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 – 10 September 2025

Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm

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

Info: 082 331 7271

*8pm – Danny de Wet* (supported by Skippy Khubeka and Quinton Lotter)

Danny de Wet (eVOID / Petit Cheval / Electric Petals / Wonderboom) is the notorious SA drummer, now known for his best-selling book "Sex, Drums and Rock & Roll... in Africa!" – an often hilarious unofficial history of South African Rock from the late seventies into the new millennium.

In an Unplugged Storytellers set filled with outrageous stories and crazy songs to match, Danny will be joined by Skippy Khubeka on originals like The Ballad of Louis Carver, and Hairy Armpits Will Never Change The World (written for wild Durban Rock Journalist, Therese Owen), as well as some tunes by Uncle Bob. Danny is such a big Dylan fan that he had a nose job... TO HAVE HIS NOSE MADE BIGGER!!

*7pm – John Manuel*

John Manuel is a local singer-songwriter whose self-styled “murder jazz” fuses sharp, sassy lyrics with soulful finger-style grooves. Influenced by jazz, bossa, and South African guitar greats like Steve Newman, Sandile Shange, and Syd Kitchen, his sound also nods to modern acts such as Beatenberg, Elbow, Supergrass, and Half Moon Run. Nominated for a South African Music Award (SAMA) in 2010 for his debut album Lost and Found, Manuel later stepped back to pursue a career as a respected English teacher. Now returning to the stage, he brings with him fresh energy and a collection of new music to share.

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.

What an incredible celebration we had at LivPadel Hilton’s Birthday Bash on the 23rd and 24th of August! From the exciting tournaments to the buzzing courts filled with laughter, energy, and camaraderie, this event was nothing short of spectacular.

We are truly grateful to the Hilton community and all our amazing players, families, and supporters who came out to make our very first birthday such a memorable milestone. Your enthusiasm, love for padel, and community spirit were at the heart of this celebration. Whether you joined us on court, cheered from the sidelines, or came to soak up the festive vibe, your presence made all the difference.

The highlight of the weekend was not only the thrilling round robin and mixed americano tournaments, but also the joy of seeing new friendships formed and old ones strengthened. The positive energy was contagious, and it reminded us why padel is more than just a sport - it’s about connection, teamwork, and having fun together.

What’s Next? The fun doesn’t stop here! September is packed with exciting tournaments and social events at LivPadel Hilton. Keep an eye on our updates - we’ve got plenty of opportunities for you to hit the courts, challenge yourself, and, most importantly, have a blast with the Hilton padel family.

CoffeeBerry Courtside – Now at LivPadel Hilton! We are also thrilled to officially welcome CoffeeBerry Courtside to our club. Their delicious drinks and tasty food offerings are already a huge hit with our players and guests. Whether you’re grabbing a refreshing smoothie post-match, enjoying a hot cappuccino while catching up with friends, or indulging in one of their fresh food specials, CoffeeBerry Courtside brings a whole new vibe to the LivPadel experience. Be sure to swing by and try out their menu the next time you’re here - you won’t be disappointed!

Once again, a heartfelt thank you to our Hilton community for making our birthday bash so unforgettable. We are excited to continue growing with you, building stronger connections, and creating many more memorable moments both on and off the courts.

Stay tuned - September is going to be another month filled with action, fun, and community spirit. We can’t wait to see you all back on court soon!

For any queries, bookings, or assistance, feel free to contact us:
Phone: 083 796 7793
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

See you on the courts!

Fire Safety
Almost 99% of all fires are caused by human negligence. They are mostly caused by electrical faults or carelessness. Cigarettes, matches and lighters, candles, heating appliances and open braai fires can all cause fires if not carefully monitored. Environmental factors such as changing weather patterns, berg winds and dry scrub conditions can also be considered risk factors.

To prevent the loss of lives and property, everyone needs to be aware of the dangers of fire, especially during fire season as this winter comes to an end. Here are some end-of-season tips to stay fire safe:

- Always extinguish fires and safely dispose of hot ash, coal and cigarettes.
- Ensure that your electrical appliances are correctly wired.
- Don’t overload power points and switch off appliances when not in use.
- Make sure gas appliances are correctly installed.
- Keep the area around your home and business clear of flammable materials (dry bush, scrub etc…)
- Never leave an open fire unattended (braai, in the fireplace at home, garden refuse etc…)
- Always make sure that you are alert in the kitchen when cooking and don’t leave the stove unattended.
- Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan.
-  Clean the lint filter of your tumble dryer every time you use it.
- Take extra care when using heaters and electric blankets. Do not leave them on and unattended.
- Always work in an open, cleared area when working with power tools.
- Make sure your business fire safety plan is clear and that you have your fire extinguishers serviced regularly.
- Buy a small fire extinguisher from a reputable dealer to keep in your home – note the correct way to use it and ensure that it has not expired.

Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers in the event of a fire and medical emergency OR call the KSS 24/7 Control Room on 033 3305911 for ALL your emergency needs.

ONE NUMBER – 033 3305911 – KSS CAN HELP.

'On 31 August, our community will be gathering for the “Let’s Walk 5km for Sully” event — standing together in support of childhood cancer awareness.

Childhood cancer affects about 1 in every 500 children before the age of 15. Behind each number is a child, a family, and a story of courage. Sully and his family embody that courage every day, while continuing to give so much of themselves to those around them.

This weekend, we have the privilege of opening our campus so that friends, families, and neighbours can come together, walk side by side, and show our love and support.

Join us this Sunday!

Grace College School | 8–10am | Dogs on leads, prams, kids — everyone welcome.

Let’s walk in solidarity, let’s walk in hope, and let’s walk for Sully.' update from Grace College.

'Friends, please support and pray for my friends. The venue has changed to LIV Padel Hilton at Grace College.

Please purchase or bring your own navy shirts, caps and/or bucket hats, put your name on your items and drop it off in the basket at Hilton Quarry Spar Hilton Quarry Superspar. It will be setup by 12:30 today. You need to act quickly because we only have today and tomorrow. Your items will be branded. 

There are lovely navy blue shirts, caps and bucket hats at Jonsson Workwear or you can try Pick'n Pay clothing, PEP, Ackerman's, Jet etc.

https://rainbowsandsmiles-sa.org.za/event/run-for-a-reason-2025

Thank you to AnyLogos for your incredible support! If you wish to join Nix Down's Support group please message 074 967 2311.

Please share this far and wide! It's free!' shared family friend Camilla Eatwell.

As Matric learners navigate the high-pressure of their preliminary exams which start this week across the country, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is providing much-needed Mental Health support with a series of TikTok LIVE sessions every Thursday at 6pm. These sessions offer practical tips, expert insights, and a safe space for learners to talk about their Mental Health.

This week’s TikTok LIVE, on Thursday, 29 August at 6pm, is all about “How to Ask for Help” — because no one should face exam season alone. Learn how to speak up, who to reach out to, and why it’s okay to not be okay. This topic is about breaking the silence, reducing stigma, and giving Matrics the confidence and language to get the support they need during one of the most demanding times of their school career.

We’ll be focusing on:
Normalising Help-Seeking – reminding learners that they don’t need to struggle in silence because they feel embarrassed, ashamed, or afraid of being judged for reaching out. Let’s normalise asking for help and reminding our Matrics that it is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Providing Learners with Practical Skills - asking for help isn’t always easy. Many students don’t know who to approach, what to say, or how to explain their struggles. We will provide practical tips and simple phrases to make the process less scary, whether it’s asking a teacher for academic support, a parent for understanding, or a counsellor for emotional help.

Reducing Stress and Isolation - exams can make learners feel isolated, like they’re the only ones struggling. Reaching out can lower stress levels, improve coping, and even enhance performance by giving them tools to manage better.

Reaching Parents and Support Systems - helping them understand the struggles Matrics face in asking for help, and how to create safe, supportive spaces for learners to open up.

Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha, SADAG’s Project Manager of Education says, “Many learners worry that if they admit that they are struggling, people will think less of them. Others simply don’t know where to turn or what support is available. That’s why creating safe spaces, normalising conversations about Mental Health, and reminding learners that support is always available, are so important.”

For many young people, asking for help is not easy. Some worry about upsetting their parents or feel embarrassed if friends know they are struggling. Others just don’t know how to say they are not coping. Learning these skills — whether for studying, Stress, or emotions — gives learners the confidence to speak up, and helps parents, teachers, or friends to give the right support.

TikTok Thursdays are part of SADAG’s campaign to support Matrics during exam season. Each week’s LIVE looks at a key issue — from studying and managing Stress, to taking breaks and asking for help. SADAG also has an Online Matric Toolkit and shares daily tips and resources on social media to guide and encourage learners.

