediments and 

recurring blackouts. 

She had to undergo hyperbaric chamber therapy and 

was put on various medications as part of a Long Covid 

medical trial. 

By the beginning of 2022, Oly's mental health was 

taking severe strain. Not only was she unable to surf, 

but the illness was affecting her ability to do her job as a 

special needs teacher as well. 

“Then something remarkable happened,” she says. “It 

was New Year's Eve and I had another bad blackout. 

I was devastated. I spent the entire evening on my 

knees praying. The next day I felt a shift in my health 

and decided to go for a surf – even though that was a 

dangerous thing for me to do. My parents are strong 

believers as well, and they encouraged me to go for it.” 

Oly was thrilled to find that she could surf once more 


I am thrilled to be able to 

surf again. The progress has 

been slow, but I can feel myself 

getting stronger every day. 

and, since then, says she has started to feel herself 

returning to her old self again. “I am thrilled to be able 

to surf again. The progress has been slow, but I can 

feel myself getting stronger and healthier every day. I 

haven't had a single blackout since that New Year's Eve.” 

This year, Oly competed in the iLembe championships 

and then claimed third place in the SA women's 

champs. “That contest was the first time since having 

Covid that I felt like I was really surfing to my true 

potential again,” she says, smiling broadly. 

Asked what her ultimate surfing dream is, Oly says she 

would love to travel the world making surf clips – and 

get paid to do what she loves! “One day though, I'd 

like to move somewhere really beautiful and remote, 

perhaps Indonesia, where I can teach special needs kids 

and just surf for fun.” 

Details: @olybrand 


Ocean warrior 

While many people are vocal about saving the 

environment and protecting the ocean, very few 

ever take action. Sixteen-year-old Umhlanga 

resident Keira King, however, is one of those few. 

Text: Leah Shone 

nsatisfied with simply being a 'keyboard warrior', 

and fuelled by a strong desire to physically do 

something, Keira is making waves (and swimming 

in them) to garner awareness of our ocean and 

raise funds for the creatures that call it home. 

Last year, the young lifesaver swam the notorious Robben 

Island crossing (a 7.5km swim from Robben Island to 

Blouberg beach in 10°C water), managing to raise R25000 for 

the Two Oceans Aquarium turtle rehabilitation programme. 

After that incredible feat, Keira was invited to represent 

the youth at an ocean literacy conference in Cape Town 

and is now on the youth group for Marine Protected 

Areas in SA, as well as the marine science facility group at 

Stellenbosh University. 

But raising funds and awareness by doing adventurous 

things is what really gets her heart going. 

And now, she's is at it again. In August, Keira will embark on 

a daunting 40km paddle from Ballito to Ushaka on a prone 

Mali board, to raise funds for Sanccob (who rescue and 

rehabilitate African penguins). 

Her goal is to raise R50 000 by the end of the year and Keira 

has already raised more than R14 500, as well as having 

secured a sponsor for her board. 

It's no surprise that Keira has a heart for the ocean. Her 

father is a former professional surfer and her grandfather 

a passionate underwater photographer. Keira says she has 

loved the ocean for as long as she can remember. 

“I love snorkelling with my grandad and he teaches me all 

the different scientific names. We can spend hours talking 

about them, which usually bores the rest of the family,” she 

laughs. 

Having participated in nippers and lifesaving since she was 


eight years old, Keira is also a competitive junior lifesaver 

with the Pirate Lifesaving Club in Durban. 

Wanting to raise awareness about plastic pollution in our 

oceans, Keira opened an Instagram account when she 

was in Grade 9. “I was basically reposting and sharing stuff 

on social media, which was great, but it just didn't feel 

like enough. I wanted to actually do something to make a 

difference.” 

After she decided to focus on the turtle rehabilitation 

project, Keira's mom, Candice, helped her open a Quicket 

account for her fundraising and they booked the Robben 

Island swim. 

During her six months of training (both in the pool and 

the ocean), Keira did various fundraising drives, including a 

'funky socks' day at her school. “I got so many donations and 

people were so supportive,” she says. 

When it was time to head to Cape Town for her big swim, 

Keira was nervous, but tried not to overthink it. She was one 

of 12 swimmers attempting the challenge on the day and, 

after being dropped off in the ocean near Robben Island by 

a small boat, the group first had to swim to the island before 

starting their swim back to Blouberg. It took her two hours 

and twelve minutes to finish and her emotional and proud 

mom was waiting for her on the beach on the other side. 

“I got to meet and feed the turtles at the aquarium, 

including Bob the turtle who was recently released in KZN 

after nine years in rehabilitation. After that, I thought, what's 

next? I didn't want it to end,” she says, smiling. 

Keira has decided to do her paddle in support of the African 

penguin rehab project because they are an 'indicator species', 

which means they show us what state our ocean is in. 

“If you want people to pay attention you need to do 

something bold and adventurous. I'm so thrilled to have a 

great sponsor in the form of Hired Gun Coffee, who feel that 

their brand aligns with what I'm doing,” she says. “They are 

all about getting people to do crazy, cool and adventurous 

things with a cause attached to them.” 

There are various ways to support Keira. You can donate 

money, buy a raffle ticket for R250 (and stand to win a 

beautiful Lush hamper), or you can simply show your 

support by being on the beach or getting into the water 

with her on 12 August. 

Details: @battle_for_blue, @hiredguncoffee, https://www. 

givengain.com/ap/keira-king-raising-funds-for-sanccob/ 

Create a moment of happiness! 

Ballito 

GIFTING & HAMPER 

EMPORIUM 

Open Mon-Sun 8am to 5pm 

Including public holidays 

Announcing the NEW Wedgewood Gifting & 

Hamper Emporium at Ballito Lifestyle Centre. 

Wedgewood Emporiums are uniquely 

created to showcase a wonderful world of 

handcrafted confectionery and gifting, 

made locally and sustainably on the 

Wedgwood Farm in the KZN Midlands. 

Experience a world-first nougat ice-cream 

and more confectionery innovations. Visit 

today to become part of the Wedgewood 

story… 

Email: kzn2@wedgewoodnougat.co.za Website: www.wedgewoodnougat.co.za Tel: 0877113016

PROMOTION 

Warm Winter Must-haves 

As the winter sun continues to shine on the North Coast, we still have some chilly days to contend with. 

