April 24 - Lowveld

Lynmarie
Griffioen
All dressed up
April is Autism
Awareness Month
A bottle of gorgeous
floral musky
gourmand fragrance
... Signorina Libera is
up for grabs
Dining on
a dime
Frothy Lowveld
cascades &
plunge pools
Inspired Living
SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD
APRIL 2024

Dining
on a
dime
Page 20

contents
GET IT
Editorial
Phone 013 754 1600
Lowveld Media
12 Stinkhout Crescent, Mbombela
Facebook Get It Lowveld
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Website getitmagazine.co.za/lowveld/
Editor
Mellissa Bushby
mellissa@getitlowveld.co.za 084 319 2101
Photographers
Tanya Erasmus 083 778 7725
Belinda Erasmus 082 567 0596
Layout
Wessel Cöhrs 074 801 4477
Subeditors
Wahl Lessing
Ida de Wet
Annica Fourie
Sales
Colletha Noppé Rattray
colletha@lowvelder.co.za 082 745 2387
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 Get It
Lowveld within 10 days or they will be forfeited.
Prizewinners names are published on our
Facebook page monthly.
Why don’t you ...
02 Awaken the artist within, win tickets to a wine show,
or attend a cement-making workshop
04 Raging storms, chills and thrills and a sublime Irish
whiskey thrown in for luck
WISH LIST
06 Cheerful, invigorating and lively ... we’re
loving all things yellow
SOcial
08 A day of pawsome fun at Pro-Life’s annual
Smooch-a-Pooch and Cuddle-a-Cat
08 A glimpse into the dazzling beauty of orchids
09 Dr Jane Goodall’s inspiring message of hope
people
10 Fashion designer and dressmaker Lynmarie Griffioen
is chock full of amazing energy
14 We chat to mum Cindy Coetzee about autism
ahead of Autism Awareness Month
FOOD
20 Smart spending tips for dining on a budget and getting
more bang for our buck in the grocery aisles
COMMUNITY
24 A win for BUCO’s eastern region
26 Developing the local community one brick at a time
TRAVEL
30 We visit a few magnificent Lowveld waterfalls
Win
03 Tickets to the value of R500 to the Unwined
Local Food & Wine Show
32 A bottle of gorgeous floral, musky gourmand
fragrance ... Signorina Libera
COVER LOOK
Lynmarie Griffioen.
Photographer: Belinda Erasmus - Belle Grace Photography.
Make-up: Elsabé Steyn - Elsabé Steyn Styling Studio.
Venue: The Blue Gate, Mbombela.
april 2024
April 2024 Get It Lowveld 01

OPEN
Thu | Fri | Sat: 5pm to 2am
Sip on the scenery
A hot date!
Pencil these events into your April diary
right now
Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Drink Responsibly
RM-EMN0413NC
emnotweni.co.za | 013 757 4300
18-21
Discover your inner artist at the Art Awakening Workshop in the
picturesque historical village of Kaapsehoop. You will receive basic
art materials, accommodation for the four-day workshop, meals,
non-alcoholic drinks, a permit and excursions. Accommodation is in
single rooms with private bathroom en suite. Not included: alcoholic
beverages, meals and drinks ordered outside the allocated mealtimes,
staff gratuity and additional outdoor activities. Meals for Saturday
evening and Sunday morning are for your own account. Cost of the
workshop is R5 000. Details: Andrea on 066 230 3383
If you have a date for our diary, email the info at least a month in advance to mellissa@getitlowveld.co.za

Win!
We are giving away two tickets to the value of R500 to Unwined,
Your Local Food & Wine Show, held on May 4. To enter, simply
pop over to our Facebook page (Get It Lowveld), find the Unwined
post and follow the prompts. Good luck!
Get creative with Mhaka Solutions
13at their Beginner Cement
Moulding Workshop. The cost of the
workshop is R1 200 for the day, which
includes all training materials, all your
moulds, a training manual, certificate and
welcome drink. A 50% deposit secures
your spot. Details: 081 800 8043
Book your tickets to enjoy another
20outstanding performance by Riri
Rouge and Aurora Crysis. The event
takes place at Just Pink Café & Venue at
Sonpark Shopping Centre and is sure to
be a fabulous evening of glitz and glam!
Tickets are available on www.howler.co.za/
Justpinkdragshow. Details: 079 389 1717
Grab the kids for a night out with
27Appel when he performs at Blue
Moon. Tickets will be on sale at the door,
and a tuck shop and cash bar available (no
‘bring your own’). Tickets cost R200, the
gates open at 5 pm, and the show starts
at 8 pm. Details: Monique on 071 890 2020
(WhatsApp)
RM-AVI0308NC