“Reaching out, whether to a teacher, a parent, a friend, a trusted adult or even a Counsellor at SADAG can make all the difference in managing Stress and staying focused. No one should feel like they have to go through this time alone,” says Roshni.

We encourage learners to join this session to learn practical ways to ask for help and take part in the conversation. We also invite parents and teachers to join as well, to learn how they can support learners and start important conversations about Mental Health.

Follow @sadag_official on TikTok to join the live discussions every Thursday at 6pm for #TikTokThursday, and see how asking for help can make a real difference.

Seeing clearly has never looked this good — or been this affordable! At John Meyer Optometrist, we make it easy to upgrade your eyewear without breaking the bank.

Here’s what’s waiting for you:
Single Vision Glasses – Only R1100 (stylish frame included!)
Bifocal Glasses – Just R2900 (frame included!)
Multifocal Glasses – From R2950 (frame included!)

Whether you’re refreshing your lenses, upgrading your frames, or coming in for an eye test — we’ve got you covered.

Find us: 3 Monzali Dr, Hilton Health Centre

WhatsApp: 076 050 5877

Call: 033 343 0881

Mendola has six taste fully decorated self catering cottages that each sleep four people in two separate bedrooms with queen size beds. The kitchens are equipped with fridge, stove, oven, microwave, toaster and kettle . The open plan lounge has TV with DSTV Channels and WiFi Access, all linen is supplied and cottages are serviced daily. Bathrooms have both a bath and separate shower with towels supplied.

There is a designated under cover parking bay with ample extra parking with in Mendola. There is a security guard that patrols in the evenings even though the entire property is fenced with guard at the main gate.

Rates are competitive and dependant on the season and the amount of nights required. We will happily negotiate a long term rate should you require. So if moving home or on a work contract that requires you to stay in our village for a month or more look no further than Mendola.

Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website:
www.mendola.co.za
Contact number:
079 287 1619

Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge | Pietermaritzburg: Sunday 17 August

Tayla Made! Defending her title in sublime fashion, Tayla Kavanagh dominated in a one-woman race in the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge on Sunday, 17 August.

This is the third time in a row that Kavanagh has cut the tape, running a fairly solitary 10km in Pietermaritzburg, having smashed her times run in previous years. The Highway athlete running in the colours of Hollywood Athletics Club crossed the line in an impressive time of 32.55, shaving off 77 seconds from her winning time last year, and bettering her 2023 time, which was 34.07.

‘It was a lovely morning out on the streets of PMB, I always thoroughly enjoy participating in the SPAR Women’s 10km leg here in Pietermaritzburg. I had a pleasant race and I’m really happy with how it went. The weather was warmer than it had been in the past few weeks, but it was still favourable conditions to run in.’

‘I was hoping to run a solid effort this morning. I didn’t have a specific time in mind, but I just wanted to execute a good race. I do some of my training in Maritzburg, so this race always feels like a home race for me! I also really relish the challenging hilly route and the community of women who come together to run this race.

This year, Kavanagh broke away from the pack early in the race, slowly stretching her lead from second placed Kenyan runner, Florence Nyaingiri who finished two and a half minutes behind Kavanagh, in 35.25.

‘We set off the race with a few of us running pretty strong together at the start, at around 2km’s is where the first inclines began and I know I really enjoy the hills and climbs so I would say just after the 2km marker I decided I would take the lead.’

Going through the 4.5km mark, a focused Kavanagh led by 45 seconds, clocking a time of 15.12 while Nyaingiri went through the checkpoint in a time of 15.57.

The 24 year old Durbanite is enjoying a phenomenal year: she won the KZN Athletics Female Road Runner of the Year the night before; she achieved her personal best at the recent Durban’s Totalsports Women’s Race run where she dipped under 32 minutes, and she finished fifth overall at the Durban SPAR Women’s Challenge with a 32.32 in June.

‘I ran my PB at the Totalsports race in Durban in a time of 31:53. I have been dipping under 33 minutes numerous times over the last few years and only recently just ran under 32 minutes once so far. I look forward to racing my club's race at the end of August, in the HollywoodBets Durban 10km.’

