Dear Supporters,

I trust this message finds you in good health and high spirits.

I am reaching out to you with a heartfelt appeal for support in our mission to raise funds for critical and life-changing medication called Kaftrio, essential for treating Cystic Fibrosis. My name is Amy Robertson; I am 19 years old and suffer from Cystic Fibrosis, along with Cystic Fibrosis-related Diabetes. Let me share my story.

Over the past 3 to 4 years, my health has declined rapidly. My lung function is currently at 50%, and my doctors have expressed deep concern, advising a move to the UK where I can access this transformative medication. While Kaftrio isn't a cure, it's as close as it gets to making Cystic Fibrosis a livable condition.

My battle with Cystic Fibrosis has led to numerous hospital admissions, lasting up to three weeks, continuous oxygen dependency for approximately six months, and months of being bed-bound. Recent tests have indicated that the situation won't improve; in fact, with each new infection, more damage is done to my lungs. Cystic Fibrosis unfortunately impacts the entire body.

I dream daily of experiencing life without the constant shadow of hospital visits, pain, and exhaustion. I yearn to work and be out in nature, capturing the world through my lens. Cystic Fibrosis, however, poses significant challenges. Birthdays are spent in hospital, and special events are overshadowed by health concerns. While my peers were enjoying nights out, I was learning to manage my medication and medical procedures.

Health is a fundamental aspect of our lives, and I refuse to accept a life limited by Cystic Fibrosis. Your contribution, big or small, can make a significant impact in helping me raise the required funds to apply for my Ancestral Visa for the United Kingdom, granting me access to Kaftrio.

Here's how you can help:
Make a Donation: Your generous contribution will go a long way in supporting my cause.
Spread the Word: Share my story with friends, family, and colleagues. Your voice can inspire others to join our mission.
Volunteer: If you have time and skills to offer, we welcome volunteers to assist in organizing fundraising activities.
Corporate Sponsorship: If you represent a company, consider partnering with me as a corporate sponsor. Your support can make a substantial difference and showcase your commitment to social responsibility.

 

To learn more about my journey and Cystic Fibrosis, please visit my Instagram page @Just_Breath_Cystic_Fibrosis, Facebook @AmyBreath, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Every contribution, no matter how small, brings me one step closer to improving my health. Your support means the world to me and my family. We are deeply grateful for your compassion and generosity.

Much Love,

Amy Breathe Robertson

Aaaah, sorry this event has been postponed due to a bad weather forecast. Look out for LAWNJAM Summer Edition.

Get ready to celebrate the arrival of Spring in style at "Lawnjam: Spring Edition"! Join us on the lush, picturesque lawns of The Knoll historic Guest Farm for a day of unforgettable music and sports action on the 14th of October at noon. We've lined up an incredible musical showcase featuring two sensational KZN acts that will have you grooving all day long.

- First up, we're thrilled to present Hilton's very own vocal-acoustic duo, Blackbird, with the enchanting Tanya Nicolson and the talented Charles Webster. Their harmonious melodies will serenade your senses and set the perfect springtime mood.

- Adding to the magic, our headline act is chart-busting Serrotone, a dynamic trio from Durban, including former Spoonfeedas members Peter Guthrie, James Robertson, and their acclaimed drummer, Billy Kruger. Their electrifying performance is not to be missed! 

- But that's not all! After the musical extravaganza, stick around to catch the live World Cup quarterfinal rugby action on a big screen, creating the ultimate entertainment combo.

Lawnjam: Spring Edition boasts a cash bar where you can quench your thirst with your favourite beverages, and delicious pizzas will be available for purchase. Feel free to bring your own snacks and picnic blankets for a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Gates open at 12:00 PM, and the music kicks off at 12:30 PM, lasting until 4:30 PM, guaranteeing a fantastic day filled with music, sports, and the joys of spring. Don't miss out on this incredible day of fun and entertainment! Tickets are available for just R160.

Grab yours today through Webtickets https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1533684764 or pay conveniently in cash at the gate.

