This is going to be a polarising one. But it’s been on our hearts for a while now.

There’s been a lot of conversation about being present for euthanasia. And a lot of judgement around it too.

We don’t stand for that.

Because saying goodbye is one of the hardest decisions you’ll ever make. It’s also a deeply personal one.

And how you handle it? That’s for you to decide.

Grief doesn’t look the same for everyone.

Some people need to stay.

Some people simply can’t.

Not because they don’t love their pet, but because they love them so much it feels unbearable.
And we’re not here to decide what your grief should look like. We’re here to support you through it. Without judgement. Without pressure.

And if you can’t be there, please know this:
Your pet will not be alone.

We’ll be there. Speaking softly and holding them tightly. Making sure their last moments are peaceful and full of love. Because they matter to us too.

There is no “right way” to say goodbye. Only your way.

And that’s enough.

Hey Hilton community,

From all of us at LivPadel Hilton, we’d like to wish you and your families a happy (belated) Easter. We hope your weekend was filled with great moments, good company, and plenty of love. Thank you for the continued support — it truly means the world to us as we keep growing this amazing padel community together.

If you’re looking to shake off the Easter chocolate and get back into the swing of things, there’s no better place to be than right here at LivPadel Hilton. We’re bringing you padel-crazy fun, an unbeatable atmosphere, and some seriously exciting deals that make it easier than ever to get on court. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, our courts are always buzzing with energy, laughter, and friendly competition.

One of the best ways to stay connected and make the most of everything happening at the club is by joining our LivPadel Hilton WhatsApp Group It’s your go-to hub for:

• Match invites & open games
• Latest promotions & specials
• Event and tournament updates
• Community chats and player connections

Join here and never miss out on the action: https://chat.whatsapp.com/EUR5izO4QxJIVGf1HLMbWA?mode=hqrc

Trust us — if you’re not in the group, you’re missing out on some of the best games and opportunities to get involved.

And speaking of what’s coming next… We’ve got plenty in store for the weeks ahead, including exciting tournaments, social events, and competitive leagues that cater to all levels of play. Whether you’re chasing competition or just in it for the vibe, there’s something for everyone at LivPadel Hilton. So keep your eyes peeled — big announcements are on the way!

At its core, LivPadel Hilton is more than just a sports venue — it’s a place where people come together, friendships are built, and memories are made both on and off the court

Find us: LivPadel Hilton

Contact us: 083 796 7793

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tacari's grandparents pictured here, received the prize on his behalf. Congratulations on your well deserved Win. We hope you enjoy your prize. You are our future rising star.

 

The sisters pictured below, Lexi and Kyly, worked really hard on getting their post shared far and wide too. We have decided to give them prizes, for perseverance till the end!

Lexi had 188 likes and Kyly had 211 likes!

 

Thank you to everyone for participating in this competition.

Cape Town played host to a highly successful Bombela Concession Company Artistic Swimming National Championships from 29 March to 1 April, showcasing the country’s top talent across all levels.

The Western Cape emerged as the standout performers, claiming top honours with victories in both senior team routines, as well as the youth combination team event. They also secured gold in the senior technical duet through sisters Sarah and Casey Williams.

Among the individual highlights during the event, the Malan sisters, Jadi and Kenzie, from Central Gauteng Aquatics, delivered a superb performance in the junior technical duet, earning the highest score of the entire championship.

In the senior ranks, visiting Canadians Julia Yakovina and Mariya Gaidzel-Vassiliyeva from CAEM (Montreal) claimed gold in the senior free duet, while Yakovina also topped the podium in the technical solo event ahead of the Western Cape’s Xera Vegter Maharajh.

The senior free solo event saw visiting Guinean Alexandra Mansare-Traore take gold ahead of Vegter Maharajh, in a world-class contest between two athletes who represented their respective countries at last year’s World Aquatics Championships in Singapore.

The Eastern Cape’s Tori Buitendag impressed in the junior ranks, taking home the junior soloist trophy, while Aquanova were crowned the top club in the Level 3 competition.

The event reflected the steady growth of artistic swimming in South Africa, with plenty of impressive performances on display.

Tournament Director Sue Manners-Wood was thrilled with the success of the event, saying: “It was a pleasure to host the South African Artistic Swimming Championships in Cape Town… Generally, I'm very happy with the standard that was shown at the competition. I think most of the swimmers had their best swims, they achieved their PB scores, which is a very good sign.”