Book club
It’s all raging storms and missing guests and thrills and chills.
With a chic-lit thrown in for those who don’t need the adrenalin rush.
Alex Michaelides, author of The Private
Patient, is all over social media talking
about his latest novel, The Fury. A
former movie star invites half a dozen
guests to stay on a private Greek
Island. Should be idyllic ... except one
of the group is a killer. Told by Elliot
Chase (is he good, is he bad?) it’s all
love, obsession, murder ... and loads
of twists. Penguin
In Lisa Gardner’s Still See You Everywhere, missing persons
specialist Frankie Elkin is on an isolated island off the coast
of Hawaii. Her mission ... to find Lani, the missing sister of a
Death Row serial killer known as The Beautiful Butcher.
Lani is being held captive by her millionaire ex-boyfriend
on the island and the only way to gain access is for Frankie
to go undercover. But can Frankie really trust the word of
a serial killer? It’s Lisa Gardner. You know it’s going to be a
spectacular read. Penguin
With a scare on each page, you’re going to need
a stiff drink. And we’re loving The Pogues
- the official whiskey of the legendary Celtic
punk band, one which celebrates the poetic
rebelliousness of the Irish. This blended Irish
whiskey boasts distinctive notes of caramel,
malt, dried dark fruit, spices, honey and a touch
of vanilla. You can drink on the rocks, or with
your fave mixer. There are no rules! Around R329
from your local bottle store.
04 Get It Lowveld April 2024

A week-long grief retreat on a
beautiful country estate. A raging
storm (there’s always a storm, isn’t
there!). A missing guest. Many
secrets. And a murderer. The Grief
House by Rebecca Thorne may
well be the most chilling book you
read this year. Bloomsbury
A group of friends reunite for
a remote glamping holiday ...
a relaxing long weekend. But
before the weekend’s over, the
20-year-long friendships start to
crumble, there’s a storm (obvs),
and one of the party is missing.
No phone signal, no help, and
a dead body. Twists, turns and
chilling tension ... Hannah Richell’s
The Search Party will keep you
guessing. Simon and Schuster UK
In this Michael Bennett thriller, a serial
killer sniper is taking out impossible
targets - all apparently unrelated - in
New York. The profile ... great with a
gun, probably ex-military. Which
perfectly describes Bennett’s new
partner - who’s quiet and secretive
and often suspiciously absent from
duty. Cross Hairs by James Patterson
and James O’Born ... a really terrific
read. Penguin
A collage girl looking for a new start,
away from her small town, her family,
and the memories of her dead best
friend, moves into a shared house
with a trio of new friends. All’s well -
even if one is a little strange ... until
one of them disappears, and a boy
in the frat house next door is found
dead. Only If You’re Lucky by Stacy
Willingham ... great plot and sinister
read. HarperCollins UK
And the chic lit option ... What if you
could skip the boring parts. The dating.
The lazy flatmates. The climbing up
the work ladder. Skipping straight
to married, two perfect children,
a high-powered job. When this
happens to 26-year-old (now suddenly
40-something) Lucy, she discovers
that along with the good parts, there
are surprises too. Sophie Cousens’
The Good Part. Hodder and Stoughton
Compiled by: Kym Argo
All books available at Exclusive Books and exclusivebooks.co.za
April 2024 Get It Lowveld 05

Wish list
Cover me with sunshine
Make a positive change ... and eat your bowl!
These eco-friendly, wholesome, edible crisp
Munch Bowls are perfect for picnics and
functions ... they’re made of stone ground,
unbleached wheat flour and digestive bran
infused with rooibos tea for its antioxidant
and preservative qualities. There are no
nasties, they hold any food -
even hot soup for up to three
hours, are microwave and
freezer friendly and come in
a bowl and a saucer. And the best
part ... once you’ve finished your
food, you simply eat the bowl. They
come in packs of between eight
and twenty, and cost from
around R4.35 a bowl. Details:
marketing@munchinnovation.com
or WhatsApp 061-934-9313.
Frayed edge bucket
hat with adjustable
drawstring, R479
from zara.com
06 Get It Lowveld April 2024
Invigorating. Lively.
Cheerful. Abercrombie &
Fitch Authentic Self is all
lemon zest, red currant,
and juicy Pear, with
jasmine petals, freesia and
lily of the valley, finishing
with absolute cedar
wood, sandalwood, musk
adrenaline. It’s a breath
of fresh air, R1299 from
Dis-Chem.

Create a happy corner ...
sunshine mini vase, R185
from thehomequarter.co.za.
And grow pansies!
W Bath&Body Awake
energising citrus blossom
glycerine soap, R49.95,
and everyday delights
citrus body wash, R119
from Woolworths.
An armful of joy. We’re besotted with the exquisite
bracelets and necklaces from Lemons and Grace Studio ...
they’re one-off originals, are handmade and so affordable.
These chartreuse porcelain beads with filigree silver (R400)
and yellow Evil Eye and Czech crystal (R280) versions
certainly meet the cover-me-with-sunshine brief. All deets
and orders via Instagram on @lemonsandgracestudio
Blondes have more fun!
It’s time to bring playfulness back into
the mix when it comes to drinking
whisky. No more stuffy standards ...
just the chance to let loose and make
mixing whisky fun again. Bright and
vibrant, Johnnie Walker Blonde is made
from a blend of wheat whiskies and
single malts predominantly matured
in first-fill American oak casks, and
has subtle fruit flavours with a gentle
vanilla finish ... perfect for casual
sipping on a sunny afternoon. Try it in a
chilled, ice-filled glass with lemonade
or tonic water and an orange slice
garnish, or with cola and a lemon slice.
@JohnnieWalker on Facebook and
Instagram. #KeepWalkingSA
April 2024 Get It Lowveld 07
Compiled by: Kym Argo