Join us at The Knoll for "Lawnjam: Spring Edition" and make memories - let's celebrate Spring together in style!

MiTH 11 October 2023

INFO: 082 331 7271

ENTRANCE: R50.00 - Cash or Zapper at the Door

VENUE: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm


9pm: Ilan Lax and Band

Some would call Ilan Lax a stalwart of the Pietermaritzburg live music scene. Ilan is grateful to be able to work together with a group of well-known and talented musician friends comprising: Chris Smith (a maestro on guitar and keyboard), Roly Struckmeyer (bass), Paddy Austin (drums) (together forming a solid and exciting rhythm section) and Bernard Kisbey-Green (saxophone).

This set will focus on a cross-section of Ilan’s original collection of simple, evocative songs exploring a range of themes and styles reflecting his life experience as an active citizen, husband, parent, and human. The songs manifest Ilan’s wide range of influences from folk, blues, jazz, rock, and world music, reflecting a broad palette of musical tastes.

The set is a warm and expressive reflection of the facets of Ilan’s song-writing, complimented by the superb musicianship of this group of skilled and talented friends. You will not be disappointed!



8pm: The Staniland Band

Ron Gevers (Cajón, drums and vocals), Muzi Kubheka (Alto and Tenor Saxophone) and John Goodall (vocals, guitar, blues harp, banjo).

Formed in 2017, The Staniland Band (previously Jorongo) is a proudly amateur outfit with blues roots that plays original songs with a South African cadence, as well as new banjo music sounds, and folk-flavoured covers.

Ron Gevers, who features on cajón, drums, and vocals, has accompanied a number of musical outfits, such as The Hairy Legged Lentil Eaters at Splashy Fen. He still lends his musical talents to various bands to this day.

John Goodall, who brings some vocals, guitar, blues harp, and banjo to the mix, has composed a fair number of folk and blues songs. He had been a solo artist playing in music venues in Eshowe, Zululand, and Pietermaritzburg before being invited to join The Gloucester Blues Project (of Pietermaritzburg). The band played for over 10 years chiefly in KZN, including Splashy Fen, and Blues Train, and at Botswana gigs before disbanding.

Muzi Kubheka, who plays alto and tenor saxophone, joined the Staniland Band in 2022. His saxophone playing has filled out and brought a new depth and dimension to the Staniland repertoire.

The Staniland Band has played primarily in and around Pietermaritzburg – sometimes joined by other musicians. The band has played at Post Postino, MiTH, local coffee shops, and supper venues, and recently, at Music in the Mountains, in the Champagne Valley.



7pm: Geoffrey Diver

Geoffrey Diver is a musician and soundscape artist from Johannesburg who draws on a wide variety of influences to create compelling original music that traverses a wide range of genres, from psychedelic folk, desert blues, and prog rock, to ambient, drone, and dream pop. Informed by his studies in theatre and ethnomusicology, Diver’s layered, texture-driven sound is moody and emotive, and often stirs something deep in the minds of his listeners.



ABOUT MiTH: Arguably the KZN Midlands’ best-loved music venue, Music in The Hills (MiTH) is an opportunity for beginners, professionals, and passionate music fans to share the joy of music at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm. Visit www.mith.co.za for more details and directions. Musicians can contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for slots.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: MiTH takes place every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Knoll Drive, Hilton. Doors open at 6pm and the music will kick off at 7pm. Entrance is R50 at the door. Food and soft drinks are available for sale. A cash bar is available.

DIRECTIONS TO MiTH: Take the N3 to Hilton, take the Hilton turnoff and go South into the Village (away from Hilton College). Travel 5,2km along Hilton Avenue (past two sets of traffic lights and Crossways Pub) and keep going straight as Hilton Avenue turns into Dennis Shepstone Drive. At the 5,2km mark, Knoll Drive will be on your right – the entrance to MiTH is the *second* entrance on your left into The Knoll Historic Guest Farm.

Image credit: Namaste Photography KZN

Dream of spending your day with horses?