Healing the body through mind, body and soul. When we process what is happening in our minds and emotions, we get to deal with a lot that has shown up in the body and in our lives.

Soul Vae offers:
NLP life coaching - dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma healing, chronic pain, personal goals, value alignment

Deep Tissue Massage - relaxing the body and allowing the right and left sides of the brain to reconnect. Excellent for specific areas as well

Add in Laser Therapy for chronic pain, muscle spasm and improved focus and there is a beautiful combination of healing.

TFH balances

Access Bars

Ionic Foot Detox

Sessions available in Hilton and in Pietermaritzburg.

Chat to Sam on 084 407 1107

Living with an autoimmune disease often feels like an endless fight against your own body. Pain, chronic fatigue, inflammation — and the constant worry that your immune system might turn against you again.

Ozone Therapy uses medical-grade ozone (a highly active form of oxygen) to modulate your immune response, reduce chronic inflammation, and enhance your body’s ability to heal naturally. Unlike immune-suppressing drugs, ozone doesn’t shut down your immune system — it helps restore balance.

How Ozone Therapy Works :-
1. Regulates the Immune System: Ozone therapy helps calm an overactive immune response without suppressing it completely. This balance is key for conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and other autoimmune disorders.
2. Reduces Chronic Inflammation: By lowering inflammation, ozone can ease joint pain, swelling, and tissue damage — offering real relief for autoimmune sufferers.
3. Boosts Oxygen & Cellular Healing: Enhanced oxygen delivery improves tissue health and speeds up recovery, combating fatigue and promoting better energy levels.
4. Strengthens Antioxidant Defenses: Ozone stimulates antioxidants like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione, helping your body fight oxidative stress — a major contributor to autoimmune flare-ups.
5. Supports Overall Wellness: From better circulation to enhanced detoxification, ozone therapy supports your entire system for long-term wellness.

 

For more information chat with Lynne 082 828 6778.

South Africa’s premier artistic swimmers are descending on Cape Town this weekend for the Bombela Concession Artistic Swimming National Championships, taking place from 29 March to 1 April.

Among the elite field is top-ranked athlete Xera Vegter Maharajh, who is looking to reclaim the title of national champion after missing last year’s event with a concussion.

Vegter Maharajh, who represented South Africa at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, has had a condensed preparation phase for this year's event. Despite the tight turnaround, the 22-year-old remains confident as she prepares to compete in the Tech Solo, Tech Team, and Free Solo events.

"I started training again for this season at the end of January, so it has been quite a short preparation period," she explained. "I was a bit stressed going into preparation, but overall training has been good and I feel ready for the national championships."

Having struggled with a series of injuries and setbacks, Vegter Maharajh remains very much on the comeback trail.

"I was out of the water for nearly six months after Singapore doing rehab for my shoulder and recovering from a minor surgery. After that, I was excited to get back into training,” she said.

“So far it’s all gone smoothly. I feel a lot stronger this year after all the work I did for my shoulder... I’m more positive about this year since last year was a lot more of a struggle," added the Bachelor of Science student who is majoring in biochemistry, human anatomy and physiology.

Vegter-Maharaj’s training has to be scheduled around her studies.

“Usually I only train artistic swimming two to three times a week, so I try to include as many sessions of other training that fit into my schedule. I try to do gym sessions or normal swim sessions for at least an hour on the other days.”

As for fitting in her studies, she explained: “I try to take each week as a block and focus on finishing as much work as I can within that week, specifically. It helps me focus, stay flexible and get work done so that I can be mentally and physically present at training.”

Vegter Maharaj’s coach is the tournament director for the national championships, Sue Manners-Wood, who emphasised that while there is no Senior World Championships on the calendar this year, the domestic season remains a critical pathway for the country's rising stars. With the 2026 World Aquatics Junior Artistic Swimming Championships set for Budapest, Hungary, this August, the Cape Town event will be the final step in qualification.

“This South African Championship serves as the final selection for this junior team. We have a very strong couple of duets who are contesting for that position as the top duet to compete at Budapest, and they are the Malan sisters [Jadi and Kenzie] from CGA, as well as Aurelia Pretorius and Rebecca Schenk from Western Cape Aquatics. All four of them have represented South Africa before, and they're vying for the title of top junior duet in order to be able to go to Budapest.”

