The Avenues Estate is on show this weekend, 2 November 2025, three bedroom homes and vacant land available.

Please contact the following agent for more information:
Janine van Greunen 076 200 4482

Rapid growth. Soaring temperatures. Rain-soaked soil. For most, summer brings a surge of garden activity - and with it, the need for consistent upkeep. From compact gardens to large outdoor areas, staying on top of seasonal growth keeps green spaces thriving and manageable. And, with the right equipment, like Husqvarna's range of power tools, maintenance routines become easier, more efficient, and even enjoyable.

Springbok powerhouse, farmer, and keen gardener, Kwagga Smith, shares his go-to tips for summer garden care - from practical routines and water-wise habits to smart tools that make maintenance easier and more efficient.

1. Cleaning

Outdoor surfaces like patios, driveways, paving, flowerpots, and garden furniture tend to collect dirt, algae, and debris during the rainy season. A pressure washer efficiently removes this buildup - just be sure to use a fan nozzle for delicate surfaces and keep a safe distance to ensure a thorough clean without damaging their finish.

2. Watering

Watering early in the morning or later in the afternoon gives plants the best chance to soak up moisture before the heat sets in. The key is consistency: if you water at regular times, roots grow deeper, and plants handle dry spells better. In summer, two to three deep waterings a week usually do the trick, unless it rains. Just keep a closer eye on potted or delicate plants as they dry out faster.

3. Spraying

A sprayer takes the effort out of routine garden care. Whether applying pest treatments or feeding plants with nutrients, it reaches tight spots around pots, raised beds, and edges that are tricky by hand. Targeted spraying saves time, reduces chemical runoff, and prevents overwatering. For best results, work during cooler parts of the day and always test on a small area first to ensure plants respond well, keeping your garden healthy and thriving.

4. Cutting

Got overgrown edges or thick, uneven grass? Depending on the size of your property, a combi brushcutter will make quick work of tough patches, weeds, and rough terrain without hours of effort. It’s ideal for larger or neglected areas that a standard trimmer can’t handle. With optional attachments for edging, hedge trimming, and more, this one tool can tackle multiple jobs, saving you time and energy during seasonal upkeep. And as always, don’t forget your protective gear.

5. Trimming

Thinning dense shrubs improves airflow and allows light to reach all parts of the plant, reducing the risk of fungal growth and keeping plants healthy. A hedge trimmer is ideal for shaping and maintaining neat lines, enabling you to trim plants precisely with less strain. Always remember to first inspect hedges and shrubs for nesting birds or small animals before trimming to protect local wildlife.

6. Planting

If you’re replacing plants or adding new ones, why not go for hardy indigenous varieties like aloes, gazanias, Cape honeysuckle, or plumbago? They’re adapted to local conditions, so generally need less water and care - and they attract bees, butterflies, and sunbirds that help pollinate your garden. Planting a mix that flowers at different times keeps these pollinators around for longer, while also encouraging natural pest control. If you’re not sure where to start, your local nursery can suggest combinations that suit your area.

7. Mulching

Kick off summer by spreading a thin layer of compost to feed the soil, then top it with mulch like bark, leaves, or grass clippings. It keeps soil cool, locks in moisture, and keeps weeds at bay while slowly nourishing your plants. Check your beds now and then and top up the mulch if it’s looking thin. Just remember to keep it a little away from stems and trunks to prevent rot.

“Summer gardening isn’t about doing everything at once; it’s about doing the right things consistently,” says Kwagga. “It’s a bit like rugby: if you focus on the basics, stay in position, and play smart, the results come. Gardening is similar: follow a solid routine, use the right tools, and your garden will thrive,” he concludes. “Work smart, not hard, and enjoy the season.”

For more information on Husqvarna’s outdoor equipment range, visit www.husqvarna.co.za

LOCAL Chocolate Fans AND those who are based OUT OF AFRICA!

A Christmas hamper from our range of Belgian Chocolates and biscuits would make an ideal gift for family and friends within SA!

Enquiries and orders:
Chocolate Sensations Hilton
Whatsapp 0716848026
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Facebook/ChocSenseHilton

Rebecca Meder wrapped up her World Aquatics Swimming World Cup campaign with another bronze medal at the third and final leg of the series in Toronto, Canada over the weekend.

