IMPORTANT NOTICE: WhatsApp is not a formal emergency channel

At Knight Security Solutions (KSS), our mission is to deliver reliable, professional, and efficient security services to our clients and the greater KZN Midlands community. While we recognise the widespread use and convenience of WhatsApp, especially within neighbourhood and community groups, it is important to understand that WhatsApp is not a formal or recognised platform for emergency or dispatch services in the South African private security sector.

Why WhatsApp should not be relied upon in emergencies
Despite its popularity, WhatsApp presents several limitations that make it unsuitable for formal emergency communication. Here’s why:

1. Message volume creates noise
WhatsApp groups are often overwhelmed with messages, making it easy for crucial emergency alerts or threads to get lost. In high-stakes situations, delays in spotting the right message can have serious consequences.

2. No secure logging or recording
KSS’s control room telephone system allows for calls to be logged, timestamped, and voice-recorded, which is a requirement for auditing, legal, and insurance purposes. WhatsApp does meet these standards, and with disappearing messages now common, message tracking becomes challenging.

3. No integration with security technology
Our control room platforms integrate with panic buttons, alarm systems, SNIPR, CCTV, and tracking services. WhatsApp is not built to interface with these systems, making it incompatible with real-time security monitoring and automated response.

4. It disrupts professional protocols
Control rooms like KSS manage multiple incoming alerts, such as alarm signals, phone calls, radio transmissions, CCTV activations, etc… in a structured way. WhatsApp messages are not part of this protocol and require manual monitoring on separate devices, disrupting workflow.

The right way to contact KSS in an emergency
To ensure YOUR request is officially received and processed, use these formal and secure channels:
• Call the KSS Control Room directly as these calls are recorded and constitute a formal request for dispatch.
• Use your linked panic button or alarm system as these are directly connected to our monitoring software and allow for instant response.

Yes, KSS Monitors WhatsApp - but it should NOT be seen as a dispatch tool
KSS does monitor WhatsApp community groups. This allows us to stay engaged, informed, and offer support. However, WhatsApp is not a guaranteed channel for dispatch or emergency action. No response or action can be 100% assured through WhatsApp by ANY safety, security or emergency body.

Research-based insights into WhatsApp’s limitations
Though research on WhatsApp in the security sector is limited, related findings from emergency medical and enterprise communication contexts confirm our KSS experience with WhatsApp usage:

1. Information overload
“The lack of a closed-loop communication system means that critical message threads may be missed or delayed” (Lee et.al, 2024).

2. Privacy and data concerns
“The informal nature of the platform… can compromise confidentiality and data security” (Calleja-Castillo et.al., 2018).

3. Inappropriate for crisis communication
“WhatsApp is not designed for crisis situations… and lacks integration with official record-keeping systems” (Khan, 2023).

4. Unprofessional communication risks
“The informal nature of instant messaging can lead to prioritization issues, where non-urgent communications inadvertently compete with critical alerts, potentially delaying timely care. Unprofessional behavior is another risk associated with the use of WhatsApp, as the informal communication platform might encourage casual or inappropriate exchanges that undermine professional standards” (Saini et. al., 2024).

Best practices for secure emergency communication
Security organisations like KSS rely on:
• Direct phone calls for voice-logged communication and accountability.
• Dedicated panic and alarm systems for immediate alerts integrated with control room software.
• Formal logging and monitoring systems to ensure traceable and auditable records of all incidents.

WhatsApp can be helpful for community engagement, but it cannot replace official channels for emergencies. Please do not use WhatsApp as your primary method to reach KSS in urgent situations.

By following the correct protocols, you help us respond faster and more effectively, contributing to a safer, more secure community.