The selection of stores at Lifestyle Centre have a range of winter essentials that will keep you warm, 

stylish and entertained throughout the cooler months. Whether you’re a cooking or coffee enthusiast, 

a foodie or fond of a family night in, bundle up and embrace the season with the finest winter finds... 

The Shirls Knitted Blanket is a white cotton knitted 

blanket, with a beautiful geometric pattern. 

A generous 130 x 170cm, it is sure to keep you 

cosy and warm. R1 100 from Love Home, the 

newest addition to The Studios. Visit them for 

bespoke home décor sourced from around 

Africa and Europe. 

This family edition of the ever-popular trivia game, Trivial 

Pursuit, features fresh questions and a quick pace, including a 

new ‘Showdown Challenge’ which amps up the gameplay. This 

quick-play trivia game, for ages 8 and up, 

includes 400 cards with 2,400 questions 

on 2 separate decks of cards for the 

adults and the kids. Winter school 

holiday fun for the whole family 

at R1299.99 from 

Toyzone. 

www.ballitolifestylecentre.co.za 

Science of Coffee is founded by climate and plant scientists 

working throughout the tropics to help farmers improve their 

quality and yield, bringing you some of the rarest coffees in the 

world. As the official coffee of the Ballito Pro 2023, you can get 

this speciality roasted coffee, sourced from farming partners 

in Africa, at the beach or the food court for the duration of the 

competition, or throughout the year from Science of Coffee, 

Yoli’s Bakery or La Sandwicheria at The Market.

45 on Eat Street is the warmest place to enjoy a night out. They have just 

launched their new, limited edition Chef’s Specialities menu that runs until 

the end of August and the Venison Pie comes highly recommended for a 

quintessential winter meal - a rustic and hearty venison pie with roasted 

marrow bone and minted mushy peas. R185 at 45 on Eat Street. 

There’s nothing better 

than curling up with an 

enthralling read on a 

cold winter’s day. The 

Bookbinder of Jericho is 

a story about knowledge 

- who creates it, who can 

access it, and what truths 

get lost in the process. 

Available now from 

Bargain Books at R339. 

Heat or cool an 

Aroma Soothz 

Soothing 

Sportz to 

release the 

natural 

healing power 

and earthy 

fragrance of 

pure essential 

oils. Soothe 

and relieve 

muscular 

discomfort 

associated 

with sports 

aches and pains for backs, legs and 

joints, or simply enjoy the warmth of 

Soothing Sportz on a chilly winter’s day 

or night. The Soothing Sportz wheatbag 

retails at R403 from Lifestyle Health. 

Winter is the perfect 

season to enjoy a 

good red wine and 

The Other Room at 

Alchemy is the perfect 

place to choose 

your tipple. Tanagra 

Heavenly Chaos 201 

is a lovely smooth 

Merlot, Cabernet 

Franc and Cabernet 

Sauvignon blend. 

It is natural yeast 

and whole berry 

fermented and has 

been matured for 14 

months in neutral 

oak, resulting in a 

soft, fruity and very 

‘quaffable’ red wine. 

R299 per bottle. 

The all- 

rounders from Zwilling, True 

Flow Cookware 

is made for everyday use and 

to make cooking 

even more fun. It impresses with 

high quality, energy-efficiency, even heat distribution, snug fit lid and 

practical pouring feature. Available in a set or individually, this cookware 

is dishwasher-safe and also compatible with induction cookers. Head on 

over to Cookin and get cookin’ this winter! 

WIN! 

a collection of products 

and vouchers from the stores 

featured on this page, to the 

value of over R5000. Follow 

Lifestyle Centre to enter: 

IG: @lifestylecentreballito 

FB: @ballitolifestylecentre 

T’s & C’s apply

SURF’S UP 

It’s that time of year when surfers and skaters 

descend on Ballito and the town buzzes with 

activity for two jam-packed weeks. 

Indonesia’s Rio Waida on his way to winning last year’s 

Ballito Pro pres. by O’Neill. Photo: Pierre Tostee/WSL. 


On the North Coast, we are spoilt with balmy winters, and 

perfect beach weather even in the cooler months. It’s 

also the time of year when the world’s longest running 

surf contest returns to our shores, and with it, a festival of 

events for the community to enjoy. This year, the Ballito Pro 

Presented by O’Neill Festival will take place from 27 June to 

9 July, and locals and visitors will be out and about enjoying 

entertainment, activities and beachside fun. 

GET INVOLVED 

This year’s festival programme promises an action-packed 

and fun-filled line-up. There will be two nights of music 

concerts on 6 and 7 July on Salt Rock Beach, featuring the 

likes of DJ Merlon, Oscar Mbo, Chynaman, Matthew Mole 

and The South Port. There’ll also be a market set up at 

the Willard Beach parking lot, where visitors will have the 

chance to support local businesses and soak up the festive 

vibe at the food court and cider garden. 

The After Dark programme will include events organised 

by local businesses, while beach soccer, sunrise yoga and 

pilates sessions, daily fashion shows, arts and crafts and 

exhibitions will keep the whole family busy. Overlapping 

with the school holidays, the festival will run events 

specifically for little ones — think face painting, sand castle 

building, and a kids’ dance programme. 

merchandise — O’Neill Blue — which will be manufactured 

from recycled cotton and polyester, as well as using a 

recycling process called Repreve, where used plastic bottles 

from the oceans and landfills are converted into durable 

fibres to make boardshorts. 

DO YOUR PART 

If you would like to get involved in a green initiative, look 

out for the eco-focused events that will be taking place 

throughout the festival. Litter4Tokens will be running an 

awareness campaign (with prizes worth R10 000 up for 

grabs!); the Litterboom Project is hosting beach and river 

clean-ups, as well as a 5km Fun Run; and the Weee are 

iLembe e-waste campaign will be dedicated to educating 

the public about the dangers of electronic waste. 

ALL ABOUT THE BLUE 

The theme for this year’s event is Konke KuLuhlaza — 

Zulu for Everything is Blue. Collette Bundy, The Ballito Pro 

Presented by O’Neill Festival Organiser, explains that the 

event is a celebration of the ocean, and takes inspiration 

from the local Zulu word ‘luhlaza’ which means blue. “It is 

fortuitous that ‘luhlaza’ also translates to ‘green’ because we’ll 

be weaving stories of sustainability into our ocean narrative 

with a great festival line-up planned for visitors,” she says. 

And when it comes to ocean health, the KwaDukuza 

Municipality has also taken steps to fully embrace 

environmental education, sustainability and beach safety. 