That brought the 23-year-old from KwaZulu-Natal’s total tally to four bronze medals from the three stops.

On Saturday, she produced a strong final 25m to claim third in the 100m breaststroke in Toronto in a time of 1 minute 04.48, just one hundredth of a second ahead of fourth-placed Satomi Suzuki of Japan. The race was won by overall series champion Kate Douglass of the USA in 1:02.93, with Ireland’s Mona McSharry second in 1:03.84

Meder’s other results in Toronto included a fourth place in the 200m breaststroke in 2:18.81, a fifth place in the 200m individual medley in 2:05.83 and sixth place in the 100m individual medley in 58.81 seconds.

That saw her finishing 16th overall in the series.

Speaking afterwards, Meder said she was “very happy” with her performances over the last few weeks.

“I’m really happy to see that I'm becoming more and more competitive against the world's best, and nice to see that I'm racing in events that are stacked with the swimmers that I normally race against,” she said of coming up against the likes of Olympic champion Douglass and world champion sisters Alex and Gretchen Walsh.

After featuring in just one of the three World Cup legs last season, Meder returned this year to contest all three stops.

“Just to be able to do back-to-back racing like that at this level is a first for me. Three legs, you definitely feel it by the third leg, mentally, emotionally, and physically, but it's just made me so hungry to do it again, and to go and compete against these girls more and more,” she explained.

While the World Cup series is raced in 25m pools (short course), Meder will now switch focus to next year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, raced over 50m, where she will be eyeing more podium finishes.

“Up next, the biggest focus is Commonwealth Games next year, of which lots of my competitors, competitors that I was racing now, will be at. So I'm looking forward to racing them again,” she said.

“I obviously wanted to be faster in the last [World Cup] stop and wanted to see if I could break my African record again [in the 200m individual medley], and try and chase that 200 breaststroke time and get that under the 2:18 mark.

“But I’m just super stoked that I was consistent through all three stops, and it just shows that my training has been working, all the hard work that I've been putting in. And to be consistently competitive at that level, is definitely a strength that I can take forward into a world champs and into a Commonwealth Games. So all in all, a good racing and training block done and dusted, and I’m super happy with the results.”

Our Grade 6s kicked off Term 4 with an unforgettable adventure at Gwahumbe Reserve!

From spotting white rhinos on arrival to hiking to Mermaids' Pool, cooking "Chicken in the Sand," and competing in an Amazing Race, every moment was filled with fun and enthusiasm.

Four days without technology, immersed in nature, learning teamwork, and making memories around the campfire. The childhood experience Cowan House is known for!

It’s not every day that the President of the World Rose Society visits your garden, but Brahman Hills, home to luxury accommodation and internationally acclaimed gardens, had the honour of welcoming Mr Sushil Prakash from India on Saturday, 18 October 2025.

The visit formed part of the annual ROSA National Convention, hosted this year by the Midlands Rose Society from 16–18 October. The convention, coordinated by Gail Birss, President of the Federation of Rose Societies of South Africa, included a series of garden tours showcasing the region’s finest floral displays.

“Being chosen as one of ROSA’s garden stops was a true honour,” said Onwaba Gonyora, Director at Brahman Hills. “It’s always deeply rewarding to see visitors’ reactions when they view our gardens for the first time and take in the magic of what our team has created here.”

The day drew an impressive gathering of guests, including members from as far afield as the Western Cape Rose Society and international visitor Rosario de Algorta Carrau from the Uruguayan Rose Society – a noted garden designer in her own right.

Guests were warmly welcomed by Gonyora with a glass of sparkling wine at the entrance to the Moon Gate Garden. Before the guided walk began, renowned landscaper Elizabeth Steyn - one of the morning’s guides - invited everyone to embrace the garden's tranquillity by remaining silent on the walk to fully absorb its beauty. Head Gardener Abongile Majola, together with his fellow guide, then led visitors through the gardens, sharing fascinating insights and anecdotes about their creation. Elizabeth Steyn is also the mother of Tim Steyn, co-author of The Making of a World-Class Garden, a newly launched coffee table book celebrating the Brahman Hills gardens.