Running in her first-ever Maritzburg race, the visiting Kenyan athlete mentioned she truly enjoyed the experience. Based in Iten, an area renowned for its altitude training, Nyaingiri said, ‘It was a tough route and being so hot didn’t help, but I had a fantastic time running here and can’t wait to return next year to challenge for the top spot.’

In third place was Likeleli Majara, running for Nedbank ByGrace Running Club in Bloemfontein, in a time of 36.01.

A total of 3,696 participants took to the course around Alexandra Park, and the CBD in this Challenge, one of 8 hosted by SPAR around the country, and sixth sold-out race in the overall SPAR Challenge series. Two more events are still to take place in Gqerberha and Johannesburg.

At the prize giving, SPAR KZN gifted the race charity, the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa - Choc House Maritzburg with a cheque to the value of R25,000. R5 from each entry was donated to charity.

Results:
Overall
1 Tayla Kavanagh 32.55; 2 Florence Nyaingiri 35.25; 3 Likeleli Majara 36.01; 4 Bathobile Mkhize 36.41; 5 Malineo Mahloko 37.11; 6 Janie Grundling 37.38; 7 Makhosi Mhlongo 38.24; 8 Luzaan de Wit 39.00; 9 Leah Edwards 41.49; 10 Janene Carey 42.07

Junior
1 Leah Edwards 41.49; 2 Courtney van Wyngaard 43.16; 3 Hannah Sewlal 48.03

Senior
1 Tayla Kavanagh 32.55; 2 Florence Nyaingiri 35.25; 3 Likeleli Majara 36.01

40 - 49
1 Janie Grundling 37.38; 2 Makhosi Mhlongo 38.24; 3 Mabusi Makhunga 42.36

50 – 59
1 Janene Carey 42.07; 2 Shani Silver 42.15; 3 Tholakele Ngcobo 50.18

60 -69
1 Grace de Oliviera 46.51; 2 Phillipa Lycett 01:05.39; 3 Kathy Baxter 01:07.24

70 – 79
1 Patricia Fisher 57.07; 2 Thandiwe Mashimane 01:04.37; 3 Jeanette Eglington 01:08.15

Top image: Two Hilton Harriers runners earned podium positions in the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge that took place on Sunday, 17 August: Courtney van Wyngaard (Riverwood College learner) came second in the Junior category in a time of 43.16, and Phillippa Gordon Lycett came second in the 60-69 category.

Photo credit: Rogan Ward

The Animal Anti-Cruelty League Durban & PMB (AACL) has stood as a beacon of hope for vulnerable animals for decades – but without public support now, this vital organisation may be forced to close its doors.

For decades, this dedicated organisation has been on the frontlines of animal welfare – providing shelter for abandoned pets, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in need, prosecuting cases of cruelty, and facilitating essential veterinary care to underserved communities across the greater Durban area – including Inchanga, Hammersdale, Inanda, Chatsworth, Phoenix & Cato Ridge.

The AACL’s Inspectors travel hundreds of kilometres each month to rescue animals suffering from injury or disease, enable the sterilisation of cats and dogs to control overpopulation, and administer vaccinations and deworming treatments. These proactive interventions not only prevent needless suffering but also curb the growing problem of stray animals.

As one of South Africa’s longest-standing “no-kill” shelters, the AACL has given thousands of animals a second chance at life. Every dog and cat that passes through its gates receives food, medical care, training, and love – preparing them for adoption into safe, permanent homes.

With 130 cats and dogs currently in their care, the AACL’s team of just twenty dedicated staff is constantly on call. Their work extends far beyond feeding and sheltering animals—they also respond to all reports of abuse. Above all, their mission is to find loving homes for animals that have endured hardship, offering them a second chance at a happy life. Out in the community, AACL’s veterinary technicians provide vaccinations while educating pet owners on responsible care, helping to create a future where fewer animals suffer.

However, despite this unwavering commitment, the organisation is facing unprecedented financial strain. Rising costs, a surge in abandoned pets, and the broader economic challenges in South Africa have placed the AACL in jeopardy. With no government funding, they rely almost entirely on the generosity of the public to keep their vehicles on the road and their shelter open.

“The animals rely on us, and we are honoured to help prevent or treat their suffering,” says Dr Lawson Cairns, Chairman of AACL. “But tough economic times have hampered our efforts. We are reaching out to the public for support so we can continue this vital work.”

In many communities, the AACL inspector is the only source of veterinary assistance, offering affordable care that owners could not otherwise access. For some animals, these visits mean the difference between life and death.