Pawsome
fun for all
It was best paw forward and fun all
around at the annual Smooch-a-Pooch
and Cuddle-a-Cat held at Pro-Life Pet
Rescue and Rehabilitation.
Kimberley van Wyk
and Erin Fitzgerald
Sandra de Sousa Kim and Steve Salzwedel Jenny Nelson
Orchids
for Africa
The recent Afri-Orchids open day
offered visitors a glimpse into a dazzling
display of these beautiful plants.
Keana Loots and Romie Bowen
Lienke, Alwyn and Anneline du Preez
Chanté and Genél Mellet
08 Get It Lowveld April 2024

Donna James, Kathleen Greeff,
Blake Piché and Tracy Russell
Emma and Johnathan Patterson
Message of hope
The world’s foremost chimpanzee expert, activist and conservationist
Dr Jane Goodall DBE recently paid a visit to the Lowveld to share her
conservation message.
Dr Jane Goodall
Farrah Cruse and Ty-Mason James
Sue and Iain Garratt
S i p | S a v o u r | u n w i n e d
12H00 - 18H00
@ MBOMBELA GOLF CLUB
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY
TICKET SALES ARE NOW OPEN!
4 May ‘24
un-wined.co.za
RM_UNW0413M
PROUDLY BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
IN ASSOCIATION WITH:
DRINK RESPONSIBLY | NO UNDER 18s

A FIT LIKE A
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY. Photographer: BELINDA Erasmus
With her splendidly extravagant creations and a live-wire personality to
match, Lynmarie Griffioen is living life on her terms - and loving every
minute of it.
Originally from Mbombela, Lynmarie’s
parents relocated to Cape Town as
she went into Grade 11, a move not
wholeheartedly appreciated by the
young Lynmarie. “I put up quite a fuss
about the move, oblivious to the fact
that they were acting out of necessity
rather than choice,” she smiles. “Every
decision they made, they made with
us in mind. My sister Chrizaan and I
worked at the weekend markets to
earn pocket money, a chapter in our
Lukas, Lynmarie, Du Preez and Lika Griffioen
lives that ultimately proved invaluable.
Those experiences weren’t just to be
able to afford nice stuff or to survive
the teenage years; they equipped
us with skills crucial for our future
endeavours, particularly in business.”
Lynmarie went on to study at the
Elizabeth Galloway Academy of
Fashion in Stellenbosch, and at
the end of her first year, a friend
suggested they go on holiday
together. Lynmarie couldn’t think of
a better way to spend her December
- sipping cold R & R while soaking
up the Mozambican sun. Little did
she know that that December would
shape the course of her life. “I left
South Africa carefree and single, and
came back completely and utterly
over-the-top in love!” she laughs.
“My parents always say when they
picked me up at the airport, as soon
as they saw me, they knew instantly I
had found ‘the one’! We had actually
crossed paths years earlier when I was
only 10. Du Preez was an extremely
shy blond boy who captured my
attention right from the start. Being
my friend’s cousin meant we spent a
lot of time together, especially during
family holidays when they invited me
along. Although our romantic journey
didn’t kick off until much later, deep
down I knew that this man would be
my husband.”
Lynmarie’s fashion journey started
with a love of visual arts. Drawn to it
from an early age, she sees fashion
as wearable art, a medium through
which creativity can be expressed.
After finishing high school, Lynmarie
opted for two gap years to allow her
parents time to save for her first year
of studies. “Every single day that I
wake up excited about what we are
going to make and create today, I
can’t help but think about my
parents. They made this dream a
reality, and I will always be grateful
for that,” she says.
During this period, Lynmarie
continued working at markets
while also venturing into the world
of movie sets, fascinated at how
clothing could transport you to a
10 Get It Lowveld April 2024