“We recently launched our Blue Flag Beach programme 

which will support our iconic tourism status as a key beach 

destination,” explains KwaDukuza Municipal Mayor Lindile 

Nhaca. “Through the event, we will bring awareness about 

protecting our coastline’s environmental richness.” 

The thread of sustainability will extend to the event 

DATES TO DIARISE 

29 June: Abba show at The Pumpkin Theatre 

30 June: Winston Smile at La Montagne 

3 July: Groundswell Groove Night 

4 July: iLembe Surf Riders fund raiser at Mozambik 

5 July: Bra Golf Day at Simbithi Golf Estate 

5 July: Battle of the DJs at KwaDukuza Town Hall 

6 & 7 July: Music concerts at Salt Rock Main Beach 

7 July: Lady L at La Montagne 

Details: www.theballitopro.com

Promotion 

Winter holiday fun 

It may be winter, but that doesn’t mean we’re staying indoors during the long 

mid-year break! From ziplining and monkey fun to holiday crafts and surf action . . . 

there’s something for everyone on the North Coast! 

The Orange Tree 

1Relax with one of the best coffees 

in Ballito whilst the kids enjoy 

the cute play area or one of the 

holiday activities at The Orange 

Tree this July. Their winter specials 

are a real treat - baby marrow 

fritters with avocado, poached 

egg & chilli honey; smoked 

salmon, dill cream cheese and 

caper bagels; daily seasonal soups 

- all accompanied by stunning 

views over the sugarcane fields, 

free Wi-Fi and no load shedding! 

Find them in Makers’ Yard, 

opposite the main entrance to 

Umhlali Preparatory School. 

Holiday opening hours: 

Mon-Sat 7am-2pm. 

Details: 084 074 9880, 

IG: theorangetree_sa 

2 

Monkeyland-kzn 

A visit to Monkeyland-KZN promises to 

be a truly unique and unforgettable day 

out - and the perfect way to spend the 

day with friends and family during the 

winter holidays. Your visit 

will include a guided walking tour 

through this stunning 23-hectare 

forest sanctuary in search of the freeroaming 

lemurs, monkeys and gibbon. 

Monkeyland-KZN’s mission is to educate 

and foster a greater understanding of 

our primate cousins and the threats 

they face. The sanctuary is open every 

day, including weekends and public 

holidays and if you bring this advert 

along you’ll get a 20% discount* 

Details: 032 004 0178, 

www.monkeylandkzn.co.za 

*Valid from 26 June to 30 July 2023. 

T &Cs apply. (GETIT20%)

Tree Trails 

We all know winter in Durban is 

the best time of year to get out 

and enjoy warm sunny days. If you 

haven’t tried it yet – and even if 

you have - Tree Trails is a mustdo 

these holidays. Featuring a 

high-ropes obstacle course that 

will challenge and excite you, 

Tree Trails offers an exhilarating 

experience you’ll long remember 

with side effects including 

confidence, perseverance, 

remembering how to use your 

body, and feeling awesome! 

Definitely one for the memory 

books! Details: 071 0502396, 

climb@treetrails.co.za, 

IG: @treetrails21 

3 

BALLITO PRO KIDS’ CORNER 

It’s that time of year when Ballito buzzes with 

excitement for the annual Ballito Pro surfing contest 

and families are spoilt for choice when it comes to 

events and activities to keep everyone busy over 

the holidays. This year, the festival will include a 

dedicated kids’ corner at Willard Beach. Little ones 

can enjoy face painting, sand castle building, a 

beach dash, and a Jive with Jen dance programme. 

Details: www.theballitopro.com, 

IG: @theballitopro 

4 on 

BALLITO FARMERS MARKET 

The Ballito Farmers Market is family and petfriendly, 

boasting a dedicated Little People’s 

Paddock, where children can play and have 

fun while parents relax and unwind. At the 

Ballito Farmers Market, you’ll find a wide 

range of food stalls, each offering delicious 

and unique cuisine, curated from locallysourced 

ingredients. 

Details: Every weekend (Saturday and 

Sunday), 7am – 2pm. The market is situated 

the R102, Lower Oaklands Farm, Umhlali

Gather & celebrate 

When a passionate cook, talented food stylist, fantastic designer and skilled 

photographers get together, magic happens. In this case, the magic presents itself 

in the form of a beautiful and inspiring new hardcover recipe book, called Gather. 

Text: Leah Shone Photographs: Chris Allan Photo 


Filled to the brim with pages upon pages of mouthwatering 

meals and delectable, celebratory dishes, Gather 

is not just an ordinary recipe book. It is a gorgeous labour 

of love, carefully curated by a team of St Anne’s College old 

girls, all of whom live on the North Coast. 

Their aim? To inspire both the experienced and the home 

cook by sharing easy-to-follow, exciting recipes and raise 

funds for bursaries that will allow other girls to join the St 

Anne’s family. 

Spearheaded by Ballito mother, passionate 

foodie and caterer, Theresa Rattray, Gather 

comprises 62 recipes - all of which were 

submitted by old girls and tried and tested 

by Theresa herself. 

“Food is my love language. I love feeding 

people and I love feeding myself,” she 

laughs. “I came up with the idea of doing 

the cookbook while chatting to a friend at 

an old girls' reunion. I have done a St Anne’s 

recipe book before, about 10 years ago, but 

I did that one on my own, even funding it 

myself. This time I wanted to do it properly 

with the right team to make it really special,” 

she says. 

St Anne’s Old Girls Cookbook 

Gather 

After approaching the St Anne’s Old Girls Guild, who agreed 

to support and fund the project, Theresa set about putting 

together her 'dream team'. 

Each bringing their own incredible skill sets and expertise 

to the project, Theresa managed to commission three other 

old girls to help her create the recipe book - Emily Allan 

(who works alongside her photographer husband Chris), 

successful food stylist and one half of the 'Delish Sisters' duo, 

Becs Woodcock and designer Annabelle Armstrong. 

Passionate about food her entire life, Theresa (a former farm 

girl from Mooi River and mother of four girls), has been a 

caterer, cooking teacher and café owner. Nothing brings her 

more joy than having her family around the table, cooking 

and eating together. 

“We decided to centre the theme of the recipes in the book 

around celebrations and 'celebratory food' - basically what 

people enjoy eating when they gather with family and 

friends around a table. We sent out emails 

to all the old girls and got about 120 recipe 

submissions.” 