“Supporting the Animal Anti-Cruelty League is not just about protecting animals — it's about standing up for compassion, responsibility, and the kind of society we want to be,” says Kingsley Holgate, explorer, humanitarian and author. “Every donation helps give a voice to the voiceless and a second chance to those who need it most.”

“The animals need the sanctuary offered by AACL,” adds Yvette Taylor of the Lawrence Anthony Earth Organization. “Not only do they alleviate animal suffering, they also educate. Caring for animals is foundational as humans – it’s what brings about a kinder world.”

How the public can help | Support can take many forms:

• Financial donations of any size
• Sponsoring the care of a specific animal
• Volunteering time or skills
• Donating food, blankets, or medical supplies
• Shopping or donating to the AACL Charity Shop, which sells household items and clothing to raise funds

Every contribution directly impacts the lives of animals in desperate need.

A call to action
For those who believe that kindness to animals reflects the best of our humanity, now is the time to act. The AACL Durban & PMB’s work is not just about rescuing animals – it’s about restoring dignity, health, and hope, one life at a time.

To learn more about how to help, visit the AACL Durban & PMB branch’s website, Facebook and Instagram pages, or contact your nearest branch. Your support could be the lifeline an animal is waiting for today.

Website: https://www.aacl.co.za/branches-durban-pietermaritzburg/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACLDurban

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aacl_dbn/

Photo by Val Adamson of Nomathembu Gumede.

The SANParks Honorary Rangers (SHR) have demonstrated how the legendary spirit of the Comrades Marathon can be harnessed to protect South Africa’s natural heritage. Through the Comrades Marathon Association’s AmaBeadiBeadi charity initiative, and with the incredible support of Race4Charity runners and donors, the SHR has raised vital funds that will go directly into projects safeguarding South Africa National Parks (SANParks).

An incredible amount of R1 588 165 was raised, most of which will be invested directly from the KwaZulu-Natal Region of the SHR into critical SANParks conservation, ranger support and anti-poaching initiatives in national parks across the country.

Funds raised by the SANParks Honorary Rangers are allocated to procuring or supporting priority conservation needs that have been identified by SANParks through a wish list system.

The funds raised from the 2025 Race4Charity campaign will be allocated as follows:
• Kruger National Park: Renovation and upgrade of anti-poaching facilities and kennelling for K9 anti-poaching dogs, and the training of two new dogs for K9 units. This will assist in strengthening anti-poaching measures in Kruger National Park.

• Mountain Zebra National Park: Procurement of wildlife monitoring, research and protection equipment, including 3 cheetah collars, 1 lion collar, and 3 camera traps.
• Richtersveld National Park: Installation of new security cameras to strengthen protection measures for endangered succulents, which are vulnerable to poaching.
• Table Mountain National Park: Assistance with the renovation and upgrade of dog kennels at the K9 unit.
• Project Embrace: Support for rangers and their families at the frontline of conservation through trauma and stress management programmes and life skills training.

Speaking on the value of the initiative, following the handover from the Comrades Marathon Association on Friday 22 August, Ian Catt Treasurer of the KwaZulu-Natal Region of SANParks Honorary Rangers and Chairman of the SHR Comrades organising committee, said, “The Comrades Marathon is not only a race of endurance, but is also a race of generosity in many ways. Every runner who chose to run for SHR, every person who donated, and the Comrades Marathon Association itself, have helped us take a significant step forward in protecting our wildlife and supporting our rangers and the onerous tasks of protecting our conservation area. These projects will have a direct and lasting impact on conservation.”

Looking ahead, 2026 will mark the 99th anniversary of the Comrades Marathon, a milestone that SHR is proud to be part of. “We are deeply grateful to the Comrades organisers for giving us this platform, to the athletes who carried our cause along the route, and to every runner and supporter who donated,” added Catt. “Together, we are ensuring that the parks, people, and wildlife of South Africa continue to thrive for generations to come.”

For more information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.sanparksvolunteers.org.

Image: As an official charity of the Comrades Association’s AmaBeadiBeadi charity drive, members of the SANParks Honorary Rangers, KwaZulu-Natal Region (l-r) Gavin Abel, John Gale and Brenda Huntley of the SANParks Honorary Rangers KZN Region received significant funds for conservation efforts in South Africa’s national parks.