Lynmarie Griffioen

different era entirely. “I didn’t have
the privilege of growing up with a
mother or grandmother proficient
in sewing,” Lynmarie explains, adding
that her mother couldn’t even sew
on a button. “So stepping into my
first patterns class was a daunting
experience - I barely even knew what
a pattern was. However, my passion for
creation and my new-found fascination
with patterns and textiles drove me
forward. It was incredible to realise
that with just paper, a ruler and some
knowledge, one could craft something
truly remarkable.”
Lynmarie soon discovered that
patterns and textiles were her forte.
Falling in love with her now-husband
in the middle of her studies did not
set her back one bit. She completed
her three-year course, while she
and Du Preez had a long-distance
relationship for two years. “He was
doing his honours degree at Tuks while
working part-time to save for me flying
back and forth,” she says. “Although
Cape Town is a fashion hub, my heart
knew that wherever Du Preez goes,
I would go, because that is home to
me. I still remember the first birthday I
spent with him; he gave me a sewing
machine, something I desperately
needed at that stage. That was when I
realised this man supports my dreams,
and I was right - to this day he is my
number-one cheerleader.” The couple
have come full circle. Following a
career opportunity Du Preez was
offered in the Lowveld, they relocated,
and eight years later are living in (and
loving) the Lowveld, where both grew
up and now have the privilege to raise
their children.
Along with Dominique Ackermann, her
right hand and co-worker, Lynmarie
started her business making wedding
and matric farewell gowns full-time on
September 1, 2020, the first day of a
dream coming true. She loves her work
and wouldn’t change it for the world,
but admits that it is a tough industry.
“I get so excited when someone says
they want to go into fashion, but at
the same time I want to tell them that
only the strongest barely survive; that
you start out with 30 in your class, but
only 10 will finish the studies,” she says.
“This is one of the most competitive
businesses in South Africa. I decided
a long time ago that I am doing this
for me, for my future. Not to compare
12 Get It Lowveld April 2024
myself to anyone else, but to have the
privilege to wake up every morning
and do what I absolutely love. Not a lot
of people get to say that in a lifetime.”
Another lifelong dream came true two
years ago when Lynmarie found out
she was pregnant with twins. When
she was a little girl, she used to tell
her mother that someday she’d have
twins, and her mother would laugh
and say: ‘Well, find a man with twins in
his genes, because we don’t have any!’
At the beginning of my pregnancy,
I was extremely sick, and I couldn’t
understand why my jeans were already
so tight. Every time Chrizaan and Du
Preez saw me, they would ask: ‘How
are our babies doing?’ The first time we
saw our baby, at our eight-week sonar,
we heard the most amazing sound - a
tiny heartbeat. After taking a video
of this special moment, my husband
asked the doctor if she was sure there
was only one. She said: ‘I’m sure, but I’ll
look again.’ As she zoomed in, she cried:
‘Julle, hier is wragtig twee!’ Bouncing,
healthy babies Lukas and Lika were
born at 38 weeks.
Balancing work and twins is no easy
feat, but they have amazing support.
Lynmarie laughingly says that while
it may take a village to raise a child, it
takes a sister and bestie like hers to
raise twins. “Chrizaan is a huge part
of the success of raising our children
and keeping the Griffioen household
afloat. I would love a little more metime,
but I aim to build the business
up to the point where I can slip away
for an hour to see my son’s first rugby
game or to be at every ballet rehearsal.
I don’t want to miss anything, but
my business was and will always be
my first baby. I’m so proud of where
we are now. I always knew God had
something special in mind for me.”
She adds that someday she’d like to
travel more, show the twins the world
and be inspired by the textures and
fabrics from various cultures. Her
ideal day would be spent watching
Formula1 with Du Preez, then Taylor
Swift’s Eras Tour with her sister. Her
perfect day would end on a wine
farm, sipping wine with her parents,
laughing and listening to 80s music.
“For now, I’m enjoying every second
of my twins.” she smiles. “But seriously,
wouldn’t that be the most amazing
day ever?”

CONNECT TO MORE FAMILY TIME
info@crafthomes.co.za
08600 CRAFT (27238)
3 Bedroom houses from R 2 065 000
4 Bedroom houses from R 2 250 000
2 Alpha Street, Orchard View, Mbombela
RM_CRA0413M

Life through an
indigo lens
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY
Troyden’s diagnosis was followed
with a very vague explanation about
autism and how the family would
face the future. “I started reading
more about autism and researching
how this happens, the causes, natural
cures, effective teaching ways as
well as behaviours, sensory overload,
stimulation and nutrition, to name
but a few,” says Cindy. “Thankfully, my
husband Paul and I are gifted with
a child that is physically sound and
healthy in every other sense, and
we are blessed to have a child that
is happy most of the time when his
anxiety is kept in check and we don’t
upset routines too much.”
Cindy describes their path as one of
learning, loving and getting to be
taught by her child, which in itself is
a gift. It’s seeing life from a different
angle and gaining a new perspective
of what life is all about - like the stars,
sun and moon all being aligned,
and suddenly making sense of the
universe. “Sure,” she smiles, “it isn’t the
life we imagined. Troyden’s autism
threw us a curveball. But it is a life we
never could have imagined. Autism
is a different aptitude in an imperfect
world. It is known as a disability, but
as parents, we looked at his abilities
and at what we can learn through our
child who was lent to us.”
While researching what steps to take
to better her son’s quality of life, Cindy
found that parents worldwide were
facing the same issues she did. “We
soon realised that in our community,
there is minimal immediate and
future support for children on the
autism spectrum. This also means
that our child would have no place
to reach his highest potential, just
like other children on the spectrum
14 Get It Lowveld April 2024
April is Autism Awareness Month, and Get it
chatted to mum Cindy Coetzee, whose son
Troyden was diagnosed with full-spectrum ASD
(Autism Spectrum Disorder) in April 2016.
Hayley Best of Let’s Talk Autism UK and Cindy Coetzee of Indigo Smiles
Autism Foundation