There are also several international athletes who will participate in Cape Town next week.

“We have three international competitors – one from Guinea, and then a duet from Canada,” explained Manners-Wood. “And their coach is a very famous man. He was one of the first mixed duets to ever compete at a world championship. His name is Robert Prevost, and he is going to perform at our competition on the last day.”

Those wishing to attend the championships should contact Sue Manners-Wood at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further details.

Photo credits: World Aquatics

 

Escape to Music and Magic at the Cool Oaks Music Festival 2026

Byrne Valley, Richmond, KwaZulu-Natal - 26-27 June 2026

Music lovers are invited to shake off the winter chill and immerse themselves in an unforgettable weekend of live music, connection, and countryside charm at the Cool Oaks Music Festival, taking place on 26-27 June 2026 at The Oaks Hotel in the scenic Byrne Valley, Richmond, KZN.

Presented in association with Music in The Hills (MiTH), the festival brings together some of KwaZulu-Natal’s top musicians alongside the vibrant extended musical family of the KZN Midlands. Audiences can expect a rich blend of folk, rock, and acoustic performances in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates authentic music and community spirit. The 2026 lineup features an exciting array of artists, including Idols winner Jason Hartman, Rusty Red, Rob Warren (from Black Lapels), 3 Daughters-3 Dads, The Chickpeas, MMM Band, Blackbird, Grace & Tanya, Brian Bedingfield & Friends, Bowstring, Bruere Venter, as well as an Open Mic stage and additional performers to be announced.

Designed as a family-friendly experience, the festival offers something for everyone. Attendees can enjoy free camping or opt for comfortable 3-star hotel accommodation at just R500 per person per night sharing. The music programme spans Friday evening, Saturday afternoon, and Saturday night, all hosted in a dedicated music tent.

Beyond the music, guests can explore a variety of outdoor and leisure activities, including mountain biking, hiking, putt-putt, horse riding, and even a refreshing “polar bear” swim in the hotel pool. Evenings promise magical moments under the stars, accompanied by exceptional live performances.

Ticket Information:

Weekend Pass: R500 (Under 13: half price)
Saturday Pass: R300 (Under 13: half price)
Please note that no outside alcohol is permitted, as the venue is fully licensed with food and beverages available for purchase. Campers are welcome to bring their own food.

Whether you’re seeking great music, fresh Midlands air, or a relaxed winter escape, the Cool Oaks Acoustic Festival offers the perfect weekend getaway. Produced by Charles Webster Music.

Bookings & Enquiries:
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone: 082 554 1702

More Information:
www.oaksatbyrne.co.za
www.charleswebstermusic.co.za
www.mith.co.za

Charles Webster

+2782 331 7271

American Academy of Ballet Performance Awards Competition in Hilton

Hilton Theatre: Sat 28 March from 1pm

Ballet fans – plan a drive to Hilton this weekend as Hilton College Theatre has the huge honour of hosting the South African Performance Awards Competition on behalf of the American Academy of Ballet (AAB), a New York-based global ballet organisation that coordinates and hosts auditions and Performance Awards events all over the world – which comes to the Hilton College Theatre for the first time on Saturday 28 March from 1pm.

The public is invited to watch a thrilling high-stakes afternoon of top aspiring ballet dancers showcasing their skills in a competition format.

There are two sessions – one for junior and one for senior dancers. Both sessions start with class taken by Karen Beukes, former Artistic Director of Joburg Ballet AD, followed by a carefully curated competition format dance showcase. Approximately 20 dancers will be participating. Many from KZN but also from further afield. Dancers will perform choreographed routines before judges as a means of boosting their technique, artistry, and confidence, and has proven to be an extraordinary way to inspire, train and motivate dancers to improve while truly enjoying ballet.

The AAB Performance Awards Competition is open to all ballet teachers and their students. The dancer and teacher may decide the most appropriate level for entry and each dancer must perform the solo variation for the level they select. The judge for the day is Knysna-based Sidwell Roman, supported by Iain Macdonald, who represents AAB in South Africa, and is former Artistic Director of Joburg Ballet.

There are cash prizes for the best dancers.