Hot items
Shoplifting
Electronic goods
Irons
Chainsaw
Trespassing

You can contact our KSS Management Team for any other information on:
Gary (Owner): This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 082 8947 628
Renee (Business Manager): This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 063 2921 240
Sashen (Manager Technical): This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 082 6736 773
Pat (Manager Operations): This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 082 6132 995
Local 24/7 Control Room: 033 330 5911

 

 

References for WhatsApp information:
Calleja-Castillo, J. M., & Gonzalez-Calderon, G. (2018). WhatsApp in Stroke Systems: Current Use and Regulatory Concerns. Frontiers in Neurology, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2018.00388

Khan, R. (2023). What is needed for enterprise communications. Open Access Government; Adjacent Digital Politics Ltd. https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/what-is-needed-for-enterprise-communications/

Lee, J. A., Wachira, B. W., Kennedy, J., Asselin, N., & Mould-Millman, N.-K. (2024). Utilisation of WhatsApp for Emergency Medical Services in Garissa, Kenya. African Journal of Emergency Medicine, 14(1), 38–44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.afjem.2024.01.002

Saini, R., Jeyaraman, M., Jeyaraman, N., Jain, V. K., Ramasubramanian, S., & Iyengar, K. P. (2024). Advancing orthopaedic trauma care through WhatsApp: An analysis of clinical and non-clinical applications, challenges, and future directions. World Journal of Orthopedics, 15(6), 529–538. https://doi.org/10.5312/wjo.v15.i6.529

Programme of Events for Hills 1000 Paws Walk 2025

08:00 Gates open & walks begin
08:30 Cowan House Marimba Band
09:15 Arena events begin
09.15 Precious Pups Competition (up to 6 months)
09:35 Terrific Teens Competition (6 to 18 months)
09:55 Awesome Adult Dogs Competition (18 months to 7 yrs.)
10:15 Cowan House Marimba Band
10:35 Golden Oldies Competition (8 yrs. and older)
10:55 Owner & Dog Look-a-Like Competition (owners may dress up to look like their dog, but dogs may only wear regular dog gear)
11:15 Most Special Rescue Dog Competition (from any recognised rescue organisation but not SPCA)
11:35 SPCA Champion Dog Competition (adopted from any SPCA)
11:55 K9 Academy demonstration & Sniffer Dog Paper Plate Challenge
12:30 1000 Paws Raffle Draw
14:00 Closing time

 

This is a fundraiser that benefits our local SPCAs, including uMngeni SPCA!

Hello local friends! Please help us collect these items for crafts and games on camps.

You can drop it off at our office at 8 Pink Oak avenue, Hilton, by 17 June.

Thank you for helping to make camps fun!

Contact: 031 020 0200 or 082 789 5821

Art in the Country Top 10 artists - by sales are.
1. Sarah Pryke - Fragments of Africa (Pictured here.)
2. Shirley Pittaway
3. Grace Kotze
4. Karen Stegen
5. Hayley Lombard
6. Judy Wenzel
7. Zenzo Siamenda
8. Tonja Seiler
9. Neil Moss
10. David Johnston

 

 

'I had a great time at Art in the Country... I think it is fast becoming the premier art event in KZN... There were many highly skilled artists from all over the country exhibiting, with a really diverse and unique range of artworks and skills on exhibition... definitely something for everyone's art taste!

We are so lucky to have such incredible local support in this area, as well as see an increasing number of visitors from all around the country. My mosaics sold to both local and inter-province visitors (Johannesburg and Cape Town).' commented Sarah Pryke.

An Evening of Elegance, Laughter and Celebration

Gather your colleagues, clients, and friends for a spectacular gala dinner in support of hospice care. Savor a delightful three-course meal. Enjoy an exclusive comedy performance by Conrad Koch. Dance the night away in style.This special event is the perfect way to come together, celebrate achievements, and make a meaningful impact—all while enjoying an evening of fine dining, entertainment, and great company.

Date: Saturday, November 8th
Venue: Haycroft Farm Country Wedding Venue and Accommodation

Tables and corporate bookings available! Reserve your place now and be part of a night to remember.

Contact us at 033 330 5257 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to book your table.

Every small business owner dreams of landing a big customer. It’s the kind of breakthrough that doesn’t just change a business. It changes everything. For most entrepreneurs, the hustle isn’t only about profit. It’s about purpose. It’s about building something that can provide for a family, uplift a community, and prove that success is possible against the odds. The long nights. The risks. The sacrifices. They’re not just part of the journey. They’re the price of the dream. And for those who persevere, the right opportunity can be the spark that makes all the struggle worth it.