Theresa sifted through them and tested the 

recipes, before whittling it down to the final 

62 that would make it into the book. “I had to 

cook every single recipe that is in the book 

twice - once to test it and then again when we 

photographed the dishes.” 

Theresa and the gang set aside a week 

in January to do the cooking, styling and 

shooting and her home at Umhlali Country 

Club was transformed into a 'studio'. 

“It ended up being the hottest week of 

the year and my aircon broke down,” she 

laughs. “It took us six days to shoot all 62 

recipes. I cooked, Becs styled and Emily and Chris took the 

photographs.” 

Although it was hard work, Theresa says, it was loads of 

fun. “And we ate like kings for the entire week! Of course, 

we had a few mishaps here and there - like the braided 

cinnamon bread that came out looking like a monster and 

had to be redone a few times - but it worked because we all 

respected each other's skill sets and didn't intervene with 

one another's roles.” 

A fun, behind-the-scenes moment captured during ‘shoot week’ with Becs Woodcock, Theresa Rattray and Philly Hill. 

July 2023 Get It • Ballito • Umdloti • Umhlanga 23

From beautiful, comforting broths and 

breads to delicious cakes and treats, 

the recipes in Gather all come with 

their own 'back story' from the person 

who submitted it. “I didn't change or 

adjust any of the recipes, but I did add 

the odd hint or tip here and there,” 

says Theresa. 

Determined to ensure the book was 

as diverse and inclusive as possible, 

some of the recipes submitted even 

came from current and past staff of 

the school. “Gather has everything 

from Shisanyama to carrot cake, and 

even recipes from around the world. 

We also tried to make sure that even 

traditional dishes such as roast lamb 

had an extra little edge or spin on the 

standard way of cooking it.” 

In terms of her own recipe 

submission, Theresa added her Italian 

chocolate wedding cake, the Double 

Diablo (a recipe she's been using for 

more than 30 years and never parted 

with until now!). 

Gather is available exclusively at Cookin 

at Lifestyle Centre Ballito (where you 

can find every utensil and item you 

might need to make all the recipes) and 

online for R485. A percentage of every 

sale goes to the St Anne’s Old Girls 

Guild. Details: @gatherrecipebook, 

www.cookinstores.co.za 

CHICKEN, VEG & SESAME BROTH 

You’ll need: 1 x whole chicken, 2 tsp olive oil, 3 tsp crushed garlic, 20g 

grated ginger, 2 red chillies (chopped), 2 onions (chopped), 4 carrots 

(chopped), 2 cups spinach (chopped), 3 litres water, 8 tsp chicken stock 

powder, 3 tsp sesame oil, 15g coriander (plus extra for garnishing), 4 tsp 

lime juice, 1 tsp honey, 2 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, toasted sesame 

seeds to top. 

To make: Using a large pot, on medium, heat, sauté the onions, garlic, 

chilli and ginger in the olive oil until translucent. Pour in the chicken stock 

and water and bring to a boil. Place the whole chicken inside the broth 

and let it simmer at a medium heat for 30 minutes. Take the chicken out 

of the pot and leave it to cool. Add carrots, spinach, sesame oil, coriander, 

lime juice, honey, salt and pepper to the broth and let it simmer for a 

further 15 minutes. While the broth simmers, shred the chicken and add 

to the broth pot. Serve bowls of hot delicious chicken broth topped with 

fresh coriander and toasted sesame seeds. 


HEATS: 

THURSDAYS: 12H00 & 18H00 

ONLINE BETTING 

EXCLUSIVE TO 

REWARDS MEMBERS 

THECANNABISEXPO.CO.ZA 

suncoast.durban 

@SUNCOASTDurban 

/gottaloveSUNCOAST 

suncoastcasino.co.za 

TEL: 031 328 3000

26 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga February 2022

North Coast 

PROPERTY 

guide 

Property on the North Coast is highly sought-after, and it’s easy to see why. From 

modern designs in luxury coastal estates to sprawling farmhouses surrounded by 

nature, there’s something for every lifestyle. We discover some of the area’s most 

beautiful (and creative) homes... 


Every exterior wall is unique and unusual, 

adding interest to this beautiful home. 

The interior is elegant, clean and calming. 

The kitchen is quaint and practical and beautiful 

polished concrete floors run throughout the home. 

A striking white slasto wall and floating 

concrete staircase greet you at the entrance. 

The built-in dining room seat has been 

nicknamed the ‘Wimpy bench’ by guests! 


Simple 

yet striking 

They say team work 

makes the dream work 

. . . and this certainly 

seems to have been the 

case with the design 

and construction of this 

beautiful Zululami home. 

It may be small, modest and unassuming, but there is 

nothing dull or bland about this stylish abode in the 

Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate. 

Exuding a slightly retro 'Californian beach-house' vibe, there 

are countless special touches and details that make the 

house both incredibly unique and perfectly suited to the 

family that calls it home. 

Designed by Paul Nel Architects, the three-bedroom, threebathroom 

house was carefully planned and configured to 

suit the needs of the outdoorsy and minimalistic family of 

four it was intended for. 

The home was built by Jemstruct, who completed the 

project in just seven months. Owner Matthew Chaplin 

believes the reason the build was such a great success 

was because everything was 'done right' from the 

beginning. “The architect spent time getting to know the 

family, finding out intimate details about their lifestyle, and 

when he showed them the first draft of the plans, they 

were thrilled.” 

The owners did their homework as well, says Matthew. 

“They had a comprehensive bill of quantities compiled 

and got quotes and met with different builders before 

deciding to go with us. They were really hands-on and 

every time we needed their input, they came straight to 

the site and made quick decisions. This helped the process 

move quickly and smoothly.” 

Despite being surrounded by much larger homes, this 

340m² open-plan house stands out because of its unique 

finishes and carefully thought-out floor plan. 

Located at the end of a cul-de-sac, alongside a green belt, 

there is a floating, concrete staircase and striking, white 

painted slasto-tiled wall to greet you at the front door and 

lead you towards the entrance. 

Instead of a typical, long design (with the kitchen, dining 

room and lounge all in a row) the house has an L-shape 

structure, and the relatively small yet lovely kitchen is 

practical and well thought out. 

Stunning, polished concrete floors run throughout the 

home, and are showcased beautifully in the spacious living 

area. The dining room has a built-in bench and long dining 

room table that are tucked away to create a wonderful 

sense of openness. 