The American Academy of Ballet, located in New York, is an exceptional ballet company renowned for its top-notch ballet instruction. The American Academy of Ballet offers world-class dance training and performance opportunities. Its mission is to provide rigorous and inspiring ballet education to prepare students for professional careers. Long recognised as one of the premier ballet training institutions in the United States, the AAB is particularly renowned for its Summer School of Excellence taking place in July. Its international faculty boasts teachers drawn from prestigious ballet institutions such as the Paris Opera Ballet School, the Royal Ballet School in Antwerp, the New York City Ballet and from South Africa, Iain Macdonald.

Established by the visionary South African trailblazer in the world of ballet education, Mignon Furman, in the early 90s, the prestigious Performance Awards programme offers aspiring dancers from around the world the opportunity to refine their skills in a focused, supportive environment.

“We invite dancers to be part of an international ballet event celebrated worldwide and to earn medals, certificates, and personalized feedback as well as experience the joy of performing in a supportive and inspiring atmosphere to build confidence, artistry, and lifelong memories,” says. Laurence Kaplan, the son of Mignon Furman and the AAB Executive Director.

“Every dancer deserves their moment — and in Hilton, that moment awaits. Join us for an afternoon that celebrates passion, progress, and performance — and maybe your journey will continue all the way to New York City! We look forward to a wonderful competition filled with talent, growth and inspiration”, he says.

Junior and Seniors will be adjudicated on Saturday 28 March from 1pm, with registrations from noon. Tickets are R160 through Webtickets. Tickets are in the form of a day-pass allowing access to the auditorium throughout the day.

For enquiries/information please contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / www.americanacademyofballet.com

Top image: Robin van Wyk puts aspirant ballet competition dancers through their paces at a previous South African Performance Awards Competition in Gauteng.

Below: The competition event comes to KZN for the first time – to Hilton – this weekend.

After months of groundwork, planning and considerable investment, one of the first major chapters of Brahman Hills’ long-term vision has come to life.

The award-winning, sanctuary-led destination has officially completed all four of its 5-Star Premium Signature Villas. Their completion marks a significant step in the broader multi-million-rand Serenity Garden development and brings a new calibre of luxury accommodation to the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.

According to Brahman Hills Director, Onwaba Gonyora, the addition of the 5-Star Premium Signature Villas reflects a deliberate move towards meaningful luxury. It also strengthens Brahman Hills’ existing accommodation mix, which includes both 4-star and 5-star options, giving guests the freedom to experience the gardens, spa and future 22-hectare labyrinth in a way that suits their needs, occasion and budget.

Gonyora says that each of the four villas has been designed to deliver a more elevated, intimate and personalised guest experience, while remaining deeply rooted in the natural surroundings that define Brahman Hills.

“We wanted each villa to feel like a true sanctuary. A place where guests can switch off, breathe out and leave feeling restored. They’re private, fully serviced and thoughtfully designed, with spacious interiors, refined finishes and views that will take your breath away,” she adds.

As the pinnacle of the Brahman Hills accommodation offering, the experience is as considered as the 5-Star Premium Signature Villas themselves. From complimentary Moët chilled in your villa and butler service, to private dining and thoughtful guest gifting, every detail has been designed to deliver a seamless and deeply personal stay. Each booking also includes a spa experience for every couple and, once complete, exclusive access to The Serenity Garden.

Gonyora says the villas, which form part of the new Serenity Garden development, are a natural extension of the estate’s purpose. “When we say Brahman Hills is committed to shifting lives, it is not just words on a website. It is a responsibility we take incredibly seriously. It shapes how we build, how we host and how we care for every guest and the land around us. It’s our why. This project is creating opportunities for the region, uplifting the community, supporting the people who work here and creating something meaningful for every guest who comes through our doors. Everything we’re building is intended to last, not only for today’s guests, but for our children’s children. The completion of these villas is a significant milestone because it shows that our purpose is taking shape in a real and tangible way,” she concludes.

To be among the first to stay in the 5-star Premium Signature Villas and experience how The Serenity Garden is coming to life, visit: https://www.brahmanhills.co.za/

The KZN Region of the SANParks Honorary Rangers (SHR) is working to raise a targeted R1.5 million from this year’s Comrades Marathon Association’s Amabeadibeadi Race4Charity campaign.

Last year, the Comrades Marathon community of runners and supporters, helped raise over R1.5 million for the SANParks Honorary Rangers through the Comrades Race4Charity Drive, funding critical conservation support across South Africa’s national parks.