The visit concluded with tea and scones being served at the Skyfall Restaurant, after which Gonyora presented Mr Prakash and Ms Carrau with copies of the new book as a memento of their visit. The gardens left a lasting impression on these two overseas guests, with Ms Carrau noting that she had travelled the world and never seen anything like it, while Mr Prakash expressed his admiration and said he would encourage garden enthusiasts across the globe to visit Brahman Hills during his future travels.

Reflecting on the day, Gonyora described it as “a true privilege to share the passion and creativity that define Brahman Hills - and to witness the joy our gardens inspire in everyone who visits.”

Pictured here: Vivienne Black, President of the Federation of Rose Societies of South Africa; Rosario de Algorta Carrau, Uruguayan Rose Society;Onwaba Gonyora, Director of Brahman Hills; Sushil Prakash, President of the World Rose Society; and Gail Birss.

We offer high-quality printing for your ID and Passport photos, cherished holiday snaps, and professional infographs. No long queues!

Bring your files on a memory stick, micro SD card, or simply Email or WhatsApp us your pictures. We print them while you wait!

Sizes range from: Standard ID/Passport pics all the way up to our Big Set (which includes one A3, one A4, and two A5 prints) for all your framing needs.

Our friendly and professional team provides:
Courier Service | Packaging | Office Supplies | Business Services & more...

Visit PostNet Hilton soon at 39 Hilton Avenue.

Call 086 006 1004

WhatsApp 081 405 0768

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The Midlands Rose Society Hosts the National Rose Convention at Hebron Haven Hotel.

This past weekend, the Midlands Rose Society proudly hosted the South African National Rose Convention right here at Hebron Haven Hotel — a joyful celebration of roses, creativity, and community in full bloom.

We were honoured to welcome uMngeni-uHowick Mayor Chris Pappas, who officially opened the event, and to hear from our very own Sally Earle, who shared stories of her travels and her deep passion for gardens and roses.

Our halls were transformed into a floral wonderland — bursting with colour, fragrance, and exquisite arrangements that truly captured the spirit of the occasion.

A heartfelt thank-you to the Midlands Rose Society for choosing to host this prestigious national event with us at Hebron Haven. It was an absolute pleasure to be part of such a beautiful and inspiring gathering.

Hebron Haven Hotel — where gardens grow and people gather.

Send a piece of home to your loved ones scattered around the globe this holiday season!

These aren't just ornaments—they are a stunning African-inspired Christmas Story. Each character is crafted with brilliant Glass Fire Gems, giving them an incredible sparkle that catches the light like a thousand memories of Africa.

And the best part? Each top tier set comes with its very own handcrafted, sparkling beaded wire Christmas tree!

This is more than a gift; it's the most amazing memento of our beautiful country. Give your homesick family a treasure that glows with the warmth and spirit of Africa.

Why You'll Love This Gift:
A Story in Every Gem: Brilliant glass fire gems catch the light and add an exquisite shimmer.

Complete Set: Includes the full twelve characters and their unique beaded wire tree, when you choose to buy the top tier option at R2250.

The Perfect Sentiment: The ultimate gift for family around the globe missing home this Christmas.

Our African version of The 12 Days of Christmas...

On the 1st day of Christmas
my true love gave to me:
A Guineafowl in a Thorn Tree
On the 2nd day: 2 Buffaloes Grazing
On the 3rd day: 3 Monkeys Playing
On the 4th day: 4 Roaring Lions
On the 5th day: 5 Ele-e-phants
On the 6th day: 6 Zebras Trotting
On the 7th day: 7 Hippos Yawning
On the 8th day: 8 Wild Dogs Running
On the 9th day: 9 Owls Hooting
On the 10th day: 10 Rhinos Charging
On the 11th day: 11 Warthogs Digging
On the 12th day: 12 Giraffes Necking

Orders are open NOW for Glass Cuttings African Christmas Set.