And, truly life-changing opportunities don’t come around every day. But when they do, they can open the door to something much bigger…recognition, resources, revenue, and the kind of growth that transforms businesses and lives. And for Black-owned furniture and homeware SMEs, one of those rare moments has arrived. The 2025 eThekwini Furniture Cluster (EFC) SME Accelerator is here once again, and it could be the catalyst that turns dreams for Black industrialists into reality!

Backed by the eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development Programmes & Planning Unit (EDP&PU), the EFC SME Accelerator is now in its third year, and 2025’s programme is the most exciting yet. Because this year, four of South Africa’s most iconic furniture and homeware retailers and manufacturers are on board: Mr Price Home, Homewood, Pepkor Lifestyle, and Poetry of Living. These aren’t just household names. They are industry giants actively searching for new local suppliers with the potential to grow. And they’re not just interested in one-off deals. They’re looking for long-term partnerships to support their local sourcing commitments and drive real transformation in the furniture industry.

Imagine seeing your artwork prints sold at Mr Price Home. Your crockery, vases or handcrafted planters featured on the shelves of Poetry of Living across the country. That’s not just visibility. That’s validation. And according to Titus Mazibuko, eThekwini’s Economic Development Programme Manager for furniture, this Accelerator gives you a real chance to get there.

“As a key contributor to employment and GDP growth, the furniture industry in KwaZulu-Natal plays a vital role in the regional economy,” he explains. “Initiatives like the EFC SME Accelerator highlight the impact effective collaboration between government and the private sector can have in helping the industry to grow,” Mazibuko adds. “And the importance of connecting high-potential small businesses with the kind of opportunities that can elevate them to national and even global markets lies in the long-term growth it enables - not just for individual entrepreneurs, but for the broader communities and industries they support.”

Since its inception in 2021, the EFC SME Accelerator has already delivered impressive results. To date:

Fourteen high-potential SMEs pitched to major retailers and gained exposure to big buyers.
Fifteen commercial opportunities were unlocked for participating firms.
One SME secured expansion funding through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
Multiple businesses received extensive support, diagnostic assessments and coaching from industry experts.

So, who should apply for the EFC SME Accelerator?

Any South African, Black-owned SME with products or services aligned to the sector, including:

Bedding and soft furnishings
Outdoor and patio furniture
Crockery, vessels, vases and planters
Butler trays, decorative plates and door handles
Lighting, mirrors and frames
Timber and carved wooden items
Upholstery, beanbags and teak or oak furniture
Printing of bespoke artworks or designs

Selected SMEs will get a rare chance to pitch their products directly to decision-makers from the four participating furniture and homeware retailers and manufacturers, opening doors that are often hard to access. Along the way, they'll benefit from expert coaching, tailored business support, and the opportunity to win cash prizes.

Big dreams, bold ideas? We’re ready to hear them so don’t miss your chance to be seen. Your seat at the table is waiting; come and claim it. There’s no entry fee. No fine print. Just a genuine chance to scale your business and shift your future.

Applications close on 2nd June 2025, so you need to hurry.

Don’t miss out. Apply now: https://forms.zohopublic.com/bmanalysts/form/EFCAcceleratorApplicationForm/formperma/1k6fqwlHoCtkxBM2SPJJWWpLLgCzLHkiwjmd_-15FYs

Pictured here: Celebrating success: EDP&PU representatives with the 2023 EFC Accelerator SME prize winners.

ART IN THE COUNTRY | THIS WEEK at Harrington House

Step into a world where creativity meets countryside charm — ART IN THE COUNTRY is back and it’s happening this week at Harrington House! Join us from 22nd to 25th May for an unforgettable celebration of art, beauty, and local talent. Expect captivating exhibitions, incredible works of art, and the perfect setting to be inspired.

Opening Times:
Thursday to Saturday | 10am – 8pm
Sunday | 9am – 4pm

Whether you’re an art collector, an admirer, or just looking for a stunning day out — this is the event you don’t want to miss. Sip something special under the trees, soak in the views, and let the art move you.