 

BSET Academy has been providing training to launch equine healing careers since 2008. Learn through a priceless, practical experience in a real-life hands-on working environment. The academy provides top facilities with supportive, knowledgeable, and experienced trainers. Gain confidence in yourself, your skills, and your future.

 

Based in KZN, in the beautiful countryside offering an adventure of a lifetime! BSET Academy is in the picturesque Karkloof, Howick area which means amazing hacking. We have an enormous grass arena, American style barn and great facilities. We are close to airports, restaurants, shops, beaches, wildlife, and a wide variety of other entertainment. A quick weekend away can be enjoyed at Durban beach or in the Underberg mountains, international students welcome!

 

You will live on campus and share a fully furnished house with individual bedrooms, shared bathrooms with communal living space and kitchen. Guaranteed opportunity for making memories and lifelong friendships.

 

A cooked breakfast during the week and self-catering facilities.

 

Washing, laundry and daily house keeping is taken care of for you by our helpful team.

 

Enjoy a cool swim in the pool after a long day and enjoy the sunset!

 

Applications are open for 2024.

 

More about BSET Academy

Did you know that October 1st marks the beginning of Walk Your Dog Week? It's the perfect time to celebrate our furry companions and promote their health and happiness through daily walks. 

Here are some fantastic reasons why you should grab that leash and hit the pavement with your four-legged friend:

- Helps fight dog obesity!
-Improves cardiovascular health
-Reduces insulin resistance
-Helps prevent osteoarthritis
-Stress reliever for both you and your furbaby!
-Provides both mental and physical stimulation, resulting in better behaviour than bored dogs

Most dogs require about 30minutes of exercise per day to stay healthy! It's a great way to get into a routine for both you and your furbaby!

Splitz is a wonderful Labrador cross, who was surrendered to the SPCA as the owners could not afford to look after him. He is approximately 1 year old and is very good with children and other dogs.

He deserves a loving home!

Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to set up an adoptions appointment.

Film-lovers in Durban are in for a treat in October during the European Film Festival which runs from 12-22 October. The festival has extended its reach beyond its principal cinema screenings in Johannesburg and Cape Town to include a special programme at Ster-Kinekor Gateway in Durban.

As co-director of the festival Magdalene Reddy explains: “Five of the most recent films this year will only show in cinemas: ANATOMY OF A FALL, GOODBYE JULIA , THE OLD OAK, THE TEACHERS LOUNGE, and MAVKA – THE FOREST SONG. Because they will not be available in the festival’s free countrywide online streaming programme we have scheduled a special showing for these five films for Durban, as well as in Johannesburg and Cape Town of course. If extending the festival footprint to Durban in this way draws significant public interest perhaps this is something the festival can revisit again for future events.”

More about the Films:

The French film ANATOMY OF A FALL, astonishingly well-written and directed by Justine Triet, won the top prize at Cannes, the Palm d’Or. Starring Sandra Huller, this part thorny family story, part whodunit, part courtroom drama, puts marital power dynamics under the microscope. As Time Out magazine says; ‘This is a thriller of real psychological, intellectual and emotional depth.’

Veteran UK filmmaker Ken Loach’s latest work THE OLD OAK is an incisive social drama about an English village where there is anger, resentment and a lack of hope since the closing of the local mine. What more could go wrong for the world-weary townsfolk? That’s when the Syrian refugees move in….! A timely story about modern Britain, immigration, xenophobia, and the need for compassion and understanding.

GOODBYE JULIA is a six-country coproduction (Sudan, Egypt, Germany, France, Sweden and Saudi-Arabia) and winner of the prestigious Prix de la Liberté (Freedom Award) at the Cannes Film Festival. Directed by Mohamed Kordofani, GOODBYE JULIA tells the story a friendship between two women who represent the complicated relationship and differences between northern and southern Sudanese communities at a time of intense upheaval and transition in that country.