2025 PRICING
A full set with tree is R2250
A full set without tree is R1900
Individual animals are R180 each

Limited availability | Orders close on 7 November 2025

Call/WhatsApp 082 254 4798

Let the kids unleash their spooky creative powers at our Halloween Craft Classes this Saturday, 1 November. There are two options to choose from - pumpkin painting or potion making. Booking is essential!

To book a spot contact Carla on 076 997 7486.

Both workshops will take place inside @imaginethatkidsplayvillage at The Quarry Centre, Hilton Avenue.

“I was proudly crowned Mrs North Coast KZN 2025 at the Miss North Coast KZN pageant on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at The Capital Hotel, Zimbali Estate. This title is a special milestone and a call to action.

Over the next year, I will use this platform to launch a national initiative collaborating with local self-defence organisations. My primary goal is to host workshops across South Africa to equip women with the skills and confidence needed for self-protection.

I firmly believe in the ripple effect: empowering one woman creates a chain reaction of knowledge sharing. I have already begun discussions with FLAG Academy in Waterfall, where I completed my training, to brainstorm the national roll-out. I strongly encourage other organisations to join this collaborative effort to maximize our impact.

Professionally, I thrive as a Business Development Specialist, creating opportunities and building connections. My personal passions range from belly dance, yoga and meditation to the thrill of hunting and the quiet of a good book. I live by the belief that we are all designed to grow and become better versions of ourselves daily.

At 32, I challenged myself to '32 new things before 33,' a journey that has already brought incredible growth. Highlights include winning this title and becoming a finalist for Pageants SA - Ms Universal SA 2026.

This crown is a responsibility to give back, to inspire, and to create real change. My core values are compassion and lifting others up, and my mission is to make a meaningful difference through action, empowerment, and community.” Says Genevieve Hayward.

Midlands raised, Genevieve was schooled at Clarendon Primary School and then at The Wykeham Collegiate, she currently works at Crickmay & Associates in Hilton.

Genevieve revealed her preferred Hilton gem, “It has to be Napoli, the charming little pizzeria tucked behind Millstone in Hilton. My fiancé and I went there for a date night and absolutely fell in love with it. Their pizza bases are so light and fluffy, the toppings are unique and flavourful, and the whole restaurant just has this warm, cosy atmosphere that makes you feel at home. My go-to drink there is their Limoncello - it’s the perfect touch to end a meal.”

Looking at the future Genevieve admits that the pageant bug has bitten. She plans to take part in as many pageants as possible to maximise her personal grow and connect with more incredible women. In the short term, her next adventure will be in Pretoria in March 2026, where she will be competing as a finalist for Ms Universal South Africa 2026 through Pageants SA. Longterm, she hopes that if all her plans go well, she may one day step onto the Mrs South Africa stage.

SECRETS AND SURPRISES: A CELEBRATION OF CREATIVITY

“Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.” – Scott Adams

The St Anne’s Matric Art Exhibition evening was a celebration of colour, technique, and expression. It showcased our girls’ complete bodies of work alongside their final examination drawings, all thoughtfully created under the theme ‘Secrets and Surprises’. Each piece reflected months of exploration, experimentation, and personal growth, capturing the essence of the theme in unique and inspiring ways.

We were privileged to welcome guest speaker Mr Brent Dodd, a renowned international artist and Art Educator from Maritzburg College, who shared inspiring insights on the culmination of a creative journey and the boundless potential of artistic growth.

During the evening, Mrs Ayanda Siwila expressed heartfelt appreciation to Mrs Monique van Deventer for her warmth, friendship, and 14 years of outstanding service in the St Anne’s Art Department. She wished her every success as she embarks on an exciting new chapter in Art Therapy studies.

The exhibition will remain open for viewing until the end of term.

It’s hard to believe, but our Summer Sale is just around the corner! It feels like the Spring Sale was only yesterday, yet here we are—almost two months later, with the nursery in full bloom and looking fantastic.

We’d love for you to join us, to take a walk through the nursery and see what catches your eye at our annual Summer Sale. You’ll find hydrangeas, roses, statice, and many other beautiful plants marked down for the occasion.

To make the weekend even more special, we’re thrilled to welcome the Pietermaritzburg Bonsai Society from Friday, 24 October - Sunday, 26 October. They’ll be displaying a stunning collection of bonsai trees and sharing their passion for this fascinating art form.