Following the severe flooding in Kruger National Park earlier this year, this iconic park has seen extensive damage to roads, bridges, tourist infrastructure and operational facilities and activities. Several K9 unit kennels were damaged, placing additional strain on the teams that rely on highly trained dogs to track poachers, locate contraband wildlife products and support ranger patrols across the park. These canine units are widely regarded as one of the most effective tools in protecting endangered species.

This year, the funds raised from the SHR Comrades Marathon Race4Charity and Amabeadibeadi campaign will continue to provide vital support for the various anti-poaching and conservation efforts in Kruger National Park and other parks managed by South African National Parks (SANParks).

Last year, funds raised by runners through Race4Charity helped to renovate and upgrade anti-poaching facilities, kennels for K9 units and training of new K9 anti-poaching dogs, with 2 dogs - a Bloodhound called Yoris and a Bloodhound Cross named Khargi - purchased for tracking in the Kruger National Park.

Wildlife monitoring and protection equipment was purchased for Mountain Zebra National Park in the Eastern Cape.

In the Western Cape, the K9 unit at Table Mountain National Park was renovated and upgraded, while in the Richtersveld National Park, security cameras were installed to protect endangered succulents threatened by poaching.

Finally, funds were also donated to the organisation’s Embrace National Project which provides support for rangers at the frontline of conservation, through trauma and stress management programmes and life skills training.

In 2026, Comrades supporters and runners can get involved in several ways:

Runners already registered for the Comrades Marathon on 14 June 2026 can sign up for Race4Charity and select SANParks Honorary Rangers as their fundraising charity of choice, then encourage friends, family and supporters to sponsor their run in support of SANParks Honorary Rangers.
Supporters can sponsor runners directly via the Race4Charity website (https://charity.comrades.com/events/comrades-marathon-2026).
Other ways to help are to buy Comrades Toyota Win-A-Car Competition tickets to stand a chance to win a Toyota Corolla Cross, or purchase Amabeadibeadi merchandise from volunteer members of the SHR. Competition tickets sold by the SHR can be purchased here.
“Every contribution helps to protect South Africa’s National Parks,” says KZN Region’s Committee Chairperson, Gavin Abel.

For more information about the SANParks Honorary Rangers, visit https://www.sanparksvolunteers.org/ or about joining the SHR’s Race4Charity team, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Pictured here: SANParks Honorary Rangers will be out in full force at their “water hole” refreshment station this year.  The volunteer organisation is calling for Comrades Marathon runners to sign up for the Race4Charity to support conservation. Pic by Falcon de Wet from 2025 Comrades Marathon “Water-hole”.

PostNet Hilton is your one-stop shop when moving house, we will help you with courier needs, moving supplies, mailboxes & more!

𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗞:
PostNet to Door
PostNet to PostNet
Authorised DHL & Aramex Outlet
Import & Export
International Air Freight
Road Freight
Excess Baggage
Collections
Packaging Material

Visit at 39 Hilton Avenue

086 006 1004

081 405 0768 - WhatsApp

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Where else can you meet with friends and enjoy top South African music in a beautiful setting, with roaring fires, hearty food and a cash bar – all for just R50?

*MiTH LINEUP 8 April 2026*

Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm

Entrance: R50.00 (cash or Zapper at the door)

Info: 082 331 7271

Join the KZN Midlands Live Shows WhatsApp Group for updates on live shows across the Midlands: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IBdaSGVPA5oLbedRwPoFn9

*20h40 – JASON & SCOTT HARTMAN*

Jason Hartman and his brother Scott have been setting KZN alight, having reunited for their long-anticipated homecoming tour. Known for their seamless harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and unmistakable chemistry, the Hartmans bring a performance that’s both intimate and powerful. Jason, a household name since his SA Idols victory, has built a respected solo career, but it’s the reunion with family that makes this moment so special. Expect beloved hits, new songs, and stories from their shared journey in a celebration of family, legacy, and the enduring pull of music.

*19h40 – ROLY STRUCKMEYER*

Having been a fixture on the music scene in KwaZulu Natal since the late 80s, Pietermaritzburg-born acoustic guitarist and vocalist Roly Struckmeyer started playing the guitar at age seven. His music career began when he returned from England in 1989 to form a band known as House On The Hill. During his career as a performer, Roly has toured and performed with names such as Wonderboom and Landscape Prayers. He has also featured at Splashy Fen. Roly worked with Syd Kitchen in the early 2000s, and with Perez from 2001. He did a solo album in 2007, and has spent the decade and more in cover bands – No Fly Zone, A-frame and more recently, Rustic Spring. Roly is excited to still be playing and creating music, and to be back at MiTH.