'During the 3rd term, the Laddsworth cyclists have been busy with the Schools mountain bike league. They have raced at Maritzburg College, Waterfall Prep School in Hillcrest, and Umhlali Prep in Balito. The last race of the series is at Howick High School on 7 September.

The races involve laps through a school's grounds, with each school coming up with an interesting obstacles. Maritzburg College had a floating bridge, and Howick has some great burns and jumps to look forward to.

From the league, a Schools KZN team will be chosen where the pupils will race head to head with other kids from different provinces later this year. With so many participants, the racing has been exciting within each age group, with Laddsworth being extremely well represented throughout all the events. #AimHigh' updated Laddsworth Primary School.

Our Grade 10s had an unforgettable overnight field trip to Highmoor in the Kamberg, Drakensberg this week! From exploring dramatic mountain landscapes to studying human impact on the environment, learners brought their classroom Geography lessons to life.

A big thank you to our staff and learners for making this enriching experience such a success!

More about Grace College

Pre-season entries for next year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile are now open, with special rates on offer until the end of this month.

The 53rd edition of the world’s largest open water swimming event will take place from 7-8 February 2026 at the iconic Midmar Dam in KwaZulu-Natal, with organisers expecting between 12,000 and 14,000 entries over the fun-filled weekend.

Catering to all age groups and levels of ability, the event draws a range of swimmers each year, from wide-eyed newcomers to Olympic champions.

One such champion who has confirmed she’ll be back at Midmar Dam next February is open water superstar Sharon van Rouwendaal (Top image). The Dutch swimmer stormed to gold in the 10km marathon swim at the Paris Olympics last year before calling time on her remarkable career, which has also included Olympic gold at Rio 2016 and three open water world titles.

The aQuellé Midmar Mile captured Van Rouwendaal’s heart from the first time she swam – and won – the race in 2023.

"The Midmar Mile is more than just a race: it’s a celebration of open water swimming, community, and passion,” said Van Rouwendaal.

“There’s something truly special about it. It’s not just the race itself, but the people, the spirit, and the sense of belonging. Every time I come back, I feel the energy of a community that truly loves open water swimming. Midmar has a place in my heart, and that’s why I’ll always return. It feels like home."

That sense of community has seen swimmers returning to the aQuellé Midmar Mile every year without fail, with KZN stalwart Mike Pengelly having completed all 52 editions of the race.

Numerous swimmers will be targeting their 20th swims this year, to join an elite group of around 500 swimmers to have achieved that feat, while two swimmers could potentially reach their 50th swims this year.

In addition to the personal achievements, millions of rands are also raised each year for charitable causes, making the event even more meaningful.

Those looking to make the most of the discounted entry fees should head to midmarmile.com to enter before 31 August 2025.

We're excited to announce a new Kids' Chess Club! It's a fantastic way for children aged 6 to 12 (older children are welcome too) to learn a new skill, have fun, and make new friends in a social setting. The club will hold its first session on Saturday, August 30th, and will run weekly until November 22nd, with a new term set to open in January. All skill levels are welcome, from complete beginners to budding masters.

We are also looking for volunteers! If you're a chess enthusiast who would like to help out or share your knowledge, please get in touch!

For more information and to register, please contact Karine on 078 688 3985.

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 – 27 August 2025

Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm

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

Info: 082 331 7271

7:00 PM – Howick High School Band

The Howick High School band returns to the mythical hills of Hilton with a host of your favourite songs: From The Cranberries to Abba, from Sia to Adele, you’re guaranteed to have something to tap your foot to (Apologies to all the English teachers out there for ending the sentence with a preposition.)

7:40 PM – M4

When Pietermaritzburg soul and reggae artist Lotshiwe Tshabalala teams up with Howick multi-instrumentalist Andrew Versfeld and Pietermaritzburg’s own Adrian Raman, the result is a rich and vibrant blend of roots, blues, R&B, funk, and heartfelt melody.

Lotshiwe’s journey began in church choirs before she picked up the guitar at 19, leading to performances at markets, festivals, and events across KZN. She also curates festivals, performs with an all-female band, and is currently working on her debut EP.

Andrew Versfeld, a pianist, guitarist, and composer, has spent 15 years honing his craft – from busking beginnings and Drakensberg residencies to producing albums and film scores in his Howick studio. His style is warm, bluesy, and touched with jazz flair.