in the Lowveld. One question kept
raising itself continuously; what would
happen if the caregivers of the person
with ASD were no longer there to take
care of them?” This is where Indigo
Smiles Autism Foundation - Non-Profit
Company comes in. It was started
to ensure that every child or person
living with autism and/or special needs
with autistic traits can receive the lifechanging
treatments and therapies
they require to live self-sustaining,
meaningful lives as well as reach their
potential and be included as valuable
members of their communities.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a
neurological disorder and may
improve with alternative education
and healing methods as well as, and in
conjunction with, specific therapies. It
affects how a person communicates,
behaves and interacts with others. It
impacts their learning styles, auditory
and sensory input and how they see
the world around them. Autism is also
known as a ‘spectrum’ disorder, as it
refers to a range of conditions and
wide variation in the type and severity
of symptoms people experience.
“These conditions include ADHD, ADD,
OCD, Sensory Processing Disorder,
auditory disorders, epilepsy, social
difficulties and more,” Cindy explains.
“Many autism families have no options
or solutions available to them within
our community. Some people can live
relatively everyday lives; others will
Troyden with his dad, Paul Coetzee
require a lifetime of specialist support
at different times in their lives and
may need crisis intervention from
time to time.” Inspired by Troy, Cindy
developed House of Troy, an optimal
wellness and nutritional programme
for children on the autism spectrum.
House of Troy offers insight into
essential nutritional components to
learn more as a family about healthier
options available to parents.
The constraints the current education
system puts on certain individuals are
somewhat counterintuitive to their
ability to absorb information and
What are some of the early signs and symptoms of
autism that parents and caregivers can look for
• No or limited eye contact • Little awareness of others around them and
strong preference for personal space • No sense of fear or danger, which
is very dangerous for a child • Have difficulties in social connections and
interactions with others • Non-verbal, delayed and unusual speech patterns,
making communication difficult • Difficulty understanding facial expressions
and emotions of others • Difficulties in using or understanding gestures or
having to wait for their turn • Repetitive speech and stimming • Self-injurious
behaviour like head-banging, kicking, scratching or biting • Unusual habits
like rocking, tippy toes and hand-flapping • Playing with toys in a different
way than was intended, for instance, spinning wheels • Highly fixated on
unusual objects • Struggling to follow directions or instructions • Abnormal
sleeping patterns • Changes in routine or the environment may cause distress
or anxiety • May not react to their name or have minimal reaction to verbal
input, and may act as though they don’t hear • Sudden laughing or crying
for no apparent reason • Uneven gross or fine motor skills • Feeding and
nutritional challenges • Unusual sensitivity to senses of touch, taste, sight,
hearing and/or smell.
process knowledge. In other words,
not all of us learn in the same way.
Autism, though not a new diagnosis,
is an incredibly diverse disability and
is rapidly becoming more prevalent
worldwide. “Children with autism and
hyperactivity display symptoms of
overactiveness, disruptive behaviours;
they can’t relax and have a lack of
focus and concentration, all of which
affect a regular classroom setting. They
also become too stressed to learn if
overloaded with information and faced
with choices, change and unsettled
routines. This doesn’t create progress
within a child; it creates regression,
anxiety and other behaviour-related
problems.”
No one really knows what causes
autism, but according to the World
Health Organization, currently, one in
160 children is diagnosed worldwide.
“Sadly,” Cindy says, “in developing
countries, the numbers are much
higher at one in 50, and each year the
statistics show an increase of children
on the autism spectrum. This raises a
lot of red flags, which we should be
paying attention to. We believe that
every child with autism is unique, and
entitled to receive the correct support
and therapies they require to cope
with the world and develop the skills
necessary to lead self-sustainable lives.”
Details: www.isafoundation.org.za, www.
houseoftroy.co.za or contact Cindy at
chefcindy08@gmail.com
April 2024 Get It Lowveld 15

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with a personal touch
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surgery, further enhancing the
standard of care for hip replacement
patients.
Beyond specialised ophthalmic
and orthopaedic surgery, Busamed
Lowveld Private Hospital provides
a comprehensive range of surgical
treatments, including dermatology,
ear, nose and throat surgery, general
surgery, gynaecological surgery,
maxillofacial surgery, urology,
neurosurgery and paediatric surgery.
From the moment you enter our
doors, you will be greeted by our
warm and compassionate staff,
dedicated to your well-being. Every
Dr Alex Kuhn and Dr Dimitri Dimitriou during the ROSA demonstration at
Busamed Lowveld Private Hospital
aspect of our hospital has been designed
to create an environment conducive to
healing and rapid recovery.
By embodying our core values of
accountability, friendliness, respect,
integrity and quality care in everything
we do, Busamed Lowveld Private
Hospital offers patients and their families
the Ultimate Busamed Experience:
Premium Care with a Personal Touch.
Details:
Tel: 013 752 7576
Email: blphinfo@busamed.co.za
Website: www.busamed.co.za/lowveld

RM_SPA0413M

Eating on a budget is a common challenge that many families face in today’s fastpaced,
cash-strapped world. Various factors such as economic pressures and lifestyle
changes require us taking a closer look at our food expenditure, and how to get more
bang for our buck.
Making informed choices about
what food you choose to purchase
is a crucial step towards achieving
a balanced and budget-conscious
lifestyle. Thinking out of the box is
key here - with rising living costs and
economic uncertainties, maintaining
a budget for essentials like food
becomes imperative. But that doesn’t
mean meals have to be boring or
unappetising.
20 Get It Lowveld April 2024
Eating on a budget also doesn’t
have to mean sacrificing nutrition.
It encourages individuals to make
mindful food choices, often leading to
healthier options and home-cooked
meals. This can have long-term
benefits for the overall well-being of
the whole family, from spending
more time together prepping, cooking
or eating meals, to getting outside
into the fresh air and doing a spot
of gardening.
Another advantage is that when on
a budget, we tend to plan meals
more efficiently, reducing the
likelihood of food waste. This not only
saves money, but also contributes
to promoting environmental
sustainability. The secret to successful
budget shopping is to save money
without compromising on nutrition
or taste.