*19h00 – ROSS WILLIAMS*

Hailing from Howick, Ross Williams draws inspiration from folk, country, indie and alternative music. He enjoys playing guitar, singing, and sharing short cover clips on social media. While music competes with other commitments, it remains a vital creative outlet, and Ross continues to challenge himself and grow whenever the opportunity arises.

*ABOUT MiTH*

Food and cash bar available on site. The KZN Midlands’ favourite live music venue, MiTH is a platform for beginners, professionals and music lovers to celebrate the joy of live performance. Hosted every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Hilton.

*DIRECTIONS TO MiTH*

Take the N3 to Hilton. Turn into Hilton Village and drive 5.2 km 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. Info: 082 331 7271, www.mith.co.za or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Entries Open for Popular SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge

Durban: Sunday 28 June

Striding into its 36th year, entries are officially open for the much-loved and iconic SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge in Durban taking place from the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium on Sunday 28 June.

This year Durban’s most beautiful race is capped at 12,500 entries with participants deciding between a gentle 5km ‘fun run’ challenge or the more serious 10km race which has an attractive cash purse for top runners. The longer distance sets off on the fast and flat ‘out-and-back’ route at 8am sharp, while the 5km athletes will get going at 9am, with both distances taking participants along parts of Durban’s spectacular Golden Mile.

All registration is done online, with options to pay using a debit or credit card, and with a convenient new addition to pay in-store at any SPAR in KwaZulu Natal after entering online. One lucky entrant who opts to pay in-store could win a R10,000 SPAR voucher. Online entries close on Monday 22 June.

The 10km forms part of the national SPAR Grand Prix series, run over five SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge races, in Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane, Gqeberha and Johannesburg. The competitive runners will be able to pocket R33,000 in prize money for coming first across the line in this year’s 10km race. A total of R138,000 will be awarded to the top ten in the open category, with each other category giving away R6,500 for the top three placers.

As it is a women’s event, the race organisers have decided that the more competitive distance is only open to woman. Men are welcome to dress up and have fun in the 5km Fun Run / Walk. Another change this year, all finishers will receive a medal and their Goodie Bag after they complete their run. Heading through the finish chute, race numbers will have a tear off section that must be handed over in exchange for the jam-packed Goodie Bag. Plus, SPAR KZN will be giving away some fantastic items in the post-race lucky draw, including a Hyundai Exter 1.2 Premium MT to the value of R269 900.

The Challenge continues to be more than just a race, by offering a running or walking experience that extends beyond the road, enabling participants to connect with like-minded women, have fun and reach important goals that they set for themselves. This year’s #CelebrateHer theme recognises the strength, spirit and diverse stories of all the women who take part, and who each arrive at the finish line with their own motivations and journeys.

Race Registration is on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 June on the outer fields at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium. As last year’s Challenge sold out a few weeks before, early entry is advisable to avoid disappointment.

Five rand from each entry will go to this year’s Race Charity, iThemba Lethu. Based in Manor Gardens, iThemba Lethu is dedicated to shaping brighter futures by investing in young lives from an early age and supporting them every step of the way.

To enter go to www.sparwomenschallenge.co.za

Photo credits: VAL ADAMSON

Top - When life tosses you lemons. Every lemon is a burst of sunshine, relishing the announcement of this year’s Most Beautiful Race are keen runner, Yolanda Bukani, Gugulethu Sokhela (Advertising Controller: SPAR KZN) and Eleanore Pillay (Special Promotions Manager: SPAR KZN); Entries are open for the Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge taking place on Sunday 28 June with the theme #CelebrateHer.

Below - Celebrating! Entries are open for the local running of South Africa’s Most Beautiful Race. This year’s theme for the Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge taking place on Sunday 28 June is #CelebrateHer. Getting in step at the announcement are Eleanore Pillay (Special Promotions Manager: SPAR KZN) and three-time Maritzburg SPAR Women’s Challenge and recent Cape Town SPAR Women’s Challenge winner Tayla Kavanagh (Hollywoodbets AC).