Another unique feature (the house is home to two teenage 

boys), is the second kids' lounge, situated between the two 

boys' bedrooms. The entire section can be closed off with 

an oversized glass sliding door, allowing the teens to have 

their own space while still being part of the home. 

There are a number of other elements that speak to the 

family's lifestyle and needs, including an outdoor shower 

to rinse off after being on the beach, a store room for 

surfboards and bikes (instead of a typical garage) and 

even an alcove built specifically to house a piano (for the 

musically-inclined son in the family). 

In fact, everything about the design resonates with the 

minimalistic, less-is-more, slightly quirky ethos of the family 

who live there. 

“The owners didn't want a big home, but they still 

wanted something beautiful that they could be proud 

of,” says Matthew. “I think we have managed to give them 

that. Every space has a purpose and the interior and 

exterior of the home merge perfectly to create a sense of 

space and calmness.” 

Details: Jemstruct – www.jemstruct.com, @jemstruct_sa, 

www.paulnelarchitects.com, @paulnelarchitects 

Jemstruct owner and 

family man Matthew 


PROMOTION 

ECR House + Garden 

Décor Must-Haves 

These beautiful décor spoils are the perfect way to spruce up 

your home this Winter! 

House Aashirya 

We speak to Trish Asrai, owner of House Aashirya that specialises 

in quality duvet covers, pillows, towels and bedding, to the 

public and hospitality industry. 

Tell us briefly about your business: Our business specialises 

in supplying high-quality duvet covers, pillows, towels, and 

bedding to both the public and establishments such as hotels, 

B&Bs, and spas. We pride ourselves on offering a wide range 

of stylish and comfortable products that enhance the overall 

experience of our customers. With a focus on quality, durability, 

and aesthetic appeal, we strive to meet the diverse needs and 

preferences of our clientele. Whether you are looking to refresh 

your home or provide a luxurious experience for your guests, we 

have the perfect bedding solutions for you. 

Give us a décor tip: Embrace regal elegance with a king-sized 

pillow for a luxurious bedroom statement. This adds a touch of 

elegance fit for royalty. 

What hot July promotion is on offer? Premium, hotel-grade, 

down-alternative pillows, for a blissful night’s sleep (R499). 

Contact: 074 5852887 • info@houseaashirya.com or 

houseaashiryas@icloud.com • www.houseaashirya.com 

Rugs Original 

Rugs Original, one of South Africa’s largest 

national importers of Persian, Oriental and 

modern rugs, offers a range of superior floor 

coverings, designed to inspire style, and add 

comfort to any space. 

A Décor tip for 2023: Vintage and antique rugs 

have emerged as a captivating rug trend in 2023, 

even for the most contemporary of homes. 

These rugs effortlessly evoke a comforting sense 

of ‘home’ while serving as an essential element 

in grounding a room’s ambiance. They also infuse 

a distinct touch of history and cultural richness 

into any space they adorn. 

What hot July promotion is on offer? 

Customers can look forward to transforming 

their home into a warm and inviting sanctuary, 

by taking advantage of Rugs Original’s Winter 

sale. Whether you’re looking for a luxuriously, 

plush rug to sink your toes into, or a trendy 

statement piece to update your décor, there is 

something to suit everyone’s style and budget. 

Phone: 087 353 9785 • FB: RugsOriginalSA 

IG: rugsoriginal

That estate life . . . 

The North Coast has boomed in recent years, attracting people from all over the 

country with its beautiful beaches, enviable weather and chilled-out lifestyle. As more 

and more people relocate to the area, the number of estates continues to grow. With so 

many options available, how do you choose which one is right for you? We take a look 

at what some of the most popular developments have to offer… 

FOR THE RETIREE 

Coral Cove at Zululami Luxury Coastal Estate has been 

designed specifically as a retirement community, and 

includes a variety of property styles — think freestanding 

garden villas, maisonettes, and apartments. There are 

options for those who need assisted living, as well as those 

who prefer a more independent lifestyle. 

Residents will certainly be kept busy at this estate — facilities 

will include an outdoor and indoor heated swimming pool, 

an air-conditioned cinema, a gourmet restaurant and coffee 

shop, and a fully-equipped wellness centre. 

And, for those who need medical attention, there is a 

state-of-the-art care centre, which will offer frail and 

dementia care. The care centre will be operational as the 

first residences are occupied. Auria Senior Living owns and 

operates CCRCs throughout South Africa, and has received 

numerous prestigious international awards, placing them 

amongst the best in the world. 

FOR THE ACTIVE OVER-50’s 

Capri Village, located in the Salta Sibaya estate, 

boasts some exceptional amenities. One of its most 

standout features is the discreet medical care access 

in conjunction with Total Care, ensuring convenient 

healthcare for residents. 

And for those who love to be out and about, there are two 

stunning clubhouses: Capri Clubhouse, Salta Clubhouse, 

Salta Sports Centre, a two-kilometre-long park, and Marine 

Walk Shopping Centre — the latter also serving up a 

number of convenient shopping and dining options. 

So much of the appeal of living on the North Coast is the 

wonderful sense of community the area is known for, and 

Capri Village really embraces this. Capri Village offers the 

opportunity for multi-generational living for active over 50s 

within the greater Salta estate. Residents can expect stateof-the-art 

security, private gardens, step-free units, and a 

pet-friendly environment in which they can stay healthy, 

engaged, and connected. 

32 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga July 2023

FOR THE FAMILY 

Lalela Estate, a gorgeous, pet-friendly estate in Sheffield 

has been thoughtfully designed to cater for the 

unique needs of families. Everything here is geared for 

connected living. The seamless integration of open-plan 

kitchens and living rooms creates a harmonious blend of 

indoor and outdoor spaces, complemented by private 

gardens and tranquil terraces, plus plenty of convenient 

parking. 

Families will love the variety of exceptional amenities, 

which include a clubhouse, braai area, pools, kids’ club, 

putt-putt, cricket nets, tennis courts, and a skate park. 

Embracing sustainability, each single-story home is 

inverter-ready for solar panels, and offers energy-efficient 

gas hobs and stoves. The homes also come with a water 

harvesting tank. 

Seaton Estate is all about 

the outdoor lifestyle. 

FOR THE NATURE-LOVER 

Seaton Estate is located on a beautiful stretch of 

coastline, and is all about the outdoor lifestyle. With 1.1 

kilometres of pristine beachfront and access to worldclass 

facilities, it's a truly unique development. 