The smallest of decisions has seismic repercussions in THE TEACHERS’ LOUNGE. When a young teacher decides to investigate theft at her school things escalate dramatically, not how she intends. Crackling with tension, İlker Çatak’s film is about a lot of things — conformity, rebellion, racism, optics, and intergenerational mistrust. THE TEACHERS’ LOUNGE swept up the top prizes at this year’s German Film Awards: Best Film, Best Direction, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay, and has just been selected as Germany’s submission for next year’s Oscars.

Carving a path to peace and a future beyond war, MAVKA – THE FOREST SONG (top image), by directors Oleh Malamuzh and Oleksandra Ruban, is a family animation with key intrinsic messages, and the highest-grossing Ukrainian film ever. Poignant and uplifting, this gloriously animated story touches on themes of love, trust, and the coexistence of two worlds: people and forest creatures. And the transformative power of music!


Visit www.eurofilmfest.co.za for film synopses, trailers, and screening schedules.

The European Film Festival 2023 is a partnership project of the European Union National Institutes for Culture (EUNIC), the Delegation of the European Union to South Africa and the participating European embassies of Belgium, Bulgaria, The Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Italy, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Switzerland and Ukraine; as well as the cultural agencies of British Council, Camoes Institute of Portugal, Diplomatic Representation of Flanders, French Institute in South Africa, Goethe-Institut and Italian Cultural Institute.

The festival is organised in cooperation with Cineuropa, supported by Ster Kinekor, The Labia and coordinated by Creative WorkZone.

Supplied.

WWF South Africa is proud to announce its latest Believe in Better campaign, an inspiring call to action designed to ignite hope for a brighter, more sustainable future in our cherished nation. As South Africa approaches the 2024 elections, this campaign serves as a powerful reminder of our shared national vision—to heal the wounds of the past and pave the way for a brighter, more promising future for our country.

WWF South Africa wishes to inspire its compatriots to be heartened by its stories of success and embrace hope rather than despair. It wants everyone to Believe in Better, three words that serve as a balm against the constant barrage of negativity we face from all directions and an uplifting reminder of the value in believing in something good.

At the heart of WWF's mission lies the protection of our invaluable natural heritage and the ambition to build a future in which we all live in harmony with nature. The multimedia campaign, #BelieveInBetter, not only celebrates some of WWF's major conservation milestones but also illustrates the positive leaps that are possible when people from different walks of life come together.

Restoring Springs, Reviving Communities

WWF's partnerships have yielded a wide range of accomplishments to safeguard the natural systems vital for clean drinking water, food production, fisheries, and ecosystem health. Despite challenges such as a growing population, aging infrastructure, and increasing industrial demands that threaten our ecosystems, WWF tirelessly works to protect our land, wildlife, and vital water sources.

One noteworthy initiative is the focus on natural springs in the Drakensberg areas of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, where communities struggle to access clean water due to inadequate municipal infrastructure and the impact of invasive alien trees. By bringing together a range of donors and working with communities and partners, WWF has helped secure 44 natural springs in the grasslands of the Eastern Cape and has expanded this work to the Enkangala Drakensberg Water Source Area.

In another part of the country—the Kogelberg region of the Western Cape—WWF has built up a deep relationship with small-scale fishers over many years. One aspect of this work has been to upskill young people in the community as Marine Coastal and Community Monitors, enabling some to move on to other nature-based job opportunities.

On the wildlife front, WWF’s Black Rhino Range Expansion Project is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, having worked tirelessly over the last two decades to grow the populations of this critically endangered species in partnership with landowners and communities. WWF’s Land and Biodiversity program have also added extensively to the country’s network of national parks and other protected areas.

These are all examples of WWF’s work that tie in with the Believe in Better campaign, encapsulating the spirit of hope and collaboration that defines WWF’s dedication to a sustainable tomorrow. While it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, behind the daunting troubles that face the environment, the economy, and our society, there is a beacon of hope that shines brightly. That’s the power of unity, collective action, and positive change.