As the world marks World Bipolar Awareness Day on 30 March 2026, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is calling on South Africans to listen to the voices of people living with Bipolar Disorder and to challenge the stigma that still surrounds Mental Health conditions. This year, SADAG’s focus is on lived experience sharing real stories from people across South Africa who are finding their way through life, work, family, and relationships while managing Bipolar Disorder. Through the campaign “Strength with Bipolar,” SADAG aims to shift the conversation away from labels and toward the people behind the diagnosis.

“A diagnosis does not define a person,” says SADAG Support Group leader for people living with Bipolar, Mogammed. “People living with Bipolar Disorder are mothers, fathers, partners, professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and community leaders. They are individuals with hopes, goals, and talents, and they also live with a Mental Health condition.”

Support Group member, Melissa shares, “I live with Bipolar Disorder, but I am also a mother and a professional. Learning how to manage my Mental Health has helped me rebuild my confidence.” Support Group member, Phindile adds, “Some days are harder than others, but with support and treatment, I am able to live a full and meaningful life.” A central message repeated throughout the campaign is: “Strength with Bipolar.”

Psychiatrist, Dr Alicia Porter shares, “Bipolar disorder is only one part of a person’s life, it does not define their identity, their worth, or their future. When we reduce people to a diagnosis, we silence their full story. It’s time we listen, understand, and recognise the strength it takes to live, work, love, and show up every day while managing this condition.”

Stigma remains one of the biggest challenges preventing people from seeking help. Many people fear judgment, discrimination, or misunderstanding when speaking about Bipolar Disorder, listen to lived experience stories with empathy, support not only family members but colleagues who may also be struggling, and help create environments where people feel safe to seek help.

For people living with Bipolar Disorder, or for family members who want to better understand how to support a loved one, SADAG offers support and access to care. SADAG encourages anyone who may need help to reach out for Free Telephonic Counselling and emotional support, Mental Health information and guidance, referrals to Mental Health professionals, and access to Support Groups where people can connect with others who share similar lived experiences.

Changing the conversation around Bipolar Disorder starts with all of us. Visit the SADAG website at www.sadag.org to access the Bipolar Awareness Toolkit, which offers valuable information, resources, and ways to start conversations around Mental Health. You can also get involved on social media by tagging @SADAG_Official when sharing posts to help spread the message, show support, and remind others that they are not alone.

SADAG encourages anyone experiencing symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, or who is concerned about a loved one, to reach out for support. Help is available 24 hours a day through the SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0800 567 567 or 0800 456 786. You can also send an SMS to 31393 for a Counsellor to call back or reach out via WhatsApp on 076 882 2775 (available 8am - 5pm, 7 days a week).

On World Bipolar Awareness Day, SADAG reminds South Africans that Mental Health conditions do not define a person’s identity or potential. SADAG's Operations Director, Cassey Chambers shares, “For over 30 years, SADAG has stood alongside people living with Bipolar Disorder fighting for their rights to fair treatment, access to care, and dignity within both the healthcare system and society. This Bipolar Awareness Day, we are calling on South Africa to look beyond the diagnosis and the statistics, and to see the person as someone with a story, a family, a career, and a future. Living with Bipolar Disorder is not a limitation of identity, but a testament to resilience. This year, we are changing the narrative to recognise the strength, humanity, and lived experiences of those navigating Bipolar Disorder every day.”

We all know Easter is just around the corner, and with that comes a long weekend and school holidays. We’ve decided to take that opportunity for some rest & relaxation, and will be closing the nursery from Wednesday, 1st April to Tuesday, 7th April.

Now that doesn’t mean we’ll be skipping out on the Easter fun!

This weekend (Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th March), we'll celebrate early, with marshmallow eggs hidden all over the nursery and surrounding gardens for the kids and the adults who are young at heart ;) You keep what you find!

But the real treat, as always, will be the plants. We have some amazing autumn options, specifically plectranthus, bergenia, salvia and duranta. They’re all looking great.

Spend R250 or more on any plants at the nursery between now and Tuesday, 31st March, and you’ll be entered into a lucky draw for a chance to win a R750 voucher for the nursery.

We look forward to seeing you and your family!

AND...

Our Fuchsias Are Back!

Probably our most exciting news of the year so far… Our fuchsias are back on the sales floor! It’s taken a few months of dedicated work to replenish our stock that was damaged in the hailstorm. We have several varieties on the floor in different sizes. Come and get ‘em!