Hailing from Pietermaritzburg, Adrian Raman has been a dedicated musician since the age of 11. A true multi-instrumentalist, he masterfully switches between guitar, bass, and piano, creating a rich and full sound. His music is a captivating blend of soulful R&B, infectious funk, and powerful rock. This will be their first joint set at MiTH!

8:40 PM – Pretty & The Music (feat. Undivided Roots ZA)

“I believe the world is my playground, armed with words, creativity, hunger for new adventures and curiosity for new experiences, I’m headed out to play.”
– Pretty Olifant

Born in KwaMashu and raised in iMbali, Pretty Olifant was nurtured by a force of strong women to become a witty, unwavering, passionate and free-spirited soul. A social entrepreneur, brand manager, professional conference organiser, event manager, poet, vocalist and MC, Pretty owns a marketing communications agency and is also the founder of uMgungundlovu’s arts initiative Kwasuka Sukela.

Combining her love for music with her first love, poetry, she goes by the name Pretty & The Music. Delivering eclectic sounds zig-zagging across a number of genres, including African rhythm, soul, jazz, ancestral sounds, reggae, rhythm and blues, all with an undertone of poetry. She has shared her unique music at various venues and festivals across South Africa.

At MiTH, Pretty takes the stage alongside Undivided Roots ZA, a roots, rock, and reggae band for all occasions. The group was founded by the legendary Nstangu “Roots” Cele, an independent street musician from Edendale, Pietermaritzburg.

Undivided Roots ZA consists of seven members: Black Wadada on guitar, Revival Cele on bass, Heaven Cele on drums, Spear Cele on keyboard, Kingdom Cele on second keyboard, Rainbow Cele on percussion, and Judgement Cele on lead guitar.

The members, brothers and sisters bound by music, make their living by busking in and beyond Pietermaritzburg. Over the years, they have shared the stage with many gifted musicians, including Johnny Clegg, Gangs of Ballet, Prime Circle, Queen Ifrica, Watershed, Zahara, and Tony Rebel. Their repertoire spans old-school rock, blues, and jazz, infused with a heavy dose of roots reggae guaranteed to get your feet tapping.

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.

A treasured part of the KZN Midlands' live music heritage lies in its deep-rooted family connections — generations of music shared around dinner tables, passed down in harmonies, and shaped through years of collaboration and love.

Now imagine an evening where that heritage comes to life on stage.

Three of the Midlands' most beloved daughter-father duos — Jes and Brian Bedingfield, Rhiannon and Vince Reid, and Rebecca and Charles Webster — come together and mix things up to share the music that has shaped their lives and families. Add Michael Webster's powerhouse drumming, and you’re in for something truly special.

Expect a beautifully curated mix of genres, voices, and stories — a heartfelt celebration of legacy, talent, and the joy of making music together.

This is more than a concert. It’s a family gathering — Midlands style.
Don’t miss it. Really. This one’s for the memory books.

Venue: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm
Date: Friday, 22 August 2025
Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM for a 7:00 PM start
Tickets: R160

To book: WhatsApp 082 539 6763

💚 Proceeds to: Rhino Peak Challenge

The Democratic Alliance Mooi-uMngeni Constituency is firing up the pots for our Annual “Great Potjie Cook-Off” on Saturday, 25 October 2025 – and this year, we’ve teamed up with The Quarry Shopping Centre to make it even bigger and better!

Last year’s Cook-Off was an absolute hit – we raised much-needed funds for the DA, gave local businesses a chance to shine, and had the Hilton community laughing, eating, and dancing together.

This year, expect even more deliciousness and good vibes, including:

DJ & Live Music to keep the energy up

Wine Tasting for those with a refined palate (or just curious taste buds)

More Potjie Teams serving up an even bigger variety of mouth-watering dishes

Join the fun! We’ve got two ways to enter:

1. Individual Entry – Team of 2 | R250

2. Corporate Entry – Team of 4 | R1,000 (includes branding and business promo opportunities)

By joining in, you’re not just cooking up a storm – you’re helping the Democratic Alliance uMngeni raise vital funds for the upcoming municipal elections and keep our municipality proudly blue.

To receive an entry form, sign up or find out more:

• Cllr Kate Janse Van Rensburg – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | 082 716 0078
• Ian MacFarlane – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. | 082 933 3354

Let’s make this the tastiest, loudest, and most memorable Great Potjie Cook-Off yet!