Here are a few ideas to help you eat well on a budget:
Cook at home
Dining out can quickly inflate food expenses. Cooking at home not only saves
money, but also provides greater control over ingredients, ensuring healthier
options and more personalised meals. And you know exactly what is going into
your food, as opposed to processed and/or preservative-laden options.
Consider no-name brands
Generic or store-brand products often offer a more economical alternative to
big name brands without compromising on quality. Comparing prices and
trying different brands can uncover hidden gems that align with your budget
constraints.
Use frozen and canned foods
Frozen fruits and vegetables and canned goods can be more affordable than
fresh produce, and they have a longer shelf life. Not only do they retain their
nutritional value, they also make meal preparation that much easier.
Embrace seasonal produce
Fruits and vegetables in season are not only fresher, but also more budgetfriendly.
Local farmers markets are excellent places to find seasonal produce at
reasonable prices, and the Lowveld is jam-packed with an amazing variety of fruit
and veggies.
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY
Plan in advance
Planning meals in advance is the
foundation of budget-friendly
eating. It allows you to create a
shopping list based on needed
ingredients, preventing impulse
purchases and reducing the
risk of overspending. Soups
are usually budget-friendly,
nutritious and easy to make,
and often require essential store
cupboard ingredients.
Set grocery money aside
Allocating a specific amount to
groceries helps towards better
financial planning and also helps you
to avoid the previously mentioned
impulse-buying and daily trips for
‘milk and bread’ that invariably tend
to be an assortment of other items
as well.
087 057 3383
www.mozambik.co.za
Shop 6, De Hallen
104 Ferreira St, Nelspruit
MOZA0413NC

Buy in bulk
Purchasing staples like rice, pasta and legumes in bulk can lead to
significant cost savings. Many stores offer discounts on bulk purchases,
and these items have long shelf lives, minimising the risk of spoilage.
Seeds and nuts can also be purchased in bulk.
Pack lunches
Bringing home-made lunches
(and breakfast jars) to work or
school is a simple yet effective way
to save money. It also allows for
healthier food choices compared
to many restaurant options.
Limit convenience foods
Pre-packaged and convenience foods
often come with a higher price tag.
Opting for whole ingredients and
preparing meals from scratch can be
more economical in the long run, not
to mention much better for you.
Join rewards programmes
Many grocery stores offer loyalty
programmes that provide discounts or
cash back on purchases. Joining these
programmes can lead to substantial
savings over time on top of monthly or
weekly specials.
Plan ahead
Plan your meals ahead of time. This
helps you to adapt recipes and plan
according to your budget, family needs
(for example specific diets such as
diabetic, gluten or lactose intolerant or
vegan) and tastes. Learn how to stretch
recipes and substitute ingredients for
more cost-effective options if possible.
Shop with a list
Taking a shopping list along when
buying food is a good way to prevent
you from succumbing to impulsebuying,
as well as making sure you
stock up on essentials instead of going
back and forth to the shop every
second day.
Keep an eye out for sales
and discount items
Keeping an eye on sales,
discounts and promotions is
a savvy way to cut down on
food expenses. Stocking up on
non-perishable items can be
particularly cost-effective.
Eating on a budget is a practical and sustainable approach to managing
household expenses, a necessity in today’s economic climate. By incorporating
mindful practices like meal planning, bulk buying and embracing cost-effective
alternatives, you can not only save money, but also make healthier choices and
reduce your environmental impact.
22 Get It Lowveld April 2024
Grow a garden!
Growing your own fruits,
vegetables and herbs isn’t as
difficult as you think and is an
excellent way to eat fresh, healthy
produce and save money. If
vegetable gardening is new to
you, or if space is an issue, start
small with a few herbs in pots
on the windowsill. Get the kids
involved too. It’s a wonderful
experience for them to learn
to grow their own and very
rewarding.

Compiled by: Kym Argo
Avocado toast with microgreens,
pistachios, and parmesan
The true origins of avocado toast may
never be ascertained, but the nowubiquitous
breakfast favourite appears to
have started in Australia in 1993 when a
Sydney chef put it on his menu. However,
Southern Californians who grew up in
the 1950s can attest to it being a part of
their food world long before its global
popularity. Today, the toast has gone
well beyond the basic crushed avocado,
salt, and pepper to just about anything a
cook fancies. Pistachios, for one, make an
excellent topping: colourful, flavourful, and
crunchy. Some salty cheese and a sprinkle
of microgreens are added here, but the
only real limit is the creator’s imagination.
You’ll need: 2 slices whole-grain bread;
1 avocado; 1/4 tsp fine sea salt; 1/4 tsp
freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup
(15 g) microgreens; 1/3 cup (45 g)
pistachios, coarsely chopped; 1/2 cup
(55 g) shaved Parmesan cheese
To make: Toast the bread slices in a toaster
or toaster oven, then place each slice
on a plate.
With a sharp knife, cut the avocado in
half. Carefully remove the pit, prying
it away with the tip of the knife. With
each avocado half still in its skin, cut it
lengthwise into slices 12mm thick, being
careful not to pierce the skin. Slide the
knife between the flesh and the skin of
an avocado half to remove the slices and
arrange slices on a piece of toast. Repeat
with the remaining avocado half, topping
the second piece of toast.
Sprinkle the avocado with the salt and
pepper, followed by the microgreens and
pistachios. Top with the cheese and serve.
Variations:
• Mashed avocado, pomegranate
arils (seeds), crumbled feta cheese,
chopped pistachios
• Mashed avocado, smoked salmon slices,
capers, goat cheese, fresh dill sprigs,
chopped pistachios
• Cubed avocado, chopped hardcooked
egg, bay shrimp, radish slices,
chopped pistachios
• Cubed avocado, cherry tomato halves,
crisp bacon crumbles or slices, fresh
marjoram leaves, chopped pistachios
• Sliced avocado, tomato slices,
burrata cheese, fresh basil leaves,
chopped pistachios
avo
&
pistachio
advertorial
Pistachio - Savory and Sweet
Recipes Inspired by World
Cuisines by Barbara Bryant
and Georgeanne Brennan is
a celebration of the striking
flavour of the this jewel of nuts
- with inspiration from Turkey,
Iran, Afghanistan and North
Africa to Italy, Greece, Spain
and France. From simple grilled
asparagus with sieved egg
and pistachio oil vinaigrette, to
lime cheesecake with pistachio
crust, it’s dish after dish after
dish with pistachios taking
centre stage. Abrams, R755