Sale Details
Dates: Friday, 24 October – Tuesday, 28 October
Hours: 9am – 4pm daily, except Sunday 9am-2pm
Discounts: Minimum of 10% off select plants

And as a thank you for being part of our mailing list, you’ll enjoy exclusive early access to the sale on Thursday, 23 October.

We can’t wait to see you at the nursery and share a little summer colour with you!

THE BENEFITS OF OZONE
• Stimulates the mitochondria in the cells more efficiently
• Reduces inflammation
• Modulates the immune system
• Increases oxygen uptake in the cells
• Improves blood circulation & oxygen utilization
• Purifies the blood and lymph
• Stimulates the production of white blood cells. These cells protect the body from viruses, bacteria, fungi and cancer. Deprived of oxygen, these cells malfunction.
• Increases flexibility and elasticity of red blood cells. The increase in flexibility of the RBC’s allows oxygen levels to stay elevated for days, even weeks after treatment
• Stimulates production of protective cell enzymes
• Normalizes hormone and enzyme production
• Oxidizes toxins, facilitating their excretion
• “Ozone is alkalinizing. Typically, patients with any chronic disease are very acidic. Alkalinize tissue will be beneficial.
• Ozone kick-starts antioxidant buffering systems. You can’t do that with antioxidants. You can support already existing buffering systems, but you can’t induce them.

In today’s hyper-connected world, productivity has become the holy grail of business success. Inbox zero. Calendar blocks. Pomodoro timers. We’ve built an entire economy around optimising our to-do lists, but are we actually building anything that lasts?

Or are we just busy?

As a leadership strategist working with high-performing founders, corporate execs, and digital creators, Jacqueline van Rooijen, Founder and Director of Ycagel Consulting, says, “I’ve seen firsthand how easily ‘doing more’ becomes a disguise for deeper issues - lack of clarity, fear of failure, or misaligned purpose.”

She unpacks the real issue behind the ‘productivity obsession’and explores a more sustainable model for modern leadership.

The Myth of "Maximum Output"

The glorification of the hustle culture has conditioned us to believe that output equals impact. But the truth is, most people do not burn out from doing too much; they’re burnt out from doing too much of the wrong thing.

Here’s the wake-up call: efficiency doesn’t matter if you’re headed in the wrong direction.

Research from McKinsey & Company shows that 80% of executives believe their current business models are at risk of disruption. Yet only 6% feel they’ve fully transformed their organisations. Why? Because they're stuck in reactive cycles - responding, performing, optimising - but rarely recalibrating.

What High-Impact Leaders Do Differently

“The most successful leaders I’ve coached share one trait: strategic stillness,” notes van Rooijen. “They know how to pause long enough to discern what matters most. They don’t chase every opportunity. They don’t conflate activity with alignment.”

“Instead,” she says, “they practice these three things”:

1. Purposeful Planning Over Performance Metrics

They lead with ‘What’s worth doing?’ rather than focusing on ‘What needs doing?’ This subtle shift changes everything - from hiring decisions to brand messaging to personal energy management.

2. Deep Work Over Constant Connectivity

Leaders who build enduring businesses block time not just for tasks, but for thinking. Not scrolling. Not reacting. But white space for vision, strategy, and values-aligned innovation.

3. Legacy-Driven Leadership

They lead with the end in mind - not just the quarter. This doesn't mean neglecting short-term wins, but rather anchoring every action in a deeper, long-term mission.

The Purpose-Led Business Edge

“As an entrepreneur - here’s where I offer a different lens,” van Rooijen adds. “I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about strategy; it’s purpose-led. When your decisions are connected to a mission or purpose, your choices become smarter and more strategically aligned. You don’t need to manufacture clarity either when purpose guides the way.

This isn’t about ideology. It’s about alignment: when you build from purpose, you lead differently.”

The Real Productivity Hack?

Before you download another productivity app or time-block your life into oblivion…pause.

Ask yourself: “Am I building something that matters, or just managing the noise?”

“Sustainable success doesn’t come from doing more,’ van Rooijen concludes, “It comes from discerning what must be done - and having the courage to say no to everything else.”