Harrington House – where elegance meets expression.

 

Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge
Let us entertain you
Durban: Sunday 22 June

Don’t rush off after you complete this year’s Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge on Sunday 22 June, as two proudly Durban acts take to the stage in the finish area at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Rugby Stadium’s outer fields.

Veranda Panda (Top image) and DJ Dlala Thukzin are lined up to entertain participants and supporters on either side of the prize giving on race day. First up, Veranda Panda promises to enchant with their mash up, cross over of vibrant, high-energy “guaranteed to get you dancing” tunes. Sandwiched between prize giving and the lucky draws, Magic Handz, Thuthuka Zindlovu will spin the crowd right towards the big prize giveaways.

DJ Dlala Thukzin, started moulding his musical career when he realised his passion at a young age. Growing up in Lamontville, an incubator for surfers and local lifeguards, Magic Handz has an affinity with the Durban heartbeat and lifestyle, which can be felt in his tracks.

His smash hit, ‘iPlan’ featuring Zaba and Sykes is one of the most played and bestselling songs on our local airwaves, reaching the top on multiple radio stations and online platforms. Dlala Thukzin will dazzle the crowds right before race organisers dip in to reveal the winners of the Lucky Draw prizes valued of R70,000, and the gorgeous Hyundai Exter 1.2 Premium MT to the value of R269 900.

The dynamite duo, husband and wife team Jane and Liam Magner will revitalise the crowds as they come through the finish line. Veranda Panda seeks to bring people together through shared musical experience, served up through their lively brand of electric violin, vocals and machines. They are a live electronic act, who produce, create and perform their own original music, with fifteen years of experience on hundreds of stages, their music articulates stories and feelings, and captures moments that speak to the heart of what it means to feel alive

Their music celebrates the melting pot of influences that have surrounded them in their beautiful home country. With echoes of Jane’s classical violin training, their shared Scottish and Irish heritage, and the rich tapestry of African rhythms, harmonies and grooves; Veranda Panda is a product of their vibrant and complex rainbow nation, expressed in the live electronic music space. They have playlisted and charted on many notable South African national radio stations, with their popular singles: Sugarbee, Chocolate Mermaid, Dopamine, Pineapple Sunday, Right Here Now and Carry Me.

The finish area will be buzzing with beats with two world class performances entertaining the crowds at this year’s Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge.

More info or if you would like to enter, visit www.spar.run

 

"Our aim yesterday was to cover Piggly Wiggly in blankets and we certainly did that!

Final Tally - 459
Blankets - 213
Ponchos - 102
Beanies - 108
Scarves - 23
Bedsocks - 5
Baby cardigans - 8
Money from the raffles - R960.00

A special mention of thanks to; Moyra who works tirelessly every week sorting the squares into some semblance of order and for the help yesterday chatting to everyone about the project, Pevensey Place from Underberg who brought us beautiful blankets and joined us for the day, the ladies of Amberfield Frail Care who inspire us all, the many helpers who helped hang up, take down, count and pack all the blankets, and to all those anonymous folk out there who donate and support us. We thank you all.' said Gill Pryke as she reviewed the second annual blanket drive.

Congratulations to Thalia (Top image) who won a blanket with her guess of how many beanies were bagged for distribution.

The needles and yarn never stop producing, behind the scenes supporters are already working toward the 2026 event. You are welcome to join in too, meet other woolly crafters every Wednesday at Piggly Wiggly Coffee Shop between 10am and 2pm. For more information please WhatsApp Gill on 082 254 4798.

Where can you meet with friends, enjoy great music in a beautiful environment with roaring fires, hearty food and a cash bar – all for just R50? Music in The Hills (MiTH) at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm in Hilton every second Wednesday! Your best bet for an affordable, soul-stirring musical experience with your friends.