Dr. Morné du Plessis, CEO of WWF South Africa, comments: "Environmentalists are, by their very nature, agents of hope. In our work, we have plenty of evidence that hope, supported by action, is far more powerful than the strangely seductive slide into despair. Just as we need to remember how far we’ve come as a society; we need reminding of just how exceptional South Africa’s natural and social endowments are. We need to keep faith in each other and appreciate that together we can transform our vision of a more sustainable future into a reality."

Are you ready to embark on an exciting educational adventure for your little one? Look no further!

At Hilton Gardens Children's Academy, we're thrilled to announce that enrollment for our preschool program is still open for 2024.

Why choose HGCA for your child's early education journey?

We nurture not just young minds but also their hearts and creativity.

Through a wonderful blend of CAPS and Montessori education, we meet the needs of our children across all planes of their development.

Our dedicated team of teachers is passionate about early childhood education. With many years experience and qualifications behind them, this is more than just a job - its a joyous lifestyle.

Hands-on activities, arts, and exploration are at the heart of our curriculum. With many sensory focused work, our children have their day filled with purposeful, stimulating work. Cultivating a love for learning, not only at school but also for life!

Our preschool provides a secure and welcoming space for your child to thrive. With spacious classroom prepared environments and big outdoor playground facilities.

Enroll your child today and be a part of a caring community that supports growth, learning, and laughter, so don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity.

To learn more or enroll your child.

Let's make the preschool years memorable and full of discovery!

Local business, TasteBox, has been offering online orders and home deliveries of their meal kits to customers around Hilton, Howick and PMB for almost three years now. Now they have launched an exciting new option for those who prefer to buy a meal kit as and when they need it. TasteBox now have their Meal Kits of the Day on shelf in our wonderful local Hilton Quarry Spar. Every day, you can find new meals on the shelf – always a vegetarian option as well as a meat option. This is a perfect solution for anyone rushing to the shops after work to grab something for supper – TasteBox do all the thinking, shopping & chopping for you – you just follow the simple recipe card attached to the meal kit and supper is sorted. To top it off, you know that you are getting a lovely, healthy dietician-designed meal to end your day. To find out more about Steph and TasteBox, go to www.tastebox.co.za

 

With 355 animals currently in their sanctuary, and with an impressive 164 998 animals, rescued over their 43 years in existence providing a life-giving service to the country’s wildlife, the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) calls on South Africans to join in commemorating Word Animal Day on Wednesday, 4 October, and appeals for financial support for the astonishing work they do.

“The theme for World Animal Day 2023 is “Great or Small, Love Them All”,” explains Clint Halkett-Siddall, Operations Director of CROW. ‘This is exactly what we do –we take in all manner of wildlife that have been injured, displaced, or abandoned, nurse them back to health, rehabilitate them, and release them back into their natural habitats. We love them all!”

“Our challenge is now to galvanize some serious financial support to enable us to continue to do this important work.”

CROW was adversely affected by COVID, which resulted in the loss of two years of international volunteer income – which contributed to a sizeable portion of their running costs. This together with the repercussions of the floods and riots, and increased overheads especially on animal feed and fuel, means that the centre has almost depleted its financial reserves.

“We are appealing for a renewed burst of financial support from individuals and companies, to enable us to keep our doors open and help the 3000-4000 indigenous wild animals that we care for each year. Without this support these animals will be left without assistance, with no chance of being nursed back to health, and released back into the wild,” says Halkett-Siddall.

CROW is Durban’s only registered and fully permitted wildlife rehabilitation centre providing indigenous wildlife with a second chance at a free, safe, and sustainable life in the wild. They also work with Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) Terrestrial and Marine species.

The Centre works with all indigenous mammal species, reptile species, and bird species. Some of the animals currently on property include TOPs Nile crocodile, blue duiker, and Blesbok, as well as grey duiker, genet, scrub hare, rock hyrax, banded mongoose, water mongoose, spotted eagle owl, wood owl, spurwing goose, Egyptian geese, egret, terrapin, garden variety birds, bush baby, vervet monkeys, leopard tortoise, eastern hinge tortoise, labots tortoise and specs tortoise.