Productivity is a tool. Purpose is the compass.

Choose wisely.

Grace College Achievement Spotlight!

A huge congratulations to Kiara, who recently competed in the SA Biathle Championships and has proudly qualified for the World Biathle Championship!

This year’s World Biathle Championship will be held in Mossel Bay from 8–13 December 2025, and Kiara will be representing Grace College and South Africa on the world stage!

Kiara is currently raising funds to make this incredible opportunity a reality. If you’d like to support her journey, please visit her BackaBuddy page below:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/lets-get-kiara-to-the-biathle-world-championship

Let’s rally behind her and show her what #TheGraceWay truly means!

What an incredible line-up!

Suits of Armour, Roly Struckmeyer & Barry Downard, and Bridgitt Leahy - all on one night!

Where can you meet with friends, and enjoy great music in a beautiful environment with roaring fires, hearty food, and a cash bar – all for just R50? Spring evenings in the hills are alive with music - and while the nights are warming, we’ll still have the fires lit and the welcome waiting. Come join us for another night of heartfelt performances, local flavour, and the unique magic of MiTH.

MiTH – 22 October 2025

Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm

Entrance: R50.00 (Cash or Zapper at the Door)

Info: 082 331 7271

 

*8:45pm – Suits of Armour*

Formed in 2023 by singer-songwriters Melanie Nash and James Robertson, Suits of Armour is a powerful male-female duo whose music is both vulnerable and confident, intimate yet anthemic.

Melanie, a seasoned performer and teacher with a velvet-smooth voice, released her debut solo album in 2011 and has graced stages and festivals across South Africa. Inspired by her mother and artists like Cat Stevens and Fleetwood Mac, her heartfelt approach to songwriting forms the foundation of the duo’s sound.

James - also known for his solo work as James Edward - has enjoyed chart success since the early 2000s, including a No.1 hit on 5FM and a career highlight opening for Bryan Adams. His rock roots and instinctive storytelling perfectly complement Melanie’s folk-infused melodies.

Their name, Suits of Armour, reflects the paradox of being artists: exposed yet shielded. “Like a soldier going into battle, performing our own songs makes us feel both strong and vulnerable,” they explain. Formed during a time of personal upheaval for both artists, the name became symbolic of resilience, truth, and the power of music to heal.

*7:35pm – Roly Struckmeyer and Barry Downard*

A fixture on the KZN music scene since the late ’80s, Pietermaritzburg-born guitarist and vocalist Roly Struckmeyer began playing at age seven and has performed with Wonderboom, Landscape Prayers, and Syd Kitchen, as well as bands like Perez, No Fly Zone, and Rustic Spring. His rich experience and soulful acoustic style make him a Midlands favourite.

Barry Downard, once a professional drummer who gigged and held hotel residencies, took time away to pursue a career in photography, art direction, and metalwork sculpture. Recently, he’s returned to music, building his own percussion setup and teaming up with Roly to rekindle his rhythm roots. His motto? “It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing.” Together, Roly and Barry bring an infectious energy and creative spark to every MiTH stage.

*7:00pm – Bridgitt Leahy*

An acoustic artist with a passion for indie, folk, alternative, and country, Bridgitt Leahy draws inspiration from the storytelling heart of these genres. Growing up in the small town of Creighton, she was surrounded by her father’s singing, which sparked her musical journey at 15. Whether performing original songs or stripped-back covers, Bridgitt connects with her audience through emotion, authenticity, and the simple magic of a voice and a guitar.

ABOUT MiTH

KZN Midlands’ favourite music venue! MiTH is a platform for beginners, pros, and music lovers to celebrate the joy of music. Every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Hilton. Food and soft drinks for sale. Cash bar available. Info: 082 331 7271. Visit www.mith.co.za for more info or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to perform.

DIRECTIONS TO MiTH

Take the N3 to Hilton. Turn into Hilton Village and drive 5.2km along Hilton Avenue, which becomes Dennis Shepstone Drive. Look for Knoll Drive on your right; the entrance to MiTH is the second left into The Knoll Historic Guest Farm.