MiTH – 4 June 2025
Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm
Entrance: R50.00 (Cash or Zapper at the Door)
Info: 082 331 7271

7:00-7:25 PM – Bridgitt Leahy
Bridgitt is an acoustic artist, with a passion for indie, folk, alternative, and country genres, she has always found inspiration in the unique sounds and stories that these genres offer. She grew up in a small town called Creighton where she was surrounded by her dad’s music and his singing, it was this at inspired her to become a musician at 15. Whether performing original songs or stripped-back covers, she aims to connect with her audience through emotion, authenticity, and the simple magic of a voice and a guitar.

7:30-8:15 PM – Grace Botha (with Stu Hancocks)
Grace Botha is a singer-songwriter who blends jazz, pop, folk, and soul in her performances. She typically accompanies herself on piano or guitar and shares a mix of well-known covers and heartfelt originals. Grace will be joined by drummer Stu Hancocks of Scrapyard Junkies fame, bringing an additional rhythmic layer to her set.

8:30 PM – The Electric Hatstands
The Electric Hatstands are a musical duo from the KZN Midlands, made up of Talya Mari (guitar & vocals) and Gareth Maré (guitar & vocals). Their sound is alternative acoustic rock, drawing influences from alternative and hard rock to country. Gareth has played in several alternative rock bands over 30 years, including Dust and Junkyard Theatre. Talya brings a passion for song writing and storytelling, influenced by artists like Four Non Blondes and others.

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.

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.

Hey you, have you saved the date yet?

Ticket sales for Hilton Arts Festival 2025 open soon (like, really soon) but in the meantime, do what you need to do to lock this in:
Write it in your diary. Set a reminder on your phone. Draw a picture and stick it on the fridge. Tattoo it on your heart (okay, maybe not that far) — just don’t miss it.

It’s that special.

Date; 8–10 August 2025
Place: Hilton College, KwaZulu-Natal

You're invited to the Hilton Pre-Primary Moonlight Carnival!

Join us this Friday, 30 May 2025 from 3pm to 7pm for an unforgettable afternoon of family fun!

Venue: Hilton Pre-Primary School
Magic Show
Horse Rides
Fun Games & Obstacles
Popcorn & Candy Floss
And so much more!

Bring the whole family and let the fun begin under the Hilton skies!

Spread the word — share this post and invite your friends, family, and neighbours! Let’s make it a magical community celebration!

'Personally, I use Ozone therapy as an indispensable component of my wellness regime. It's quick and easy to use. There's an ever increasing body of scientific evidence which attests to its safety and efficacy.' Lynne Boyes.

 

Lynne Boyes is a Certified Clinical Thermographer and Ozone Practitioner based in Hilton KZN and available by appointment in Howick.

ThermOZONE Therapy - Available in Hilton only

MEDICAL OZONE THERAPY – Medical Ozone is a therapeutic tool of great power, which can aid the body in regaining health. Ozone is not your usual form of oxygen, it is activated oxygen. Oxygen is the centre of every aspect of health.
• Medical ozone modulates the immune system.
• It eliminates viruses, bacteria, yeast and fungus.
• Medical ozone cleans arteries and veins, improves circulation and purifies the blood and lymph.
• It normalizes hormone and enzyme production and normalizes blood pressure.
• Ozone reduces pain and inflammation, reduces cardiac arrhythmia.
• Speeds up wound healing. It improves brain function and memory.

Simply put Ozone is SUPERCHARGED OXYGEN working at cellular level.

To book an appointment call Lynne on 082 828 6778.

Don’t miss the next Hello from the other side at Crossways Hilton on 7 June.

A beautiful tribute to the sensational powerhouse singer, Adele.

“The singing and keyboard playing is stunning - and the little comments on each song makes it even more interesting. Fantastic entertainment,” Odette Randelhoff

“Absolutely brilliant show!!!” Toni Harley, who added that they have booked to attend again!

A huge congratulations to the Laddsworth Baking Team for taking first place at the Hilton Quarry Centre Great Schools Bake-Off for the second year in a row!

Over the past 3 weeks, your dedication, creativity, and teamwork have truly shone, often late into the afternoon.

While the win is wonderful, the real reward has been watching your vision come to life. We are incredibly proud of you all!

A massive thank you to all involved, especially Mrs Gillian Ilijevski for your hard work and guidance.