advertorial
The BUCO heartbeat
Well-known in the Lowveld for not only their quality building supplies, but their commitment to the
community at large, BUCO is a group of stores in the Lowveld and Highveld regions of Mpumalanga
and Limpopo.
Steve du Toit , Pottie Potgieter and Wayne Opperman

Members of region 5
BUCO’s history dates back 45 years,
which is when the first parent store
was opened. “We started building up
this region from 1997,” explains Pottie
Potgieter, the regional operations
manager, “but the story actually
goes back a lot further than that. We
opened the first parent store in 1980,
and over the years, the family grew to
twelve. Currently, the stores belong to
the Building Company, which in turn
belongs to the Pepkor Group.”
BUCO has come a long way since
those early days. A one-stop shop
for building supplies, the company’s
role in the community has grown
in a number of directions, from
community-based initiatives to
interior decor and gardening. In
February 2024, the eastern regions’
stores were named the best within the
Building Company, an achievement
calculated not only specifically in
terms of nett profit, but also fixed
assets and stocks. “The company’s aim
is to always strive to be better - better
than the opposition and better than
yesterday,” he adds.
Pottie goes on to say that the best part
about it is that each store’s branch
manager is an individual entrepreneur.
“Most of them have fifteen or more
years of experience in the industry. We
believe the reason for the company’s
success under the extremely difficult
economic times we currently face
is due to the incredible teamwork
and camaraderie between these
employees. In addition, we believe
in turning each and every threat
into an opportunity - and we firmly
believe that no matter how big
or how small, there is always an
opportunity.”
Staying humble in their convictions,
Pottie maintains that BUCO’s eastern
region will always give their absolute
best, both for their employees and
for their fellow man. “It is such a great
honour to have been appointed as
the best region within this remarkable
company,” he smiles, “and it is an
accolade we share with each and
every one of our clients and suppliers.”

Making a difference,
ONE BRICK AT A TIME
Bhuti Chester Themba is becoming a bit of a mover and shaker in
local circles.
The founder of Revived Generation
NPC, a non-profit recently established
to benefit local communities, Bhuti’s
passion is to build a multipurpose
centre in Phumlani/Msholozi Village
in Rocky Drift, to offer support to the
people of the local community. “The
dream is that the facilities have a
multipurpose aim, to accommodate
community needs and enhance
service delivery, offer library services,
counselling, gender-based violence
programmes and even a recording
studio to showcase local talent,”
Bhuti says.
‘I have always
had an innate
calling to work
with and help
various people’
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY
Bhuti Chester Themba
26 Get It Lowveld April 2024
“Other community event related
projects in the pipeline include
workshops, business seminars,
rehearsal rooms and a social market
facility to showcase locally produced
arts and crafts to ultimately offer to
the tourist market.”
Bhuti obtained his honours degree
in sociology of development at the
University of Zululand, and completed
coursework for his master’s in public
management at TUT, focusing on the
active participation of municipalities
concerning service delivery. A true
ambassador for local change, Bhuti
has vast experience in the private and
public sectors and has worked closely
with community programmes that

primarily affect women, children and
people with disabilities.
The idea of creating a safe space for
people goes hand in hand with Bhuti’s
dream when he was growing up,
which was to be a social worker. “I have
always had an innate calling to work
with and help various people at all
levels,” he explains, “and this is the ideal
way to make that dream a reality. There
is a lot of hardship on ground level in
the area. High levels of unemployment
and poverty are prevalent in these
communities, and we need to help
wherever we can.” One of Bhuti’s recent
success stories is a group of children
he discovered while out walking in a
section of Msholozi Village.
“It was an extremely hot day, and the
kids were swimming in the river. Not
all of them can swim, and there were
other dangers as well. On this occasion,
one of the children spotted a snake
in the riverbed, so they evacuated the
water and ran away. I realised this was
an opportunity for another project,
one in which I could help the kids and
get the community involved at the
same time. I chatted to the owner of a
The project construction site
local private swimming pool and asked
her if I could bring about 30 kids to
the pool every month. We agreed on
a rate, which I pay for, and I also found
sponsors for food, sweets and snacks,
so that the kids can spend the whole
day playing and enjoying themselves.”
The multipurpose centre project is
currently under way and progressing
nicely. “We have started with the
building of the small meeting hall,
which will cater for approximately 500
people, as well as the two guardrooms,”
he explains. “We are in the process
of looking for sponsors for building
cement to complete the first phase
of the project, and the next phase is
to build a wall around the premises.
It is baby steps at the moment, but
we will get there. Our core mission at
the moment is to partner with various
corporates regarding construction
from the ground up. There is quite
a lot we need to ultimately get the
project off the ground, which is where
corporate sponsorship will come in,
especially in the line of bricks, cement,
sound equipment, steel poles, roof
sheeting, computer equipment, chairs,
tables, etc.”
At the end of the day, everyone needs
to do their part in making the world a
better place for the less fortunate, and
as they say, it takes a village. Not only
to raise a child, but to strengthen a
community and make it a better place
for everyone.
Details: Bhuti Chester Themba on
072 535 5288 or bhutomncaneprojects@
mail.com
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EXT 7 , NELSPRUI T
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Terence de Klerk
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Photo by Mia Louw Creative