The estate focuses on environmental sustainability, 

rehabilitating grasslands and forests, planting thousands 

of trees, and promoting carbon neutrality with lowvoltage 

appliances and solar geysers. The masterfully 

designed Gatehouse sets the stage for the estate's 

commitment to sustainable living. 

Outdoorsy families will love the on-site equestrian 

facility, and exclusive access to Seaton Beach Club, while 

the Seaton Country Club is a great spot to socialise 

and relax. Seaton residents also enjoy reciprocity with 

additional amenities at the neighbouring Zululami 

Luxury Coastal Estate. 

Lalela Estate is family-friendly 

and ideal for pet-lovers. 

July 2023 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga 33


Meet the 

sculptor 

Text: Leah Shone 

From sensational sculptures to stunning, 

uniquely shaped ceramics, potter Vusi 

Bernard Ntshalintshali brings experience, 

passion and vision to his creations at The 

Pottery in Ballito. 

ne might never believe that a young farm boy, 

growing up moulding animals from river clay in 

the Drakensberg mountains, could one day turn 

his childhood hobby into a career. 

But that is precisely what former Ardmore ceramic 

studio painter and sculptor Vusi has done. 

Although most of the sculptures he creates in his spare time 

are inspired by African animals and magnificent, emotive 

Christian-based narratives, Vusi also has a natural affinity for 

unusual shapes and ceramic ware. 

It’s easy to understand how 49-year-old Vusi fell in love 

with sculpting when you consider the fact that he grew 

up on Ardmore farm in the Champagne Valley area of the 

Drakensberg. 

The now world-famous Ardmore ceramic studio (which was 

established on the farm in 1985 and then moved to the 

KZN Midlands a few years later), was where Vusi first learnt 

to tap into his artistic skill. At the time, both Vusi’s parents 

were working on the farm – his father as an ‘induna’ and his 

mother in the dairy. 

“Growing up in the mountains, I used to spend a lot of time 

playing with clay in the rivers,” says Vusi. “I would make cars, 

goats, cows and tractors … all the things I saw around me. I 

never could have guessed that these items might one day 

be sold.” 

One of five siblings, Vusi spent much of his youth working 

on the farm, helping with the cows and goats. He was also 

very skilled at drawing. “Fee (Ardmore founder) invited me 

to join the studio and trained me and other artists working 

there to paint plates and ceramics.” 

After a couple of years, Vusi decided to spread his wings and 

moved to Johannesburg where he worked as a painter in a 

small ceramic studio. Here he started training himself on the 

potter’s wheel, using recycled clay. 

He soon discovered a passion for sculpting. “I’ll never forget 

the first person I made out of clay, Nelson Mandela,” he 

says. It was one of his Christian-based sculptures, however, 

that led to Vusi winning a national award in 2002 (after 

he’d returned to Ardmore). The piece was called ‘Hunting 

Christians on the Road to Damascus’. 

Vusi continued to work at Ardmore until 2008, then spent 

a few more years working with clay in Johannesburg until 

he ended up back home, where he tried to start his own 

studio. Things didn’t work out though and, while looking for 

a job online, he came across The Pottery in Ballito where he 

worked for almost a year. While there Vusi was responsible 

for making many of the items in the store. 

His passion, however, remains creating his own sculptures 

and pushing the boundaries of creativity and his dream is to 

one day open his own, successful pottery studio. 


COMPOSITE WOOD DECKING, 

WALL CLADDING, FLUTED PANELING, 

PERGOLA, BALUSTRADE, 

GATES AND FLOORING 

 


BRINGING THE BEST TO KZN 

Best Deck + Flooring (BD+F) 

opens its doors in Umhlanga, KZN 

Best Deck + Flooring is the expert in the supply and 

installation of composite wood products. We are an 

integral part of the end result and aesthetic design 

for some of the biggest and most beautiful 

developments in Africa. 

Opening in Umhlanga, KZN 

BD+F is extending our well-established reach from 

Gauteng and the Western Cape to KwaZulu-Natal. KZN is 

calling and, with world-class quality products and 

unmatched service delivery to this industry, BD+F is 

excited to service the province. Our products are ideal 

for extreme heat or extreme cold, dry or humid 

conditions; inland or on the coast. We have what you 

need. 

Riverhorse Valley in Umhlanga is our port of call. A 

new benchmark in the composite wood industry in 

KZN is happening. BD+F’s KZN showroom will exhibit 

every product in every colour. Over the next few months, 

the warehouse will be fully stocked with all our products. 

BD+F has the largest stock holding in Africa. 

Some of Best Deck + Flooring’s 

KZN Projects 

 

 

 

 

 

Umhlanga Arch – we decked out the penthouses, 

Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, common areas, and flagship 

SMG BMW dealership. 

North Beach Tourism Centre, Durban – Best 

Deck supplied ice-white, stain- and 

moisture-resistant wood-grain cladding 6 years ago 

and it looks like it was installed yesterday. 

Brookdale Health Hydro, Nottingham Road – we 

uplifted 200m 2 of rotting timber decking and its 

framework and replaced it with a stunning 

composite wood deck and galvanised steel 

substructure. 

Hollywood Bets Umhlanga – BD+F uplifted the 

rotted timber frame and decking, and replaced it 

with composite decking and a new substructure. 

Zimbali, Ballito, Salt Rock - we are prominent in 

these areas. 

What Makes Us The Best? 

Our unbeatable experience makes us experts. We 

understand that the end result must be an experience; 

with eco-friendly products that are rot-free, termite-free, 

maintenance-free, and that won’t warp or crack - a 

one-time spend. 

EastCoastRadio House & Garden Show 1-9 July 2023 

Durban Exhibition Centre - Stand N77 Outdoors 

Here Best Deck will Showcase our amazing Range of Quality Composite Wood Products 

Lower Ground – Unit 6 & 7 – Redlyn Business Park – 5 Riverhorse Place – KZN 

BD+F Joburg +27 10 500 2897 - BD+F Cape Town +27 21 001 2880 - BD+F KZN +27 31 028 0070 

Decking, cladding, pergolas, balustrades, gates, screens and now SPC (Stone Plastic Composite flooring) 

February 2022 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga 37

How to 

choose 

art for 

your home 

Finding quality artwork to 

complement your space 

requires careful consideration. 