“Due to financial constraints, we have had to cease after-hours services and if funding does not improve we will have to put on hold on rescues and collections,” he explains. ‘We now also have to limit the intake of Egyptian Geese and vervet monkeys which are robust urban dwellers but very expensive to feed.”

CROW gets no government funding and relies solely on public support. “We are appealing to people who care about wildlife and our environment to assist us by donating to Hope for Our Wildlife – CROW’s Emergency Appeal. Any donation in any form is most welcome to keep our doors open to animals in need.”

Donations can be made from the CROW website or using one of the many options to support listed there: https://crowkzn.co.za/donate/

 

Top image: Animal keeper Thobeka Mpangele feeds a troop of mongooses at CROW. This was one of three mongoose troops formed from orphaned pups last summer. They have overwintered at CROW and now that their release site has had its first good summer rains this troop will be released at the end of October.

Image below: Zoe Dougall, a nurse at the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) gives this 2-month old Blue Duiker a feed. This little one was found abandoned and brought in by the Kloof and Highway SPCA. This duiker will call CROW home for at least another seven months. CROW provides a vital service by taking in wildlife that has been injured, displaced, or abandoned, nursing them back to health, rehabilitating them, and releasing them back into their natural habitats.

Photo credit: Val Adamson

Supplied.

 

 

 

Providing the soundtrack to our TASTING EVENT: WAGYU BEEF CHEESE BURGERS with live music from Rhiannon Reid is the popular Rhiannon Reid Music duo.

Rhiannon and Vince are a father-daughter duo from Howick. They've been playing together since Rhiannon was a teenager starting out on the MiTH (Music In The Hills) stage. Rhiannon learned guitar in school and was involved in plays, choir and the Howick High jazz band. Vince plays the piano, harmonica, box drum and penny whistle, giving the duo a wide range of sounds and genres. Their music ranges from folk and pop to Irish and country, with a hint of jazz and rock.

https://www.facebook.com/rhiannonreidmusic/videos

Sunday 8 October at La Rose Golf Driving Range venue, which has a great spacious thatch indoor venue in case of rain or beautiful outdoor patio and gardens if its sunny. Food available from 11:00 - 13:30 and live music on at 11:45 - 12:20 and 12:45 - 13:20.

Tickets are only available pre-sale from JP on Whatsapp 076 098 9840 during office hours, there will be none available at the door on the day. Cost is R150 and includes a big 180g Wagyu Beef Cheeseburger and the live entertainment or if you really want to treat yourself R280 for a Wagyu Philly Cheese Steak roll made from prime cut Wagyu rump and skirt steak.

There will be a cash bar for beer, wine and soft drinks.

Book now, there are only 20 x burgers and 4 x steak rolls left...

'Thank you to all the parents for the wonderful support and a huge thank you to Build it Hilton Village for supplying the wheelbarrows used for the parent's races.' shared Laddsworth Primary School after a successful Junior Primary Inter-House Athletics morning. 

Bushveld Bees are specialists in ethical bee removals in Kwazulu-Natal, as registered with the department of Agriculture, The South African Bee Industry Organization and The KZN Bee Farmer’s Association.

Draw on the expertise of certified beekeepers who have trained to work at heights and deal with aggressive bees, even in difficult or restricted areas.

After removal, the bees are relocated to safe bee-friendly apiaries until a new location can be found where the bees will prosper.

We have personal liability cover to ensure you are covered during all bee removals.

Bee removals should only be done by professionally trained beekeepers as bees are dangerous and will become aggressive during a removal. Contact 079 505 4748.

Can you believe it’s already the end of September?!

 

This means that Summer and the end of the year are fast approaching and nothing says end of year like a party!

 

La Popote is taking bookings for year end functions and the dates are filling up quickly.

 

Should you like to book a function with us, please get in touch soon. We are proud to say we cater your event to suit your group and budget by curating menus and

experiences to suit the individual.

The Knoll farm is now also licensed, which means we can offer you a cash bar service for your event should that be required.

 

We look forward to hosting you soon, in Hilton, KZN.