GET IT DIRECTORY

Making a splash
If there is one thing we know for sure, it’s that
Mpumalanga has no shortage of amazing
scenery and world-class wonders.
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY
Blyde River Canyon
Think of the Kruger Park, Blyde River
Canyon, God’s Window, the Three
Rondavels, the Echo Caves, the
Sudwala Caves, the Panorama Route,
the Genesis Route, Adam’s Calendar
and the Lowveld National Botanical
Gardens, to mention just a few.
But don’t stop there. Another natural
wonder that is a big drawcard to the
area are the numerous captivating
waterfalls, each one with a unique
story to tell while showcasing the
diverse and breathtaking landscape
that defines our province. Hidden
among lush greenery, Bridal Veil Falls
is a picturesque cascade located
near the town of Sabie. The falls
derive their name from the delicate
way the water drapes over the rocks,
resembling a bride’s veil. The sound
of the falling water and the cool mist
create a serene atmosphere, making
it a popular spot for nature lovers and
photographers alike.
Lisbon Falls is a spectacle not to be
missed. Plummeting from a height of
94m, it is one of the highest waterfalls
in the region. The falls are surrounded
by indigenous vegetation, providing
a stunning contrast to the foamy
white streams. Visitors can take in
the panoramic views from a viewing
platform near the top of the falls,
or take a relatively gentle hike to
30 Get It Lowveld April 2024

Lisbon Falls
Bridal Veil Falls
the base. Resident European miners
named the falls after Portugal’s capital
city during the gold rush.
Adjacent to Lisbon Falls and also en
route to the Blyde River Canyon, Berlin
Falls offers another captivating display
of nature’s beauty. With a similar height
but a distinctive appearance, Berlin
Falls cascades down in a tiered fashion.
The name is derived from the fact
that the falls are located near the old
mining town of Berlin. The synergy
of water, rocks and foliage creates an
awe-inspiring scene, allowing visitors
to connect with the raw power of
nature.
Lone Creek Falls are surrounded
by lush vegetation, and gracefully
descend from a rocky precipice,
creating a mesmerising cascade
that reflects the tranquillity of the
surrounding forest. Adjacent to Lone
Creek, the Horseshoe Falls plunge
into a crystal-clear pool, the unique
horseshoe-shaped formation adding
to its allure.
Named after the Scottish miners who
sought their fortune during the 1870s’
gold rush, Mac Mac Falls is a testament
to the rich history of Mpumalanga.
The falls consist of twin streams that
converge, creating a mesmerising
display as they plunge into a deep
pool below. Surrounded by lush
forests, Mac Mac Falls not only offers a
refreshing retreat, but also a glimpse
into the region’s gold mining heritage.
Mac Mac Pools consist of a series of
rock pools through which the Mac Mac
River passes, many of which are deep
enough to swim in. Visitors can enjoy a
picnic nearby, or go on the nearby 3km
circular Secretary Bird Hike.
While not a traditional waterfall,
Bourke’s Luck Potholes are a geological
wonder resulting from centuries of
swirling water. The confluence of
the Blyde and Treur rivers has carved
cylindrical potholes out of the bedrock,
creating a unique and captivating
landscape. Visitors can explore the
intricate rock formations and marvel at
the forces of erosion that have shaped
this natural masterpiece over time.
As one of the largest canyons in the
world, the Blyde River Canyon is a
breathtaking setting, and no visit to
the waterfalls (or indeed the area) is
complete without seeing this natural
wonder. The canyon offers panoramic
views of towering cliffs, lush vegetation
and the winding Blyde River. While not
a waterfall itself, the canyon enhances
the overall appeal of the region,
providing
Berlin Falls
a dramatic backdrop to the
cascading waters.

Spoil
April
A bottle of gorgeous floral
musky gourmand fragrance ...
Signorina Libera
The new fragrance in the iconic Signorina Fragrance Collection is Signorina Libera
... a vibrant eau de parfum inspired by the upbeat independent attitude of a modern Signorina.
A floral musky gourmand blend with alluring and unexpected notes ... sparkling Velvet Pear and
Calabrian Bergamot mixed with the aromatic freshness of Elemi, Rose Absolute and Plum Nectar,
Italian Orris Butter and Pink Sugar, Cashmere Woods and Ambroxan.
Like a beautiful ray of light, a vivid yellow profile enriches the vivid glass flacon crowned with a
rose gold boule cap and embellished with the unmistakable Vara Bow, created with a sustainable
fabric. #FERRAGAMO #SignorinaLibera. From R1299 from Edgars, Woolworths & Truworths.
To stand in line to win a bottle, visit @getitnationalmagazines on Instagram or Facebook
and follow the prompts. Entries close 25 April.
32 Get It Lowveld April 2024

RM-MOP0413M