We asked local artist 

Ali Cockburn for her tips on 

finding, and placing, the 

perfect pieces… 

Text: jennifer campbell 

Art has the power to transform a 

home, but the process of selecting 

the right painting can often feel 

overwhelming. When choosing an 

artwork that will work with your 

particular space and reflect your 

personal aesthetic, the starting point 

is simple — buy art that you love. 

“Select art that is an extension of 

your personality and that speaks to 

you,” advises Ali. “What resonates with 

one person, may not resonate with 

another. Never be swayed by other 

people’s opinions or current trends. 

You have to live with it, and you need 

to love it.” 

CHOOSE A COLOUR PALETTE 

Ali suggests selecting art that complements the existing theme of the room, 

unless you are starting from scratch. “If you have seen a piece of art that you 

really love, it’s often easier to decorate a room when you have an existing colour 

palette with which to work,” she says. 

If you would like to place an artwork on a wall that has been wallpapered, Ali 

suggests choosing a fairly simple piece in similar colours. The same applies if 

you are decorating a dark or loud-coloured wall. “You certainly don’t want the 

painting to clash with the wall covering or colour,” says Ali. It's also worth bearing 

in mind that some artists print their art onto wallpaper, which is often a costeffective 

option. 

Once you have decided on your colour scheme and like the work of a particular 

artist but can’t find something in their portfolio that will complement your home, 

Ali suggests asking the artist to commission something for you. 


CONSIDER THE SIZE 

The size and scale of an artwork will impact 

its suitability for a particular space. Ali says 

that although art should be the focal point of 

any room, it should not overcrowd the space. 

Common mistakes include hanging artwork 

at the incorrect height; and placing art on a 

wall that is not suited to the layout or size of 

the piece. 

To get the position of your artwork right, Ali 

suggests hanging the piece at eye level, or 

approximately 152 centimetres from the floor. 

If you’re hanging art above a piece of furniture, 

however, it’s best to position the bottom of the 

frame between 15 and 20 centimetres from the 

top of the sofa or dresser, at the middle point. 

“The artwork should take up no more than 

two thirds of the width of the area of the wall 

behind the furniture.” 

Once you have chosen your artwork, you 

might wonder if it’s necessary to have it framed. 

“Framing artwork is a very personal choice,” 

says Ali. “If you are in doubt as to frame or not, 

seek the advice of the artist. The composition 

of the artwork will depend on the choice of 

frame. Personally, I like to frame my pieces and 

I usually go for a simple wooden frame, either 

in its natural colour or painted in a colour that 

complements the artwork.” 

PROTECT YOUR PIECES 

To properly take care of your art, it’s important that you don’t expose 

it to sunlight. “The sun’s UV rays will break down the colour pigments 

of the paint and your beautiful painting will gradually fade, especially 

if the artist has not used artist grade paints with good lightfastness or 

permanence,” explains Ali. If it’s not possible to keep your art out of 

the sun completely, close the blinds when the sun is at its strongest, or 

better still, have a UV film installed on your windows. 

When it comes to cleaning, artwork should only be lightly dusted with 

a very soft bristled brush. Dirt and dust should never be allowed to 

settle on the paint. 

If you’re placing a piece of art in a bathroom, make sure that it has 

been coated with a protective varnish or spray. “I have often placed my 

artwork in clients’ bathrooms, and the important thing to remember is 

the bathroom must be well ventilated. The artwork must not be placed 

above or next to an area that gives off a lot of steam.” 

MEET ALI COCKBURN 

Ali Cockburn is an abstract artist based in Ballito. She is also the 

founder of ACA — Ali Cockburn Atelier — which offers bespoke décor 

items and fabrics featuring her art images. 

Details: www.alicockburn.com 


pink & perfect 

In a pot or in the garden - our gloves are on 

and this is what we’re planting this July ... 

Tangy, crunchy micro greens are the easiest of all veggies to 

grow. In July, all they need is a warm, sunny windowsill or 

room for germination. Look out for micro green mixes like 

‘Rainbow blend’ or ‘Oriental mix’ or make your own mix of 

greens from a range of seed like beetroot ‘Bulls Blood’, 

Chinese cabbage, green mustard, radish and marog or 

baby spinach. Sow in seed trays every five to 10 days 

and snip with scissors when 2 – 4cm high. Harvest 

the smallest, delicate shoots and sprinkle on salads, 

roast veggies, open sarmies and just about any 

other dish. 

Details: kirchhoffs.co.za; rawliving.co.za 

Text: ALICE COETZEE 

We’re planting… Verbena ‘Cadet’ for winter into spring flowering. 

This upright growing variety is equally suitable for growing in pots 

or in the garden. It is a new breed of verbena that doesn’t go in 

and out of flower, but consistently produces new blooms. It is also 

highly resistant to powdery mildew. The compact plants grow 20- 

25cm high with a spread of 30-36cm and they can be planted in 

full sun or in positions that receive morning sun. The colour range 

includes bright red, pink, purple and white. Its flowers attract 

butterflies. Details: ballstraathof.co.za 


Creative & contemporary 

There is nothing boring or typical 

about the magnificent Millican 

family farmhouse. Landscape 

architect and owner Bruce talks us 

through the incredible redesign of 

this fourth-generation home. 

Text: Leah Shone Photographs: Light & Lark Photography 

The inviting courtyard area features fabulous purple 

vanda orchids framed by striking black cages . 

A wire sculpture of a swimmer perched on a diving 

board, ready to plunge into the koi pond beneath 

it greets you at the impressive entrance of Bruce 

and his wife Vicki's Doringkop home. From the 

moment you arrive, you know this is not a 'typical' 

farmhouse. 

An unconventional creative and self-proclaimed 

'non-conformist', Bruce has created a breathtaking, 

unique home that not only suits the needs of his 

family, but has allowed him to showcase his vast 

landscape, design and project execution skills. 

The house, which is called 'Fallow Fields', is situated 

on a working sugar cane, macadamia nut and 

tea tree farm, and boasts an exquisite 180-degree 

ocean view. The farm belonged to Bruce's great 

grandparents, then his grandfather, his father and 

now him. 

“My parents moved to Ballito about 20 years ago, 

and we had tenants living in the farmhouse. My 

wife and I (and our now teenage triplets) were 

living nearby, but when I turned 50 a few years 

ago, I decided it was time to come back to the 

farm,” says Bruce. 

The house was extremely rundown though and 

needed a makeover. Some of the rooms - like the 

kitchen and bathrooms - had to be completely 

gutted. “We wanted to give it a fresh new look, and 

our goal was to create an easy-living, open-plan 

home that would allow us to be flexible and use 

the different spaces, while still being together as a 

family.” 

“My wife wanted it to have a 'sub-tropical' vibe 

and I did my best to achieve that - especially in the 

garden, which has elements of a jungle feel to it.” 

Flooded with ideas, Bruce's creative juices started 

flowing and, a year-and-a-half (and a great deal of 

time spent shopping on Facebook marketplace) 

later, the result is a gloriously modern, threebedroom 

family home set in exquisite, lush 

surroundings. 


The swimming pool was extended, elevated and painted black 

to match the house. It has a gorgeous, oversized ‘martini step’ ... 

perfect for lounging in with a cocktail in hand. 

“I love design and I love a challenge,” says Bruce, who 

has spent much of his life working in landscaping, 

and was also the chairman of St. Lukes Home of 

Healing for more than 25 years. He also has 'green 

fingers' and Bruce's passion for growing and 

collecting beautiful plants and flowers is evident 

both inside and outside the home. 

There are countless unique elements and points of 

interest and everything – from the wide staircase 

leading you into the home, “because you want 

your guests to enter side-by-side and not lined 

up like ants”, to the one-of-a-kind, specially-made 

double stable front doors – was carefully thought 

out and executed by Bruce himself. 

The fact that the exterior is painted entirely black 

adds to the dramatic appeal, as does the incredible 

facade (made from concrete blocks from the old 

tennis court), which features its very own porthole. 

Bruce used re-purposed, plantation-style Natal red 

brick, which he harvested (with permission) from 

an old nearby sugar mill, extensively for both the 

interior and exterior and married it with a plaster 

band theme, which runs throughout the home. 

Always looking for ways to make things interesting 

and unique, Bruce wanted a double volume 

entrance hall, which features striking black and 

white tiles and is finished off with an oversized 

window that looks out onto a magnificent span of 

manicured lawn, swimming pool, sugar cane and 

the ocean in the distance. 

The beautiful farmhouse has been in the Millican family 

for four generations. 


Bruce and Vicki Millican 

The interior is as fascinating as the exterior and 

almost every item - whether practical or decorative 

- has a unique tale around how it came to be in the 

house. “I can't believe how many wonderful items 

you can find second hand,” laughs Bruce. “This whole 

experience has led to me meeting some interesting 

and amazing people.” 

Bruce is particularly proud of the kitchen, which 

features a magnificent custom-made terrazzo slab 

made with crushed green Italian marble. The green 

colour theme has been pulled through to the bold, 

lime-hued scullery, adding a splash of fun and quirk 

to the living area. 

With teenage triplets, it was imperative to Bruce 

and Vicki that each bedroom had its own en-suite 

bathroom and that the children we allowed to 

design their own spaces. The couple also ensured 

there were a number of different communal areas 

and each one (much like the rest of this wonderful, 

contemporary abode) has its own unique flair and 

ambiance. 

Details: Bruce Millican – 083 937 2887 

Trellidor Gallery 

VISIT OUR LATEST SHOWROOM TO VIEW OUR EXCITING PRODUCT RANGE 

44 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga February 2022 

031 569 5000 

CENTRE OF DESIGN 

BALLITO BUSINESS PARK

February 2022 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga 45

FOURWAYS 

Tel: (011) 691-7700 

SILVER LAKES 

Tel: (012) 809-3519 

UMHLANGA 

Tel: (031) 566-6777 

www.sevens.co.za

Promotion 

Plan (and book!) your getaway 

The middle of the year has come and gone. So, if you haven’t booked your December holiday 

yet - it’s high time you did! Whether you fancy a bush escape, a beach getaway or a mountain 

retreat . . . we’ve got you covered! 

The Cavern 

The Cavern is midway between 

Joburg and Durban — a beautiful 

country drive. The resort offers all 

sorts of activities, including daily 

guided hikes, fishing, horse trails 

and pony rides. It’s a place where 

families bond, friendships are 

formed and memories are made. 

It’s a tucked-away romantic escape 

for couples, a retreat for quiet 

and solitude, and a child-friendly 

resort with fun activities. Book your 

summer stay with us! 

Details: info@cavern.co.za 

IG: the_cavern_resort_drakensberg, 

FB: cavern.drakensberg, 

www.cavern.co.za 

Yembeni Bush Lodge 

Yembeni Bush Lodge offers a bushveld experience 

beckoning you to embrace the extraordinary. Adventure 

meets luxury at this all-inclusive, astonishing African bush 

lodge, just 30 minutes inland from Ballito. Rediscover 

the essence of true relaxation, rejuvenation and human 

connection. 

Details: 032 815 1050 / 083 352 6830, www.rainfarm.co.za 

Utshwayelo Kosi Mouth Lodge And Camp 

Utshwayelo Kosi Mouth Lodge and Camp is the most northeastern 

beach in South Africa. Enjoy the breath-taking natural beauty 

of the Isimangaliso Wetlands Park. Our luxury tents and pristine 

campgrounds offer the ultimate retreat. Explore untouched 

beaches, indulge in home cooked meals, and create memories to 

last a lifetime. Book your blissful getaway today! 

Details: 0823291033, info@kosimouth.co.za, www.kosimouth.co.za

Spoil 

July 

Delectable spoils from 

the fabulous new 

Wedgewood store 

The opening of the brand-new Wedgewood Gifting & Hamper Emporium at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre has 

got us very excited. Exquisitely gift-wrapped, decadent handmade honey nougat goodies and ice cream … yes 

please! To celebrate this exciting opening, we’re giving away a stunning Heirloom Oak Diamond Hamper filled to 

the brim with all your Wedgewood favourites. Containing four elegant, white Wedgewood hand-thrown mugs with 

insignia bees, Wedgewood Celebration Crackers, Cherubs All Butter Shortbread Biscuits and a range of signature 

Wedgewood Handmade Nougat Gift Boxes, this beautiful hamper will bring its owner so much happiness! Be sure 

to visit the new Wedgewood Ballito Gifting & Hamper Emporium at the Ballito Lifestyle Centre. To stand a chance to 

win this Wedgewood Diamond Hamper worth R4500, find this post on our social media platforms (@GetItMagNC) 

and follow the prompts! Good luck!

July 23 Ballito Umhlanga

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?